[ The Possessive CEO ]

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[ 1 SYNOPSIS ]
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Synopsis
Marsh Lahm is a hard working girl. She works nonstop to support her younger brother. But her
life turns up side down when a hot, rude, brooding man walks inside her life. A hot, rude,
brooding, scary, handsome man. She's not an easy girl but why does they always ended up in
the bed? Both shouting and moaning.
Kalev Stanislaki, half-American, half-Filipino citizen. He's cold hearted, yes. But why does every
time he's looking at Marsh the coldness inside his heart is melting and was exchanged by fire.
The fire inside his body wants to escape and take Marsh Lahm's body in more ways than one.
When he met her, he's sure for himself he wanted her. That includes marking her as his
possession and lot and lot of sex.

[ 2 PROLOGUE ]
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Prologue
"I know you want me too, Marsh." He said while kissing my jawline. Hindi ko makilala ang boses
niya siguro dahil sa dami ng alak na nainom ko. All I want is to shut him up and kiss him
senselessly. So I did. Nilabanan ko ang halik niya. He inserted his tongue in my mouth and I
welcomed him. I kissed him back in full force as our tongue meets. Nararamdaman ko din ang
pagkalat ng kamay niya sa katawan ko. I can feel his one hand caressing my valley and the
other is placed on my ass. Kahit may suot akong damit ramdam ko ang init ng kamay niya.
"P-please." I mumbled ng humiwalay ang labi niya sa labi ko. "Please what my little kitten." He
asked playfully. I can see him smirking. "I-I want more." I said not thinking what will happen next.
"Don't worry baby girl, I will give you more than you expect." Sabi niya at isinandal niya ako sa
pader. His hands lowered to my breast, gently massaging as he teased my lower lip with his
teeth. My mind started to shout that this is wrong.  So I started to protest but he deepened the
kiss. The thought spiraled away. Sinimulan na niyang hubarin ang damit ko leaving my
undergarments behind. He picked me up with his arms and sank me into the mattress.
Pumwesto siya sa itaas ko.
"I've been waiting for this day to come." His voices was rugged and husky. His hands caressed
me, stroking without hurry until I'm fully naked infront of him. His mouth wandered to my throat,
to my neck, and to my two valleys. I moaned.
"Ohh..." I said and bite my lips. He worked my nipple using his thumb and kiss over the curve of
my breast. I moaned one more time. I feel the heat between my thighs. These sensations were
dim kaya hindi ko gaano makita ang mukha ng lalaking katalik ko. Bumaba ang halik niya sa
puson ko hanggang sa kaharap na niya ang pagkababae ko. "So beautiful." I heard him said.
"So fucking beautiful." I screamed when he touches my sex part. He brushes one of his fingers
on my thighs. "Ahh...ohhhh." I moaned at humawak sa unan to give support. And then he dived
down at naramdaman ko na may malambot na tumama sa pagkababae ko. It was his tongue!
I tangled my fingers into his hair at mas lalong idinikit ang pagkababae ko sa dila niya. He's
eating me using his wicked tongue. "Ahhh... ooohh. Oohhhh." Hello O! I never thought a man
could touch me intensely like these.
"I fucking wanted you for so long, Marsh." He said pero hindi ko yun pinansin ng magsimula na
akong makaramdam ng iba. "N-naiihi ako. Oohh." I said pero patuloy pa din siya sa ginagawa
niya. "Let it out baby. Don't hold back." And so I did. "Your first orgasm." He said but I'm too
occupied para bigyan siya ng pansin. Punong-puno na din ako ng pawis.
"We're still not finished, babe." And right there, he inserted one finger inside me. "Ahhh...ohhh." I
said at tiningnan ang ginagawa niya. I saw him looking at me too. Nang magtama ang paningin
naming dalawa, I saw his wicked smile. "Look at me while I finger fuck you baby." My breath
quickened and my mouth grew hungry. "Ahh...f-faster." I'm out of words. "Damn." He hissed.
"Fuck fuck fuck. I won't get tired looking at your wet pussy. Can you handle the real deal baby?"
He withdrew his fingers inside me. I wanted to protest but he started to undress infront of me.
Hanggang sa matira na lang ang boxer short niya. He pulled it down and his sex sprang into life.
My eyes widened. It's long and big and...I'm out of words to describe how wonderful he is. Don't
worry it will fit." Pumwesto siya sa itaas ko at ginawaran ako ng isang halik. I automatically
wrapped my legs around him as he entered me. "Ohh...it...hurts. S-stop." I said. Hindi ko alam
na ganito pala kasakit kung unang beses mo pa lang. "I'm sorry baby. I forgot. Don't worry hindi
muna ako gagalaw." He said. His hand lay down on my stomach. Giving me light kisses on my
lips and just like that the pain subsided and easily exchanged by pleasure.
"You can move now." I said shyly and looks away. "Look at me." He said with full of power agad
naman akong tumingin sa kanya. His aqua blue eyes is now burning with desires. "I want you to
look at me while I'm fucking you baby. Don't look away." And I opened for him ready to receive
his thrust. I cried out, but the sound muffled inside my mouth. I only knew I wanted him.
***

[ 3 CHAPTERI ]
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Chapter I: The Invitation

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
     "Pretty please my lovely cousin?" Sabi ni Stacey habang abala naman ako sa paglilinis ng
baso. She's my cousin and she owns the coffee shop that I'm working at. Mabuti na lang at kahit
papaano tinanggap niya ako kahit high school graduate lang ako. So basically she's my boss.
Maraming nagsasabing natanggap lang ako sa trabaho dahil pinsan ko siya but she tells me
every time that I got hired because I'm hard working enough to work in her coffee shop. And I
badly need one.
She has a pretty face, round brown eyes. Matangos din ang ilong niya and she has pink
kissable lips. Kaya lahat ng lalaki napapatingin sa kanya. Far different from me. She's wearing a
yellow dress that compliments her white skin.
"Marshhhh." She said in a singsong voice.
"Minsan lang ako ikakasal. And I want you to be there. Bibigyan naman kita ng day off
makapunta ka lang sa kasal ko." Tumingin ako sa kanya at ngumiti ng tipid.
"Alam mo naman kung bakit hindi ako makakapunta diba? I'm working nonstop. Hindi ako
puwedeng magpahinga at walang magaalaga kay Marco." I said. Sino naman ang ayaw
umattend sa isang kasal? Kahit gustuhin ko man wala din akong magagawa. I'm working at her
coffee shop at day light at isang waitress sa bar kapag gabi. 
"Isama mo si Marco. Besides he's my cousin too." Napailing na lang ako. She's persistent.
Really persistent.
"Alam mo naman ang kalagayan ni Marco." Mahina kong saad. Sadness is knocking into my
heart ng maalala ko ang bunso kong kapatid pero agad nawala yun ng maalala ko din ang
matamis niyang ngiti. I smiled from that thought.
"Sige. Makakaasa kang pupunta ako sa kasal mo." I said. Bigla niya akong niyakap habang may
ngiting tagumpay. "Love youuuu cousin. Sa La Casa Dela Lorsiendel gaganapin ang kasal
namin ni Kelvin." Happiness is visible in her voice at natutuwa ako para sakanya dahil sa wakas
ikakasal din siya sa pinakamamahal niyang lalaki. Ako kaya? Agad kong umiling at hindi
binigyan ng pansin ang nasa isip ko. Marco is with me. Alive and kicking. And he's my
happiness. 
"Pero wala akong susuotin." Bigla ko na lang naisip. "Ano ka ba naman Marsh of course ako ng
bahala doon. And by the way, beach wedding yun and we'll stay there for 3 days. So pack your
things later paguwi mo and susunduin kita bukas. Yey sounds like a plan." She said while
clasping her hands and smiling like a retarded person. Ganito ba talaga kapag malapit ng
ikasal? 
"Stace—." Hindi ko na naituloy ang sasabihin ko ng kumaway siya sa akin.
"Bye bye cousin. See you tomorrow." At tuloyang lumabas ng kusina ng coffee shop leaving me
behind. I sighed. Tumingin ako sa relo kong pinagiwanan na ng panahon. Shoot! It's already
5:30 in the afternoon . Kailangan ko ng pumasok sa isa ko pang trabaho.
"TABLE number 2 Marsh. Bilisan mo at baka makita ka ni maldita." Sabi sa akin ni Janice. I'm 5
minutes late at agad kong sinuot ang uniporme ko at naglagay ng apron. Maldita ang tawag nila
sa masungit na manager namin na parang laging menopause. Tinaas ko ang buhok ko at agad
kinuha ang isang tray na may lamang isang bucket ng beer. I mouthed thank you kay Janice. I
considered her as my friend here dahil halos kami lang naman ang naguusap dito. I'm working
at Topless Bar. Mabuti na lang mabait ang boss ko dito, though hindi ko pa siya nakikita at wala
akong balak makita siya. Most of the employees here says the owner of these bar is cruel and
scary. Hindi naman siya monster diba? I don't know his identity. His face or even his name. For
me, mabait siya. Accepting high school graduates just like myself. 
"Here's your order, Sir." I said placing the bucket of beer on their table. Tatlo silang lalaki na
nakaupo sa sofa at may dalawang babae na halos pinagkaitan ng tela ang suot. Yung isang
babae nakaupo sa lap ng lalaking may kulay abo ang buhok at yung isa naman ay nakaakbay
sa isang pang babae. Napailing na lang ako dahil sanay na ako sa nakikita ko. I've been
working here for 2 months already at nung unang araw ko dito halos bumaliktad ang sikmura ko
sa nakikita ko. All people here is liberated. 
"Cash or credit card, Sir?" I said asking for the bill. May isang lalaking tumingin sa akin. Eyeing
me like I'm a delicious food in a platter. Oh okay. "How much for a night?" One of the guy said.
Siya lang yung lalaking walang kasamang babae. He have a big arms with a flabby chest. Bigla
akong kinabahan.
"P-pardon?" I said. My voice was tired. At halos bulong na lang ang nasabi ko.
"Listen bitch. Don't get me angry." He said at tumayo. Lumakad palapit sa akin. I stepped
backward.
"I—I'll get the m-manager." I said at tatalikod na sana ng hawakan niya bigla ang balikat ko. I
screamed. May ibang tao ang napatingin sa gawi ko pero wala man lang may kusang loob na
tumulong.
"The fuck you will. You ain't leaving here till I get my rocks off, slut."
"Yeah," sabi nung may abo ang buhok. "Me too. Slut."
"Whore, why don't you just play with us?" Sabi nung isang lalaki and the two girls giggled.
"No, Sir. Andito lang po ako para ibigay ang order niyo. At hinihingi ko ang bill niyo. Hindi ako
bayarang babae at kung gusto niyo maghire na lang kayo ng ibang prostitu—." I stop when the
big guy slapped my cheeks. Nalasahan ko yung dugo sa labi ko. "I want to fuck y—." Bago pa
niya maituloy ang sasabihin niya bigla na lang siyang bumagsak sa sahig. Halos lahat ng tao sa
bar ay napatigil. Even the loud music. Someone just punch the big guy. Napalingon ako
sakanya. He's tall and all I can see is his silhouette.
"What the fuck is wrong with you man." Sabi nung kulay abo ang buhok.
"I own this bar. This will be the last time I'll see you here. Leave before I kill you." The bouncer
dragged the three guys away.
"Everybody, enjoy the night." His voice is so cold and holds power. Ang lalim ng boses niya at
halos magtayuan ang balahibo ko. I'm looking at him dahil ngayon ko lang siya makikita. The
owner of this bar. Pero dahil madilim at tanging disco lights lang ang ilaw hindi ko siya makita.
"And you, go back to work." And before I could even have a glance on his face agad siyang
tumalikod at naglalad palayo.
"Marsh! OMG ka girl! Kinausap ka ni boss. Ano nakita mo ba siya? Guwapo ba? Ishare mo
naman teh." But I stayed rooted on my place.
"Babalik na ako sa trabaho." Sabi ko at hindi pinansin si Janice.
"Marshhhhh." Sabi niya habol hinahabol ako.
What's wrong with me? Bakit ang bilis ng tibok ng puso ko?
***
Mz's Note: So ayun nga bumalik na ako sa pagsusulat. Gusto ko ng makatapos kahit isang
libro. Lagi na lang hindi natutuloy. [/sigh; but anyway, tatapusin ko ito hanggang dulo. So
support me guys. Don't forget to vote and comment.

[ 4 CHAPTERII ]
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Chapter II: La Casa

Marsh Lahm's Point of View     "Ate sabi ko naman sayo magbebehave ako dito sa bahay nila
Ninang. Basta enjoy ka lang sa wedding nila Ate Stacey." Sabi ni Marco.
Tumingin ako kay Aling Nelda—Marco's Godmother. "Thank you po talaga dahil babantayan
niyo si Marco." Sabi ko na lang. Ang laki ng utang na loob ko sa kanya dahil sa tuwing ginagabi
ako sa pagtatrabaho siya ang nagaalaga sa kapatid ko. She's mid-40's at halos lahat ng anak
niya ay wala na sa poder niya.
"Naku! Sabi naman sayo Marsh ayos lang 'yun. Mas gusto ko ngang may bata dito sa bahay
para may maingay naman. Haha. Wag kang magalala aalagaan ko yang kapatid mo." Sabi niya.
"Kung sana andito lang si Mareng Martha. May kakwentuhan sana ako." Ngumiti na lang ako ng
tipid ng banggitin niya ang pangalan ni nanay. Si  Aling Nelda at si Mama ay matalik na
magkaibigan noon.
"Thank you po talaga." Sabi ko. "Marco, wag kang masyadong magpapapawis ah? Wag ka ding
makulit at wag mong papagudin ang ninang mo. Wag mo ding kakalimutang uminom ng gamot."
Paalala ko sakanya.
"Ate naman ilang beses mo ng sinabi yan." Sabi niya habang nakasimangot. Niyakap ko siya.
"Magiingat ka Marco." Sabi ko sa kapatid ko at hinalikan ang pisngi niya. "Ingat ka din Ate."
"Sige po Aling Nelda. Mauuna na po ako." Sabi ko. Tumingin muna ako kay Marco sa huling
pagkakataon at kumaway sakanya. Ito lang ang unang beses na mahihiwalay ako sakanya ng
matagal. Nagbuntong hininga na lang ako at sumakay ng tricycle para umuwi sa inuupuhan
naming apartment. Maliit lang 'yun pero siguradong malinis. Kailangan ko pang kunin ang mga
gamit kong dadalhin sa La Casa.
Pagkababa ko agad akong nagbayad. Umakyat ako ng hagdan patungong 3rd floor. Wala
naman kasing elevator dito.  Kung makakapagipon pa sana ako ng mas malaki pang pera lilipat
kami ng apartment ni Marco. Kumunot ang noo ko ng may lalaking naka sombrero ang nasa
tapat ng pinto ng apartment namin.
"Anong kailangan niyo?" Tanong ko ng makarating ako sa pwesto niya.
"Magandang araw po Ma'am. Kayo po ba ang nakatira sa apartment na to?" He asked.
"Oo ako nga." I said.
"Kayo po ba si Miss Marsh Lahm?" I nodded. Bigla niyang inabot sa akin ang hawak niyang
kahon. "Delivery po Ma'am. Paki pirmahan na lang po tong form na ito." Kinuha ko ang ballpen
na inabot niya at pumirma gamit ang pangalan ko. Marsh Lahm.
"Thank you Ma'am." He said and left. Tiningnan ko ang kahon na hawak ko kanino naman
galing to? Pumasok muna ako sa loob at ibinaba ang kahon. May maliit na card na nakasingit
sa dito. I checked the card.
"I'm sorry." Basa ko sa nakasulat. Biglang sumidhi ang galit ng makilala ko kung kanino galing
ang kahon. Tumingin ako sa kalendaryo na nakasabit sa tabi ng ref. It's 25th day of the month.
Hinawakan ko ang kahon at nilagay sa isang kwarto. It's a gift from him or maybe from her.
Hindi ko alam basta ang alam ko siya ang dahilan kung bakit nawalan kami ni Marco ng
magulang. Kung bakit kailangan kong tumigil ng pagaaral. At kung bakit kailangan kong
magtrabaho ng magtrabaho para mabuhay ang kapatid ko. Lagi siyang nagpapadala ng kung
ano ano pero hindi ko yun binubuksan at tinatambak lang sa kwarto na ito. Kung makikilala at
makikita ko lang siya, ibabalik ko lahat ng ibinigay niya.
"Marsh! Let's go." Rinig kong may kumatok at sumigaw sa labas. Andito na si Stacey.
Sinarhan ko ang pinto at pinatay ang ilaw. Kinuha ko ang bag ko at lumabas ng apartment.
Sumalubong sa akin ang masiglang ngiti ni Stacey.
"WELCOME TO LA CASA DELA LORSIENDEL." Iyon ang nakasulat sa malaking gate. Halos 4
na oras ang tinagal ng byahe at ang alam ko wala na kami sa Manila. Habang nasa byahe kami
sinabi sakin ni Stacey na ang mapapangasawa niya ang may ari nito.
I was amazed on how beautiful it looks. This place is a paradise.
"Marsh bumaba ka na dyan." Sabi ni Stacey at agad akong bumaba sa van na sinakyan namin
papunta dito. "So yeah, welcome and just enjoy, okay?" She said as she spreads her arms
widely. It's a mansion. Modern mansion. May malaking garden at punong puno ito ng mga
bulaklak. May fountain din sa gitnang bahagi ng garden. The mansion was made out of glass
and it shouts luxury.
"C'mon Marsh." Stacey said at hinila ako papasok sa loob. And I was right. Hindi lang labas ang
maganda kundi pati ang loob. There's an expensive chandelier hanging on the ceiling. Lot of
paintings on the wall. Everything here worth a million.
"Baby, you're here." Someone said from behind. Parehas kaming napalingon ni Stacey. "Baby!"
She exclaimed at lumapit doon sa lalaki. The guy stood 6'0 in height. His hair was dark, his face
was raw-boned and tanned, and his eyes—isn't it gray?
"I missed you baby." He said as his lips landed on  Stacey's lips. Agad akong lumingon and feel
out of place. "Oops. Sorry 'bout that." I heard Stacey faked a cough. "Hey cousin. So this is
Kelvin Williams, my soon-to-be-husband. Kelvin this Marsh, my cousin." She said. I smiled.
"Kelvin." He, too, smiled at me. At nakita ko ang pagkakunot ng noo niya. "Nagkita na ba tayo?"
Sabi niya. "I'm sure I've seen you somewhere." He said. Bigla akong napaisip. Kung nagkita na
kami dapat matatandaan ko siya. Bihira lang ako makakita ng Greek God na bumaba sa Mt.
Olympus.
"Sorry? I'm sure for myself that this is the first time." I said and smiled a little. I'm not an introvert
but I'm not an extrovert either. I'm just...me.
"Anyway, baby darating din ang mga pinsan ko dito sa La Casa. And I—."
"We're here!" Rinig kong sabi nung babaeng kakarating lang.
"Sister-in-law! Oh em geh! Finally! Ikakasal na din kayo." As she hugged Stacey.
"Hey man." A man's voice, mild and unruffled, came from the doorway.
"Hello everyone." Stacey said with a sweet smile.
"Where's Kalev?" Tanong ni Kelvin.
"I dunno." Sagot nung babaeng matangkad. "Sabi niya susunod daw siya. He's big enough.
Kaya na niya sarili niya. Damn busy man." Sagot niya as her eyes landed on mine.
"Ohh. Sorry. I see, you had a company. Hi my name is Victoria." She said at lumapit sa akin.
She's tall and blond, with an elegant body. "Just call me Tori. Yours?" She asked.
"And hey. I'm Elizabeth." She's shorter than Tori. She possesses a round blue eyes and brown
hair. Both of them wears dress and I pray to all Saints to open the ground for me. Feeling out of
place. They're so beautiful. Really.
"Eli and Tori! Don't scare the little girl." Sabi nung kasama nilang lalaki. He was tall, a thin reed
of a man who had to bend over to give me a kiss on my hands. "Nikos at your service." He said
with a wink. Agad kong binawa ang kamay ko dahil sa gulat.
"You are the one scaring her, Nikos." Sabi ni Elizabeth.
"This is Marsh. My cousin." Sabi ni Stacey. "Ihahatid ko lang siya sa magiging kwarto niya."
"Bye Marsh." I just smiled at sumunod kay Stacey. They seems so nice and kind and I feel guilty
all of a sudden dahil hindi man lang ako nakapag salita kanina. Maybe because I'm...shy?
Parang may intruder na pumasok sa kanila.
"Don't be shy Marsh. They are all good. Trust me. Sa tingin ko naman makakahanap ka din ng
mga bagong kaibigan dito." Sabi ni Stacey. "This will be your room for the meantime." I ran my
fingers to my hair as I scanned the room. "I hope so." I mused. I took a deep breath and
repeated softly. "I'm hoping." When my parents died in a car crash I did everything for my little
brother. And never had a chance to make friends.
"Puwede ka namang mamasyal dito, Marsh. Malapit lang ang dagat dito." I'm a bit weary after
my emotional thoughts. "I will." Sabi ko.
"See you in a bit." She said as she bid her goodbye and closed the door. Ibanaba ko ang back
pack ko sa kama. It was a silk Victorian bed.    There's a fifty inches television in the wall,
comfort room, a table, and a sofa set on the side. May sliding glass din sa left side and I
presumed kapag lumabas ka yun na yung balcony. The room was huge. I wandered around.
Mas malaki pa yata to sa inuupahan naming apartment. I mumbled. Nahiga ako sa kama at
tumingin sa kisame. Hindi ako sanay ng walang ginagawa kaya naalala ko ang sinabi ni Stacey.
I could go for a walk sa dalampasigan. Agad akong tumayo at lumabas. Thanks God,
natatandaan ko naman ang daan palabas. The villa is quiet. Siguro nagpapahinga pa yung
ibang tao. But it's already 5 in the afternoon. Hmm. Nakita ko ulit yung garden. This garden
never fails to amuse me.
Tama nga ang sinabi ni Stacey konting lakad lang ang ginawa ko and I can now see the wide
blue oceans. "Wow." I exclaimed. Para akong batang nagtatakbo sa may dalampasigan. The
color of the sand was white at ang linis ng tubig sa dagat. I walked barefoot at itinabi ko ang
tsinelas ko sa gilid. Kung nandito lang sana si Marco sigurado akong magugustuhan niya to.
I chuckled when I saw sea shell. Siguro kapag may nakakita sa akin dito mapapagkalaman
akong baliw. Pinulot ko yung sea shell na hugis puso. And little did I know I'm smiling like an
idiot.
Hindi ko alam kung ilang minuto na akong nandito sa dalampasigan. I never knew the ocean
can calm me like these. Babalik na sana ako sa La Casa. Baka hinahanap na ako ni Stacey.
Agad akong tumalikod sa dagat at sinuot ang tsinelas ko. Maglalakad na sana ako ng may
nakita akong lalaki. He stood 6'2 in height. Meters away from me and he's looking at me intently.
It's like he's staring at me for a long time. And my heart...
...my heart just skipped a beat. 
***
I appreciate appreciation.

[ 5 CHAPTERIII ]
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Chapter III: Symphonies

Marsh Lahm's Point of View Weird. Yan agad ang pumasok sa isip ko habang inaalala ko pa din
ang nangyari kanina sa dalampasigan. Those eyes...it's predatory. This feelings is so foreign to
me. Ngayon ko lang to naramdaman. Pinaghalong takot at excitement at saya? Hindi ko alam. I
was back from reverie ng may kumatok sa pinto.
"Dinner is ready, cousin." Sabi ni Stacey at hinila ang kamay ko. "Sandal—." Hindi ko na
naituloy ang sasabihin ko ng pababa na kami ng hagdan. I never been so conscious about
myself. Pero ngayon, kung ikaw ba naman ang may kasamang parang mga God and Goddess
mula sa Mt. Olympus baka kapag tumabi ako sa kanila mapagkamalan akong katulong. Gusto
ko lang sanang tingnan ang sarili ko sa salamin. Pero hindi ko na nagawa dahil hila na ako ni
Stacey. Naka simpleng t-shirt lang ako at maong na shorts. Habang pababa napansin kong may
nakalagay na piano sa may gilid ng staircase. It was a grand piano. Sino kaya ang gumagamit
nun? I wondered.
"Akala mo naman sobrang gwapo. Sino ba siya para habulin ko?" I heard Tori's voice and the
chattering of the utensils.
"My Mom will be here tomorrow. Gusto ka niyang makita at makausap Marsh." Sabi sa akin ni
Stacey. I just nodded my head at sumunod papuntang dining area. The dining area is composed
of long table with 12 seats. May chandelier na nakasabit sa taas. At may mga katulong
nakatayo sa gilid.
"Marsh!" Elizabeth exclaimed ng makita niya ako. "Sabi ni Stacey nahihiya ka daw samin? Oh
no, don't be. Kung gusto mo sumama ka sa bridal shower bukas?" Sabi niya while clasping my
hands. She squealed like a little girl but realization hits her at unti-unting nawala ang ngiti sa labi
niya.
"Oh my goodness! Elizabeth we're so busted!" Sabi ni Tori habang nakakunot ang noo.
"What bridal shower are you talking about Elizabeth Dianna Williams? Please enlighten me."
Sabi ni Kelvin na nakaupo sa kabisera habang may madilim ang mukha.
"Ha-ha-ha Kuya. It was just a harmless party for Ate Stacey. Like duh." She said at patay
malisya lang. Tumabi si Stacey kay Kelvin at ako naman ay naupo katabi ni Elizabeth at
kaharap si Nikos.
"We promise you, no boys. Magpaparty lang kami sa bar and of course kami lang girls." Sabi ni
Tori habang nagpatuloy kumain. "Marsh is coming with us." Tori added with a grin as she winked
at me.
"Baby, party lang yun okay? Girls night out. No boys. No strippers. Just us." Stacey cooed and
give Kelvin a kiss on the cheeks. How sweet.
"Make sure of it." Kelvin replied.
"Don't act like a saint Kelvin. There's also a bachelor party for you. Who knows what will
happen?" Nikos smirked as he continue to slice the steak. Si Stacey naman ang kumunot ang
noo.
"Baby..." he coughed. "It was just a harmless party." Ginaya niya ng sinabi ni Elizabeth. That
made me laugh. Napatingin silang lahat sa akin. Bigla kong natikom ang bibig ko.
"S-sorry." Sabi ko. Dapat kasi nirerendahan ko ang bibig ko.
"Wow. You're so beautiful when you laugh like that. Your eyes glows and trust me you looked
like a freakin' goddess." Sabi ni Nikos at nakatingin sa akin. Nagiwas ako ng tingin. Flattered,
tinuon ko na lang ang pansin ko sa pagkain sa mesa. This is so embarrassing. "So anyway, I
was saying baby, mga pinsan ko lang at kaibigan ang kasama ko sa party. I promise you no
girls. Baka hindi mo ako siputin sa kasal natin eh." Kelvin mumbled while looking at Stacey.
Halata naman sa mukha nila na inlove na inlove sila sa isa't-isa. They're both lucky.
"Pajama party later. Movie marathon tayo? Just like what we usually do? Marsh sama ka?" Sabi
ni Elizabeth sa akin.
"Sounds good to me." I said.
WATCHING a movie with them is a new experience to me. Nakaupo ako sa kama ni Elizabeth
at si Stacey naman ay nakaupo sa carpet habang kumakain ng pop corn. Nakadapa naman si
Elizabeth at Tori habang nanonood ng Hangover I.
"This is nice." I said while watching. "We're always doing these when we have time. Girls night
out. Sleep overs and such." Sabi ni Elizabeth. Both of them are so friendly and they are so
warm.
"This is actually my first time." Sabi ko naman. Agad namang napaupo si Tori at humarap sa
akin. "Really? First time is always the best." She added. Her blond hair is tied in a bun at
ngayon ko lang napansin na hindi sila yung ibang mayayaman na puro paganda lang ang alam.
"Anong ginagawa mo sa free time mo?" Tanong ni Elizabeth. Napaisip ako, ano nga bang
ginagawa ko? Minsan lang naman ako magkaroon ng free time at nakakasigurado akong
ibinibigay ko yun sa kapatid ko.
"Playing with my younger brother." I said.
"Ohh. Bakit hindi mo siya sinama dito?" Sabi ni Tori. I shook my head. "Long story." I answered.
"How about your parents? Where are they?" Biglang napalingon sa puwesto namin si Stacey na
kanina pang abala sa pagkain ng pop corn.
"I don't have parents anymore." I mumbled. Shock is visible on her face. "Sorry Marsh for
asking." Tori said while pouting. "No it's okay. Matagal na yun." Yun na lang ang nasabi ko. "Can
I leave for a moment? Iinom lang ako ng tubig." She had touch a sensitive spot on my heart.
"O-okay. You may go. Pero babalik ka, alright? May Hangover 2 and 3 pa tayong isusunod." Tori
studied my calm face. Lumabas ako sa kwarto ni Elizabeth and dumiretso pababa ng hadgan.
Ilang ilaw na lang ang bukas at masyadong dim na ang ilaw ng nilalalaran ko. Pababa ako ng
hadan ng may narinig akong tumutugtog ng piao. It was soft melody. Habang bumababa ako
mas lalong lumalakas ang tunog. If my memory serves me right, it was a piano piece by
Beethoven. Fur Elise. Natandaan ko ng high school ako may music class kami. It's like nabuhay
ulit si Beethoven para tumugtog ulit. It has a light, mellow character. Tuloyan akong bumaba sa
hagdan. I saw a man playing the piano. His back facing mine. All I can see is his black hair. It
seems so soft. Plus, he has a bulky sexy back. And how the hell he could play a piano in a dim
light like these? And little did I know nakatingin ako sakanya for as long as I can't remember.
Impossibleng si Nikos to. Lalo na si Kelvin. His aura seems different.
"Enjoying the show?" A deep baritone voice mumbled at tumingin siya sa gawi ko. I can't see
his face clearly because of the dim light. Kahit hindi ko siya makita alam kong siya yung lalaking
nakita ko sa dalampasigan.
"I-ikaw. Ikaw yung nakatingin sa akin kanina." I exclaimed. Tumayo siya at doon ko lang
napagtanto na hanggang balikat niya lang ako. He's so tall. Taller than Kelvin. Maybe six feet
and 2 inches long?
"Hmm. I was looking at you? Now that's hilarious." He said as his lips turns into a smirk. "I was
there to witness the sun set. Not to stare at you." He said at naglakad ng dahan dahan sa
puwesto ko. Habang lumalapit siya mas nakikita ko ng malinaw ang kanyang mukha. There's a
small scar marred on his eyebrows. That gives him a badboy profile. He's so handsome and too
gorgeous. So impressive. Lalo na ang tindig nito. Full of confidence. For sure he's earning a lot
of interest of every women. At tama nga ako halos wala pa ako sa balikat niya. Nasa harapan
ko na siya and I can even smell him. Manly. Yan agad ang pumasok sa isip ko. He bent down
para maabot niya ang mukha.
He possesses a aqua blue eyes together with a long lashes. A proud nose. About his jaw line?
Too stubborn. I never been able to resist his eyes. I subconsciously bite my lips. He lifted his
hands and brush its back against my cheeks. "You're skin seems the softest part of you but I
think I'll disagree once I kiss that fucking lips." And before I could respond he quickly withdrew
his hands and walk away from me like nothing happened.
Bakit ang lakas ng epekto niya sa akin. Who is...he?
* * * [/cross fingers; sana nagustohan niyo. Hahaha. Leave a comment and don't forget to vote.

[ 6 CHAPTERIV ]
-------------------------------

Chapter IV: Attraction

Marsh Lahm's Point of View        "Iha, kamusta ka naman?" Tanong sa akin ni Tita Maril habang
piniprito yung hotdog. It's already 7 in the morning. At dumating ang parents ni Stacey sa La
Casa kanina. I always been a morning person kaya 5AM pa lang ay gising na ako. Hindi din ako
makatulog ng maayos dahil sa tuwing ipipikit ko ang aking mga mata siya lang ang pumapasok
sa isip ko. I barely know that man. Hindi ko din alam kung ano ang pangalan niya. I shrugged
my thoughts away. At dahil hindi ako sanay na walang ginagawa tumulong ako sa pagluto ng
agahan.
"Ayos naman po ako Tita." I said while mixing the batter. "How about Marco?" She asked. I
looked at her and noticed the white hairs. She's already fifty-five. At mas matanda siyang
kapatid ni Mama.
"He's fine Tita." I hope so. Yun sana ang gusto kong idagdag pero pinigilan ko ang sarili ko. Ang
pamilya ni Stacey na lang ang natitira kong kamag-anak but I never asked for financial help.
Tama na yung nagtatrabaho ako sa coffee shop na pagmamay-ari ni Stacey. Tinatanaw ko 'yun
bilang isang utang na loob.
"You're already 25 right? Bakit hindi ka na magpakasal iha?" Bigla akong naubo sa sinabi ni Tita
Maril. "Tita wala pa po sa isip kong magasawa." I chuckled. "Besides busy po akong
magtrabaho para kay Marco." I added. "Alam niyo naman po ang sitwasyon ko."
"Oh dear, I'm sorry for your loss. Kung sana hindi na lang natuloy ang recital edi sana..." hindi
na naituloy ni Tita ang sasabihin niya ng biglang pumasok si Stacey sa kusina.
"Good morning." She said as she kissed her Mom on the cheeks and smiled at me. "Wow!
Pancakes. I love pancakes." She said and winked at me. I mouthed thank you at pinagpatuloy
ang pag stir ko sa batter. Napatungo na lang ako. I know Tita Maril is half blaming me for the
death of her sister. My hands grip tightened quickly to the spatula I'm holding.
"Mom anong oras kayo dumating ni Dad?" Tanong ni Stacey habang sumisimsim ng kape na
ginawa niya.
"6 in the morning, dear." Tita Maril has a soft voice. Na parang laging nakikipagusap sa isang
toddler. 
"Bakit hindi ka muna magpahinga Mom? May mga katulong naman dito. Sila na lang bahala
ang magprepapre ng breakfast namin." Sabi ni Stacey. Nakikinig lang ako sa usapan nila
habang niluluto na ang pancakes.
"Oops. Binigyan pala ni Kelvin ng day-off ang mga katulong ngayon. Magpahinga ka na lang
muna Mom at kami na lang ni Marsh ang bahala sa pagluto ng breakfast." Maril said at
hinawakan sa balikat si Tita. Tama nga ang sinabi ni Stacey dahil kahit nakaupo ka lang sa
byahe nakakapagod din. Tinanggal ni Tita Maril ang suot niyang apron at tumingin kay Stacey.
"Okay. Magpapahinga lang ako." And just like that, she exited the kitchen. Nakahinga ako ng
maluwag.
"Sorry about that Marsh." Sabi ni Stacey. I shook my head. I couldn't bear to dwell on
unhappiness now. "No it's okay. I know Tita Maril means well." I said at naglagay na ng plato sa
dining table.
"Palagi na lang niya pinapaalala sayo ang mga nangyari. Why can't she just moved on from it. I
love my Mom but I seems to hate her everytime she does that." She whined like a kid that
makes me laugh. There's no time for unhappiness. At kailangan ko ding maenjoy ang araw na
to dahil baka hindi na masundan.
"Don't worry Stacey. Ayos lang yun sa akin. Matagal na yun." I said. At saktong pagkasabi ko
nun bigla na lang pumasok si Tori at Elizabeth sa kusina. Both yawning. At nasa likod naman si
Nikos na naka walking short lang at naka black na sando.
"Breakfast?" Tanong ni Stacey at inilagay ang hawak niyang plato sa lamesa.
"Nice. Sakto pala ang baba namin." Elizabeth said. "Punta tayo sa resort pagkatapos ng
breakfast." Sabi ni Tori at kumuha ng pancakes.
"Nawawala na naman ba si Kalev? I thought he's already here." Sabi ni Nikos. Napatingin ako
kay Nikos ng sabihin niya ang pangalan na Kalev.
"Ow. Maybe supervising his hotel here. Alam mo naman yun kahit saan pumunta trabaho ang
inuuna." Elizabeth said.
"May hotel din dito?" Tanong ko at sumalo sa kanila sa pagkain.
"Yep." Tori answered popping the 'p'
"Resort and Hotel owned by our cousin named Kalev. Katabi lang yun ng La Casa." She said.
Napatango na lang ako sa nalaman ko.
"Talking behind my back is rude." Someone said from behind. Naagaw niya ang buong
atensiyon namin. Specially mine. He's the guy from the shore and the one who played the
piano! He's wearing a walking short and a simple white shirt. Halos magtaasan ang balahibo ko
dahil nagtama ang tingin namin. Pero agad akong umiwas pero ramdam ko pa din na tinitingnan
pa din niya ako.
"Bro, breakfast?" I heard Nikos said. Tinuon ko na lang ang atensiyon ko sa kinakain kong
pancakes.
"I'll make my own coffee." I heard his dangerous voice again. Saan ko nga ulit narinig ang boses
niya? Tiningnan ko siya habang gumagawa ng kape. I never thought watching a man make his
own coffee could be this hot. Hindi ko maalis ang tingin ko sa kanya. He set down his mug of
coffee, then sipped thoughtfully from his own as he watched me back. I hurriedly withdrew my
gaze off him. This is embarrassing. Sigaw ng isip ko. Nahuli niya akong tumitingin sa kanya!
It's like he studied me while he stood besides the island counter and drank his coffee. This is the
most awkward breakfast I have ever been.
"I SAW the secret glances."
"Me too! There's love in the air."
"Marsh is blushing."
I looked away from them. Nandito kaming apat sa kwarto ni Elizabeth. Looking for a suit to wear
sa resort. Well para sa akin nakapili na ako. Kaunting damit lang naman ang dala ko dito sa La
Casa. And now, they're teasing me about what happened. Thought for me wala namang
nangyari.
"Magpalit na lang tayo." Iwas ko at tumayo.
"But Marshhhh. Tell us something. What was that?" Sabi ni Tori. Curiosity is written all over their
faces. "Nothing happened." I said at humarap sa kanila. Praying to all the Saints na palitan na
nila ang pinaguusapan namin.
"But I'm sure there is something. Actually, this is the first time na nakita ko si Kalev na tumitig ng
matagal sa isang babae." Sabi ni Elizabeth. I stayed quiet. "Well, ano kayang puwedeng isuot.
I'm so excited." Sabi ni Stacey. Changing the topic. Nakahinga ulit ako ng maluwag. My heart is
beating so fast and any minute baka sumabog na lang ako.
"I forgot pupunta nga pala tayong resort." Sabi ni Tori. "I'll check my outfit of the day." Sabi
naman ni Elizabeth at tiningnan ang damit na nakalagay sa closet niya. "Ikaw ba Marsh?
Babalik ka ba sa kwarto mo to change?" Tanong ni Tori while looking for a clothes to wear.
Tiningnan ko ang suot ko. It was a gray shirt at short na hindi gaanong kaikli. "Ito na ang
susuotin ko." Sabi ko sa kanila. Lumapit sa akin si Tori.
"Oh no no. It's a big no." Hinawakan ni Tori ang magkabilang balikat ko. "Pero wala akong
maisusuot." I said while looking down.
"Akong bahala sayo Marsh." Tori said with a wink. Tumingin ako kay Stacey to ask for help pero
tinawanan niya lang ako. I pouted. Kumuha si Tori ng damit sa loob ng bagahe niyang dala at
ng makahanap na siya agad siyang bumalik sa harapan ko.
"Here, wear these." She said as she handed the clothes she's holding. "But..."
"No buts Marsh. Don't worry hindi ko pa to nasusuot. Look, may tag pa yan." She insisted.
"F-fine." I said. "Babalik na lang ako sa kwarto na ginagamit ko at doon na lang ako
magpapalit." I said. They nodded. "We'll wait you at the living room." Sabi ni Stacey. I flashed a
sweet smile that I can mustered at lumabas sa kwarto ni Elizabeth. Pabalik ako sa guest room
ng mapansin kong there's a lot of extra room at the 3rd floor. Nakikita ko na ang ginagamit kong
kwarto ng bigla kong nakita si Kalev na palabas mula sa isang kwarto. Bigla akong napatigil.
"Scared, aren't you?" He said and looked at me. Nakikita ko na naman ang kulay asul niyang
mata. "N-no." I said while stuttering. He walked towards me at nilapit ang mukha niya sa akin.
"A-anong gagawin mo?" I said ng maalala ko na naman ang nangyari kagabi.
I saw him smirked. "Kung malalaman mo kung anong gagawin ko sayo baka bigla ka na lang
tumakbo." He said and my knees started to wobble. Napasinghap ako ng mas lalo niyang ilapit
ang mukha niya sa akin. Our lips could touch in any moment. "But now now, baby. Not now. See
you, Marsh." He said and just like last time, tumalikod siya at nagsimulang lumalad papalayo.
Napahawak ako sa puso ko at napasandal sa pader. What was that? At ang mas pinagtataka ko
paano niya nalaman amg pangalan ko?

🤣🤣
***
I hope you like it. Don't forget to support.

[ 7 CHAPTERV ]
-------------------------------

Chapter V: Heat
Marsh Lahm's Point of View           I stared my reflection in the mirror. I'm wearing a high waisted
ripped maong shorts at naka sleeveless na crop top. Itinaas ko na din ang mahaba kong buhok
into a messy bun. I stood 5'5 in height. Round brown eyes. Thanks to the genes of my parents
medyo matangos ang ilong ko. Kulay pink din ang labi ko. Dahil hindi ako sanay ng ganitong
damit kinuha ko ang white silk coat sa bag ko at inilagay sa balikat ko.
Lumabas ako ng kwarto at bumaba ng hagdan. Papunta pa lang ako sa living room ng nakita ko
na sila. Tori is wearing a black short at loose white shirt at kitang-kita mo ang suot niyang black
brassiere sa loob. She's sexy lalo na at mas na emphasized ang haba ng legs niya. While
Elizabeth wears a Bohemian attire. And I looked at Stacey's side but she's pouting like a kid.
She wears a shirt and a square pants. "Bakit ka nakasimangot cousin?" Tanong ko sakanya ng
makalapit na ako sa kanila. "I got a text message from Kelvin and says no showing of too much
skin." And rolled her eyes. At ngayon ko lang naalala na may superstitious beliefs tungkol sa
dalawang ikakasal. Maybe that's the reason why Kelvin is MIA.
"Oh my. You look wonderful Marsh." Elizabeth said while running towards me and hug me. "So
hot. Siguro kung lalaki lang ako matagal na kitang niligawan." She said. "Don't joke around like
that."
"Woah. Parang hindi kita nakilala Marsh. You look...awesome." Sabi ni Stacey. I blushed.
"Let's go girls and hit the white sand." Tori said in a singsong voice. I smiled and followed them.
THE RESORT is 5 minutes walk away from the La Casa. Una kong napansin ang mga cottage
na nakatayo sa may gilid. There's also a lot of people, girls wearing two piece while boys
wearing trunks.  Most of the tourists came from foreign countries. Talaga pa lang dinadayo ang
lugar na'to. Maybe because of the white sand, the breezy ambiance, activities and suchs.
"11 o'clock guys." Sabi ni Tori. Kumunot ang noo ko sa sinabi niya. Pero agad kong nakuha yun
ng biglang tumingin si Stacey at si Elizabeth sa left side. And there stood a tall guy. Mukha
siyang British. "So hot." Sabi ni Tori. "Mas gwapo pa siya kay Travis." She added.
"Really Victoria? Alam nating lahat dito na mas gwapo pa si Travis sa lalaking 'yun." Sabi
naman ni Elizabeth. Hindi ko naman alam ang sinasabi nila kaya nakikinig lang ako.
"Ayokong ng marinig ang pangalan niya. So please don't say it." She rolled her eyes. Dumiretso
kami sa isang bakanteng cottage. Many people specially grownup man paid them attention pero
mukhang sanay na sila sa atensiyon na nakukuha nila and continue to walk like they own the
land. Hindi pa kami nakakaupo ng magsalita si Tori.
"Scuba diving?"
"Great. I want to try it again." Stacey answered.
"Sama ka Marsh?" Tanong sa akin ni Elizabeth. Napailing ako. "I'll just stay here." I said. It's
already 9 in the morning at may kainitan na din.
"Are you sure?" May pagaalinlangan sa boses ni Tori but I smiled at them. "Yes. Don't worry
guys hindi ako mawawala." I chuckled. "Okay then. Babalik din kami agad." Sabi ni Stacey as
they bid their goodbye. Naiwan ako sa cottage magisa. Tori's character is somewhat
adventurous. Same goes to Elizabeth. Something that I'm not so I've decided to just stay here
and wait for them to go home.
"Want some company?" Bigla akong nagulat ng may nagsalita sa likod. "A beautiful lady should
not be alone in a wonderful place." He said maliciously. He's tall and bulky. Umiling ako. "Sorry.
Hindi ako magisa." I said. He frowned. "English only baby." Halos magtayuan ang balahibo ko
sa sinabi niya. Tumayo ako sa pagkaupo at umatras. Scared.
"Leave her alone or do you want me to break you?" I stared at him with a wide eyes. It was
Kalev!
He raised his hands. "Geez. Man, you don't need to swear." At siya na ang kusang lumayo. I
stared at Kalev wearing white polo and the buttons were undone. Madilim ang mukha niyang
nakatingin sa akin and I just stood infront of him and I licked my lips and his eyes followed the
movement.
"Kung may mambabastos sayo you better shout for help or run." Pagalit niyang sabi. "I- I beg
your pardon?"
"And what the hell are you wearing?" He muttered with disbelief. Ano bang problema niya?
"Tori told me I can wear these." Sabi ko at yumuko. I can't handle his gaze. Napaka init. Parang
binabasa niya ang isip ko. "That brat." He cursed with his breath.
"Better yet don't leave my side until they're here." He mused. With the breeze blowing up his
hair and across his face, it also pressed his white polo into his wide and very muscled chest.
Will it be so hard if I press my hands to his chest? Bigla kong winaksi sa aking isipin. Gusto
kong sampalin ang sarili ko dahil sa mga sinasabi ko.
I clasped my hands together in my lap. His brows rose but didn't move any closer. Biglang
lumiwanag ang mukha niya na parang may magandang naisip. "Come with me." He said but I
hesitated. "Bakit naman ako sasama sayo? Hindi kita kilala." I said stating a fact. He chuckled.
He actually chuckled! "Call me Kalev and I won't hurt you." Sounds good but not convincing.
Hindi na niya ako binigyan ng pagkakataong magsalita ng hawakan niya ang kamay ko at hinila.
My fingers were interlock with him. I inhaled the scent of him from the gentle breeze: pure
masculinity mixed with the scent of wild flowers.
"Saan ba tayo pupunta?" I asked ng mapansin kong lumalayo na kami sa dalampasigan.
"Almost there." He said and true to his words tumigil kami sa mapunong lugar but that doesn't
caught my attention but the lake in the middle of it. May mga bulaklak din sa mga gilid.
Everything here feels so perfect. "Wow." Yun na lang ang nasabi ko. I can feel the soft bermuda
grass. "Paano mo nalaman to?" I asked at parang batang tumakbo palapit sa lawa.
Naramdamang ko siyang nakasunod dito. "Just after I bought this place." Bigla akong napatigil
ng bigla akong napaisip.
"Bakit mo naman ako dinala dito?" So far sa tingin ko ito ang unang matinong usapan naming
dalawa. He shrugged. "That's for me to keep." Hindi ko na lang pinansin ang sagot niya at
tinuon ang pansin ko sa malinaw ng tubig ng lawa.
"Can I swim here?" Tanong ko dahil parang hinihila ng tubig ang katawan ko. "Go on." Sabi niya
at lumapit. I excitedly removed my white silk coat at lumubog sa malamig na tubig ng lawa.
"This feels great." Sabi ko sakanya habang may ngiti sa mga labi ko. Pero agad nabawi yun ng
nakita kong tinatanggal ni Kalev ang suot niyang polo.
"Why are you removing your polo?" I shrieked. He didn't speak and dive into the water.
Lumangoy siya palapit sa akin. "What are you doing?" Tanong ko and my heart started to beat
faster than the normal rate. Magkatapat na ang mukha namin at kaunti na lang maglalapit na
ang labi namin.
"Wondering what it would be like's going to distract both of us?" Kalev continued. I look up
again, wary. I could feel his pulse throb where his fingers brushed my wrist, yet I'd made no
move to pull back
"You bewitched me." Just as quickly, he brought his lips down to lay them softly against
mine—touching, melting, burning.
Shock overtook me. Gusto kong ilayo ang labi ko sakanya but his mouth intimately caress my
lips. Somewhere deep inside me, I want to succumb. He moved his lips in gentle rhythm and felt
a moan well up deep from my throat.
"I just wonder what fire there will be to discover beneath this attraction."

☹️
***
Ahmm.

[ 8 CHAPTERVI ]
-------------------------------

Chapter VI: Lost for words

Marsh Lahm's Point of View     Just like what normal people do... I run away from him. I heard
him shouting my name but I never dared to looked back.
Nilagay ko ang kanang kamay ko sa dibdib ko at pinakinggan ang pintig ng puso ko. Why am I
nervous? Why did he kissed me? And cursed myself dahil nagustuhan ko ang halik niya. Who is
he to make me feel like these? Naglakad ako pabalik sa La Casa. Mabuti na lang hindi niya ako
sinundan. Nakahinga ako ng maluwag ng makapasok ako sa loob. Patakbo akong pumasok sa
ginagamit kong kwarto at dumiretso sa loob ng comfort room para magligo. Tumapat ako sa
shower and let images flow inside my mind.
And the worse scenario that I could ever imagine is both of us in the bed—naked! Walang
magandang dulot ang papunta ko dito. Dati hindi naman ako ganito ahh? I'm not an easy girl at
may balak akong maging matandang dalaga!
I tsk-ed at kukunin na sana ang towel para ipunas sa basa kong katawan ng maalala kong hindi
pala ako nagdala ng towel sa loob ng comfort room. Wala naman sigurong papasok sa
kwartong ginagamit ko. Nasa resort sila Stacey. Nagpapahinga sila Tita Maril so I guess ayos
lang lumabas ng cr nang nakahubad.
Binuksan ko ang pinto ng cr at lumabas ng walang saplot sa katawan. Hinanap ko kung saan
nakalagay ang towel ko ng biglang bumukas ang pinto ng kwartong ginagamit ko. My heart
skipped a beat. Biglang pumasok ang taong bumukas ng pinto and it's none other than Kalev at
may hawak niya ang white satin coat ko. Nang makita niya ako napaawang ang labi niya dahil
sa gulat. Kahit ako hindi ko alam kung ano ang gagawin ko!
"Aaaaaahhhhh!" Sigaw ko at binato sa kanya ang unang mahawakan ko.
"Fucking hell!" He muttered. "Turn around! Don't look!" I shrieked at binabato pa din siya. Bigla
siyang tumalikod kaya sinamantala ko ang pagkakataon na kunin ang tuwalya na nakapatong
sa side table at tumakbo papuntang cr.
My face is red as an apple from the embarrassment. Ito ang unang beses na may nakakita sa
buong katawanan ko. Hindi ko alam kung anong irereact ko. Ano na lang ang mukhang
ihaharap ko kapag nakita ko si Kalev? Ano na lang ang mangyayari sa akin. Paano na?
Nagstay ako sa cr ng halos sampung minuto at nagpasyang lumabas. Ang buong akala ko
lumabas na siya ng kwarto but I'm wrong. Nakatayo pa din siya kung saan ko siya nakitang
nakatayo kanina. Mabilis akong nagbihis habang nakatalikod siya. I faked a cough to get his
attention ng matapos na ako. Lumingon siya sa akin at tahimik na lumakad palapit sa kama.
"Nakalimutan mo." Sabi niya at ibinaba sa kama yung coat ko. "And I'm here to say sorry." Bigla
akong napatigil. Ganun na ba ang pagsisisi niya dahil hinalikan niya ako? He regretted it. I'm
ashamed of myself. Maybe because I don't know how to kiss. Or maybe because that's my first
time kissing a man.
"Sorry for not being sorry." Bigla akong napatingin sa kanya. "What do you mean?"  Naguluhan
ako sa sinabi niya. Ano ba ang gusto niyang iparating. I studied his face but his face stays
emotionless. "Because I'm just starting Marsh. I'll make sure this is not the last time that I will
taste your luscious lips." And he flashed a dirty smirk at lumabas ng kwarto. Tiningnan ko ang
papalayo niyang likod. Bigla akong napaupo sa sofa. Baka bigla na lang ako matumba. Naalala
ko na naman ang sinabi niya at naghatid iyon ng kakaibigang kilig sa akin. A hot tingling
sensation. Am I in...danger?
"MARSHHH." Sabi ni Stacey at yun ang nakakuha ng atensiyon ko. Nandito na kami sa likod ng
La Casa. Mahangin ang lugar na 'to dahil mapuno. Mayroon ding duyan na nakatali sa
magkabilang puno.
"Marsh, we're sorry kung naiwan ka namin sa resort." It was Tori. "We thought nawala ka na.
But then Nikos texted me. Mabuti na lang nakita ka niya na umuwi na" she added.
"It's okay guys. Ginusto ko din naman magpaiwan. I got bored that's why I've decided na umuwi
na lang." sabi ko na lang and let the real story left untold.
"Nikos also said that Kalev is with you." Bigla akong napatigil sa sinabi ni Tori. "Hahaha. Baka
nagkamali lang si Nikos." I said with an awkward laugh. "Pagpasok mo sa main door after a
minute pumasok din si Kalev." Tori shrugged. "As long as you're fine Marsh." Sabi ni Elizabeth
na nakahiga sa isang duyan. "Party later girls wag niyo kalimutan." Sabi ni Tori. 
"Hindi tayo magpapakagabi guys. Tandaan niyo kasal ko bukas." Sabi ni Stacey na nakaupo sa
isang maliit na bangko at kumakain ng manga.
"Don't you worry Stacey. We'll set our limitations." Sabi ni Tori habang nilalagay ang binabasa
niyang libro sa lap niya.
"Besides ayokong umattend sa isang kasal na may hangover."
TIME flew so fast at namalayan ko na lang ang sarili kong nasa loob ng kotse kasama si Stacey,
Tori, at Elizabeth. It's already 8 in the evening at nagpapasalamat akong hindi ko nakita si Kalev
sa La Casa kanina. Even his shadow. Iniiwasan ko siya. Why? Because I don't know myself
when I'm near with him. Kahit pangalan ko nakakalimutan ko kapag nasa tabi ko siya. Isn't it
normal?
Malapit lang ang bar sa La Casa at pinagtataka ko kung bakit kailangan pang magkotse. Siguro
kung lalakarin mo 10 minutes lang ang layo. I really don't know how rich people minds work.
The place is crowded with people. Madaming sumasayaw sa dance floor habang may bandang
tumutogtog sa mini stage. It's a rock music kaya napaka-ingay. Do it now, Remember it later.
Yung kantang tinutugtog ng banda.
Hindi na bago ang bar sa akin dahil nagtatrabaho ako sa isang bar halos gabi-gabi kaya siguro
sanay na ako. Though, nandito as a customer and not a waitress.
"Oh my! Isn't it Trevor?" Elizabeth exclaimed at nakatingin sa mini stage. Kaya napatingin na din
ako. "Fucking hell. What the fuck is he doing here? Really? Pati ba naman dito dinadala niya
ang banda niya? Ang pangit ng boses! Nasira na tuloy ang gabi ko." Sabi ni Tori at masamang
nakatingin sa bokalista ng banda. I beg to differ. Napaka ganda ng boses ng lalaking
nangangalang Trevor.
"Tori, wag mo na lang siyang pansinin, alright? We're here to enjoy sooooo wag mo na lang
siyang isipin." Sabi ni Stacey. We heard Tori tsk-ed.
Pumwesto kami sa tapat ng bartender at naupo sa high stool.
"Four Vodka please." Sabi ni Elizabeth.
"H-hindi ako umiinom." Sabi ko kay Elizabeth. Kaya napatingin siya sa akin. "Don't worry Marsh
kaming bahala sayo. We told you, first time is always the best. Just try it okay?" She said kaya
napatango na lang ako. The bartender served the drinks. "Here is your order, ladies." At inabot
sa amin ang apat na shot glass na may laman na vodka. Inamoy ko muna ito. Alcohol. 'Yun
agad ang unang pumasok sa isip ko. They drank the vodka na para bang tubig lang ang iniinom
nila.
I sighed bago ko inumin ang nasa shot glass at ng mainom ko na ito I almost spit it. It burns on
my throat. "Nice isn't it?" Tori said while smiling. "We need three more shots and we'll be
dancing in the dance floor." Tatlo pa? Halos hindi ko na makaya yung isa. Ano ba tong
pinapasok ko. I face palmed. "Just enjoy Marsh, okay? Wag mo munang isipin kung anong
manyayari kundi isipin mo ang ngayon." Sabi ni Tori sa akin. Tori is a party goer and kinda
impulsive but she's lovable. And Elizabeth on the other hand, is kind and out going. I love them
both. And of course my cousin Stacey.
"More vodka please." Sabi ni Tori. Hindi ko na inisip ang mangyayari. Sumabay na lang ako sa
kanila at ininom ang tatlong laman ng shot glass. Nakaramdam na ako ng pagkahilo at parang
gumagaan ang pakiramdam ko. My throat is burning. My head started to spin pero sila Tori
mukhang nasa katinuan pa. My alcohol tolerance is low but there's a part of me na gustuhin
pang ipagpatuloy kahit sumasakit na ang ulo ko.
"One more shot and we'll be hitting the dance floor." Tori said at tinaas ang shot glass. "Cheers."
She said natawa ako sa ginawa niya kaya tinaas ko din ang basong hawak ko at sumigaw
kasabay ng tugtogin. "Cheers!" We said in chorus at sabay ininom ang alak. Tumayo si Tori.
"Let's go girls." At sinundan siya ni Elizabeth." Pwedeng dito na lang ako?" I said. "My head is
throbbing." I said which is true. "Ohh." And realization hits her. "Okay Marsh. Doon lang kami."
Sabi niya sabay turo sa dance floor. "Wag ka na lang biglang mawawala, okay?" I nodded. At
pumunta sila sa dance floor at sumayaw kasama ang ilang tao.
I nust be tipsy as hell. At pinapanood ko pang sila Tori while dancing at the dance floor like a
wild beast na akala mo naman ay ngayon lang sumayaw. I facepalm. Sumasakit na ang ulo ko
but still hindi ko pa rin mapigilan sarili kong uminom ng alak. I am here to enjoy so I don't limit
myself sa paginom ng alak. Isa pa minsan lang naman to at matagal bago maulit.
"A beautiful lady should not be alone in a crowded place like this." A baritone voice said from my
back. Sa lakas ng musika hindi ko gaanong marinig ang sinasabi niya. "May sinasabi ka ba?"
Balik kong tanong at lumingon. I saw a man with a boyish grin. Okay, maybe not my type. "Yes,
you want me to accompany you?" I frowned. Totally not my type. "Sorry but I'm not alone." I
said at napatingin kela Tori sa mini dance floor ng bar. Biglang umupo yung lalaki sa tabi ko.
Enough for me to have a personal space. "Do you want to dance or drink?" He asked again.
Uminom ulit ako ng alak bago umiling. I'm not a good dancer. "C'mon sexy lady. Just for a
night." Sabi niya at hinawakan ang balikat ko. Tumingin ako sa pwesto nila Stacey pero hindi ko
sila nakita. I stood up. "Don't touch me." I said at tinatanggal ang pagkahawak niya sa balikat
ko. "Don't act like a fucking virgin." He said with a hissed. Yung alak na yata ang kumocontrol sa
akin. But it doesn't matter. Sasampalin ko na sana siya ng biglang may umakbay sa akin. I froze
when I heard his voice. "Fuck off man. Don't. Touch. My. Girl." He said emphasizing each words.
I know his voice pero hindi ko maalala kung sino ang nagmamay-ari nun. He's familiar. Dahil
siguro sa daming alak na nainom ko hindi ko na alam nangyayari sa paligid ko. "Or else I'm
going to fucking kill you." He said at hinila niya ako. I don't know where we're going pero
nagpahila na lang ako sakanya. I felt so secured when he touched me. And then I realized nasa
labas na kami ng bar.
"What the fuck are you doing inside that bar!" He angrily said. Kumunot ang noo ko. "Bakit ka ba
galit? Sino ka ba?" Tanong ko buti na lang nakapagsalita pa ako ng maayos.
"You should have stayed at home! Why do trouble always find you? Paano kung wala ako
doon? Ano na lang ang mangyayari sayo?" Umiling ako. Bakit niya ba ako pinapangaralan?
Sino ba talaga siya? Pamilyar lang sa akin ang boses niya at sa tuwing inaalala ko lang lalong
sumasakit ang ulo ko. And why does his voice makes me feel weak and vulnerable? Biglang
uminit ang paligid. Buong katawan ko na ang umiinit.
"Wala namang nangyari sakin? A-at bakit ka ba n-nagagalit?" I frowned and bite my lips. "I
d-don't know you." I said at hinawakan ang ulo ko.
"Oh fuck, you asked for these." At doon ko naramdaman na may malambot na lumapat sa labi
ko.
***
Don't forget to vote and comment guys. I really appreciate appreciation.

[ 9 CHAPTERVII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter VII: The hot night

Marsh Lahm's Point of View        He was kissing me roughly. All I know, pumasok kami sa isang
kwarto at namalayan ko na lang na nakikipaghalikan ako sa isang hindi kilalang tao. I'm dazed
and on the other hand feel excited on what to do next. "Hmmmp." I moaned when he kissed me
hungrily. Umuwang ang labi ko at sinamantala niya ang pagkakataong mas palalimin pa ang
halik naming dalawa.
"I know you want me too, Marsh." He said while kissing my jawline. Hindi ko makilala ang boses
niya siguro dahil sa dami ng alak na nainom ko. Paano niya nalaman ang pangalan ko?
Whatever. All I want is to shut him up and kiss him senselessly. So I did. Nilabanan ko ang halik
niya. He inserted his tongue in my mouth and I welcomed him. I kissed him back in full force as
our tongue meets. Nararamdaman ko din ang pagkalat ng kamay niya sa katawan ko. I can feel
his one hand caressing my valley and the other is placed on my ass. Kahit may suot akong
damit ramdam ko ang init ng kamay niya.
"P-please." I mumbled ng humiwalay ang labi niya sa labi ko. "Please what my little kitten." He
asked playfully. I can see him smirking. "I-I want more." I said not thinking what will happen next.
"Don't worry baby girl, I will give you more than you expect." Sabi niya at isinandal niya ako sa
pader. His hands lowered to my breast, gently massaging as he teased my lower lip with his
teeth. My mind started to shout that this is wrong. So I started to protest but he deepened the
kiss. The thought spiraled away. Sinimulan na niyang hubarin ang damit ko leaving my
undergarments behind. He picked me up with his arms and sank me into the mattress.
Pumwesto siya sa itaas ko.
"I've been waiting for this day to come." His voices was rugged and husky. His hands caressed
me, stroking without hurry until I'm fully naked infront of him. His mouth wandered to my throat,
to my neck, and to my two valleys. I moaned.
"Ohh..." I said and bite my lips. He worked my nipple using his thumb and kiss over the curve of
my breast. Minasahe niya ang isang bundok ko and he suck like a hungry child ang kabila. I
moaned one more time.
"Ang sarap niyan ohh." I said. I feel the heat between my thighs. These sensations were dim
kaya hindi ko gaano makita ang mukha ng lalaking katalik ko. Bumaba ang halik niya sa puson
ko hanggang sa kaharap na niya ang pagkababae ko. "So beautiful." I heard him said. "So
fucking beautiful." I screamed when he touches my sex part. He brushes one of his fingers on
my thighs. "Ahh...ohhhh." I moaned at humawak sa unan to give support. And then he dived
down at naramdaman ko na may malambot na tumama sa pagkababae ko. It was his tongue!
I tangled my fingers into his hair at mas lalong idinikit ang pagkababae ko sa dila niya. He's
eating me using his wicked tongue. "Ahhh... ooohh. Oohhhh." Hello O! I never thought a man
could touch me intensely like these. "Ohh more. More...please." I begged.
"I fucking wanted you for so long, Marsh." He said pero hindi ko yun pinansin ng magsimula na
akong makaramdam ng iba. "N-naiihi ako. Oohh." I said pero patuloy pa din siya sa ginagawa
niya. "Let it out baby. Don't hold back." And so I did. "Your first orgasm." He said but I'm too
occupied para bigyan siya ng pansin. Punong-puno na din ako ng pawis.
"We're still not finished, babe." And right there, he inserted one finger inside me. "Ahhh...ohhh." I
said at tiningnan ang ginagawa niya. I saw him looking at me too. Nang magtama ang paningin
naming dalawa, I saw his wicked smile. "Look at me while I finger fuck you baby." My breath
quickened and my mouth grew hungry. "Ahh...f-faster." I'm out of words. "Damn." He hissed.
Mas binilisan pa niya ang paglabas masok ng daliri niya sa loob ko. I can feel he added one
finger. Napadaing ako ng may naramdaman akong sakit pero hindi ko iyon pinansin. "Ahhh ang
sarap ng ginagawa mo." Yun na lang ang tanging nasabi. Nakita kong hinawakan niya ang
isang dibdib ko and pinched my nipples while he finger fuck me. Hanggang sa labasan ulit ako.
"Fuck fuck fuck. I won't get tired looking at your wet pussy. Can you handle the real deal baby?"
He withdrew his fingers inside me. I wanted to protest. "You're so responsive." He said at nakita
kong ipinasok niya sa kanyang bibig ang daliri niya na para bang may tinitikman. He looks so
hot ang delectable.
And then he started to undress infront of me. Hanggang sa matira na lang ang boxer short niya.
He pulled it down and his sex sprang into life. My eyes widened. It's long and big and...I'm out of
words to describe how wonderful he is.
Don't worry it will fit." Pumwesto siya sa itaas ko at ginawaran ako ng isang malalim na halik.
Pumwesto ang kamay niya sa pagkababae ko and make a circular motion. Kinagat ko ang labi
ko para di makagawa ng ingay. "Ohh." Daing ko.
"Baby, you're so fucking hot."
I automatically wrapped my legs around him as he entered me. "Ohh...it...hurts. S-stop." I said.
Hindi ko alam na ganito pala kasakit kung unang beses mo pa lang. "I'm sorry baby. I forgot.
Don't worry hindi muna ako gagalaw." He said. His hand lay down on my stomach. Giving me
light kisses on my lips and just like that the pain subsided and easily exchanged by pleasure.
"You can move now." I said shyly and looks away. "Look at me." He said with full of power agad
naman akong tumingin sa kanya. His aqua blue eyes is now burning with desires. "I want you to
look at me while I'm fucking you baby. Don't look away." And I opened for him ready to receive
his thrust. I cried out, but the sound muffled inside my mouth. I only knew I wanted him.
"Ohhh shit you're so tight. Fuck fuck." I heard him moaned. "Ahhh shit Marsh." Sinabayan ko
siya sa paggalaw. He moved on top of me. "Ahh ohhh faster. Ahh ahhh." In a one hard thrust, he
come inside me. "We're just starting baby. Just starting."
Hindi ko alam kung ilang beses namin ginawa ito ng paulit ulit hanggang sa katawan ko na
mismo ang unang sumuko. Nakapikit na ang mga mata ko sa pagod and drifted myself to sleep

😅
***
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story na to basta andyan lang kayo.
Don't forget to vote and comment. I need your feedbacks too.
***

[ 10 CHAPTERVIII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter VIII: The Wedding

Marsh Lahm's Point of View        Nagising ako mula sa sinag ng araw na nangagagaling sa
bintana. Minulat ko ang mata ko at nakaramdam ng pagkahilo. I automatically put my hand on
my head. "Ang sakit." I whispered. Ano bang nangyari kagabi? Ang natandaan ko lang uminom
ako kasama sila Tori. Iminulat ko ng tuloyan mga mata ko at nakita kong hindi ito ang kwarto na
ginagamit ko!
Bigla akong napabangon and moved my feet. May naramdaman akong paa ng isang tao. I am
sure that isn't mine! Oh my goodness. Biglang binundol ng kaba ang dibdib ko at unti-unting
tumingin sa gilid ko. And there's a man sleeping in the bed. Nakatalikod ito sa akin kaya hindi ko
pa makita ang mukha nito.
"A-ano nangyari..." halos hindi ko maintindihan sarili ko at napatampal sa mukha ko. Ano bang
kabaliwaan ang pinasok ko? Bumaba ang tingin ko sa sarili ko at halos malaglag ang panga ko
ng makita kong wala akong suot na kahit ano! Sisigaw na sana ako ng bigla akong napatigil.
Unti-unti kong naalala mga nangyari kagabi. May lalaking humalik sa akin sa bar at...
"AAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!!" Sigaw ko ng maalala kong hinalikan ko siya pabalik hanggang sa
mangyari to. "Aaaahhh!!!" Sigaw ko at tinulak ang lalaking natutulog sa tabi ko. Thud.
"What the fuck is wrong you with you?" Tinabunan ko ng kumot ang buong katawan ko bago
tumingin sa lalaking nahulog sa kama. At mas lalong nalaglag ang panga ko ng makilala ko
kung sino siya.
"Kalev?! Anong ginaga—Paano nangya—Asan ako—." Hindi ko alam kung anong una kong
sasabihin. Gulong-gulo na ako.
"Calm down Marsh. You're in my room." Sabi niya at tumayo buti na lang may suot itong boxer.
"Calm down? Paano ko namang gagawin yun?! May nangyari satin and I barely know you!"
Sigaw ko sa kanya. I studied his face at kahit bagong gising lang napakagwapo niya. Kahit pa
magulo ang buhok niya sa tingin ko mas nadagdagan ang hotness niya. Gusto kong batukan
ang sarili ko dahil sa naiisip ko.
"Don't act like you didn't enjoy what happened last night." He said at unti-unting sumampa sa
kama he's smirking again. A dirty smirk to be precise. Mas lalo kong tinabunan ang sarili ko
gamit ang puting kumot.
"L-lasing ako! Hindi ko alam ang ginagawa ko." I said. Nakikita ko na naman ang asul niyang
mga mata. "You raped me! You took advantage of me." I added at pinanatiling matigas ang
aking mukha dahil kaunti na lang baka ako matunaw sa init ng titig niya.
"I raped you? Now, that's hilarious. You want me too Marsh. Don't deny it." He said and crawled
towards me. At ang likod ko naman ay nasa head board na. "I can read you like an open book."
"Don't come near me! I need my personal space." Sabi ko and a mischievous smiled plastered
on his face.
"We became personal last night baby." He said. I tried to move pero biglang may kumirot sa
pagitan ng mga hita ko. Confirmed: I lost my virginity last night.
"You!" I can't believe this. "You!"
"Yes, I'm the one who penetrated your womanhood I'm the man who made you a woman. And
don't worry." Sabi niya at tiningnan ang dibdib ko pababa sa gitnang bahagi ng hita ko. "I know
you're sore down there kaya hindi na muna kita hahawakan." Bigla akong namula sa sinabi
niya. "Bastos!" Chuckling,  tumayo at sinuot ang pantalon niya. Pinanood ko lang ang ginawa
niya ng maalaala kong hindi ko tinawagan si Marco kagabi! Anong klaseng ate ako? Hinanap ko
ang bag kong ginamit kagabi at nakita kong nasa sahig yun nakakalat. I face palm. Ganun na
ba ako kalasing kagabi para makalimutan ko ang mga nangyari? Tumayo ako at hindi ininda
ang sakit ng ulo ko at ang pagkirot ng gitnang bahagi ng hita ko at dala ko pa din ang kumot.
"Where are you going?" Sabi ni Kalev. Hindi ko siya pinansin at pinulot ang bag ko at nilabas
ang luma kong phone para tawagan si Aling Nelda para kamustahin ang kalagayan ni Marco.
Nakailang ring lang ang phone ko at sa wakas ay sinagot na din ang tawag.
"Marsh mabuti na lang napatawag ka."
"Aling Nelda kamusta po si Marco?" Yan agad ang tanong ko.
"Who's Marco?" Naramdaman kong naglakad palapit sa akin si Kalev pero hindi ko siya
pinansin.
"Natutulog pa ang kapatid mo Marsh. Siguro mabuti pa kung mamaya ka na lang tumawag."
"Ganon po ba? Paki sabi na lang po na mahal ko siya at magii—." Hindi ko na naituloy ang
sasabihin ko ng may kumuha ng phone ko at pinatay ang tawag.
"Kalev!" Singhal ko sa kanya. "Bakit mo yun ginawa." Tiningnan ko siya at siya naman ay
madilim na nakatingin sa akin.
"I said who is Marco?" Malamig niyang sabi.
"Wala kang pakealam." Nilabanan ko ang tingin niya hindi niya dapat malaman na natatakot ako
sakanya. "Boyfriend mo?" Lumapit siya sa akin at ako naman ay humakbang patalikod.
"Kung boyfriend mo siya hiwalayan mo na. Ayoko ng may kaagaw." Hindi ako makapaniwala sa
sinabi niya. "Ano ba pinagsasabi mo? Hindi dahil ikaw ang nakakuha ng virginity k—." And then
it happened again. Pinutol niya ang sasabihin ko ng halikan niya ako. Hindi ako tumugon sa
halik niya dahil mali to. Ayoko ng dagdagan pa ang maling nangyari sa buhay ko. But still he
kissed me with so much force at wala na akong magawa kundi halikan siya pabalik.
"I own you now." Sabi niya magsasalita pa sana ako ng may mapansin ako. It was a tuxedo na
may nakalagay na bulaklak sa gilid. Nakapatong ito sa may sofa at bigla ko na lang naalala. It
was Stacey's wedding! Shit!
Napatingin ako sa orasan na nakalagay sa side table. It's already 8:45 in the morning at ang
pagkaka alam ko 9:30 AM ang start ng kasal.
"Yes, if you're wondering, you have still 45 minutes to prepare." I'm doom.
"There's the comfort room." Turo niya sa isang pinto. "Magsimula ka ng maligo. I'll be back
shortly" sabi niya at nagsuot ng t-shirt. Tatanungin ko sana kung saan siya pupunta pero nanatili
akong tahimik. Pumasok ako sa cr at tinanggal ang kumot na kanina ko pa dala. Tiningnan ko
ang sarili ko sa salamin. Magulo ang buhok ko at ang pula ng labi ko. Nagulat ako ng may
mapula sa balat ko. Sa leeg, near my breast, sa may puson...eto ba ang tinatawag nilang kiss
mark o sa tagalog ay chikinini?! Shit. I cursed silently. Tumapat ako sa shower at nagsimula ng
maligo. Mabuti na lang at may roba dito. Iyon na lang ang ginamit ko para matuyo ang tubig sa
katawan ko. Pagkalabas ako ng comfort room may nakita akong dalawang babaeng nakatayo.
Yung isa may dalang isang kit at hindi ko alam kung ano ang laman at ang isa naman ay may
hawak na silk gown na kulay rose gold.
"Nandito kami Ma'am para ayusan kayo." Sabi nung isa na may kulot ang buhok.
"Utos po 'yun ni Sir Kalev. At ito naman po ang isusuot niyo sa kasal." Sabi niya at ibinaba ang
hawak niyang gown. "Upo kayo Ma'am." Confused, dahan dahan akong umupo sa tapat ng
salamin. Binuksan ng babae yung dala niyang kit at punong puno ng make up ang laman nito.
"Just relax Ma'am. Kami ang bahala sainyo."
AFTER 30 minutes of sitting nakikita ko ang reflection ko sa salamin. Ako ba talaga 'to? I asked
myself. Nakataas ang buhok ko in a messy bun at may natirang hibla ng buhok sa magkabilang
gilid. My makeup is light at simple lang tingnan.
"Ang ganda niyo po Ma'am." Sabi sakin nung may kulot ang buhok at ngumiti sa akin. Hindi ko
alam ang sasabihin ko kaya ibinalik ko na lang ang ngiti sakanya.
"Isuot niyo na po ang gown Ma'am." Sabi sakin nung isa. Tumayo ako lumapit sa may kama.
Bigla akong namula ng may makita nakita akong undies. Pinadala ba to ni Kalev?
"S-sandali lang." I said at kunuha ang undies at sumiretso sa cr para ilagay yun. Lumabas ako
agad ng matapos dahil alam kong late na ako sa kasal ni Stacey! Isinuot ko ang gown na
umabot sa may paa ko. The silk is soft to my skin at napakaganda nito, pati na din ang heels
that compliments the gown's color.
"Let's g..." Biglang pumasok si Kalev sa loob. He's now wearing his tuxedo. He's so handsome
and gorgeous. Parehas kaming natiglan ng makita namin ang isa't-isa.
"Nasa simbahan na sila. Kung ayaw mong mahuli kumilos ka na." He said at tumalikod.
Nagpasalamat muna ako sa dalawang babaeng nagayos saki. Kinuha ko ang phone ko at
patakbong sumunod kay Kalev. Rude. I rolled my eyes.
"Did you just rolled your eyes?" Sabi niya. Hindi ko siya pinansin at mas binilisan ang lakad
kahit kumikirot pa din ang pagkababae ko.
"Don't turn your back at me when I talk, Marsh." He said. Ngayon ko lang ulit narinig ang
pangalan ko mula sa kanya and hell biglang uminit ang paligid. Hinila niya ang kamay ko at
pinaharap sakanya. "B-bitawan mo ako." I said. "Damn those luscious lips of yours." He said
and kissed my lips once again. Licking each sides at naramdaman kong kinagat niya ang
pangibabang labi ko.
"Bakit mo ba ako palaging hinahalikan?" I asked and glared at him. He mused. "Hahalikan kita
kung kailan ko gusto. And baby, I know you like my kisses as much as I do."

😅🤣 🙊
***
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[ 11 CHAPTERIX ]
-------------------------------

Chapter IX: These feelings...

Marsh Lahm's Point of View "Marsh over here!" I heard Tori half shouting and half
whispering. Katabi niya si Elizabeth both wearing rose gold gown pero magkaiba ang design.
Iniwan ko si Kalev at pumunta sa pwesto nila Tori. I can't stand his presence kaya pagkababa
ko pa lang sa kotse niya iniwan ko na agad siya.
"Ang daya mo Marsh. Umuwi ka kaagad kagabi." Naguluhan ako sa sinabi ni Elizabeth. "Nakita
kitang hila ni Kalev, so I assumed umuwi na kayo agad." She added. Bigla akong namula ng
banggitin niya ang pangalang Kalev. Lalo na at may nangyari sa amin kagabi. Tinikom ko ang
bibig ko. "And you Tori." Nakapamewang na sabi ni Elizabeth. "Bigla ka na lang nawala kagabi.
Kaya wala kaming nagawa ni Stacey at umuwi na lang." she whined. I studied Tori's face. She's
guilty.
"Something came up cousin." She laughed awkwardly. Tiningnan ko ang buong venue. May
mga bulaklak sa gilid at may red carped sa gitna. Mayroon ding piano sa may elevated part sa
gilid. Sino kaya ang magpiplay ng piano? I shrugged. Maaliwalas ang paligid. Rose gold and
matte gray ang motif ng kasal. And there stood a guy at the end of the aisle. It was Kelvin na
halata ang kaba sa mukha niya. Nasa likod naman ni Kelvin si Kalev. He's the best man?
Maybe. Nakatayo na din ang priest sa gitna ng table. Bride na lang talaga ang kulang. Puno na
din ang venue ng mga tao.
"Bridesmaid pumila na kayo. Malapit na ang bride." Sabi ng wedding coordinator. Binigyan ako
ni Tori ng isang bouquet ng bulaklak. "Let's go." Sabi ni Elizabeth at pumila kami sa dulo ng
aisle.
Mula doon biglang tumunog ang piano. Bigla akong napatingin kung sino ang nagpiplay ng
piano. It was Kalev! At ang hot niyang tingin habang nagpiapiano. He's an expert. He's playing
Le Onde by Ludovico Einaudi. The piano piece is soft and soothing. What a great choice of
piano piece.
Nagsimulang maglakad ang mga flower girl sa aisle. Dahan dahang sumunod ang ring bearer
kasabay nun ay naglakad na din si Elizabeth. After a second ako naman ang sunod na
naglakad. Bouquet of flowers on my hand and slowly walked in the aisle. Kinalat ko ang
paningin ko hanggang sa magtama ang tingin naming dalawa ni Kalev. He played the piano
very well at biglang bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko. I just stared at him while walking slowly. The
intensity is there and I can't seems to look away. Nang marating ko na ang dulo ako na mismo
ang umiwas.
Pumwesto ako sa designated seat for the bridesmaid. Katabi ko si Elizabeth at si Tori sa kaliwa.
It was Stacey's turn. Lahat kami ay nakatayo at nakatingin sakanya. She's so gorgeous on her
long gown. Nakatingin siya kay Kalev and vice versa. I'm happy for my cousin because finally
she decided to settle down. Halata sa tingin nilang mahal nila ang isa't-isa. They will be a lovely
couple. I'm sure of that. Hindi ko din maiwasan na malungkot pero agad kong pinawi yun.
"YOU may now kiss the bride." Hindi ko namalayan na patapos na pala. Nakita ko na lang sila
Stacey at Kelvin na ngumiti sa isa't-isa bago lumapit ang kanilang mga labi. The crowd cheered.
I watched them. Pero bigla na lang sumagi sa isip ko ang paghalik sa akin ni Kalev. Napahawak
ako sa puso ko. Bakit ba laging bumibilis ang tibok ng puso ko sa tuwing nakikita at naalala si
Kalev?
"Punta na tayo sa reception." Sabi ni Tori. "Saan gaganapin ang reception?" Tanong ko. "Sa
hotel ni Kalev, Marsh. There's a room for big events like this. Siguro doon na lang magpipicture
taking." Sabi ni Elizabeth. Paalis na sana kami ng may lumapit sa aming isang lalaki. Wearing
black tuxedo. Maybe he's 6'0 in height, tanned skin, and charcoal eyes. Bakit halos lahat ng
nakikita ko dito ay mala-Adonis? Ang gwapo ng isang to pero para sa akin mas gwapong
tingnan si Kalev. Hindi ka magsasawang titigan ang kakisigan ni Kalev. Bigla akong
napasimangot sa iniisip ko bakit ba laging sumasagi sa isipan ko si Kalev. It's like he resides
inside my mind.
"Care to introduce me to the beautiful woman besides you Victoria." He said while looking at me
while flashing his boyish smile. He's actually cute at parang model ng colgate kung ngumiti.
Kalev never smiled but he's hot when he chuckled. I never ever saw him smiling but I saw him
smirking very often.
"Hiro!" Sigaw ni Tori at sinalubong ng yakap ang lalaking nangangalang Hiro. "I thought you
couldn't make it." Tori exclaimed with happiness. Yumakap din si Elizabeth sa kakarating na
lalaki. "Bakit naman hindi? Kasal to ni Kelvin hindi ko to mapapalagpas." He said. "Hi." Sabi niya
ng tumigil ang tingin niya sa akin. I don't know what to react kaya ngumiti ako sakanya."H-hello."
He's so cute.
"I'm Hiro by the way, Hiro Hidalgo. Kelvin's cousin." And extended his hands. I gladly accept it.
"Marsh. Marsh Lahm." I said. "You have the most prettiest smile I've ever seen." Sabi niya.
"Hindi ka pa din nagbabago Hiro. Don't bang her, idiot. Iba siya sa mga babae mo." Sabi ni
Elizabeth. "Huwag mo siyang idagdag sa mga babae mo. I love you cousin but no, not Marsh."
Biglang tumaba ang puso ko sa sinabi ni Elizabeth at Tori. Itinaas ni Hiro ang dalawang kamay
niya na para bang susuko na.
"Don't worry cousins, I'm just complimenting her." He said while pouting. Such a cutie. "Playboy
will always be a playboy." Tori said.
"Mukha namang hindi siya playboy." Sabi ko. "Mukha naman siyang mabait." I added. True to
my words, parang ang gaan ni Hiro kasama.
"See? Marsh can see my worth." Sabi niya at tumabi sakin sabay inakbayan niya ako.
Napatawa na lang ako sa ginawa niya. "Marsh my girl, wag kang papalinlang kay Hiro.
Masamang damo yan." It was Tori at akmang kukurutin na niya si Hiro ng biglang may tumikhim
sa likuran. Napatingin kaming apat.
"Keep your hands off her, Hidalgo before I break it for you." And then in one second tinanggal ni
Hiro ang pagkaakbay sa akin. It was Kalev, who looks really hot on his suit. "Stanislaski, so
rude, fucker." He give him a nod at tumingin sa akin. "Why don't you come with me, Marsh."
Sabi ni Kalev, napatigil ako. As much as I want, gusto kong umiwas sakanya. Hindi pa ba sapat
na naibigay ko ang pagkababae ko sakanya?
"Why don't you come with us, Kalev." Sabi ni Tori. "Tutal iisa lang naman ang pupuntahan natin"
sabi pa niya. "That's actually a good idea." Sabi ni Hiro. Wala ng nagawa si Kalev kundi
sumabay sa amin.
I stayed quiet at pinakiramdaman lang ang paligid. Kalev is walking besides me at mas naunang
maglakad sila Tori. Hiro is talking with the two girls nonstop. Pilit ko mang sinasabayan sila Tori
pero pinipigilan ako ni Kalev. "What's wrong with you?" Pagalit kong sabi. Buti na lang at nasa
may unahan sila. Tinaasan niya ako ng kilay. "Ako diba dapat ang magtanong niyan? Why did
you let Hiro touched you!? I told you I own you now." Madilim niyang sabi at tumingin sa akin. I
frowned. "I'm not a property to own, Kalev! Nakuha mo na ang gusto mo sa akin, wala na akong
ibibigay pa sayo." I said. Ano pa bang gusto niya? Pinaharap niya ako sakanya at hinawakan
ang pisngi ko. Halos hindi ako makagalaw sa kinakatayuan ko dahil ramdam ko ang init ng
kamay niya sa pisngi ko. "Hmm. Baka hindi ka pa handa sa gusto ko, baby." He said devilishly.
He called me baby! He actually called me baby! Ano ba talaga ang gusto niya?
"Ano naman yun? At paano mo nasabing hindi pa ako handa sa gusto mo?" I asked him. I'm
curious.
"I can feel it Marsh. You're still not ready. Kaya kung ano man ang gusto ko. It's for me to keep."
Magsasalita na sana ako ng may sumigaw na matinis ang boses. "Kalev my loveeeeee. Bakit
mo ako iniwan sa Manila? Diba I told you naman na isasama mo ako sa wedding ng cousin
mo? Goodness. Kailangan ko pa tuloy maghire ng private investigator para malaman kung saan
to gaganapin." There stood a woman in her 20's. She looked like a doll. With a brown wavy hair
and white skin. Napaka sopistikada niyang tingnan. Wait, Kalev my love? Girlfriend niya? Hindi
ako napaniwalang tumingin kay Kalev. At kahit ang pagkwekwentuhan nila Tori ay naputol.
"Bakit nandito ang babaeng yan?" Rinig kong sabi ni Tori. "Who the fuck invited her?" Hindi ako
nakapagsalita agad ng tumakbo siya papunta sa pwesto namin at bigla na lang niyang niyakap
si Kalev. May girlfriend na si Kalev? Pero bakit niya ako hinahalikan? I felt ashamed of myself.
Bakit biglang nanikip ang dibdib ko? Nakita ko ang pagkagulat sa mukha ni Kalev. This is one of
the rarest time na may nakita akong emosyon sa mukha niya. Biglang nanubig ang mata ko
pero agad kong pinunasan yun. Tumalikod ako sa kanilang dalawa. "Marsh! Marsh!" Tawag ni
Kalev pero hindi ko siya pinansin. Why am I hurting? Nagpasalamat ako at hindi ako sinundan
ni Kalev. Siguro kasama niya ang girlfriend niyang hilaw.
Ilang beses nagring ang phone ko at ngayon ko lang naisip sagutin yun. Humugot muna ako ng
isang malalim na buntong hininga bago sagutin ang tawag.
"Aling N—." Hindi pa ako nakakapagsalita ng magsalita ang kabilang linya.
"Iha si Marco! Sinugod sa hospital." Bigla akong binundol ng kaba.
"Ano po ang nangyari?" Napahawak ako sa noo ko.
"Bigla na lang siyang tumumba habang nakahawak sa may dibdib niya. Sabi niya nahihirapan
siyang huminga. Hindi ko alam ang gagawin ko iha at bigla na lang siyang nawalan ng malay."
Naiiyak na sabi ni Aling Nelda. Ang lakas ng tibog ng puso ko.
"Aling Nelda, pupunta na po ako dyan. Itext niyo na lang sa akin kung saang hospital yan.
Papunta na po ako." Sabi ko at pinanghina sa narinig ko. Anong klaseng kapatid ako para
pabayaan si Marco? Paano ako makakabalik si Manila nito? Nasa labas ako ng hotel ni Kalev.
Tatakbuhin ko ang La Casa para kunin ang gamit ko doon na din ako magtatanong kung paano
makabalik sa Manila. Akmang tatanggalin ko ang heels ng suot ko ng may tumigil na kotse sa
harapan ko. Bumaba ang nagmamay-ari ng kotse. Si Kalev.
"Hop in." Hindi na ako naginarte pa at sumakay sa passenger seat. Isinantabi ko muna ang
nararamdaman ko sakanya. "Kailangan kong makauwi na sa Manila..." sabi ko sa kanya. "Si
Marco..." hindi ko na naituloy ang sasabihin ko ng maluha ako. Hindi ko mapigilan na maluha at
bakit sa kanya ko pa sinasabi 'to? Bakit kay Kalev pa? Kailangan ko ang tulong niya. Siya lang
ang makakapaghatid sakin sa Manila.
***
Any reaction? Hahaha. Don't forget to vote and comment.

[ 12 CHAPTERX ]
-------------------------------

Chapter X: Misunderstanding
Marsh Lahm's Point Of View      "Matulog ka muna. Mahaba pa ang byahe natin." I looked at
Kalev. Umiling ako. Si Marco ang inaalala ko. I can't afford to lose another family member. I
heard him sighed.
"Thank you." Sabi ko na lang. Dahil sa kanya makakarating ako sa Manila agad. Magtetext na
lang ako kay Stacey na hindi ako makakarating sa reception. "So who's Marco?" He asked.
Nagbuntong hininga ako. Hindi talaga niya titigilan iyon hanggang sa hindi siya nakakakuha ng
sagot.
"He's my brother." I said at tumingin sa labas. I never imagined to be with him inside his car.
Pero andito ako ngayon nakaupo sa passenger seat ng kotse niya.
"How about you? Sino yung babae kanina? Girlfriend mo?" Hindi ko mapigilang itanong. I
wanted to sound it cool but it sounds bittersweet in my mouth. I'm acting like a jealous girlfriend
which is not right. Napatingin siya sa akin. "You think I'll make you a bad girl?" He mused. "Don't
laugh. Wala akong panahon para maging kabit mo." I said and rolled my eyes.
"Haneah is not my girlfriend." He simply said. Hindi na ako nagtanong pa tama na sa akin ang
sinabi niya. Baka isipin niya I'm being nosy. Sa tingin ko ito na ang pinaka matinong usapan
naming dalawa. Pinipilit ko ang sarili kong na sa car window lang tumingin. Ayoko siyang titigan.
Nalulunod ako sa mga titig niya.
"You never had a breakfast." He said. I clasp my hands at ipinatong sa lap ko. "Why do you
care?" I asked nonchalantly. Pero mukhang hindi niya 'yun pinansin. "Do you want to eat?"
Umiling ako. I'm not starving. "Kailangan ko kaagad makarating sa Manila." Sabi ko naman. "If
I'm talking to you look at me in the eyes." He said with full of menace. Biglang nagtaas ang
balahibo ko. "Don't ask me what to do. It's my own life." I said flatly.
"Baka nakakalimutan mong ako ang nakakuha ng virginity mo." Napatingin ako sa kanya and
glared at him. Pinapaalala na naman niya sa akin ang nangyari kagabi. "It was a mistake and it
will never happen again." Sabi ko sa kanya. Ayokong ipahalata na sakanya na apektado ako sa
nangyari. I don't want to give him satisfaction. Humigpit ang hawak niya sa steering wheel. "I
beg to disagree because I'm planning to do it again with you." Hindi ako makapaniwalang
napatingin sa kanya. He's so confusing.
"I'm not your toy Kalev. Spare my life sa dami ng problema ko wag ka ng dumagdag pa." Pagalit
kong sabi. Sino ba siya para tratuhin akong ganito? Our eyes met and then he spoke. "Are you
lonely, Marsh?" And then it struck me. I stopped. Am I? Bakit niya tinatanong sa akin yun?
"Every time I played the piano I can see the loneliness in your eyes."
I am lost for words. This is one of the many reasons why I don't want to look in his eyes. He
could read me.
"You don't have the right to say that." I am not lonely. I have Marco. Or I'm just convincing
myself. He just hit the sensitive part in my heart. Nanaig ang katahimikan sa aming dalawa. I'm
not lonely. Keep saying that to yourself, Marsh.
    COBEN'S MEDICAL HOSPITAL
MATAPOS ang apat na oras nakarating din kami sa hospital kung saan nakaconfine si Marco.
Bumaba ako sa kotse niya at tinungo ang main entrance ng hospital. Hindi ko namalayan na
nakasunod pala si Kalev sa akin. Wala na ang black coat niya at natira na lang ang white polo
niya na nakatupi hanggang sa mid arm niya. Naka loose din ang tie niya at nakabukas ng
dalawang butones ng polo niya. Halos lahat ng tao napapatigil at kahit ang mga babaeng nurse
makita lang si Kalev. Hindi lang sila nakatingin kay Kalev kundi pati sakin? Bakit sakin?
"Naliligaw ba sila dito sa hospital?"
"Ang gwapo nung lalaki. Yieehh."
"Saan kaya ang kasal?"
And then I realized suot ko pa din yung rose gold dress na suot ko sa kasalanan ni Stacey at
Kelvin. Bigla akong namula. "Miss, ano ang room number ni Marco Lahm?" Tanong ko sa isang
nurse. May chineck siya sa computer at agad bumaling sa akin.
"Room E305, Ma'am." She said. "Thank you."
Hinanap ko kung saan ang elevator. Pero may humila sa kamay. "Dito ang elevator." Sabi ni
Kalev at hinawakan ang kamay ko. "Room E305 right? Sa East tayo. 3rd floor and room 05."
Balewala niyang sabi. Bakit niya alam yun?
"This hospital is owned by my friend." He added. Mukhang nakita niya ang pagtataka ko kaya
siya na mismo ang sumagot. Nakapasok kami sa elevator pero nakahawak pa din ang kamay
niya sa akin. Pilit kong tinatanggal yun pero mas lalong humihigpit ang pagkahawak niya. "Why
are you still here?" Bigla kong tanong. He shrugged at hindi sumagot. Rude.
Ting. Lumabas kami ng elevator. Tinanggal ko ang pagkahawak ni Kalev sa kamay ko at
napatakbo ng makita ko si Aling Nelda nakaupo sa waiting area.
"Aling Nelda!" Sabi ko. Napatingin siya sa akin. "Ano pong nangyari kay Marco."
"Iha, buti na lang nakarating ka kaagad. Ipinasok siya sa ER at sabi ng doctor hintayin natin ang
magiging resulta." Napaupo ako at napahawak sa noo.
"He's going to be alright." Sabi ni Kalev. Umupo siya sa tabi ko and pats my back. This is the
first time that someone comforted me.
"Nagaalala ako para kay Marco."
"Iha, sino naman yang kasama mo? At mukhang parang kayo ang ikakasal." Sabi ni Aling Nelda
na nakatingin kay Kalev.
"Si Kalev po. K-kaibigan ko." Lumapit sa akin si Kalev. Yung labi niya ay malapit sa labi ko. My
breath hitched. "Friends don't fuck, baby." He said whispering. Mabuti na lang biglang dumating
ang doctor. Tumayo ako at lumapit.
"Sino ang guardian ng pasyente na si Marco?"
"Ako po." I said. "Ano pong nangyari sa kapatid ko?"
"Over fatigue ang kapatid mo Miss. Dapat mas iniingatan mo siya. A child with a sickness called
atherosclerosis should live in a stress free environment. Hindi din dapat pinapagod. Dapat
patuloy ang intake niya ng medicine. At kailangan mong ihanda ang sarili mo Miss. Kailangan
na ng kapatid mo ng surgery." Sabi ng Doctor. Hindi ko mapigilan ang maluha. Oh my God.
Sana maging ayos lang si Marco.
"There's a 70% chance na magiging successful ang operation." He added. "But still gagawin ko
ang lahat para gumaling ang kapatid mo."
"Puwede ko na ba siyang makita?" I asked.
"Yes, yes you may." Pumasok ako sa room 305.
Nakita ko si Marco na nakahiga sa isang single bed at mukhang natutulog. Bigla akong naawa
sa kapatid ko. Ang bata pa niya para maramdaman ang sakit na 'to. Kahit bata pa ang dami ng
iniinom na gamot. I looked down. Puro injections. Hindi makapaglaro. Hindi din makakain ng
mga gusto niyang pagkain. Hindi niya magawa ang mga gusto niya. Naupo ako sa tabi niya at
hinawakan ang maliliit niyang kamay. "Don't worry Marco. Gagawin ni ate ang lahat para
gumaling ka." I whispered.
Someone is patting my back. And that's what I needed right now. Comfort. Dahil sa pabango
niya nakilala ko na agad siya kahit hindi na ako tumingin. Sumandal ako sa kanya and let
myself cry. I don't know why Kalev is here with me basta ang alam ko, ang malinaw lang sa akin
ay...kailangan ko si Kalev ngayon.
***

[ 13 CHAPTERXI ]
-------------------------------
Chapter XI: Whirlwind
Marsh Lahm's Point Of View      Hindi ko alam kung ilang oras na ako nakaupo dito sa tabi ni
Marco. Umuwi na din si Aling Nelda kanina. At si Kalev naman ay umalis dahil may kukunin
lang. May kakausapin daw siya hindi na ako nagtanong at tumango na lang.
Tumingin ako sa wrist watch ko. It's already 8 in the evening. Naalala kong hindi pa pala ako
kumakain simula umaga. Ngayon lang ako nakaramdam ng gutom. Nakagown pa din ako.
Magpapalit sana ako kaso naalala ko na nasa kotse pala ni Kalev lahat ng gamit ko. Bumukas
ang pintuan at pumasok si Kalev na may dalang paper bag at take out na pagkain. Hindi siya
magisa. May kasama siyang lalaki. May suot itong pang doctor na gown. Kasing tangkad niya si
Kalev. He wear glasses at may dalang record book. His hair is unusual. Silver hair? Matangos
ang ilong niya at manipis ang labi. He's so handsome. Parang siyang isang cartoon character
na si Jack Frost. Si Jack Frost na may suot na salamin at imbis na cane ang dala niya kundi
stethoscope. 
"Ililipat ng room si Marco." Iyon ang agad na sinabi ni Kalev. Kumunot ang noo ko. "Bakit?
Mukhang ayos naman siya dito." Ibinaba niya ang dala niya sa bangko at tumingin sa akin.
"Sa VIP room." Sabi ni Kalev na ikinatigil ko.
"VIP room? Alam mo namang hindi ko kayang bayaran kung ililipat si Marco sa VIP room." Hindi
ko nga alam kung saan ako kukuha ng pambayad sa surgery ni Marco pati ba naman sa VIP
room.
"Money is not an issue here." He said coolly at inilagay ang kamay sa magkabilang bulsa ng
slacks niya.
"It does!" Jack Frost fake a cough at yun ang umagaw sa atensiyon naming dalawa ni Kalev.
"Tapos na ba kayong mag-away? Pwede bang ako naman?" Pumasok siya at sinara ang pinto.
"My name is Alexander Coben III and I own this hospital. Magmula ngayon ako na ang magiging
doctor ng kapatid mo which is Marco. Ako ang magiging head surgeon and lastly wag mo ng
isipin ang hospital bill. Kalev and I already talked." He has a deep cold voice. Tumingin ako kay
Kalev, clueless.
"Yan lang ang gusto kong sabihin. Babalik ako in any minute. I'll check my patient first and do
the rounds." Tumango siya kay Kalev bago lumabas sa pinto. Hindi ako makapaniwalang
tumingin kay Kalev.
"Anong ibig niyang sabihin?" I asked.
"Nothing. Wag mo na lang isipin." He said at inilabas ang mga take out foods na dala niya.
"Eat." He said. At pinakita sa akin ang takeout food na binila niya. Isang bucket ng fried chicken
and rice. At may drinks din. Gusto ko sanang kumain dahil kanina pa ako nagugutom pero mas
nanaig ang curiosity ko.
"No. You need to explain first. What was that?"
"Just accept my help Marsh."
"Hindi mo obligasyon si Marco, Kalev. He's my brother at ako dapat ang umiintindi sa kanya. At
hindi ako isang charity case. Kaya kong bayaran ang hospital bill at kung kailangan kong
magtrabaho habang buhay gagawin ko."  I said with full of determination. Hindi dahil mahirap
ang tingin niya sa akin kailangan na niya akong gawing charity case.
"For Pete's sake Marsh. Just accept my help. Wala namang mawawala sayo. Saan ka
makakahanap ng five hundred thousand pesos for the surgery in just one snap."
"Exactly! Five hundred thousand pesos is no joke Kalev. At sino ba naman ako para
pagaksayahan ng pera." Kahit kailan hindi ko siya maintindihan. Nakilala ko lang naman siya sa
La Casa. I may be attracted to him pero hanggang doon na lang yun. Bakit hindi pa ba siya
umalis para maging normal na ulit ang buhay ko. Nakita ko ang pagdilim ng mukha niya. Hindi
ko alam kung bakit in just one second biglang dumilim ang mukha niya. His teeth is clenching.
And he clenched his fists in anger.
"Money is not an issue but life is! Ang pera nandiyan lang pero ang buhay hindi mo na
maibabalik kahit ilang milyon pa ang pera mo. That's why I wanted to help you. For your
younger brother, Marsh. Just accept my help." Sabi niya. Alam kong pinipigilan niya ang sarili
niya upang hindi sumigaw. "Look at your brother, Marsh. Kailangan na niyang maoperahan
agad." Napatingin ako kay Marco na nakahiga sa kama. Maybe Kalev is right. Kailangan na
niyang maoperahan agad. Pagkapanganak pa lang kay Marco mahina na talaga ang puso niya.
Pero kahit kailan hindi siya inoperahan because of the lack of money. Ilang taon ding hindi nag
trigger  ang sakit niya pero patuloy pa din ang paginom niya ng gamot pero ngayon lang ulit siya
nahimatay. Bumaling ang tingin ko kay Kalev na matiim na nakatingin sa akin. "Okay... pero
kailangan pa din kitang bayaran. Magtatrabaho ako para sayo." I said. Hindi naman tama kung
wala akong gawin sa kanya pabalik.
"Be my PA then. Magtatrabaho ka sakin hanggang sa mabayaran mo ang five hundred
thousand pesos. Fair enough, right?" Napatango ako sa sinabi niya. Tsaka ko na lang iisipin
kung paano ko papagkasyahin ang oras ko.
Bigla akong napaisip. Tumingin ako sa mga mata niya.
"Bakit mo ako tinutulongan, Kalev?" I asked suddenly and I saw him tensed.
"Because I'm the one who got your virginity." I face palm at umiwas ng tingin. "Really, Kalev?
Yan lang ba ang sasabihin mo?"
Kinuha niya ang isa pang paper bag na dinala niya kaninaat inabot sa akin. "Here, wear this.
Magpalit ka na. Para kang ikakasal sa suot mo." Hindi na ako nakipaglaban pa at kinuha ang
paper bag. "Thank you." I said at pumunta sa cr. Naalala kong nasa likod nga pala ang zipper
ng dress. Natampal ko ang noo ko. Paano ba to. Bulong ko sa sarili ko. Sinubukan kong ibaba
ang zipper pero hindi ko talaga makaya. Kinagat ko ang pangibabang labi ko. Wala na akong
choice kundi lumabas ng cr. Nakita kong nakaupo si Kalev. Cross legs while reading a book.
Bakit ang hot niya pa ding tingnan? Saan naman nangaling ang libro na yun? Hindi ko na lang
pinansin yun. Sumilip ako. "Kalev..." Nahihiya kong banggitin ang pangalan niya. Binaba niya
ang librong binabasa niya at tumingin sa akin. "What?"
"Can you help me with my gown? Hindi ko mababa yung zipper sa likod." I said in a low voice.
Nakita kong bigla siyang napalunok his blue eyes shouts desire. Binaba niya ang librong
binabasa niya at lumapit sa akin sa cr. "Turn around." He said agad naman akong sumunod sa
kanya. Hinawakan niya ang likod and then unzip the zipper. "Done." His voice is uneven. At
ramdam ko ang init ng kamay niya sa likod ko. "I need to go before I take you again."
"Magpapalit na ako." Nahihiya kong saad at sinarhan ang pinto. Sumandal ako sa pader at
pinakinggan ang lakas ng tibok ng puso ko.
LUMABAS ako ng comfort room suot ang laman ng paper bag. Isang simpleng yellow dress.
"Ate Marsh? Sino siya? Siya ba ang doctor na gagamot sa akin?"
"Marco!" Malakas kong sabi at lumapit sakanya at niyakap siya ng mahigpit. "Ate naiipit ako
hindi ako makahinga." Bumitaw ako sa yakap at hinawakan ang magkabilang balikat. "Ate bakit
nandito ka na? Diba dapat nasa kasalanan ka ni Ate Stacey?" I smiled at him bago magsalita. "I
got worried sick about you, Marco." Sabi ko naman.
"Sorry ate ng dahil sa akin—."
"Ssshh. I told you gagawin ko lahat sayo." Sabi ko naman. Tumingin si Marco sa gilid. "Ate, siya
ba ang doctor ko?" Tanong niya ulit. Nakatingin siya kay Kalev.
"Gagamutin na ba ako? Gagaling na ako? Magagawa ko na ang mga gusto ko?"
"Marco, siya si Kuya Kalev mo. Siya ang tutulong sayo para maoperahan ka." May kumatok sa
pinto at si Kalev na mismo ang nagbukas. Pumasok sa loob si Jack Frost—I mean Alexander
kasama ang dalawang nurse.
"I called him ng nakita kong nagising na ang kapatid mo." Sabi ni Kalev. Nagaalala akong
napatingin kay Marco.
"You can wait outside. Kailangan kong icheck ang vitals ng pasyente." Sabi ni Alexander. "Nasa
labas lang ako ng pinto, Marco." Yan na lang ang sinabi ko at sumunod kay Kalev palabas.
Nakasandal si Kalev sa pader at ako naman ay naupo. Binasag ko ang katahimikan nanaig
saming dalawa. "Thank you, Kalev." I said sincerely. He looked at me and met my gaze. "Thank
you so much." Ng dahil sa kanya maooperahan na ang kapatid ko. Hindi siya nagsalita at bigla
na lang tumalikod at naglakad palayo. At naiwan akong naguguluhan.
Anong problema niya?
***
Don't forget to leave some feedbacks.

[ 14 CHAPTERXII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XII: Little glimpse of him

Kalev Stanislaski's Point Of View     I felt horribly guilty for wanting her. I wanted her more than
I'd wanted a woman in a long time. I'd ever known who could give me an erection by mere
discussion of unzipping a gown. Umuwi ako sa penthouse ko and it's already 3 hours since I left
her in the hospital. She's simple yet beautiful. Kung di ko lang napigilan ang sarili ko, I would
take her more ways than one.
The penthouse is still the same. Paintings in gilded frames hung from each wall. It's clean, not
particularly cheerful just black and white but it wasn't dull. Full of expensive furniture and
accessories yet empty. And the only thing that make the penthouse alive is the grand piano at
the side.
She wanted me, hindi ako manhid para hindi ko 'yun maramdaman. It probably made me a cad.
I came here for business not for sexual affair. Pero sa tuwing pinipikit ko ang mata ko she's
there hunting me. And the idea of Marsh in my bed makes my di*k hardened. I fucking need a
cold shower. Iniisip ko pa lang siya tinitigasan na ako. I took her innocence and I'm so proud of
it. Good God! I want to be inside her. Having a blue balls right not doesn't help at all. I seemed
deadlocked with pent-up emotions of so many kind that make my head spin. Only Marsh could
put an emotion inside me. And I wanted to ask, why.
"So glad you dropped in." A jocular tone of Nikos  shook me immediately.
"What the fuck are you doing here?" I asked. As far as I remembered, nasa La Casa Dela
Lorsiendel pa sila. Umupo si Nikos sa sofa like he own the place. Remind me to change the
password of my penthouse.
"Thanks to you, napauwi ako dito sa Manila ng wala sa plano. And I planned to spend a night
here." He returned, unmannered. I throw my coat in the sofa and headed straight for the kitchen
and grabbed a cold bottle of beer. Popping off the lid and tossed it into the can. I chugged the
beer down, draining half.
"Hinatid ko si Haneah pabalik dito sa Manila. Tori's acting like a brat at pinilit akong ihatid dito si
Haneah. And Tori threatened me if I didn't bring her here hell will open the ground itself. Alam
mo naman ang kayang gawin ng babaeng yun. She has a Stanislaski blood after all. And
Haneah, that girl is all over you, Kalev. Damn lucky bastard." Umiling na lang ako. "I don't give a
fuck about her, Nikos. You know that. I'm only nice to her because her family is one of the
stockholders in my company."
"Being nice isn't in your vocabulary." Naglakad si Nikos at kumuha ng baso. He opened the
whiskey bottle and poured it. He took a sip.
"So, why are you keeping the Marsh woman around?" I nearly choked and my heart begun to
pound in my chest. I cleared my throat at sumandal sa island counter. "Keeping her around?"
Even Nikos noticed that.
"I expected you to left her by now. There's no merit if you keep her. Anong makukuha sakanya,
Kalev. Spare her. Are you using her for something else?" Am I?
"I won't answer that." A perfect simple answer. Yes, I'm planning to keep her around until I know
why am I reacting every time she's near. Maybe I'm using her for my own satisfaction. My own
desires. And my own selfish reasons.
"You're fucked up, man." Hindi makapaniwalang sabi ni Nikos. Maybe I am really fucked up.
"Ohh." He said like he remembered something. "Isn't she the girl? Don't play with fire, cousin.
Baka ikaw din ang mapaso sa apoy na nilalaro mo. I'm off." Sabi niya at umalis ng kusina.
Marsh Lahm... I whispered. Sometimes, it's better if some story is left untold.
I wanted to see her. I needed her. And I can't wait for tomorrow to come. I'll probably see her. I'll
claim her. Because the first time I laid my eyes on her, she became mine.
But for now, I need her phone number.
Marsh Lahm's Point of View
          "Iha, magpahinga ka muna. Pasado alas dose na ng umaga. Ako naman ang
magbabantay kay Marco." Sabi ni Aling Nelda. Bumalik siya kaninang alas onse ng gabi. At
kumuha ng gamit. Nagpapahinga na si Marco at ako naman ay lunod sa iniisip ko. Paano ko
mapapagsabay ang trabaho ko? "Dito na lang po ang magpapalipas ng gabi Aling Nelda. Uuwi
na lang po ako sa apartment mamayang umaga." Sabi ko at biglang nagvibrate ang phone ko.
From: Stacey      It's okay Marsh. And by the way, isasara ko muna ang coffee shop until I'm
away with Kelvin. You know, honeymoon. [/chuckles; Bye!
Napangiti ako sa sinabi ni Stacey. Nagtext ako sakanya kanina saying sorry I can't make it to
the reception. Something came up but didn't speak about Marco. Mabuti na lang naiintindihan
niya.
Hindi niya bubuksan ang Coffee Shop niya means mawawalan ako ng trabaho. Biglang
lumuwag ang pakiramdam ko. Means magkakaroon ako ng oras maging PA ni Kalev. Biglang
nagvibrate ulit ang phone ko. Siguro si Stacey ulit to. I checked my phone and it came from
unregistered number.
From: +63 90********      Still awake?
Hindi ko alam kung sino ang magtetext sa akin ng ganitong oras. Isang tao lang ang pumasok
sa isipin ko.
To: +63 90*******        Kalev?
I bite my lips at hinintay ang reply niya. Why am I acting like a teenager? Like I'm a teen girl
waiting for my soulmate to reply.
From: +63 90*******        Yes. Save my number.
So I did. I add his name to my contacts with the name Kalev S.
To: Kalev S.        Thank you for today. I appreciate it.
I'm thinking twice kung isisend ko ba o hindi. But still clinick ko ang send button. Agad
nagvibrate ang phone ko.
From: Kalev S.        Don't thank me yet. Meet me at the Stanislaski Enterprise. 8 AM. For the
signing of contract.
I rolled my eyes like he could actually see me. So bossy. Kahit sa text hindi pa din mawala ang
pagiging busy niya.
To: Kalev S.       Yes, sir.
Hindi ko maintindihan ang sarili ko pero mas mukhang naexcite ako kung anong mangyayari
mamaya. Naghintay ako ng limang minuto at hindi na siya nagreply. Mukhang nakatulog na
siya. I smiled. This is going to be exciting.
***
Konting pov ni Kalev sana nagustuhan niyo hahaha. Enjoy reading. So ang inisiip ko habang
ginagawa ito ay si Nate Bateman.

[ 15 CHAPTERXIII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XIII: Green for jealousy

Marsh Lahm's Point of View        I wore a pencil cut skirt and a black blouse. Nagsuot din ako ng
2 inches stiletto na matagal ko ng binili. Mabuti na lang at kasya pa din ito sa akin hanggang
ngayon. Nakataas din ang mahaba kong buhok bago ko tingnan ang sarili ko sa salamin. I
looked plain and simple. Gone the beautiful dress I wore, gone the beautiful makeup. I sighed.
Back to business. Naglagay lang ako ng pulbo para mas maayos tingnan. Nakakahiya naman
kung magmumukha akong katulong at mahirap sa kompanya ni Kalev. Kahit ngayon, I need to
be presentable. Sinakbit ko ang bag ko sa braso ko bago lumabas ng pinto. Pero nagulat ako
dahil nakita ko ang land lady na nagmamay-ari ng apartment.
Naka bistida ito at may hawak na sigarilyo sa kaliwang kamay at ang kanang kamay niya ay
nasa bewang niya. Nako po! I prayed. Bakit pa niya ako naabutan?
"Dalawang araw kang wala at buti na lang may plano ka pang magpakita. Aba eh ilang buwan
ka ng hindi nakakapag bayad ng renta sa apartment. Kung wala ka ng planong magbayad
simulan mo ng magbalot balot ng mga gamit at lumayas na dito!" Pagalit niyang turan. Napapikit
na lang ako baka ulit magsalita.
"Manang Florentina." Sabi ko at binanggit ang pangalan niya. "Kalma lang po. Sige kayo
tatanda kayo agad ng maaga niyan." Pabiro kong sabi at sinabayan ng pabirong tawa. Sana
makalusot.
"Magbabayad naman po ako. May bago na po akong trabaho. Magtatrabaho po ako sa
Stanislaski Enterprise." Biglang lumiwanag ang mukha niya ng mabanggit ko ang pangalan ng
kompanya ni Kalev.
"Paano ka nakapasok sa kompanya na yan? Balita ko mahirap makapasok dyan ah? Alam mo
ba—." Hindi ko na siya pinatapos at yumuko ng bahagya at nagpaalam na aalis na. Baka
malate pa ako. Pati pag bayad sa apartment nawawala na sa isipan ko. 'Di bale sa tingin ko
naman kaya ko ng bayaran to. Kailangan ko lang magtrabaho.
TINIGNAN ko ang pagkalaki-laking kompanya ni Kalev Stanislaski. Hindi na ako magtataka
kung milyon milyon na pera ang pumapasok sakanya araw araw. Pumasok ako sa loob at
tinungo ang front desk.
"Excuse me Miss, saan ang office ng CEO?" I asked politely. She smiled back and then
answered. "It's on the 9th floor Ma'am."
"Thank you." Yun na lang ang sinabi ko at hinanap kung saan ang elevator. I step inside and
check my wrist watch. Limang minuto na lang at maga-alas otso na ng umaga. Kung hindi ba
naman traffic kanina dapat nandito na ako.
Kaya binilisan ko ang pagkababa sa sinabing floor at bago pa ako makatingin sa dinadaanan ko
may nabunggo akong isang tao. Muntik na akong mahulog mabuti na lang nahawakan niya ang
braso ko at hinila palapit sa kanya. Kung hindi baka nakasalampak na ako sa sahig ngayon at
mukhang katawa-tawa. Ang bilis ng tibok ng puso ko.
"I'm sorry about that. Hindi kasi ako tumitingin sa nilalakaran ko." Sabi ng nakabunggo sa akin.
He has a a goofy smile at parang ngumingiti ang inang araw sa akin. Nakahawak pa din siya sa
magkabilang braso ko at magkalapit pa din kaming dalawa. Awkward.
"Puwede mo na akong bitawan." I said. Realization hits him. "Ohh. Sorry again." He said at
tinanggal ang pagkahawak sa akin. I stepped backward at doon ko lang nakita ng maayos ang
mukha niya. Dark hair, squared jaw, natural red lips, and sinfully pointed nose.
"By the way, my name is Draco Lockhart." He said at inilihad ang kamay niya. Tinanggap ko
naman yun. "Marsh Lahm." Sabi ko at ng mapansin ko ang mamahaling wrist watch niya  it's
already 8:05 AM. "Gottago. Late na ako." Aalis na sana ano ng mahawakan niya ang braso ko.
"Wait, I just want to ask you out for a date. Isipin mo na lang na it's my way for saying sorry."
Iiling na sana ako to say no. Ngayon lang niya ako nakita at gusto na niya agad makipag date? .
"And I don't take no for an answer. I'll wait you at the lobby, Marsh." He said with a wink at
pumasok sa loob ng elevator. Weird. I mumbled.
Naglakad ako at tiningnan ang buong paligid. Wow. Marble tiles and the walls are made of
glass. May mga expensive paintings din and suchs. May isang babaeng nakaupo at nakatapat
sa isang table. I assumed she's the Ceo's secretary. Lumapit ako doon and ask.
"Where's your boss?" Tinapunan niya ako ng tingin at tiningnan ako mula ulo hanggang paa.
Like she's checking me out.
"May appointment ka ba kay Mr. Stanislaski?"
"Pinapunta niya ako dito, Miss." sabi ko. Mukhang kailangan pa talagang magset mg
appointment para makausap si Kalev.
"Wait, are you Miss Marsh Lahm?" She asked. Tumango ako. "Pumasok na lang kayo Miss.
Kanina pa kayo hinihintay ni Sir Stanislaski." Tumango ako at tinuro niya ang glass door. Ako?
Hinihintay ni Kalev? Sinunod ko ang instruction ng secretary ni Kalev at binuksan ang glass
door. Akala ko makikita ko na ang mismong office ni Kalev pero nagkamali ako. There's a
pathway at kailangan ko pang maglakad ng kaunti. And there, I saw his office. Ang laki ng office
niya. Black and white ang kulay. May sofa set at table niya na may nakalagay na Kalev
Stanislaski—CEO. Nakita ko siyang nakatalikod at nakaharap sa glass wall at kitang kita sa
labas ang mga nagtataasang buildings. May pagkataon akong titigan siya. He's wearing a suit
and his aura is really intimidating.
"You're late." Nagtaasan ang balahibo ko sa lamig ng boses niya bago humarap sa akin.
Napatingin ako sa wrist watch ko. Sampung minuto akong late sa usapan. Not a good
impression.
"I'm sorry." Naipikit ko ang mata ko. Nakita ko siyang palapit sa akin. "I don't tolerate late
people." Sa isang iglap nasa tapat ko na siya. Naamoy ko ang pabango niya. So manly. I can't
stop myself to sniff him. Nakakahiya. Sabi ko sa isip ko dahil baka nakita niya akong inaamoy ko
siya. "I'll accept your sorry but make sure you won't do it again." Napatango ako sa sinabi niya.
"Or else I'll punish you." Naguluhan ako sa sinabi niya.
"Punish? In what way?" I asked. He's now looking in my lips. "This way." And his lips touches
mine. He took me by surprise. Hinalikan niya ang labi ko ng walang bukas. He kissed me
roughly. And the last thing I want to do is to moan. But I did! He's the one who stop the kiss.
"Why did you do that?" Naguguluhan kong sabi. He don't have the right to kiss me every time he
wants! He didn't answer instead lumakad siya patungo sa table niya at may kinuha. At ako
naman ang nanatiling nakatayo pinagmamasdan siya. "Have a seat." He said formally. Agad
naman akong umupo sa sofa at tinikom ko ang bibig ko. Kinuha niya ang isang kulay navy blue
na folder at ipinatong sa table katapat ko.
"Sign this contract." He said. May fountain pen siyang hawak at ibinaba yun katabi ng navy blue
folder may nakalagay na logo ng Stanislaski Enterprise. Hinawakan ko ang fountain pen at
binuksan ang folder. Nakalagay doon ang contract. I put my name and my signature. No need to
read the contract. I trust Kalev with the legal terms. 
"Kelan ako magsisimula?" I asked at inabot sa kanya ang navy blue folder. Tinanggap niya yun
at umupo siya sa swivel chair niya.
"Now." He said coolly. "That will be your table." Turo niya sa may kanan at nakita ko may extra
table and chair doon. "You'll follow all my orders. As my PA, know all my schedule. Remind me
everyday. Ikaw din ang mag-aayos ng mga schedule ko. Every gatherings dapat kasama. As of
now, sort all my files from A to Z." Turo naman niya sa sandamakmak na files sa may kaliwa.
Tumango ako at pumwesto sa pinapagawa niya at siya naman ay di ko alam kung may
pinepermahan o may binabasang proposal. Maybe both? Anyway, tiningnan ko mga files na
isosort ko. Masyadong madami to kaya agad kong sinimulan.
IT'S ALREADY 12 in the afternoon. At nasa letter L pa lang ako. Hindi ko akalain na ganito
karami to. Palihim akong tumingin kay Kalev. Kanina pa siya nakaupo sa swivel chair at hindi
man lang tumatayo. Wala bang break time dito? I asked myself. But it's already 12. Ayos lang
kaya kung yayain ko na siyang kumain? Well, it's not a bad move. I'll try asking him. Nagugutom
na din kasi ako.
Tumayo ako at lumapit sa kanya. "Sir? Kelan ka po maglalunch?" Tumaas ang tingin niya sa
akin.
"I thought you'll never ask. Drop the Sir, call me Kalev." Sabi niya at ibinaba ang fountain pen
niya. Tumayo siya at inayos ang pagkabutones ng coat niya.
"Po? Pero Sir, boss ko kayo." Bakit hindi siya nagpapatawag na Sir? Such a weird guy.
"Just follow my order, Marsh. Let's go." Sabi niya. "Saan tayo pupunta?" Tanong niya. Di siya
makapaniwalang napatingin sa akin. "Lunch." He said as a matter of fact. Wala na akong
nagawa kundi sumabay sa kanya. Pagkalabas namin napatingin sa amin ang sekretarya niya
mukhang nagtatanong kung bakit magkasama kami ngunit di man lang siya tinapunan ng tingin
ni Kalev at nagpatuloy maglakad. Nasa likod lang niya ako at nakayuko. Bigla akong nabunggo
sa isang matigas na bagay...
"Tumabi ka sa akin habang naglalakad." Bigla palang tumigil si Kalev at sa nabangga ako sa
likod niya. "O--okay." I said at agad pumwesto sa gilid niya. "Better." At sumakay kami sa
elevator.
HALOS lahat ng empleyado ay napapatingin sa dinadanaan namin ni Kalev. Maybe they're
curious because I'm with him, walking side by side. Nobody dare to gossip. At sa tuwing
lumalakad kami sila na ang nagbibigay daan. Siguro takot sila kay Kalev? Sino bang hindi. He
holds too much power. Hanggang sa madaanan namin ang lobby.
"Marsh, buti na lang bumaba ka. I've been waiting you here. So, date?" It was Draco. Yung
bumangga sa akin dati.
"What are you doing here in the lobby, Lockhart?" Boses yun ni Kalev. Naniningkit ang mata
niya at nakatiim ang bagang. Galit ba siya? Ang sama kasi ng tingin niya kay Draco.
"Oh hey Kalev. I didn't see you there. Niyaya ko kasi makipagdate si Marsh." Simpleng sagot ni
Draco at ngumiti sa akin ng pagkatamis-tamis. Bumaling ang tingin niya sa akin na parang
nagtatanong kung bakit kami nagkakilala.
"Nakita ko  siya kanina sa 9th floor. Maybe papunta siya sa office mo. Something happened and
I just want her to go out with me." Si Draco na ang nagsalita.
"It's a no." Kalev said using his cold voice. Bakit sila naguusap na parang wala ako dito?
"Pardon?" Sabi ni Draco. "You are not allowed to date her. So go back to work Lockhart." Sabi ni
Kalev na may madilim ang mukha. Humingi ako ng paumanhin kay Draco bago ulit sumunod
kay Kalev.
"What the fuck was that? Hindi kita tinanggap dito para makipag date sa mga empleyado ko." I
frowned. "I didn't even say yes." Sabi ko pabalik sakanya.
"From now on you are not allowed to date anyone. Unless it's me!" Pagalit niyang sabi at
pumasok sa kotse niya. Naiwan akong nakatayo sa may entrance ng kompanya na
naguguluhan.
***

[ 16 CHAPTERXIV ]
-------------------------------

XIV: Lunch date

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View
I'm sitting in front of him inside the restaurant. Little did I know I'm being dragged inside the
restaurant with Kalev. Hawak ko ang menu card samantalang si Kalev prenteng-prenteng
nakaupo habang nakatingin sa akin. Iniiwasan kong mapatingin sa kanya at baka malunod na
naman ako sa kulay asul niyang mga mata. The whole restaurant is full of rich people. Siguro
kailangan mo pa ng reservation para makakain lang dito. The place is awesome, halos lahat ng
makikita sa loob ay silver and gray. The chairs is not just an ordinary chair. It's a Victorian chair!
"Your order Madame?" Tanong ng waiter na kanina pa nakatayo sa may right side namin.
Binalik ko ang paningin ko sa menu card at kumunot ang noo. Puro ginto ang presyo ng mga
pagkain. Siguro pati tubig may kailangan pang bayaran. Hindi ko din alam kung paano
ipronounce ang mga pagkain na nakalagay sa menu.
"What's wrong, Marsh? Umorder ka na ano pa bang hinihintay mo?" It was Kalev with a hint of
sarcasm in his voice. What a gentleman. I whispered at nakakasigurado akong hindi niya
maririnig yun. "Ikaw na lang kumain. Masyadong mahal ang pagkain dito." Sabi ko at binaba
ang menu card. Tumingin sa akin ni Kalev, amused.
"Hindi naman ako gutom. In fact, busog pa ako." My stomach growled. Good God bakit ngayon
pa? Nakakahiya. Napatampal ako sa noo ko. I looked at Kalev and amusement is written all
over his face. Bumaling siya sa waiter "2 orders of your specialty for today. And 1 bottle of the
best wine." Sinulat yun ng waiter and then he excused his self.
"Hindi pala gutom, huh?" He said mockingly. Tinapunan ko siya ng tingin. "Ikaw ba namang
magsort ng files mula A to Z. Files mula 2009 hanggang 2017. At puro alikabok pa." I pouted my
lips. At bigla kong naalala kung ano ang posisyon ni Kalev. Gusto kong batukan ang sarili ko.
Baka nakakalimutan mong boss mo yang kausap mo, Marsh. My subconscious said.
"Are you complaining, Marsh?" The way he pronounce my name, there's something but I can't
figure it out. Parang matagal na niyang binabanggit ang pangalan ko. My name is familiar to his
tongue and mouth. Ano ba tong iniisip ko? Simula ng makilala ko si Kalev Stanislaski nalilito na
ang isip ko. "I'm not complaining, Sir." Sabi ko. Dumilim ang mukha niya. Ano na naman ba ang
ginawa kong mali?
"What did I tell you? Drop the Sir and call me by my given name." He said while looking at my
eyes intensely. "Why? Boss kita at normal lang na tawagin kitang Sir. At hamak na empleyado
lang ako na nagtatrabaho sayo." Sabi ko naman. Hindi naman tamang tawagin ko lang siya na
Kalev. He's my boss after all.
"Exactly. I'm your boss, you follow me. Just do what I told you to do. No arguments." Sabi niya.
"And be yourself when you're around me. You're holding yourself, Marsh. Let it out." Hindi ako
makapaniwalang tumingin kay Kalev.
"Do you read minds? H-how—I mean, are you Edward Cullen—." Tanong ko. He leaned closer.
"I'm no vampire, baby. I just can read you like an open book. Holding yourself and you're
isolated." That "baby" thingy again. My heart is pounding off to my chest. Hindi na naman ako
makapagsalita sa harapan niya. Everything he said is true. I'm holding myself. I can't afford to
be like that. So free. So full of life. No...no! Kalev can't revive what I buried years ago. He's so
unfair. How can he read me while every time I looked at him wala akong makita kundi sariling
repleksiyon ko lamang.
"Stop staring at me like that." Sabi ko sakanya. Baka kaunti na lang at matunaw na ako. Like an
ice cream if you put it under the sun.
"Like what? Like you are the most beautiful woman in the whole restaurant?" Halos malaglag
ang panga ko sa sinabi niya. How can he be so calm when saying those words? And why am I
reacting like this? Only Kalev Stanislaski can make my heart flutter. He's so mysterious and
intriguing.
"You're so confusing, Si--I mean Kalev. Why are you complimenting me?" I asked. I need an
answer from him. Dahil sa tuwing sinusubukan kong magtanong bigla na lang siyang aalis.
"Because you are really beautiful, Marsh. So damn beautiful and I couldn't take my eyes off you.
I want you." Halos mahulog ako sa kinauupuan ko. His eyes glitters. I don't know what to react.
"I fucking want you. Taste you. Lick every inch of your body. I want to fuck you." He's starting to
talk dirty. But instead of disgust I can feel my nipples hardened and feel a hot sensation through
my thighs. Why am I acting strange. I should slap him. I should walk out from the restaurant. I
should leave him right now. But why do I choose to say and hear more of his voice. His hot
husky voice. "Why me, Kalev? There's a lot of pretty woman out there. Richer than me. Prettier
than me. Bakit ako?" Matiim kong tanong at sinalubong ang mata niya. His eyes is shouting
desire.
"Simple because you are Marsh Lahm. Wala akong pakealam sa ibang tao, darling. All I want is
you, bury my face between those legs and fuck you using my tongue." Something just explode
inside me. "S-stop." Sabi ko at di mapakali sa inuupuan ko. I feel uncomfortable all of a sudden.
"Quit playing games on me, Kalev. I hate playing."
Inilapit niya ang mukha niya sa akin at hinawakan ang buhok kong tumatabon sa mukha ko and
tucked it in the back of my ears. Naramdaman ko ang pagtama ng mainit niyang kamay sa may
pisnge ko. Lalo akong napatigil sa ginawa niya. I can't move. He cupped my cheeks using his
hands and caressed my cheeks using his thumb. "Be honest with me, sweetheart, are you wet?
Are you soaking down there? Do you want some help?" He said slowly. I gulp and automatically
bite my lips. It's my mannerisms when I'm nervous. The whole restaurant is air conditioned pero
bakit biglang uminit. "I...don't know...you want to check it for yourself?" Bigla ko na lang nasabi.
Nakita ko kung paano sumingkit ang mga mata niya. His icy blue eyes is blazing with fire. He
flashed his dirty smirk and withdrew his hands off me ng biglang dumating ang waiter.
"Here's your order Madame, Sir. Enjoy your meal." The waiter said as he served the food. At
may nilagay ang waiter na bote ng wine sa lamesa. Nakahinga ako ng maluwag at unti-onting
nawawala ang init. Binuksan niya ang bote ng alak at nagsalin sa dalawang kopita.
Drinking in the middle of the daylight?
"Want some?" He offered. Umiling ako. "No thanks, last time I checked nung uminom ako ng
alak hindi ko alam kung anu-ano ang pinagagawa ko." I heard him chuckled. I saw him how he
flicked his fork while eating the grilled meat. Flicking the fork, seductively. Binaba ko ang kutsara
na hawak ko pati na din ang tinidor. I looked at him before sighing. It's now or never.
"Ano ba talaga ang gusto mo, Kalev? Dahil uunahan na kita, wala kang makukuha sa akin." I
asked without blinking at titig na titig sa kanya. I saw him smirk. "Kung hindi ka nakinig sa akin
kanina hayaan mong ulitin ko. I want you. I want you in my bed again. Moaning my name while I
enter your nakedness. While I bury my c0ck inside you and you begging for more."
Confirmed: I'm really wet down there.

😅
***
Ahmmm... any reactions will do

[ 17 CHAPTERXV ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XV: Drugs

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
"Table number 6, Marsh. Dalian mo kanina pa nila hinihintay ang order nila." Sabi ng
barista sa akin. Tumango ako at nilagay sa tray ang tatlong baso ng alak na pinaghalo niya. It's
already 11 PM at sa bar naman ako nagtatrabaho. Kanina pa din ako naglalakad paikot-ikot sa
buong bar at ramdam ko na ding sumasakit ang kamay at paa ko.
Biglang pumasok sa isip ko ang nangyari kanina sa restaurant. We just eat in silence at bumalik
sa opisina. Leaving me sexually frustrated. I arched an eyebrow. When did I become a sex
starve woman? Oh God. Bless my soul for being a bad girl lately. I pushed into the crowd.
Walang pinagbago ang bar. Madami pa ding mga tao, wearing expensive clothes, wasting their
money on alcohol.
"Good evening ladies and gentleman. So let me introduce myself, I'm Trevor Dmitri, my band
and I will be joining you tonight." Napatingin ako sa may elevated stage. Kaya pala may mga
instruments doon. Napatingin ako sa nagsalita na nangangalang Trevor Dmitri. I knew that guy!
Sila ang bandang tumugtog ng pumunta kami nila Tori sa bar sa La Casa. What a small world.
The crowd cheered. Nagpatuloy lang akong hanapin ang table 6 para maibigay na ang order
nila. And then he started singing.
She paints her finger with a close precision He starts to notice empty bottles of gin And takes a
moment to assess the sinShe'd paid for
I know that song. It was Ballad of Mona Lisa by Panic! At the Disco.
Say what you meanTell me I'm rightAnd let the sun rein down on me Give me a signI want to
believe
"Ano na naman ba ang ginagawa ni Trevor dito? Bakit kung nasaan ako nandoon din siya?" I
heard a familiar voice said.
"It's a pure coincidence. Wag mong isipin na sinusundan ka ni Trevor. Masasaktan ka lang
cousin. And by the way, why are you so affected? Ang buong akala ko wala ka ng gusto sa
kanya?"
"I never liked him in the first place."
Lumapit ako sa dalawang babaeng naguusap. At ibinaba ang order nila sa table.
"Here's your order Ma'am." At ibinaba ko ang tatlong baso ng alak.
"Marsh?" Napatingin ako ng sabihin niya ang pangalan ko. Because the lights are so dim hindi
ko masyadong makita ang mukha niya. But her voice is somewhat familiar. "Elizabeth?" I
answered back. Tumayo siya at lumapit sa akin at bigla akong yinakap. "Marssshhhhh! I never
thought I'll be seeing you here."
"Marshhh." It was Tori's turn to shout. At kahit malakas ang boses niya hindi siya nakakuha ng
atensiyon ng iba dahil nakafocus ang lahat ng tao sa banda na tumutugtog sa stage.
"Bigla ka na lang nawala sa La Casa. I've been asking for your number kay Stacey kaso busy
siya sa honeymoon niya. So anong ginagawa mo dito?"
"May emergency na nangyari kaya kailangan kong umalis agad. At dito ako nagtatrabaho." Sabi
ko sa kanilang dalawa. Bigla kong nakita ang manager na mukhang may hinahanap. Baka
makita niya ako ditong nakikipagusap. Mahigpit pa namang ipinagbabawal ang pakukwentuhan
tuwing nasa trabaho. "I'll talk to you later guys. Kailangan ko na munang magtrabaho, baka
mapagalitan ako ng manager." I said and then smiled. Gusto ko pa sana silang makausap kaso
kailangan ko munang magtrabaho.
"Marsh, wait! Anong oras ang tapos ng shift mo dito?" Tanong ni Tori. "1 AM ang tapos ng shift
ko. Why?" Tanong ko sa kanila at kinuha ang tray ng pinaglagyan ko ng alak kanina. "We'll wait
you here, Marsh. Samahan mo kami ni Elizabeth magparty pretty please." She said and flashed
a cute smile like a kid asking for a candy.
"But—." Bibisitahin ko pa sana si Marco sa hospital pagkatapos kong magtrabaho but Tori cut
me off.
"And we don't accept no for an answer, Marsh." She said and then pleaded. "S-sige. Pero baka
ano isipin nila." Sabi ko at napatingin sa mga katrabaho ko sa bar. Isa din ito sa mga iniisip ko.
"We don't care what they think pero kung hindi ka komportable lilipat tayo ng bar." She said and
then wink. I smiled. "Okay. Wait me then." I said and then winked back at her. "Yay~ kasama ulit
natin si Marsh. I'm so excited." Rinig kong sabi ni Elizabeth. "Balik muna ako sa trabaho."
Woah, Mona Lisa You're guaranteed to run this town Woah, Mona Lisa I'd pay to see you frown
ISINABIT ko sa hanger ang uniform ko at isinara ang locker ko ng makapagpalit ako ng damit.
I'm just wearing a high waisted pants at shirt na naka tucked-in.
"Bye Marsh, ingat ka sa byahe." Rinig kong sabi ni Janice sa akin na nagpapalit ng damit.
Ngumiti ako sa kanya. "Ikaw din, Janice. Bye." Sabi ko at lumabas ng locker room. Hinanap ko
sila Tori. Madami pa ding tao at halos nadadagdagan at hindi nababawasan. Kaya nahirapan
akong hanapin sila Tori at Elizabeth.
"Marsh over here!" Rinig kong may sumigaw sa pangalan ko. It's none other than Tori na may
hawak na alak at sumasayaw sila sa dance floor. Tumigil sila sa kakasayaw at lumapit sa akin.
"Let's go?" I nodded my head. Halos 2 hours din nila akong hinintay and I wonder kung
nakailang alak na sila, but seems they're fine at parang wala pa silang nainom na alak.
30 MINUTES ang layo ng Topless Bar sa bar na pinuntahan namin. Nasa labas pa lang kami
pero rinig na rinig na namin ang lakas ng tugtog mula sa loob at sigawan ng mga tao. Pleasure
Me Bar. Basa ko sa neon lights na nakalagay sa may taas ng entrance. Pleasure Me Bar?
Weird.
Nakita ko ang pagkakunot ng noo ni Elizabeth.
"Why here, Tori? Alam mo namang—"
"Don't worry Elizabeth. Walang mangyayari, okay? Let's go." Sabi naman ni Tori. Sumunod lang
ako sa kanila papuntang loob at halos malaglag ang panga ko ng makita ko ang tao sa loob.
There's a girl dancing in the mini stage at halos wala siyang saplot sa katawan. Men cheered as
they throw money in front of the girl. Sa kabilang gilid naman may babaeng nakahiga sa taas ng
lamesa nakataas ang damit niya at natatabunan na lang ay ang breast niya may sliced lemon
na nakaipit sa kanyang labi. Maraming tao ang naghihiyawan.
"What are they doing?" Tanong ko sa kanila at nakatingin pa din sa babaeng nakahiga sa mesa.
"Body shot. This place is really a sinful place but fun." Sagot ni Tori. May isang lalaki na
pumwesto sa taas ng babae hindi na ako tumingin sa kanila.
"Mojito please. Make it three." Sabi ni Elizabeth sa barista ng bar. Umupo kami sa high stool.
The guy is so creepy may tattoo siya sa buong braso niya and he's big and bulky. "Wait up
beautiful lady. One of you will be lucky tonight." Is it just me? O napansin din nila Tori at
Elizabeth ang lalaki. He just flashed a wicked smile. Ngiting hindi mapapagkatiwalaan. And what
does he means one of us will be lucky? He served the drinks right away.
"In a count of three sabay nating iinumin ito." Sabi ni Tori. "Three." Agad ng sabi ni Elizabeth at
kahit ako ay agad ininom ang alak. Why does it taste like this? O ganito ba talaga ang lasa nito?
At bakit biglang umiinit ang paligid. Isang baso pa lang naman ang ininom ko.
Kalev Stanislaski's Point of View It's already 2 AM and I've been working my ass off sa
opisina ko sa penthouse. Brandy at the right side at habang binabasa ko ang reports. I'm
making myself busy because Marsh Lahm is knocking inside my system. Kung hindi ako
nakapagpigil, I'm going to fuck her at the bathroom of the restaurant. Having sex on public
places is one of my fantasy. Fuck. Biglang sumikip ang pantalon ko. I need a diversion. I fucking
need one.
My phone rang and fished my phone inside my pocket. A call from Victoria. One of my
hardheaded cousin. I pinched the bridge of my nose before answering.
"What do you need? This better be important Victoria." I said at sumandal sa swivel chair. I can
hear faint noises from the background.
"Cousinnnnn, help us please." I heard her voice. What a trouble maker. "Where are you?" I
suddenly ask. It's already late but still nasa labas pa din siya ng bahay? So unladylike.
"We're at the Pleasure Me Club. And I badly need your help. I'm already tipsy and I can't drive
anymore. And there's one problem." I frowned.
"We?" So she's with someone else.
"Yes we, I'm with Elizabeth and I think they put sex drug sa alak na ininom ni Marsh." Bigla
akong napatayo sa narinig ko.
"Marsh?" I asked making sure I didn't hear it wrong.
"Yes, Marsh. And I think the drug is already working."
Fuck!

❤️
***
Sooo yeahh. Keep on supporting guyseu. Thank you so much. [/send virtual kisses;

[ 18 CHAPTERXVI ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XVI: Surrender

Kalev Stanislaski's Point of View
        I'm waiting across the street from the 11th Avenue. The block was quiet, the only sound
was the faint beat of music coming from inside the bar. A large neon sign said: Pleasure Me Bar
"They're inside that bar. I already texted Elizabeth. She told me they're going outside the bar."
Trevor  Dmitri said. Kasama ko siya sa pagpunta ko dito. I don't give a damn why he's here.
Maybe because of Victoria—my hardheaded and trouble maker cousin is here. My concern here
is Marsh. Nothing else. I looked down the street. "I'm going inside the bar." I said. What took
them so long? Ramdam ko na nakasunod si Trevor sa akin.
We entered the bar, and most number of people paid us attention. Maybe wondering why a high
profile bachelor man who owns the Topless Bar is here. But I don't give a fuck.
Of course, there were topless dancers. The girl took off her top and danced. Marsh's curves is
better than her. I tsked. Kahit sinong lalaki hindi titigasan kung manonood ng sumasayaw na
babae na halos walang saplot. I'm no saint but I think Marsh is the only girl who can make my
d!ck hardened. Favoritism? Yes.
"Fancy meeting you here, Stanislaski. Naligaw ka yata ng palasyo. My crews told me that Kalev
Stanislaski is here inside my bar. I'm here to make sure you're really here." I tap his shoulder.
"I'm here for something else, Salazar." I said at hinanap ng mata ko si Marsh. I saw them near
the barista. Sitting on the high stool. "Sinusundo ko lang sila." I said at tumingin sa pwesto nila
Victoria. "Ohh the three girls. Babalik na ako sa office ko. And by the way, enjoy the night,
Stanislaski. You know what to do in order the drugs takes off." He said with double meaning.
Raven Salazar is the owner of  this bar and a good friend of mine. This bar is for pleasure
seekers. At hindi na ako magtataka kung bakit may sex drugs dito. There's a tradition here. If
you order three glasses of any drinks they'll slip the drugs in one glass. It's a small capsule and
dissolved easily in alcohols. Tumalikod na siya at ako naman ay dumiretso sa pwesto nila
Victoria. There's also a sex vaccine pero mas malala ang effect kesa sa sex drugs. It's illegal
but Raven Salazar don't give a damn thing.
"What the fuck are you doing here?!" I hissed at Victoria. Shock is visible on her face. Not
because I'm fucking angry but because Trevor is with me. "You better explain this tomorrow
Victoria." I said seriously at masamang tumingin sa kanya. "If you're here to party don't bring my
girl with you!" My jaw is clenching. "What if something bad happen with the three of you!" Hindi
ko na mapigilang sumigaw. But no one paid us attention because they're too busy with their own
business. Good thing dahil ayokong maging laman ng tabloid bukas.
"Bukas mo ng pagalitan si Tori. She's drunk at wala ng pakialam sa sasabihin mo. Why don't
you just bring Marsh back home?" Elizabeth said. Napatingin ako kay Marsh. She looked
wasted and drunk. I hold her shoulders and carry her. "Ikaw na bahala sa kanila Trevor." I said
and looked at his side. Without saying a word he nodded. "I'm still not done with you young
lady." I said and left them. Carrying Marsh with me. Ipinasok ko siya sa passenger seat at
sumakay ako agad sa driver seat.
THE CAR ride is a fucking torture. "So hot..." rinig kong sabi ni Marsh sa tabi ko. Mas nilakasan
ko ang AC ng kotse. "Ang init..."
"Are you planning to kill us both?!" I said with I saw her removing her shirt. I gulped. I can now
see her cleavage. And her breast na natatabunan na lang ng brassiere niya. Fuck. Patuloy ako
sa pagdadrive. Temptation is everywhere. I can't fucking concentrate. Mabuti na lang at
madaling araw wala halos sasakyan sa main road. And my car is fully tainted. "Hmmm..."
napalingon na naman ako sa pwesto ni Marsh. She's moaning and removing her pants. Her
hands roamed all over her body hanggang sa makarating sa malusog niyang dibdib. She's
massaging her own breast! The drugs...it's already working on her body. It can turn you to a sex
starve person and all you want to do is to have sex. Sex. And the only thing in order the drugs
takes off is to have sex with her. It's all about sex. Sumikip ang pantalon ko. I'm already hard as
fuck. Bumagal din ang takbo ng kotse. Hindi ako makapag concentrate. Lumilipad ang isip ko.
"Ohhh... fuck me. Ohh pleasee ughh." That's the last draw. Itinigil ko ang kotse ko sa tabi at
napatingin kay Marsh sa passenger seat. One of her hand is on her breast and one hand on her
pus$y. Tumingin siya sa akin at nagtama ang tingin naming dalawa. "I want you..." I smirk. She's
the only girl who brings the caveman out of me. "That's the only thing I want to hear before
touching you." By that I attack her lips. Nilabanan niya ako ng halik I smirked between our
kisses. My one hand touches her breast. Massaging it lightly while kissing her like a hungry
animal. Kinagat ko ang labi niya and insert my tongue inside her mouth.
"Ohhh..." mas ginanahan ako sa ginagawa ko when I heard her moaned. Tumayo siya at umupo
sa lap ko, still kissing. Lalo akong tinigasan sa pwesto namin. Nasa itaas ko siya. My hands
travels at her back.
"Shit keep doing that." I groaned ng gumalaw siya sa taas ko. Rubbing her covered mound to
my hard d!ck. "Ohh ang sarap ahh." She moaned once again. I kissed her lips down to her jaw
line hanggang dumating ang labi ko sa leeg niya. I licked her neck and suck it lightly. Leaving
some hickeys. Tumaas ang halik ko and lick her earlobe at hinalik-halikan ang likod ng tenga
niya. "Ohh fuck. Damn it." I hissed. She keeps on moving on top of me. We're like fucking but
the things is we have our clothes on. Adolescent called this dry hump. I moved up and down
and meet her wet pus$y even I still have my pants on.
"I want more...more." She said. Tinanggal niya ang pagkabutones ng polo ko. And touches my
abs. I stiffened. Her hands is so hot hanggang bumaba ang kamay niya pababa. She unbuckled
my belt and unzip my pants. One of my fantasy is  fucking her inside my car. It's a fucking
dream come true to me. I'm still touching her breast. Tinanggal ko ang brassiere niya and I saw
her pink hardened nipples. I licked her lips one more time before I suck her nipples inside my
mouth. I lick her breast, suck her nipples. "Ohh ahhh ohhh.  Ang sarap. Keep doing that please."
Tiningnan ko siya at mukhang hindi niya alam ko saan siya titingin. "Gladly, baby." I said.
Nilamas ko ang kabilang bundok niya at habang isa naman ay nasa loob ng bibig. "Ohh fuck."
Foreplay is actually a good idea. "Ohh ohhh take me. Take me. Please, please." She pleaded.
Umiling ako. "Not yet baby." I said at bumaba ang kamay ko sa panty niya. I didn't remove it.
Hence, I put my hands inside. I feel her stirred. "Ahhh... what an expert hand you got there." I
heard her whispered. A dirty smirk plastered on my face. "Way to boost my confidence, baby
girl." I said. I touches her clit and pinches it. She moaned. I just touches the sensitive part but
brings pleasure. "Gusto ko pa...please. Gustong gusto ko pa." I inserted my middle finger inside
her at dinagdagan ko pa ng isa. And now I'm finger fucking her. Ilang beses naglabas pasok ang
daliri ko sa loob niya. Hanggang sa labasan siya. "So responsive." I chuckled and put my fingers
inside her mouth. "Taste your cūm, baby girl. Yeah that's right. Keep sucking my fingers." I said
lightly and feel her tongue. So soft. I want to fucking bite it so I removed my hands to her mouth.
I heard her protests but crashed her lips to mine at agad pinasok ang dila ko sa loob niya. We
fight in dominance at mas lalo akong ginaganahan. I bite her soft tongue. "Ohhh God.
Gimmeeee more. So hot. I want to be fucked hard and fast. Don't hold back. I want you to strap
me down. Fuck me hard and show me who's in charge. Fill me with your hardness. Fuck me like
you own me."
"I will. I'm going to fuck you so hard until you can't walk anymore. And the only name you'll be
moaning is my name. I'm not feeling gentle tonight."

😅
***

😘
What can you say? Wag kayong magalala may next pa to. Ang pinakahihintay niyo. [/send
virtual kisses; next time ulit.

[ 19 CHAPTERXVII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XVII: Give me more cream

Kalev Stanislaski's Point of View      I pulled her closer and brushed my lips back and forth
against her lips. Nandito na kami sa loob ng penthouse ko. I'm kissing her senselessly while
walking pataas sa kwarto ko. Marsh is special to me. That's why I brought her here in my
penthouse not in a hotel or cheap motels.
As much as I want to take her in my car I think it's not a perfect place for the meantime. It's
small and uncomfortable. Kaya hanggang sa kaya kong magpigil agad akong nagmadaling
magdrive papunta sa penthouse ko. Sinuot ko ulit ang damit niya kahit hirap na hirap na ako sa
pagpipigil. Now that I'm sure she's fully clothed agad ko siyang binuhat at pumasok sa elevator
pataas sa penthouse. Mabuti na lang walang mga staffs na naglalakad ngayon sa buong
building. I don't want to make a scene.
"Touch me." She said, I can feel her warm breath to my cheeks. I groaned. "I want to do
something first. Umupo ka sa kama." Naguluhan ako sa sinabi niya. Pero sinunod ko ang gusto
niya. I'm following her command and I want to know what she got. She stood a feet from me.
Naguguluhan pa rin ako sa kung anong gagawin niya but my world stopped when she started
swaying her hips. "Ohh God..." I moaned while intently looking at her. Hindi kumurap dahil tutok
na tutok ang paningin ko sa kanya. Tinaas niya ang dalawang kamay niya habang gumigiling.
And started to strip her shirt slowly. She looks like an expert stripper. The room temperature is
hot. Tumataas kahit naka fully air conditioned ang buong kwarto ko. Tinanggal niya ang
pagkabutones ng pantalon niya. I stood up para lumapit sa kanya. I want to kiss her and taste
her but she stops me. Ohh. The drugs makes her kinky. "Don't move. Umupo ka lang dyan." I
feel so useless. Ibinaba niya ang pantalon niya leaving her underwear. Still swaying her hips
lumapit siya sa akin ng dahan dahan. While biting her lips bigla na lang siyang tumalikod sa
akin at umupo sa lap ko. Now I can feel her sexy ass on my groin. "Fuck." I whimpered ng bigla
na lang siyang gumiling sa taas ko. She's giving me a lap dance and I'm loving it. She rubbed
her as$ on my groin. "You're hard." She whispered. I touch her shoulder at pinaharap sa akin.
Now we're face to face as I moved up and down even we still have my clothes on. Gumalaw
siya taas at baba as she meets my thrust. "Fuck fuck." I whispered.
Bumaba ang kamay niya sa taas ng pagkalalaki ko and she rubbed it. She fucking rubs her
hand sa pagkalalaki ko. "Stop." I said but she didn't. Patuloy pa rin ang pagiling niya sa akin at
ang paghawak niya sa pagkalalaki ko "Oh fuck you're so hot." And then it hit me. Nilabasan ako
agad sa ginawa niya. So fucking elementarish. I grabbed her waist and pulled her down on the
bed. "You're such a naughty girl." Dahil ngayon lang ako nilabasan sa habang nakapantalon pa
ako. Old school.
"Ohhh..." pumwesto ako sa taas niya she arched her back when I started kissing her neck.
Nagtagal ako ng ilang minuto sa leeg niya. Mas dinagdagan pa ang mga hickeys at bumaba
ang halik ko sa malusog niyang dibdib. Kahit kailan hindi ako magsasawa sa dibdib niya. I could
live here. I massaged her two valleys using my two hands. "Ohh ohhh ahhh...ang sarap." She
whispered. I lowered my head until at last I kissed what she wanted me desperately to kiss. I
kissed her thighs. I put her legs to my shoulders and kissed her pus$y passionately and suck
her clit lightly.
Rubbing it in a circular motion. Ramdam ko ang pagkahawak niya da buhok ko at mas lalo
niyang diniinan ang pus$y niya sa mukha ko, nails digging my back. Heaven. I licked her two
folds and tickle her lips with the tip of my tongue. "Hnnnggg..." she gasped in air. Tinanggal ko
ang kamay ko sa dibdib niya and put my fingers inside her. Still tickling her clit while pushing my
two fingers inside her. Deeper and deeper.
I can now taste her juices. Fucking great. She taste good. She's whimpering, body shaking. I'm
still not done. Gusto kong iparamdam sakanya na ako lang ang tanging lalaki na makakagawa
sa kanya ng ganitong bagay. I will kill whoever touches her. As she orgasm again. Tinanggal ko
ang daliri ko sa loob niya at nilagay sa loob ng labi bibig ko. Licking her juices off to my fingers.
Tumayo ako sa tapat niya. I removed my polo and unbuckled my belt. I removed every clothes
that may hinder. I stood in front of her—naked. Like my d!ck comes to life. I stroke my shaft up
and down. "Ohh fuck." I want to fuck her mouth deep to her throat but no...gagawin ko sakanya
iyon with her consent. Nang nasa katinuan siya. But for now, I'm good and satisfied.
God, she was wet. So wet and ready for me. "Marsh..." I murmured at pumwesto sa taas niya.
My lips near her ears. I lick her earlobe at bite it lightly. A soft moan came from her mouth.
"Bend over, baby. I want to take you from the back, don't worry I won't fuck you in the ass, your
pus$h hole will do." I said. She easily obliged. Dumapa siya sa kama. I can now see her clearly.
"Hold tightly, darling." I said and slapped her ass. She moan. "Hmm...you like that?" I saw her
nodded and bite her lips. I slapped her as$ one more time at agad namula 'yun. I smirked. What
a sexy and fine as$. I ached to feel how wet she was. My lust burned in her; I yearned to feel
her soft, feminine walls surrounding me.
Grasping her tightly, in a split second I'm inside her. She's still tight like a fucking virgin. My hard
shaft adjusted to her tight vag!na walls. "Ohh ahhh..." She moaned. I never wanted to please a
woman more than I did this one.
I began to move, testing her, noting how tight she was with each deepening stroke. I moved
slowly. Gentle thrust. Ng maramdaman ko ng handa na si Marsh mas bumibilis ang pagkagalaw
ko. I don't hold back myself anymore. I'm done being a good saint. I thrust fast and hard and all I
can hear is her moan. Ohh. Music to my ears. "Feel me, baby." I groaned. I penetrated her
woman wood. Fast and hard. Back and forth. Slapping her sexy as$ now and then. "Oh my
goodness. Naiihi ako. Ohh ahhh...stop stop please ohhh." I heard her say. I smirk. "Let it out,
baby. Don't hold back." I said still pounding inside her. Naramdaman kong nilabasan na siya but
I didn't stop there. I'm still taking her until I feel like I'm cumming. I cūm inside her. Didn't think
about the consequences of my actions. I pulled out and stroke my shaft a little. Still hard.
Pinaharap ko si Marsh. She's sweating. I kissed the side of her lips. "We're still not done baby. I
still want to take you—missionary style." I said. "You want that?" I asked and pinched her
nipples. She whimpered. "Yes, yes I do."
I don't know what will be her reaction once the drugs takes off. But I think I can handle her
perfectly.
***
Back to Marsh's POV tayo next chap. Sana nagustuhan niyo. :<

[ 20 CHAPTERXVIII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XVIII: Aftermath

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View
I woke up from my deep slumber. Ang sakit ng ulo ko parang may nagmamartilyo.
Bumangon ako pero ang mga paa ko ay natatabunan pa din ng kumot. Napahawak ako sa ulo
ko sa sobrang sakit. Parang gusto ko pa ding matulog, so I did. Humiga ulit ako sa kama at
niyakap ng mahigpit ang malambot na unan. I smelled the pillow. Weird. Kailan pa naging amoy
pabango ng lalaki ang unan ko? At kailan pa lumambot ang kama ko? Kinapa ko ang
bedsheets, my eyes were still close. Bakit ganito kalambot to? Bigla kong binuksan ang mata
ko. Deja vu. Parang nangyari na sa akin to. Pero ngayon—nagising na naman ako sa hindi
kilalang kama at kwarto! Bigla akong nakaramdam ng kaba and I started panicking. Ang tanging
naalala ko lang ay sinama ako nila Tori sa isang bar pagkatapos ng trabaho ko. I drink the glass
of liquor given to me hanggang uminit ang katawan ko. Hanggang doon lang ang naalala ko. I
don't know why I ended in this bed.
Nasaang lupalop ako ng mundo? Anong katangahan na naman 'tong pinasok mo, Marsh. The
room is huge and everything is just plain black and white. Tumingin ako sa sarili at naka puting
polo lang ako. Pinikit ko ang mata ko at inalala ang nangyari kagabi.
Pero walang nangyari lalong sumasakit ang ulo ko. Bigla kong nahawakan ang sarili ko, wala
akong suot na bra at panty! At tanging white polo lang ang suot ko! Anong kagagahan na
naman ang ginawa ko ngayon. M-may nangyari ba sa akin? Like... sex? Gusto kong kay Kalev
ko lang ibibigay ang pagkababae ko. Ha? Kalev? Bakit napasok siya sa usapan. Pakiramdam
ko ang dumi kong babae. Hindi na ako iinom ng kahit na anong alak. Hindi ko akalain na
makakalimutan ko ang mga nangyari.
Gusto ng sumabog ng utak ko kakaisip. Paano na lang pala kung—natigilan ako ng biglang
bumukas ang pinto. "I see, you are now awake." Sabi ni Kalev habang naglalakad. He closed
the door at lumapit sa side table. Binaba nya ang dala niyang tray na may laman na isang
basong tubig at gamot.
Hindi ako makapaniwalang napatingin sa akin. "I-ikaw?" Bigla akong nakahinga ng maluwag.
Hindi ko alam bakit pero naging kampante ako bigla na nasa harapan ko si Kalev. Ang buong
akala ko ibang tao na ang nakasama ko. "Did we...uhmmm... you know..." nakatungong sabi ko.
He arched one of his brows. Kalev is shirtless at tanging walking short lang ang suot nito at
mukhang fitted pa. "See it for yourself." Sabi niya at may inabot sa aking salamin. Kinuha ko
iyon at tiningnan ang aking sarili. Shock is visible in my face. Ang gulo ng buhok ko at mas
lalong nakakuha ng attention ko ay ang mga pulang marka sa leeg ko pababa sa dibdib ko. Oh
my goodness.
"We had sex, Marsh. And both of us enjoy every second of it." Kampanteng sabi niya at umupo
sa kama. Magkaharap na ang mukha namin. I moved a little para makalayo sa kanya but I failed
ang sakit ng gitnang parte ng katawan ko. "Pero bakit wala akong maalala sa nangyari?" I'm
freaking out!
Dalawang beses na may nangyari sa amin. I bite my lips. I'm now sleeping with my boss. Hindi
ako mababang tao pero bakit ganito?
"You had been drugged, Marsh. Here take this, pampawala ng sakit ng ulo." Sabi niya at inabot
sa akin ang isang capsule ng advil. Wala akong lakas para tumanggi pa kaya kinuha ko sa
kamay niya ang gamot at ininom. "May kasamang drugs ang alak na nainom mo. Ketamine. It's
a sex drugs, Marsh. Natural lang na wala kang maalala. Don't worry babalik agad yan but
distorted images. Mabuti na lang at hindi rohypnol ang nakasama sa alak mo." He explained.
"You took advantage of my vulnerable state, again." Pagalit kong sabi. "It's a sex drugs, Marsh.
Para mawala ang epekto ng drugs sa katawan mo I need to penetrate you and of course I'm
more than willing." He wiggles his eyebrows.
I got conscious with his stares. Nakatingin kasi siya sa akin ng malalim. "Did I d-do something
stupid?" I asked nervously. "Stupidly amazing." He said. Tumalikod siya at kinuha ang tray na
dala niya kanina at nakita ko ang likod niya. There's bruises in his back. Parang kinalmot ng
pusa ang likod niya. "Anong nangyari sa likod mo?" Agad kong tanong tumingin siya pabalik sa
akin. "You happened." He simply said.
"Touch me." "I want to do something first. Umupo ka sa kama."
"You're hard."
"Fuck fuck."
Holy! Biglang may pumasok na images sa isip ko. And it's clearly my voice and Kalev's. May
nangyari nga ulit samin! And I was so stupid to let it happen again!
"Don't overthink, Marsh. Wag mong pilitin ang sarili mong makaalala. Kusang darating yan."
Sabi niya, napatingin ako sa kanya at sa side table niya. May maliit na orasan doon and it says
1:00 PM. "Ala una na pala! Late na ako sa trabaho!" Sabi ko at tatayo na sana ng humiga si
Kalev sa kama at hinila ako pababa. Nakahiga ako sa dibdib niya habang yakap niya ako.
"No work. Just rest. I don't feel like going to work today. Let's just enjoy the day, shall we?" I can
feel my heart beating so fast. "I can feel your breast, Marsh. Gusto ko ulit hawakan at halikan."
He whispered. Kinurot ko ang tagiliran niya but he pinches my as$. "Manyak." I gritted my teeth
at nahiga lang sa dibdib niya. It's comfortable and somehow it makes me happy. Ako na yata
ang pinaka walang utak na nilalang. Kaunti lang ang naalala ko kung anong nangyari kagabi.
Nalaman kong nadrugs pala ako. We had sex. And I'm enjoying every second of it. As long as
it's Kalev Stanislaski.
"I want to take you again." Bulong niya sa tenga ko. Biglang nagtaasan baliho ko sa batok.
"Masakit pa ba?" Tanong niya. Halos lahat ng dugo ko napunta sa mukha ko. Tumango ako ng
dahan dahan.
"I understand. Halos naka pitong rounds tayo kagabi. Dog style, missionary, cowgirl,
spooning—"
"Stop it Kalev." I said at mas kinurot pa siya. I heard him chuckles dahil nagvibrate ang dibdib
niya. "Hindi ko na pala kailangan ikwento sayo ang nangyari because you will remember every
minute and every second of what happened last night."
"Just stop." I didn't know that Kalev has playful side. Dahil ngayon hiyang hiya na ako.
LUMABAS ako ng kwarto ni Kalev. Suot ang bagong damit na ibinigay niya sa akin kanina. He
told me to wear it, so I did. I used his bathroom at ng mahubad ko ang polo na suot ko nakita ko
ang daming mapupula sa katawan ko. Sa gilid ng leeg, sa cleavage, sa breast ko, kahit sa may
tyan ay meron. Bumaba ako ng hagdan at hinanap kung nasaan si Kalev. He told me to go
downstairs once I finished taking a bath.
Hindi na naman nawala sa paningin ko ang grand piano. Hindi ko matiis na lumapit doon. "What
a happy piano." I whispered at hinawakan ang mga keys ng dahan dahan upang hindi
makagawa ng ingay.
"You play?" Bigla akong nagulat ng biglang may nagsalita sa likod ko. Lumingon ako at nakita
ko sa Kalev na nakasandal. Fresh from bath at naka walking short lang ito. Hindi ba siya
nagdadamit? Umiling ako at sumagot. "No." Tinanggal ko ang paningin ko sa piano at lumakad
palapit sa pwesto niya. He studied my face. I found him hot ng mapansin kong naka barefoot
lang ito. Napailing na lang ako. I'm so into him. Napakamatipuno ng dibdib niya at mukhang
alagang gym. At kahit ang abs niya ay hulmang-hulma.
"Stop drooling. Let's go grab something to eat." Sabi niya at tumalikod papuntang kusina. I
frowned. What a rude man! Sumunod ako sa kanya. Hindi pa din ako makapaniwala sa laki ng
lugar ng penthouse niya. Puwede ng tumira ang isang pamilya. Pagdating ko sa kusina nakita
kong nakakunot ang noo niya habang binubuksan ang cupboard at ang ref.
"Anong problema?" Tanong ko sa kanya. Tumingin siya sa akin. "Nakalimutan ko, puro instant
noodles lang ang laman ng cupboard ko. Puro beer naman ang laman ng ref."
"It's not healthy kung puro instant food ang kinakain mo." Sabi ko naman sa kanya.
"I'm so busy with my life. Minsan take out foods kinakain ko." He shrugged his shoulders like it's
not a big deal. I frowned. "Mas maayos pa rin kung lutong bahay ang kakainin mo. At wag mong
idahilan ang pagiging busy mo dahil kailangan mong makahanap ng oras para kumain." I said
and sighed. "At dahil malaki ang utang na loob ko sayo..." tumingin muna ako sakanya bago
muling nagsalita. "...lagi na kitang ipagluluto at dadalhan ng lunch." Lumapit siya sa akin at
cornered me. Bigla akong napatingala dahil ang tangkad niya.
"Really? Good idea, baby." He said and wink. My heart started to pound rapidly. "Tara samahan
mo akong mag-grocery. Pupunuin ko ng stock ang cupboard ko."
HALOS lahat ng tao sa grocery store ay nakatingin kay Kalev. Sino ba naman ang hindi
mapapatingin sa kanya? We're pushing the car side by side habang nilalagyan niya ng laman
ang cart hanggang sa mapuno.
"Do you think it's enough?" Tanong niya habang nakatingin sa laman ng cart. Tinirik ko ang mga
mata ko. "Punong-puno na ang laman nito, Kalev. It's more than enough." Sabi ko naman. Puno
ng mga gulay, spam, bacon, pork, beef, shrimps, crab, chicken meat. Hindi din mawawala ang
mga junk foods. Lumapit siya sa akin at inakbayan ako. "Bakit ka nakaakbay? Para kang
mawawala." I said at siniko ang stomach part niya pero hindi masyadong malakas.
Naramdaman ko ang tigas. Sarap lamasin. Muntikan ko ng batukan ang sarili ko. Ang dumi ng
isip ko!
"Most number of guys were staring at you. I hate it. Dapat pala iniwan na lang kita sa
penthouse. Wrong move." Sabi niya na ikinapula ng pisngi ko. Siya nga tong pinagtitinginan ng
mga kababaihan. Sa tuwing dadaan si Kalev sa kanila ay akala mo nahulogan ng panty. Hmp.
Hindi ako nagsalita at patuloy lang sa pagtulak ng cart hanggang sa huminto ito sa...
"Hmmm. Do you want to buy one box?"
...sa bilihan ng condom. "Oh god..." naibulong ko na lang. Kanina pa namumula ang pisngi ko at
nadagdagan pa nito.
"Never mind." He said as he whispered the last part pero hindi ko na narinig ang sinabi niya.
Ang haba ng pila sa cashier. Nasa panlima kami. Si Kalev kung anong ginagawa sa batok ko.
PDA is not in his vocabulary. Leaving some soft kisses sa may batok ko at kanina pa ako
nakikiliti. Pinagtitinginan na rin kami ng ibang tao. Geez.
"Kalev! Stop acting like a kid." I whispered with a gritted teeth. But he didn't listen. "Kung hindi
ka pa titigil iiwan kita dito. And I'm not kidding." I said using a serious voice that I can mustered.
"Fine fine. I'll stop." He hissed. "Good." Ganun lang ang pwesto naming dalawa. Naka akbay
siya sa akin habang hinihintay na matapos ang nasa unahan namin. After 10 minutes of waiting,
it's our turn. Pero hindi pa rin nagsisimula ang cashier. Nakatingin lang siya kay Kalev. Mukhang
na starstruck yung cashier sa kagwapuhan ni Kalev. I fake a cough. Pero wala pa ring nangyari
nakatingin pa din ang cashier kay Kalev at mukhang nagdidaydream na. Bigla akong
nakaramdam ng inis. Why? I don't know bigla ko na lang naramdaman. Magsasalita na sana
ako ng naunang magsalita si Kalev.
"Titingin ka na lang ba sa akin Miss? Do your job and stop daydreaming or else I'll call your
manager and tell how incompetent you are in your work." He threatened. "Don't make me wait."
He said using his cold voice. Biglang kumilos agad ang cashier na halos iiyak na at agad
nilagay sa brown bag ang mga ipinamili namin.
"You don't need to be harsh. Kawawa naman yung babae." Sabi ko. May hawak akong
dalawang brown bag at siya naman ay tatlo. Naglalakad na kami papunta sa parking lot at
tinungo ang kotse niya.
"Her fault not mine." Maikling sabi niya. Playful Kalev is gone at naging seryoso. Napaka bipolar.
Napailing na lang ako at sumakay sa kotse niya matapos ilagay ang mga brown bag sa back
seat.

😂
* * * Chill muna next time na lang ulit ang hot chapter. Gusto niyong magkaroon ng story si
Victoria at Trevor?

[ 21 CHAPTERXIX ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XIX: Rival

Marsh Lahm's Point of View                "Meeting with the stockholders this incoming 9:00 AM.
Lunch meeting with an investor, 12 PM. Contract signing, 2 PM. And this incoming 8 PM, dinner
meeting with one client at West Side Restaurant." I said while reading a small sticky note.
Nakatayo ako sa may tapat niya. He's busy reading some contracts.
It's been 3 days since nakapunta ako sa penthouse niya. At ng may nakita akong may lunch
meeting siya naalala ko na may dala akong lunch para sakanya. Siguro ako na lang ang kakain
nun. I sigh. Ito ang trabaho ko sakanya, schedule all his meetings and appointments, flights,
took all his phone calls, everything. It's tiring though.
"Cancel the lunch meeting and rescheduled it. Kakainin ko ang dala mong lunch." He said then
looked at me. I hide my smile. Hindi ko alam kung bakit kinikilig ako. "What? Are you gonna
stand up there 'till the end of the day?" He said sarcastically. Jerk. Hindi ko maiwasan itirik ang
mata ko bago tumalikod at umupo sa station ko. There's a time na napakaseryoso niya dala ang
problema ng buong pilipinas. Sometimes sweet but most of the time bossy jerk.
Umupo ako at kinuha ang phone at tinawagan si Mr. Chao ang bagong investor pero ang
sekretarya niya ang sumagot. "Good day! How may I help you?" Sabi sa kabilang linya.
"This is Marsh Lahm, Mr. Kalev Stanislaski's personal assistant. I would like to inform you that
the lunch meeting is being rescheduled."
"Ohh. I'll inform Mr. Chao right away. Just call me when there's a new schedule." The other line
said. Tumingin ako sa kalendaryo na nasa left side ng table ko at tumingin kung anong date ang
wala pang nakalagay na schedule.
"Next week, Tuesday, 12 PM."
"Okay, cool." And I ended the call. Napatingin ako kay Kalev, he's looking at me. "Why are you
looking at me like that." I said. Mukhang kanina pa siya nakatingin sa akin. "You look hot talking
to the phone." He said at ibinaba ang fountain pen na hawak niya. Kumunot ang noo ko.
"I was just talking to the phone Kalev. Rescheduling your lunch meeting." I said like it was just a
normal thing. Tumayo siya sa swivel chair niya. "Exactly. But you look so damn hot. Like I want
to kiss you right now." He sat at the edge of my table. At ako naman ay nanatiling naka upo at
nakatingin sa kanya.
Tiningnan ko yung mukha ni Kalev sa taas ko. I smiled. Pwede ko siyang pagsawaan ng tingin
because he's close.
Ang haba ng pilik mata niya, pointed nose, at tsaka yung lips... damn! It's kissable.
Snap out of it, Marsh I said to myself. Pinagnanasaan mo na naman ang boss mo
"Staring is rude." He said. Oh holy cow! Nakita ba niya na tumitingin ako sa kanya?
"Huh? Ofcourse I am not. I'm  not looking at you." I said at iniwas ang tingin ko. I am praying to
God na sana I don't sound so defensive.
"Lying is a sin." He said again. Kaya napatingin ako ulit sa kanya.
"Eh? I'm not lying." I said again.
"You sound so defensive." Magsasalita na sana ako ng nakita ko ang pag taas ng labi niya. Did
I just saw his lips curved into smile? Bumaba ang tingin niya sa labi ko.
"W-what are you going to d-do?" Tanong ko sakanya using my low voice. Pababa ng pababa
ang mukha niya. "I want to kiss you." Our lips are just inches away. Naamoy ko na naman ang
pabango niya. So damn manly.
"Mixing business with pleasure is a big no no." Biglang mag nagsalita at agad kong nilayo ang
mukha ko kay Kalev. He looked pissed. Tumingin ako kung sino ang nagsalita, and it was Nikos.
"What the fvck are you doing here Nikos? Make sure it's important." Tumayo si Kalev mula sa
pagkaupo sa edge ng table ko. Inayos ko ang sarili ko bago humarap kay Nikos. "Hey Marsh.
Kailan lang tayo nagkita pero mas lalo kang gumanda ngayon." He said with a wink. "Hey
Nikos." Bati ko sakanya pabalik. "Not too shabby, huh?" I added.
"Stop complimenting her Nikos." Kalev said habang madilim ang mukha. "Say what you really
want before I kick you out of my company. I'm not bluffing." I heard him said using his serious
voice. Parang kanina lang ang ganda ng ngiti niya pero ngayon halos papatay na ng tao. May
disorder kaya siya? Oh my. Hindi halata dahil napakagwapo niya. Gwapo din naman si Nikos
pero para sa akin wala ng makakatalo kay Kalev. Pinagnanasaan ko ba ang boss ko? It's not
proper!
"First, I know you hate being late but FYFI and that stands for 'for your fucking information'
you're late for the stockholders meeting. 10 minutes late to be exact. Gusto mo pa bang ituloy
ang meeting or you want to stay here at your office together with a lovely lady?" Ngayon ko lang
napansin na nakasuot ng suit and tie si Nikos. And hugs every curve of his body. He's kinda
masculine pero wala pa ding makakatalo sa mga bicep at abs ni Kalev. He looks more like a
pretty boy. May lahi kaya si Nikos? Japanese? Chinese? Korean? I can't tell.
"Ohh. I'm just discussing important things with Marsh." Kalev said with a grin. "You stay here. I'll
be back shortly." Sabi niya. Napatingin ako sa wall clock. It's already 9:10 AM.
"Bye Marsh. See you again." Ulit ni Nikos and he wink again at me. Does he have a winking
problem? "You better stop winking at her or else I'll pull that damn eyes of yours." 'Yun na lang
ang tanging narinig ko bago sila lumabas ng opisina.
I'VE been sitting on my seat for almost 1 hour. At hindi pa rin natatapos ang meeting. I'm busy
reading one of the reports na pinapabasa sa akin ni Kalev not until biglang may nagkaroon ng
ingay. What's happening?
"I told you I don't need an appointment just to see  Kalev! Bakit ba ang kulit mo?!"
"Ma'am, sandali po. Hindi po basta na lang nagpapapasok ng bisita si Sir Kalev sa loob ng
office niya, Ma'am!"
"Don't touch me or else I'll fire you."
"Pero Ma'am—"
A fine woman walks inside Kalev's office. She's wearing a sundress, may dala siyang small bag
na kakulay ng sundress niya. I know her! Siya yung babae na bigla na lang sumulpot sa
wedding ni Stacey at Kelvin. What's her name again? Honey?  Hannah? I don't know. Bigla
akong napatayo sa inuupuan ko. "Good morning, Ma'am." I said with respect. I'm just working
here and she came here as a client, maybe? Napatingin silang dalawa sa akin.
"Marsh, ikaw na lang bahala dyan." I heard Erin said. Erin is Kalev's secretary. Hindi ko alam
gagawin ko kaya napatango na lang ako. Tumalikod siya at lumabas ng office ni Kalev. Alright,
what am I gonna do with her?
"Kalev is not here, Ma'am. The stockholders meeting is still on going. In any minute darating na
po siya." I said. Tumingin siya sa akin like she's criticizing me. Kumunot ang noo niya.
"Kalev? You dare to call your boss with his name?" I bite my lips. Oopps. Ibinaba niya ang dala
niyang small bag sa may sofa at dahan dahan lumapit sa akin. She walks with sophistication.
At  ang heels niyang five inches ang taas ang tanging gumagawa ng ingay.
"Ahh now I know why you look familiar. Ikaw yung babae sa Hotel ni baby Kalev ko. Commoner
like you is not easy to be recognized by a wealthy woman like me." Did she just say commoner?
I think she's right so I don't need to be mad. Kalma lang Marsh, makaka survive ka din. Sabi ko
sa sarili ko. This isn't the first time someone judge me by my social status.
Pumwesto siya sa harapan ko at tanging table lang ang agwat namin. She stood taller than me.
Dahil na rin siguro sa suot niyang killer heels.
"So what are you doing here?" She ask as she touches some strands of my hair.
"I'm Mr. Stanislaski's personal assistant, Ma'am." Tipid kong sabi. She withdrew her hand and
laugh frantically. "Yes that's right. Address Kalev as your boss. Did you two had sex already?
Tell me is my fiance good in bed?" Biglang sumama ang pakiramdam ko dahil sa sinabi niya.
Fiance? Kalev is already engaged? Then why did he keeps on calling me his baby. Madaming
tanong ang pumasok sa isip ko. Pero mas pinigil ko ang sarili kong gumawa ng scandalo sa
loob ng office niya.
"Akala mo gusto ka na ng fiance ko? You're just his flavor of the month, girl. Abangan mo na
lang bukas iiwan ka din ni Kalev. Like. A. Hot. Potato." She said with a smirk plastered on her
face. Trust me, she looks like a witch. Huminga ako ng malalim ang nagbilang mula isa
hanggang sampo. Hindi ko maitatanggi na nasaktan ako sa mga sinabi niya. I trust Kalev. Lalo
na at bigla kong naalala ang paguusap namin ni Kalev sa loob ng sasakyan niya.
"You think I'll make you a bad girl?" That's exactly what he told me.
"Oh girl cat got your tongue? Narealize mo na ginagawa ka lang ni Kalev na maduming babae?
I pity you so much. Siguro ganyan din ang nanay mo. You know like mother, like daughter." She
said. That's the last draw. Ayos lang na ako ang sabihan ng masamang salita pero hindi ang
nanay ko. She just hit a sensitive part.
"Tapos ka na ba?" Mahinang salita ko. Tamang tama lang na marinig niya. Mukha lang akong
mahinang babae pero hindi ako nagpapatalo. She raised one of her brows.
"Excuse me?" She said. "No you are not excuse. Kung gusto mong irespeto ka dapat irespeto
mo din ang kapwa mo. Fiance? Really?" Tumawa ako ng pagak. "Kung fiance mo si Kalev bakit
walang singsing yang daliri mo?" This is my time to smirk. Her face paled. "I left it at home!"
Tumaas ang boses niya.
"Naiwan mo? Wow! What a good excuse. Kung may singsing ka talaga na mula kay Kalev
hinding hindi mo yun maiiwan because a girl like you want to show it to the whole world. Kulang
na lang ipagsigawan mo." Her hand automatically touched my cheeks. Did she just slapped
me? Nalasahan ko ang dugo sa labi ko, napatingin ako sa kanya kahit natatabunan ng ilang
hibla ng buhok ko ang mukha ko.
"Truth hurts like a bitch." I muttered. "You daughter of a fucking bitch. I'm going to kill you! A low
life like you don't have the rights to talk me that way! Born like a street rat, die like a street rat!"
Hinila niya ang buhok ko at hinampas ang mukha ko sa table. Biglang umikot ang paningin ko.
Hindi ko na magawang makalaban pa. Ilang beses niyang hinampas ang ulo ko sa sarili kong
table habang hawak niya ang buhok ko. Mamatay na ba talaga?
Nikos Sy Stanislaski's Point of View
"Gentleman, that's all for today." Oh thank goodness. Finally, the boring meeting was done.
Nakita kong dali daling lumabas si Kalev ng conference room. Agad ko naman siyang sinundan.
I really like to annoy people a lot. And this is one of the rarest time to annoy Kalev.
"Can't wait to see Marsh?" I whistled and walk besides him. "Fuck off." He said. "Kung wala
kang matinong sasabihin you better shut up." Napailing na lang ako at sumakay sa VIP elevator
with Kalev. He owns the whole company but I'm one of the stockholders. I own 18.7% of stocks.
"Don't have any work to do?" I glared at him. "My firm can work without me." I said "I want to
see Marsh again kaya sasama ako sayo sa loob ng opisina mo." I added. Agad kumunot ang
noo niya at masamang tumingin sa akin. I raised my hands. "Stop staring at me Kalev, baka
mainlove ka sa akin mahirap na. I don't do guys and I'm not a fan of incest either."
"Fuck you." I chuckled. "Yes, I know I'm fuckable."
Lumabas kami ng elevator when it stopped sa 9th floor. I saw Kalev's secretary. Sexy as ever
pero ubod ng sungit. She smiled to Kalev at biglang sumimangot ng makita ako. Wala pa
naman akong ginagawa. I tsked.
"Miss Haneah Kingston is inside your office, Sir. Hindi ko na po napigilan dahil bigla na lang
siyang pumasok." She said as she bowed her head. Ah right, Kalev didn't want some people
going inside his office. What a weird guy. Hindi siya pinansin ni Kalev at mabilis pumasok sa
loob ng office niya. Lumapit ako kay Erin "Hey beautiful lady. Want to work as my secretary? I'll
double your salary." I said at tumingin sa kanya. Tinapunan niya ako ng tingin at bumalik sa
ginagawa niya. "With due of respect, Sir. May trabaho na po ako. And even you triple my salary,
hindi ako magtatrabaho sainyo." Ngumiti siya ng pilit. I mused. What a lovely lady. "See you
around Miss secretary." I said with a wink at pumasok sa loob ng opisina ni Kalev.
"What. The. Fuck." I said at gulat na gulat sa nakita ko. Haneah is holding Marsh hair at
hinahampas niya ang ulo ni Marsh sa lamesa.
"Why are you still standing there Nikos Sy Stanislaski! Fucking call 911! Ilabas mo si Haneah
dahil baka mapatay ko siya!" Kalev roared in anger. Agad ko namang hinawakan ang braso ni
Haneah. "No no don't touch me!" Sigaw din ni Haneah.
"Can you fucking shut up!" I said at agad siyang nilabas sa loob ng opisina.
"You made a mistake Haneah Kingston. Huge mistake. Magdasal ka na dahil hindi ka
sasantuhin ni Kalev kahit babae ka pa."
***
Ahmmmm. Well, Nikos Sy Svadildari sa media. Sana nagustuhan niyo ang chap.

[ 22 ChapterXX ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XX: Concussion

Marsh Lahm's Point of View I opened my eyes slowly. All I can see is white background and
faint voices from the surroundings.
"Wa...ter." I mumbled with a low voice.
"Marsh is awake!" It's Tori's voice. "Thank goodness finally, gising ka na rin." It's Nikos' voice.
"What...happened?" Bigla akong humawak sa ulo ko. "Ouch." I hissed ng may mahawakan
akong nakabenda sa ulo ko.
"Heneah Kingston happened! Kung nasa office lang ako ni Kalev ng mangyari ito hindi siya
makakalabas ng buhay! That bitch! She's so annoying. Para siyang linta na dikit ng dikit kay
Kalev!" Pagalit na sabi ni Tori. Nakahiga pa rin ako which I presumed the hospital bed.
"You suffered from concussion Marsh. Darating na agad ang Doctor. I already called Alexander."
Sabi naman ni Nikos. Kinuha ko ang isang basong tubig na inabot sa akin ni Tori.
"Can I ask?" Tanong ko. Napatingin naman silang dalawa sa akin.
"Go ask away." Sagot ni Nikos na nakaupo sa isang couch. Ngayon ko lang napansin na
napakalaki ng buong kwarto. Ito ba ang tinatawag nilang presidential suite?
"Is it true? Kalev is engaged?" Hindi pa rin mawala sa isip ko ang mga pinagusapan namin. It's
still inside my head like a bug. Tori burst into laughter.
"Oh my hahahaha. Sorry hahahaha it's just that hahaha." I face palm. She's wearing a school
uniform? Tori is still a student?
"Sorry for laughing. Kasi naman ikaw lang ata ang pasyenteng unang nagtanong ng ganyan
imbis na ang sabihin mo ay where am I? Why I am here?" Sabi ni Tori habang nakahawak pa sa
tyan niya. Tumingin na lang ako kay Nikos dahil sa tingin ko siya lang ang makapagbibigay sa
akin ng matinong sagot but no—he's laughing too!
"Is there something wrong?" I pouted. May nakatusok na IV set sa akin at hindi ako gaanong
makagalaw ng maayos. Sumasakit pa din ang ulo ko pero kailangan ko ng malaman ang sagot.
Imbis na ulo ko ang sumakit kundi ang puso ko.
"Marsh? You okay? Masyado bang nabagok ang ulo mo? Oh my. Nikos call the doctor! Hurry
up!" Sabi ni Tori.
"I'm actually fine now." I said.
"Kalev is never been engaged. Kanino mo naman narinig yan, Marsh?" Sabi ni Nikos at
sumadal ng ayos habang nagbabasa ng tabloid. I sighed in relief.
"That girl told me..."
"That girl? You mean Haneah?" Tumango naman ako ng dahan dahan.
"Wag kang masyadong maniwala sa babaeng 'yun. Goodness! That girl is delusional!
Psychopath!? Kulang sa aruga ng magulang!" Sabi ni Tori and then she added that makes me
really really really curious.
"Hindi ko lang maintindihihan kung bakit natitiis ni Kalev ang babaeng yun. I mean it's been
what—7 years? Who's counting because I'm not! Kalev saved her from an accident. Nikos didn't
even told me the real reason and details. Simula nun parang anino na sunod ng sunod kay
Kalev! Wow!" Hindi makapaniwala na sabi ni Tori. I just stared at her and listened to her rants.
"Kahit sa mga gatherings kasama siya kahit hindi naman imbitado. Kung may baril lang ako
baka matagal ko ng nabaril yun! Buti na lang hindi Criminology ang kinuha kong course."
"Mabuti na lang talaga at hindi pulis ang kinuha mo kundi baka mapatay mo lahat ng taong
kinaiinisan mo, Victoria. I'll bet all my money in my bank, lagpas isang daan na tao ang
mapapatay mo." Natatawang sabi ni Nikos.
"You don't even fill my glass Nikos! Anong klaseng pinsan ka. Hindi mo man lang sabihin sa
akin ang nangyari 7 years ago." Tori said while stomping her feet.
"Because it's not my story to tell." Sagot ni Nikos at tumingin sa akin na parang may gustong
sabihin.
"Why do you hate her so much?" Tanong ko. Dahil mukhang may ibang pinaghuhugutan ang
galit ni Tori. The way she speaks Haneah's name halos pumutok na ang bulkan. No kidding.
Hindi niya napapansin pero namumula ang mukha niya. Bigla siyang natigilan sa tanong ko and
then looks away. Tumayo siya at nilagay ang dalawang kamay niya sa bewang niya.
"Because I hate her. No particular reason. Basta ayoko sa kanya." Tumango na lang ako. I don't
want to be nosy. Kung gusto sabihin ni Tori ang totoong dahilan makikinig ako pero kung ayaw
niya sabihin that's fine with me. But I still can't believe I can see Tori with a uniform.
"Oh no Marsh. Don't look at me like that. Yes I'm still in College." Ohh. That explains why she's
wearing one. "It's Wednesday that's why I'm wearing a uniform." She pouted like a kid.
Wednesday na ngayon?
"Anyway, ilang araw akong unconscious?" I ask. I felt like I've been here for ages.
"1 day and 5 hours to be exact." Sagot ni Nikos.
"Where's the patient?" Biglang pumasok ang isang doctor. Si Jack Frost! I mean si Alexander.
Still wearing a doctors suit, his eyeglasses that makes him sexy at may stethoscope na
nakasabit sa may leeg niya. Pumunta siya sa pwesto ko. He checked my head at kung anong
sinulat sa file na dala niya.
"Marsh! Marsh! You okay?" Biglang pumasok si Elizabeth. Worried. Ngumiti lang ako sa kanya.
Umupo siya katabi ni Tori sa sofa habang kumakain ng chips.
"You suffered from concussion. Injury of the brain resulting to disturbance of cerebral function."
He said with an icy voice.
"How are you feeling?"
"I'm okay. May kaunting sakit lang sa ulo." I said. Been wondering where is Kalev. Am I looking
for him? I can't denied that.
"That's normal for a person suffering from concussion. You'll be fine though. After 2 hours
papaltan na ang gauze mo sa may noo. Masyadong napupuno na ng dugo. Don't forget to put
some cream on it para hindi magkaroon ng scar." I nodded.
"I'll be back shortly. Kukunin ko lang ang cream para sa wound mo. Nikos, kayo na muna ang
bahala." He said at lumabas na lang ng pinto.
"What are you doing here in the hospital Elizabeth?" Tanong ni Tori ng makalabas ng pinto si
Alexander.
"What? Of course nandito ako para dalawin si Marsh." She said at tumingin sa akin. She smiled
at ibinalik ko ang ngiti niya.
"Paano mo naman nalaman na nandito si Marsh? As far as I remember hindi pa kita natetext na
nandito kami."
"Ha ha. Don't ask cousin. Ang totoo niyan nandito na talaga ako sa hospital. At nabalitaan ko
lang na nandito si Marsh so I've decided to visit her."
Ngayon ko lang napansin, everyone of them has a secrets to keep. Halos lahat naman ng tao
may tinatago even rich people like them has no exception.
"What are you doing here?" Tori asked.
"Just...things." Elizabeth said at tumingin sa akin. "You sure you're fine now Marsh?"
"One hundred percent sure. Kaunting pahinga na lang magiging maayos din ako ng tuloyan."
Itatanong ko kaya kung anong tumatakbo sa isip ko? "Ahmm. Nakita niyo ba si Kalev?" I ask
shyly.
"Kalev is so mad. He wants Haneah behind bars. Maybe he's busy pulling some strings to make
it happen." Bigla akong kinabahan sa sinabi ni Nikos.
"But why? Isn't it over reacting? Ayos naman ako this is just a scratch. Bakit kailangan niyang
gawin 'yun?" Hindi ko mapakapaniwalang sagot. Haneah may be a bitch but I know there's
something good inside her. Kasalanan ko rin naman ang nangyari. If I didn't provoke her or kung
hindi ko na lang siya pinatulan hindi mangyayari sa akin 'to ngayon. Everything is still vivid in my
mind.
"This isn't over reacting Marsh. Kung hindi pa agad natapos ang meeting baka naabutan ka
namin ni Kalev sa loob ng opisina na wala ng buhay. Imagine my shock when I saw Haneah
banging your head on your table." Sabi ni Nikos. His eyes I can't read them pero ang alam ko
he's worried. How touching...
"Are you crying Marsh?" Tanong ni Elizabeth. Agad kong pinunasan ang luha na pumutak sa
may pisnge ko. Kailan pa ako naging emotional na tao. "No...no. I'm just...touched. You care for
me." I said in a low voice. "Of course we do! We're friends and basically you are part of the
family too."
"Who the hell made you cry, baby. Tell me!" My heart beats rapidly. Pumasok sa loob si Kalev.
Did he just call me baby in front of his cousins? Yes. Yes he does.
"It's nothing." Tuloyan kong tinuyo ang mga luha ko at sinalubong ang kulay asul niyang mata.
Ang lakas ng epekto niya sa akin. Tingin pa lang kinakabahan na agad ako.
"Ahm...bili lang muna kami sa labas." Sabi ni Elizabeth at hinila sa Tori.
"Ha? Katatapos ko lang kumain?" Kunot noong tanong ni Tori. "Let's just go." Pilit ni Elizabeth.
"I'm coming with you guys." Sabi naman ni Nikos. Inakbayan niya si Tori at hinila naman
palabas ng kwarto ni Elizabeth. Leaving us here inside the room.
"Marsh, cara mia, you good? I'll call Alexander kung may sumasakit sa'yo. Just tell me." Umupo
si Kalev sa kama. Sa kama mismo at hindi sa sofa. Katabi ng paa ko. He touched my hand like
it's a normal thing to do.
"I'm fine." Maikling pahayag ko. "Fine? You have a wound on your head and you bleed a lot
when I saw you in my office and now you're saying you're fine?" Galit na sabi niya. "I'm really
going to kill Haneah!" His body were tensed. At mukhang galit na galit. I lightly squeezed his
hands and then smiled. "Calm down Kalev. Ayos na ako. And please hindi mo na kailangan
ipakulong si Haneah. It's unnecessary. It's my fault though." Sabi ko at tumungo. He hold my
chin at pinantay ang tingin naming dalawa.
"Why is it your fault? Don't take the blame. She do something bad she need to suffer. Nobody
can hurt you. Not in my watch." His word is soothing. Like caressing a baby. I never knew Kalev
can be this soft. And I feel so special knowing that he's capable of showing emotion in front of
me.
"It's really my fault. Kung hindi lang ako sumagot pabalik hindi mangyayari 'to. I provoked her. I
said things and I felt so guilty." I said. I'm impulsive but easily get guilty afterwards.
"Don't say that. I watched the CCTV and heard your conversations. I know what exactly
happened." Sabi naman niya. Napatingin ako sa kanya. So alam niya ang mga sinabi ko? Oh
no! Nakakahiya ka na naman Marsh!
"I'm so proud of you my little princess. Hindi ka naniwala sa mga sinabi niya. It's rubbish. She
isn't my fiancé. I never been engaged. I don't know why I'm explaining this to you but I need to!"
I smiled. He's cute! Biglang pumasok sa isipan ko ang usapan namin ni Aling Florentina—ang
landlady ng apartment na inuupahan ko.
"Bibigyan pa kita ng tatlong araw kung hindi ka pa rin nakakabayad ng upa sa apartment,
palalayasin na kita dito! Makikita mo na lang ang mga gamit mo sa labas!"
"Kalev! Anong araw na ngayon?! I know it's Wednesday pero anong date?" I'm panicking.
"It's 15th of the month. Why?" Sabi naman niya habang nakatingin sa mukha ko na para bang
nasisiraan na ako ng bait.
"Oh my god! Napalayas na ako ng apartment ko! I need to go." I said at iniisip kung saan ako
lilipat ng apartment. Paano ko madadala lahat ng mga gamit ko. For sure, nasa labas na 'yun
lahat.
"You are not going anywhere, young lady. Leave everything to me. I'll handle it."

😭
***
Thank you po sa nagbabasa nitoooo dahil naka abot kayo sa chapter 20. Sa mga
nagcocomment thankkk youuuuu [/send virtual kisses; xoxo.

[ 23 CHAPTERXXI ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXI: Living with him 

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View                "Cream for your wounds. Just apply right amount of this.
Here's the gauze. All set." Sabi ni Alexander at inilagay sa may side table ang mga gamit upang
malinis ang sugat ko sa gilid ng noo. I thought the doctor stitched my wound pero hindi. Sabi ni
Alexander it's unnecessary.
"You may now leave." Sabi naman ni Kalev na nakatayo sa may left side ko. "Ako na ang
bahala kay Marsh. Don't bother. Go to your other patient." He added. "Stop acting like a doctor
now because I am. But if you insist, aalis na ako. Enjoy you two." Kumunot ang noo ko sa sinabi
ni Alexander na enjoy bago lumabas ng pinto. Si Kalev naman ay lumipat sa right side ko at
kinuha ang cream.
He moved closer towards me. My lips were pressed and almost choked with my own saliva.
Napaka lapit ng mukha naming dalawa. "Relax, darling. I won't eat you without your
permission." Sabi niya at tinanggal dahan dahan ang benda sa noo ko.
"This must be hurt like hell." I flinched with his touch ng lagyan niya ng cream ang sugat ko.
"Kinda." Sagot ko na lang. Nilagyan niya ng panibagong gauze ang sugat ko. All I can see is his
face bumaba ang tingin ko sa labi niya at binalik sa mga mata niya. It wasn't easy to ignore
those eyes but it was next impossible to ignore those lips. Nang matapos si Kalev sa kanyang
ginagawa doon lang niya napansin na nakatingin ako sa labi niya. In just a second, his lips
touches mine. Brushing and asking for entrance. Babae lang ako at marupok so I let him in. I
can feel his wet and moist tongue inside my mouth. He's definitely a good kisser. Kahit akong
walang karanasan sa paghalik nadadala niya. He suck my lower lips and lightly bite it sakto lang
para hindi ako masaktan instead it give shivers to my spine.
I gasped for air as my body tensed. Nagsimula na namang uminit ang buong kwarto. I moaned
from his kisses I can feel him smirk between our kisses. I automatically encircled my arms to his
neck as he playfully touches my tongue. I groaned.
"Pati ba naman dito sa hospital kinakain mo ang mukha ni Marsh?!" Ako na ang unang umiwas
at itinigil ang halik. Kalev don't have any plans to pull back! Pumasok si Nikos na may dalang
take out foods. Nakasunod naman si Tori at Elizabeth na hindi alam ang nangyari. Good thing.
Dahil baka magtanong ulit sila at wala akong maisagot.
"Remind me to beat Nikos later. Abala sa ginagawa natin." Bigla akong namula sa binulong ni
Kalev sa akin. Agad namang namang uminit ang pisnge ko dahil doon. Am I blushing? I guess
so.
"What happened? Bakit nasa pinto ka pa din Nikos? Paralyzed ka na di ka makagalaw?" Tori
asked with full of sarcasm. "You have no idea." He said. I looked away.
"Marsh what happened on your face? Bakit ang pula?"  Tori asked at tsaka pumasok sa loob.
"M-mainit lang."
"Eh? Pero naka AC 'tong buong room."
"Drop it Victoria. Nikos, I need to talk to you." Thanks Kalev for saving me. Ibinaba muna ni
Nikos ang dala niya at tsaka lumabas. "I'll be back shortly." Kalev said and look at me with his
eyes. I nodded then smile. And then he left the room.
"Soooo Marsh, both of you are in relationship?" I was caught off guard by Elizabeth.
"I d-don't know." I really don't have any idea. He always compliments me, kissed me, do unusual
things. Ano nga ba kami?
"It's strange. This is actually the first time na kusang lumalapit si Kalev sa isang babae. He's not
interested with girls." Sabi ni Elizabeth. I secretly smiled. Kinikilig ako sa naririnig ko. Sa
ngayon, hindi ko muna kailangan malaman kung ano ba kami. Go with the flow. As long as I
enjoy what's happening to me right now.
"So Marsh gusto mo ba si Kalev? Your heart is pounding like crazy whenever he's near? You
always wanted to kiss his lips? You can feel butterflies in your stomach when you hear his
voice?" Tori asked dreamily. Clasping her hands like she's imagining a Prince Charming.
Nakatingin silang dalawa sa akin—waiting for my answer.
"Y-yes." I answered. There's no need to hide it.
"You know if I were you Marsh tanungin mo si Kalev kung ano ba talaga kayo. Mahirap kasi ang
walang label sa relationship." By any chance, may gusto kaya sa akin si Kalev? I'm kinda
hoping because I think I like him too.
IT'S BEEN 3 DAYS. 3 days na akong na confine sa hospital and now I'm packing all my things
dahil ma didischarge na ako in any minute. Patong-patong na din ang utang ko kay Kalev baka
habang buhay na akong magtrabaho sa company niya. May patches pa rin ako sa may gilid ng
noo. He didn't want me to leave the hospital so soon pero wala naman akong magawa dito
kundi humiga 24 hours.
"Ready to go?" Tanong ni Kalev na prenteng nakaupo sa sofa. Tinatanong ko ang sarili ko kung
nagtatrabaho pa ba si Kalev dahil sa tatlong araw na nakalipas lagi siyang nandito sa hospital.
Buying me foods, because the hospital food sucks, taking care of me. Pupuntahan ko sana si
Marco pero masyadong maaga pa para sa visiting hour. Siguro dadalawin ko na lang siya kung
pwede na.
"Let's go." I said.
Tumayo siya at kinuha ang back pack ko. He opened the door for me and we walked side by
side.
"ANONG ginagawa ko dito?" I asked at pumasok sa loob ng penthouse niya. Ibinaba niya ang
back pack ko sa may couch at tinanggal ang black coat niya.
"Starting today, you'll live here." What? Live here? Dito sa penthouse niya? He must be kidding
me. But Kalev don't know how to kid. Lumakad ako papunta sa loob at nakita ko ang mga gamit
ko si apartment. Oh my. All packed na nakalagay sa may baba ng hagdanan.
"You should have told me na pinaalis na talaga ako ng tuloyan sa apartment na inuupuhan ko,
nakapag hanap sana ako agad ng bagong apartment." I told him. I also saw all the unopened
gifts.
"Ano ba sa sinabi ko ang hindi mo naintindihan? From now on, dito ka na titira. This will be your
home. No room for arguments." I rolled my eyes at him. Back being bossy. His voice holds
power and all his word are laws.
"But this is too much! You paid my hospital bills and then what? Ngayon gusto mo naman akong
dito patirahin sa penthouse mo?" I said while gritting my teeth. This is really too much. Napaka
laki na ng utang na loob ko kay Kalev. Hindi ko na alam kung paano ko mababayaran ang lahat.
"Your room will be upstairs." I scowled. I saw him carry one of my belongings at akmang
paakyat na siya sa taas. "Wait wait wait Kalev!" I said at pinigilan siya. He gave me a flat look.
"I can't live here. I just can't. Hindi magandang tingnan kung ang isang babae at lalaki ay
nakatira sa iisang bahay. Hindi naman tayo kasal at para tayong nag li-live in." Sabi ko habang
kinukuha ang gamit ko sa kamay niya. But he's so strong. Nakita ko ang pagdilim ng mukha
niya. He look at me with scrutinizing gaze. Maybe I could ask him right now if he likes me. It's
making me giddy and kinda excited too. Tatlong araw na din na pumapasok sa isip ko 'to.
"You are my PA. Mas madali tayong makakapagtrabaho kung malapit tayo. Any questions?" My
heart dropped. Sadness is creeping inside my system. I expected too much.
"I get it." I said. He cared because I'm one of his employee. He cared because I'm just his PA.
He cared because he thought that I'm just a charity case. Bakit ba nawala sa isip ko ang mga
bagay na 'to? Why did I forgot my place here in the society?
Thanks for reminding me, Kalev Stanislaski.

😘😍
***
Sorrry ngayon langg ulit. :< Thank you for reading

[ 24 CHAPTERXXII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXII: 2F hard and fast (fall/fuck)

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View
      Ang laki ng eye bags ko ng tumingin ako sa salamin. Halatang kulang na kulang sa tulog.
Kung hindi ba naman nagrereplay na parang sirang plaka sa utak ko na hinding hindi ako
magugustuhan ni Kalev edi sana nakatulog ako ng mahimbing. Am I experiencing a
heartbreak? Yes, yes I am. I understand what heartbreak is—it's not a feeling. It's a disease that
creeps inside your heart and eat you whole without you noticing. I washed my face and do my
morning rituals.
I went downstairs and saw Kalev, habang tinatanggal ang take out foods sa brown bag. He's
sweating at mukhang kagagaling lang niya sa pagja-jogging. He's wearing a gray shirt and a
sweat pants. Dayum hot. I mentally slapped my self for admiring him. Wala talaga akong
kadala-dala sa mga nangyayari.
"Sit down and eat." He keeps on ordering me around. Do this. Do that. I don't have the rights to
complain because I'm just an employee. I nodded and sat down. Pancakes and burger. He
looked fresh in the morning but still his face is serious at bihira lang ngumiti. All he could do best
is smirking and grinning and sometimes I want to wipe it off of his face.
I'm trying not to be affected by his presence. We eat in silence. Mas mabuti dahil wala akong
sasabihin sa kanya. Pagkatapos naming kumain I gathered all the used utensils at nilagay sa
sink. And started to wash the dishes.
"Iniiwasan mo ba ako?" I can feel Kalev's presence at my back. I can't see his expression so I
can't tell.
"No why should I do that?" A perfect answer. Kalev is really a mind reader. An assumption.
Swear. Wala kang maitatago sa kanya kahit isa.
"I'm talking to you Marsh. Face me." I didn't.
"Leave that goddamn dishes! It can fucking wait damnit!" Pasigaw na sabi niya. He really
possesses a bad temper. If something came up and not favorable in his side he'll go ballistic. I
dropped the sponge and the fork I'm holding and face him. His eyes were dominating. Like a
predator ready to attack the prey. Which is right now I'm the prey. My heart begun to pound so
fast. His mad. Nobody wants him mad.
"Hindi kita iniiwasan." I think I need to practice telling white lies without being caught. I'm a
terrible liar.
"Don't lie in front of my face, Marsh. I can feel it. You are avoiding me and I want to know why."
See. He can read the shit outta me. Wala akong lusot sa kanya. He touches my hand and pull
me. Pinning me in the wall. Jaw clenched. He's just so strong. "Tell me did I do something
wrong? I swear to all saints I didn't." He's pissed. Huminga muna ako ng malalim. He caged me
with his both hands. Nasa magkabilang gilid ang kamay niya at ang lapit ng mukha niya sa akin.
Hindi ko alam kung saan ako titingin. Sa mata, sa ilong, o sa kanyang labi.
Goodness! There's something in my stomach. May mga paru-paro na nagliliparan. My heart is
thumping like ba-doom ba-doom ba-doom.
I shook my head and sigh once again. "I'm just preoccupied. Malapit ng operahan si Marco
three days from now. I'm just worried and bothered at the same time." Way to go, Marsh. A
round of applause for me.
"Don't worry Alexander is a good doctor and expert on his field. He's the best Thoracic surgeon I
know."
I thought he will let go off me now. But still he didn't move a bit.
"Let go." I mumbled, looking down. I can't handle the intensity of his gaze. Too powerful for me
to handle. There's something in his eyes that I want to give in. Pagdating sa kanya I'm weak and
vulnerable which is I am not.
He leaned forward, his lips parted. Will he kiss me again? I tilt my neck and look at the side.
"Don't kiss me." I said with a hoarse voice. Ninety nine percent of me wanted to be kiss by Kalev
but I'm holding to the only one percent and told myself I need to resist what I'm feeling right now.
I saw how his face paled and shock is visible in his face. His lips twitches. 
"Wag mo akong hahalikan kung kailan mo gusto. Wala kang karapatang halikan ako.
Empleyado mo ako baka nakakalimutan mo. Don't kiss me like I'm your freakin' girlfriend! You're
confusing me! Stop it!" I shouted, heart beating so fast, my hands were trembling. Saan ako
nakakuha ng lakas loob para sigawan si Kalev?
"Pardon? Because I think I can't follow." His mouth snarled against my ears. I stop myself and
clenched my thighs. He snakes his arms to my waist and pull me closer to him. He hold my chin
using his free hand and make me look to his glaring eyes. Buong akala ko magagalit siya sa
sinabi ko at sa pagsigaw ko but to my surprise he's amused and smirking.
"Forgetting something? Aren't we, sweetheart?" He whispered in my ears. I was stoned in my
place, I can't move. "Don't let this slip in your mind again or else I will be mad. Very mad, my
darling." still whispering his hands moved and traveled from my neck to my hair. My heart raced.
Goosebumps.
His hand cupped my breast and lightly squeezed it. Suddenly, after 25 years of existence, I
forgot to breath.
"I owned you. You are mine to begin with. I can kiss you when or where I want. I can touch you.
Only I could do this to you." He gave my breast another squeeze before smoothing it around to
my neck and throat.
I gasped. He towered me with his height. "I..." Pati ba naman pagsasalita nakakalimutan ko?
Kalev is not good for me. I can't even remember my own name when he's near.
"I don't need your goddamn permission because this body is mine, your soul, and even your
heart. You. Are. Fucking. Mine." I wanted to ask what did he mean about owning my heart but it
easily slipped in my mind when he started kissing my neck and slightly nibbling it.
His hands traveled to my shoulders down to my back. He's doing it again.
"Stop seducing me." My voice is raspy. Can't even think straight. "I'm not even starting, baby."
He kissed my jawline, licking its way up to my ears and the he whispered huskily. "You better
stop thinking shit about what we are now." Sasagot na sana ako when his phone rang. He
fished it inside his pocket. Nakahawak pa rin siya sa bewang ko and I'm still pinned in the wall.
Wala yatang balak si Kalev na pakawalan ako. He give me another peck on the lips before
speaking.
"What do you need?" Hindi ako makagawa ng anumang ingay. The call must be important.
"I'm not going to the company. Don't ask." He muttered at tumingin sa akin na para bang ako
ang pinaguusapan. I wanted to ask because I'm curious. "I'm busy. I need to knock some sense
with my woman." Tumaas ang kilay ko sa sinabi niya. My woman? Ako ba ang tinutukoy niya? I
bite my lips, umaasa na naman ako sa wala.
"I want her to realize that she belongs to me." 
Say what?! Kumabog ng mabilis ang puso ko. I can't even breath! Ano bang pinagsasabi niya?!
The call ended at ibinalik niya sa bulsa ang phone niya. I gulped. What now?
"Ready to moan my name?"
I couldn't even remember mine.
***
Mz's Note: Soooo iuupdate ko din to kahit ang plano ko next week pa. Natutuwa ako sa

😊😊
[/flashes my sweet smile; sa mga nagcocomment at sa mga comments. Waaahhh thank you po
talaga nagkakaroon ako ng reasons para icontinue ang story hanggang dulo.

[ 25 CHAPTERXXIII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXIII: Golden Invitation

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View
    "Sumama ka na pleaseeee." Pareho kaming nasa cafeteria ni Erin. We're eating lunch.
Tinanong din ni Erin kung ayos lang ba ako. Napansin niya kasi ang band aid na nakalagay sa
may gilid ng noo ko.
Tapos na kaya ang meeting ni Kalev sa mga bagong investor? Kinain ba niya ang lunch na
niluto ko para sakanya? Simpleng sinabaw na hipon lang ang niluto ko para sa kanya.
"Marsh? Marsh?"
"Huh?" Bigla ko na lang sabi. Hindi ko pala namalayan na nakatulala na ako. "Ano yun Erin?
Sorry hindi ako nakikinig. May iniisip lang." sabi ko naman at flashed my awkward smile.
"Hay nako! Ikaw talaga." Sabi naman niya sa akin habang kumakain ng dala niyang baon.
"Sumama ka na sa party mamayang gabi. 40th Anniversary yun ng Stanislaski Enterprise.
Lahat ng empleyado imbitado." Napatango na lang ako sa sinabi ni Erin. 40 years na pala ang
kompanya. Ang tagal na pala.
"Sasama ka ba?" She said then smiled excitedly. Napaisip ako. Party? Partying is really not my
thing. "Hindi na lang siguro. Marami pa kasi akong gagawin." Sabi ko naman habang iniisip mga
gagawin ko bilang personal assistant ni Kalev. "Ano ka ba naman Marsh. Wala ka bang pahinga
kakatrabaho? Tsaka minsan lang mangyari to. Sumama ka na please." Pilit pa rin niya. Kung
alam niya lang na may trauma na ako kakapunta sa party na yan. Dalawang beses na akong
sumama kela Tori magparty sa bar at palagi na lang ako nagigising sa kama ni Kalev. Hindi
naman sa ayaw ko na ulit mangyari ang nangyari samin ni Kalev pero—oh my! Iniisip ko bang
may mangyayari ulit sa amin? Kahit kagabi nanaginip ako na nagtatalik kaming dalawa.
Pero hindi naman bar ang pupuntahan mo. Party! At mga empleyado naman ng kompanya ang
mga kasama mo. My subconscious said.
Huminga ako ng malalim bago sumagot. "Pero wala akong damit na susuotin." I said. Alangan
namang pumunta ako sa party na suot ay pencil cut na palda, blouse, at black stilettos na
sinusuot ko lagi sa opisina.
"Saan ba gaganapin ang party na yan?" I asked.
"Sa bar na pagmamay-ari ni Sir Stanislaski." May bar si Kalev? I didn't know about that. Pero sa
bar gaganapin? Hindi dapat ako sumama. Baka ano na namang kalokohan ang gawin ko kapag
may alak.
"Sa bar?!" Biglang napataas ang boses kaya napapalingon sa amin ang ibang empleyado na
nakarinig. "It's just that I can't trust myself when I'm drunk." Mahinang sabi ko.
"Let's go please." And she flashed her puppy dog eyes. Wag mo akong daanin sa ganyan,
please. Tori does that all the way and then voila napapayag niya ako agad. "You know you need
to lose sometimes. Get drunk. Have fun. It's only bad for you if you missed the chance. There's
a season in life where you can lose yourself for a moment." She added. "And ohh! Making
memories is a wonderful thing to do because you can treasure it hanggang sa tumanda ka. Isn't
it boring? Kung tatanda ka pero wala kang masayang ala-ala." Memories...making memories is
easy. Pero kung ano ang gusto mong makalimutan 'yun ang palagi mong naalala. Biglang
sumama ang pakiramdam ko. I'm full of memories but it's tainted with guilt and sufferings.
"I'll think about that." Sabi ko naman habang inaayos na ang lunch box ko at nilagay sa bag.
Tapos na nag lunch time. Kailangan ko ng bumalik sa office ni Kalev.
SABAY kaming naglakad ni Erin tutal parehong nasa 9th floor ang opisina namin. Habang nasa
loob ng elevator bumukas ito sa second floor at pumasok si Draco Lockhart—the Head
Engineer. Nakilala ko na nasa Engineering department siya dahil na rin kay Erin.
He's friendly to everyone at palaging nakangite.
"Marsh!" Gulat na sabi niya, may dala siyang mga folders. Ngumiti ako pabalik. "Hey Draco."
Tumingin siya sa akin. "Kilala mo pa pala ako." Hindi naman kasi mahirap makalimutan ang
pangalan niya dahil may 25% ng empleyadong babae dito may crush kay Draco. Thank you
Erin for the information.
"Pupunta ka sa party mamaya?" Napalingon bigla si Erin sa aming dalawa. "Buti na lang
nandito ka Draco pilitin mo si Marsh na pumunta waaahh gusto ko kasing makasama siya sa
party." Erin said and then she pouted. "Bakit naman hindi ka pupunta? Everyone is looking
forward for the party." Tanong ni Draco. Kung alam lang nila.
"Subukan ko." And laughed. "Itutuloy na ba natin ang naudlot na date natin?" Bigla akong
nagulat sa sinabi ni Draco. He's witty and full of life. Talaga bang itutuloy niya ang date date na
yan. "Wag kang magbiro ng ganyan." Sabi ko na lang.
"See you later Marsh. Sana makapunta ka." Ngiting-ngiti na sabi ni Draco at lumabas ng
elevator, hindi ko namalayan na nasa 7th floor na agad.
"Hoy ikaw ahh." Sabi naman ni Erin sa gilid ko at kinurot pabiro ang tagiliran ko. "Ha? Bakit
naman?" Naguguluhang sabi ko. "Niyaya ka pala ni Draco na makipagdate. Ang ganda mo
banda dyan." Pabirong sabi niya at tumawa. Ang cute ng tawa ni Erin, parang bata kaya
natatawa na lang din ako. "Ano ka ba. Nagbibiro lang yun at diba ikaw na din nagsabi sa akin
na mabait siya sa lahat ng babae dito? Siguro hindi lang ako ang sinabihan niya na
makipagdate sa kanya." Sabi ko na lang.
"Oo mabait siya sa lahat pero hindi naman siya nagyayaya ng date kahit kanino, no. Haba ng
hair mo girl. Kabog." Lumabas kami ng elevator ng makarating na kami sa 9th floor.
Nang makarating kami sa table ni Erin pinigilan niya akong maglakad papasok sa loob ng
opisina ni Kalev. "Wait lang Marsh. Puwede bang pakiabot naman 'tong invitation kay Sir
Stanislaski. Kadarating lang niyan kanina. Hindi ko kasi naibigay agad dahil may meeting siya
kanina." Sabi niya at iniabot niya ang isang invitation. "Thank you." Tinanggap ko ang invitation.
I bid my goodbye at pumasok sa loob ng opisina. The invitation is gold in color. Pati ba naman
invitation pang mayaman. May ribbon na kulay pula at may stamp na nakalagay.
"Where the hell have you been?" Galit na sabi ni Kalev ang sumalubong sa akin. Bigla akong
napapikit. He's in a bad mood. Kaninang umaga naman ng pumasok kami ng sabay, good mood
pa siya. Bipolar talaga tong isang to, hmp.
"Sa cafeteria. Kasama ko si Erin kumain sa baba." Tinaasan niya ako ng kilay. "Diba dapat ako
ang kasabay mo kumain? At hindi ka nagpaalam kung saan ka pupunta! I got worried when
you're out of sight. Baka biglang may mangyaring masama sayo." Nakagat ko ang labi ko and
my heart is beating so darn fast when I heard he's worried about me. His tie were loose, one of
his hand is place on his hips at ang isa naman ay nasa bridge ng nose niya—pinching it like
he's controlling his anger.
"Next time tell me everything. Are we clear?" I nodded my head. "I will." The least I want to do is
to make him angry. "What are you holding?" Sabi naman niya, bigla kong naalala na
pinapabigay pala to ni Erin sa akin. He sat on his swivel chair, nakatayo naman ako sa may
harapan niya. "An invitation." Akmang ibibigay ko na sana sakanya at babalik na ako sa station
ko ng magsalita ulit siya. "Read it." Bossy! Tinanggal ko ang pagka ribbon at binuksan ang
invitation. There's a 1/4 scented paper sa loob at kinuha ko to.
"A recital competition..." my heart is beating so fast not because of Kalev, kundi dahil sa
binabasa ko, my hands trembled in fear. "A v-violinist t-together w-with a-an a-accompanist." My
voice were raspy. And some images flows inside my mind. Memories I want to forget. 
"Ma naman. Please pumunta naman kayo sa recital." Naiiyak na pahayag ko sa cellphone na
hawak ko. Fidgeting my hands to the dress I'm wearing. This is my first time playing. Ginawa ko
talaga ang best ko para mapasok sa recital na to.
"Pero anak—walang magbabantay kay Marco." I'm so frustrated. Gusto ko lang naman ipakita
kela Mama ang accomplishment ko. I want them to be proud of me.
"Ma!" Napataas ang boses ko. Just like a teenager that I am, I got angry. "Please naman! Kahit
ngayon lang..."
"No...no..." naihulog ko ang invitation na hawak ko sa marble tiles. Napahawak ako sa may sofa
to support myself from falling. My whole is trembling. Hot liquid flows from my eyes.
"Marsh!" Tawag ni Kalev sa akin. All I can hear is the faint voice of Kalev calling out my name
but I'm stuck inside my mind.
"They're dead. Pasensya ka na iha. Ginawa na namin ang lahat pero masyadong malakas ang
pagkabangga ng kotse sa isang truck. Sabi ng truck driver masyadong malakas ang ulan kaya
hindi niya masyadong makita ang daan..." maraming sinabi ang doktor pero wala akong
mapakinggan kundi ang unang dalawang salita na sinabi niya. Wala na sila Mama at Papa.
Naupo ako sa sahig na umiiyak. Iyak lang ako ng iyak habang sumisigaw.
"Kung hindi lang natuloy ang recital edi sana buhay pa rin ang kapatid ko."
"Marsh! Marsh wake up! Why are you crying?! Marsh!" And then everything went black.
***

[ 26 CHAPTERXXIV ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXIV: What she had lost

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
        Every person arrives in a critical moment. A juncture of moving forward and moving on. But
still I am stuck in the past who can't even forgive my own self. I'm blaming not only myself but
also the man who killed my parents.
The cold breeze cascading down unto my body. The trees swayed and dances into the wind.
The only sound that I managed to hear is the rustling of the dried leaves. I was terribly shaking. I
can feel my insanity fading.
Nakatingin ako sa sa dalawang lapida. Crying while carrying my infant brother. Paano ko na
haharapin ang buhay kung wala kayo. Mama, hindi ko kayang wala kayo. Sino ba ang may
gustong mahiwalay sa magulang. I can't live without my mother and father. Patong patong na
ang sakit na nararamdaman ko. Ang pagsisisi. Kung alam ko lang na mangyayari to edi sana
hindi ko na lang sila pinilit. Hindi mo talaga malalaman ang halaga ng isang tao hanggang sa
mawala sila sa buhay mo. Hindi mo alam kung kailan sila mawawala kaya hanggang nandito pa
sila at nakakasama mo pa iparamdam mo ang pagmamahal mo sa kanila. And I failed to do
that. Puro sarili ko na lang ang iniisip ko. Hindi ko man lang naiisip ang paghihirap nila. Ang
sakripisyo nila para sa akin. Lagi ko na lang nakikita ang mali at hindi pinapansin ang tama. At
ngayon wala na sila, hindi ko man lang nasabi lahat ng gusto kong sabihin.
Name: Martha D. Lahm Born: December 04, 1972Died: March 25, 2011 In loving memories of
your family.
Name: Gregory S. LahmBorn: February 18, 1970Died: March 25, 2011In loving memories of
your family.
"I'm sorry." I cried and cried. Sa isang iglap na wala lahat ng meron ako. "I'm really sorry." I
stood there with no strength to fight for the future. Sumabay ang pagpatak ng ulan sa pagtulo ng
luha sa aking mata. I'm a terrible daughter.
"I'm sorry..." I mumbled and feel my cheeks is wet from tears. Nagising ako sa di kilalang
kwarto. Kaya ang unang tingnan ko ay kung mayroon ba akong suot na damit. I sighed in relief.
Suot ko pa din ang blouse ko.
"Alexander what the fuck should I do!? Can you stop having sex and answer me properly! And
stop groaning in the phone. It's gross."
Tumayo ako mula sa pagkahiga. Nakatalikod si Kalev sa akin at mukhang may kausap sa
kabilang linya. He's no longer wearing a coat at tanging long sleeves na kulay puti na lang ang
suot niya.
"I've been calling you for almost ninth times at ngayon mo lang sinagot ang tawag ko! No, you
listen to me, Marsh fainted..."
"Kalev..." I called his name to tell him I'm fine now. Napalingon siya sa akin na nakakunot ang
noo at agad ibinaba ang phone at lumapit sa akin. He's fuming mad. Inihanda ko ang sarili ko sa
pagsigaw niya but he didn't. Nagulat ako sa sunod niyang ginawa. He hugged me. "Don't do it
again, please." I stayed rooted in my place. "I thought something bad happened to you."
Humiwalay siya ng yakap.
"You okay? Masakit ba ang ulo mo? Masama ba ang pakiramdam mo? Tell me at dadalhin kita
agad sa hospital." There was a faint smile on my lips. He's cute. Kalev Stanislaski is always
there in times of need. He's always there to comfort me. Masyado na akong nasasanay sa
presensiya niya. "Damn it Marsh! Just tell me where it hurts!" Umiling ako. He frowned at umupo
sa tabi ko. "Ayos na ako." Sabi ko. "Bullshit." He cursed. "Don't give me shit right now because
I'm not buying it. Alexander told me you lose consciousness because of the lack of blood supply
to the brain."
"May naalala lang ako..." mahinang sabi ko sa kanya. I don't want to bother him with my own
problem. I need to slay it with my own. Nakakapagod na din kung gabi gabi na lang pareho lagi
ang panaginip ko. My memories is haunting me.
"...the death of my parents." Bigla siyang napatigil sa sinabi ko. Para siyang may nakitang multo
pero pinagsawalang bahala ko na lang ang nakita kong emosyon sa mukha ni Kalev.
"Nasaan tayo?" Tanong ko ng maalala kong nasa hindi ako pamilyar sa kwartong ito. "Office."
He said using his cold voice. Bumalik na naman sa normal ang boses niya. Gone the worried
voice bumalik sa pagiging business type. Nasasanay na rin ako sa kanya. Tinuyo ko ang luha
ko sa mata at tsaka sa pisnge.
"Ang ganda dito." I said at inikot ang paningin ko sa buong kwarto. Hindi masyadong malaki at
hindi masyadong maliliit. Sakto lang para magkasya ang isang king size bed sa kwarto.
Tatayo na sana ako sa pagkaupo sa kama ng hilahin niya ang kamay ko at inihiga sa kama.
Bigla akong napasigaw sa ginawa ni Kalev. Nakahiga ako sa kama at katabi ko siya. Nakaunan
ako sa braso niya at nakayakap naman sa bewang ko ang isang kamay niya. Napakalapit
namin sa isa't-isa. I can even feel his heartbeat.
"Kalev..." pagtatawag ko sa atensiyon niya. "Let's just stay like this for a moment." He muttered
and touches some strands of my hair and put it at the back of my ears. He's voice is
somewhat...sad. Hindi ako magaling magbasa ng emotion ng tao pero nararamdaman ko na
malungkot siya. He's still hugging me at ang dalawang kamay ko ay nakalagay sa dibdib niya.
"I'm sorry...I'm going to give back what you've lost." He whispered and kisses my forehead.
Naguluhan ako sa sinabi niya. "Hindi kita maintindihan."
Anong ibig niyang sabihin? "You don't need to." He's really intriguing and mysterious. "A life with
no sufferings is not a life at all." He said as he look at me with those eyes. Those eyes that
speaks loudly that I should obeyed him. I stayed quiet and pressed my lips with myself. It's like
he knows something about me. Something that I didn't even know about myself. Being in his
arms makes me feel at ease. Freedom from pain and discomfort. He managed to enter my heart
in just a second. What power did he possessed?
"Live your life in a way you want to live it. So you will have no regrets."
I moved closer towards him and close my eyes. I want to feel more. I want to feel his warmth. "I
lo—" and I doze off to sleep.
THIS is one of the rarest time that I sleep peacefully. Nagising ako na wala na sa tabi ko si
Kalev. Inayos ko muna ang sarili ko bago lumabas ng kwarto. At nakita ko si Kalev na nakaupo
sa swivel chair niya at mukhang nagtatrabaho na.
"Get ready because we're going to the party." Napatingin ako sa wall clock it's already 5:00P.M.
Ganun na ba talaga ako katagal natulog? Tapos na ang work time ko.
Naglakad ako papunta sa table ko. "Hindi ako pupunta." I said habang iniisip ang trabaho ko sa
bar. Hindi naman puwedeng hindi na lang ako pumasok habang hindi nagpapaalam sa
manager. Hindi naman siguro tama yun. Akala ko magagalit si Kalev. Because he takes no for
an answer. Mabuti na lang at hindi na siya nagsalita pa. He's face is calm. Mas mabuting
nakikita ko siyang ganito he seems cool. Pero kapag galit he's hot and I don't want him to be
like that—looking so damn hot. It kinda turn me on. Nakakahiyang umamin pero yun ang totoo.
Inayos ko ang gamit ko at nilagay sa loob ng bag ko.
"Ahm..." bakit ang hirap magpaalam. "I need to go." I said. He just nodded his head without
even looking at me. Hmp. Lumabas ako sa opisina niya habang nakasimangot.
''Marsh!" Salubong sa akin ni Erin ng makalabas ako sa opisina ni Kalev. That bipolar man!
Kanina niyayakap yakap pa ako pero ngayon ni hindi man lang makatingin sa akin.
"Pupunta ka sa party diba?" I felt so guilty about saying no, but I need to. "Sorry Erin. Pero may
trabaho pa akong pupuntahan." Bumagsak ang balikat niya at nawala ang ngite sa labi niya.
"Hays. Sayang naman. Pero bawi ka next time ahh?"
"Oo naman." I said.
NAKARATING ako agad sa Topless Bar, mabuti na lang hindi ako nalate kahit traffic papunta
dito. 7 P.M. na at bakit wala pa ding tao dito? Dapat sa mga oras na to marami ng taong ang
pumupunta. Weird.
Sinuot ko ang uniform ko at tinaas ang buhok.
"Bakit wala pang tao?" I asked. Dahil ngayon lang nangyari to. Tumingin naman sa akin si
Janice na naglalagay ng make up sa mukha niya.
"Pinareserved ang bar. Magpaparty ang may-ari nitong bar. Yun ang pagkakaalam ko."
Napatango ako sa sinabi ni Janice. May party din palang magaganap dito. Pupunta din naman
pala ako sa party ang pinagkaiba lang ako ang magsiserve sa kanila ng inumin. I chuckled.
Lumabas ako sa locker room at akmang magsisimula ng magtrabaho ng biglang nasa harapan
ko si maldita—si Miss Gina. Ang masungit na manager ng bar. Palaging nakataas ang kilay niya
at parang palaging menopausal.
"Pinapatawag ka ni boss sa office niya." Biglang akong kinabahan sa sinabi ko. Bakit ang
ipinapatawag ng boss ng bar at bakit sa office pa mismo! Ang alam ko hindi pa ako nalilate sa
trabaho—muntikan lang. At tsaka wala pa akong nababasag na mamahaling baso dito.
"Bakit po?" I asked. Dahil wala talaga akong idea kung bakit ako pinapatawag.
"Paano ko malalaman? Ako ba ang boss dito?" Masungit na sabi niya sa akin at umalis.
Bumalik ako papasok sa loob ng locker room.
"Janice? Alam mo ba kung saan ang office ng boss dito?" Dahil wala akong kaalam alam kung
saan. Tumingin naman sa akin si Janice na nagtataka. "Bakit mo naman tinatanong?" I
shrugged.
"Pinapatawag daw ako." I said. Lumapit naman siya sa akin. "Kapag nakita mo ang boss
sabihin mo sa akin kung gwapo ahh. Picturan mo din para makita natin kung puwedeng
pagpantasyahan. Yieehh." I face-palmed.
"Ang alam ko sa 3rd floor lang yun." Napatango na lang ako. "Sige salamat." I said and bid a
goodbye. Lumabas ako at nagsimulang umakyat ng hagdan. Ilang palapag lang naman ang bar
pero malaki bawat floor. Sa second floor naman ang VIP room. Pagkaakyat ko sa third floor
napakalinis at napakatahimik. Ngayon lang ako nakapunta dito dahil pinagbabawal na basta na
lang umakyat dito sa taas. Iisa lang ang pinto kaya I assumed, sa loob nito ang office ng may-ari
ng bar. Kinakabahan akong kumatok ng pinto.
"Come in." He's voice is familiar. Narinig ko na siya dati pa. Huminga muna ako ng malalim
bago buksan ang pinto. At tumambad sa akin ang mukha ni Kalev.
Kalev? Si Kalev Stanislaski ang boss ko!?
***
Hanggang dito na lang po munaaaaa. Xoxo.

[ 27 CHAPTERXXV ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXV: Deep and intoxicating

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View
          "You are my boss!?" Hindi makapaniwalang banggit ko. He's being cocky, I can tell. He
shrugged his shoulders like he's stating the obvious. All this time, sa kanya pa din ako
nagtatrabaho. What a coincidence. Maybe—not. That's why his voice were familiar when I met
him at the La Casa. Too deep like he's speaking with your soul. He's the one who saved me.
"Close your mouth, Marsh. Baka bigla na lang tumulo ang laway mo." So arrogant. Sinamaan ko
siya ng tingin at tinikom ang bibig ko. Masisisi mo ba ako? Masyado lang akong nagulat sa mga
pangyayari. He's amused! It's written all over his face!
"Move closer." Naalala kong nasa may pintuan pa rin ako ng office niya. I closed the door and
stepped forward. Gone the expensive suit. He's now wearing black long sleeves that hugs every
muscle and jeans that suits him very well. Mas na emphasize ang mahaba niyang hita. Parang
gusto kong hawakan ang matipuno niyang dibdib. Bigla akong napailing sa iniisip ko. There's
something inside me stirred, may namumuo na init.
"I said move closer. Hindi mo ba ako narinig or sadyang ayaw mo lang akong pakinggan?" He
raised one of his brows. Ano na naman bang problema ng lalaking to!? Humakbang ako ng
dalawang beses hanggang nasa harapan na niya ako.
"Bakit mo ba ako pinta—" naputol ang sasabihin ko ng bigla niyang hilahin ang kamay ko at
napaupo tuloy ako sa lap niya. Biglang namula ang mukha ko. I'm sitting on his lap! At ang
dalawang kamay ko nakahawak sa balikat niya to support my weight. "I told you to move
closer." He whispered, looking at my lips. I can feel something is poking my bottom. Simple
contact yet makes my body burned.
"A-ano yun?" My face paled. He looked at me—still amused. Chuckling, he answered. "That's
my erection."
"W-what?" Hindi makapaniwalang tanong ko.
"My erection, Marsh. It happens all the time when I'm just looking at you or when I'm dreaming
about you. It. Makes. Me. Damn. Hard." He grabbed my waist. "I want to kiss you, feel you, taste
you, lick you."
"I want to screw you hard."
It's now or never, Marsh. I told myself. I want Kalev as much as he wants me too.
"Press that cunning smile against my wanting lips."
No exhibition done. He landed his lips on mine. Seeking for entrance. I let him in. We kissed
passionately. I run my fingers to the thick hank of his hair. Naramdaman ko ang pag ngite niya.
Tumaas ang halik niya at bumulong.
"You're learning fast, sweetheart. It makes me proud." Kissing my ears down to my jawline. "I
learned from the best." I mumbled. He started grabbing my ass. Half of my mind was focused on
what he was doing at my ass—spanking it. Bumaba ang halik niya sa leeg ko. Sorry for being a
bad girl.
Pumasok ang isang kamay niya sa loob ng suot kong uniform. Caressing my body. His tongue,
dragging the way to my neck and planting small kisses. I tilt my neck to have a better access.
"I want you naked."
I moaned, nang hawakan niya ang dibdib ko and squeezed it a little. "Ohhh myyy..." hindi ko
alam kung saan ako titingin. Half of my mind was focused on what he was doing with my boobs
and  one of his hand on my ass. And don't forget he's sucking my neck too! His kisses were wet
and needy.
"Ohh Kaleeeev." He teared my uniform. Exposing my brassiere. Nagulat ako sa ginawa niya. I
don't have an extra uniform!
"What did you do?" I frantically said. He threw it on the floor and all the buttons were scattered.
"You won't be needing it anymore, my princess." His eyes were burning. "I want to do it now. In
my office. As much I want to finger fuck you, let's have a quickie instead. We still need to go to
the party." It send shivers down to my spine. He unhooked my bra and let leaned onto my naked
breast. He put it inside his mouth. Taking turns from left to right. Squeezing it tightly until I
begged for more.
Pinching the crown and let his tongue slides. "Ohhhh..."
"You're already wet for me." His voice were rugged and raspy. He cupped my pus$y even I'm
still wearing a clothes in the lower body.
Humigpit and hawak ko sa buhok ni Kalev. His touching me down there. Rubbing it at mas
lalong lumakas ang ungol ko. He can do magic.
"Stand up." Tumayo ako ng nagsalita siya. Coldness cascade into my body pero mas nanaig
ang init when he pulled down the underwear I'm wearing. "So damn hot." I began to get
conscious with his glare. Matiim na nakatingin sa akin si Kalev. Checking me out. Nakatayo siya
sa harapan ko. Towering me with his height. "Fuck. You're so sexy." Fluttered, I flashed a sweet
smile but came as a grin.
"Forget about the quickie. I want my fingers inside your wet pusSy." My thighs throbbed when
he started to talk dirty. Kahinaan ko na rin to. When he's talking dirty and kinky my knees
wobble.
I watched him unbuckled his pants and unzip his zippers. He's so hot. He's masculine and so
perfect. Perfect pagnasaan gabi gabi.
"Turn around and bend over." Agad kong ginagawa ang gusto niya. I bite my lips and got
excited kung anong gagawin niya sa akin. I can't see him because I'm facing backwards. He
spanks my asS and groaned.
He slid his hands closer and closer to my womanhood. I tensed up and throw mg head back
when he inserted two fingers inside me.
"Ohhhh...Kaleeevvv! Oh my!" Humawak ako sa gilid ng table to support my balance. I can feel
his fingers inside me. Up down. Up down.
"I think I'm coming." I said—shaking. "Just let it flow, sweetheart." And so I did. My juices
dripped from my thighs. Hindi pa ako nakakahinga ng maluwag matapos akong labasan when
he inserted his hard thing inside mine.
"Ahh shit." I heard him groaned. "So fucking tight." He slide it inside and go deeper and deeper.
I hold my breath. Not even thinking straight. My inner thighs clenched tightly to his manhood. It
started to throbbed so I started to tighten him up. "What the fuck. Where did you learn that? Oh
fuck. Fuck." Every time my walls squeezed him, he let out a sexy groan. I started to meet every
thrust.
"If you keep doing that I'll cum easily, ohh fuck. Damn." He massaged my breast while thrusting
inside. Pounding as my legs shaking and asking for more.
Deep and intoxicating as our session goes on.
"LET'S go and join the party, Marsh. You don't need to be shy. Nakita ko na lahat ang tinatago
mo sa loob ng damit mo." Uminit ang pisnge ko sa sinabi ni Kalev. Nakasuot na siya ng
maayos. Habang ako naman suot ang damit na dala niya. Nagtataka na nga ako kung bakit
palagi na lang siyang may extrang damit ng babae.
He gave me another dress to wear. It's a white dress at abot hanggang sa tuhod ko. Matapos ng
nangyari sa amin, we cleaned ourselves and ta-da here I am wearing a beautiful dress. My hair
is tied in a bun and put just a face powder on my face.Gusto kong sampalin ang sarili ko dahil
nagpadala ako sa init ng katawan. Pero hindi ako nagsisisi na nakipagtalik ako kay Kalev.
Siguro nagugulo na ang utak ko. Goodness. I think I'm improving? Dahil kahit wala pa akong
nainom na alak, I let him do things in my body.
Nahihiya akong tumingin kay Kalev and then pouted.
"Stop pouting. I might think that you want more." I rolled my eyes at him. At unang naglakad
palabas ng opisina. I heard him tsked at ramdam ko na sumunod siya.
Mabilis ang lakad ko samantalang siya effortless maglakad even I'm half running naabutan pa
rin niya ako. Blame him for having a long legs.
"Stop running Marsh."
Pagbaba namin sa second floor where the VIP is located, pinagtitinginan kami ng empleyado ng
bar at ibang empleyado ng kompanya. Maybe curious why the CEO is walking besides me.
Mas binilisan ko ang lakad ko pababa sa first floor. Puno na ng tao at may ibang sumasayaw sa
dance floor. Ang tagal ko palang nagstay sa office ni Kalev. I bite my lips.
"Marsh! I thought you're not coming?" It was Erin. May hawak itong alak sa kanang kamay and
swaying her body to the music.
"Trust me, I didn't even know what happened." Sabi ko na lang sa kanya. "Want to have a
drink?" Alok siya sa akin. Sinabayan ko siyang maglakad. Buti na lang hindi na ako sinundan ni
Kalev. I dunno where he is. Hindi naman sa hinahanap ko siya pero nagpapasalamat ako dahil
nakalayo ako sa kanya. Hindi ako makahinga ng maayos habang katabi siya.
"Hindi ako iinom." Sabi ko sa kanya. "Ngayon lang naman to at tsaka libre 'to, no." Nilibot ko
muna ang paningin ko sa buong lugar bago tumango. "Sige, pero isa lang." I can't trust myself
when drunk. Inabutan niya ako ng alak. It's color blue. At nakalagay sa maliit na brandy glass.
"Adios Motherfucker ang pangalan ng iniinom mo." I almost spit it buti na lang at nalunok ko
agad lahat.
"Ang weird ng pangalan." I said. She chuckled showing me her white perfect aligned teeth.
"Meron pa ngang sex on my face, bend over sherley, read-headed slut na pangalan ng drinks."
And my attention focuses at the exit. Nakatingin ang manager ng bar sa akin. More like glaring
at me and fuming mad. What did I do?

😭
***
Series 2 and 3 is posted. Synopsis and Prologue lang yun. Sana magustuhan niyo.
maguupdate lang ako ng maguupdate kahit walang magbasa :< Gusto ko kasi makatapos ng
story dito sa watty. Lagi na lang puro simula at hindi natatapos.

[ 28 CHAPTERXXVI ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXVI: Without music

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View          "Marsh! Mabuti na lang nakarating ka. Gusto mo talaga ako
makadate, no?" Sabi ni Draco at lumapit sa pwesto namin ni Erin. I also saw my manager,
sneered with disgust and walk turning her heels away. What's her deal?
"Draco." I said, welcoming his presence.
"Hi Draco. You look handsome." Sabi ni Erin habang may hawak na kopita na may laman na
alak. "Matagal na naman akong guwapo." Nilagay ni Erin ang kamay niya sa balikat ni Draco.
"Pahawak ahh. Baka kasi madala ako ng kahanginan mo. Hindi ka man lang ba maging
humble." Natawa na lang ako sa usapan ng dalawa. From wild and loud music napaltan to ng
sweet music. Yung ibang mga taong wild na wild sumasayaw sa dance floor ay nagsialisan at
may iba naman na pumupunta at may kasamang mga partner. Bumaling naman ang atensiyon
ni Draco sa akin.
"May I have this dance?" Draco said as he bow his head and give his hand. Erin squealed like a
teenager. "Ano ka ba Marsh tanggapin mo na naghihintay na ang Prince Charming mo." I
become hesitant. "Hindi ako sumasayaw." Gusto ko sanang tumanggi but Erin pushed me
playfully kaya bigla na lang akong lumapit causing me to put my hand on Draco's hand at ang
isang kamay naman ay napahawak sa dibdib ni Draco. Erin!!! Sigaw sa isip ko. "Shall we?"
"Uh—oh...okay." I said with defeat. Wala na akong magagawa dahil nahawakan ko na ang
kamay ni Draco. I don't have any choice but to dance with him. Sige, ngayon lang naman. Next
time, wala na. He smiled at me sweetly.
Lumakad kami sa gitna at nagsimulang sumayaw.
No I'm never gonna leave you darlingNo I'm never gonna go regardlessEverything inside of me,
is leaving in your heartbeat
Nakahawak ang kamay ko sa balikat niya while him—nakahawak sa bewang ko. We're inches
away and I felt, nothing. Parang nakikipagsayaw lang ako sa isang matalik na kaibigan.
Even when all the lights are fadingEven then, if your hope was shakingI'm here holding on
His eyes were fixed on mine and I don't know what to react. Kung titingin ba ako sa mata niya o
iiwas. We swayed and dance to the music.
I will always be yours for ever and moreFor the push and the pullI still drown in your loveAnd
drink till I'm drunkAnd all that I've done, is it ever enough
"Aren't we too close?" I said as I stepped backward. He flashed his cheeky smile. "Ngayon lang
kitang mahahawakan ng ganito kalapit. Lubusin ko na while it lasts." Naguluhan ako sa sinabi ni
Draco. He sighed.
"I like you, Marsh. I like you a lot. Maybe it started when you bumped on me. I didn't have a
chance to get close to you. May pumipigil eh. Even I compete with him, I think at the end ako
din ang matatalo. I don't want to fight with a losing battle." And then he chuckled, unamused.
I'm hanging on a line here babyI need more than ifs and maybesWe'll come down from the
highest heights
"I—I don't know what to say, Draco." I said while biting my lips. He didn't made me nervous it's
just that I'm choosing the right word to say. I don't want to be impulsive, I may hurt him more.
"Friendship is all I can offer." I muttered.
Still searching for the reason whyAnd now I know what it's like,Reaching from the other
sideAfter all that I've done
He smiled. He still smiled at me. "Alam ko naman ang sagot mo. Gusto ko lang sabihin na gusto
kita and then move on with my life. I just want you to know what I feel. Can I hug you for the last
time?"
"Of course." I hugged him first and then tap his shoulders like cheering him up.
"You really want to die, Lockhart?! How many times do I have to tell you to fuck off!" And then
Kalev appeared. Pushing Draco away. Kaya napahiwalay ako ng yakap sa kanya. Kalev hold
my waist possessively pulling me away from Draco's touch. My heart instantly beats so fast.
Kalev caught me by surprise. Like a rabbit caught by a fox.
"Stealing away my date again?" Draco said while smirking. Gusto ko sanang sabihin kay Draco
that he don't need to provoke Kalev. He can do unnecessary stuff when mad. After all he is
Kalev Stanislaski who can't handle his emotion when angry.
Akmang susuntukin na ni Kalev si Draco ng pumwesto ako sa gitna nilang dalawa. Masamang
tumingin sa akin si Kalev but I didn't blinked.
"You need to move Marsh! I'm gonna kill that son of a bitch!" He said angrily. I shook my head.
"Stop the violence, Kalev. It won't do you any good. Please." I said warily. I really hate it when
Kalev is acting like a serial killer.
"He touched what's mine! Hindi ko mapapalagpas ang ginawa niya! I don't want to hurt you
Marsh so better yet move on the side." His voice boomed. Making a deep hollow sound. I didn't
know what meant about touching what's mine. Pero wala namang ginawang masama si Draco.
He didn't deserve to face the wrath of Kalev Stanislaski. I hug Kalev. Calming him down.
Niyakap ko lang siya kahit pinagtitinginan na kami ng mga tao. He just stood there but I
continue to hug him.
"Please. Don't do this. Walang ginawang masama si Draco. Calm down Kalev." I soothed
bringing solace and assurance. He let out a hard groan indicative of annoyance.
He gripped my hand and hold it firmly pulling me to the crowd.
Hinila niya ako palabas ng bar, kung saan nakapark ang kotse niya. He's still pissed.
"Kalev..." tawag ko sa pangalan niya tumingin siya sa akin ng masama. "What?" He said
harshly. "I don't know why I'm telling you this but I feel like I owe you an explanation. Draco said
he likes me—" he groaned in protest. "—but I told him that friendship is all I can offer." I looked
down fidgeting my hands.
"That bastard confessed his feelings? Kahit anong gawin ko nakahanap pa rin siya ng
pagkakataon na kausapin ka. Fuck. And he dance with you! He touched you!" Galit na sabi niya,
frowning.
I explained what happened to him. Kung bakit sumayaw kaming dalawa ni Draco. Kung hindi ko
lang alam ang ugali ni Kalev baka isipin ko na nagseselos siya. I wanted to assumed and keep
my hopes up but there's still a part of me na nagsasabing bakit siya magseselos, we're not even
a couple.
"But it doesn't mean you owe him a dance. You should have declined. I'm the one who should
be dancing with you. Bakit ba ang bilis ng lakad mo kanina, I won't eat you. I pushed myself to
the crowd just to find you." I became speechless. He already ate me, and I let myself cūm.
Biglang akong uminit sa naisip ko pero ipinagsawalang bahala ko na lang yun.
"By and chance, are you jealous?" I didn't expect his answer. Tumigil ang oras when I heard him
speak.
"Yes! I'm fucking jealous! I am!"
"Why?"
"I should be dancing with you. Holding your closer, holding your hands, your waist. I should be
the man who's looking on your eyes 'till the music stops." Lumapit siya sa akin at ako naman ay
nanatiling nakatayo sa kinakatayuan ko.
He holds my waist pulling me closer. I automatically rested my hand on his masculine shoulders.
My heart beats rapidly, curious on what will happen next. Kanina habang sinasayaw ako ni
Draco, I felt nothing but with Kalev halos lumabas na ang puso ko sa dibdib ko. I can't even
breathe properly. "Anong ginagawa natin?" I curiously ask. "We're dancing."
"Without music?"
"Without music."
This may not be the romantic place to dance but for me it is.
***
Mz's Note: ta-da~ sana magustuhan niyo. Update ulit wala pa kasi akong prof :< hahahaha.

[ 29 CHAPTERXXVII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXVII: The search

Marsh Lahm's Point of View          "You'll gonna be alright, Marco. Pupunta ka sa wonderland.
You will play there together with Hatter. Diba siya ang favorite character mo sa Alice and the
Wonderland? At pagkagising mo magiging okay ka na at wala ka ng sakit. Diba gusto mo yun?"
I ruffled my brother's hair and smiled at him. Araw ng operasyon ni Marco ngayon.
Unwanted tears pricked my eyes but I immediately wipe it using my palm. I don't want to appear
weak in front of my younger brother. Finally, maooperahan na siya. He don't need to stay inside
the apartment alone while I'm working. Makakapaglaro na siya kasama ang mga batang ka
edad niya. I can now send him to school without any complications. He can not eat whatever he
wants. Hindi na puro gamot ang iniinom niya. He's too young for that pero ang dami na niyang
iniinom na gamot. Kung puwede lang akuin ang lahat. I don't want to see him suffering.
"Talaga ate? Puwede na akong makapaglaro at papasok na din ako sa school?" His eyes
sparkled due to excitement. I laughed with his expression.
"Oo kahit kailan mo gusto pero syempre kailangan mo pa rin magaral." I said.
"Oo naman ate. Magaaral ako ng mabuti dahil gusto ko paglaki ko maging kagaya ni Kuya Doc."
Proud of his answer, I tickled him.
"I just want you to be happy, Marco." Kumunot ang noo ko sa sinabi niya. "Sino namang Kuya
Doc?" Umupo siya sa kama at tumingin sa akin.
"Si Kuya Alexander ate. Gusto ko maging doctor. Gusto ko din na gumamot ng ibang tao na
may sakit sa puso. Para hindi sila mahirapan at makapaglaro din sila hanggang sa gusto nila." I
almost cried with his answer. I hugged him tightly while tapping his back.
I'm so proud of him. With his little mind, he already know what he wanted in life. Every people
has a dream in life. A strongly desired goals and purpose. Dreams are what makes people keep
on going. Dreams that they want to reach when the right time comes but not for me—dumating
na ang tamang oras para sa akin, but I gave it up. I surrendered. I gave up my dreams.
"Alam mo ate, kapag naging doctor na ako. Gusto kong tumigil ka na din sa pagtatrabaho dahil
ako na ang magtatrabaho sayo. Hindi mo na kailangan umuwi ng gabi."
The moment I surrendered and gave up my dreams I found a new reason to move forward, to
keep on going. And that's because of my younger brother.
"Marco." Two nurse entered the room. "Naghihintay na po ang doctor sa operating room." The
two nurses smiled at me. I kissed Marco's forehead at kumalas ng yakap sakanya.
"You'll going to be great." As I said as I bid my goodbye.
I hope the operation will ended up well. Naalala ko ang paguusap namin ni Alexander kanina
bago ko kausapin si Marco.
"Coronary artery bypass surgery." Tumingin ako kay Alexander—confused.
"What's that?" He moved his eyeglasses and look at my direction.
"The surgery that I will perform. I'll make a graft to bypass blocked coronary arteries. This allows
blood to flow around the narrowed coronary arteries." Kinakabahan ako sa magiging resulta.
"By the way, it's an open-heart surgery."
Please God Almighty, save my brother. Bless him.
I'm still waiting at the waiting area for almost 5 hours straight. Fidgeting my hands. I'm nervous.
"Can you please shut up! I'm not going in there." Naagaw ng atensiyon ko ang babaeng
sumisigaw. No, she's not shouting her voice is just too loud that I can actually hear it even
though she's meters away from me. Haneah. Sigaw ng isip ko.
Anong ginagawa niya dito?
"Psychiatric Ward"
Bigla siyang tumingin sa pwesto ko. I didn't know if she see me. Pero mukhang nakita niya
talaga ako dahil dumilim ang mukha niya. She turned her heels and started to walk.
Bakit siya naglalakad palapit sa akin. Her eyes were fixed on mine. Tumayo ako dahan dahan
sa pagkaupo.
"Bitch. I'm not here to say thank you to you. Hindi porke't dahil sayo magpapasalamat ako at
inurong ni Kalev ang kaso!" I give her a confused look. So Kalev did listen to me. So he's not
kidding when he told me he wants Haneah behind bars.
May dalawang lalaking pumipigil sa kanya. Maybe her bodyguards? Nakatayo lang ako sa
harapan niya. Hinahanda ang sarili ko sa maari niyang gawin.
"Mapapasakin si Kalev! Tandaan mo yan. Maybe for now sayo siya pero makikita mo balang
araw sa akin na siya." She said angrily. I shook my head.
"Hindi bagay si Kalev para angkinin. He's not a property to own. He is a person." I said
smoothly. 
"Ilagay mo to sa utak mo, gagawa ako ng paraan mapasakin lang siya. Hindi ako nagpapatalo
sa mababang uri ng tao kagaya mo." She threatened. Hindi ako naoffend sa sinabi niya. Bigla
akong naawa.
Isn't her obsession makes her like that? Psychiatric Ward. Is she here to...
"Don't look at me like that! I am not crazy for Pete's sake!" She said turning her heels away.
Nakasunod pa rin ang dalawa niyang bodyguard.
She will do everything to make Kalev as her lover.
Love can make people crazy. Okay, I admit, I like Kalev. I won't open my legs if I don't. I hope it
won't ruin her. Hindi naman ako ganun kasama para magisip ng kung ano ano sa kapwa. I
respect them. Alam kong bawat isa sa tao ay may kanya-kanyang storya.
Bumalik ako sa pagkaupo. Mentally praying.
"WE JUST need to wait until he's awake." For almost 8 hours of waiting lumabas na din si
Alexander sa operating room. Tinapon niya ang gloves na ginamit niya at lumapit sa akin.
Napatango na lang ako. "Don't worry, the operation was a success." Nakahinga ako ng
maluwag sa sinabi niya. Thanks God. Tatalikod na sana siya ng tawagin ko ang pangalan niya.
"Alexander!" Tumingin siya sa akin.
"Thank you for saving him." He smiled a little. "It's my job." His eyes were dulled, unamused.
Satisfied with the result, he left.
NATULOG ako sa kwarto na ginagamit ni Marco. Hindi pa rin siya gumigising. Still unconscious.
Tumayo ako sa sofa na hinigaan ko at kinuha ang bag kong dala. Getting out my stuff. Mabuti
na lang may comfort room dito. Tinext ko na din si Aling Nelda at siya na mismo ang nagsabi na
siya na muna ang magbabantay kay Marco habang ako naman ay nasa trabaho. I stretched my
arms as I went to the comfort room to bathe. And do my morning rituals.
Dumiretso ako sa Stanislaski Enterprise at pagkaapak ko sa 9th floor there's almost 12 girls
waiting at the bench.
Naalala kong ngayon pala maghahanap ng accompanist si Kalev. He will join the recital
competition. I still don't get what that means at bakit binibigyan ng importansiya. That's why he
asked Erin to post in the web that Kalev Stanislaski the CEO of Stanislaski Enterprise is looking
for an accompanist.
Pumasok ako sa loob ng opisina ni Kalev. He's already there. Natutulog pa ba ang isang to?
"You're late." Napatingin ako sa orasan at kumunot ang noo. "I'm not late. Sadyang maaga ka
lang talaga." I whispered the last part.
There's a grand piano at the side. Paano kaya nailagay ang piano dito within just a day? Ohh.
With Kalev Stanislaski nothing is impossible.
"How's Marco?" He ask, putting the fountain pen he's holding at his case.
"The operation was successful but he's still unconscious." I said at umupo sa station ko.
"We need to start working." I nodded my head. Umupo ako at akmang magsisimula ng
magtrabaho when he protested.
"Why the fuck are you sitting there? Sit here." He said at tinuro ang tabi niya. May nakalagay na
isang upuan doon.
"But why?" Tanong ko. May sarili naman akong station bakit kailangan ko pang pumwesto sa
gilid niya?
"You need to help me with the applicants." He said coolly. He pressed the intercom. "Start."
Hindi ko alam kung anong ibig sabihin niya sa start but one girl entered the room.
"Marsh what are you still doing there? Sit besides me, now." I stomp my feet bago siya sundin. I
didn't get it. Bakit kailangan ko pa siyang tulongan. Yes, he is my boss but...it seems that the
past is haunting me. I don't want to enter that path again.
"Hi my name is Zandra Diaz and I'm going to play Beethoven's piece." Kalev looked intimidating.
He cocked his brows telling the girl to start. Kahit sino kakabahan dahil sa presensiya ni Kalev.
She started to play, at first maayos naman ang pagkatugtog niya but at the middle part nagiba
ang tune ng tinutogtog niya. Gusto kong umiwas ng tingin sa piano but the piano is too big.
"Stop." And then she stopped playing.
"You failed. I'm looking for perfection. You're not the one I'm looking for."
I stayed at my place at hindi ako nagsasalita. Halos dalawang oras na akong nakaupo at
hanggang ngayon wala pa ring napipili si Kalev. He's too picky. Ang dami ng sumubok pero wala
man lang siyang mapili na maging accompanist. He's harsh and too straightforward. Ang dami
na rin niyang napaiyak na babae.
"My name is Daniella Lopez. Playing Mozart's piece." She stood with confidence. And her eyes
seems determined. Nagsimula siyang magplay ng piano and she's perfect. Mula sa una
hanggang sa matapos siyang tumugtog, the melody were perfect plus she looks elegant while
playing buong akala ko siya na ang mapipili. Buong akala ko tapos na ang paghihirap at
pagpipigil ko. Buong akala ko tapos na ang pag-torture ko sa sarili ko. Pero akala lang ang
lahat.
"It's a no." Kahit yung babaeng nagngangalang Daniella ay biglang nagulat sa sagot ni Kalev.
"But why? Natapos ko ang piece without making any mistake! Pero bakit hindi ako ang piliin
mo?" She answered back.
"Leave." He said with full of menace.
"But I'm—"
"I don't want to repeat myself again." What a cold-hearted bastard.
Umalis si Daniella na halatang pinanghinaan ng loob. Her confidence faded.
"Ano pa bang hinahanap mo Kalev? Ang dami ng sumubok yet wala ka pa ring mapili?" Hindi ko
maiwasang sabihin. Tumingin siya sa akin. His gaze were unusual. Parang may gusto siyang
sabihin but I couldn't figure it out.
"I want you to play the piano, Marsh. Be my accompanist."
***
Etoooo ulit ako HAHHHAHAHAHAHA. Sinisipag magtype. Sana magustuhan niyoooo. Salamat
sa pagbabasa. Labyuuuu [/send virtual kisses;

[ 30 CHAPTERXXVIII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXVIII: Heart vs. Mind

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
        I'm wearing a white dress at talagang pinagipunan ko pa ng matagal.
"Contestant number ten you need to stand by. In any minute, the two of you will perform." Rinig
kong sabi ng isang staff.
"Don't be nervous, Marsh. I know you will play very well." I smiled at Austin. He's the violinist
and I'm the pianist. "Kuha lang ako ng tubig para sayo."
Maabot ko na rin ang pangarap ko. The world to see me how to play. Kaya pinagbutihan ko ang
pagaaral ng piano. Thought, we can't afford to pay piano lesson. Pinagsabay ko rin ang
pag-aaral ko at pagabot ng pangarap ko.
But still my conscience is eating me. Nagkasagutan kami ni Mama last week. At hindi pa ako
nakahingi ng tawad sa kanya. I wanted them to see me how to play. I blamed her for something.
I stepped inside the line. I know I hurt her. Gusto ko sana pagkatapos kong tumogtog hihingi
ako ng tawad sakanya. I want to reach them with music.
"Please answer the phone." I whispered while dialing her number. After three rings she picked it
up.
"Marsh?"
"Ma!" I exclaimed. "Ma asan na kayo?"
"Anak nasa bahay kami. Masyadong malakas ang ulan sa labas. Sa tingin ko hindi na kami
makakapunta."
"Ma naman. Please pumunta naman kayo sa recital." Naiiyak na pahayag ko sa cellphone na
hawak ko. Fidgeting my hands to the dress I'm wearing. This is my first time playing. Ginawa ko
talaga ang best ko para mapasok sa recital na to.
"Pero anak—walang magbabantay kay Marco." I'm so frustrated. Gusto ko lang naman ipakita
kela Mama ang accomplishment ko. I want them to be proud of me. Marco has a weak heart
kahit simula ng pinanganak siya. At lahat ng atensiyon ay nasa kapatid kong bunso.
"Ma!" Napataas ang boses ko. Just like a teenager that I am, I got angry. "Please naman! Kahit
ngayon lang..."
"S...sige, hintayin mo kami dyan, anak. Hihiramin na lang ng Papa mo ang sasakyan ng Tito Jiro
mo." I smiled at it. Tito Jiro is Stacey's father. At kahit noon pa lang ay angat na sila sa buhay.
Kahit rinig kong nagtatalo ang kalooban niya kung pupunta ba o hindi. Sana nakarating kayo
Mama. Hihintayin ko kayo.
"Contestant number fourteen you need to stand by. Kayo na ang susunod." I stood up from the
chair I'm sitting. Kami na ni Austin ang susunod. Kailangan din naming galingan dahil dala
namin ang pangalan ng school na pinapasukan namin.
"I hope they're here." I whispered. Akmang isasilent ko na ang phone ko ng bigla itong tumunog.
Tawag mula kay Mama. I immediately answered it pero boses ng lalaki ang sumagot.
"Hello? Kayo po kasi ang huling tumawag sa cellphone na ito at may nakalagay na "Anak" sa
caller id kaya ito agad ang unang tinawagan ko." Bigla akong kinabahan. Ano ang nangyayari!?
"Ano—." Hindi pa ako nakakatapos magsalita ng sumagot ang taong nasa kabilang linya.
"Na-aksidente po kasi ang may-ari ng cellphone na ito. Nabangga ang kotse na ginagamit nila."
My hands trembled from shock.
"Marsh? Ayos ka lang ba? You're trembling." Sabi ni Austin as he patted my shoulders.
"No...no." Sabi ko sa kabilang linya. Hindi maaring mangyari yun. Parang kanina lang kausap ko
pa si Mama. Na pupunta siya dito. Pero bakit...
"Sinugod na po ang lahat ng nasugatan sa hospital. Sa Perez Medical Hospital."
"Pupunta na po ako dyan." I shakily said. Aalis na sana ako ng pigilan ako ni Austin.
"Marsh, where are you going? Tayo na ang sunod na magpeperform ano saan ka pa ba
pupunta?" Nakakunot na tanong niya. Naiiyak na ako sa nangyayari.
"Please Austin. I really need to go."
"Contestant number fourteen umakyat na kayo sa stage." Hinila ni Austin ang kamay ko paakyat
ng stage. My heart is pounding not because pf excitement but because I'm worried. Worried na
baka anong mangyari sa magulang ko.
"We need to perform Marsh. Clear your mind and heart. Mamaya mo na problemahin ang mga
problema mo. Kailangan muna nating unahin 'to. We're already here. There's no backing out."
He whispered. I can't even walk straight to the piano. Bumabagabag pa rin sa isip ko ang
nangyari sa magulang ko. Hindi ko alam kung ilang segundo na akong nakatayo at hindi man
lang magawang makalakad.
"Marsh! Marsh! What are you doing!?" Austin said half whispering and half shouting. Nakalagay
na ang violin sa balikat niya. I was back in reverie. Napakatahimik ng mga tao at nakatingin lang
sa aming dalawa ni Austin na nakatayo sa stage.
Dahan dahan akong lumapit sa harapan ng piano at umupo sa bench. Inilagay ko ang mga
kamay ko sa taas, tapping the keys lightly. Austin started to play and so am I. Pero sa bawat
pagtugtog ko pumapasok sa isip ko sila Mama. Na baka anong mangyari sa kanila. I can't afford
to lose them. I just can't. I need to go to the hospital as soon as possible.
I stopped playing. The crowd gasped in shocked. Nakita ko ang mga judge na umiiling. There's
a rule here when you stopped playing at the middle you'll be automatically disqualified in the
competition. But I don't care about that. Kailangan kong puntahan ang magulang ko!
"I'm sorry." Sabi ko kay Austin. Disappointed is written all over his face. "I'm sorry." I said to the
crowd and bowed. Naiiyak akong bumaba ng stage at tumakbo. Hinanap ang exit. It's raining
hard but I didn't care.
Tumakbo lang ako kahit nababasa ako ng ulan. May taxi na tumigil sa harapan ko at agad
akong sumakay sa back seat.
"Sa Perez Medical Hospital po, manong. Please po pakibilisan ang takbo." Umiiyak na sabi ko. I
can't help my tears to fall at habang nasa taxi ako ay simula na akong umiiyak. I won't forgive
myself if something bad happened to them.
HALOS ISANG oras ang tagal ng byahe. Agad akong nagbayad at lumabas ng taxi.
Pinagtitinginan na din ako ng tao pero wala akong pakialam. Siguro dahil basa ang suot kong
damit at ang gulo ng buhok. Plus I'm dripping wet.
"Martha Lahm and Gregory Lahm. Nasaan sila?" Tanong ko sa isang nurse. I'm still crying my
heart out at habang kausap ang nurse.
"Yung naaksidente po ba sa crossing papuntang 12th avenue?" I nodded my head.
"Nasa emergency room po ang apat na biktima ng aksidente kasama na po doon si Martha
Lahm at Gregory Lahm." Agad akong napakatakbo sa emergency room.
Sakto naman na lumabas ang Doctor.
"Doc, kamusta po ang kalagay ni Martha at Gregory Lahm. Ang magulang ko." Umiling ang
Doctor.
"They're dead. Pasensya ka na iha. Ginawa na namin ang lahat pero masyadong malakas ang
pagkabangga ng kotse sa isang truck. Sabi ng truck driver masyadong malakas ang ulan kaya
hindi niya masyadong makita ang daan..." maraming sinabi ang doktor pero wala akong
mapakinggan kundi ang unang dalawang salita na sinabi niya.
"Actually there's four person who is involved in the accident. Isang truck, honda civic na
kotse—ito ang kotse na ginagamit ng mga magulang mo at isang Porsche na kulay itim. Patuloy
pa rin nagiimbistiga ang mga pulis."
Wala na sila Mama at Papa. Naupo ako sa sahig na umiiyak. Iyak lang ako ng iyak habang
sumisigaw.
"Kung hindi lang natuloy ang recital edi sana buhay pa rin ang kapatid ko." Rinig kong sabi ni
Tita Maril sa likuran ko. Nanghihina akong napaupo sa sahig.
May napansin akong isang babaeng nilalagyan ng benda ang ulo niya at may isa pang lalaki na
nakahiga sa stretcher. Duguan at walang malay. But I didn't give them too much attention. Mas
nakatuon pa rin ang atensiyon ko sa mga katagang narinig ko sa mga doctor. It's partly my fault.
Kung hindi sana natuloy ang recital, edi sana hindi mangyayari to. Tita Maril is right.
At simulan nun sinabi ko sa sarili ko hinding-hindi na ako tutugtog ng piano. I give up my dream.
My dream to be a great pianist. To play for the world. And for the world to hear me play. A life
without music is death.
...and after seven years somebody just asked me to play the piano again. I stopped and then
looked at the floor.
"I...I don't play." I stuttered. Tiningnan ako ni Kalev. "Don't lie. I can read your eyes like an open
book. The way you looked at the piano, you cast a look of longing. That explains why you look
sad and lonely." He holds my hand.
Nanatili akong nakayuko. "I can't." He holds my chin using one of his hand at pinagpantay ang
tingin naming dalawa.
"You can't or you won't? There's a big difference between the two. It's not you can't play you just
won't. All I hear is an excuse for you to run away. Don't afraid to try again it's not a crime." I
wanted to but I just couldn't.
"I made a promise." I said. Reminiscing the old days. "Promises are meant to be broken. Can't
you see, Marsh? You're running in circle. The opportunity is already knocking on your door. You
just need to welcome it. Do you think this is the perfect time to follow what you really wanted in
life?" I lift my head. "I already stopped playing seven years ago. I think—" he cut me off.
"You wouldn't know unless you try. Whether you're sad, hurt, or empty. You need to keep
playing." Napatahimik ako sa sinabi ni Kalev.
"Pagiisipan ko." I surrendered.
He flashed a mischievous grin. "That's my girl." At may kinausap siya sa intercom.
"I already found my accompanist. I won't entertain more applications. Send them home."
Sinamaan ko ng tingin si Kalev.
"Kalev sabi ko pagiisipan ko." Tumayo ako sa pagkaupo. He shrugged and flashed an innocent
look.
"What? Doon rin naman ang punta nun eh. Advance ako magisip." I face palmed.
***
Mz's Note: So ayun nga stress na stress na ako sa buhay ko. Kaya dinaan ko na lang sa
pagsusulat.

[ 31 CHAPTERXXIX ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXIX: I want to do it

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View Ibinaba ko ang hawak kong bulaklak and light the candle.
Tumayo ako sa harap ng puntod ng mga magulang ko. It's been month since I've been here.
"Mama...Papa..." there's a lump in my lungs. I couldn't speak. I just can't. Maybe Kalev is right.
I'm only running in circles because I'm afraid to face the reality. Tears flows from my eyes. I'm
crying again. I'm such a cry baby pagdating sa mga magulang ko.
"Ma...nahihirapan ako nung wala kayo." I whispered to the air and hoping that it reach them. "I
really wanted to say sorry to you."
"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. Hindi ko man lang nasabi sa inyo na mahal na mahal ko kayo." I cried
when looking at their graves. Umupo ako at lumuhod at humawak sa lapida niya habang
umiiyak. My heart just broke into pieces. I was filled with guilt. "Mom...I shouldn't have done that.
I'm sorry." I keep chanting. Hindi man lang ako nakahingi ng tawad sa mga magulang ko bago
sila kunin sa akin.
"Ma kailangan ko pong magenroll sa piano class." Sabi ko sa nanay ko habang nasa hapag
kainan kami.
"Anak alam mo namang hirap tayo ngayon. At wala kaming ipapangbayad ng papa mo sa piano
class mo. Sa gamot pa lang ni Marco hindi na kakayanin." Nalukot ang noo ko at napayuko.
Ang hirap maging mahirap lang. I envy my classmates who were rich dahil nagagawa at nabibili
nila ang gusto nila. With my little mind, ganito ako magisip.
"Ma, si Marco na naman? Paano naman ako? It's my dream to play. Gusto ko lang naman
maenhance ang kakayanan ko." Malungkot kong saad.
"Anak, pasensiya ka na intindihin mo na muna ang sitwasyon natin ngayon." She looked tired
and wary. Pagod sa maghapon na trabaho.
"Iba na lang ang piliin mong pangarap, anak? Masyadong mataas ang gusto mo at hindi ko
makakayang ipasok ka sa piano class na tinutukoy mo."
"Gusto ko talagang ipagpatuloy to Ma. Nasimulan ko na. Bakit kasi ipinanganak pa si Marco na
may sakit sa puso! Bakit tayo pang mahirap?" She slapped my face. Biglang tumulo ang luha
ko. This is the first time na pinagbuhatan niya ako ng kamay.
"Wag na wag kang magsasalita ng ganyan. Hindi kita pinalaki para ganyan ka magisip Marsh!
Hindi ginusto ni Marco na magkaroon ng sakit sa puso. Bakit mo sinisisi ang isang tatlong taong
gulang na kapatid mo na wala pang kaalam alam sa mundo! May plano ang Diyos para sa atin."
Umalis ako sa kusina at dumiretso sa kwarto ko at doon umiyak ng umiyak. I feel so guilty.
Nagsisisi ako sa mga nasabi ko.
I dried my tears using my hands. Pero patuloy pa rin ang pagtulo nito.
I'm always asking God why did He get them so early. Why their death is so painful. But no one
answered. But God has plans for us. Yan ang sinabi ni Mama.
Apat na buwan ang lumipas pagkatapos silang ilibing. I'm still mourning and crying every night.
At nandito ako sa kwarto nila para maglinis. Inayos ko ang bed sheets at nagwalis na din ako.
Habang winawalisan ang ilalim ng kama ay bigla akong nakita. Isang kahon ay may butas sa
gitna. I curiously get and open it.
"Piano lesson para sa anak ko." Yun ang nakasulat sa loob ng kahon at may laman itong pera.
At simula sa araw na yun doon ko lang napagtanto na pinagiipunan ni Mama ang pambayad ko
sa piano lesson. At kahit kapos kami sa pera nakayanan pa rin ni Mama na pagipunan ito. Hindi
ko alam kung ilang oras akong nakaupo sa sahig habang yakap ang kahon. Ang magulang
natin ay nagsasakripisyo para sa kanilang anak. We just couldn't see it.
Mahirap man kami pero swerte ko pa din dahil nagkaroon ako ng mapagmahal na pamilya na
mayaman sa pagmamahal. Bakit ngayon ko lang napagtanto ito kung kailan wala na sila. Ang
sama kong anak.
"Ma..." bakit kasi nawala kayo agad. Hindi man lang ako nakahingi ng tawad sayo.
"Mahal na mahal kayo." Medyo lumakas hangin at nadala ang buhok ko. I wiped my tears away.
I hope it reach them. I mentally prayed.
"Marsh." Napatingin ako sa tumawag ng pangalan ko. It's Tita Maril.
"Dumalaw ka rin pala ngayong araw." Ngumiti lang ako ng tipid kay Tita Maril as I watched her
to put a candle on their graves. Tumabi siya sa akin at tumayo.
"Maybe you loathed me." Mahinang sabi niya habang malayo ang tingin. "Because I keep on
blaming you." Napatingin ako sa baba.
"That's why you stopped playing. I know you're a great pianist. Every time na nagkikita kami ng
kapatid ko she always boast saying Yung anak kong si Marsh, napakagaling magpiano. Hindi ko
nga alam kung kanino nagmana ang batang yun. Nawala ang lahat sayo, your parents, your
passion, your dreams, education." Napatingin ako sa gawi niya. Bakit niya sinasabi ang lahat ng
to? This is new to me. Naiiyak na lang ako sa mga alaala ng magulang ko.
"It's my decision Tita. I stopped playing because I'm blaming myself too. You're right." Mahinang
pahayag ko.
"I'm sorry. As your Auntie, I failed you. Walang may gusto ng nangyari. Everything happen for a
reason, they say. You don't need to blame yourself but start believing in yourself." I stared at
their graves.
"Don't isolate yourself iha. If you want to do something, do it. If you want to make something,
make it. If you want to reach your set goals in life, reach it." Makahulugang sabi ni Tita with a
faint smile on her face. Tumingin siya sa akin at niyakap ako. I felt so warm. Like my mother is
hugging me too. I cried with her shoulder. She taps my head and caress it like a child.
"Do whatever makes you happy. I'm here to support you in behalf of my sister." And that's what
all I need to hear. Tinuyo ko ang luha ko. "Thank you, Tita." Tumingin ulit ako sa puntod ng
magulang ko.
"I love you, Mama. I love you, Papa." At bumaling naman ako kay Tita Maril. "Tita, I need to go.
May kailangan lang po akong gawin." She smiled at me. I turned my back at simulang tumakbo
palayo sa sementeryo. Agad akong sumakay sa taxi at sinabi ang address kung saan ang
penthouse ni Kalev.
Ng makarating ako sa pupuntahan ko agad akong nagbayad at bumaba. I shivered from
excitement. Para bang may panibagong pagasa na bumukas sa akin. Pumasok ako agad sa
elevator. Naghihintay hanggang sa makarating sa penthouse ni Kalev. It feels like eternity.
Tumakbo ako palabas ng elevator at agad pumasok sa loob ng penthouse. Naabutan ko si
Kalev sa loob ng penthouse niya na umiinom ng tubig sa kusina.
Life is a series of moments. Parang nagulat pa si Kalev ng nakita ako. Sino bang hindi. Ang
pula ng mata ko at halatang katatapos lang umiyak. Every moment I spend with him. I found my
own freedom.
He stood there lovingly. My heart begun to pound so fast. Dahan dahan akong lumakad sa
puwesto niya. This feeling I have, this is what people called...yearning. I yearned for Kalev. I
yearned for music.
"I want to do it! I really want to do it! I'm going to be your accompanist!"
He kissed my forehead. "Great choice, Marsh. I'm expecting that answer." With so much
happiness creeping inside me. I kissed his lips at agad naman niyang tinugon ang halik ko.
I'm thankful I met him. He's my savior. My life saver. Because of him, I found my own self. It's
like both of us we're connected with each other.
And now, I knew for myself I won't survive without Kalev in my life. He gave me one of the
reason to move on and look forward for the future. Because now I'm falling hard and fast. I can't
stop myself I just...did.
***
Matatapos ko na talaga to kung araw-araw akong mag uupdate HAHAHAHHAAHHAH.
[ 32 CHAPTERXXX ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXX: Meet Austin

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View
     "Wow. Just wow." Hindi makapaniwalang bulalas ni Tori habang nakatingin pa din sa akin.
Her stares makes me uncomfortable. Kanina pa kasi siya nakatingin sa akin habang umiikot.
What I mean is nakatayo ako at siya naman ay iniikutan ako.
"Ano ba Victoria Abbel! Ako ang nahihilo sa pinagagawa mo." Sabi naman ni Elizabeth habang
nakaupo sa sofa at kumakain ng dried mangoes. At nanonood sa flat screen sa Netflix ng
romance. I don't know the title, though. Nandito sila penthouse ni Kalev. It's Sunday kaya wala
akong trabaho ngayon.
Nagising na rin si Marco but Alexander told me he needs to check Marco's vitals bago siya
idischarged. Kakagaling ko lang sa hospital at kauuwi ko lang sa penthouse ni Kalev. He's in his
office dito sa penthouse. Napailing na lang ako pati ba naman dito sa penthouse niya ay
nagtatrabaho siya.
Nang makarating ako sa penthouse naabutan ko sila Tori at Elizabeth sa loob. Wala daw silang
magawa kaya pumunta sila dito.
"I just can't believe it! Marunong magplay ng piano si Marsh. And they're into classical music!
Tapos siya ang accompanist ni Kalev sa recital competition. They are really meant for each
other! They will be a lovely couple!" That's explains why she's overreacting.
"Trust me hindi ko din alam what's gotten in my head why I agreed." Hindi sila nagulat na
nakatira ako sa penthouse ni Kalev but nagulat sila na ako ang magiging accompanist niya.
"It's not a big deal, Tori." I said at naupo ako katabi ni Elizabeth at nanuod kahit hindi ko
maintindihan ang takbo ng storya. Hindi ko kasi nasimulan.
"It is! Napaka big deal nito! This recital competition is always held every year. At ang
management nito ang kusang pumipili kung sino ang dapat sasali." She said hysterically.
"Plus only people who has a power in the society ang iniimbitahan sumali dito. Elites and shits.
They wanted to show their talents and also to feed their ego and pride." Pagsangayon ni
Elizabeth at kinuha ang invitation na nakalagay sa taas ng table at simulang magbasa.
"Laging nakakatanggap ng invitation si Kalev but he always declined. Lagi niyang sinasabi na
wala siyang accompanist. Buti na lang at nahanap ka niya Marsh." I become curious about this
recital competition. Kung mayayaman ang mga kasali dito ang ibig sabihin lang natin nito ay
masyadong malaki ang production.
I stopped playing seven years ago hindi ko alam kung kaya ko pa bang tumugtog ng piano. I
don't want Kalev to be disappointed. Hindi ko pa siya nakikitang tumugtog gamit ang violin but I
can feel it—na magaling talaga siya. Just like how he plays the piano.
"It's Sunday right? Fourth of the month?" Tanong ni Elizabeth—making sure.
"Yeah. What's the matter?" Tori asked looking at her cousin.
"There's a grand ball written here. 9P.M. Sunday, 4th of the month. Please come in a formal
attire." Huh? Hindi ko nakita yan ng binasa ko.
Realization hits me, hindi ko pala natapos basahin ang invitation, I passed out that time. Kaya
napatingin na rin ako sa hawak ni Elizabeth na invitation. May nakasulat nga doon in a
calligraphy font.
"Hindi ko alam kung alam to ni Kalev." I whispered na ako lang ang makakarinig.
"I think he knew about it." Tori said. I assumed she heard what I've said. "Nang dumating kasi
kami ni Elizabeth dito he's reading the invitation while having a coffee. In fact, he's the one who
left the invitation on the table." Tori and Elizabeth shared glances. Like talking—not with mouth
but with eye contact. At tsaka parehong tumingin sa akin, mischievously.
"It's a no...kung ano man yang iniisip niyong dalawa hindi ako sasama at papayag." Sabi ko
agad but they didn't listen to me.
"It's going to be fun. Gustong gusto pa naman kitang damitan Marsh. You're just so beautiful at
sa tingin ko lahat ng damit ay babagay sayo." Sabi ko na nga ba may hindi magandang dulot
'tong magpinsan na to.
"Kami bahala sa susuotin mo sa grand ball Marsh. We are going to dress you up."
"Masyado na kayong maraming nagawa para sa akin. I'll decline this time." Sabi ko naman at
akmang tatakas na ng hawakan nila ang magkabilang kamay ko.
"Kalev! We're going to abduct Marsh first!" Sigaw ni Tori na parang nagpapaalam. It's useless
masyadong malaki ang penthouse ni Kalev para marinig ang pagsigaw ni Tori. At isa pa, nasa
second floor ang office ni Kalev.
"Oh ayan nagpaalam na ako kay Kalev. Siguro naman hindi ka niya hahanapin diba? Let's go
people!" Tori said excitedly.
This will be going a tough day for me.
"WHITE OR BLUE?" Ilang oras na kami sa mall at ilang oras na din kami labas-pasok sa
iba't-ibang boutique. Parang wala silang kapaguran. Heto ako halos mapuputulan na ng paa sa
sobrang pagod.
"Mas bagay kay Marsh 'tong blue. It compliments her skin." Kinuha ko ang hawak na hanger ni
Tori  at na may nakasabit na blue na dress. Sleeveless at mataas ng isang pulgada sa may
tuhod.
"Masyado namang maikli to." I said habang idinidikit sakin ang damit.
Umupo ako sa couch dahil napapagod na talaga ang paa ko kakalakad. Pero si Elizabeth at lalo
na si Tori na mukhang hindi man lang napapagod.
"I think this is perfect for Marsh."
And Elizabeth showed me a black dress. Not too short and not too long. The moment I laid my
eyes on the dress it shouts perfection. Isn't it possible to fall in love by just looking at the dress
she's holding?
"Marsssshhh~" Tori said in a singsong voice. "Sukatin mo na. I'm so freakin' excited~." She
pulled my arms and pushed me inside the fitting room. I don't have any choice but to fit the
dress.
I looked at the price at halos mamilog ang mata ko ng makita ang price tag. Six thousand nine
hundred and ninety nine pesos?!
Lumabas ako ng fitting room. "I don't want to wear this guys. This is so expensive! Budget ko na
to ng isang buwan."
"Don't worry Marsh. Don't mind the price. No biggie. Go on. Hurry up! Kailangan mo pang mag
beauty rest." I sighed and give up. Wala na talaga akong takas sa dalawang to.
"Alright." Arguing is futile. Pumasok na ako sa loob at sinukat ang damit.
IT'S ALREADY 3 P.M. ng makabalik kami sa penthouse.
Dumiretso ako sa second floor at napagiwan naman sila Tori sa living room. Papasok na sana
ako sa kwarto na ginagamit ko ng may humila sa braso ko.
"I missed you." Kalev said as he buried his face on the crook of my neck.
"Kalev?" He looks tired and exhausted. Hinayaan ko lang siyang yakapin ako habang ang
mukha niya nasa leeg ko. I touched his messy hair and combed it using my hands. His hair is so
soft to my touch.
"Sino bang nagsabing magtrabaho ka tuwing Sunday." I tsked habang patuloy sinusuklay ang
buhok niya. I can feel him chuckling. Dahil gumalaw ang balikat niya.
"You never failed to amused me, Marsh." Tinanggal niya ang ulo sa leeg ko at tumingin sa akin,
still hugging me.
"Victoria ruined my plan, tsk." He shook his head. Kumunot ang noo ko sa sinabi niya. "Never
mind. Just get ready before nine." And left me dumbfounded. I doesn't want to feel like a woman
around Kalev again. It was too perilous, and I avoided perilous situation.
I WOKE up from my deep slumber. Siguro dahil na rin sa pagod kaya nakatulog ako agad. It's
already 7:30 PM ng tumingin ako sa wall clock. Agad kong kinuha ang towel ko at pumunta sa
comfort room to take a bathe. Hindi naman ako matagal maligo.
I used the shower not the jacuzzi. It takes too much. Napakalaki naman kasi ng comfort room
dito. Napailing na lang ako. Puwede mo na nga siguro tong maging kwarto. I covered my wet
body with a white towel at lumabas.
Tinanggal ko ang dress na susuotin ko sa pagkalagay sa paper bag. This dress is really
beautiful. Sigaw ng isip ko.
I wear it and the heels na kakulay din ng dress. Ibinaba ko na lang ang buhok ko at naglagay ng
light make up. Just to look more presentable. Hindi naman puwede na pumunta ako sa grand
ball na mukha lang katulong. Lalo na at kasama ko si Kalev. For sure, nasa kanya ang
atensiyon ng maraming tao. Sino ba ang hindi? Napakagwapo talaga ng isang yun.
I looked at the mirror and I saw my reflection. I'm no longer the girl who's haunted by the past. I
looked more...free.
I heard a faint knock on the door kaya napatingin ako doon. Bukas ang pinto ko and there stood
a Greek God wearing three piece suit. He looks really handsome. We stared at each other
hanggang sa lumapit siya sa akin. Here we go again my heart is beating so darn fast thump
thump thump.
"Turn around." Using his casual voice, tumalikod ako sa kanya. Parehas na kaming nasa
harapan ng salamin at siya naman ay nasa likod ko. I can clearly see what he's doing. May
kinuha siyang isang maliit na velvet box mula sa kanyang bulsa at binuksan yun.
I felt a cold thing touches my neck. It's a necklace!
"So beautiful..." he whispered. Like talking to himself.
"Wear this all the time, sweetheart." He said as he kiss my neck. Hindi ako makapagsalita. It's a
clef necklace. With a heart diamond shape. A treble clef made of small crystal.
"W-why are you giving me this." I ask and touched the necklace. Hindi naman sa ayaw ko pero
this is too much. I can't accept it.
"Dahil gusto ko at kaya ko. Let's go." Hindi pa ako nakakamove on sa binigay niya ng hilahin na
niya ako.
"We're going to ride on this one?" Hindi makapaniwalang sambit ko ng makarating kami sa
baba.
It's a freaking limousine!
"Hop in Marsh. We don't have any time." I rolled my eyes. Nagsusungit na naman siya.
Sumakay ako sa tabi niya. The interior is so nice and glamorous. There's a mini bar at mayroon
ding flat screen television. Fancy and luxurious limo.
Hinawakan niya ang kamay ko and he keeps on playing with it.
"You're so damn beautiful wearing that dress. I can't wait to strip and tear it apart." It send
shivers down to my spine. We're inches away at mas lalong dumagdag pa ang tension dahil
magkahawak kami ng kamay.
He's always claiming me as his. Am I just his fuck buddy? What I mean is...is he keeping me
just for sex? Hindi ko maiwasan malungkot sa tuwing naiisip ko ang bagay na yun.
"Kalev..." Dapat tatawagin ko lang ang pangalan niya but it turns out to be a moan.
Nagkatinginan kaming dalawa. I looked at his piercing blue eyes. Bumaba ang mukha
niya—claiming my lips. I obliged and welcome his kisses. Our mouth meet greedily, like we're in
a racing.
He deepened the kiss. Grow wilder and moister. Hands placed on my cheeks samantalang ang
mga kamay ko ay nasa may dibdib niya. My mind went blank.
Our lips melted lighly, passionately. Two pairs of lips melting, nothing more.
The texture of the kiss changed, so slowly that it wasn't possible to stop.  Aggressive and
strong.
Huminto ang kotse but our lips were still sealed. "I think we're already here." I said between our
kisses. "Fuck." He cursed under his breath. Nilayo niya ang mukha niya sa akin. "Nabitin na
naman ako." Hindi ko alam kung matatawa ba ako sa reaction niya. Halatang halata ang
pagkabitin sa kanyang mukha.
I catch my breath ng maghiwalay ang labi namin. Inayos ko ang sarili ko at kumuha ng tissue na
nakita kong nakalagay sa loob ng limo. I looked at myself in the small mirror. May smudges ng
lipstick ang labi ko. Agad kong tinanggal ang lipstick na nakakalat gamit ang tissue. Inayos ko
na rin ang nagulo kong buhok.
"Sa tingin ko kailangan  na nating lumabas." Nahihiyang sabi ko matapos kong maayos ang
sarili ko. "Fine." He grumbled at mukhang napipilitan pa. Napailing na lang ako. Para kasi
siyang batang inagawan ng candy.
Una siyang lumabas and after a minute sumunod naman ako. Right before I stepped outside
there's a flashing of cameras everywhere. There's a freaking red carpet! At sa tingin ko doon
kami maglalakad hanggang makarating sa loob.
This is really a big event!
"Mister Stanislaski! Can you look at this side?"
"Can you give us your smile?"
"Mister Stanislaski! Who is the girl besides you?"
"Is she your current girlfriend?"
"Anong dahilan mo Mister Stanislaski at bakit kayo sumali sa Recital Competition?"
He holds my hand at pinahawak sa braso niya. He didn't smile, he didn't speak a word, at
diretso lang nag lakad sa red carpet. At ako naman ay parang robot na sumunod lang sa kanya.
This is my first time and I don't know how to react!
Hanggang sa makapasok kami sa loob ng venue! There's a freaking chandelier hanging right in
the middle. Everyone's wearing expensive suit and dresses. There's a buffet luncheon on each
sides that consists of finger foods and drinks. There's also a classical music blasting on the
speaker.
Maraming tao ang bumabati kay Kalev but his face remains stoic. He never smiles but he
acknowledged their presence. Halos lahat ng babae na nadadanan namin ay napapatingin sa
kanya. And some guys were looking at me or is it just my imagination.
"Marsh? Holy Guacamole! It's you! I thought my eyes were just playing tricks on me."
Napatingin ako sa boses ng lalaking tumawag sa pangalan ko.
"Austin?" I muttered in surprise. He looked more matured. Mas lalong naging fierce ang mukha
niya. Nagkaroon na din ng muscle ang katawan niya na dati ay payat. Humigpit ang
pagkahawak ni Kalev sa akin. Ang sama ng tingin niya kay Austin. Like shooting daggers and
all.
"Wow! I can't believe I'll see you here! This is unexpected!" He cheerfully said. Eyeing me from
top to bottom.
Me too. I never thought our path will cross like this. After seven long years hindi ko akalain na
makikita ulit kita. Austin Hendricks...my ex-boyfriend.
Napatingin naman ako sa pwesto ni Kalev. He looks like he can commit murder. He's ready to
kill Austin anytime.
"Can I talk to you for a while? Catching up, you know, for the sake of old times. Bigla ka na lang
kasing nawala pagkatapos ng lahat ng nangyari." Hindi ako makasagot. His eyes were full of
hopes.
"It's a no." Kalev answered using his cold voice again na parang hinugot pa mula sa north pole.
"Excuse me?" Tumingin si Austin kay Kalev. Kalev did the same. "You will not take Marsh away
from me. If I were you go home and fuck your fist." He said rudely. Napakunot ang noo ko sa
action ni Kalev ngayon. I know he's rude but not at this point. He's being childish and immature.
"Kalev!" Pagalit kong sabi at tsaka bumaling ang atensiyon kay Austin. I smiled a little. "Maybe
next time." Kalev gripped my hands and pull me away from the crowd. Leaving Austin behind.
"Kalev! Masakit!" Hindi ko napigilang sabihin. Pero mukhang wala siyang naririnig at patuloy pa
rin ang paghila niya sa akin. Hanggang sa makalabas na kami sa mismong venue. Hinila niya
ako sa garden part na mayroong fountain sa gitna. Hindi ko akalain na may ganito pala dito. I
was mesmerized by its beauty but still Kalev is seizing my hand so tight.
"Let go off my hands Kalev!" Pigil ko sa kanya. My voice is firm! Dahil nasasaktan na ako sa
hawak niya.
"What was that!?" His voice boomed in the place buti na lang walang tao dito kundi makakakuha
kami ng atensiyon ng marami.
"What do you mean?" Naguguluhang sabi ko at hinilot ang kamay ko na kanina pa niya hawak.
"Reminiscing the memories of your past lover?! Then what?! You're going to get back together
again?! I'm not gonna let you!" Sigaw niya sa akin. Kahit madilim nakikita ko pa rin ang talim ng
mga mata niya. How did he know that Austin is my past lover?
"Why are you so mad?! Bakit ba lagi ang init ng ulo mo sa tuwing may kakausap sa aking lalaki!
Wala naman kaming ginagawang masama." Sigaw ko din pabalik sakanya. "You're so annoying
and always confusing me! Lagi mo na lang akong sinasabi na pagmamayari mo ako! Touching
me, kissing me, taking me. Laruan mo lang ba ako Kalev because first and foremost I'm not a
toy for you to play with!" Para na lang akong bombang sumabog sa harapan niya. Hindi ko na
mapigilan ang sarili ko. I break down in front of him. May luha na ring pumapatak sa mga mata
ko. Hindi ko yata matatanggap kung umamin si Kalev na pinaglalaruan lang niya ako. He might
break me into pieces and I can afford to be like that again.
"Sagutin mo ako Kalev! Sawang sawa na ako sa tuwing hindi ka sumasagot at lagi ka na lang
umiiwas! You're spoiling me, calling me baby, calling me different endearments! It just don't feel
right. Empleyado lang ba ang tingin mo sa akin? O isang charity case na kailangan tulongan
dahil wala ka ng mapaglagyan ng pera mo sa bangko? Ano pa ba—"
"I'm so fucking in love with you, damn it!"
Wait, what?
***
Pinakamahabang chapter so far. Congratulations dahil nakaabot kayo dito~ayieeehhhh. Support
support support. Xoxo~

[ 33 CHAPTERXXXI ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXXI: Hear me

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
"I'm so fucking in love with you, damn it."
Wait, what?
I stayed glued in my place. Hindi ako makapaniwala sa sinabi niya.
"I don't know how or why. I just did. All I can do is to think of you. You lingered in my mind for as
long as I can't remember. The only one who crosses in my mind constantly throughout the day
specially at night. Para bang nakatira ka na dito." He pointed his head. "And here." And then he
pointed his chest where his heart lies. "This thing keeps on beating and shouting your name. My
fucking worthless life is dull until you came. Pumasok ka sa buhay ko ng walang pahintulot at
ngayon gusto kong panagutan mo ako. It just feel like I'm losing control of myself specially if
somebody is looking at you the way I do. Dahil gusto ko akin ka lang. Even your smile is mine. I
want to be the guy who can make you smile and laugh. I want to make you smile in any way
possible. Because baby you make me smile while looking at your smiling face."
"I'm jealous if somebody talks to you. When you entertain them. I'm so done pretending. Ayoko
ng palihim lang kitang minamahal. I want to hold you, feel your warmth, to love you endlessly.
Fuck! I really wanted to kiss you so bad. Kaya kung nakakita ako ng pagkakataon hinahalikan
kita. Hindi ko na kasi mapigilan ang sarili ko. Pagdating sayo nagiging blangko ang utak ko.
See? You have this effect on me. Loving you is the best thing that I ever did."
"I love the way you pout when confused or when you bite that damn luscious soft lips and
fidgeting your fingers when you're nervous. I know when you bite your tongue preventing
yourself to smile. Frowning when tired and hungry. You sleep like a fetus in woman's womb
though the bed is too big for you. I find it cute. You always tie your hair up and you're so free
and goddamn pretty even without make up. You're simple yet beautiful. In young age you
already know how to survive in the society and I admired you for that. I love your face not
because you're pretty—the main reason is it's full of life. You had this sincere expression on
your face. Worried or not. Happy or sad or angry."
"I tried to resist it. I know for myself na hindi ako ang tamang lalaki para sayo but fuck the more I
resist the more I want to own you! The more I avoid you the more I want to be with you. You
mean so much to me. Ikaw ang pinakamagandang nangyari sa buhay ko. Mas lalo kitang
minamahal sa mga araw na dumadaan. I fell hard and deep, babe. So damn hard and fucking
deep. I love you so damn much."
I listened to his sudden outburst. I stood in front of him, starstruck. He left me speechless. Hindi
ko namalayan na lumuluha na pala ako. I can't believe it! I never imagined this scenario. Buong
akala ko ako lang ang nagmamahal at nasasaktan. He's in love with me too! Masyado akong
nao-overwhelmed sa naririnig ko. Para bang nakalimutan ko na magsalita. Dapat pala nirecord
ko ang boses niya dahil ang sarap pakinggan paulit-ulit.
"Are you just going to stand there? Say something please. I'm so nervous and why the fuck are
you crying?" I flashed a little smile. The mighty Kalev Stanislaski knows how to feel nervous.
He's a human after all.
"I'm not be a good guy but please save my fucking soul." Siguro kung may makakita lang sa
akin sa kalagayan ko ngayon mapapagkamalan akong baliw dahil umiiyak ako habang
pinipigilang ngumiti. He looks so helpless and this is actually the first time I saw him vulnerable.
"Stop crying, love. You know how much I hate it when I see you crying." Hindi ba niya alam ang
salitang tears of joy. His eyes were pleading.
He don't need to plead because the feeling is mutual. Walang mapaglagyan ang kasiyahan ko
ngayon.
"Even if you don't love me the way I do. I'll accept your decision." Bagsak ang balikat niya. He
isn't the Kalev Stanislaski I used to know. Because he's always proud and full of confidence.
"You are so bossy and manipulative. Always grinning from ear to ear sometimes I want to wipe it
off your face and put a smile on it. You make me feel weak and you are always there if I need
you. Natulog lang ako pero paggising ko ikaw na ang hinahanap ko. Do you know how much I'm
hoping for you to notice me. Sana mapansin mo ako hindi bilang isang empleyado kundi bilang
isang babae." Sunod sunod na bigkas ko. Nakakunot na ang noo niya.
"What are you trying to say. Say it clearly before I think other meaning. Say what you're thinking
because I can't fucking read it!" I chuckled and wipe a tears off my face. Masyado na siyang
nafufrustrate.
"Dummy." A short pause. "I'm in love with you, too!" Napasigaw kong sabi. He's still frowning.
"Why are you shouting? Are you mad!?"
"I am not! Ikaw ang sumisigaw sa ating dalawa!"
"Shut up, come here, and fucking kiss me right now." Hindi ko mapigilan na mapangiti.
Patakbo akong pumunta sa pwesto niya. He cupped my cheeks and kissed me senselessly.
Slipping into the moistness. We kissed like we're the only person in the venue. Like we're in a
race. So passionate and tender. The sensation is far too different. We pressed our body to each
other. At dahil matangkad siya I tiptoed and encircled my arms to his neck. That makes me
comfortable. He bent down to reach me. He traced his tongue to the seam of my lips. He's
definitely a good kisser. He snaked an arm to my waist and one hand on my ass. I smiled
between our kisses. One thing that I know is every time we kiss he can't keep his hands off to
himself. Always wandering and caressing sensitive spot on my body. He bite my lips
aggressively not giving me pain but pleasure. I almost moaned his name...again.
"Stop me." He huskily said. He suck my lower lips and kissed the side. As our tongue fight in
dominance. "Stop me, Marsh. Before I take you here."
"In public?"
"In public."
A smack kiss is not enough for Kalev. He wants it wild and hot. He won't settle for less. He
always wanted more than you could offer. Our kissed stopped and I catch my breathe. "Then
stop." Though my mind were still blank and I couldn't even think straight. Agad naman niyang
tinigil ang paghalik sa akin..
I hugged him tightly. We stayed like that for a minute or two. Humiwalay siya ng yakap but my
arms were still placed on his waistline and he cupped both of my cheeks. He looked at me with
full of emotions in his eyes happiness and love.
"Feel my heartbeat, sweetheart. It beats for you." True to his word. Ramdam na ramdam ko ang
pagtibok ng puso niya.
Sumandal ako sa dibdib niya. "I can feel your heartbeat." I whispered. "It's loud and fast." He
kissed my forehead. "It's always been you. So are we official now?" My cheeks reddened.
Mabuti na lang at nakasandal ako sa dibdib niya at baka makita niya ang mukha kong kanina pa
mapula.
"How about courting first? It's the traditional way of asking a woman to be in a relationship." I
teased. He let out a sexy groan.
"Courting is futile but if you want that, I will. I will court you every day. Araw-araw kitang liligawan
as long as you'll be my girl." Fluttered, I touched his shoulders and moved my fingers in circular
motion. "I'm just kidding, Kalev. Yes, we're official now." I muttered. He's the second person who
makes me feel alive. Curious about who's the first in line? It's my brother, Marco.
"Hindi ba tayo babalik sa grand ball? Sayang naman ang pagpunta natin dito."
"I prefer you in my bed. Making love. Doing mushy stuff with you. Quality time with my
girlfriend."
I pinched his cheeks. "Maybe later."
Kalev Stanislaski is officially my boyfriend. I don't know what will happen to us in the future but I
know for myself this relationship will work out. As of now, I want to be with him and enjoy every
moment together with his company.

😘
***
Horayyyy! Another chapterrrr~ Thank you for reading. I appreciate appreciation.

[ 34 CHAPTERXXXII ]
-------------------------------
Chapter XXXII: Dating Him
Marsh Lahm's Point of View          I woke up when I felt someone is licking me. Literally licking
me. Hindi ko maiwasan mapaungol when I felt something slick sensation on my private part!
And it took me only second to figure out what's happening. I'm naked and my legs were spread
apart.
Tumingin ako sa baba and I just saw Kalev between my thighs and gracefully eating me.
Kissing, licking, sucking me in my 'part' below my flat tummy. What a good way of waking me
up.
"You're awake..." He let out a sexy groan while dipping his head. I bite my lips when I felt
something building inside me. One of his hands placed on my clit and moving it in circular
motion. Mas lalo akong hindi makapagsalita sa ginagawa niya.
Matapos ang grand ball na pinuntahan namin kagabi umuwi kami sa penthouse ni Kalev and we
made love all night. I let him because I love him. If you'll ask me, wala siyang kapaguran. His
stamina is always perfect hundred percent and he's just so strong and never gets tired in bed.
"Fuck I can live like this forever." He whispered at tumaas ang halik niya. Giving me light kisses
on my abdomen and palming my two valleys.
"Morning, my love." His hair were messy and I can tell by his eyes that he's happy. Hindi na siya
nakakatakot tingnan tulad dati na para bang tinalo ang haring araw sa sobrang init ng ulo.
He's bright and handsome hunk with perfect sculpted abs and muscles were placed perfectly 
with matching biceps and all and I'm proud to call him my boyfriend.
I smiled back and give him a kiss on his lips where I can taste my own juices. We kissed
passionately, no tongue involved, just a mere touching of our lips. The kiss was slow and sweet.
Just like I'm a precious gem that need to be handled with care. I didn't know Kalev Stanislaski
has a soft spot. And I'm glad, dahil makikilala ko pa siya ng lubusan sa mga araw na daraan.
Maybe Kalev isn't that cold hearted and snob. Siguro panlabasa lang niya 'yon. There's a
mystery about him that I wanted to discover but for now, I'm going to enjoy his sweet kisses.
"Morning. Kumain ka na ba ng umagahan?" He lout a chuckle at inilagay ang kamay niya sa
magkabilang gilid ng ulo ko—supporting his weight. Pinagpantay niya ang tingin namin. Nasa
taas ko siya and I can feel his erection poking my tummy. It send shivers down to my spine.
"I'm already eating my breakfast. You taste sweet and fucking delectable wearing your birthday
suit." Hinalikan niya ang leeg ko as he caress one of my valley.
"Making me as your breakfast." I dryly commented. "Wala ka bang kapaguran. You keep on
licking and sucking me. Hindi ka ba nagsasawa?" Hindi makapaniwalang sambit ko. I can feel
the coldness cascade into my body but still nandoon pa rin ang init na pinaparamdam sa akin ni
Kalev. He's enjoying my body as much as I do.
I arched my body ng maramdaman kong gumagapang ang kamay niya papunta sa pribadong
parte ng katawan ko. And my toes curled when he started penetrating me using his two long
fingers. Entering me with desperation. I exhaled and a loud groan came out from my twitching
lips.
"Hmmm. My lovely girlfriend, feel what you're doing to me. I can't get enough of you." Nilagyan
niya ng unan ang likod ko kaya mas lalong naging elevated ang katawan ko. I'm moaning loudly
because he's driving me insane. He's definitely a good kisser and expert on this field. I gasped.
Napatingin ako sa kahabaan niya. It's long and hard and big. I mean wow. I never thought
looking at man's manhood could be this hot. There's a hot sensation stirring inside me.
"You're big." Hindi ko mapigilang sabi habang nakatingin pa rin sa kanyang pagkalalaki. He let
out a throatily laugh. Flashing a dirty smirk. "Yes I'm long and big and it's all yours." With a
ruffled sound he muttered.
"Wanna touch it? Go on, my buddy won't bite you." His voice were low but deep. It turns me on.
Everything about him turns me on...big time.
"My buddy here wants to feel your hand and move it up and down. Stroking me and make me
harder than a rock. He needs you." Sabi ni Kalev habang nakahawak pa rin sa dibdib ko. I
chuckled.
"Seriously Kalev? Did you just talk with your manhood in third person?" He mused, chuckling,
he nodded his head. May mga hibla ng buhok na bumaba sa may noo siya. He looks edible in
the morning.
I was tempted to touch him. But I still don't have the courage to be kinky.
"Maybe some other time?" I teased. I saw him gulped at mukhang nagpipigil.
"Just lay down and let me eat my breakfast."
IT'S ALREADY 1 P.M. ng bumangon kami at naglinis ng katawan. He's unstoppable. Holy
Guacamole! Kung hindi pa talaga ako makaramdam ng gutom—literally speaking. Hindi pa niya
ako titigilan. Napailing na lang at natawa. I think I need to exercise in order to keep up with his
stamina. I chuckled from that thought.
Dumiretso ako sa kusina. Siguro naliligo pa si Kalev. Binuksan ko ang ref. Punong-puno na ang
laman. May makikita ka pa ring bottle of beers pero may mga gulay na ito ang karne.
"Ano kayang masarap na lutuin." I mumbled with myself at tiningnan pa ang ibang laman ng ref.
I hope he loves steak. So I gathered all the ingredients to the island counter and wash them.
Nagsuot ako ng apron at nagsimula ng magluto ng maramdaman kong may matipunong bisig
na yumakay sa bewang ko. I can smell him from behind. His masculine scent that I want to sniff
everyday. He's hugging me from behind and I can feel my cheek burning. Mukhang mas unang
kumulo ang pisnge ko kesa sa niluluto ko.
"Hey beautiful, what are you cooking." He said and sniff me. Nagtaas ang balahibo ko dahil
nararamdaman ko ang hininga niya sa may batok ko. Kinurot ko ang tagiliran niya enough for
him not to be hurt. "Bolero. Maglagay ka na lang ng mga utensils sa dining table ng makakain
na tayo." I said at stir what I'm cooking. He pressed his lips on my neck and groan. "But I still
want to hug you from behind, love." Mas lalong humigpit ang hawak niya sa akin. I squealed like
a teen girl. "Kalev!" I said. Nakakakiliti kasi ang ginagawa niya.
May napapanood akong ganito sa movie were the man wraps his arms to the woman's waistline
and then they'll talk mushy stuffs. Pero hindi ko akalain na nakakaliti pala. Lalo na at tumatama
ang hininga ni Kalev sa batok ko at minsan naman sa earlobe ko. Babae lang ako minsan
marupok.
He rested his chin to my shoulder at ramdam kong nakasimangot siya. How cute! Kung wala
lang akong hawak na sandok baka kanina ko pa nakurot ang pisnge niya. 
"You're already my girlfriend yet tinatawag mo pa rin ako sa pangalan ko." His voice is back to
normal. When I say normal, he is using his signature cold and deep voice na para bang sa
North Pole pa hinugot. I chuckled. Nagtatampo ba siya?
Humarap ako sa kanya but still nakayakap pa rin siya sa bewang ko. Tumingala ako para
makita ko ang piercing blue eyes niya making an eye contact I smiled.
"You're already big for endearment, Kalev. Sige na maghain ka na sa lamesa para makakain na
rin tayo." He groan in protest. Kahit ang isang Kalev Stanislaski marunong din palang
magdabog. Napailing na lang ako at pinipigilan ang ngiting kumakawala sa labi ko. 
Inilagay ko ang steak sa isang plato at nilagay sa gitna ng lamesa.
"Let's eat." I said at umupo kaharap si Kalev na nakasimangot or rather wearing his cold look. I
thought I'm his baby but I think it's other way around. 
"Can you fill the glass with water, love."
Biglang umangat ang ulo niya at napatingin sa akin.
"What did you just say?" Magkasalubong ang kilay niya. Kumunot na din ang kilay ko sa tanong
niya. Hindi ba niya narinig ang sinabi ko? Hmp.
"I said can you fill the glass wi—"
"No, the last part."
"With water?"
"The last part, sweetheart. Say it again." Using his commanding voice, he isn't amused. May
munting ngiti ang sumilay sa labi ko.
"Love." I muttered and then he cussed. Hindi ba niya nagustuhan?
"Fuck." Sinamaan ko siya ng tingin.
"Stop cussing infront of the food."
"Sorry. I'm just out of words. This feeling is becoming out of hand. I love you." Hindi ko
maiwasang kiligin sa sinabi niya. He's so honest and down right outrageous.
"I love you too. Let's just eat and start practicing." Napagusapan na din namin na kailangan
namin paghandaan ang recital competition. Mabilis lang lumipas ang oras at isa pa malapit na
ang actual performance.
I'M HOPELESS. That's what I'm thinking right now. Nakaupo na ako sa bench at kaharap ko na
ang keyboard ng piano but still I can't keep up! I'm frustrated. Pitong taon akong tumigil sa
pagtugtog at sa tingin ko I'm not the old Marsh who can play the piano gracefully without
complications.
"Press the keys lightly, love. Hindi mo naman kailangan bilisan. Take your time. We need to
maintain a good tempo." Nasa tabi ko si Kalev, guiding me.
"Nangangalay na ang kamay ko." I pouted. There's no way  I can make it. 
"You can do this, love. Hindi mo naman kailangan biglain ang sarili mo. This may be hard for
you." Bumaba ang tingin ko sa sinabi.
"I felt horrible playing." There. I admit. It just don't feel right. Hinawakan niya ang kamay ko and
squeezed it lightly.
"The piano is part of you, sweetheart. Stop worrying for nothing."
Huminga ako ng malalim at sinalubong ang tingin ni Kalev.
"Let's do this Kalev. Get your violin and play with me."
***
Ngayon lang ako natagalan magud. Mian~ Shout out din doon sa mga kaibigan ko at kakilala
ako personally na nagbabasa nito.  Homyghad~ GASH SECRET LANG AHH
HAHAHAHAHAHHA. Enjoy reading.
[ 35 CHAPTERXXXIII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 33: Enjoy while it lasts

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
"Two order of Caramel Macchiato and Raspberry Waffles." I smiled while ordering and get a
cash out of my purse. Umoorder ako ng breakfast namin ni Kalev sa Waffle House Café.
Though, walking distance lang naman to mula sa kompanya.
Gusto pa ngang sumama ni Kalev sa akin pagpunta dito but he's too busy with pile of works to
do. He's been slacking off this past few days at natambakan na ng trabaho. I felt kinda guilty
kaya ngayon I'm doing my very best to take care of him and be his assistant at the same time. I
wanted to help him too.
Lalo na at masyado niya akong binibigyan ng pansin. I blushed from that thought. Halos hindi
na kami mapaghiwalay na dalawa at kung hindi ko pa siya pinilit na pumasok sa opisina ay
mukhang maghapon na naman kaming magkukulong sa loob ng penthouse niya. Maybe
practicing classical music and doing something wicked. Wickedly good and amazing. Specially,
malapit na ang recital competition. May mga oras na namamali pa rin ako sa pagpress ng mga
keys. Hindi ko mapigilan mapangiti lalo na at may iba't ibang imahe ang pumapasok sa aking
isipin.
"Here's your order Ma'am." I paid the bill at kinuha ang paper bag na may laman na pagkain.
"Thank you." Akmang aalis na ako when someone touches my elbow. Sisigaw na sana ako
dahil nagulat ako sa ginawa niya pero agad kong nakilala kung sino ang humawak sa siko ko.
"Austin?" Hindi makapaniwalang sabi ko. He flashed a playful grin. Still the same as before. His
charcoal black hair was kinda messy making him more charismatic. Ibang-iba ang hitsura niya
ng makita ko siya sa grand ball. Nakasuot kasi siya dati ng formal attire and his hair is combed
neatly and nicely. Pero ngayon nakasuot lang siya ng polo with matching denim jeans and
shoes. Mukha siyang Koreano na pinagpapantasyahan ng mga kababaihan sa social media.
Hindi ko pa rin akalain na makikita ko siya ulit.
"Sabi ko na nga ba, ikaw yan eh. After the grand ball hinanap kita pero mukhang umalis ka ng
maaga." Bigla akong nakaramdam ng guilt lalo na at naalala ko ang nangyari sa grand ball. He
was treated rudely by Kalev at hindi pa ako nakahingi ng maayos na paumanhin.
"Ah oo nga pala Austin, pasensiya ka na sa nangyari sa grand ball, you know..." sabi ko at
sinalubong ang tingin niya.
"Nah it's okay. So, may kasama ka ba pagpunta dito? Gusto mo sabayan kitang magbreakfast
or ako na lang sabayan mo tutal magisa lang naman akong kakain." Itinaas ko ang dalawang
paper bag and mumbled take out.
Nakita ko ang pagbaba ng balikat niya.   "Just this once Marsh, please? Ang tagal kitang hindi
nakita. Please let me. Ang dami kong gustong itanong sayo why things ended up like this." His
voice were longing and sad. Matiim siyang nakatingin sa akin at ang mga mata niya ay
nangungusap.
Oh no! Sa tuwing binibigyan ako ng ganyang tingin or what did they call that stare? Isn't it
puppy dog eyes? Kung bibigyan ako ng ganyang tingin hindi na ako makakatanggi pa. I sighed.
"Fine. Pero saglit lang dahil may trabaho pa akong gagawin." At tsaka baka lumamig ang kape
na inorder ko para kay Kalev.   Biglang sumigla ang mukha niya at iginaya ako papunta sa isang
bakanteng lamesa at upuan.   Umupo siya sa harapan ko at ako naman iniligay ko sa katabing
upuan ang dalawang paper bag na kanina ko pa dala-dala.   "Anong gusto mo? Sabihin mo
lang, my treat."
Tama bang um-oo ako kay Austin? Baka hinihintay na ako ni Kalev. Hays. Wala naman akong
ginagawang masaya pero nagguilty ako dahil kinakausap ko si Austin. Bakit naman hindi? May
pinagsamahan rin kami ng tao.   Pati ba naman ang isipan ko nagtatalo?
"Chocolate waffles na lang at pineapple juice." Sabi ko sa kanya. Tumayo siya at pumila sa
counter. Self service kasi dito at pay as you order. Wala pang limang minuto ng bumalik si
Austin sa table namin na may dalang tray na puno ng pagkain. Ganito ba siya kagutom para
umorder ng ganito karami?
"Let's eat." Ayan agad ang sinabi niya ng maupo siya at maibaba sa lamesa ang tray. "Hindi rin
naman ako magtatagal, Austin." Sambit ko. Bumaba ang tingin ko sa waffles at kinuha yun pati
na rin ang pineapple juice. I rest one of my hands sa taas ng lamesa.
"Babe..." Napaangat ang tingin ko kay Austin. Nakatingin siya sa akin like studying me and all.
"Babe..." kumunot ang noo ko sa sinabi niya. "I miss you..." nakatingin pa rin siya sa akin at
naalala kong babe pala ang endearment namin sa isa't-isa nung kami pa.
"Ang tagal kitang hinanap, Marsh. Iniisip ko pa rin kung bakit ka nakipaghiwalay sa akin, I didn't
even know what I've done wrong. Bigla ka na lang nawala na parang isang bula. You know how
devastated I felt when you left." Malungkot na sambit niya habang nakatingin sa akin.   "Sorry
Austin. Things got complicated." Gusto ko ng umalis at takbuhan na naman ang problema ko
but I realized I'm done running. I must face this. Kaya nanatili akong nakaupo at nakinig sa
kanya. He holds my hand na nakalagay sa tapat ng lamesa. He gripped my hands tightly pero
hindi ako nasasaktan. I just couldn't move it.
"Austin, ano ba ang ginagawa mo?" Takang tanong ko sa kanya.   "But now, you're infront of
me. Both of us were matured enough to handle a relationship. At hanggang ngayon nandito ka
pa rin sa puso ko, Marsh. Hindi ka nawala."
Gusto kong tanggalin ang pagkahawak niya sa kamay ko. Pero kahit anong galaw ko hindi
maalis ang pagkahawak niya. I sighed at umiwas ng tingin kay Austin. Austin is looking at me,
intently and that makes me uncomfortable in my seat.   Ngunit sa pagiwas ko ng tingin may
nakita akong pamilyar na tao. She was there at the corner of the shop, sitting comfortably in the
sofa, smiling wickedly, arms crossed above her chest. Smirking at my direction. Itinaas niya ang
hawak niyang cup of coffee at tinaas na akala mo ay magsasabi ng cheers.
Haneah?
"Please, Marsh. Come back to me." Bumalik ang tingin ko kay Austin.   "Austin, I'm really really
sorry kung bigla na lang akong umalis ng walang paalam. Pero hindi na ako ang dating Marsh
na kilala mo. I need to go." Tumayo ako and using a little force natanggal ang pagkahawak niya
sa kamay ko. Kinuha ko ang  paper bag at akmang aalis ng mahawakan naman niya ang balikat
ko.  
"You must be forgetting something, Marsh. Nung nakipaghiwalay ka hindi ako pumayag. It isn't
a mutual break up. So basically, you're still mine." Seryosong pahayag niya na.  "Stop talking
nonsense." Iwas ko at tsaka lumabas sa Waffle House Café.
NAGLAKAD ako pabalik ng kompanya. It took me 15 minutes to walk. Para sa akin mas
maayos maglakad kasi it serves as an exercise, tutal hindi naman ako physically fit kaya kahit
sa simpelng paglalakad maging flexible naman ako. Pumasok ako sa loob at agad naghintay na
magbukas ang elevator.
I count from one to ten habang naghihintay.
*ting*
The long wait is done. Akmang papasok na ako sa loob when I saw who's inside the elevator.
Haneah?
"Well, what a pleasant surprise." She's wearing a red dress at mapula din ang labi niya that
matches the color of her dress. Itim naman ang suot niyang heels. This woman is always
dressed to kill.
"Anong ginagawa mo dito?" Tanong ko. I thought she's banned going inside the company.
That's what I heard from Nikos.
"Nothing that concerns you so better stop poking your nose in the wrong direction."
Naghahanap na naman ba ng away ang babaeng ito? 
Lumabas siya sa loob ng elevator at ngayon nasa harapan ko na siya. "Have a nice day ahead,
Marsh." Smirking—she left. Weird. The girl who hates me wishes me to have a nice day. Parang
may kakaiba. Everything seems off and kinda strange. Hindi ko na lang ito pinansin at pumasok
sa loob ng elevator as I pressed the 9th floor.
5 minutes later nakalabas na din ako ng elevator at nasa 9th floor na. "Morning Marsh." Bati sa
akin ni Erin. "Hi, Erin." Balik ko. Naglakad ako at pumasok sa loob ng malaking opisina ni Kalev.
I thought he'll gonna greet me with a happy face and good expression. Basag ko sa
katahimikan.
"I bought breakfast."
"Throw them away." Napatigil ako sa sinabi niya at malayang pinagmasdan ang mukha niya.
His face were dark at parang may maitim na ulap sa taas ng ulo niya. His hands were rested at
the top of the table.He is mad right now, I can feel it. At ang tenga niya ay namumula and his
jaw is clenched na para bang may pinipigilan. His hands were curled into fist at naglalabasan
ang ugat.
Kung hindi siya mukhang galit baka kanina pa ako nag fan girl sa harapan niya dahil ang sexy
niyang tingnan but I knew better. "Kalev?" Tawag ko sa pangalan niya. He broke into a fit
sarcastic laughter.
"Really? Back into first name basis, aren't we? Bakit? Nakahanap ka na ba puwedeng ipalit sa
akin? Tell me!" His voice boomed inside his office. Nakatayo na siya at ang dalawang kamay
niya ay nakahawak sa office table niya. "What do you mean?" Nakakunot na tanong ko. I'm
really shy when I'm calling him endearment pero sa tingin ko kailangan ko ng sanayin ang sarili
ko at tawagin siyang "love" or ang sweet names. Siguro, mas gusto niya yun. Then be it. I really
love him and I don't want him to be mad. Para bang bigla na lang mahahati sa dalawa ang lupa
at kakainin ka sa tuwing nagagalit siya.
"Drop the fucking act and explain this to me before I set the whole company in fire!" Pagalit na
sabi niya at hinagis ang mga litrato na nakalagay sa ibabaw ng lamesa niya. The pictures were
scattered on the floor kaya dahan dahan akong lumapit para makita kung anong ikinagagalit
niya.
I picked one picture at nagulat ako sa nakita ko. It was me and Austin in the photograph. Austin
is holding my hand and we're both talking. Kanina lang to nangyari pero nakarating agad kay
Kalev. We really can't underestimate technology.
Huminga ako ng malalim at hindi sinabayan ang galit niya.
"Who gave this to you." Malamlam kong pahayag. His still mad. "It doesn't matter." "You don't
need to tell me." Ayan na lang ang nasabi ko dahil sa tingin ko alam ko na kung sino ang
nagdala ng mga litrato. It was Haneah.
That girl is really getting in my nerves. Pinalagpas ko na ang ginawa niya sa akin but once she
do something funny again I won't let her off the hook.
"This is just a misunderstanding. I saw Austin this morning and ask me if I could give him time,
so I did. He hold my hand asking me to come back to his arms again but I refused. I refused
because I love you. If you're thinking negative things about me right now it's better to rearrange
your thoughts." Medyo tumaas ang boses ko.
"I got scared that you two will be back together and left me behind, Marsh. Ayoko lang naman
na may humahawak sayo na ibang lalaki maliban sa akin. That's why I'm jumping into
conclusions. You're mine." He possessively said that sent shivers down to my spine.
Huminga ako ng malalim at sinalubong ang mukha niya.
"Do you trust me?"
"Of course I do! But I don't trust the people around you specially male species that can take you
away from me." Lumapit ako sa kanya at hinawakan ang magkabilang braso niya.
Hindi ko mapigilang mapangite sa sitwasyon namin ngayon. Siguro baliw na talaga ako pero
ang iniisip ko ngayon ay kung gaano kamahal ang lalaking kaharap ko. Takot siyang mawala
ako pero mas takot akong mawala siya sa akin. Sa nature ng trabaho niya marami siyang
nakikilala at makikilalang mas better sa akin. Mga mayayamang tao o kaya naman sexy at
magagandang mga babae na successful sa buhay yet he's with me.
"Wag kang magselos sa simpleng litrato lang, love. Hindi ako mawawala sayo. Masyado kitang
mahal para iwan lang." I kissed his lips and he kissed me back and then he hugged me. He
rested his chin to my shoulders. I can feel the regret in his voice "I'm sorry, love. Sobra akong
nagselos nung nakita kong nakahawak siya sa kamay ko. I'm ready to kill that man in any
minute. I'm sorry for being a douche bag and for jumping out into conclusion. It won't happen
again, I promise. As long as you stayed by my side. I love you so damn much, baby."
Yumakap ako pabalik sa kanya. This is Kalev Stanislaski, always asking for assurance that I am
his. Hindi mo aakalain na sa sobrang guwapo ng isang to kailangan pa ng assurance na dapat
nga ako ang matakot na mawala siya. Well, sa una pa lang sa kanya lang naman talaga ako.
This man never failed to make my heart flutter.
"So can we have breakfast now?"
***
Sorry for the typos and grammatical error.

[ 36 CHAPTERXXXIV ]
-------------------------------
Chapter 34: Family Date
Marsh Lahm's Point of View
Matiim akong nakatingin kay Kalev at kay Marco na naglalaro sa hospital bed. Both
laughing and giggling from time to time. I can't help but to smile and something just caress my
heart from the sight. Ang gandang panoorin ng dalawang naglalaro. At si Marco naman ay
mukhang enjoy na enjoy na kinakausap si Kalev. And about Kalev, he can handle a child very
well, I think he will become a good father in the future.
Nakatayo ako habang kinakausap ni Dr. Jack Frost a.k.a Alexander. Nasasanay na akong
tawagin siyang Jack Frost dahil sa hitsura niya. Pero hindi ko maiwasang mapatingin sa pwesto
nila Kalev.
"You can take him home, Marsh. But make sure he'll take all the meds on time. Alam ko ang
pakiramdam ng nakatira na sa hospital. Trust me, it's not a good idea." Kinuha ko ang receipt na
may nakalagay ng lahat ng gamot para kay Marco.
"I'm really thankful for saving my brother's life." He pats my shoulder. "No biggie." Parehas
kaming tumingin sa dalawang taong naglalaro na para bang bata. Marco is still a kiddo, though.
Pero si Kalev? Acting like a child is a new accomplishment for him.
"I never saw him smile widely like that. May mabuti rin palang dulot ang pagrating mo sa buhay
niya Marsh." Tumingala ako upang makita si Jack—Alexander.
"He's really not like that. He never smile. He never laugh. He's dull." He sighed. "Everyone has
a dark side and bad past. He's no exception. But having you here is like a blessing. I think the
broken pieces of him is restarting to collide. I need to go." Naguguluhan ako sa sinabi ni
Alexander. I want to ask more but he turned his back at me and stormed out the room. What is
he trying to say? Come to think of it, I never knew everything about him. Bilang lang sa kamay
ko ang alam ko sa kanya.
Nabalik ang atensiyon ko kay Kalev but he's looking at me too. I smiled at lumapit sa kanila.
"Ate sabi ni Kuya Kalev dadalhin daw niya ako sa amusement park."
Tumingin ako kay Kalev na naguguluhan.
"Busy si Kuya Kalev mo, Marco. Sa sunod na lang kaya?" He's always busy though pero
nabibigyan niya ng oras ang iba pang bagay and gives extra effort.
Nakita ko ang paglungkot ng mukha ng kapatid ko.
"Marsh, it's okay. Consider this as my leisure time. I just wanted to have a quality time with your
brother. Magiging kapatid ko na din siya in the near future." Prente niyang sabi at para bang
normal na lang sa kanya ang magsalita ng ganon. Hindi na sa ayaw ko pero parang indirect
proposal ang ginagawa niya. Na para bang ako ang pinakamaswerteng babae na papakasalan
niya. Since mahirap magsalita ng patapos, hindi ko na muna iisipin ang iba pang mga bagay.
"Ate! Ate! Pumayag ka na tsaka hindi pa ako nakakalabas ng hospital simula ng operahan ako.
At tsaka sabi ni Kuya Doc puwede naman akong magplay sa labas dahil magaling na ako." I
sighed in defeat.
"Wala na akong magagawa. Sige na magpalit ka na ng damit mo ng makaalis na tayo." I
muttered.
"Narinig mo yun, Kuya Kalev?! Pumayag na si Ate Marsh. Yeey~."
"I heard it loud and clear. High five, kiddo." At nagkasundo na talaga ang dalawa. I faked a snort
pero halata pa rin ang kasiyahan ko through my facial expression. Kasama ko ang dalawang
taong importanteng tao sa aking buhay. I never ever think about this day to come.
Buong akala ko puro paghihirap na lang ang mararanasan ko sa buong buhay ko. But no, even
if you lose your path or experiencing hardships in life and then you give up if one thing is
suppose to happen it will happen. Since it was God's plan for each every one of us.
"Magpapalit na ako, ate. Wag niyo akong iiwan ahh." My little brother excitedly said as he went
for his backpack and get his clothes and went straight to the comfort room. Napatingin naman
ako kay Kalev na nakaupo pa rin hanggang ngayon habang ang dalawang kamay niya ay
nakatukod sa kama to support his weight.
"I love you." He said, without voice just the movement of his mouth. Napatawa ako sa kanya at
lumapit sa kanya. "Thank you." Dahil sinamahan niya akong magsundo kay Marco, this and
that. Malaki talaga ang naitulong ni Kalev sa akin. He pulled my arms at napaupo ako sa lap
niya. What a naughty man!
"Kalev! Baka makita tayo ni Marco." Hindi niya ako pinansin instead, he bury his head to my
neck.
"I miss you, baby. I feel like I haven't see you forever." I playfully pinches his bicep.
"If forever means this morning, it's been quite some time now." I replied. Tinaas niya ang ulo
niya and then met my gaze. His arms wrapped around my waistline as I encircled my arms
around his neck. Para tuloy akong bata na nakakandong kay Kalev. Tutal malaki at matangkad
siya at sa akin naman masyadong kinulang ang height ko.
"You've been with Alexander since this morning, at ako naman naiwan lang dito sa kwarto
because you don't want me to come along. At kanina pa din kayo naguusap ni Alexander. Nung
umalis ka papunta sa office niya naguusap kayo, pagbalik mo naman dito naguusap pa rin kayo.
You don't have any time for me. I'm wounded."
Pinagusapan kasi namin ni Alexander sa office niya ang discharge form ni Marco plus mga
dapat  pang ayusin. And then ng makabalik kami sa kwarto na ginagamit ni Marco binigay niya
sa akin ang mga prescription ng mga gamot na dapat iintake ng kapatid ko.
"What are you laughing at?" Masungit na sabi niya sa akin at nakasimangot pa. Aba! At
nagtampo pa.
"Wag kang magselos kay Alexander." Natatawang pahayag ko. He tsked.
"Still pissed. Do something about it." Nagisip ako kung anong puwedeng sabihin.
"Ahmm." Tiningnan ko siya ng mabuti "You looked ravishingly handsome today." As always.
Umiling siya.
"Not working. Matagal ko ng alam yan." Napairap na lang ako sa hangin. Conceited jerk.
"Faster, baby. I'm waiting. You don't want your brother to see us in this kind of position, do
you?"  Ginawa ko na lang ang unang dumaan sa isip ko.
"I," And then I kissed his right cheeks. "love," and then I kissed his left cheeks, "you." And
kissed his lips at agad naman niyang tinugon.
"Ate Marsh, Kuya Kalev. Tara na!" Agad kong nilayo ang mukha ko kay Kalev at tumayo mula sa
pagkaupo ko sa lap niya. Lumabas ang kapatid ko sa comfort room na may inosenteng mukha.
"Ehem." I faked cough. At inayos ang sarili ko and Kalev do the same. Hinawi niya ang magulo
niyang buhok at tumayo. May maliit na ngiti sa labi niya, gone the moody aura.
"Let's go."
AMUSEMENT PARK
THE PLACE is huge and nice. May mga foods stalls and rides din. Medyo may karamihan din
ang taong nandito ngayon. Hawak ko si Marco sa kanang kamay niya at si Kalev naman sa
kabila. Mabuti na lang at hindi ako naka office attire. Simpleng jeans lang at shirt at mabuti na
lang din na hindi naka tuxedo 'tong si Kalev kundi agaw pansin na naman. He's with his casual
outfit today. A billionaire going inside the amusement park and considered it as leisure is hard to
digest.
"Ate Marsh! Doon tayo dali." Turo ni Marco sa roller coaster ride. Umupo ako at pumantay kay
Marco. "Vigorous activities is a big no no, Marco. Dapat mga mild activities lang like
merry-go-round. Dahil kagagaling mo lang from chronic disease." He flashed an innocent smile.
"Sige ate. Siguro next time na lang kapag big boy na ako kagaya ni Kuya Kalev." Sabi niya at
tumingin kay Kuya Kalev.
Kalev pats his head. "Don't worry kiddo. Marami ka ng panahon para gawin ang lahat ng gusto
mo. Dahil bata ka pa naman mas marami ka pang magagawa sa buhay mo. Maybe something
meaningful as long as you don't regret what will you do." Makahulugan niyang sinabi.
THE THREE of us enjoyed the whole afternoon. Our day is full of laughter and joy.
Sinasamahan namin si Marco kung saan niya gustong pumunta lalo na sa mga kiddy rides na
gusto niyang subukan at halos maikot na naman ang buong lugar. And Kalev is always stealing
kisses from time to time sa tuwing hindi nakatingin sa amin si Marco. He's extra sweet today.
Hugging me from behind. Making me one of his priority. Plus, he's so good to Marco at parang
tinuturing niyang kapatid ang kapatid ko. He's so lovely.
"Are you hungry?" Tanong ni Kalev.
"I think so." I said. Siguro dahil na rin sa pagod maglakad nakakaramdam na rin ako ng gutom.
"Okay, follow me." So I did.
Tumigil kami sa isang malaking puno. There's a blanket katabi ng naglalakihang ugat nito at
mayroong ding basket. "C'mon, Marsh." Kalev said and then holds my hand as he pulled me. Si
Marco naman nagtagal ng sapatos niya as he walked and run in the fine green grass.
"Hey! This isn't ours." I exclaimed but he just chuckled. "Silly. I organized this." sabi niya.
"You do?" But he's with us the whole day. Kailan niya pa naayos to? I am amused right now.
"Let me rephrase what I've just said. As long as I wanted to have the credit but I asked for help.
This was already planned and I want to have a picnic date with you." I smiled.
"You really do know how to enter woman's heart, don't you? I could kiss you right now." He
flashed a grin.
"Why not? You could give your man a kiss right now." He said mischievously.
"Maybe later?" As I glanced at my brother. Still running through the soft grass.
Kalev guided me to sit down at siya na din mismo ang naglabas ng mga pagkain mula sa picnic
basket and saw varied of foods. There's also a bottle of white wine.
"Let's eat." He opened one lunch box. Tinawag ko si Marco at umupo sa tabi ko at si Kalev
naman ay nasa harapan ko. Kinuha ko ang inabot niyang lunch box and get the spoon and fork.
"How about you? Why don't you start eating too?" I asked. Marco is already eating and I'm
about to eat a spoonful of rice.
"Go ahead. I just want to stare at you." He said directly that made me blush.
"You naughty man."
"You'll see how naughty I am." And give me a meaningful stare.
Uh—oh. I think I know what will happen next.

💕
***
Sorry kung natagalan. Enjoy reading

[ 37 CHAPTERXXXV ]
-------------------------------

Chapter XXXV: Curiosity 

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
"Handa ka na ba sa pagalis mamaya?" Kalev asked while signing some papers on his desk. At
ako naman ay inaayos ang mga schedule niya for today. And nakikifree internet na din dahil
naghahanap na ako ng puwedeng lipatan na apartment that cost reasonable. Hindi naman tama
na tumira na lang sa penthouse kasama ang kapatid ko. It's too much. I really appreciate
everything yet may hangganan ang lahat. Plus nakakahiya naman kay Kalev at kahit na
boyfriend ko siya still it's the proper thing to do. And about Marco...
Marco is going to school now. Mabuti na lang at umabot pa siya sa enrollment and I'm happy to
see my brother going in school without any complications. Thank God. So far, so good.
"Ano? Pagalis? At sana naman tayo pupunta?" Ibinaba niya ang hawak niyang fountain as he
intertwined his hands with one another. I'm not aware what's happening. 
"Rome, Italy, Marsh. We need to go to the Italy to attend the competition, unless you changed
your mind and decided to stay here in the country." He sarcastically said that made me pouted
my lips. Most of the time he's so coldhearted and giving me cold shoulders but he's really like
that. Normal na ang pagiging ganyan ni Kalev. That's one of his personality, I have nothing to do
with it. I just need to accept it and love everything about him. 
Being a jerk now, aren't we
"Italy? Wala akong nabasa sa invitation na sa Italy gaganapin ang recital competition." Three
days from now gaganapin na ang competition.
"Change of location, baby. Since all the competitors came from different countries all over the
globe. We'll be leaving tonight." Tumayo siya at naglakad palapit sa station ko at ako naman ay
nanatiling nakaupo.
"Mamaya agad? I don't have passport at hindi pa nakahanda ang mga gamit na dadalhin ko."
He approached me and kissed my forehead. "Don't worry about the small details. Puwede ka
namang bumalik sa penthouse and pack all the necessary things, baby. You can go, now."
"My work isn't done yet. You're not coming with me?" I muttered and become curious. He don't
want me to go anywhere without him. Well, siguro nagiba ang ihip ng hangin. Okay lang naman
sa akin, I can manage.
"Don't worry about your work, darling. I'm sorry baby, I can't come with you. I still had some
business to deal with. I'm all yours this evening." And then he winked that made me laugh.
Napatango na lang ako at tumayo. Putting some things inside my back pack.
"Gonna miss you, darling." He said and kissed my lips and I responded.
"Gerald will take you home." I carry my bag and waved at him. Gerald is his personal driver.
"Puwede naman akong magcommute." 
"It's a no. Public transportation isn't safe." At agad nagsalubong ang kilay niya.

"Ilang beses na akong sumakay sa public transportation this past few years and nothing
happened to me. At tsaka baka makaabala pa ako sa driver mo." He pulled me and encircled
his arms to my waistline.
"I'm just protecting you, Marsh. I want you to be safe all the time." Inilapit niya ang mukha niya
sa akin. "Protecting me? From what?" Nakakunot noo kong tanong. "I'm always safe, though." I
added humawak sa dibdib niya dahil napakalapit na namin sa isa't isa.
"We never know." Makahulugan niyang sabi.
"But Kalev? Why are we leaving so early? I mean we still had three days to get ready bago
magstart ang competition." I asked and trailed my fingers to his chest.
"I..." he faked a cough. "Have some business to deal with. Need to meet investors in Italy. I think
it's the perfect opportunity, don't you think? And I want you all by myself." I smiled. "I'm yours."
He flashed a sexy grin.
"Always." Yinakap niya ako. At dahil maliit lang akong babae, kapantay lang ng tenga ko ang
labi niya and I can hear his faint breathing. "No man can take you away from me. I'm going to kill
whoever tries. Right from the start, you are already mine." He whispered but I can't heard
clearly. "Right from the start, Marsh. Right from the start." Humiwalay ako ng yakap at tumingin
sa kanya. "Right from the start—what?" He pinched my nose playfully.
"Nothing, silly. It's really hard to send you home without me but you need to go, baby." I kissed
his cheeks. "Alright, love. See you." And turn my heels away from him.
Dumiretso ako sa elevator and click basement.
*ting*
Papasok na sana ako ng makita ko si Nikos, wearing tux and tie. Mukhang ito ang business
attire niya, may hawak siyang case and I think he's not here to play around rather do some
business with Kalev.
"Oh, hi there lovely Marsh!" He exclaimed. "Hi, Nikos. All girls are all lovely to you." Napailing na
lang ako at natawa. Tumingin siya sa wrist watch niya at kumunot ang noo. "Shoot! I'm late! I
need to go lovely Marsh. The beast need his handsome lawyer." At dali daling lumabas ng
elevator at naglakad papunta sa office ni Kalev. A beast, huh? A handsome beast perhaps? I
giggled as I imagined my handsome prince—none other than Kalev Stanislaski. But, on the
other hand, why does Kalev need a lawyer? Never mind. It must be purely business.
I'M SITTING at the backseat of the car and Gerald is now driving back home. At nakarating
naman kami agad sa penthouse safe and sound. I'm already walking inside para sumakay sa
elevator but one one the hotel staff approached me for some unknown reason. "Miss Marsh
Lahm?"
"Yes?" I asked.
"There's a delivery for you." As he handed me a wrapped box. Another box, eh? "Kanino po ito
galing? I mean I'm always receiving gifts for a year pero hindi ko pa rin nalalaman ang pangalan
ng taong nagbibigay ng regalo sa akin." Tumingin naman ang staff sa akin.
"Sorry Miss, confidential po kasi... You need to sign here para makasigurado po kaming
natanggap mo ng maayos ang delivery na para sayo." Failed. Hindi ko pa rin pala malalaman
kung sino ang nagpapadala. It's already 25th of the month at lagi pa rin akong nakakatanggap
ng regalo at kahit lumipat na ako ng tinitirhan nalalam pa rin niya kung saan ipapadala ang
parchment. Creepy and scary.
I SIGHED as I entered the penthouse at agad dumiretso sa inuukupahan kong kwarto. Nilagay
ko ang natanggap kong regalo at inilagay sa mga kasamahan nito. Yes, I brought all the gifts
with me ng lumipat dito sa penthouse ni Kalev. Because I'm hoping in the future malalaman ko
rin kung sino ang nagpapadala nito at ibabalik ko lahat ng binigay niya sa akin. I don't need gifts
all I need is an apology. A sincere one.
"I'm sorry." Basa ko sa sticky note na nakalagay kasama ng regalo. Same penmanship. Same
letter. 
"I need to pack my things. Hindi ko dapat iniisip ang iba pang mga bagay." I folded some clothes
at nilagay yun sa loob ng bag pack ko. Clothes good for three days. I wonder if Kalev already
packed his thing. Maybe not, he don't have any time. Nang matapos kong ayusin ang mga
gamit na dadalhin ko, I'd to decided to pack his things too. Since, I know what he needed at
tsaka lagi ko din napapansin ang fashion style niya since lagi ko na siyang kasama.
I entered his huge room at dumiretso sa walk in closet niya. Get all he need and pack it all.
Within 30 minutes, natapos na din ako sa ginagawa ko. Palabas na sana ako dala ang luggage
niya but something caught my attention. I sighed. Mga nakakalat na papeles. Don't get me
wrong, his room is clean but the only thing that is unorganized is the papers at the top of the
small table. Lumakad ako palapit doon at inayos ang mga papel na nakakalat. There's a bold
word written in the first page.
 CONFIDENTIAL
 At bakit naman may nakalagay na ganitong kaimportanteng documents si Kalev. this supposed
to be in his office. And something is written below. 
Kalev Stanislaski
Is this his penmanship? If ever it is, para bang nakita ko na ito dati. Siguro kaparehas lang ng
sulat niya. Quite familiar. 
As curious that I am, akmang titingnan ko na ang iba pang pages ng papeles ng tumunog nag
door bell.
"Sino naman ang pupunta dito ng ganitong oras? Maybe Tori and Elizabeth." Bulong ko sa sarili
ko at inayos na lang ang pagkalagay ng mga papel sa loob ng folder at bumaba.
"Another gift for Miss Marsh Lahm." There stood the same staff na lumapit sa akin kanina bago
ako tumaas. Nasa likod naman niya si Gerald, maybe assisting the staff.
"Another one?"
"Yes Miss Marsh. Here, please sign this." Halos kumunot na ang noo ko.
I get the box, medyo may kalakihan ang kahon. I signed the paper at ang alam ko na lang ay
umalis na ang staff at si Gerald. Maybe I'm preoccupied.  I checked the card. Toddles! Ang
nakalagay doon, it is not hand written, it's printed.
"Who always talks in riddles?" as I read the letter.  
"The answer is inside." Napatingin ako sa malaking kahon. It's black in color and a red ribbon. 
As I opened the box, my breath hitched, my face paled, my eyes almost dropped off, I almost
got a heart attack. There's a snake inside the box and it's going to attack me in any seconds. 
* * * 
Mz: So yeah, tuloy tuloy na to. Suppoooort. Thank you for reading. 
[ 38 CHAPTERXXXVI ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 36: Rome, Italy

Marsh Lahm's Point of View                "Drink this, baby." Kalev give me a glass of water. Kinuha
ko ito at agad ininom to calm myself. I almost got bit by a snake. Mabuti na lang nakatakbo ako
agad and asked for help. I was glued in my place pero natuhan ako ahad when I heard it hissed.
Pumasok naman agad ang personal driver ni Kalev at inalalayan ako hanggang sa hindi ko na
makita ang ahas na 'yun. And then I bet Gerald called Kalev and he hurriedly went here. What a
loyal man, he got. I'm in his room at nakaupo ako sa kama niya. And about the snake? Hindi ko
na alam kung nasaan ito. Maybe they already killed it or put it in a cage.
Hawak hawak niya ang card na kasama sa kahon. Reading it.
"The snake is venomous. Your life could be taken away for just one bite. Good thing naka takbo
ka kaagad." Halata ang pagalala sa boses ni Kalev. I nodded my head to agree.
"Mabuti na lang talaga." Mahinang sabi ko. "That moment, I was out of breath, couldn't move a
muscle." Malamlam kong sabi. Bigla akong nawalan ng energy. I was drained. Siguro ganoon
talaga kapag nasa harapan mo ang ikakapahamak mo or worse meeting your death. Hindi ka
makakapagisip ng puwede agad gawin o actions in order to get out from the horrible situation.
My mind really went blank.
"Tell me what you're thinking right now." Hindi ko pala napansin na nakatulala lang ako at
nakatitig sa kawalan. I just couldn't think straight.
"Honey, please look at me." He cupped my cheeks at pinaharap ang mukha ko sa kanya. He
leveled his head to mine and touched my hand na nakalagay sa binti ko. I'm shaking!
"I'm still nervous, love. I mean sino naman ang magpapadala sa akin ng isang ahas. Is there
someone trying to kill me? But why? As far as I know wala naman akong kaaway at ito ang
unang beses na nakaencounter ng ganito—."
"Darling, don't think too much. Ako na ang bahala dito, alright? I'm going to tracked whoever
delivered that thing. Trust me." Umiling ako at ibinaba sa nightstand ang basong hawak ko.
"Paano kung hindi lang ito ang mangyari? Goodness! I almost got a heart attacked. Paano
kung—." He shut me off by putting his lips to mine. Kissing me and maybe knocking some
senses. He made me open my mouth for him. Having a better access. Our tongue tangled as
the kiss deepens.
Lahat ng inaalala ko bigla na lang nawala sa utak ko. He pushed me lightly in the bed still kisses
me roughly. What happened earlier left my mind and the only thing I could think about now is the
wet kisses that Kalev is giving me. Unbelievable!
He continued kissing me as his hands roamed to my upper body. "Better way in shutting me up,
Mister Stanislaski." I whispered as I catch my breath. He let out a throaty laugh. "Stop
overthinking, baby. I'll handle everything. No one can ever harm you, not in my watch." Sabi niya
at hinalikan ng mariin ang nuo ko. Tumango na lang ako dahil halos hindi pa rin ako
makapagsalita. I can still feel his lips to mine. Bumaba ang halik niya to my nose at hahalikan
na sana ang labi ko ng tumunog ang mobile phone niya.
"Answer it. Baka importante." He groaned in frustration at umalis sa ibabaw ko. He fished his
phone inside his pocket and answered the call at ako naman tumayo sa pagkahiga at inayos
ang buhok ko. Didn't think that his kisses can calm me.
"Nikos." Rinig kong sabi niya. 
"Yes. Do that. Call Vetellì too. He can help." Nakaharap siya sa akin at kitang kita ko ang facial
expression niya pero agad siyang tumalikod. "That's bullshit Nikos! Don't add fuel to the fire.
Hanapin niyo kung sino man ang nagpadala ng ahas kay Marsh. Do everything dahil kung ako
na ang kumilos, you know what will happen." Napataas ang kilay ko. Ano kaya ang
pinaguusapan nila ni Nikos. His voice holds menace. "Ready my plane, aalis kami ng bansa."
And he ended the call. Humarap siya at tumuon ang atensiyon niya sa akin.
"We need to go, baby. Did you already packed all your necessities?" Tumayo ako sa pagkaupo.
"To Rome, Italy?"
"Yes. We also need to practice, sweetheart."
"But how about my little brother? Wala siyang makakasama. Hindi ko naman puwedeng iwan
ang kapatid ko dito." Bigla kong naalala si Marco.
"Marco is with Tori's care. Siya na muna ang magaalaga kay Marco dito. He'll be safer here in
the country." Noong mga panahon na nasa hospital si Marco, palaging nandoon si Tori and
Nikos specially Elizabeth at sabing may ginagawa lang siyang importante sa hospital ni
Alexander. Nandoon sila lagi at binabantayan ang kapatid ko keeping him company. They
already seems close at wala namang kaso sa akin kung si Tori muna ang magaalaga sa kapatid
ko.
And then, isa sa mga naiisip ko is why Kalev is always saying the word "safe" and "danger". I
can feel it. He's keeping a secret. Pero bakit hindi niya masabi sa akin. I'm his girlfriend for
Pete's sake. I only know one thing: Something is going on and he didn't want to tell me a thing.
Hindi ko tuloy maiwasan magisip ng mga possibilities kung bakit hindi niya sinasabi sa akin. It's
either;
One: He didn't want me to worry. Two: It's something to do with me. And three: He's keeping it
from me because he usually handle everything, with his own mean. And four: All of the above or
none of the above.
But to sum it all up sooner or later malalaman ko din kung ano ang nangyayari.
"Spacing out again, baby." Kalev said as he flicked my forehead, hindi naman masakit tama
lang para makuha ang atensiyon ko.
"Hmp. You don't need to flicked my forehead just to have my attention." Nakasimangot kong
pahayag. Ngumisi naman siya ng nakakaloko.
"Alright, hahalikan na lang kita para makuha ko ang atensiyon mo." He muttered mischievously.
I laughed. "Wala ka pa ngang ginagawa pero nakuha mo na agad ang atensiyon ko, paano kaya
kung meron na?" Napapangiti na lang ako habang naiisip ang una naming pagkikita. The first
time I laid my eyes on him bigla akong nakaramdam ng kakaiba because he's so attractive kaya
nagkaroon ako agad ng mild feelings called attraction. Napasinghap siya sa sinabi ko at nakita
ko ang pamumula ng tenga niya.
"Oh my. Don't tell me kinikilig ka?" It's my turn to laugh and grin because I caught him off guard.
"Si Kalev Stanislaski kinikilig. Yieeeeh." Sinamaan niya ako ng tingin but I keep on teasing him.
"I won't tell you, then." Masungit na sabi niya. But his ears were still red in color, and then bigla
na lang siyang nag smirk. No, it's a dirty smirk. Na akala mo ay may naisip na
kakaiba—kababalaghan.
"Ang sabi mo wala pa akong ginagawa but I already caught your attention, correct?" Seryosong
sabi. At ako naman ay unti-onting tumango. "Ahuh. That's right."
"Ready yourself, dahil ngayon may gagawin na ako sayo. Siguro naman pagkatapos nito sakin
na buong atensiyon mo." Biglang kumunot ang noo ko, my turn to frown.
"A-anong gagawin mo?" Humakbang siya palapit sa akin at ako naman ay humakbang paatras.
"Kyaaaaahhhhh." I shouted ng bigla na lang niya akong hinila at tinulak pahiga sa kama niya.
And then he started tickling me. "Stop, baby. Pleassseeeeeee." And laugh harder. "It's payback
time, sweetheart." Pilit kong tumatayo at kumakawala sa pagkahawak niya pero nahihila niya
ako pabalik sa pagkahiga sa kama.
The room is now full of so much teasing and laughter, at nawawala na rin sa isipan ko ang
nangyari kanina.
I keep on struggling dahil nakikiliti talaga ang ginagawa niya, nasasabunutan ko na siya, at
nasisipa, pero dahil sa sobrang kulit ko sa kama at muntik ko na siyang masipa biglang dumako
ang kamay niya sa dibdib ko. Accidentally cupping my breast.
"Kalev!" Sigaw ko when he moved his hands. Para bang may kinakapa ang kamay habang
nakahawak sa magkabilang dibdib ko.
"So soft and tender even you have your clothes on." With this man lahat ng bagay nagiging
kinky.
"Ang kamay mo Mister Stanislaski, masyado kang nawiwili." He let out a sexy groan and
chuckles. "Just one round baby." Mapang akit niyang sabi. Oh no! Ang kahinaan ko na naman.
Ang pagaakit niya sa akin. Ka-akit akit naman talaga ang isang to.
Sasagot na sana ako ng biglang tumunog ang phone niya. A text message perhaps. "Check it.
Must be important." I stick my tongue out dahil nakatakas ako sa pagaakit niya. I must give a
reward whoever texted him dahil sa tingin ko kung wala pang nagtext sa kanya baka saan na
kami napunta. Nakatingin pa rin siya sa akin. "Stick your tongue out again and I will make sure
that I'm gonna suck you tongue off to your mouth." I hurriedly closed my mouth. And then rolled
my eyes. He checked his phone at may pinindot doon.
"Your plane is ready. And one more thing, I'm not your fucking assistant, you asshole!" It was a
voice mail from Nikos. "You better pay me a million, or else find yourself a new best lawyer. But
FYFI I'm already the best." Napailing na lang ako sa sinabi ni Nikos, chuckling. Nakita kong may
pinindot si Kalev sa phone niya. Tinapat niya ito sa may bibig niya.
"Name your price, you dumb idiot." He said with his casual voice. Wala talagang magpapatalo
sa dalawang 'to.
He stared at me for a moment, slightly pouting his lips. "Baby..." he whispered. Napaka husky
ng boses niya plus medyo magulo pa ang buhok niya dahil kinikiliti niya ako kanina. Agad ko
namang pinag-cross ang dalawang kamay ko katapat ng dibdib ko. "Don't you even try,
Stanislaski." I muttered with a stern voice. "Aalis tayo, baka naman mawalan ka ng energy."
"I'm stronger than a buffalo, sweetheart. Alright, hindi pa naman natatapos ang araw." He said at
ngumiti ng nakakaloko. "What do you mean by that?" Takang tanong ko but he just shrugged his
shoulders and laughed lightly.
2 HOURS had passed and I'm now sitting comfortably in the plane. It's a private plane own by
none other than Kalev Stanislaski. Pero bago kami pumunta dito, I called Tori at pinakamusta
ang kapatid ko. Well, parang mas gusto pa nga ng kapatid ko na kasama sila Tori. And
thankfully, Tori is more than willing to take care of my younger brother. Masyado daw siyang
natutuwa sa kapatid ko, specially the way he talks and acts. Masyadong matured magisip at
alam na ng kapatid ko ang mga interest niya. For a very young age, he already know what he
wants and want he want to be. And of course, I'm the proud sister here. 
Napansin kong palapit na si Kalev sa inuupan ko as he walks in the aisle of the plane. Kami
lang ata ang sakay nito and of course some other flight attendants and the pilot. Umalis kanina
si Kalev para kausapin ang piloto—which happened to be one of his friends. Nakilala ko siya
kanina sa airport, his name is Severus Vetellì. He's ahmm...how should I put this—he's
something. Something mysterious and dangerous.
I smiled as he approached me. Pero sinuklian lang niya ako ng seryosong mukha.
"I really wanted to take you in more ways than one, baby." I stiffened with his
straightforwardness. "And I don't take no for an answer, love." Huminga ako ng malalim.
"Sino naman ang nagsabing hindi ang sagot ko?" He smirked and flashed a smile. "I'm sure
you'll gonna enjoy every second of it."
"Show me, then. Do me."

😍
***
Tenenenneneenenne~ enjoooyyyy. Thank you for supporting

[ 39 CHAPTERXXXVII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 37: The Flower

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
     "Uhmm..." I mumbled when Kalev started to undress me while kissing me roughly. Medyo
may kaliitan ang space sa comfort room yet kasya naman kaming dalawa. Ibinaba niya ang
cover ng toilet seat at doon naupo. Grabbing my waist, lifting me at pinaupo sa lap niya.
Thrusting rapidly when he started penetrating me. Stretching myself to his length. It was really
smoky hot in here. No foreplay. No exhibition done. We proceeded to the main course. "Ahh
s-shit baby. You're so fucking tight." I started moving on top of him habang ang dalawang kamay
ko ay nasa may balikat niya. He's kissing my neck, sucking and licking it leaving some mark.
When he suck, it's really hard. As of now, it's hickey number seven. When he left a mark, ilang
araw pa ang bibilangin mo para mawala yun or worse a week. The hickey is really red in color
with purple-ish on the side. That's how he suck. Another throaty moan escaped from me. Hindi
naman masakit yet babakat talaga sa balat ko ang marka niya.
"O–ohh. Yes! Ugh...h–hit it, Kalev." I pumped while meeting his thrust. Ramdam ko ang init ng
hininga niya na tumatama sa leeg ko, groaning a little and his breath were heavy like gasping
for more air. There's a sticky thing comes out from my vag***. I can feel Kalev's thing inside me,
penetrating my walls at habang patagal ng patagal mas lalong nagiging malalim ang pagalaw
niya. Like he's reaching for something inside me and all I could do is meet his every thrust. "My
c0ck is already releasing a small amount of cum, baby. Feel what you do to me, my love. You're
enticing. You're like a drug that increases my libido." Hirap niyang pahayag habang gumagalaw
pa rin sa loob ko.
"Baby, I want to tell you something." Napataas naman ang kilay ko. "What is it?" I asked. I tilted
my neck when he snugged his face to my neck. "Promise me you won't feel or be offended." His
hand runs to my butt and gave it a firm squeeze.
"I wanted to talk dirty." Sa sinabi niya, parang may kakaibang init akong naramdaman, maybe
because of excitement. And due to that, I accidentally clenched my inner thigh. "Ahh–shit shit
fuck how did you do that? Damn it, it feel so fucking good." Bigla niyang sabi that made me
confused. "Mas lalo kang sumisikip, baby. Clenching my d!ck inside you. Where did you learn
the muscle control?" I don't know if he's aware but he's already talking dirty. He goes deeper
and deeper, nakakagat ko na ang labi ko for me not to be noisy, dahil baka marinig ng mga flight
attendants ang ungol ko. Nakakahiya! And of course bumabaon na naman ang kuko ko sa balat
ni Kalev but I hear no complain. But curiosity always win.
"Muscle control?" I asked with confusion. He chuckled and place his hands to my waist.
"Funny. We're doing the actual sex right now and I'm about to educate you about sex." He
inhaled and slowly penetrating me.
"Muscle control is what you're doing right now. Clenching me with your inner thigh and that
makes you even tighter and increases the pleasure between us." Squeezing my two globes at
pababa ng pababa ang halik niya. Pinching my nipples between his two fingers while still
pumping inside me. He's really fan of multi tasking.
"Oh– Kalev!" I muttered as my lungs become dry and raspy. My legs were shaking. I'm about to
reach my climax.
"Kaleeevv!" I moaned his name when he plummeted harder than before, gripping my ass tightly
with his hand, I can feel it, both of us were near. We moaned our name as he exploded inside
me. What if I got pregnant? Some juices dripped to my thighs. "That was fucking great." Sabi ni
Kalev. At ako naman ay nakasandal na sa dibdib niya. Like a child. My energy is draining half.
Hindi pa nagtatapos doon, tumayo siya without removing his thing inside me. Isinandal naman
niya ako sa pader at hawak ang magkabilang legs ko to support me.
"I love you." Napangiti naman ako sa sinabi niya. He never failed to make me smile. He kissed
my forehead and my lips sweetly. Kissing me softly and tenderly. It's not french kiss nor rough
kiss with tongue it's passionate with love. I kissed him back with the same amount of intensity.
It's like our soul we're speaking to each other, understanding each other. I feel so connected to
him. "I love you too, my man." I said between our kisses. The kiss didn't last any longer, both of
us gasp for air, we stared at each other.
"DON'T you ever leave, sweetheart." Kalev said while putting a blanket on me. 1 hour later
nakahiha na kami sa mini bed. Pagkatapos naming maligo, at maglinis dumiretso na kami dito
para magpahinga. Good thing, dahil mukhang wala namang nakahalata sa ginawa namin. His
right arm is stretched habang ako naman ay nakahiga sa may dibdib niya, playing with mg
fingers.
I chuckled. "Saan naman ako pupunta?"
"What if you find out something that you didn't like? Or learn something bad about me? What're
you going to do?" Iniangat ko ang ulo ko at tumingin sa kanya.
"What are you talking about?" Bigla niyang iniwas ang tingin niya.
"Just nonsense what ifs. Don't make a big deal out of it." He pinches my nose. Enough for me to
frown. Battling with myself, I've decided to answer his nonsense what ifs.
"If ever that happens, for now I don't really know what I'll do. Wala pa kasi ako doon sa
sitwasyon na 'yun. Mahirap magsalita ng patapos. Maybe, I'm going to try myself to understand
the situation. Kailangan ko din maging open-minded and consider each sides. Para walang
conflict." I traced my fingers to the bridge of his nose to his kissable sexy lips. "Wala ka bang
sinasabi sa akin?" I asked out of the blue. Dinala niya ang kamay ko sa tapat ng labi niya and
kissed it. "Nothing. Just wondering." Maiksing pahayag niya. "And I love you so much Marsh. I
can't wait to change your surname to mine." It's my time to pinch him. "Isn't that indirect
proposal Mister Stanislaski?" I joked.
"Yes it is." At niyakap niya ako ng mahigpit.
"Do you have any regrets in your life?" It's rare for us to talk about life. The moment had come.
Why not grab the opportunity. Magandang paraan na din to para mas makilala namin ang
isa't-isa. Not just intimately in a relationship. Napaisip na rin ako sa sinabi niya.
"Yeah. When my parents died because of me." I said in a low voice. There's still a part of me na
sinisisi pa din ang sarili ko. Over time, siguro mapapatawad ko na din ang sarili ko. Not now, but
soon.
"Sweetheart." He soothed. "Blaming yourself will make the situation worse. Hindi mo naman
kailangan sisihin ang sarili mo. Maybe it's natural yet you need to rearrange your mind set.
You've done nothing wrong. It will only complicate things." I stared at him, trying to read him for
the nth time but failed eventually.
"I know. You already told me that." He ruffled my hair and laugh. "I won't get tired of reminding
you that you've done nothing wrong and you must live your life the way you want to live it, I'm
always here to support you in everything you do and I love you so much."
"How about you Kalev? May pinagsisisihan ka ba?" Napansin kong nagiisip siya bago niya ako
tingnan ulit.
"When I was young and reckless. I become a rebel and my mother got a heart attack."
"Can you tell me more about it?" Napansin ko din ang pagtutol sa mukha niya pero laking gulat
ko nang pinagpatuloy niya ang kanyang kwento.
"I have a thing with cars and at the age of twenty two I started collecting sports car because I'm
into drag racing. My mom saw me raced on television and the rest is history." Umupo ako mula
sa pagkahiga.
"How's your mother today? Is she alright?" I asked suddenly.
"Stronger than a bull." Bigla akong nakahinga ng maluwag. I don't know kahit hindi ko pa
nakikita ang magulang ni Kalev, I'm hoping they're good and healthy.
Hinila niya ang kamay ko at binalik sa pagkahiga. "Let me rest, sweetheart. I still have tons to
do once we're in our destination."
 •••
I WOKE up from my deep slumber. Feeling light and fresh bumangon ako sa pagkahiga just to
notice I'm in a cozy bedroom. Nakarating kami sa Rome, Italy kagabi. Didn't know that it's 18th
hours plane ride from the Philippines. Nang makarating naman kami sa Rome nagcheck in kami
sa hotel—Polytéleia Hotel for 3 days. And here I am now, getting up to the bed at dumiretso sa
kitchen para magprepare ng breakfast. Pagpunta ko sa kitchen nakita kong may maliit na sticky
note na nakadikit sa pinto ng ref. I get it and read it aloud.
"Been out already for business, didn't bother to wake you up because I know you're tired and
you need to rest. See you later, baby. I love you."
PS: Call the staff for your meal. Use the telephone near the television in the living room. I love
you so damn much.
—K.S.
Bigla akong nakaramdam ng gutom kaya naman pupunta na sana ako sa living room ng biglang
tumunog ang door bell. Sino naman kaya ang pupunta dito? Instead going to the living room
mas minabuti ko pang buksan na muna ang main door.
"Flowers for Miss Marsh Lahm." A man said with a thick English accent.
Isang magandang bouquet of red roses ang natanggap ko. Bigla akong napangiti ng maalala ko
si Kalev. So thoughtful. Talagang binigyan pa niya ako ng bulaklak kahit magkasama na kami at
magkikita naman kami mamaya.
"Thank you." I said and then received it. Sinara ko akg pinto at inamoy ang bulaklak na
natanggap ko. Hindi ko maiwasang kiligin sa ibinagay niya. Ibinaba ko muna sa isang table
yung bulaklak at kinuha ang phone ko and texted Kalev.
"Got the fresh flowers. Thank you and I love you." And hit the send button. Ibinaba ko ang
phone ko at kinuha ulit ang bulaklal para sana ilagay sa base as I arranged them pero may

❤️
napansin akong isang puti at maliit na card.
Hope you like it, Marsh. Hope to see you again.
-Austin
"Oh my..." Biglang pahayag ko as my attention focuses to my phone which keeps on ringing. I
checked my phone. Kalev is calling me. I answered the phone call quickly.
"What flower? As far as I remembered wala pa akong binibigay na bulaklak sayo." Halata sa
boses niya ang pagiging seryoso.
"Kal—" hindi ko pa natatapos banggitin ang pangalan niya ng magsimula na naman siyang
magsalita.
"Throw it, Marsh. Whoever gave that to you. Just throw it." Pagalit niyang sabi. Napapikit na
lang ako. Hindi ko pa siya nakikita, naiimagine ko na ang pagkakunot ng nuo niya at pagkalamig
ng boses niyaz
"It came from Aus—." I heard a loud noise from the background.
"—tin...And yes, I'm going to throw it." Mabilis na sabi ko dahil baka putulin na naman niya.
"Don't go anywhere. Pupunta na ako pabalik dyan." And the call ended. I tsked at binaba ang
phone ko. Hmp! Napakainit ng ulo. Kinuha ko ang mga bulaklak at nilagay sa garbage can.
Paano kaya nalaman ni Austin na nandito ako sa Rome?
And then realization hits me. Kasali nga pala siya sa competition, déjà vu, parang dati lang
we're a team but now...my thoughts hanged up in the air when phone my vibrated.
Maybe a text from my beloved jealous boyfriend. Nakasimangot akong tingnan ang phone ko.
The text came from unknown number.
"Hey, Marsh. It's me Austin. Did you like the flowers? I'm hoping."
I texted back.
"How did you got my personal number?"
"I hired someone to investigate you."
***

[ 40 CHAPTERXXXVIII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 38: The Miniature Fountain

Marsh Lahm's Point of View        Biglang uminit ang pisngi ko ng mabasa ko ang text ni Austin. I
didn't know what to react. He hired someone to investigate me? But why. I'm not a special
person in order to know some information about me. It's like invading my privacy! He already
invaded it, though.
Ibinaba ko na lang ang phone ko at hindi na lang nagreply sa text messages ni Austin. I don't
want to give him any hopes that I'm interested to any things he wants to say. I'm done with him,
long time ago.
Bumalik na lang ako sa kusina to have a healthy breakfast. I didn't have to call the staff,
ipagluluto ko na lang ang sarili ko. Pag bukas ko ng pinto ng refrigerator may nakita akong itlog
at gatas. And I started to make my own healthy breakfast.
10 minutes later halos paubos na ang kinakain kong bread at scrambled egg ng tumunog ang
doorbell. Napakunot na naman ang nuo ko. Who will visit me again this time? I wondered.
Tumayo ako sa pagkaupo leaving my breakfast on the table. Walk straight to the main door,
holding the doorknob, and then open it. And my jaw almost drop from what I saw.
May maraming uri ng bulaklak sa labas ng pinto, may nakalagay pa sa flowerpot. Different kinds
of flowers: roses, sunflower, daisy,  Calla Lily, carnations, cosmos and many more. But the man
holding a bouquet of different flowers caught my attention. It was Kalev Stanislaski, with his
famous grin, standing in front the hotel room.
"Bakit ang daming bulaklak dito? May balak ka bang gawing flower shop ang hotel room na
inuukupahan natin?" He scratched his nape. Para bang nahihiya sa gawa niya.
"Here accept this, my woman. Hindi ko kasi alam kung ano ang magugustuhan mo kaya binili ko
lahat." This man is incorrigible. Hindi ko napigilang mapangiti at sinalubong siya ng yakap. "Silly.
You don't need to do this to impress me." He pats my head and assists me to get inside the
room.
"Paano yung mga ibang bulaklak na naiwan sa labas?" Takang tanong ko habang hawak ang
bulaklak na ibinigay niya sa akin.
"Let the staff handle it." Sabi ni Kalev habang hinuhubad ang black coat niya. He's looking at the
side, particularly to the trash bin. Eyeing the red roses. Napapikit na lang ako. Shoot! Baka
maging tigre na naman to.
I heard him sighed and focused his attention to me. "So what's my lady doing?" I was shocked
by his action. Woah! He didn't get mad nor jealous. Maybe he already realized that he's the one
I love. That my heart belongs solely to him. And no man can sway it. Not even Austin—even
he's from my past.
"I'm almost done eating my breakfast. How about you? Bakit ang bilis mong umuwi? I thought
you have some business to deal with?" I managed to ask and help him to put his black tailored
coat on the rack.
I studied his face, he is frowning yet the composure is still present, lips twitching, eyes were
predatory.
"I'm just guarding what's mine." He said with an icy cold voice. "About my business I already
dismissed it." Siya na mismo ang lumapit sa akin and planted small kisses to my lips.
"I want to spend my time with you. Hurry up and finish your breakfast. We are going
somewhere." Biglang lumiwanang ang mukha ko. "Talaga?" I said out of excitement. "Now go.
I'm just going inside the and fix some documents. Take your time preparing, okay?" I smiled
sweetly then saluted. "Yes, sir!"
1 HOUR had passed and I'm sitting in the passenger seat with Kalev driving the car. Hindi ko
alam kung saan kami pupunta, yet I trust him. Hindi naman niya ako dadalhin sa ikakapahamak
naming dalawa. At tsaka mukhang mas alam niya ang ginagawa niya, he looks like he belongs
to this country. What I mean is, he looks like he is already accustomed to their culture at alam
niya ang mga puwedeng puntadahan dito sa Rome, Italy. Itinigil niya ang kotse sa tabi at
tinanggal ang seat belt.
"We are here. Let's go." I followed him. Lumabas ako sa kotse niya as he reached for my hands
and intertwined our hands with each other.
"Saan tayo pupunta?" I asked suddenly. The weather is actually nice and good. "You'll see." The
place is like a paradise at konteng lakad lang naming dalawa ng makita ko ang isang malaking
fountain with some sculpture ng isang tao.
"This is the Trevi Fountain." He explained. Thank goodness he's here. Ang hirap maging
ignorante sa ganitong bagay. "What's with the sculpture right in the middle." Medyo hinila niya
ako para mas mapalapit sa fountain. "That was the Greek sea god—Oceanus, surrounded with
Tritons, seahorses and other figures from ancient Greek god and goddesses." I was amazed
from the uniqueness of the sculpture.
"Isn't the God of the sea is Poseidon?" Takang tanong ko.
"Oceanus is the Titan God of the Sea." Napatango na lang ako. New knowledge for me.
"Woah. How did you know all of that." Still amazed, I stared at the huge fountain. "I've been
already here many times. I almost lived here in Italy for almost 2 years." Napatingin ako sa
kanya. "Really? I didn't know that." He put his arms to my shoulder at inakbayan ako as he pull
me closer to him. "Yes, when I supervised the overall business here. At bumalik lang ako sa
Pilipinas when I'm sure that our company can run long in the industry. Do you want to make a
wish? This fountain is famous for the coin throwing." I smiled with exaggeration. "I wanted to
but..." I fished my phone inside my pocket and get a one peso coin na may mukha pa ni Jose
Rizal. I pouted. I heard Kalev chuckled. "Ayos lang ba kahit pera ng Pilipinas ang gamitin ko?" I
mumbled. Chuckling—he get a coin from his pocket and handed to me. "Use this one euro.
Throw that euro with the right hand over the left shoulders and think about your wish." Tumingin
ako sa kanya right to his eyes.
"One euro for a wish?"
"Throwing a coin also ensures your return to Rome." I doubt that. Sa tingin ko hindi na ako
babalik dito. Para saan pa?
"Did you already tried it? I mean—wishing?" Umiwas siya ng tingin at namula na naman ang
tenga niya. He shrugged his shoulders bago sumagot.
"I did."
"Ano naman ang hiniling mo dati?" Curiosity kills a cat. I know, I know, but I wanted to know
what Kalev Stanislaski wants to have at dinaan pa niya sa hiling wherein he could have
anything with just a snap of his fingers.
"It's..." mas lalong akong naging determinadong makinig to the point na ilapit ko ang mukha ko
para mas marinig siya. "—it's for me to keep, baby. It's my wish at baka hindi matuloy kapag
sinabi ko siya." He flicked my forehead that made me pouted my lips. "Argh! You're so unfair.
Why can't you share it to me? Hmp. Hindi ko naman ipapagkalat ang wish mo eh." He chuckled
getting another coin from his pocket.
"I'm going to tell you soon if I'm ready to share my past with you."
"What? Ano ulit ang sinabi mo?" Hindi ko kasi maintindihan at marinig ng maayos ang sinabi
niya. "Never mind. Just throw it and let's whisper our desires. We must not dare to make
Oceanus wait." He joked around. This guy and his mysterious personality. Always made me
drown to him even closer.
Wala na akong magawa kaya tumalikod na lang ako at agad sinunod ang sinabi niya by
throwing the coin using the right hand over the left shoulder at tsaka humarap ako as I closes
my eyes and start thinking about my wish.
First: For us to be healthy and free from any sickness. Second: To acquire true happiness with
the one that I love. I know in order to acquire true happiness is with joy and sufferings since
hindi mo naman makukuha ang totoong kasiyahan kung hindi ka naghirap o hindi mo
pinaghirapan. And lastly, I hope we're strong enough to hold on to this relationship with ups and
downs, to live, to love, and to be free.
Wala namang masama sa paghihiling because life is a matter of waiting and hoping. Waiting for
the right moment to come and hoping para mas magpursigi kang makuha ang gusto mong
makamit in life.
I whispered my wishes to the air and hoping that it will be heard.
Pagbukas ko ng mata ng magtama ang paningin namin ni Kalev. I think he's been staring at me
for quite some time now. "What are your wishes?" He asked curiously, I smiled. "Yung wish ko
sabihin mo ang wish mo sa akin." I laughed ng makita ko ang paglukot ng mukha niya.
"You never failed to amused me, sweetheart."
"And you never failed to confused me, Monsieur Stanislaski." Pinigilan ko ang munting mga ngiti
na sumisilay sa aking labi ng maalala kong nagbasa ako ng dictionary tungkol sa salita na
ginagamit dito sa Rome, Italy.
"Let's go, Mademoiselle." I hold his hand at dumaan kami sa may gilid when a lady on her 40's
approached us. Not literally approached us but she said something in her language.
"quel beau couple." Bigla kaming napatigil ni Kalev, or maybe siya lang at napasunod na lang
ako dahil magkahawak kami ng kamay. I didn't understand her. Kalev smiled a bit. "Mercì,
Madam." Balik ni Kalev. Medyo kinurot ko ang braso niya and whispered. "Anong sinabi niya?"
Mahinang pahayag ko. Pero nginitian lang niya ako! Aba!
"Pourquoi ne pas essayer la fontaine miniature?" The old lady said and smiled. Her voice is
soothing and soft.
"Fontaine miniature, vous dites madame?" Balik na sabi ni Kalev.
The old lady looks at the side sa may maliit na fountain sa may gilid ng Trevi Fountain. Ano
kaya ang pinaguusapan nila?
"couplé qui boit ensemble restera fidèle pour toujours." The old lady said in retreating posture.
"Vraiment?" Okay, pakiramdam ko naging alien sila sa akin dahil kahit anong pilit kong intindihin
hindi ko talaga maintindihan.
"Oui."
"Mercì, madam."
"Au revoir, Monsieur, Mademoiselle."
"Au revoir, Madam." And the old lady left.
"What did she says?" It's my turn to ask. Still holding my hand, pumunta kami sa isa pang
fountain.
"The lady said we're a lovely couple." Masayang pahayag niya. I can feel my cheeks burning.
"Talaga?" Ngiting sambit ko. Hindi ko lang napasalamatan sa sinabi niya.
"Yes and I say thank you." That must be the word mercì. Patango tango lang ako. "Anong
ginagawa natin dito." May parang dalawang maliit na shell ang nakalagay sa may maliit na
butas as the clear water flows continuously.
"We need to drink the water from the miniature fountain, don't worry it's safe baby." Ohh. Ano
kaya ang naisipan ni Kalev para gawin to. Siguro nauuhaw lang siya? Dapat pala nagdala ako
ng water bottle para hindi na siya mauhaw ulit. I get one shell at sumalok ng tubig sa fountain.
At put it in my mouth to drink it.
"The old lady said that if we drink the water from the miniature fountain together we stay faithful
forever." Due of shock naibuga ko ang tubig na iniinom ko. May tubig na pumasok pa sa ilong
ko at ang iba naman ay naibuga ko ng tuloyan. "She told you that?" I asked tremendously. "Pfft.
You look funny, baby." And then he started laughing. Kinuha niya naman ang isang shell at
nagsimulang uminom ng tubig mula sa miniature fountain. At ako naman ay pinunasan ang labi
ko bago uminom ulit.
"Really? O kaya ginogood time mo lang ako? Hmm." I asked. Humarap naman siya sa akin na
may munting ngiti sa labi. "I never bluff, sweetheart. I never did."
I THOUGHT after we visited Trevi Fountain ay uuwi na ako but no—we walked in Ponte
Sant'Angelo hands intertwined while I'm eating cotton candy where we can see clearly the
Castel Sant'Angelo. For which Kalev said that the Ponte Sant'Angelo is famous for being a
kissing destination. We didn't kiss once or twice but more than you can imagine. 
Next is the St. Peter's Basilica. And many tourists spots in Rome. And right now we're at the
Hidden Cafés and Hotel Rooftop. Yes, it's literally placed at the rooftop. The chef cooked as
some Italian cuisine just for us, because well Kalev Stanislaski has power in his name and hold
many connections. His amount of Social Capital is enormous that I couldn't even imagine.
"You need to rest after you eat, baby. We've been visiting the Metro for almost 7 hours." Nagulat
naman ako sa sinabi niya while I'm eating the pasta.
"7 hours na agad ang nakalipas? Hindi ako aware sa oras." I said at tumingin sa orasan sa
phone ko. Siguro dahil naenjoy ko talaga ang araw na to dahil kasama ko na naman si Kalev sa
panibagong memory na puwedeng itreasure.
"Here. Open your mouth." Is he trying to feed me? I opened my mouth and tasted the meat of
the lobster as it touches my tongue. "It tastes good." Masigla akong kumain and we talk and talk
and talk.
WE'RE ALREADY in the car ng may matanggap akong tawag mula kay Tori. Kalev is already
driving way back to the hotel, I answered the phone.
"Tori, bakit ka napatawag?" I saw Kalev glances at me through my peripheral vision.
"Marco misses you so much, Marsh. Kaya tinawagan na kita. Wala na kasi kaming ginagawa
ngayon and we're watching Cartoon Network right now."
"Ate Marsh!" Masiglang bati ng kapatid ko. "Marco, how are you?" Balik kong sabi.
"Okay lang ako Ate. Tapos ko na din mga assignment ko tapos po pinayagan akong manood ni
Ate Tori ng cartoons. Sabi din ng teacher ko very good daw po ako dahil sumasagot ako sa
recitation." Napangiti naman ako sa sinabi ni Marco.
"Inaalagaan ka talaga ng Ate Tori mo ng mabuti dyan Marco. Wag mong kakalimutang
magpasalamat ah at wag laging maging pasaway. Be a good boy. Ano ba ang pinapanood mo
ngayon?" I said.
"Courage the Cowardly Dog po ate."
My brother and I talked to the phone for 15 minutes or so hanggang si Tori na ang sumagot sa
kabilang linya. "Marshhhhhh." Masiglang bati niya.
"How's Italy? Nageenjoy ka ba dyan?" Tanong niya. Pumasok naman sa isip ko mga nangyari
kaninang umaga kaya subconsciously napapangiti na lang ako. "I did. Italy is a nice country. Full
of cool sculptures and artifacts, holy places and such."
"Bakit kasi sa Italy pa gaganapin ang Competition bakit kasi nalipat pa dyan sa Italy. Kung sa
Pilipinas lang nakapunta pa sana kami sa event. Did you know someone asked the
management of the competition to move the location? It's just a rumor though. Hindi ako
masyadong nakinig sa source ko but I heard something about hear and the world. Well, bye
Marsh." As the call ended. Hear and the world. Napatulala na lang ako. What was that.
"Marsh? Baby you're spacing out again." There's a warm breath na tumama sa may earlobe ko.
"Sorry, I'm just thinking."
Humarap ako sa kanya. "We're here, you looked tired, why don't you go upstairs and rest?"
Tumango ako. "I will."
Nakapasok na kami sa hotel room na ginagamit namin, I didn't bother to change my clothes at
nahiga na lang sa kama, siguro dahil na rin sa pagod kaya nakatulog ako agad leaving all my
things in the bed, including my phone.
Kalev Stanislaski's Point Of View
I took a quick shower and changed in to comfortable clothes as I walk barefoot back in the
bedroom. I watched my girlfriend sleep soundly on the bed sleeping like a fetus in woman's
womb. She looks so cute. I mused.
Lumapit ako sa kanya para ayusin ang pagkalagay ng comforter sa katawan niya but what
caught my attention is her phone keeps on vibrating. Someone is calling her. From unknown
number. Having 10 missed call, I get her phone and clicked the answer button. I sighed deeply
and made no sound when I heard the caller's voice.
"Marsh! Good thing you picked up the phone. I've been calling you."
"Okay, maybe you're mad at me because I hired someone to investigate you. I'm sorry, alright?
Gusto ko lang naman malaman kung ano ang phone number mo for me to be able to contact
you. I really wanted to take you back.
I heard you're already in Rome, Italy. Bakit hindi na lang tayo magkita? Talk while having a
dinner. Let's talk about being together again, shall we? I really miss you so much." I remained
stoic and quiet.
"Marsh? Are you there? Bakit hindi ka nagsasalita. Babe?"
"My wife is sound asleep. And don't you even dare to call my wife again or even touch her, I
know you're aware what will happen. Don't provoke me." I said.
"Kalev Stanislaski?" His voice was like struck by a thunder bolt.
I ended the phone call and stared at my Marsh once again. "Sa akin ka lang Marsh, hindi kita
hahayaang mapunta sa iba. I've been waiting for a right moment to come all I have to do is to
seize it. Nakaabot na ako ng ganito kalayo, no one can ever stop me."
***
Votes and Comments are highly appreciated by the Author. Short POV ni Kalev, don't worry sa
ibang mga chapters mas mahaba pa ang magagawa ko. Enjoy reading.

[ 41 CHAPTERXXXIX ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 39: Him

Kalev Stanislaski's Point of View
I remained calm and rational. I can't let this motherfucker ruined my mood, and I don't want
to scare my little angel when I'm angry. I tried to restrain myself while looking at her phone.
"He had had investigated her. Míerda." I cursed. My attention focuses to my lovely girlfriend who
is sleeping unsoundly in our bed.
Is there any possibility that I might lose her?
My stomach started to churn. Naalala ko na naman ang usapan namin ni Nikos kaninang
umaga. He's here in Rome, Italy. Doing something for me. At si Nikos ang pinuntahan ko
kanina. I really went outside early leaving Marsh sleeping in the bed this morning. I can't help
myself but to stare with her and tuck some strands of her hair at the back of her ear. "My love.
I'm sorry." I whispered.
"Do you think you can keep a secret for too long? What the fuck man. Man up, will you?!" I
stared blankly at Nikos. I'll do everything for her. Kahit siya na ang unahin ko kesa sa sarili ko.
Pagdating sa kanya I'm selfless.
"Stop lying to her. Maawa ka naman sa tao, Kalev. She's been so passionate and lovely at the
same time. She's sincere and once a broken girl." My blood started to boiled. My hand clenched
into fist.
"Do you think I'm not aware of this Nikos? And I'm not lying to her. How could I lie if she's my
everything and the woman I want to spend my entire life with." I said calmly. I'm not the type of
guy who resolves things with fist. I'm afraid I'll go overboard. Hanggang sa makakaya ko, I want
to resolve everything logically. Pero pagdating kay Marsh, I become impulsive. Lalo na nang
mabastos siya sa sarili kong bar. I can't help but to strangle the guy to death. Sa ginawa ni
Haneah kay Marsh and I almost choke her using my own hands. But I refrained myself because
Marsh might be afraid if she's aware to what I'm capable of doing.
"Keeping a secret is a form of lying. The more you keep a secret the more pretentious you
become." I pounded my fist on the table. Hindi ako nagsalita hence, I think what to do next. "I
don't want to hurt her."
"Do you think you're not hurting her in the process? Hindi mo ba nakikita o napapansin man na
lang na baka naghihintay lang siya na sabihin mo sa kanya ang gumugulo sayo? Kung hindi
lang kita kilala baka isipin kong natatakot ka. You're afraid of her reaction, na maiwan ng taong
mahal mo, and especially you are afraid of emotion. Overflowing emotions once ruined your life
that's why you limit yourself with everything. Hindi ka ba napapagod?" I stopped thinking what to
do next as Nikos looks at me.
"Tell me Kalev. Saan ka ba nakatira ngayon? In the past, present, or in the future? Hah! Hindi
mo na pala kailangan sumagot dahil alam ko na. Your body is in the present yet your soul is
stuck in the past that means you don't have a future. Seriously, your like a bird inside a cage,
wings are clipped."
"This is the price I access to paid for." Yumuko ako. I need to control myself. I can't let my
emotion win this time. Nikos, don't provoke me.
"You keep resolving everything using your brain, your intelligence, your logic but emotions are
important too. At dahil lagi mong ginagamit 'to." Sabi niya at tinuro ang sintindo niya. "You forgot
to feel." And he pointed his chest where the heart lies.
"What do you know?" I glared at him. There's something creeping inside me. I started to got
irritated.
"I'm telling you this because I'm a concern citizen not a lawyer but your cousin. Lahat ng
sinimulan mo matatapos na lang bigla and it will be your destruction. Ikaw din ang nagdadala ng
chaos sa buhay mo. Once and for all bakit hindi mo lang ito tapusin? Sa mga araw na
dumadating mas lalo lang ito lumala. And what will you get in return? Sadness, loneliness, and
a broken heart. Kung natatakot ka sa magiging reaksiyon ni Marsh and her judgement, if she
decides to leave you even you explain to her everything, then the love she feels isn't as strong
as you imagine..."
"...or do you really love her? Or just drown to the idea that you're in love?" I avoided the topic.
There's a right time discussing that.
"I called you to discuss important things Nikos. I don't want to hear your side about this." I said
as I remained calm as I can muster. There's a growing lump in my throat as I started to get
uncomfortable to my sit. Hindi na ako magtataka kung pagdating mamaya, I'll go ballistic.
Imbis na makinig si Nikos sa akin, sinarhan niya ang file na dala niya at tumayo sa pagkaupo.
"Ano pa ba ang mas importante dito, Kalev? Don't tell me you're gonna run away again and
pretend that everything is alright. All you need to do is ask for forgiveness!"
"It's not that easy!" I can't fucking calm down now.
"Nothing is easy! Sa mundong ating ginagalawan walang madali. Kailangan mong paghirapan
ang lahat. Even choosing and deciding is hard. Don't tell me you're really scared, Kalev?" My
face remained stoic.
"What if I am? Who wouldn't be?" Nagpakawala ng malalim na buntong si Nikos.
"Tell her, Kalev. At tsaka ka na magisip ng kung anong gagawin mo kapag nasabi mo na lahat
ng gusto mong sabihin. Trust me, the burden will go away." Bumalik ako sa pagkaupo. "I called
you to do something, Nikos. And what you're doing right now is not what I needed. Marsh is in
danger. Find someone who wants to inflict pain to her." Nakita ko ang pagkagulat sa mukha niya
but I disregarded it right away. Yes, she's in danger. Hindi niya ito napapansin but I do.
"How about Haneah? Siya lang ang may motibo."
"I don't know. Just continue what you're doing and we're cool." We talk until I received a text
message from my girl—Marsh. Agad akong umalis without formally saying goodbye to my
cousin. My blood started to boil from anger. I'll do everything to keep Marsh. Everything with any
means. Legal or not. I don't fucking care anymore. Bought bunches of flower and went to the
hotel right away.
I was back in reverie when I heard her snoring a little. I chuckled. She's so cute. Mukhang
napagod talaga ang prinsesa ko sa date namin kanina. Umupo ako sa kama habang
hinahawakan ng dahan dahan ang kamay niya.
"Yes, Nikos. I really love her. Not because I'm drown to the idea of being in love but because I
really feel strong emotions inside me." I whispered subconsciously when I remembered our
topic earlier. I didn't discussed it to him and simply avoided the topic. My main reason is: Kung
gusto kong sabihin na mahal na mahal ko ang babaeng nasa harapan ko, gusto kong siya
mismo ang makarinig and not Nikos. He's out of the picture. At first, I didn't know I'm capable of
loving a woman better than myself.
Hinalikan ko ng dahan dahan ang noo niya bago lumabas ng kwarto and headed to the kitchen.
Getting a glass as I pour a brandy on it. I've decided to drink while thinking.
Drinking from the glass, I walked to the side where the piano is located. There's really a reason
why I decided to take this hotel room. Having a nice view of the City and of course the piano.
Sat down on the bench, putting the glass down and started playing—Moonlight Sonata, the First
Movement. And let myself drown to the music.
Pounding the keys so hard and put all my frustrations to the music piece.
How long can a man could live with a lie?
I, too, don't know.
***
Vote and Comment are highly appreciated by the author.

[ 42 CHAPTERXL ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 40: Two souls in one music

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View      Nagising ako mula ng marinig kong may tumutugtog ng piano.
Hindi ko akalain na nakaidlip ako mula sa pagod. Ikaw ba namang halos puntahan na ang lahat
ng tourist destinations sa bansang ito, sino ba naman ang hindi mapapagod. Napangiti na lang
ako ng bumalik na naman sa isipan ko mga pinuntahan namin ni Kalev. Niyakap ko ng mahigpit
ang unan at parang teenager na kinikilig. Maybe if you're in love ganito talaga. Sa simpleng
bagay lang mapapangiti ka na agad. Ang gaan pa sa pakiramdam yung tipong nagbabago ang
mga pananaw mo sa buhay. Life that is more optimistic and worth living.
    Bumangon ako at tinaas ang buhok ko bago lumabas ng bedroom. Nang lumabas ako mas
lalong lumakas ang tunog na nagmumula sa piano. And there I saw Kalev sitting on the bench
while playing Moonlight Sonata. I hummed at sumandal sa may pader habang pinagmamasdan
siyang tumugtog. I heard him play again. Taking deep breaths, naglakad ako palapit sa kanya
humming the Moonlight Sonata. It's like someone is putting blanket over my shoulders. I
remember someone asking me why I'm into classical music. And then I remembered what I
answered. "This type of music helps you think and could find the answer within the music you
play And attracts everyone to listen for more. To seek for more. It isn't easy. It's difficult."
While examining him play, I listen closely. Doon ko lang napansin na masyadong madiin ang
pagkapress siya sa bawat keys. He's lost in his own music. And I want to ask, why? Is he
thinking? Is he also looking for answers? Why didn't I notice it earlier? The note is changing. It
keeps on changing. Is this really the tune of Moonlight Sonata? I beg to disagree. All I know is
it's calm and soft. This isn't how he normally plays. He plays for perfection. But now... he looks
different, he sounds different. He plays with unusual emotion and character.
I walked towards him but he didn't payed me so much attention. Maybe hindi niya ramdam na
gising na ako at palapit sa kanya. He's so focused playing para bang he's the only one in the
room who exists and of course the piano.
I sat besides him. And I'm right, nung makalapit ako sakanya, that time he acknowledged my
presence but he didn't stop playing. He pounded the keys like he owns it. In the first place, he
owns everything. Naupo lang ako sa tabi niya until he stopped playing. He's sweating. Maybe
he's really into the music.
"You okay?" Tanong ko ng matapos siyang tumugtog.
Sumandal siya sa balikat ko. Resting his head to my shoulders and I'm willing to lend it to him. I
thought he won't speak a word fortunately, he did.
"I'm lost." He said almost a whisper. Two words yet can break a person. I tapped his back. I
don't know what is the problem but I guess it's pretty tough. "I'm here." I said. Kahit wala siyang
sabihin I can sense na may problema siya. I didn't want to be nosy. I'm going to wait 'till he let
everything out. Man is egoistic. Isa yan sa napapansin ko. Few don't want to share what's
bothering them. Sinasarili ang problema. They thought they can make it through their own. But
no man is an island.
I want to make him feel that he's not alone in the battle. That I'm here with him.
I could feel his shoulders rise and fall slowly with his breath. This is actually the first time he
open something personal. "I wanted to say something." Napatingin ako sa kanya. "What is it?"
He looked at me with his eyes. Is he resisting? I don't know. I'm not good at reading
expressions. He leaned down kissing my forehead, to my nose and finally to my lips. "I love you,
my woman." I smiled. Oh God. I hope everything is okay and go smoothly and sailing.
•••
IT'S MY second day here in Rome, Italy. At nandito kami ni Kalev sa restaurant ng hotel to have
our breakfast. We didn't talk about what happened yesterday. But I'm cool with it. I can't let my
curiosity win this time. Curiosity kills a cat and patience is a virtue. I just needed to wait for more
time.
"So any plans for today?" Tanong ni Kalev while sipping his coffee. Napaisip ako, ano nga ba
ang magandang gawin ngayon para masulit ko naman ang pagpunta dito?
"I don't have any idea. Baka magstay na lang ako sa loob ng hotel room. I'm nervous. Bukas na
ang comptetion and I think I lack in everything. Sa pagpapractice and all." Oo nga pala, bukas
na mangyayari ang pinakahihintay na Recital Competition. Goodness. Hindi talaga mawala ang
kaba na nararamdaman ko ngayon. For almost 7 years na hindi ako nakatugtog ano na lang
kaya ang magiging performance ko? I'm not a soloist, I'm his accompanist. I'm with Kalev. I don't
want to fail him o ipahiya sa maraming tao thinking that his partner is a disappointment.
I can feel Kalev's hand on mine. "Stop overreacting, baby. For sure you'll do well." Sumimangot
ako. "Alam kong magaling ka sa lahat ng ginagawa mo pero ayaw naman kita mapahiya kung
ang accompanist mo isang kagaya ko lang." he pinches my hand slightly.
"Silly. Kung nakikita mo lang ang sarili mo gamit ang mga mata ko, you will think that you're the
best that I've got. Because you are, Marsh. You are. Stop overthinking, believe in yourself. You
can do it." This man can really boosts my confidence and my energy. Dapat talaga lagi ko
siyang dala wherever I go. He's my source of strength. "I'll do better, I promise." For myself and
for you.
"Marsh!" Naagaw ang atensiyon naming dalawa ni Kalev sa lalaking tumawag ng pangalan ko.
"Austin." I said. Napatingin ako kay Kalev na may madilim ang mukha. Parang may dark clouds
sa taas ng ulo niya. With lightning and thunder.
"We are in the same hotel? Cool. Puwedeng sumabay sainyo magbreakfast? The more the
merrier." He flashed his infamous smile. Hindi ko pa rin siya nakakausap tungkol sa
pagimbestiga niya sa akin. That still makes me mad. I'm not even a celebrity for Pete's sake. I'm
just a normal girl, a commoner. There's nothing special about me. So why bother? Hindi naman
dahil mayaman sila kailangan na nilang magih abusive to the power they hold. It isn't right.
"It's a no. Go get yourself a new table." Malalim na pahayag ni Kalev. Lumipat naman ang tingin
ni Austin mula sa akin papunta kay Kalev.
"Be careful with your words Stanislaski." He said with full of meaning. They both stared with
each other. "If I didn't choose what words to speak baka may masabi ako na hindi mo
magustuhan and lost someone dearly. You don't want that, do you?" I can feel the rage and fire
between the two. Before they could harm each other bigla akong napatayo. "Austin, I think we
need to talk." From smirking he flashes a boyish grin ng tumingin siya sa akin. He can swift
emotion within a matter of seconds.
"Marsh."
I can sense the protests within Kalev's voice. I didn't want to do it but I guess I need to stop this
once and for all. "Mabilis lang to, Kalev. Babalik ako agad." Hindi ko na hinintay ang sasabihin ni
Kalev dahil sigurado akong hindi siya papayag. Kaya agad kong hinila ang braso ni Austin
palabas ng restaurant.
"Marsh dahan-dahan baka madapa ka." Austin said with a chuckle. Tumigil kami sa labas ng
restaurant. A meter away from the entrance door.
Humarap ako sakanya habang nakakunot ang noo.
"Ano ba ang ginagawa mo, Austin? Why are you doing this? You had me investigated? Are you
nuts!? You're invading my privacy!" Pasigaw na sabi ko. Buti na lang kahit magsigawan kami
dito walang makakaintindi unless you're a Filipino. This is a foreign land that speaks different
language.
"Can't you see, Marsh? I'm still into you! Bakit ko nga ba to ginagawa? Para sayo, para
mapansin mo ulit ako." Pahayag niya. I inhale and then exhale. "I already have a boyfriend,
Austin. And I love him so much. Tigilan mo na ang kalokohan na 'to. Our story was already done
years ago. It ended without a happy ending. Tapos na matagal na. I'm too young back then who
couldn't handle so much pain and emotion that's why I left you Austin. Back then nawalan ako
ng magulang at ako na lang pagasa ng kapatid ko. I can't afford to be someone else's
baggage." I reasoned out. Gusto ko ng matapos ang issue naming dalawa. Kaya siguro
nagkaganito dahil walang proper closure.
"But I'm willing to help you, Marsh. Hindi ako pumayag na makipaghiwalay ka sa akin dati. Nang
makita kita muli inisip ko na kahit may asawa ka na o mahal na iba mapapasakin ka pa din. Na
mababawi pa rin kita because I really love you." He tried to reach me.
Umiling ako. "Free yourself Austin. Hindi ako ang babae na para sayo. I love Kalev with all my
life. Please stop." I can see the pain registers to his face pero nagawa pa niyang ngumiti.
"Kalev Stanislaski, huh? Do you really know that man, Marsh? Do you have any idea who he is?
What he'd done? Or don't you have any slightest idea about him?" He said mockingly. I didn't
answer. "Maybe you love him because you know he's filthy rich, a billionaire at aangat ang
buhay mo ng dahil sakanya. Baka nakakalimutan mong mayaman rin ako katulad niya Marsh. I
can make you my Queen. I can give you a lot of fortune. Magiging mayaman ka rin naman kung
sakin ka mapupunta. Wala namang pinagkaiba yun kung ako ang pipiliin mo." Napailing na lang
ako sa sinabi niya.
I chuckled lightly, mocking him at sinalubong ang tingin niya. This proves that everything and
everyone can change over time. "I love him because I love him. I don't know why I'm with him
and I don't care. Just remember the word respect nawala yata sa vocabulary mo. Excuse me." I
said.
It's not necessary to explain myself. Nasanay na siguro ako na hindi eexplain ang sarili ko sa
ibang tao. Basta alam ko sa sarili ko ang gusto kong paniwalaan. And that's the most important
part. At isa na yun na mahal na mahal ko si Kalev. Not because of his property and form of
ownership but because this is how I feel about him. You don't need to explain yourself to
everyone nor please them. If they think badly of you that's their problem. And the best revenge
to do is being happy. Ipakita mo lang na maging masaya ka.
Pumasok ako sa restaurant and saw Kalev sitting calmly on the chair. His hand is clenched into
fist.
"Did it went well? Did he hurt you? Are you alright? Tell me, baby. I can be a murderer anytime."
I smiled a little bago umupo kaharap niya.
"I don't know if it went well. Pero sana tumigil na siya sa ginagawa niya. I explained that I really
love you. He belonged from the past. And I don't want my past to ruin my future." I sighed.
Hinawakan niya ang kamay ko at tsaka tumayo. He sighed.
"Come with me."
"Where?"
"Trust me."
•••
  SUMAMA ako kay Kalev without any idea kung saan kami pupunta. He drive the car in a
normal speed and of course I'm sitting comfortably in the passenger sit.
"Can I turn the radio on?"
"Go on, love."
I click the power on as  Ed Sheeran's Shape of you blasted on the radio. "I like this song, turn it
up." Kalev said and turned up the volume himself "Seriously, Kalev? Listening to that kind of
song?" He glances at me bago bumaling ang tingin niya sa harap.
"Why not?" Napailing na lang ako habang tumitingin sa labas. Pinagmamasdan ang mga
buildings na nadadaanan namin.
"I'm in love with your body. Last night you were in my room." I pinches his shoulders ng
sumabay siya sa kanta looking at me intensely. "Ang halay mo, hmp." I said bago inext ang
music. Sweet by Cigarettes After Sex blasted on the radio. Sumabay ako sa pagkanta as I stick
my tongue out. "Don't do that." He frowned. "Do what?"
"Sticking your tongue out like that. You look so damn sexy and cute. Baka hindi ko na naman
mapigilan ang sarili ko." Makahulugang pahayag niya. Agad ko namang tinikom ang bibig ko. 
Hmp! I rolled my eyes on him at sumabay sa kanta.
It's so sweetNow that you love me Though you don't need to say it to each other, sweetNow that
I love you Been running my fingers through your hair It's so sweet
I sang at bigla akong pumiyok sa dulo. Nagkatinginan kami ni Kalev and later on laugh with
each other.
The car ride was full of laughter and noise coming from the radio until we reached our
destination—so I thought dahil tumigil ang sasakyan katapat ng isang malaking—isn't this an old
church?  Halos anim na oras din kami sa loob ng sasakyan. Nasaan na ba kami?
"Let's get inside." Hinawakan ni Kalev ang kamay ko at ginaya papasok sa loob.
"Anong ginagawa natin dito?" I asked and was amazed from the structure hanggang sa
makapasok kami sa loob. There were paintings at the ceiling. I know this painting! Nakita ko na
to from the textbook. The inside is spacious and looks elegant.
"Welcome to Sistine Chapel, baby. And that paintings retell the history of man painted by
Michelangelo." Woah! The chapel decoration is simply jaw dropping.
"Pero ano ang ginagawa natin dito?" I asked habang magkahawak kamay kaming naglalakad
sa isle.
"We're going to get married." Bigla akong napatigil sa paglalakad. Eyes wide open.
"Say what?" Biglang bumilis ang tibog ng puso ko.
"You must be kidding me ha-ha." I faked a cough. But Kalev don't know how to kid.
"Do you trust me?" Seryosong pahayag niya.
"Of course I do but it's marriage we're talking about." I hesitated.
"Then hold my hand, darling. Shall we?" I breath heavily bago simulang maglakad katabi siya.
There's a few people around. Pero walang pari na naghihintay sa dulo. A marriage between just
the two of us. I keep on smiling. How romantic! This guy really never failed to make my heart
flutter.
Hanggang sa marating na namin ang dulo. I faced him and he do the same. Touching both of
my hand.
"I, Kalev Stanislaski, take thee Marsh Lahm to be my wife, to have and to hold, from this day
forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to
cherish, nothing will do us apart—I'll make sure of it. According to God's holy ordinance; and
there to I pledge thee my faith." He smiled encouraging me to speak. "Your turn baby and make
me the happiest man alive."
"I, Marsh Lahm, accept Kalev Stanislaski to be my loving husband, to have, to hold, from this
day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to
cherish and yes, nothing will do us apart. Standing in front of Monsieur Kalev Stanislaski,
pledging my thee faith. I'm going to love you until to my second life." I smiled. We could have life
after death. Chuckling, I turn to him.
"You may now kiss the bride." He said as his lips ended up to mine. We're kissing slowly and
passionately. Savoring the moment. Saksi ang mga paintings ni Michelangelo sa aming dalawa.
"I promise to marry you properly Marsh. With ring and all. In church with our family. With your
wedding gown." I laughed. "But I'm already satisfied with this." He kissed my forehead. "I love
you, mademoiselle."
And now I realized you don't need an expensive gown, jewelries, or anything to be happy and
contented. Hindi ko akalain na sa simpleng ganito  sasaya na ako ng lubusan. I'm not aware
that I am capable of feeling so much happiness with Kalev Stanislaski. I'm hoping that it wouldn't
last. But that just what I thought.
***
Sorry ngayon lang ulittttt. Busy-busyhan po ako this past few days. Thank you sa mga

❤️ 😘
comments niyo every chap. Sa tuwing nababasa ko napapangiti na lang ako unconsciously.

🤔
Thank you for making my day and night minna-san Sana nagustuhan niyo Saan kaya ako
makakakita ng isang Kalev Stanislaski

[ 43 CHAPTERXLI ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 41: Tchaikovsky's Music

Marsh Lahm's Point of View      The day had come. I couldn't keep my composure. I fidgeted
with my fingers, and second seemed like eternity. I scanned the whole area trying to look around
the venue.
Maraming tao na naka formal attire, business suit. Women walks with sophistication and
flaunting their expensive jewelries, napaka ganda ng suot nilang dresses, some were socializing
with everyone. May mga designate seats for all people, mga kilalang tao, actor and actresses,
politicians, bachelors who rocks the business and fashion industries, and many more.
This past few minutes I saw Austin, he tried to approach me pero umiwas ako agad. I know he
felt sorry, but times soothes everything. The stage is full of lights and all. May nakalagay ng
grand piano sa gitna and in any minute uupo ako sa bench and isa sa taong tutugtog. Hindi ko
talaga mapigilan na  kabahan dahil napakalaking event nito. Magkano kaya ang buong budget
ng production para dito? Maybe a million? Or more than that. Maybe. Such a luxury. May mga
camera din in every angle and I'm sure pinapalabas ito sa buong mundo. I'm not kidding. This is
only my dream, to play with the world, and the world hear me play. Pero ngayon matutupad na,
abot kamay ko na.
Wait a minute, bigla kong naalala ang convo namin ni Tori.
"Did you know someone asked the management of the competition to move the location? It's
just a rumor though. Hindi ako masyadong nakinig sa source ko but I heard something about
hear and the world"
Hear and the world, hindi kaya? Bigla akong napatingin sa gilid ko kung saan nakaupo si Kalev.
Wearing an expensive tailored suit, I mean personalized expensive tailored suit na gawa ng
isang famous fashion designer. He's handsome and looks like a prince lalo na ang kulay na suot
niya is white with the touch of gold. Ibang-iba ang kulay na suot niya ngayon dahil laging black
na tuxedo ang sinusuot niya lalo na kapag may business transaction but now it's white and gold.
Mapapanganga ka na lang kapag nakita mo siya, everyone paid him so much attention but I
paid him so much adoration. His messy hair is now perfecly trimmed and brushed up. He's
perfect.
Impossible. Napailing na lang ako ng bumalik sa isipan ko ang salitang hear at world. Am I
overthinking? Yes, yes I am. I shrugged the thoughts away, imposible na si Kalev ang
nagpamove ng location. Bakit ba ako nagiisip ng kung ano-ano. At bakit iniisip ko na related sa
akin 'yun? Hmp! Dapat isipin ko muna ang mas importanteng bagay. Wala kami sa backstage,
we're in the front. Actually, sa pinaka unahan mayroong ten round table at doon nakaupo ang
mga contestants. At sa likod naman ng round table ay mga audiences. Nakikita ko ang mga
kasali sa competition, from different country, they look confident and they have this aura saying
they'll win no matter what.
"Nervous?" Kalev holds my hand and brushes his thumb to my palm. Tumango ako.
"Who wouldn't be? This place is fantastic! People around the globe will see our performance,
kinakabahan talaga ako." My stomach churned and my breathing stops. Buti na lang konte lang
ang kinain ko kanina kung hindi baka kanina pa ako nasuka dito sa inuupuan ko.
"I'm with you, baby." How could he be so calm in times like this? Sana lahat kayang kumalma.
"By the way, you looks so pretty in your dress." He said with a wink. Napatingin tuloy ako sa
dress na suot ko. The color of my dress is matched with him na umabot hanggang tuhod ko.
Yes, I agree. Maganda ang pagkagawa sa suot ko ngayon.
"Good evening ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, welcome to the Recital Competition 2018."
The lights focuses to a middle-age American guy on the center of the stage. I think it's now
starting. I tried to calm my mind and my heart but failed eventually. Siguro mawawala lang ang
kaba na nararamdaman ko kapag hinalikan ako ni Kalev. Oh my! I pinched myself, ano ba tong
iniisip ko! Mawawala ang kaba ko once na matapos na kami mag perform.
Everyone claps their hands, no shouting, no cheering, just clapping. So formal. I drank a glass
of water na nakalagay sa taas ng table.
"I am your host for the night, Holden Fredriekson." Another clap from the crowd. "Now, now
folks, to make the competition interesting..." the crowd felt into silent, halos hindi na ako
makahinga mahintay lang ang sasabihin ng host, "...I just want to remind you that we want to
hear something new, the judges wants to hear and see perfection, team work, and lastly
determination. Anyway, I'm going to reveal what will the contestants have to do."
"There's a bowl on the center of your table, can you see it? Yes, yes of course you do. Forget
what you've practiced and what you've prepared this past few months and weeks, you'll be
playing a different music this time, isn't it exciting?" Another clap from the audience. Anticipating
to what will happen. I gasped at napatingin kay Kalev. He taps my head telling me to calm down.
Nakita ko ang bowl na sinasabi ng host sa unahan, "From the bowl you're going to draw one
piece of a paper inside and that will decide what music piece you'll gonna play."
"Do the honors, wife." Sabi ni Kalev at inabot sa akin ang bowl. I take a deep breath bago
bumunot ng isang papel. Nang makabunot na ako hindi ko kaagad ito sinimulan rather I passed
the bowl to the other contender.
"Paano na ang prinactice natin, Kalev?" Mahinang tanong ko kay Kalev. Paano na lang ang
prinactice namin ni Kalev. It was Symphony No. 5 in C minor. A symphony by Ludwig van
Beethoven. "That paper will say the new classical music we'll perform in any minute. Tumingin
naman ako sa papel na hawak ko.
"The competition starts now. Number 1 contender, you may now go to the stage." Hindi ko na
inintidi kung ano akg nangyayari sa paligid ko.
"Let's open it now. Sa tingin ko andito din nakalagay kung pang-ilan tayo magpeperform." I
nodded my head and start unfolding the paper.
" Five (5) : Swan Lake by Tchaikovsky ." Basa ko sa nakalagay sa papel. Swan Lake... Swan
Lake... pinaulit- ulit ko sa isip ko.
"Don't worry baby. There's a music sheet provided for us." The first contender starts playing.
Pero ang atensiyon ko ay wala sa mga tumutogtog kundi sa kamay kong nagtatap sa table. I'm
tapping the table like it was a piano keys. Inaalala kung ano ang mga notes ng music piece na
Swan Lake. I remembered playing it once! Pero isang beses lang! Bigla akong napatigil ng
hawakan ng Kalev ang kamay ko while tapping the table lightly,
"Calm down, wife. You need to calm down. Just remember, free your soul while playing. Don't
let your mind control you rather control your mind. When you do that you can control the music
and trust me it will come out good than you imagine. You can do this. We can do this. I'm here,
I'll guide you. When I bow the string, you start playing. I'll take the lead, and later on we will lead
each other. Copy?" Kalev said smoothly, tumango ako ng dahan-dahan. Okay, I'll trust myself,
trust my skills, and I'll trust Kalev.
"Playing well means not to be worried about mistakes. Fear in music will make you stiff and
you'll underperform. Always remember why you love playing piano and how piano makes you
feel."
The brain is the center of everything and I can say it's really powerful. It controls you. Pero sa
tingin ko kailanga ko munang dumepende kay Kalev. He was there. Holding my hand. 
I wonder if Kalev know the song. I bet, alam niya. This competition will really be the death of me.
I don't know kung ilang minuto na ako nakaupo habang pinapanood ang mga contestants na
tumutugtog.
"And now let's welcome contestants number five. Please go to the stage." Kalev stood up from
his chair, confidently. Hinawakan niya ang kamay ko as he guide me hanggang maka akyat
kami sa stage. People recognized him, I can tell. Most people were surprised that he's here. I
can now see the crowd in front of me. The spotlight, their stares I can feel it. "We can do this."
Tumango ako as we part ways. Dumiretso ako sa grand piano while Kalev steps forward.
Umupo ako sa bench at nilipat ang music sheet na susundan ko na nakalagay sa taas ng piano.
Swan Lake by Tchaikovsky. My heart beats loudly.
"I love you." He mouthed. "I love you too." I mouthed back but I didn't know if he saw it. After a
matter of seconds, I heard the sound of the bow trembling on the string. That's the cue. I must
start now.
My hand is trembling, the moment I positioned it to the keys. Focus. Focus. Focus. Focus. I
keep chanting. I need to focus! Don't let your mind control you rather control your mind. Taking
deep breaths I started pressing the keys softly.
Nakita ko ang paglingon ni Kalev sa akin and then he smiled. He continued bowing the string in
a perfect melody, his right arm is dragging and pushing the bow back and forth feels like the ebb
and  flow of life itself. Sucking the sound of the instrument. Everything comes so natural. My
fingers is no longer trembling, I followed his tune while looking at the sheets and my fingers
tapping the keys. We're like talking, the notes are bursting, para kang nagsasagutan ng isang
classic music. It's like our soul is...free. Free from sadness and loneliness. The grief and
suffering. We let everything out. Mga bagay na mahirap sabihin, inilabas naming dalawa sa
pamamagitan ng pagtugtog. Instruments become the medium of our emotions. Remembering
my parents. I hope my music reach them. Music isn't just music. There's a deep definition to
define it. It's how we perceive it. Tayong lahat ng tao may iba't-ibang persepsiyon pagdating sa
musika and mine is emotion. Music is emotion, music is my soul. A musician like me has a deep
understanding of music. Though, I almost forgot how to be a musician. I gave up being one.
Funny, I'm sitting infront of piano right now playing Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake, for the whole
world see and hear me play. The feeling is so overwhelming. The closer you hear the deeper
you feel.
Mas lalong bumilis ang pagpress ko sa piano keys at bumilis din naman ang pagtugtog ni Kalev
ng violin. Managing the tempo, I smiled, nakikipagsabayan si Kalev sakin and vice versa. Eto na
siguro ang sinasabi niyang we will lead each other. I let my soul be free. Ako at ang piano ay
parang naging isa. In the world I made, kami lang dalawa ang nageexist. No crowds. Didn't think
about the competition. No cameras. Just us.
Until I pressed the last keys for the finishing touch. For almost eight minutes of playing, hindi ko
maiwasan pagpawisan and so is he. Both panting, naitaas ko ang isang kamay ko when the
crowd started to cheer while clapping their hands. Eight minutes for me is like an eternity.
"What a wonderful performance!" Doon lang ako natauhan ng magsalita muli ang host. My feet
is trembling, pero wala akong magawa kundi tumayo. Walking towards Kalev, iginiya ni Kalev
ang kamay niya sa akin as I gladly accept it. "Perfect." Bulong niya sa tenga ko, as we bow
slightly at the crowd.
"Thank you for such an amazing performance, Monsieur Stanislaski and Mademoiselle." The
host said at nakipag kamay kay Kalev at tsaka sa akin bago kami bumaba sa stage na
magkahawak ang kamay.
"Your hands were cold." He said softly.
"Woah! Para akong nasapian kanina. I was just doing what my instincts told me to do!" My
feelings are overflowing. I'm afraid I couldn't take it all.
"Thank you! Thank you so much. You made my dreams come true." Hindi ko na mapigilan ang
luha ko at tsaka hinawakan ang magkabilang pisngi niya and kissed him with full of passion.
Wala na akong pakealam kung may taong makakita sa amin. All I want to do is kiss him and 
make him feel that I'm really thankful. He kissed me back with full of love. Ramdam ko na
hinawakan niya ang isang pisngi ko at tsaka ang isang kamay niya sa likod ng ulo ko, caressing
my hair. The kiss didn't last that long.
"To play for the world, and for the world hear me play." I whispered. It doesn't matter if we win or
not the important part is we enjoy every moment.
"Salamat at dahil sayo naka experience ako ng ganito sa buhay ko. You made me experience
something new. Never in my wildest dream na matutupad ang ganitong pangyayari. Thank you
so much." I can't help myself but to say thank you every time. He touches my cheeks and dried
my tears using his palms. "Don't cry, love. I hate seeing you crying." I sniffed. "I can't help it.
Tears of joy." I said and laugh a little. "You're always welcome, baby. Gagawin ko ang lahat
mapasaya ka lang. I want to make you smile in more ways than one. I'm giving back to you what
you've lost. It's yours in the first place." Bigla akong napatingin sa kanya.
"What do you mean? I don't get you." He tried to shrugged me off. "Nothing, love. Are you
hungry? Gusto mo ba na pumunta na tayo sa party? We can now leave if you want." I shook my
head, declining. "I'm not hungry. Hintayin na lang natin ang performance ng iba bago tayo
pumunta sa party." Naalala ko na sa rooftop nitong hotel, may party pagkatapos ng competition
and doon iaanounce kung sino ang nanalo sa recital. He turn his back at me.
He's hiding something from me. I ought to know why and what? Why is he hiding something and
what is it? Kahit ako walang idea kung ano yun. Kung dati sinasabi kong maghihintay ako
hanggang sa masabi niya ang mga tinatago niya, pero sa tingin ko walang balak sabihin si
Kalev sa akin kahit isa. I'm being impatient. So I've decided, ako na ang gagawa ng paraan para
malaman ko kung ano man ang tinatago niya. It's me against my human nature. All I need is a
little confidence until I uncover everything.
***

[ 44 CHAPTERXLII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 42: Time

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
   "Kalev my man! You rock on the stage bro." A good looking guy approached us, about Kalev's
age, wearing formal attire. May hawak siyang isang kopita na may laman na brandy sa isang
kamay. He has this cool aura, at mukha naman siyang friendly and approachable. Iba sa
pagkilala ko sa iba pa niyang kabigan like Alexander Coben, Severus Vetellí, and his cousin
slash friend Nikos Stanislaski na mukhang pinagkaitan ng ngiti sa mga labi at pawang dala lahat
ng problema ng ekonomiya. They are all good looking, though. But for me, Kalev ranked first.
It's already eleven in the evening, at pagkatapos  magperform lahat ng contestants dumiretso
agad kami sa rooftop ng hotel. Actually, there's a pool and different color of lights. Mayroong
mga waiter and waitress na nagseserve ng cocktails and canapés with a summer vibe. Medyo
may karamihan na din ang mga tao but the rooftop can accumulate enormous number of
people. Kanina ko lang din nalaman na lahat ng sumali sa competition ay may pangalan sa
industriya. The winner will receive 5 Million Dollars at idodonate sa chosen charity na kanilang
pinili. Kahit papaano pala may malaking tulong ang programa na ito sa mahihirap na tao.
And there, someone just approached us. "You too." Baling niya sa akin. Bigla naman akong
nagulat because he acknowledged my presence. "T-thank you." I shyly said at medyo nagtago
sa likod ni Kalev as he possessively wrapped his arms to my waistline. The guy shook his head
at may munting ngiti sa labi niya.
"By the way, the name is Xerxes Pennsylvania. One of Kalev's closest friend." He added as he
extended his hands. "Medyo nagulat yata kita, don't worry hindi ako nangangagat." With a
chuckle, I extended my arms too and shake his hand "Marsh." I said. We heard Kalev hissed.
"So possessive." Inakbayan naman ako ni Kalev bago humarap sa kaibigan niya. I assumed
Xerxes is really his friend dahil hindi naman niya ito kakausapin kung hindi. He has this
personality na kung hindi ka niya kaibigan o kakilala he won't talk to you unless may benefit
siyang makukuha sayo. Isa lang iyon sa napapansin ko, mukhang tama naman ako sa
napapansin ko.
"What are you doing here?" Kalev asked with a frown. Bumaling naman ang atensiyon ni Xerxes
sakanya, "Baka nakakalimutan mo ako ang producer ng recital competition na 'to." He said with
a smug face. Bigla akong nagulat sa sinabi niya. Seriously? Ang kaharap kong lalaki ngayon ay
ang producer ng competition? That means that he's really really rich and powerful. "Anyway,
imagine my shock when I saw you playing on the stage with a beautiful lady with you. Playing
with your violin like you're the only person existing. But I admit, you look really awesome
upstage." Pero unti-unting kumunot ang noo niya bago tumingin sa akin. "But you look familiar,
Marsh. Saan nga ba kita nakita?" Shock is registered on my face.
"Oh right! Ikaw si—"
"Don't you have anything to do, Pennsylvania? Get lost." Kalev said with a stern voice. He's
doing it again. Pushing away people who wants to say something. Buong akala ko ay aalis na si
Xerxes but he stayed. Actually, mukhang hindi niya narinig si Kalev he's still looking at me
intently.
"Wait, wait, wait. I've already saw you somewhere. Oh right! Way back in College days, you're
the girl—."
"Shut the fuck up, Pennsylvania." Medyo tumataas na ang boses ni Kalev. "The girl? What do
you mean? I don't get you. Can you speak more slowly so I can understand you, please." My
voice is kinda begging. Maybe Xerxes knew something. "He's a lunatic, baby. Don't listen to him.
Walang filter ang sinasabi ni Xes. We better get going." Inakbayan ako ni Kalev as he guided
me patalikod kay Xerxes but I stayed rooted on my place. "No. I want to hear what he's about to
say." Matigas na sabi ko, means I'm really serious. I can feel his body stiffened.
I faced Xerxes, my face is asking. Encouraging him to continue. "Ohh..." he said jokingly as he
rubbed his hand to his nape. Unsure, he answered. "...oh right. May gagawin pa pala ako. I
need to manage something and read my speech once again. So, maiwan ko na muna kayong
dalawa dito. See you when I see you." Mabilis na salita niya at tumalikod.
"Xerxes! Xerxes!" Tawag ko sa pangalan niya to get his attention praying that he will look back
at akmang hahabulin ko na siya ng pigilan ako ni Kalev.
"Stop it, Marsh. If you want to ask something then ask me, you don't need to talk to Xerxes." I
can sense the jealousy in his voice, maybe because I'm talking to another male species pero
hindi ko siya pinansin yet I removed his hands na nakahawak sa braso ko. "Really?" I said
sarcastically. "You won't even tell me a thing yet you're saying that? Na sayo na lang ako
magtatanong when you couldn't even answer a simple question." I met his gaze that makes me
even frustrated. I can't read his emotions! Hindi mo makikita kahit akong bakas na emosyon sa
mukha niya. I can't help myself but to raise my voice.
He sighed. "Keep that for the meantime. This place is not the best place to talk about such a
serious matter." I can't control myself anymore, mas lalo lang nadagdagan ang pagkainit ng ulo
ko, I was mad, beyond mad, dati naman hindi ganito. Ramdam ko sa sarili ko na kailangan kong
ilabas ito. I can feel I'm kinda changing, hindi naman ako sensitive na tao at hindi madaling
magalit, but why now? I don't know. Siguro dahil sa tagal ko na ring naghihintay na magkusa si
Kalev pero wala pa rin siyang ginagawa. "When  is the perfect time and where is the perfect
place then, Kalev? Tell me." I really tried my best to remain calm but the more I speak the more I
become mad and angry. "Answer me." Hindi makapaniwang napatingin sa akin si Kalev, siguro
hindi niya inaasahan na ganito ang magiging reaksiyon ko. "What's with you, babe? What's with
the sudden outburst. I don't want us to fight." He tried to reach me pero humakbang ako
patalikod. "We're not fighting." I said with a smirk, giving and making him taste his own
medicine. "We're merely talking." I grin. He always does this, I think I'm getting into his nerves
but he's getting in to my nerves too, pantay lang kaming dalawa, "Stop this nonsense Kailangan
na nating umalis."
Umiling. "No, not until what Xerxes means by that. I know he's talking about me earlier."
"Stop being stubborn Marsh. For the love of god, drop it—" bago pa niya matapos ang sasabihin
niya biglang tumunog ang phone. He's frowning, ng makita niya kung sino ang tumatawag sa
kanya. He even distanced himself while answering the phone! Pero nanatili pa rin ako sa
kinakatayuan ko, habang pinagmamasdan siya. Masasabi ko lang na mukhang nagaaway sila
sa way ng pakikipagusap ni Kalev, but still he's controlling his self, he ended the call bago
lumapit ulit sa akin.
"We need to go back and pack. We're going back to the Philippines." I didn't answer at
nanatiling tahimik na nakasunod sa kanya kahit gustong-gusto kong itanong kung bakit kami
aalis agad, kung ano ang problema pero pinigilan ko ang sarili ko. I always need to remember
that I am mad at him and I won't talk to him. Hindi ko mapigilang maiyak, oh no! Why am I so
emotional? I secretly dried the tears that is about to drop.
WE DIDN'T talk to each other on the way to the hotel at hanggang sa makapasok kami sa
private airplane niya. I'm kinda sleepy too, I checked the time. Kaya naman pala, it's already one
in the morning. Nang makarating kami sa hotel kanina agad akong nagpalit ng jeans and
sweater bago magempake ng ilang mga gamit at agad dumiretso sa airport. He's beside me,
reading some files, he won't even talk to me! Argh! Hindi man lang ba niya ako kakausapin?
Okay, fine! Padabog akong umupo at tsaka pinikit ang mga mata ko as darkness consumed me.
For almost 18 hours all I do is to sleep, sleep, and sleep. Hanggang sa sinabi lang ng piloto na
lumapag na kami sa airport and in any minute ay bababa na kami. I get my bag pack na
nakalagay sa luggage area at tsaka binuhat yun and yeah I'm ready to go. Namimiss ko na rin
ang kapatid ko kaya gusto ko na rin agad lumabas ng eroplano.
"Where are you going?" Rinig kong sabi ni Kalev ng makita niya akong naghihintay sa pinto in
order to exit.
"Home." Akala ko hindi na niya ako kakausapin, I sighed.
"You're going with me." Malamig na pahayag niya habang tumayo.
Tumalikod ako sa kanya. "No. You didn't even asked me."
"Because I'm not giving you any options. Arguing is futile, you're coming." By that, may
naramdaman akong yumakap sa akin mula sa aking likuran. "I'm sorry, baby. Pansinin mo na
ako. I've been dying to talk to you but I stopped myself. You need time for yourself and I need to
figure out something." Shocked by his words, buong akala ko wala na siyang balak kausapin
ako. "But you're avoiding me for almost eighteen hours!"
His chin was rested to my bare shoulders, hands encircled on my waistline. "Walang
patutunguhan ang usapan kung parehas tayong mainit ang ulo. We need to calm ourselves first
and give each other time before facing the problem again. I missed you, sweetheart. Please,
wag ka na magalit sa akin." He touches my shoulders at tsaka pinaharap sa kanya. Umiwas ako
ng tingin.
"Look at me." But I didn't, mas lalo akong lumingon sa gilid. "Love, look at me." Ipinikit ko muna
ang mata ko bago tumingin sa kanya. This is why I don't want to look at him. Nagiging marupok
ako lalo na sa mga titig niya. Nagbuntong hininga muna ako at kinagat ang ibabang labi. "I'm
mad, at nagtatampo na rin ako. It's just that you're so mysterious and I want to know more about
you. You're building a wall between us, drawing a line na hindi ko dapat lagpasan." He cupped
my face and put a lingering kiss on my lips. "I love you, Marsh. I'm already working on it. You
only need to trust me and always be at my side dahil hindi ko kakayanin kung wala ka sa tabi
ko. Do you get me, wife? You're my source of strength yet my weakness. You're my light but can
also be my darkness. You're my life but can also be my death." His eyes, were sad. "Hindi
naman ako aalis. Hindi naman makitid ang utak ko but you need to make me understand,
Kalev." I hugged him. Ako na mismo ang unang yumakap sa kanya.
"You're not mad anymore?" I nodded. "Can you please come with me bago tayo umuwi? I need
you to be there." I tiptoed and kiss his cheeks and nose. "Do you really missed me that much?"
Tumango ako at sumiksik a leeg niya, sniffing him. Bakit ang bango- bango niya? "Sasama ako
sayo pero saan ba tayo pupunta?" Oh God. Kung kahapon naiinis ako sa kanya pero
pagkatapos ng usap namin ngayon gusto ko siyang halikan at amuyin.
COBEN'S MEDICAL HOSPITAL
WHAT are we doing here? Hindi ko na magawang matanong si Kalev dahil he has this straight
face and seems to be lost in his own thoughts. Hanggang sa maabot namin ang elevator, he
touches my hand and give it a soft squeeze. I hope my presence can calm him.
"I don't know why we're here pero sana maging maayos ang kalabasan natin." Sabi ko sa
kanya.
"I hope so. I'm hoping." He said—whispering. Something is bothering him.
Sabay kaming lumabas ng eleventh floor, naglakad kami papuntang east part ng hospital
hanggang madaanan namin ang waiting area. The eleventh floor consists of various presidential
suit. I know, dahil dito rin dati ang room ni Marco. There's only few paper, nurses walking with
patients.
"Son! Goodness I thought you won't come." Maluhang pahayang ng ginang. There's a woman in
her late-60's ang lumapit sa amin—rather lumapit kay Kalev. She's good looking at matangkad,
she's wearing a designer clothes and she looks younger than her age. She's really pretty a
goddess perhaps?
"Mom." Oh my goodness. She is Kalev's mother? Bakit hindi niya agad sinabi sa akin na
makikita ko ang nanay niya dito sa hospital? Madame Stanislaski hugged his son tightly. Doon
ko lang napansin na maga ang mata niya, at malungkot ang mukha. Maybe she's been crying
all night long.
"I want to talk to the doctor first. I'll be back shortly." Humarap siya sa akin, his eyes were
asking. He bend down hanggang sa maabot niya ang tenga ko. "Stay with my Mom, Marsh." He
whisperedz
"Pero—" hindi ko na natapos ang sasabihin ko ng dirediretso na siyang maglakad. Ano bang
iniisip ni Kalev at iniwan niya akong magisa kasama pa ang nanay niya. Uh-oh. Awkward.
"Uhmm. Good evening po Ma'am." Nahihiyang pahayag ko sa ginang. "So you're Marsh. My
son's girlfriend. Nice to meet you, iha. Sorry to cut your vacation but we need Kalev's presence
here." Tumango naman ako. "Naiintindihan ko po. Family comes first. Pero paano niyo po
nalaman ang pangalan ko?" Nadagdagan ang kaba ko dahil sa sinabi niya. Gusto ko rin sanang
itanong kung bakit niya nalaman na boyfriend ko ang anak niya. Ganito pala ang pakiramdam
kapag kaharap mo ang magulang ng boyfriend mo. I'm having a cold feet at sobrang lakas ng
tibok ng puso ko.
She smiled. "My son called you Marsh. At tsaka he's holding your hands tightly, his eyes were
fixed on you. Halata sa mga titig niyo na mahal niyo ang isa't-isa. It's not hard to tell that both of
you were in a relationship. Plus, I've already seen you on the tabloid and watched your classical
performances in Italy." Her voice were sweet and soothing. Para siyang nakikipagusap sa isang
maliit na bata. It's actually nice, naalala ko si Mama sa kanya. My cheeks reddened. She had
seen me play with her son.
"By the way, my name is Hillary Stanislaski. You can call me Tita Hillary or if you prefer Mom.
Walang kaso sa akin yun." I smiled back at her.
"Tita Hillary." Mom agad? Sigurado ba siya? Hindi pa nga kami kasal ni Kalev, I mean not legally
married dahil as far as I remembered we both went to Sistine Chapel as we said our vows to
each other. "Yes, dear? I'm really sorry dahil naabutan mo pa ang pamilya namin na ganito. I
should have invited you to a nice dinner o kaya naman pumunta ka sa bahay so that we could
have a quality time. Ilang beses ko ng kinulit si Kalev na ipakilala ka na niya sa amin." Kumunot
ang noo ko.
"Wala naman pong nasasabi si Kalev sa akin."
"Why am I not surprise. My son is really like that, being possessive to something he holds. Upo
muna tayo bago natin hintayin bumalik ang kasintahan mo." We sat and stayed on the waiting
area.
"Kung hindi niyo po mamasamain, sino ang ang nakaconfine dito sa hospital?" Nako naman
Marsh. Bakit ba naman hindi mo mapigilan magtanong palagi. She started to cry silently. May
munting luha ang lumabas at tumulo sa mga pisngi niya. Guilty—agad  ko namang nilabas ang
panyo ko at inabot sa kanya.
"Pasensiya na po kung natanong ko. I'm really sorry po." Mahinang sabi ko at unti-unti ng
nawala ang kaba sa dibdib ko. "It's okay iha. I'm really emotional this past few days. His father
has a brain cancer. At nakaconfine siya ngayon dito. I don't know what to do anymore kung
mawalan na naman kami ng myembro ng pamilya." I hugged her as I slightly pat her shoulders.
This is what I'm best at—comforting other people.
"Losing one member of a family is really painful." I said hanggang sa maalala ko na naman ang
magulang ko. Kalev never mentioned anything about his family to me. I'm being curious again.
Ito ang problema sa akin, madali akong ma–curious sa lahat ng bagay. I intended to ask and
ask and ask hanggang sa makuha ko na ang sagot na hinahanap ko.
"And I even convinced Kalev to come here kahit alam kong ayaw niya. I'm aware that coming
here is against his will. Kalev and his father don't have a good  relationship. Something bad
happened and Kalev become aloof since then, I just wanted my family to be one again, na kahit
papaano makompleto ang pamilya ko. That's my dream, before I die, gusto ko munang mabuo
ang pamilya ko." Malungkot niyang pahayag. "Pero ang mas inaalala ko ay si Kalev. I know as a
mother, that he is suffering. Pero mabuti na lang at nandiyan ka sa tabi niya iha. Bihira lang
umuwi ang batang 'yon sa bahay and for almost many months I'm not seeing my son ngayon ko
lang nakita na masaya ang mukha ang anak ko. He's more alive again. Even if I failed being a
mother to him nandiyan ka pa rin correcting my mistake. Thank you, iha. Salamat at dumating
ka." My heart broke when I heard her. She's suffering.
"No, Tita Hillary. I should be the one thanking you.. Thank you for bringing and raising such a
wonderful kid. Kalev helped me to kill my inner demons. Kalev is like blessing as disguise to me.
Ramdam ko naman pong pinalaki mo ng tama si Kalev at nagawa niyo po lahat ng tuntunin
bilang isang ina. Don't cry, Tita Hillary. Matutulad rin po ang pangarap mo if you keep on fighting
for your dreams."
She dried her tears. "Pasensiya ka na iha. Nakita mo pa ako sa ganitong kalagayan. Thank you
for listening to me." Unti-unti na ding gumaan ang pakiramdam ko at hindi na ako kinakabahan.
Maybe, Tita Hillary needs someone to listen to her and comfort her. For me, isa siya sa
pinakamalakas na babaeng nakilala ko. Fighting for her own family na para maging buo muli.
"It's okay Tita Hillary. Everything's gonna be alright. Gagaling po ang tatay ni Kalev. All the
doctor here is expert to their own fields. He will survive."
"Sana nga, iha. Sana nga. But can I ask for a favor?" Tumango naman ako.
"Sige po."
"Can you help me persuade Kalev to talk to his father? This will be a burden to you pero sa
tingin ko ikaw lang ang pinapaniwalaan ng anak ko." She touches my hand. I smiled to
reassured her.
"Wag po kayong magalala, Tita Hillary. Susubukan ko pong kausapin si Kalev."

😂
***
Mz's: Shout out sa mga marurupok out there. Hold on to your panties guys, malapit na
matapos to. Yeeeeeeeeyyyyyyy~

[ 45 CHAPTERXLIII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 43: The Twin

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
      Wala kaming ginawa ni Tita Hillary kundi magkwentuhan. We shared laughters and sorrow.
Tsaka ko lang napagtanto na ang gaan sa pakiramdam kapag may nakakausap, she look lile
she's strict but the truth is she's funny and approachable.
Nasabi rin niya ang sarili niyang saloobin ng napanood niya ng live ang competition namin. I
learned that Kalev is really not into violin. Kinwento niya sa akin na way back he was a child,
required sa pamilya nilang matutunan ang iba't-ibang instruments.
Siguro, ganon talaga ang mayayaman following some set of traditions and rules. I said to
myself. "Since then, nakafocus lang ang attention niya sa pagaaral ng piano. He's natural
playing piano it's like I molded him to become a pianist. Actively listening to his tutor. Hanggang
sa mag eighteen siya, doon ko lang nalaman na hindi umaattend ang anak ko ng violin ng
lesson, he doesn't like stringed-instruments. He cursed his teacher at sinira niya lahat ng
stringed-instrument na nakita niya sa isang room. Do you know why?" She chuckled but I stay
attentively. Her face glows habang kinikwento niya ang mga alaala niya kasama ang anak niya.
Kahit ako, hindi ko maiwasan na ma-touch sa kinwekwento niya.
"He said he doesn't want to hurt his fingers, callouses all over. But then, after a month, he's
been acting strangely at doon ko lang nalaman na nagaaral na siyang mag violin. I asked him,
but he answered he's bored." Another chuckle came from her mouth. "Imagine my shock when I
heard him play once, but I'm happy with him. At ngayon naman, nakita ko siyang sumali at
nakipag participate sa isang malaking competition. I'm so proud of my son. Both of you are so
perfect. And I forgot to congratulate the two of you. The two of you won the competition."
Malaking ngiti ang ibinigay niya sa akin. Unti-unti pang nag sisink sa utak ko ang sinabi ni Tita
Hillary.
"Did I heard it right? We won?" Tiningnan ako ni Tita Hillary na naguguluhan. "Yes, the MC
called your name upstage but the two of you didn't show up. Pinapanood kayo ng buong mundo
Marsh, as Xerxes Pennsylvania continued his speech." Hindi ko mapigilang tumili. "You didn't
know?" Tumango naman ako habang pinipigilan pa din ang na sumigaw ng malakas ayoko
naman makakuha ng atensiyon pa ng iba. "Umalis na po kasi kami ng makatanggap ng tawag si
Kalev." The feelings is so overwhelming. Pero mas masaya pa rin ako na nakapag perform ako
upstage pero sa tingin ko bonus na rin kapag nalaman niyong nanalo ka sa competition.
"Marsh." Our conversation was interrupted nang marinig kong tinawag ni Kalev ang pangalan
ko. Bumalik na siya at tsaka naman hinawakan ang kamay ko kaya napatayo na rin ako. "Mom,
we need to go." Tumayo na rin si Tita Hillary.
"Hindi mo ba pupuntahan sa loob ang Daddy mo, Kalev? Kakarating mo lang anak, why don't
you stay first?" Sabi ng ginang.
"I talked to Alexander. He needs to observe him for two to three days before deciding kung
kailangan ba niyang mag undergo sa operation. Don't overwork yourself Mom. He'll live." Kalev
said strictly.
Nakita ko na naman ang pagkalungkot ng mukha ni Tita Hillary. "Ang kapatid mo? Ayaw mo ba
siyang makita bago umalis? She misses you so much. Umalis lang siya to get some clothes.
Kasama niya ang mga bodyguards niya in any minute paparating na siya."
I feel like I'm a outsider here. I'm not part of the family yet I'm listening to their personal
concerns. At hindi ko rin alam na may kapatid pala si Kalev. Ano pa ba ang mga dapat kong
malaman sa kanya?
"Mom, please. Stop torturing me." Yun na lang ang sinabi ni Kalev at tsaka tumalikod na sa
ginang. Ako naman ay walang magawa kundi magpaalam and promised her that I will help her.
"I'll try to help, Tita Hillary."
"Please do iha. Kailangan ko talaga ng tulong mo. I want him and his dad to talk. Funny, those
two has the same personality. Parehong nagpapatigasan at nagpapataasan ng pride. I know it's
too late, pero gusto kong magayos na ang dalawa." Ngumiti lang siya ng tipid sa akin and bid
her goodbye. She even asked me if I have a free time,  and if yes, I'm free to go to their house
and have a lunch with them but I politely decline. Kalev didn't even introduce me properly to his
Mom, something is off and I'm about to find out kung ano ba ang mali.
PAGKALABAS namin sa hospital sinalubong kami ng mga tao na may hawak na camera at
microphone. Nang makita kaming dalawa ni Kalev na palabas ng hospital ahad silang lumapit
sa amin asking many things.
"Damn. I didn't saw this coming." I hear him hissed. He touches my shoulders as he help me
walk pass through the crowd.
"Mister Stanislaski, what is your feeling that you won?"
"Is your girlfriend a heiress?"
"Can you tell us kung saan kayo nagkita ng bagong dinidate mo ngayon?"
"Mister Stanislaski please look here and answer us."
Patuloy lang kaming naglalakad hanggang sa marating na namin kung saan naka park ang
kotse niya.
"Hindi na tayo makakapag dinner sa labas. We need to go home now." Sabi niya ng makapasok
kami sa loob. "It's okay. Gusto ko na rin naman makauwi." I answered back as I seat
comfortably on the seat when I heard him dialing someone.. I'm exhausted and tired.
"I don't want to be pestered by the press. Handle it for me, make sure na walang mga reporter
na naghihintay sa lahat ng pupuntahan ko." He said on the phone, his voice is cold and a hint of
power. Muntik ko ng makalimutan, his words are law.
"Are you okay?" Tanong ko kay Kalev na kanina pa tahimik na magdadrive. He didn't glance at
me at tumango lang. "Yeah."
"So you have a sister?" His body were rigid. Even though you keep what you feel, your body
and emotions cannot lie. What you feel inside reflects on the outside.
"Yes. Her name is Ruby." Her eyes sparkled when he mentioned her name pero bakit ayaw
niyang makita ang kapatid niya, kung banggitin naman ang pangalan ni Ruby ay
maratamdaman mo ang pagkamiss ni Kalev. Maybe this is the right time to help Tita Hillary and
ask about his father.
"Kalev, can I ask?"
"What?" I sighed bago ipinagpatuloy ang gusto kong sabihin.
"Why don't you want to talk with your father? Diba ikaw na rin ang nagsabi sa akin na time
soothes all sorrow at masinsinang usapan can mend everything." Bumalik lang sa isip ko mga
sinasabi niya sa akin. Humigpit ang hawak niya sa steering wheel.
"Did Mom persuades you to do this?" He said sarcastically. "It's not about that. Gusto ko lang
naman makatulong." Mahinang pahayag ko.
"Well for the record you're not helping. Stop poking your nose to the wrong direction." Strike
one. I'm offended. Hindi ko na itatago yun. Pumikit muna at kinalma ang sarili ko.
"Pero Kalev sarili mo lang ang pinapahirapan mo. Look at you, you're hurting inside." Lakas
loob na sabi ko. Hindi ko alam kung saan ako kumukuha ng lakas ng loob ngayon.
"Hindi ko alam kung anong nangyari sainyo between your father pero—" hindi ko na naituloy
ang sasabihin ko ng itingil niya ang kotse sa tabi bago humarap sa akin. He looks irritated.
" 'Yun pala eh. Wala kang alam. So better yet shut up. I don't need your opinion right now. Don't
meddle with my own life, this is my own problem. Girlfriend lang kita. Don't try reading what's on
my mind, I forbid you to do so. Stop looking at me like I'm fucking vulnerable because I'm not!"
He said angrily at me. Strike two. I triggered his inner demon to come out. Nandito na ako,
ngayon pa ba ako titigil? Hindi ko na iniisip kung ako ang magiging  outcome nito.
"Your father is not well but you keep being stubborn at mas piniling hindi kausapin ang sarili
mong ama because of your damn pride. Mabuti ka pa nga dahil may ama ka pa. What if he died
habang hindi pa kayo naguusap kung ano man ang dapat niyong pagusapan. Maybe you are
right wala akong alam sa mga nangyayari sayo dahil ang dami mong itinatago sa akin, I just
don't want you to live with guilt and you need to take action before it's too late. Your father is still
alive, you still have time. My parents were dead and I'm too late saying sorry. I just don't want
you to end up being like me." For seven years of living with guilt, ayokong mangyari sa kanya
'yun dahil napakahirap. Kung araw-araw ba naman na makakaramdam ka ng guilt at magisip ng
kung ano-anong what if's.
"Oo, girlfriend mo lang ako, but this girlfriend of yours is concern with his cold hearted boyfriend!
I want to save you from drowning with your own sorrow. I'm only asking because I get the
feeling sometimes that you want to say something, but that you keep stopping yourself." Even
this broke my heart, patuloy pa rin akong nagsasalita. I'm also hurting and offended by his
words. Bakit hindi ko ito agad nakita? Bakit sariling kalungkutan ko lang ang napapansin ko
nung una? Bakit sariling problema ko lang ang naiisip ko? Kalev helped me slain my own
demons, I think I need to help him too. Para masabi namin na pareho kaming masaya. I wanted
to help him. I'm determined, because he's the person I want to be alive with.
He gave me a reason to live. I want to give back the favor. Kahit hindi na siya mabuhay para sa
akin, kahit mabuhay na lang siya para sa sarili niya.
"But I don't fucking need your help! This is my own problem, my own shit, you're out of the
picture." Strike three.
"You're always saying advices to me but you didn't even applied it to yourself. Sorry because I
will not say sorry for being nosy." And I stayed on the passenger seat quietly and he started to
maneuver the car.
Masyado ng late ng makauwi kami sa penthouse niya. We didn't talk with each other that night
and that break my heart into pieces. Kahit sa pagtulog naming dalawa, my eyes were wet with
tears, kakaayos lang namin pero bakit hindi na naman kami nagpapansinan? I want to talk to
him pero siya na nga ang nagsabi na talking won't solve everything, we need to calm ourselves
first. Siguro kakausapin ko na lang siya kinabukasan. Hindi ko napansin na umiiyak na pala ako.
Why am I crying? I'm really being so emotional. Hindi pa naman ako sanay na ganito kaming
dalawa, giving me cold shoulder really affects me big time. I dried my tears secretly, I want
nothing but the darkness consumes me.
NAGISING AKO mula sa araw na tumama sa mukha ko. Agad ko namang kinapa ang gilid ko
but I learned that Kalev is no longer than. Tumayo ako at inayos ang sarili ko, balak ko pa
naman sanang gumising ng maaga para ipagluto si Kalev ng umagahan. It's already nine in the
morning, at medyo nalate na akong gumising. Ang totoo niyan ayoko pa talagang bumangon sa
kama dahil tinatamad akong kumilos ngayon, humarap ako sa salamin hindi na ako nagtataka if
I look pale now. I always looked pale though. Bumabalik na naman sa isipan ko mga paguusap
namin ni Kalev. Hindi ko na naman maiwasan masaktan. I miss him so much, his touch, his
smile, his eyes but...
"Girlfriend lang kita."
"Girlfriend lang kita."
"Girlfriend lang kita."
Please stop! I said to myself. I want my day to be productive kaya pinilit ko ang sarili kong
bumangon at bumaba. Nakita ko sa kitchen na naglilinis ang care taker ng penthouse ni Kalev.
Her name is Aling Linda. She's sixty three yet she's still working part time. Nakilala ko siya dati
at nagkausap na rin kami.
"Good morning po Aling Linda. Nakita niyo po ba si Kalev?" I asked bago umupo sa isang stool.
Kahit naman alam kong late na ako sa trabaho at umalis na rin si Kalev, nagbabakasali akong
nandito pa rin siya. I wanted to see him and hug me. I miss him. My tears started to fall pero
agad kong pinunasan yun. I don't want to worry Tita Linda.
"Si Kalev ba kamo, anak? Nako! Umalis na 'yung batang 'yon kanina pang alas-siyete habang
hindi pa nakakapag almusal. Hindi ka na niya ginising dahil para daw makapag pahinga ka."
Bigla naman akong nalungkot sa sinabi ni Aling Linda. Is he really mad me? Para hindi niya
gisingin at isabay sa trabaho? I'm wounded.
"Ayos ka lang ba anak? Mukhang magkakasakit ka." I shook my head. Nakakataba ng puso na
tinatawag niya akong 'anak'. Ang saya lang sa pakiramdam. "Ayos lang po ako. Magliligo lang
po ako at susunduin ko na ang kapatid ko sa bahay nila Tori." Tumayo ako sa pagkaupo at
akmang aalis, pero nakaramdam ako ng hilo.
"Sandali iha, ayaw mo bang kumain muna?" Umiling ulit ako. "Wala po akong gana." Ngumiti
lang ako ng tipid.
"Ikaw ba ay may problema anak? Kung meron man ay kumain ka pa rin. Para may lakas kang
harapin ang mga problemabg kinahaharap mo."
"Salamat po. Kakain po ako mamaya." Pagkasabi ko nun agad akong umalis, pakiramdam ko
na kapag pinilit ko ang sarili kong kumain ay isusuka ko lamang ito.
Bumalik ako sa kwarto at naligo, kailangan ko ng sunduin ang kapatid ko sa condo ni Tori bago
ako pumasok sa trabaho.
"MARSH ARE you okay? You look pale." 'Yan agad ang sinabi ni Tori sa akin ng magkita kami
ulit. Pinapasok niya ako sa loob ng condo unit niya. The place is huge at sobra pa sa isang tao.
"I'm fine, nasaan na si Marco?" Tanong ko naman. Dito ko sinundo si Marco, sa condo unit na
ginagamit ni Tori.
"Nagbibihis lang para maghanda para sa school. Anyway, to the girl who just won the
competition that's the least expression that I expected." She's wearing a school uniform too.
Mukhang may pasok din ang isnag 'to.
"You really look pale. Nagaway ba kayo ni Kalev?" Nagulat ako dahil sa sinabi niya. Mind reader
ba siya? Wala pa naman akong sinasabi sa kanya.
"If you're wondering why I know it's because I can feel something is off and it's written all over
your face." Nagbuntong hininga na lang ako. Baka nakalalimutan ko, si Tori ang kausap ko.
Wala akong lusot na sa isang 'to.
"We had a fight." I said in a low voice.
"About what?" Nagaalinlangan ako kung dapat ko bang sabihin ito kay Tori but I did tell her.
"I told him to talk to her father." Her eyes widened.
"Oh no! You just hit the sensitive part of him, Marsh. Hindi na talaga maganda ang relasyon ng
mag-ama na 'yun since then. Wrong move, Marsh. Take it from me, I don't have any slightest
idea what happened with those two but I think you owe him an apology. Kahit ako nga hindi ko
alam kung bakit dahil napaka private talaga ng pamilya nila. We didn't even dare to speak Red's
name."
Tori is right. I'm feeling guilty right now. I want to say sorry to Kalev, dahil kahit ako naman ang
ilagay ko sa sitwasyon niya hindi ko din maiiwasang magalit, if other people will hit some
sensitive part of me. I even persuaded him! And make him act out of his will. I feel so awful.
Pero kahit ang bigat na ng dibdib ko, something just caught my attention.
"Red?" I asked. Parang wala naman akong natatandaan na may binangit siya sa akin na Red
ang pangalan.
"Si Red. Rubi's twin." So he has two sisters.
"But I never seen them and he never mentioned that he has a sister."
"Red is dead Marsh, matagal na." Nailagay ko lang ang kamay ko sa bibig ko para tabunan ang
pagkagulat ko.
"That household forbids everyone to mention Red's name. Kahit nga kami bawal, but you're
already part of the family kaya sinasabi ko sayo but you just need to be quiet and pretended not
to know, malalagot talaga ako. Pero sana wag mo sabihin kay Kalev na sinabi ko sayo. He'll be
mad at me. You know that's a personal problem, he really doesn't like anyone to meddle with his
business. Alam mo naman ang ugali ng isang 'yun." I nodded my head habang pinaprocess pa
din ang mga sinabi niya sa akin.
"Pero alam ko namang magkaka ayos agad kami." Pinipilit kong pasiglahin ang sarili ko.
"Dapat lang, no? Siguro nagpapalamig o kaya naman ay nagpapakalma lang si Kalev. Fan pa
naman ako ng love story niyo. Ang cute niyo ngang couple eh, parehong-pareho." She said,
habang kinikilig pa.
"What do you mean parehong-pareho?" Nakakunot noo kong tanong. Binigyan naman niya ako
ng kakaibang tingin.
"Hindi mo ba alam? Magkaugali kasi kayo ng pinsan kong si Kalev. Both of you have the same
personality. Both of you are always relax, calm, reserved, and ahmm how do I put this? You
understand each other, actions are better than words ang drama niyo. And then you're good at
reading facial expressions of other people. That's just my point of view hindi mo naman
kailangan seryosohin yun." She smiled sweetly like she eats a lot of chocolate. Kalev and I were
alike? I didn't think about that. But he doesn't seem to understand me last night. Hindi man lang
niya ako magawang kausapin and he even left me at home a while ago.
Gusto ko pa sanang tanungin si Tori kung ano pa ang nalalaman niya tungkol sa magkambal na
Red and Ruby pero bigla na lang bumukas ang pinto at niluwa nun ang kapatid kong naka
school uniform na.
"Ate Marsh! Namiss po kita." I get his bag pac at ako na ang nagsuot nun before hugging him.
"Namiss din kita Marco. Halika ihahatid na kita sa school. Say bye to your Ate Tori and say
thank you." Humarap naman ako kay Tori.
"Bye-bye Ate Tori. Thank you po sa pagaalaga sa akin." Tori pinches Marco's cheeks playfully.
"You are always welcome, Marco. At tsaka you're always free to come here if you like." At
nakipag high five si Tori kay Marco.
"Pakisabi na rin po kay Kuya Trevor, thank you dahl tinuruan niya ako mag PSP." Masiglang
pahayag ng kapatid ko. Nagkatinginan naman kaming dalawa ni Tori. She awkwardly smiles
and laugh. "Ha-ha-ha. Oo naman makakaratint kay Trevor." she winked. Mukhang nagkaka love
life na si Tori ah. Masaya ako para sa kanya, hindi ko na 'yun sinabi dahil mukhang nahihiya pa
siyang sabihin.
"Thank you talaga sa pagaalaga kay Marc, Tori. Una na kami, ihahatid ko pa kasi siya sa
school." Tori patted my shoulders.
"No problem, Marsh. Goodbye, ingat kayo."
"You too." We bid each other goodbye as we part our ways.
Sabay na kaming bumaba mula sa condo unit ni Tori. Sumakay siya sa kotse niya at ako naman
ay nilagay sa loob ng kotse ni Kalev and gamit ng kapatid ko.
Paalis na sana ako sa penthouse ni Kalev ng bigla na lang sumulpot si Gerald sa harapan ko
sakay ng kotse na laging ginagamit ni Kalev papuntang opisina.
"Pinapasabi po ni Sir Stanislaski na ihatid ko kayo kung saan niyo man gusto." He said so I
don't have any choice but to follow his order. His words are law at tsaka wala na akong lakas
pang makipagtalo.
Kaya naman hindi na din ako nahirapan na ihatid si Marco sa school niya. When we're on our
way to Marco's school nagkwentuhan lang kami ng kapatid ko sa loob ng kotse. Telling me
stories that happened to him when I'm away, how he'd been doing. I'm glad that he's really
alright.
Pero habang naguusap kami, my mind is flying somewhere else. I want to talk to Kalev. Ang
bigat sa pakiramdam habang patuloy ko pa ding iniisip na may tampuhan kaming dalawa.
***

[ 46 CHAPTERXLIV ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 44: Gone mad

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View
        I waved my hand while bidding my goodbye to Marco, nakita ko namang masayang
pumasok ang kapatid ko sa gate ng school niya habang kumakaway din sa akin pabalik and
later on tumakbo na siya papasok.
Tumalikod ako when I no longer see my brother at tiningnan ang kotse kung saan ito naka-park.
Bawal kasi na basta ka na lang magpark kung saan lalo na at school zone ito. Kaya nakita ko
ang kotse ni Kalev na nakapark sa kabilang lane. Tumingin ako sa stop lights at naghintay
hanggang sa pwede nang tumawid. Agad naman akong naglakad sa pedestrian lane habang
nakatutok ang atensiyon ko sa itim na kotse na pagmamay-ari ni Kalev, but everything went
fast. Somebody is shouting, I don't know where the voice came from. I can hear the cheering of
car wheels, and I'm not aware what's happening.
"Miss, watch out!" I heard behind my back at ako naman lumingon, just to see a guy shouting
habang may tinuturo sa right side, kaya naman lumingon ako sa kanan ko hanggang sa makita
ko na may kotse na papalapit sa akin.
"Move! Goddamnit!" Nakatuon lang ang atensiyon ko sa kotse na mabilis na paparating sa akin.
I was glued in my place, hindi ko alam kung paano ba ako iiwas, my heart raced and I couldn't
move a muscle. Sobra ang kaba na nararamdaman ko, my mind went blank, at ang tanging
naririnig ko na lamang ay ang mabilis na pagtibok ng puso ko.
Bigla ko na lang naramdaman na may matipunong braso na humatak sa akin at hinila ako
papalayo.
"Magpapakamatay ka ba, Miss!?" The car that almost hit me go in its way. Nakatingin lang ako
sa papalayong kotse, I can't still move a muscle. The stranger helped me to stand up.
"What the actual fuck." Sabi niya ulit at doon lang ako natauhan. Bakit bigla na lang
humaharurot ang kotse na 'yun palapit sa akin kung naka-red ang button ng mga kotse at green
naman sa stop light ng pedestrians?
"Geez. You look sick, unwell, and weak." I heard him say. Doon ko lang napansin ang lalaki. He
stood 6'0 feet in height and he wears rugged jeans and a white V-neck shirt. Naka converse
shoes at nakataas ang buhok niya. Parang nakita ko na siya dati?
"Are you just gonna stare at me the whole time?!" Hinila niya ako hanggang sa makatawid
kaming dalawa.
"S-sorry inaalala ko lang kasi kung saan kita nakita. Salamat na din dahil sa tulong mo, kung
hindi dahil sayo baka ano na mangyari sa akin." I said with a half smile on my lips. He started to
calm down.
"You are welcome. And yes, nagkita na tayong dalawa. My name is Raven Salazar, the owner of
Pleasure Me Bar." Bigla kong naalala magsasalita pa sana ako upang itanong kung bakit may
drugs sa bar niya and all pero hindi na niya ako binigyan ng pagkakataon magsalita.
"Kaibigan ko si Kalev and I don't know that you're his type of girl." Natatawang sabi niya. I got
offended. Hindi ko pinakita na nasaktan ako sa sinabi niya.
"Tell me. Sino naman ang type niyang babae?" I tried to sound it call but my voice sounded
throaty.
"Hmm." Lumapit siya sa akin at hinawakan ang hibla ng buhok kong natatakpan ng mukha. I
winced.
"Not someone who's pale, weak, and fragile." He eyed me from my toes, to my head. "And
someone who can fight for him, who can help him from the black hole he made by himself. If
you can't get this through, it's better if you stay away from him. Be kind to his soul. I think by
merely looking you, he's already hurting. I don't want to appear rude and please take my words
seriously."
I clenched my hands into fist. Bakit naman masasaktan si Kalev sa tuwing nakikita ako? I don't
get it.
"I'm not a shallow person. Don't jud—." Hindi ko na naman naituloy ang sasabihin ko.
"I'm not judging you Marsh. There's a difference between being honest and the judgement can
wait. Alam kong sasabihin mo na hindi mo iiwan ang kaibigan ko pero paano na kung ikaw na
ang nasaktan in the end?" His words were harsh and it pierce to my heart. I didn't even think
about. I don't think about the future anymore dahil ang mas importante ay ang ngayon.
"Kaya mo ba maging selfless?" Mukhang naghihintay siya ng sagot ko kaya pumikit muna ako
bago ako magsalita.
"For Kalev I will because I love him." Nakita ko ang pagsilay ng ngiti sa labi niya. No, he wasn't
smiling. He's smirking.
"Can love conquers all? How powerful is your love for him?"
"Yes and even myself can't measure my love for him." No exhibit done. I answered right away.
"Pero bakit naman siya masasaktan sa tuwing makikita niya ako?" Naguguluhan pa rin ako. I
need an answer.
He sighed. "That night ruined his life, Marsh. Wala na akong sa position para sabihin kung ano
yun. It's not my story to tell." I hate this feeling. Being left in the dark again without no idea about
the situation.
What night? Why is he speaking in riddles. Bakit hindi na lang niya sabihin sa akin.
"Where's the car? You need to go, now."
Subconsciously, I nodded.
"Ma'am, ihahatid na po kita pauwi." Nasa labas na din pala ng kotse si Gerald. "Thank you
again." Sabi ko kay Raven Salazar na nakatayo sa harapan ko at dumiretso na kung saan naka
park ang kotse at pumasok ako sa back seat.
"Pwede bang sa kompanya mo na ako ihatid, gusto ko kasi makita si Kalev." I mumbled na
makaramdam na naman ako ng pagkamiss sa kanya. Goodness. I want to see him and tell him
everything will be alright. Na kahit ano man ang tinatago niya sa akin matatanggap ko siya
because I love him. But love really conquers all?
Who knows?
The car ride is a torture for me, para bang napaka bagal ng takbo ng oras, kaya ng makarating
agad kami ay agad akong pumasok sa loob, pumasok sa elevator and click the 9th floor. After 5
minutes of waiting, finally the elevator door opened and I walked outside just to see Erin looking
at me with curiosity.
"Oh Marsh, bakit ka nandito?" Sabi niya, nagulat naman ako sa tanong niya.
"Bakit naman hindi? Saan pa ba ako pupunta, working hours ngayon diba?" She shook her
head.
"No, what I mean is Mister Stanislaski went outside para puntahan ka. He even told me to
cancel all the appointments for today and rescheduled it." Kumunot ang noo ko.
"Kalev is not there?" Turo ko sa loob ng opisina niya. Tumango naman si Erin to agree.
Oh no, gusto ko pa naman siyang makita. Bulong ko sa sarili ko. Saan ko naman siya
hahanapin? Gosh. I miss him so much. I need to tell him I'm sorry and I love him more than he
can imagine.
Kalev Stanislaski's Point Of View               "You're a dumbass, Kalev. Nasaktan si Marsh with
your words. Hindi na ako magtataka kung iwan ka niya sooner or later."
Why am I with this idiot?
"Man! You're so fucked up."
"I know. You don't need to remind me every time." I said while chugging the beer down draining
half. I'm with Nikos—drinking a beer in the daylight inside my office.
"God! Why am I always with you? Bakit ba napakabait kong tao at sinasamahan kitang uminom
katirikan ng araw. Mahal ang talent fee ko at tambak ako ng trabaho." I sighed.
"Stop talking nonsense. Alam kong mali ako." It's just that, I made her cry last night.
"You are a jerk," I know.
"Kung alam mo naman pala na mali ka, bakit di ka humingi ng tawad. Bakit nandito ka sa loob
ng opisina mo umiinom. Akala ko ba ayaw mo mawala sa paningin mo si Marsh, pero bakit
nandito ka at wala siya?" I shrugged my shoulders and started to stare to nothingness.
"I asked Raven. Siya na muna ang magbabantay kay Marsh." I stand up from my swivel chair as
I open the lid of the can.
"You are really something, Kalev." That's something I'm best at. Stalking Marsh, even if we're
already together. I love her so damn much and I don't want her leaving me behind. She's my
star, my moon, my sun all wrapped in one. I know I hurt her last night, but damn I'm being
inconsiderate.
Fuck my life! For almost many years of practicing my self-control, I lost it yesterday. Hindi ko
mapigilan ang sarili ko and then unconsciously sinisigawan ko na ang buhay ko which is Marsh.
I'd always been a decisive man and act accordingly and I blew it off.
Dad is right, I always ruin everything that I touch. Biglang humigpit ang hawak ko sa beer in can
na hawak ko but my attention focuses at the top of my table. I need to throw it, maybe later.
Tumunog ang phone ko na nakapatong din sa table. I walked straight to my table and answered
the phone.
"Raven," I said.
"She's safe now." My body stiffened. "For now."
"What the hell did you mean about that?" Pagalit kong sabi sa kanilang linya. I don't know what
will I do if something bad happen to her. I can't trust myself, lalo na kapag galit ako.
"She almost got hit by a car. Pero nakasakay na siya sa kotse kasama ang personal driver mo. I
think she's going home now." I didn't give him response and ended the call. Get my car keys at
umalis sa opisina.
"Kalev, where are you going?" Nikos said from my back. Hindi na ako sumagot. My mind went
blank and all I can think is Marsh.
"Cancel all my appointments and reschedule it." I told my secretary without even looking at her.
Wait for me baby, I'm coming for you.
Marsh Lahm's Point of View                   Woah. That was my reaction when I entered Kalev's
office. It's unusual to see his office in this kind of state. There's some beer in cans na nakalagay
sa table niya. Some files were unorganized. Bakit parang dinaanan ng bagyo itong buong
lugar?
"Can I ask for a favor, Marsh?" Hindi ko napansin na nakasunod pala si Erin sa likod ko.
"Kailangan na kasi ng Engineering Department yung plan na inapproved ni Sir. Ibinigay ko sa
kanya yun kanina and I'm sure na napirmahan na niya 'yon. Kailangan na kasi para masimulan
na kung may ipaparevise pa." Tumango ako.
"Sige, ibibigay ko na lang sayo mamaya. Hahanapin ko pa sa table niya." I smiled. I've decided
na hintayin si Kalev dito sa office niya.
"Thank you, Marsh." She said and I nodded. Dumiretso ako sa table niya at nilagay sa trash can
ang mga nakakalat na beer in cans.
Inayos ko naman ang mga papers sa table niya habang hinahanap ang sinasabi ni Erin. While
looking, I accidentally dropped one of the file in the floor. Hays. I sighed. Lalo tuloy napadami
ang gagawin ko.
Umupo ako at inayos ang pagkasalansan ng mga ito. But while doing it, I saw something that
made my heart race. It was an old family picture. Naka ipit ito sa mga papers and while
examining the whole folder, ito ang file na nakita ko sa bedroom ni Kalev sa penthouse. There's
a bold word that says C O N F I D E N T I A L
My hands were trembling while looking at the picture because I was in the picture. It's our family
picture. Bakit meron ganito si Kalev? Sobra na ang kaba na nararamdaman ko at takot. Agad
kong binuksan ang folder and my fear exhilarated.
The first page was a torn newspaper. A picture of a car accident. Bigla akong nagtaka dahil ito
ang picture kung saan naaksidente ang magulang ko. My curiosity didn't satisfy me just mere
looking at one page. I put my hands to my mouth when I saw my Dad's birth certificate on the
second page. There's a bold letter that says DECEASED. The time of death and the place.
Agad ko namang binuklat ang panibagong pahina at hindi ako nagkakamali. The third page
belongs to my mother. Halos hindi ako makapaniwala sa nakita ko, my face were wet by my
tears. Halos manginig na ang buong kalamnan ko. Isama mo pa ang puso kong halos
kumawala na sa loob ko dahil sa lakas ng pagkatibok. Hindi ako makagalaw sa inuupuan ko.
Bakit may ganitong mga larawan si Kalev. I want to know why? Bakit meron siyang isang punit
na dyaryo, kung saan ibinalita ang aksidente ng mga magulang ko.
My head is spinning because of too much information.
The pages didn't stop there but I'm too afraid to flip the pages. At halos tumayo ang balahibo ko
dahil nakita ko ang sarili kong mukha sa pang-apat na pahina. My likes and dislikes, information
about me. Hindi lang isang larawan kundi maraming stolen picture. May ibang larawan naka
school uniform pa ako, ang ibig sabihin lang non ay matagal na itong litrato. Mas lalo akong
kinabahan ng nakita ko ang sarili ko sa larawan. Masaya akong naglalakad sa dalampasigan.
Naalala ko na ito yung mga panahon na pumunta ako sa La Casa upang dumalo sa kasal nila
Stacey and Kelvin. Meron pang nagtatrabaho ako sa bar, sa coffee shop na pagmamay-ari ni
Stacey. Hindi ko na alam ang sunod na gagawin ko. I feel so afraid and lost. There's sixty five
photos of me. Naglalakad pauwi sa dati naming apartment, may iba pang nagsiserve ako ng
coffee.
What am I missing here?
Sino ka ba talaga, Kalev Stanislaski and what do you want from me? Sino ang taong minahal
ko?
Maraming pumapasok sa isipin ko. I'm confused. I felt so betrayed.
"Baby." I got goosebumps when I heard his voice. Tumayo ako sa pagkaupo and saw Kalev
standing meters away from me. He eyed me from my face to the folder I'm holding. Nakita ko
ang pagkunot sa mukha niya. I should feel happy because I saw him again. Dahil kanina ko pa
siya gusto makita at mayakap. But now, I'm not sure anymore dahil takot ang nararamdaman
ko.
"Why are you holding that?" His voice were low and tried to approach me. Bigla akong
nakaramdan ng tension kaya agad ako napasigaw.
"Stop right there! Wag kang lalapit sa akin." Naiiyak na sambit ko.
"Baby please. Drop that files." I'm too afraid by looking at him. I was shaking and trembling.
Sobra sobra ang takot na nararamdaman ko.
"Stop calling me baby and explain this to me! Sino ka ba talaga! Why did you approach me?
And made me feel like this? Why!?" I shouted. This is too much for me to handle. Humawak ako
sa table for support because my whole body is trembling. Sumasakit na rin ang ulo ko and in
any minute puwede akong bumagsak.
"I'm sorry." Sambit niya habang nakitingin pa rin sa akin.
"Sorry? That is not what I want to hear from you! I want you to explain, why did—"
"I was the one driving the black Porsche." He said, he looks like he will cry pero pinipigilan lang
niya. "I was there in the accident."
"Stop talking in riddles and please straight to the point."
"I was the one who killed your parents." Nabitawan ko ang hawak ko and tears started to flow
like a river. It's like pouring an alcohol to an open wound. I was hurting. Para akong isang baso
na inilaglag sa sahig. "I knew it." Natatawang sambit ko sa sarili ko habang pinupunasan ang
luha ko. That's the theory I was thinking matapos kong makita ang laman na file na may
nakalagay na confidential pero pilit ko itong tinatanggi. I though Kalev won't keep anything from
me because he loves me. But I'm dead wrong.
"Bakit hindi mo agad sinasabi ng mas maaga? B-bakit..." my voice cracked. I didn't know if it is
even my voice. "B-bakit k-kailangan mo pang patagalin?" Ayokong tumingin sa kanya dahil alam
kong mas magiging mahina ako. I was beyond mad, betrayed, and hurt. Nagsasama sama sa
puso ko ang sakit and it makes me feel numb. Wala na akong maramdaman. The wound is too
raw and fresh.
"Because I was afraid what will happen. I was afraid to hurt you. I'm too fucking afraid to the
point that I'm willing to keep it a secret even if I die. I'm sorry, hindi ko sinasadya ang lahat ng
nangyari. If I could take back time sana ako na lang ang namatay. It was beyond my control. I'm
sorry." I don't know what to feel anymore. Ngayon ko lang siya nakitang ganito. He looks so
restless. He looks so lost and afraid. But my feelings is overflowing. Hindi puwedeng siya ang
unahin ko kesa sa sarili kong nararamdaman. Masyado akong nasasaktan.
"Your sorry won't return the life that was lost." I said firmly. Standing with both my feet. I'm
actually breaking inside.
"Please Marsh. Don't leave me. You told me you won't leave. You promised me." He tried to
approach me but I take one step away from him. "Don't. Wag kang lalapit." Pero hindi siya
nakinig sa akin, lalo lang siyang lumapit. Bigla na naman akong kinabahan. I don't know what
he's capable of. Sa tuwing hahakbang siya palapit, ako naman humakbang patalikod.
"Stop!" Sigaw ko habang umiiyak.
"You said you won't leave." He said, his voice were hoarse, like there's lump in his throat. And
tried to reach for my hands. Umiwas ako bago pa niya ako mahawakan. Pilit akong lumalayo sa
kanya. One more touch from him and I will break even more. It's hard to recollect my own self.
Ang sakit lang isipin na kung sino pa ang taong umayos sa akin ay siya ring sisira sa akin.
"I...I don't know anymore."
I saw a tear streaming down on his face.
* * * Votes and Comments are highly appreciated by the author.

[ 47 CHAPTERXLV ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 45: Tears

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
    "Marsh, please, stop crying. Ako ang nahihirapan while looking at you. You look paler than
before." Natatarantang pahayag ni Tori. I can't help myself but to cry. Matapos sabihin ni Kalev
ang lahat ng 'yun ay dumiretso ako sa puntod ng mga magulang ko and then wept. Buti na lang
hindi niya ako sinundan. I left him in his office.
Plus I have nowhere to go at nakita ko na lang ang sarili kong kumakatok sa pinto ng condo unit
ni Tori. Nagulat siyang makita akong umiiyak at wala na siyang magawa kundi yakapin ako at
yumakap naman ako sa kanya pabalik. It's been three days. Three days na akong nagsstay sa
condo ni Tori. At araw-araw akong umiiyak na walang palya.
"Drink this para hindi ka ma-dehydrate." I get the glass of water in her hands at tsaka uminom.
At tsaka pinunasan ang luha ko. Hindi ko pa rin maiwasang masaktan while remembering what
happened this past few days. Hindi kasi talaga maiiwasan ang makaramdam ako ng betrayal
and of course, masaktan ng lubusan.
"Ano bang nangyari Marsh? Noong isang araw ko pa gustong itanong sayo. Gusto mo ba
tawagan ko si Kalev so he can take care of you." I panicked when I heard his name.
"No please. Not Kalev."
"Okay, okay calm down Marsh." She patted my shoulders at tsaka umupo sa kama kaharap ko.
Sinabi ko lahat ng nangyari sa aming dalawa ni Kalev these past three days. Ngayon lang ako
nagkalakas loob sabihin sa kanya ang mga nangyari. I know I can trust her. She's listening to
me attentively without asking a question.
"And I saw many stolen pictures of me. I got scared. When I saw him, para bang hindi siya ang
Kalev na nakilala ko. He's kinda different, his aura says it all. How can he keep a secrets from
me? Lalo na at involve siya sa pagkamatay ng magulang ko." Eto na naman ang mga luha ko,
hindi na naman maiwasan sa pagtulo.
I'm trying not to cry in front of Tori, trying not to look pathetic but tears is something that I can't
control.
"Please don't tell him that I'm here. Gusto ko muna makapagisip. Please help me Tori."
Tumango naman siya and held my hands.
"I will definitely help you Marsh. Pero may tanong ako sayo and you need to answer me
honestly." I nodded.
"What are you feeling right now?"
Ano nga ba? Ano ba ang dapat maramdaman ko ngayon?
"Yung actions na ipinakita mo kanina sa harapan ng pinsan ko, normal lang na 'yon ang
gagawin mo. Nasaktan ka kaya naman naging emotional ka. And when you're emotional all you
can think is your own without considering others. It's normal." I looked down, fidgeting my
fingers.
"I'm not okay. The past, it's all coming back. I started playing the what-if-game again. What if I
didn't persuade my mother to go to the recital competition, what if I didn't meet Kalev, what if..."
"Ssshhh..." Tori cut me off and hug me.
"I'm hurt." I said in a low voice. "Betrayed, broken, wounded. My heart is aching, the pain
pierces through my heart. Every words coming from Kalev's mouth stung." Kinapa ko ang
kanang dibdib ko. Hindi ako makahinga ng maayos.
"You're so strong Marsh. Ikaw lang ang taong nakita kong umamin na hindi ka okay. See? Most
of the people I encountered told me that they are all okay even they're not. Unlike you, you're
too honest with your feelings. You aren't afraid to show me what you really feel. This is just a
phase, Marsh. Pagsubok lang to between you and Kalev." Umiling ako.
"It's not that easy, Tori." I heard her chuckled lightly.
"Of course! Nothing is easy. Lahat naman kasi ng tao nakakaranas ng difficulty and your
moment arrived. Pero Marsh aksidente lang ang nangyari." I cried again.
"I know. Pero ang laki ng nawala sa akin, ang mga magulang ko. I've been living my life with
guilt. Alam mo ba ang pakiramdam na mabuhay ng hindi ka man lang nakahingi ng tawad sa
taong hindi na nabubuhay sa mundo? Kahit siguro ilang beses akong humingi ng tawad sa
hangin wala pa rin akong mapapala."
"You're underestimating your parents, Marsh. Alam kong maiintindihan ka ng parents mo even
they're already in paradise. Maiintindihan ka nila dahil anak ka nila."
I hope na sana ganon na lang kadali ang lahat.
"How about Kalev?" Hindi muna ako nakasagot ako.
Nanaig ang katahimikan sa aming dalawa.
"I'm mad at him." So mad that I couldn't even look at him in the eyes.
"I'm disappointed."
"You won't leave him, right?" Hindi ako makasagot sa tanong niya.
"Marsh, I know nabibigla ka lang ngayon. But don't be impulsive. Wag kang magdecision agad if
you're emotionally unstable baka ikaw rin ang magsisi sa huli. Yes, let's say that you got scared.
Kahit sino naman matatakot kung makita mo mga stolen pictures mo. Habang kinwekwento mo
sa akin hindi ko din maiwasang isipin na psychopath ang pinsan kong 'yon. Imagine this simula
noong high school ka may pictures ka kay Kalev. Isn't that romantic?" She said habang
pinipigilan ang ngiti.
"It isn't romantic. It's creepy." Sino naman ang nasa tamang pagiisip ang gagawin ang mga
bagay na 'yon. That only means that I really don't know Kalev. Kalev is a mystery, he still is.
Natahimik kaming dalawa at ilang minuto akong nakatitig sa kawalan. And subconsciously, I
asked.
"What am I gonna do?" Basag ko sa katahimikan.
"Acceptance." She said like she's someone who is also in pain. "You need to accept everything
Marsh. That's the only think you need to do in order for you to he happy again. You need to
accept to yourself na wala na ang mga magulang mo. You are always holding to that memory,
Marsh. Eto na ang sinasabi ko, na pareho nga kayo ng ugali ni Kalev. Both of you are stuck in
the past. I knew that Kalev pulled you out pero bigla ka na lang bumalik sa nakaraan mo. Let go
and focus to the things that makes you happy."
Kung sana ganoon na lang kadali ang lahat.
I stared to nothingness again. Replaying every moments with Kalev. 
"If you can't get this through, it's better if you stay away from him. Be kind to his soul." 
Nagreplay sa utak ko ang sinabi ni Raven sa akin.
Is it better if I stay away from him?
"For Kalev, I will because I love him." Napangiti ako ng pagak ng maalala ko ang sinabi ko kay
Raven.
Can love really conquers all?
Am I being shallow?
How can I love a man without even loving my own self?
My head throbs. Bigla na lang sumasakit ang ulo ko, siguro dahil sa pagod. Ilang oras na akong
umiiyak.
Pero ano ba ang iniiyakan ko?
The death of my parents? Kalev's betrayal? My past? Me hating myself or loving a man na sa
una pa lang hindi ko na kilala?
Kahit ang sarili ko hindi ko na kilala.
"Marsh? You look really sick." Umiling ako ng dahan dahan.
"I'm not sick. I'm just tired and I want —." Bigla na lang may nagdoor bell at malakas na kalabog
ng pinto ng condo unit ni Tori.
Nagkatinginan kaming dalawa. "Iche-check ko lang kung sino yun. Wag kang aalis ng bedroom
ko Marsh." I nodded my head. Umalis si Tori at nilock muna ang pinto ng bedroom niya bago
umalis.
At dahil hindi naman soundproof ang kwarto ni Tori ay rinig na rinig ko ang usapan sa labas.
"May balak ka bang sirain ang pinto?" I can hear Tori's voice.
"Nakita mo ba si Marsh? I'm looking everywhere. I can't see her. Paano na lang kung may
nangyari sa kanya. Please, help me Victoria." My heart beat loudly in my chest. At kahit masakit
ang ulo ko, tumayo ako at naglakad palapit sa pinto at tsaka sumandal. It was Kalev's voice. It
was slurred and I can sense that he's drunk.
"What are you talking about? Nawawala si Marsh?" Nagpapasalamat ako kay Tori dahil hindi
niya ako nilaglag sa sarili niyang kadugo. I can't face Kalev right now. I can't. There's still the 
pain inside my heart.
"Oh God! Tell me if she went here. I really need to see her. Mababaliw na ako kakahanap sa
kanya." There's a long pause. He sounds helpless.
"Kalev you need to go and rest. Bukas mo na lang hanapin si Marsh. Paano mo hahanapin ang
isang tao kung pati yang sarili mo hindi mo magawang mahanap?" It was Nikos' voice.
Tumingala ako upang hindi tumulo ang mga luha ko.
"Tatawagan kita agad if ever pumunta dito si Marsh. Nikos ikaw na bahala kay Kalev. I need to
rest too, may pasok pa ako bukas." And I heard some small talks hanggang sa marinig ko ang
pagkasara ng pinto.
Bumalik ako sa pagkaupo sa kama.
"Marsh." Tawag sa akin ni Tori ng makapasok siya sa loob. "Try to rest too. Ako na bahala kay
Marco. Magpahinga ka na lang dito."
"Thank you so much for your help Tori." She smiled at me. "You are always welcome." She said
at lumabas ng kwarto.
Gusto ko ng magpahinga pero hindi ko pa rin magawang ipikit ang mga mata ko. Even if my
head is really throbbing badly, I stayed awake.
Kinuha ko ang phone ko sa sling bag ko just to see 167 missed calls and 55 text messages
from Kalev. Wala akong balak basahin ang text messages niya dahil lalo lang ako iiyak.
Io-off ko na sana ang phone ko ng magvibrate ito. 
Kalev is calling me. I don't know what possesses me but I answered the phone. And I realize
that I miss his voice.
"Marsh? Am I not dreaming? Sinagot mo ba talaga ang tawag ko?" His voice... mukhang
nakainom talaga siya. Hindi ako sumagot I just listened to his voice.
"Baby, you there? I missed you so much. You won't leave, right? Tell me, I want to hear it." His
voice were really slurred at minsan pumipiyok na sa dulo. How drunk is he? I covered my hands
to my mouth para hindi niya marinig ang pagsinghot ko. I'm crying and I don't know why. Bigla
na lang akong umiiyak. I'm too emotional.
I heard him chuckled na parang nababaliw na. "Sino ba 'tong niloloko ko. I must be dreaming
and even this is just a dream I want to say how much I love you. And if you really hated me to
the bones, it's better if you just kill me."
Hindi lang ako ang nahihirapan. Sorry, Kalev. I'm so sorry but I need to fix myself first before
showing myself in front of you.
Nikos Sy Stanislaski's Point of View        It's been three days. At three days na rin akong
nagmumukhang bodyguard ni Kalev. At three days na din kaming tambay sa bar. Umaga pa
lang sinasamahan ko na ang isang 'to. Kulang na lang magdala ako ng paper works at sa bar
na lang magtrabaho. I've been tracking down Marsh but I can't really track her down.
"Man, you're so fucked up." Hindi na maiwasan magcomment ni Raven. We are all wearing our
business attire while drinking in the middle of the day, unlike Alexander who's just wearing a
white polo and slacks. Buti na lang hindi siya naka doctor's gown dahil agaw atensiyon na
naman.
"Kaya ayokong main-love eh. Ganyan ang mangyayari." Sabi ni Severus Vetellì. Muntikan na
akong magpaparty dahil sa wakas nakalabas din ng lungga 'tong si Severus.
Nakaharap si Raven sa laptop niya doing something for Kalev. We are all helping him out. Alam
naman ang hirap na dinanas ni Kalev 7 years ago. Finally, nasabi na rin niya kay Marsh but I
don't know how Marsh is coping out with the situation.
"Give her time, Kalev. She needs to think." Sabi ni Alexander na nakaka-apat na baso ng dry
martini.
"It's been three days! I can't live without her." Kalev said while drinking his thirteenth glass of
brandy.
"Good thing you're still alive." Sinamaan ko ng tingin si Trevor na preteng nakaupo sa sofa
habang nakasandal ang likod niya. He shrugged his shoulders like it wasn't a big deal. Kung
hindi ko lang siya kilala, iisipin kong wala siyang pakealam sa nangyayari sa mundo. Especially
to my cousin named Victoria na patay na patay sa isang 'to. But I knew better. The six of us has
our own demons to slay but for now we need to focus to Kalev first.
Kalev on the other hand, almost lost his own sanity. Three days ago, halos sirain niya lahat ng
furniture sa loob ng office niya. At dahil napakabait kong pinsan at kaibigan ako na mismo ang
naghire ng interior designer para irenovate ang buong opisina niya. Pagdating naman sa
penthouse niya halos ibalibag niya lahat ng mamahaling paintings at vases na nagmula pa sa
iba't-ibang sulok ng mundo.
I'm wondering, are we capable of loving someone more than ourselves?
"You know what Kalev? If you want to make her stay then be a better person. Yung deserve
niya. And make a way to make her want to stay, hindi yung sasabihin mo lang na ayaw mo
siyang mawala." Mismo! Natumpak mo, Severus. Kahit papaano may kwenta din mga sinasabi
ni Severus.
"And how can you love her fully if you can't love your own self, Kalev. Isn't this the right to move
on and look forward for the future?" Bigla kaming natahimik lahat sa sinabi ni Raven. "Because
the first step of being whole again is accepting that you are broken." Nakita ko ang paghigpit ng
hawak ni Kalev sa baso.
"You need to open up Kalev. Maging open ka kay Marsh. Ipakilala mo ang totoong ikaw sa
kanya." Tinapik ko ang braso ni Kalev pero nanatili siyang nakayuko. Yes, Kalev is not speaking
but I know deep down he's already thinking what steps he needs take. That's how logical he is.
"Hintayin mong si Marsh na mismo ang lumapit sayo. Give her time Kalev. Time is important."
Good thing because Alexander is here. He can knock some senses to Kalev. Thumbs up,
Doctor Coben the third!
Si Kalev naman kung hindi ko din kilala baka isipin kong napipi na siya at nakalimutan na
magsalita. He was just sitting in the corner without talking. He looks so lost, napakagulo ng
buhok niya and his outfit were crumpled. Teka nga, naligo ba tong isang 'to? Napailing na lang
ako.
"I need to see her!" Sabi ni Kalev at tsaka tumayo pero agad ding natumba. Boy, he's drunk.
Mabuti na lang nakailang bote pa lang ako ng alak at nasa katinuan pa. Well kaming lima
naman ay nasa katinuan pa pero si Kalev lang talaga ang mukhang lasing na lasing.
How can you love someone and how much can you risk for them?
We tried to look for Marsh everywhere but she stays low key, wala talagang bakas na iniwan.
We tried to ask our cousin named Tori but she, too, don't have any idea. But as a lawyer, nature
na namin ang kumilatis ng bagay-bagay.
Nauna kong isakay si Kalev sa kotse, he's half asleep and damnit! He's so fucking heavy! Hindi
ko akalain na ako mismo ang magbubuhat sa gago na 'to. Bakit ba kasi napakabait ko? Geez.
My talent fee is really damn expensive. Umikot ako para sumakay sa driver seat when I heard
him talking to his phone.
This is the second time I saw him in his vulnerable state. Marsh really changed him.
Ang tibay din nito, kahit lasing na at halos inumin lahat ng alak sa cellar ng bar ay nagawa pang
makipagtawagan.
"Baby, you there? I missed you so much. You won't leave, right? Tell me, I want to hear it." He
muttered.
Isa ako sa pumipilit sa kanya na sabihin ang totoo kay Marsh. And the outcome is in front of me.
Napakagwapo ko naman para mainlove lang sa iisang babae. I won't settle for just one woman.
I tsked. Napalingon naman ako sa likod, I saw the four idiots na pinagsiksikan ang sarili nila sa
backseat. I face palmed. Ang laki pa naman nilang tao at kanina pa nagiingay.
"Can you fucking move? Wala na akong maupuan dito." Sabi ni Severus.
"Jesus! Can you lower than your voice. Ang ingay niyo." Sabi naman ni Alexander.
"Pambihira. Ang lakas mong sabihin niyan palibhasa ang ayos ng upo mo dyan, fucker." Sabi ni
Raven.
"Ano pa bang nirereklamo niyong tatlo? Nakaupo na nga ko sa sahig ng kotse." Trevor said with
a hint of annoyance. May mga sari-sarili namang kotse pero bakit dito magsisiksikan ang mga
walangyang 'to?
I maneuvered the car and start driving. Shit. At nagmukha pa akong driver nitong limang na 'to.
"Sino ba 'tong niloloko ko. I must be dreaming and even this is just a dream I want to say how
much I love you. And if you really hated me to the bones, it's better if you just kill me." Tumingin
ako sa gilid ko and look at my cousin helplessly talking to the phone.
I won't fall in love. Never. Ayokong maranasan ang hirap ni Kalev. Falling in love can ruin a
person.
It's a dangerous word and I'll do anything to avoid it.
I clicked the on button of the radio. Mas mabuti na lang makinig ng music kesa kay Kalev.
Ihahanda ko na ang ibang bagay sa penthouse na puwedeng mabasag dahil alam kong
pagkahatid na pagkahatid ko sa isang to magbabasag na naman 'to ng mga gamit. I think it's
okay to let him. Yun lang kasi ang way niya para mailabas ang frustration niya, sino naman ako
para pumigil.
They say a few drinks will help me to forget herBut after one to many, I know that I'll neverOnly
they can see where this will gonna end They all think I'm crazy but for me it's perfect sense
And my mates are all there trying to calm me downCause I'm shouting your name all over the
town I swear if I go there now, I can change your mind turn it all around
I know that I'm drunk but I'll say the words, and she'll listen this time even though it's slurred
Dialed her number and confessed to her but all I hear is nothing nothing nothing
Tamang-tama yung kanta kay Kalev. Inoff ko na lang yung radio. Tumingin naman ako sa
passenger seat and yes, Kalev is already asleep.
Malapit na kami sa penthouse niya ng bigla na lang may tumunog.
"What was that?" Tanong ni Alexander.
"Wag mong sabihin na na-flat-an tayo?" Takang tanong ni Severus.
"I'm afraid so." Sabi ko at binuksan ang pinto ng kotse just to see na naflatan nga kami. This
day is worse.
Sumabay naman sa paglabas yung apat at tiningnan ang gulong.
"Wala bang tools sa kotse?" Umiling ako. "I left the tools inside my garage. Hindi ko naman
inaasahan na mafla-flatan tayo ngayon, at hindi ko inaasahan na sasakay kayong apat sa kotse
ko." I muttered in disbelief.
"What are we going to do now?" Nagkatinginan kaming lima.
"Malapit na ang penthouse ni Kalev dito, so..."
Tumingin silang apat sa akin. Oh shit! Parang ayoko sa iniisip nila?
"Damn it! Tulongan niyo ako dito!" Sabi ko sa kanila habang inaalalayan si Kalev maglakad.
Fuck my life! Bakit sobrang bigat ng isang to. Mas mabigat pa sa dumb bell na binubuhat ko
araw-araw.
"Marssshhhh." Narinig kong salita niya.
"Alexander! Help me!" I said. I'm fucking sweating bullet right now. Lumapit naman sa akin si
Alexander at tumulong sa pagbuhat kay Kalev. All of us were drunk pero si Kalev talaga ang
may pinakamalakas ang tama.
"IWUVUSOMUCH MARSHHH." Kalev shouted in his drunk state.
"Kung alam ko lang na magkakalat si Kalev sana hindi na lang ako sumama sa prosisyon na
to." Raven said at nakasimangot na. His tie are already loose at nakabukas ang dalawang
butones ng polo niya.
"Crap. Nakakahiya. Hindi na ako magtataka kapag may nambato na lang ng kung ano-ano sa
atin dahil sa ingay ni Kalev. Muntikan na niyang magising halos lahat ng tao sa subdivision." I
cursed.
"What did he says?" Natatawang sambit ni Severus.
"He said I love you Marsh." Trevor said.
"Sino ba nagsabi na malapit na ang penthouse ni Kalev!?" I said impatiently. Eh kanina pa kami
naglalakad dito.
They all shrugged their shoulders at sabay nagiwasan ng tingin.
Good God! How exactly am I like with this idiots?
***
Medyo napahabaaaa ang gawin ko ngayon hahahah. Enjoy.

[ 48 CHAPTERXLVI ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 46: Stay Close, Don't Go

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
"Marsh, hindi naman sa hindi ako naniniwala sayo pero habang tumatagal mas lalong
lumalala ang kalagayan mo. Lagi mong sinasabi na wala kang sakit but your body tells me
otherwise." It's not that I can blame her.
I look really pale. May dark circles na rin ako sa ilalim ng mata ko due to sleepless nights.
Maputla rin ang mga labi ko. Lagi na rin ako nakakaramdam ng pagkahilo at walang ganang
kumain. Minsan nakatulala na lang sa kawalan. Ang buong akala ko, kung magsstay ako dito
mas makakapagisip ako ng maayos, but no. The truth is I'm afraid to face Kalev. Umiling ako.
Hindi ko siya puwedeng isipin sa mga oras na ito lalo lang akong maiiyak. Limang araw na
akong nanatili sa condo unit ni Tori. At limang araw na akong parang buhay. Once upon a time,
there was a soul inside this body.
I need to find myself first. Learn to love my flaws and all. Pero kung hahanapin ko naman ang
sarili ko hindi ko na kailangan pang magpakalayo-layo dahil kung sino pa ang lumalayo upang
hanapin ang sarili nila sila pa yung mga taong naliligaw ang landas.
I've been trying to make myself happy. I'm making myself busy. Hindi ko dapat inaasa sa iba
ang kasiyahan ko. Dapat sarili ko na mismo ang kumawala sa butas na ginawa ko sa sarili ko.
"Hindi ko na alam ang gagawin ko, umiiyak ka na naman." Kinapa ko naman agad ang pisnge
ko. She's right. Nandito kami sa kusina at umiinom si Tori ng kape while me, tubig lang. Wala na
naman akong ganang kumain.
"I need to go somewhere else, Tori." Nagulat si Tori sa sinabi ko.
"Are you sure, Marsh? Sa ganyang kalagayan mo? Hindi ka ba natatakot na makita ni Kalev sa
labas?" I shook my head.
"Pupunta ako sa puntod ng mga magulang ko." I heard her sighed.
"Gusto mo bang samahan kita?" Umiling ulit ako.
"Hindi na. Kaya ko ang sarili ko. Gusto ko rin mapagisa." I said with determination. She drinks
her coffee and nodded.
"Alright. Basta magiingat ka at umuwi ka kaagad ng maaga." I forced myself to smile.
"I will."
BUMABA ako ng taxi holding a bunch of flowers, paid the bill at dumiretso na sa puntod ng mga
magulang ko.
Ibinaba ko ang bulaklak na dala ko at sinindihan ang kandila. I can hear the rustling of leaves, I
can see few people. Bilang lang sa kamay ko ang nakikita kong mga tao. The weather is nice
and good. The sun is shining brightly.
Naupo ako sa bermuda grass habang nakatingin sa puntod nila. I stayed there without saying a
word but still I can feel the connection between me and my parents.
"I miss you, Ma. I miss you, Pa. Sana nakakasama ko pa rin kayo dito. To guide me and help
me to decide what path I will take. Ang hirap kasing tanggapin sa sarili ko na wala na talaga
kayo. I've been mourning for seven years." Basag ko sa katahimikan.
"Nakilala ko na po kung sino ang involved sa aksidente." Tumingala ako sa taas just to see the
blue skies—upang hindi tumulo ang mga luha ko.
"Mapapasabi na lang ako na sa dinami dami ng tao, bakit siya pa? Alam niyo po bang ilang taon
ko ng pinapanalangin na makilala ko na kung sino man ang sakay ng itim na kotse na 'yun. To
hear his sincere apology and I told myself that I will forgive him right away. But forgiveness is
something I can't give easily." Pumikit ako and let all my tears runs through my cheeks.
"Anak, hindi naman madali ang pagbibigay ng tawad sa ibang tao." Naalala kong sabi ni Mama
nung mga panahon na naranasan kong mabully sa school for being poor, for having a
hand-me-down things, at iniisip nilang salot ang mahihirapan sa lipunan. At agad naman silang
humingi ng tawad nung pinapunta na kami sa guidance office. The principal talked to us and ask
the three bullies to say sorry but I refused to forgive them. Kahit ilang beses silang nagsorry sa
akin hindi na maibabalik ang ginawa nila. I already got hurt and one sorry won't change
everything. Hindi ko naman kasalanan kung pinanaganak ako ng mahirap.
"Pero lalo ka lang mahihirapan kung ipapagkait mo isang bagay kung talagang pinagsisisihan
nila 'yun." Dati hindi ko pa naiintindihan kung ano ba talaga ang ibig sabihin ni Mama tungkol
doon.
"Dahil hindi ka magiging malaya kung may poot diyan sa puso mo."
"Wish you were here, Ma." Bulong ko sa hangin. She's not just my Mother but also a teacher.
She teaches me real life lessons. Muntik ko ng makalimutan ang mga sinasabi sa akin ni Mama,
dapat pala naniwala ako sa kanya. I can say that mother are always right because they are
more experienced in life. Hindi tayo ipapahamak ng mga nanay natin because all they want is
the best for their child. I love you, Ma.
Acceptance. Yan ang kailangan ko ngayon.
Accept and have a fresh start.
Madaling sabihin pero mahirap gawin pero lalong mahirap gawin kung puro lang ako salita. If I
won't make it into actions.
Hinintay ko hanggang maubos ang kandila bago ako umalis at bumalik sa condo unit ni Tori,
nakita kong wala na si Tori sa loob, I guess pumasok na siya sa school. Wala akong magawa sa
condo unit kundi ang maglinis. I tried to keep myself busy dahil kung hindi may iba't ibang
scenario ang pumapasok sa utak ko. Inayos ko ang living room ni Tori. Hindi mo masasabing
maayos at hindi mo rin masasabing magulo ang buong unit. May mga damit kasing nakakalat
kung saan at may part na hindi organized. Siguro nasanay lang ako kay Kalev na palaging
malinis. Napailing na naman ako. Si Kalev na naman ang naiisip ko. Mahirap talaga kapag
nasanay ka na sa isang tao. Hahanap-hanapin mo na ang presence niya but no, I can't face him
right now. Not yet.
Pinulot ko ang damit na nasa sahig at tatayo na sana ako ng biglang sumakit ang ulo ko
sinusubukan kong humawak sa malapit na furniture pero kahit isa wala akong mahawak, at
nagout of balance.
And everything went black.
Victoria Abbel Stanislaski's Point Of View "Victoria! Don't test my patience." I brushed my
hands to my hair.
"Bakit ba kasi pinsan kita? Napakakulit mo." Inis na sabi ko kay Nikos. Pati ba naman sa
University ay sinundan ako ng isang 'to.
"You are lying. Alam kong alam mo kung nasaan si Marsh. Maawa ka naman kay Kalev, he's
been through a lot. Kahit yun na lamang ang ambag mo." Aba lokong 'to ah mukha lang ba
akong extra dito?
"Sinabi ko na sayo nung isang araw. Wala akong alam. I will contact you right away kapag may
nalaman ako agad. Ciao! May klase pa ako." Sabi ko at sinuklian ko siya ng ngiting aso.
Nako naman! Bakit kasi may pinsan akong lawyer wala akong takas dito. Nikos knows me very
well pero sana hindi siya makahalata. I promised Marsh na hindi ko sasabihin kung nasaan
siya. It's not like I'm betraying my cousin but looking at Marsh's situation hindi ko maiwasang
maawa sa kanya. Both of them need time to heal.
Hindi pa ako nakakatalikod ng hinawakan niya ang braso ko.
"I'm going to give you Trevor's schedule for the month." Napatigil ako sa sinabi niya at hindi
agad nakapagsalita.
"Plus a VIP ticket to his concert, meet and greet ticket, and I'll make sure na pangalan mo ang
mabubunot sa raffle draw. Ang maswerteng fan girl na pupunta sa stage at hahalikan niya sa
pisnge." I swallowed hard. Pinagpapawisan na rin ako kahit nakaponytail pataas ang blond kong
buhok.
"I—I really n-need t-to g-go." Palusot ko lang talaga na may klase pa ako dahil isang subject
lang ako sa isang araw.
"And I will arrange a one week gate away para lang sainyong dalawa."
"NasacondokosiMarsh." Nakapikit na sabi ko. Damn! Everything about Trevor sounds tempting.
Trevor is an artist and he's really good. Ilang beses na ako nagpapansin sa kanya pero walang
epek. Napakatigas ng puso niya.
Napahawak ako sa bibig ko. "Stupid mouth!" I muttered. Sorry Marsh. Marupok ako pagdating
kay Trevor.
"I knew it! I fckng knew it!" Para siyang batang nanalo sa lotto, sinusuntok pa ang hangin. Akala
mo naman nanalo sa isang criminal case ang loko. "Aalis na ako, pupunta na ako sa condo.
Wag mong sasabihin kay Kalev na nasa condo ko si Marsh dahil susugod agad ang baliw na
yun." Nagkibit balikat na lang siya.
"I'm coming with you, gusto ko rin makausap si Marsh." I rolled my blue aqua eyes. "Suit
yourself." I said. Perks of having a Stanislaski blood in my veins.
"Bakit ka sa backseat sumasakay? Dito ka sa passenger seat." Parang menopause na sabi
niya. Nakasimangot naman ako.
"Hindi niyo ako driver." Hindi ko alam kung saan ba humuhugot ng galit tong isang 'to! Dinaig pa
tatlong dugyot kong kapatid sa sobrang susungit akala naman nila kinagwapo nila.
"Whatever." I said at sumakay sa passenger seat.
Hanggang sa makarating kaming dalawa sa tapat ng pinto ng condo ko pero bago ko ilagay ang
passcode ay humarang ako sa pinto.
"Promise me first. Hindi 'to makakarating kay Kalev. Alam mo naman kung paano magalit yung
isang yun. Kahit kadugo, hindi niya sasantuhin." I pouted my lips. I don't want to face his wrath.
Baka hindi pa kami kasal ni Trevor my love ay tigok na ako agad.
He give me the are-you-kidding-me look.
"Just open the door." He said. Wala na akong magawa kundi ilagay ang passcode and the door
automatically opened. Pumasok kaming dalawa, removing his coat at inilagay sa rack at ako
naman ibinaba ang back pack ko. Lumakad lang ako ng konte at nakita ko ang living room just
to see Marsh lying on the floor.
"Marsh!" Tawag ko sa pangalan niya ng makita ko siyang walang malay.
"Nikos, over here!" I said habang chinecheck ahg pulso ni Marsh. Sabi ko na nga ba at may
sakit si Marsh. She won't faint kung wala.
"Oh crap!" Nikos said and then cussed. He scooped Marsh at siya na mismo ang nagbuhat
palabas ng unit ko. Bigla akong tinamaan ng kaba at agad naman sumunod kay Nikos habang
buhat niya si Marsh.
Agad kaming dumiretso sa Coben Medical Hospital. May mga nurses naman na agad nagassist
at ipinahiga sa stretcher.
Bigla akong kumawala ng buntong hininga. Ano na lang ang gagawin ko kapag may nangyaring
masama kay Marsh? Goodness!
I saw Kalev contacting someone.
"You told Kalev?" Hindi makapaniwalang sambit ko.
"He deserves to know, Tori." Fine. It's just that I don't know kung handa na ba si Marsh
magpakita kay Kalev. I know she's planning something pero bago ko isipin ang ibang bagay,
sana maayos nag lagay ni Marsh ngayon.
Sumunod kaming dalawa ni Nikos sa mga nurse na tumutulak sa stretcher.
"Where's Alexander?" Tanong ni Nikos sa isang babaeng nurse.
"He's on his way, Sir. Hanggang dito na lang po kayo. Hindi na po puwede sa loob." Pigil ng
nurse sa aming dalawa. Kaya naman, I stopped at umupo sa malapit na upuan.
Marsh, I hope you're okay.
Wala pang tatlong minuto na naghihintay ng biglang sumulpot si Alexander. Tumango siya kay
Nikos at dumiretso na sa loob ng room.
"Diba Thoracic Surgeon si Alexander?" I asked. Tumingin ang pinsan ko sa akin.
"Yeah. Why? Are you interested on him?" Disgusting. Kay Trevor lang ako.
"Of course not! Pinagtataka ko lang, bakit siya ang palaging nagchecheck kay Marsh kung
Thoracic Surgeon siya." He give me a bored look on his face.
"He's an all-around doctor, Marsh. He aces in everything. Hindi lang limited ang field niya sa
medicine. He's a neurosurgeon, cardiologist, thoracic surgeon—." Hindi na natapos ang
sasabihin ni Nikos ng may isang taong tumatakbo palapit sa amin.
"What the actual fuck happened?" Ayan na naman. Kinakabahan na naman ako. I know that
alam na ni Kalev na sa condo ko tumutuloy si Marsh.
"S-she...ahmm." I cleared my throat. "She fainted." Pumikit ako dahil alam ko in any minute
sisigawan na niya ako. Kaya laking gulat ko ng yakapin ako ng pinsan kong si Kalev.
"Thank you for letting her stay to your place." Hindi ako makagalaw sa pwesto ko. That's at first!
Pinsan ko ba talaga 'tong nasa harapan ko?
"Oh-okay." Lumapit naman siya kay Nikos at silang dalawa ang nagusap.
Pero ang mas lalong hindi ko inaasahan ay nandito sa hospital si Trevor at may kasama pa
siyang dalawang kalalakihan. Which is Severus and Raven. I know them dahil noong nag-aaral
pa sila, sila ang mga kinababaliwan ng mga kababaihan sa university na pinapasukan ko
ngayon.
Marsh Lahm's Point of View
"What are your feelings right now?" Napatingin ako sa gilid just to see Jack Frost with his
stethoscope.
"What happened to me?" Walang lakas kong pahayag. Ang naalala ko lang is pinupulot ko ang
damit ni Tori hanggang sa mahilo ako pagtayo at ma-out of balance.
"You fainted, Marsh. Over fatigue and because of stress." May parang maliit na flash light na
tinapat sa mata ko and he checked my mouth.
"S-sino ang nagdala sa akin dito sa hospital?" May sinulat siya sa papel na hawak niya and
answered without looking at me.
"Nikos and his cousin named Victoria." Tumango ako ng dahan-dahan.
"I-is K-Kalev here?" Tumigil siya sa pagsulat at ibinaba ang file na hawak niya. Pinagmasdan
muna niya ako bago sumagot.
"Yes. The whole gang though." He's here yet I'm not ready to see him.
He get the syringe na nakapatong sa side table.
"This will sting a little but I need some of your blood for testing." Wala na akong lakas para
tumanggi pa. He get some of my blood at nilagyan ng bulak ang braso kong tinurokan niya.
"Well based on my observations, your conditions are not well. Are you taking care of yourself,
Marsh? Not enough nutrition, lack of sleep, you are dehydrated. As of now, habang hindi pa
confirmed ang hinala ko hindi muna kita papayagan uminom ng kahit anong gamot. You need to
eat healthy foods that contains rich in Vitamin C and potassium. I suggest na kailangan mong
maglakad lakad at maarawan ka kahit kaunti lang. I will leave you, now." Sumara ang pinto at
bigla ulit itong bumukas. Napatingin ako sa taong pumasok sa loob, it was Tori and Nikos.
"Marsh! Mabuti na lang gising ka na. Sorry at iniwan kitang magisa sa condo ko. Nagguilty ako."
She said childishly.
"Don't be. Kasalanan ko na rin naman kung bakit nangyari sa akin 'to." Tumingin naman ako kay
Nikos.
"Don't you want to see him, Marsh?"
Not yet.
Umiling ako at tumingin kay Tori.
"Can you accompany me to the rooftop? Alexander suggested that a little sunlight and a walk
can help."
"Puwede naman." Inalalayan niya akong makatayo.
"WHY DON'T you want to see Kalev? He's worried about you." Tanong agad ni Tori ng
makapunta kami sa rooftop.
Tumingin ako sa kalangitan.
"There's a perfect time for that." Sabi ko. Hindi na dapat ako padalos dalos ng decision. I may
be indecisive and impulsive but not anymore.
"Sabagay, both of you are in the healing stage." She commented.
We stayed in the rooftop for almost half an hour and decided na bumalik na sa room na
ginagamit ko. Naunang naglakad si Tor dahil matangkad siya at malaki ang hakbang niya
samantalang ako naman ay dahan dahang naglakad.
Malapit na akong pumasok sa room ng makasalubong ko si Kalev.
I don't have any plans to see him right now pero heto siya ngayon nasa harapan ko.
Nakabukas ang dalawang butones ng polo niya and his tie is crooked and loose. His hair is
messy and looks like he's sleepless. Parehas kaming dalawang natigilan at nagkatinginan. I
think he needs a shave. Nakikita ko kung gaano kalungkot ang mga mata niya at bagsak ang
mga balikat niya.
"Marsh." He mumbled helplessly, doon lang ako natauhan at agad pumasok sa loob ng kwarto.
Locking the door at sumandal sa pinto.
This isn't the time yet. I need to wait.
***
PS: Since hindi naman talaga heavy drama 'tong story na ito kaya wag na po kayong
magexpect na sobra ang iyakan and sobrang drama. This is an erotic novel, so less drama

💋
more on jugjugan. (s*x, making love at kung ano pang term) Abangan na po yung next chapter~

❤️
Yaaayyyy. Alam na ang kasunod
Votes and Comments are highly appreciated by the author
MEET OUR MEN!
1: KALEV STANISLASKI RN: Nick Bateman

2: ALEXANDER COBEN III RN: Ferran Calderon

3: TREVOR DMITRI RN: Nick Pervak

4: NIKOS SY STANISLASKI RN: Sean Altemose

5: RAVEN SALAZAR TN: Toni Mahfud

6: SEVERUS VETELLÌRN: Alessandro Dellisola

CHOOSE WISELY! KIDDING.

[ 49 CHAPTERXLVII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 47: Unmasked

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View             Hindi ko mapigilan na sumandal sa pinto, nakahawak ako
sa dibdib ko, why my heart is reacting this way? Nakita ko lang si Kalev but my senses is
betraying me. Para bang gusto kong tumakbo palapit sa kanya at yakapin siya ng mahigpit.
"If I could turn back time, I won't repeat the same mistakes again." I heard his voice. Mahina
lang ito pero sakto lang para marinig ko. Mabuti na lang at hindi soundproof ang kwarto. I can
hear him clearly.
Sumandal ako sa pinto at unti-unting umupo sa sahig but still nakasandal pa rin ako sa pinto yet
ramdam ko ang malamig na tiles sa inuupuan ko.
"I admit it was my fault. That night I was driving my car in a drunk state. I was young and
reckless. That night is also the night when my mother caught my father cheating with his
secretary." A long pause. I attentively listen to him. Kaya mas lalo pa akong sumandal sa pinto
just to hear him.
"My father isn't a faithful husband. When I was young, I think highly of my father. He's my role
model not until I turned eighteen I saw him fucking one of our maid." He let out a bitter laugh.
Hindi ko maiwasan na makaramdam ng lungkot.
"Sa mismong master bedroom pa. So indecent. Imagine it Marsh, master bedroom at kama
kung saan natutulog ang nanay ko. I can't fucking believe it! The worse part is my mother is just
staying downstairs! Hindi ko akalain na yung taong tinitingnan ko ng mataas ay napakababa ng
pagkatao. I started hating him. My mom don't have any idea na may ibang babae ang tatay ko,
at kahit ako ay nanatiling tahimik, I never said a word to my mother because I thought I'm saving
her. I can't even look at him in his eyes. I became a rebel at minsan hindi na umuuwi sa bahay. I
don't want to see him. Napakalalim ng galit ko sa kanya. How can he still kiss my mom on the
lips like everything is so perfect?" Sa bawat bigkas niya ng mga salita, parang hirap na hirap
siya. His voice is kinda cracked and I'm tempted to open the door but I stayed seated to my
place.
"That didn't stop there. I saw him with different women while my mother is staying at home. A
year or two hindi na ako nakapagpigil and confronted him and told me he will stop dating
another women. I believed him because I cared for my mom. When I turned twenty one, my
mom called me to go home because I started living with my own. Hindi ko na kasi kayang
makita siya araw-araw. Hindi ko pa naapak ang isang paa ko sa main door when I saw two girls
in the living room. A twelve-year-old twin. I saw my mom silently sitting on the sofa, my dad on
the opposite side." Another pause. I want to comfort him pero nagpatuloy siyang magsalita. I
understand now why he hates his father. At naalala ko na naman na pinilit ko siyang kausapin
ang tatay niya where in fact napakalalim ng pinaghuhugutan niyang galit sa ama niya. He has
the rights to be mad.
"As my father drop the bomb that I have a twin stepsisters my mother remained calm.
Tinanggap niya ng buong puso ang kambal and even my dad! Parang walang nagbago sa
samahan nila. How could she be so naive? Mas lalong nadagdagan ang galit ko sa ama ko.
How dare he?! May anak pala siya sa labas at twelve years niya iyong itinago sa amin. And
worse, my mother doesn't seems to care. She never been violent and will never be pero kahit
harap harapan na siyang ginagago ng ama ko tinatanggap pa rin niya pabalik. He never kept
his promise. I become more distant to them. I tried living my own life. Kaya ginagawa ko lahat
ng gusto kong gawin. Don't get me wrong, I never hated the twin named Red and Rubi.
Kinakausap ko sila ng maayos and they do the same. They are innocent at wala silang
kasalanan sa kataksilan ng kanilang mga magulang. They are both lovely and unconsciously
napapalapit na ako sa kanilang dalawa. They even told me that their mother is already dead
kaya naman pala inuwi ni old man ang kambal. My mom on the other hand, is willing to adopt
the twin. The moment I turned twenty two, the tragedy happened. That night, my mother caught
my father fucking his own secretary inside his office. His office inside the house, I was there. I
was in the house that night dahil may kinuha akong gamit sa kwarto ko. My Mom is crying while
peeking inside. She wept silently while staring at them." Hindi ako makapaniwala sa mga
naririnig ko.
"Lumapit ako sa nanay ko but she looked at me and then smile. She puts her finger to her lips
and asked me to be quiet. I clenched my hands into a fist. How can she act this way? I expect
her to shout but her voice is still smooth. She told me to forget what I saw and act like nothing
happened. And one thing I confirmed that night, matagal ng alam ng nanay ko ang mga
kagaguhang ginagawa ng tatay ko. I asked her why and she answered: Because I love him. For
me, it's bullshit!" May diin ang bawat bigkas na mga salita na kanyang sinasambit.
"I can't control my anger any longer, I walked inside the room kahit pinipigilan niya ako. I
punched him on his face as his mistress shrieks and cover her filthy body with some clothes.
Disgusting! One punch and I turn my heels away. I saw my mom's guilty face at hindi ko
napansin ang kambal na naroon din pala. Red tried to approach me pero bigla akong umiwas at
hindi siya pinansin. Masyadong nandilim ang paningin ko, get my car keys and left the house. I
went to the bar for a drink and after an hour I left. It's raining hard that night, I maneuvered the
car at nagpatakbo ng mas mabilis like I'm in a race. Adrenaline rushing into my body. Mas lalo
ko pang inapakan ang accelerator when I saw a truck na pagewang gewang sa daan at
matatamaan niya ang babaeng naglalakad sa sidewalk. Everything happened so fast that night,
in order to save the girl I sacrificed my life. Nabunggo ng truck ang kotse ko and later on I can
feel impact of  another vehicle. I wanted to get out and scream but no voice came out from my
mouth, my body feel so numb and can't feel any longer."
Hindi na ako nakatiis at tsaka tumayo sa pagkaupo. I opened the door just to see Kalev seating
on the floor kagaya ng upo ko kanina pero nakasandal siya sa pader. His eyes were red at
napakagulo ng buhok niya, gusto ko siyang lapitan but I seems stuck on my place. Tumayo siya
sa pagkaupo at tumingin din sa akin.
"After one week, nagising ako from coma. My mom is there—" Teary eyes, I tried to approach
him.
"If you're hurting hindi mo na kailangan sabihin sa akin yan. Tanggap k—" umiling siya at
ngumiti ng pagak. Ngiti na hindi aabot hanggang sa mata.
"No Marsh. Hear me out first. You need to listen to me because there will be no next time. Hindi
ko na alam kung saan pa ako kukuha ng lakas ng loob para sabihin to sayo." Itinikom ko ang
mga labi ko.
"She's crying, my mom is crying that day and told me that she's happy I gained my
consciousness back. Every time, lagi siyang dumadaan sa hospital to visits me pero
napapansin ko na puro itim lagi ang suot niya. I asked her why, but she stayed quiet, she told
me that a married couple died in the accident and Red is dead. Imagine my shock that day. My
mom started to explain, that night bago ako umalis, sinundan ako ni Red hanggang sa labas ng
gate but I never dare to look back at her. Tandang tanda ko pa kung paano ko siya iwasan at
umalis na lang. That night..."
His eyes were fixed on mine.
"That night...two man raped her and got killed in the process. Nung lumabas siya ng gate may
dalawang lasing na lalaki na lumapit sa kanya. That was what mother told me so hanggang sa
mangyari na ang pagbababoy sa katawan ni Red." Nailagay ko ang kamay ko sa bibig ko. Hindi
mawala ang pagkabigla at pagkagulat.
"Red is just thirteen yet died in unexpected manner. I can't forgive myself. Because of my
recklessness, three persons died in just a night."
Agad akong lumapit sa kanya and hugged him tightly. Pero nanatili siyang nakatayo, and later
on naramdaman ko ang pagpulupot ng kamay niya sa akin. He's...crying.
I don't want to see him hurting.
"I'm not done yet, Marsh." Umiling ako.
"Please, kung hindi mo kayang sabihin, it's okay. Hindi mo kailangan pahirapan ang sarili mo
Kalev. I understand."
"No Marsh. I need to finish what I've started. Sinasagot ko na lahat ng mga katanungan mo. I
can't risk it." He stared intently to my eyes.
"I know you so well Marsh. I know you since you are in high school while I'm studying in
College. I know you since I'm eighteen. Even if I have a shitty family, then you came."
Kumunot ang noo ko. What is he trying to say?
"The first time I laid my eyes on you, you caught my attention. I saw you playing the piano in a
contest. Mahilig na talaga magpacontest ang pamilya ni Xerxes Pennsylvania lalo na at kung
recital competition. I was there, one of the guests of the competition. You wore a white dress
and played the piano very well. At simula noon, I started stalking you. I become obsessed at
hindi nakokompleto ang araw ko kung hindi kita nakikita. Kahit napakalaki ng problema ko sa
bahay, you are there to wiped all the agony I'm encountering. Hanggang sa ipakilala kita sa mga
kaibigan ko as my girlfriend. I'm sick, right? They consider me as a lunatic, oo nga naman. I
claim you as my girlfriend even if you don't know me. I owned you even if you're not aware of it.
I tried to approach you but you're still young. At sabi ko sa sarili ko, maghihintay ako hanggang
sa dumating sa tamang edad and I will own you completely. Nakontento ako sa pagtingin lang
sayo sa malayo. You asking me why? Dahil nakikita ko ang sarili ko sayo."
Hindi ako makagalaw sa aking kinatatayuan. Matagal na niya akong kilala?
"But I never saw you back then."
"Because I tried to be an incognito. They say opposites attract but I say otherwise. I've been
following you since day one until you got yourself a boyfriend. I was beyond mad! Pero lagi ko
na lang iniisip na at the end of the day sa akin pa rin ang bagsak mo. Until the accident
happened, hindi ko alam na magulang mo pala ang namatay. Kung pwede lang sana na ako na
lang ang kinuha at hindi ang magulang mo. You lost everything you dearly hold. You gave up
playing, you gave up your studies, you gave up everything. That's why I'm here to recover all the
things you've abandoned. I'm the one who always gives you a present. The reason why I'm
giving you presents is because I really like you and not because of the death of your parents. I
got tired of just looking at you from afar at ng makita kita sa La Casa I told myself na
pagkatataon ko na to para mapalapit ka sa akin and to know that Kalev Stanislaski exists in
your life. I tried everything to keep this a secret from you dahil sa sobrang selfish ko na ayaw
kitang mawala pero kung ano pa ang itinatago ko yun pa ang mas magiging dahilan kung bakit
ka mapapalayo sa akin. I know you don't want me anymore to your life. I know that you are
afraid of me. Sino ba namang hindi? I am a stalker. A frustrated stalker."
Subconsciously, I wiped the tears that streams down to my face.
"I didn't say that I don't want you anymore in my life..." I carefully said. I think this is the perfect
time to tell him this. Hindi naman sa lahat ng oras kailangan kong tumakbo at magtago.
I must face him. I must face my reality. And my reality is in his arms.
Bigla siyang nagulat sa sinabi ko.
"What do you mean?" He stuttered. Napatawa ako kahit umiiyak. This man never failed to make
my heart flutters.
"Sa mga araw na dumadaan, iniisip ko kung paano ka harapin that's why I'm telling myself that
this isn't the right time. Ilang beses ko na ding naisipang tumakbo sa piling mo, ilang beses na
din akong natemp na bumalik sayo pero pinipigilan ko ang sarili ko, do you know why? Because
I failed you Kalev." I told him honestly, still crying. He cupped my face, drying my tears.
"I failed you because I doubted my feelings. I failed you because I didn't tried to listen. I failed
you because I become selfish creature who only thinks of myself and my own feelings. I broke
some of my promises. I become so inconsiderate. Hindi man lang kita naisip, kung anong
nararamdaman mo. And yes..." Lakas loob akong tumingin sa mga mata niya.
"Love conquers all. I already accepted my parents destiny and fate. You aren't the one to blame,
in fact you are just broken as I am but we complete each other Kalev. I'm sorry if I failed you."
Trying to dry my tears, in one swift moment I can feel his lips landed to mine. I kissed him back
while my hands is placed to his chest. We kissed like there's no tomorrow.
***
Sorry if I failed your expectations.

[ 50 CHAPTERXLVIII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 48: Chaos in control

Marsh Lahm's Point of View           "And that's the reason why I don't want to see Rubi. Sa
tuwing nakikita ko siya lagi kong nakikita si Red sa kanya. Kung hindi namatay si Red, dalaga
na siya ngayon and looks lively and beautiful just like Rubi. After all, they are twins."
While he's opening up to me hindi nawala sa paningin ko kung gaano kafix ang paningin siya sa
akin. Parang nilulunod ako sa tuwing titig siya sa akin. It makes my knees wobble. I know he
took a lot of courage just to tell me everything, he isn't hesitating now.
"Its life we're talking about. If I could ever—." Mas lalo lang humigpit ang yakap ko sakanya.
We're in the hospital corridor habang nakayakap ako sa kanya ng mahigpit.
"Don't do this to yourself, Kalev. Ang dami kong natutunan sayo habang kasama ka. Real life
lessons. Don't do this to yourself, love. Be brave and don't let your demons control you. You
must slay your own demons." Tinanggal niya ang pagkayakap sa akin at pinaharap sa kanya.
"Do you know where I want to kiss you?" Tumaas ang kilay ko.
"My cheeks?" Umiling siya.
"Nope."
"My lips?" Bakit niya kasi ako pinagiisip kung saan niya ako gustong halikan?
"In front of the altar, the priest standing in front of us as we both say I do." Seryosong pahayag
niya. My lips twitches into smile.
Hindi na ako nagpatumpikpik pa at agad ko siyang hinila papunta sa kwarto na inuukupahan ko
at hinalikan siya sa labi. He locked the door while we both kissing each other's lips.
"I find it impossible to stand in front of you and be close to you, and not get so fucking horny." I
smiled at him and it send shivers down to my spine. It kinda turn me on lalo na when he talks
dirty. Hindi ko alam kung anong mali sa akin pero sa tuwing titingin ako kay Kalev, my feet
started to wobble and that makes me wet.
Am I being pervert? Biglang uminit ang pisnge ko ng marealize kung anong ginawa ko. I
initiated the kiss. The long lingering kiss. Para bang miss na miss na namin ang isa't isa at kung
humalik siya sa akin at pawang hinahalikan ni Kalev ang aking kaluluwa. His kisses are deep
and intoxicating. Napakalalim ng halik niya sa akin, as he inserted his tongue to my mouth and
I'm willing to welcome him.
"Oh goodness." Naibulong ko na lamang sa hangin. I really missed this guy so much.
"I missed you so much, my love." Bulong niya between our kisses. I pushed him in the bed at
nakita ko kung paano siya nagulat.
"You look sexy as hell." Hindi maiwasan ni Kalev magkomento. Yeah. Hindi ko rin naiintindihan
ang sarili ko kung bakit napaka aggressive ko ngayon.
I need a make out session so intense that I forget all my problems and probably my name.
Subconsciously, biglang akong pumatong kay Kalev ng makita ko siyang nakahiga. Our lips are
both sealed at unti-unting gumagapang ang mga kamay niya sa parte ng aking katawan. I can
feel his kisses travels to my lips to my neck as he sucks my skin.
"Ohhh." Hindi ko maiwasang mapaungol as I started to rub my se* to his hardness. I can feel his
erection! Naramdaman ko ang pagkatigas niya and good god! This turns me on, big time! I just
want to sit on his lap and feel him gets hard.
"Ohh fuck. I really missed you, mi amore. I missed being inside you." The way he talks makes
me wetter even more. Nakalagay ang magkabilang kamay ko sa dibdib niya in order to maintain
balance.
"I need you, Kalev. Inside me. Now!" I whispered to his ears as I licked his earlobes. Hindi ko
alam na kaya kong mag first move sa kanya pero pakiramdam ko, ako ang pinakamataas
ngayon and feel so superior.
To be honest, this is the first time that I'm going to be aggressive and make the first move but I
don't give a damn at mas lalong ginalingan ang pagiling ko sa taas niya. Rubbing my sex organ
to his groin.
Rinig na rinig ko ang pagkaungol niya at napakasexy niyang pakinggan.
"Baby girl, damn! Kung patuloy mong gagawin I will cum to my underwear easily. And fuck that
is so elementary-ish." Rinig kong bulong niya ng marahan and he cursed like a sailor.
I can't help myself pero ginawa ko ang ginagawa ni Kalev sa akin sa tuwing kami ay nagtatalik. I
want to make him feel that I really love him. And this is the only idea na puwede kong gawin.
Ramdam ko ang paghawak niya sa mgkabilang dibdib ko. Unti-unti kong tinatanggal ang
pagkabutones ng polo niya habang mataimtim na nakatingin sa kanya.
"Are you sure that you can take all of me? How about your feelings? Owning you won't result to
any complications, right?" Kahit na hirap na hirap magsalita si Kalev ay pilit pa rin niyang
inaalala ang kalagayan ko. I smirked. Flashing a dirty smirk na natutunan ko lang kay Kalev.
Hanggang ngayon inaalala pa rin niya ang kalagayan ko.
"Don't worry. I will be in charge." Bulong ko sakanya at nakita ko ang pagkabilong ng kanyang
asul na mata. Siguro ay nagulat siya sa akin. Hindi ko na lang ito pinansin at binuksan ang
butones niya ng paunti-unti. Mabagal ang aking mga galaw, because I want to tease. I can feel
the heat that is arousing between us.
"I think you need to sit in my face and let me eat you." Hirap na baling ni Kalev sa akin pero ako
na mismo ang umiling. Tempting might it sound but right now I want to make him happy. Kaya
ng matagal ko na ang mga butones ng kanyang polo ay agad kong hinalikan ang dibdib niya at
nakatanggap naman ako ng malalim na daing mula sa kanya.
I kissed his perfectly sculpted body. All of his muscles are right in place at napaka hot tingnan ni
Kalev lalo na sa malayo. I lick his chest down to his abs at pinasadahan ng maalim na tingin.
I want to be the one who is in control.
"I get turned on by feeling your hands against my skin." Another ruffled sound from him.
I touched his well-perfectly sculpted body. Lalo na ang abs niyang napakainit sa akin mga
kamay. Leaning down, I kissed him on his lips, biting and sucking pababa ng kanyang leeg, sa
kanyang dibdib, and finally, sa kanyang abs.
"Ohh, baby. Let me make it up to you." Sinubukan niyang tumayo at ako ang pahigain sa kama
but I pushed him lightly. My man doesn't want to be ruled over. Let's see.
"Just stay where you are." Malamig na sabi ko kahit napakainit sa pakiramdam.
"You're so kinky, my love." Nagkibit balikat na lang ako at pinagpatuloy ang aking ginagawa sa
kanya. My hands travels down to his slacks and unbuckle his belt.
Nakakaramdam ako ng kaba dahil first time ko 'tong gagawin sa kanya. Masaya lagi ang first
time!
"Fuck! Damn! Your hand is so fucking warm!" Kalev said with a soft moans when I touched his
hardness. It's so hot and so so so hard and big at hindi ko siya mahawakan ng buo. Darn! How
can I be this so lucky? Hirap na hirap siyang magsalita at nakikita ko ang mga butil ng pawis sa
kanyang noo. My man love this, eh?
Without any slightest idea what to do next, voluntarily, tinaas at ibinaba ko ang kamay ko getting
a wild groan from him.
"If you keep doing that, I'm going to cum easily. I can't take this drought anymore." He said at
hinawakan niya ang magkabilang balikat ko as he turn me over. Ako na ngayon ang nakahiga
sa kama ay siya sa taas ko.
"Ka–." Hindi ko na natapos ang sasabihin ko when he kissed me on my lips intensely. Inserting
his mouth to enter and I obliged. I can feel him sucking my tongue and biting my lower lips in a
hard way.
And now I'm naked in front of him. Ang bilis niyang kumilos.
"We're going to fuck passionately and rough but soft at the same time just intimate as fuck."
Sinalubong ko ang maiinit niyang tingin.
"I like you being rough, sometimes." His smirks widen. Bakit ba napakagwapo ng isang 'to? He's
really handsome and he turned me on.
He palmed my left breast, tweaking my crown na lalo pang nagpadagdag sa init. One of his
hands travels to my core at hindi ko alam kung saan ko ibabaling ang ulo ko because he started
to move his hands in circular motion, rubbing it. That earns a moan from me.
"If I talk dirty baby, you won't feel offended right?" He said at mas lalong binilisan ang kilos niya.
Mahigpit ang hawak ko sa bed sheet at tumango sa kanya. I keep on biting my lips so I can't
moan loudly. Baka marinig ng katabing room! I can't risk being caught.
"No, I w-won't." I muttered.
He stared at my eyes and let out a dirty smirk.
"I'll make you beg. I'll fuck you until you can't feel your legs." His experts hands playing with my
core, at nang sabihin niya ang mga katagang 'yan, bigla akong nilabasan.
"I want to hear what sounds you make when your wet pus$y gets sore." Another moan from me.
Oh goodness. "Shit, love. You just came!"
"Enter me now." I muttered because I crave for him, needed him.
"Beg."
"But,"
"Beg."
Surrendering, I made my voice sultry.
"Enter me now, please. I need you to fill me. I want you. Please."
"I thought you wouldn't ask." He positioned his self and in a one swift moment he's filling me
with his hard and big and long manhood.
He keeps on thrusting in a fast speed and my hands on his back digging my nails to his skin,
sinasalubong ko ang kanyang galaw and we meet in the center. He's not kidding. He's fuxking
me hard and rough na para bang may inaabot siya sa loob ko. Pero hindi ko mapigilan na
mapaungol dahil napakasarap ng hatid nito.
Para bang may hinanap ito sa aking ito and one more thrust, I can feel something is building
inside me. He just spotted my g-spot.
"Oh baby ang sarap mo. Shit don't come first. Not yet. Hold it. Let it keep building." I bite my lips
more para pigilan na sumabog, but he keeps on pumping inside me.
"I c-can't—"
"Now." I let everything out, he come inside me hanggang sa hugutin niya ang kahabaan niya sa
loob ko. I thought we're done pero lumuhod siya sa sahig flipping me over first and yanked my
ass many times at hindi na ako magtataka kung sobrang pula ng aking pangupo at tinapat ang
kanyang mukha sa aking pagkababae.
"Hindi pa tayo tapos babe. We are just starting."  I can feel him eating and licking my juices off.
"I miss doing this to you."
He runs slowly his tongue inside each flap. Napapadaing na lang ako sa tuwing natatamaan
niya ang sensitibong parte ng aking katawan. Licking from bottom to top and flicking his tongue
over to my clit. Kaya napapataas na lang bigla ang balakang ko dahil sa ginagawa niya sa akin.
He put one fore finger inside me, as I let a loud moan. Wala na akong pakealam kung sino man
ang makarinig. And Kalev didn't mind either. And  I can feel he added one finger that's pushing
inside me, my moan get louder. May nabubuo na naman sa loob ko and I can't take it anymore,
I come again and but he push his head down to make sure he keep eating me.
ILANG BESES naming ginawa ang pagtatalik and I can say that nakakaubos ito ng energy. We
are both fresh dahil nagligo kaming dalawang sa comfort room nitong kwarto. To tell you the fact
that we did three in the bathroom. Walang patawad si Kalev, he take me in more ways than one.
He texted Nikos na dalhan kaming dalawa ng damit na puwedeng ipang palit.
"Love." He said at mahigpit na nakayakap sa akin sa kama. Yes, kasya kaming dalawa sa
kamang ito.
"Hmm?" I muttered at sumiksik sa matigas niyang dibdib.
"I really love you. Hindi ko na alam ang gagawin ko kung mawawala ka pa sa akin." I put my
fingers to his lips just to shut him off.
"Hindi na mangyayari yun, I love you so much. Mas mahal kita kesa sa dati. Showing me your
scars is a big deal and I'm so proud of you dahil nailabas mo lahat ng tinatago mo sa akin."
Tumingala ako para makita ko ang mukha niya.
"Do you know how concerned I am ng malaman kong nandito ka? Don't scare me like that
again."
"I won't."
"You feeling better?" Tumango ako at humiga sa dibdib niya.
"Yes. I'm okay now. Nawala na kasi ang mga inaalala ko. You are already here, hindi ko na
kailangan magisip ng kung ano-ano pa." He caresses my head.
"Good to hear."
We heard a knock coming from the door. Tumayo si Kalev sa pagkahiga at ako naman ay
naupo sa kama.
He opened the door and we saw Alexander with a worried and serious face. Pati ang boses niya
napakaseryoso.
"I need to talk to the both of you."
Kalev and I shared glances.
Okay, what's happening?

🤗
***
Enjoy reading

[ 51 CHAPTERXLIX ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 49: Gift

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View
     "I want my hospital to be strictly rated PG." Kalev faked a cough at sabay kaming umiwas ng
tingin.
"I see you two are together again. Congrats man, hindi ka na titira sa bar." You can't tell if
Alexander is joking or not.
"You better work on your sense of humor." Kalev said at tsaka bumalik sa puwesto niya kanina
which is sa tabi ko.
"Ano ba 'yung gusto mong sabihin sa aming dalawa, Alexander. If you don't mind?" I asked.
Kasi kahit ako, gusto ko na rin malaman.
Sinarhan ni Alexander ang pinto at tsaka pumasok ng tuluyan aa loob. Inayos niya ang
eyeglasses niya bago humarap sa aming dalawa ni Kalev.
Kalev on the other hand, nakapulupot ang kamay niya sa bewang ko na parang ayaw akong
makawala. Geez. Hindi na ako tatakbo palayo.
"Kumuha ako ng sample blood ni Marsh and run a test. There's a reason why she's acting that
way. I thought it was stress and anxiety or both but still there's a deeper reason. There's
something in her blood—"
Humigpit ang hawak ni Kalev sa may bewang ko.
"Is she sick? Talk in English, please. I don't think I can follow." Medyo tense na sabi ni Kalev.
Nagsimula na rin akong kabahan. What if I'm really sick? What if ako naman ang may sakit sa
pus—
"Marsh is three weeks pregnant."
Wait, what?
Bigla akong napahawak sa may tummy ko. I can't believe it. There's a life residing inside my
tummy. Is this for real?
"Wha—How...I mean wow." Kalev stutter at first, hindi maipinta ang mukha niya. Hindi ko alam
kung natutuwa ba or hindi. Kinakabahan ako sa magiging reaction niya.
"Oh God. I'm going to be a father." He whispered na parang hindi makapaniwala.
"I'm going to be a father! Did you hear that Alexander? I am a freaking father now." Kalev
shouted. He's so happy. Hindi ko na din maiwasan mapangite. I feel so secured and he
accepted the baby right away, the feeling is so overwhelming. Sino naman magkakaakala na
ganito ang magiging reaction niya.
Alexander rolled his eyes. "I know, motherfucker. I told you, remember?"
"Whatever." Bumaling naman sa akin si Kalev and hugged me tightly. "Thank you for bringing
such a wonderful blessing. I promise I will take care of you and our unborn baby." He whispered
kissing my lips tenderly.
"Stop eating Marsh's face in front of me, Kalev. Don't kiss in front of me." Rinig kong naiirita na
pahayag ni Alexander. Pero mukhang walang naririnig si Kalev.
"I'm going to love you unconditionally and irrevocably." He muttered between our kisses. "I love
you too, so darn much Kalev. The love is too powerful and I can't help myself but to fall in love
with you deeply." He smiled at me, cupping my face.
"Can you listen first for a minute, please? Kung gusto niyo lang naman makinig." Alexander said
with a hint of sarcasm. Hot blood rushes up to my cheeks. I forgot that Alexander is still in the
room.
"Make your speech a little faster. Nakakaabala ka sa amin dalawa." Kalev said with a smirk at
buti na lang hindi na ito pinansin ni Alexander at nagpatuloy na lang magsalita.
"You can take her home but make sure she lives in a stress free environment. Hire a personal
OB for her checkups. Just take care. I'm outta here." The doctor said and left the room.
Kalev looked at me and held both of my hands.
"Let's go home, baby. I want to take you home. Sa akin ka dapat nakatira at hindi kay Victoria.
Are you willing to come with me again? Because love, I really missed you."
"Of course I do. Kung saan ka, nandoon lang ako. So let's go?"
ONE HOUR lang ang tinagal namin para ayusin ang mga gamit ko before seeing myself in his
passenger seat. Halos hindi na nga niya ako pinagdala ng ibang mga gamit, he treated me like
I'm disabled. But isn't he cute? Sa tuwing tinitingnan ko siya I can see that he's excited over
something. And I'm liking it.
"Gusto mo bang dumaan muna sa mall? We're going to buy clothes for our baby. What do you
think? Is it a boy or a girl? It doesn't matter. Bibili tayo ng mga gamit na panlalaki at pambabae.
I'm going to hire another interior designer for the room of our baby. What color do you want—" I
cut him off.
"Kalev." I said with a laugh, holding his hands na  nakalagay sa steering wheel.
"Calm down. Three weeks pa lang akong buntis. Hindi pa natin malalaman if our baby is a girl or
a boy. We have a lot of time buying all their needs, Kalev. Don't overwork yourself, love." I
smiled, reassuring him.
"It's just that, this feeling is new to me. You opened another feeling inside me that I never
thought na mararamdaman ko. Knowing that I'm going to be a father soon, bigla ko na lang
naiisip na I need to be more responsible and even if our baby is still unborn there's a voice
inside me that I need to protect our baby from any harm. I love our baby without even seeing
him or her physically. I want to be the best father they could ever had."
"You will, Kalev. I can feel it. You will be a good and a loving father." Because he's capable of
loving others more than his own self.
I WALKED inside his penthouse. Wandering around alam kong may nagbago sa interior design
ng penthouse ni Kalev. The paintings and the expensive jars—pati yun ay nabago even the sofa
set and the television placed in the living room. Ang hindi lang nagbago ay ang piano.
What happened here?
"I almost ruined the whole place when you left." Kalev said unwittingly. "I asked Nikos to hire an
interior desig—" bago pa niya maituloy ang sasabihin niya ay bigla na lang tumunog ang phone
niya. He fished his phone inside his pocket at nagaalangan pa kung sasagutin niya o hindi ang
tawag.
"Go on. It must be important." He nodded his head at dumiretso sa may garden na part. Must be
really really important. Habang ako naman ay kinuha ko ang kaunting gamit ko na nakalagay sa
back pack bago umakyat sa second floor at pumasok sa kwarto na ginagamit ko sa loob ng
penthouse na ito.
It's still the same. Kung ano ang pwesto ng mga gamit nung iniwan ko ito ay ganun din ang
hitsura ngayon. The unopened gifts is right at the corner without having any slightest idea that it
came from Kalev. Parang dati lang, gustong gusto kong malaman kung sino ba ang
nagpapadala sa akin ng mga regalo pero ngayong nalaman ko na I already accepted what
happened to me, to us in the past. Isn't it the right thing to do? To be more rational and accept
everything in able to move forward. Must be hard at first but later on the pain is bearable to
handle.
I was back in reverie when somebody coughed behind me. Kaya napalingon ako sa mag pinto.
It was Kalev. Handsome and dashing as ever. Standing like a king.
"My mom called me and I need to go to the hospital again." Something is wrong.
"I'm coming with you." I want to be with him. To support him, alam kong galit pa rin siya sa sarili
niyang ama but I know the old Kalev is still there. Trying to reunite his family again at kahit hindi
niya pinapakita 'yun mas nanaig pa rin ang pagkagusto niyang mabuo ang pamilya niya but
something is stopping him. The guilt is stopping him. He will never be free unless he won't
accept it. Yes, he told me things that I want to know but he that isn't enough to heal him.
"You need to rest, sweetheart. Babalik ako agad as fast as I can. It won't be long. I'm going to
call Aling Linda to take care of you." Umiling ako.
"I can take care of myself."
"No, I won't leave you here alone, not a chance." I sighed.
"You sure you don't want me to tag along?" Baka makalusot pa. But seems he made up his
mind.
"I can do this, baby. You need to rest."
"Alright. Ingat ka. I love you." I said and walk towards him and kissed him on his lips.
•••
"Buti na lang nakabalik ka na, iha. Nagalala ako sayo hindi ko na alam kung saan ka pumunta."
Bati sa akin ni Aling Linda at niyakap ako.
"Kamusta ka na ba, iha? Nung huli tayong nagkita ay mukhang may sakit ka. Mabuti na lang
talaga at nandito ka. Palagi na lang lasing ang batang iyon sa tuwing umuuwi at sinisigaw ang
pangalan mo." Kalev is really wasted when I left him. I'm kinda guilty. I shouldn't have done that.
"Okay na po ako Aling Linda." I said.
"Gusto mo bang kumain muna?"
"Magpapahinga na lang po muna ako." Dahil bigla na lang ako nakaramdam ng pagod.
I was about to go inside the room when I received a text message. I thought it was Kalev kaya
agad kong tiningnan.
Sadly, it came from unknown number.
From: +639*********     Enjoy what you have right now. You'll die eventually.
My body tenses up. Sino naman ang magpapadala sa akin ng ganitong message? My heart
beats than the normal rate. What was that?
***

[ 52 CHAPTERL ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 50: Good enough

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View
Nagising ako ng may maramdaman akong yumakap sa akin. Nakatulog pala ako habang
hinihintay si Kalev.
"Hmm." He said at mas lalong humigpit ang yakap sa akin. His eyes were close at
napapagmasdan ko siya ng mas mabuti. He looks tired and restless kaya ako naman sumiksik
din sa kanyang dibdib and let him hug me. Nakasara na din ang mga curtains and mukhang
gabi na. Napasarap yata ang tulog ko.
"How was it?" I asked out of the blue.
"Coming there is still a torture. Naka-set na ang date kung kelan siya ooperahan." He said
casually. Eyes closed, medyo bumabagal ang paghinga. Kung di ko lang kilala tong isang to,
iisipin ko na wala siyang pakialam, but I know better. Deep down he's concern and hoping his
father will be fine.
I chuckled a little. Kalev belongs to tsundere type of a guy. Soft in the inside but rude in the
outside. He's like that though and I love him for that.
Sumiksik lalo ako sa leeg niya ng may maamoy akong hindi kaaya-aya.
"You smell awful." Lumayo na ako ng bahagya habang nakakunot ang noo ko. Bigla naman
niyang minulat ang mga mata niya at agad tumingin sa akin ng hindi makapaniwala.
"I smell like perfume. Yung palagi kong ginagamit, it's bvlgari." I frowned.
"I don't want your smell." Tinanggal ko ang pagkayakap sa kanya. "I don't know, my nose is
kinda sensitive." Tumayo naman siya at nagsimulang maghubad sa harapan ko. He started to
unbutton his long sleeves and unbuckle his belt.
"What are you doing?" Takhang tanong ko. My voice is shaking and I can't help but to admire
his masculinity.
He's giving me the duh expression. "I'm going to take a bath. My woman's nose is sensitive
because of her pregnancy." Lumapit siya sa akin habang wala na ang pangtaas niya. Basically
he's half-naked at biglang hinalikan ang labi ko ng mabilis bago pumasok sa comfort room.
What a tease!
Biglang umunit ang pisnge ko habang iniisip ang hubad na katawan ng Kalev. It gives shivers
down to my spine. My goodness! Am I becoming a pervert?
Ilang minuto lang ang aking binilang ng lumabas agad si Kalev mula sa comfort room at tanging
tela lang ang nakatapis sa ibabang parte niya.
He's so gorgeously fit. Lalo na ang mga muscle niya sa katawan, it's in their right places. Yung
abs niya, makakapasa na bilang ulam. My eyes were focused to his body and unconsciously I
lick my lips.
Tumaas naman ang tingin ko sa may labi niya. He's sexy lips and his sinful tongue hanggang sa
nahuli niya akong nakatingin sa kanya.
"Are you seducing me, baby? My member is hard as rock right now." He said with his signature
grin and a dirty smirk.
I gulped. "You need to rest, we both need to rest." I said habang umiiwas ng tingin at nahiga sa
kama. Bakit ako pinagpapawisan ng ganito. Naramdaman ko na humiga siya sa kama,
wrapping his body to mine. Nakasuot na siya ng boxer at itim na sando sa pangitaas. He looks
so edible. May nabasa rin akong book na ang pregnancy daw ang pinaka lustiest time sa
couples. Ngayon ko lang masasabi na, I totally agreed. It really increases my sex drive.
Pinagnanasaan ko ng 'tong si Kalev. Looking at his body, gosh. He's a greek God incarnate.
"Baby? Bakit natahimik ka?" Napasimangot ako. I kissed his nose and closed my eyes. "Tulog
na tayo?" I said, nahihiya akong sabihin na I want him to take me. Diba, hindi babae ang unang
magsabi nun? Blame pregnancy hormones. I pouted my lips.
"Okay goodnight, love." I didn't answer at tsaka ipinikit na ang mga mata ko.
•••
Ilang oras na ba ang nakalipas pero bakit hindi pa rin ako inaantok? No, it's been just thirty
minutes but it felt like hours to me. Kahit anong pwesto ang gawin ko sa kama, hindi pa rin ako
makatulog. Pinagmasdan ko naman si Kalev na mukhang mapayapa na ang tulog. Hays! I feel
so hot and uncomfortable because I know down there I'm freakin' w3t. Naupo ako sa kama
habang nakaharap sa nakahiga na si Kalev.
Pinagmasdan ko siya mula ulo hanggang pababa...a little touch won't hurt, right?
Ipinikit ko muna ng mariin ang mata ko.
Just a little touch. Just a little. It will be fun. I mumbled to myself and let my hands do all the
work.
I let my hands travels to his abdominal part at kahit nakasando siya ramdam na ramdam ko pa
rin ang tigas ng abs niya at mga namumutok niyang muscle. May kakaibang init akong
naramdaman when I started touching him. May ilang butil ng pawis na tumutulo sa mukha ko.
Pababa ng pababa ang kamay ko until I felt him stirred a little. Kaya agad ko inalis ang kamay
ko sa kanya. Gumalaw lang siya ng konte at nasimula ulit matulog.
Nako naman Marsh! Ano na naman bang kahalayan ang pumapasok sa utak mo! Pagalit ko sa
sarili ko.
One last touch. I said and place my hands into his 'thing' I place my hands at the top and give a
light squeeze. It's getting bigger and harder. Hindi ko maiwasan hawakan siya na parte na iyon
dahil agaw pansin talaga ito. Para kasing may bukol o kapag pagmamasdan ay parang may
tent siya sa loob!
Hindi dahil boyfriend ko siya, puwede ko na siyang pagnaasan. My inner self said pero parang
hindi ako tinablan ng konsensiya.
Another squeeze at parang natutuwa ako sa ginagawa ko. He's hard as rock. I chuckled. Aalisin
ko na sana ang kamay ko pero bigla may kamay na humawak sa kamay kong nakalagay sa
taas niya and squeezed my hands tightly that means I can feel his hardness even with clothes
on.
"Kalev!" I exclaimed ng makita ko siyang gising.
"Kahit sino magigising sa ginawa mo." With a throaty voice, he spins me around. Kaya ako na
ang nakahiga at siya naman ang nasa taas ko.
"All you can do is to ask, baby. Hindi mo na ako kailangan pagnasaan. I'm more than willing."
Nakikita ko na naman ang ngiti niyang nakakaloko. Bigla akong umiwas ng tingin dahil sa
kahihiyan na ginawa ko.
"I want you." I whispered.
"I want you too," he said—diving into my neck, licking it using his wicked tongue. "naked."
We made love all night until I drifted to sleep.
NAGISING AKO mula sa araw na tumama sa mukha ko. Kahit kagigising ko pa lang
pakiramdam ko na pagod pa rin ako. We made love last night at hindi niya talaga ako tinigalan
hanggang ang katawan na namin ang bumigay. Kiss marks all over my body. Yung mga lumang
marka napaltan na naman ng bagong marka.
Kakaiba rin kasi magbigay ng kiss mark or hickeys si Kalev. Dahil bibilang ka talaga ng ilang
linggo bago mawala. He won't settle if it's just red in color. Mas gusto niya kapag pula na pula at
may purplish na kulay sa mga gilid. He suck and lick really well and can make your knees
wobble and wet. Gosh! Hanggang ngayon naiisip ko pa rin mga pinagagagawa namin kagabi
hindi pa rin ako makamove on!
Babangon na sana ako ng may maramdaman akong parang hinahalukay ang tyan ko kaya
agad akong napatakbo sa cr at agad sumaka sa bowl.
"Oh god." I mumbled and started to vomit again.
"Marsh? Where are you?" Rinig kong boses ni Kalev sa labas ng cr. Siguro nagtataka kung
bakit bigla na lang akong nawala sa kama. Hindi ako nakasagot dahil simula na naman akong
sumuka.
Geez. Masyado na akong pinapanghina.
"Shit. What happened?" Alalang tanong niya ng maramdaman kong pumasok siya sa loob.
"No, don't go here." Sabi ko ng mahina at simula na namang sumuka. He's rubbing my back
and hawak niya ang buhok ko. He doesn't really listen to me. Ilang minuto pa at natapos na rin
ang session ko sa cr. I flushed it down at nag toothbrush.
Tahimik na namang nakatayo sa Kalev habang pinagmamasdan ako sa ginagawa ko.
"Morning sickness." I said at humarap sa kanya.
"I know. Nabasa ko sa internet. It's because of the rising levels of estrogen." Sabay kaming
lumabas sa cr at nakita kong may isang tray of food sa may side table.
"You read a lot, hon." I said at dumiretso sa kama at muling nahiga.
"So I know and I'm aware what I'm going to do. Kung paano ka alagaan and all. Actually, bago
ako umuwi bumili muna ako ng mga libro." Kumunot naman ang noo ko.
"Books?" Tumingin siya sa may kabilang table, kung sana nakalagay ang mga sofa. At tama
nga siya, puno ito ng mga libro about pregnancy.
He shrugged his shoulders at tsaka kinuha ang tray ng pagkain.
"I love you." I said. Sobra naman akong natuwa sa action na ipinakita niya. It means a lot to me.
I appreciate his efforts and he's really trying his best just to make me feel loved and secured.
"Let's eat, then. Shall we?" I nodded my head.
"I'M COMING with you." I said. Nandito pa rin ako sa kwarto habang si Kalev naman ay nasa
walk in closet at tsaka nagpapalit ng office suit niya.
"No, honey. You're going to stay here. Hindi ka pwedeng mapagod." Napasimangot ako sa
sinabi niya at humiga sa kama. Spreading my hands, I pouted my lips.
"Wala naman akong ginagawa dito at tsaka sanay akong may ginagawa ako kaya kailangan
kong pumasok sa opisina ngayon. Promise, hindi ako magpapakapagod." Masigla kong
pahayag.
Ayaw niya kasi akong payagan na sumama sa kanya papunta office. Gusto niya lang na sa
bahay ako, but I beg to disagree. Hindi talaga ako sanay na walang ginagawa maghapon. At
tsaka, three weeks palang akong buntis hindi naman siguro nakakasamang magtrabaho diba?
"No, baby. I'm just protecting you and our baby." Umirap ako sa kawalan.
"Parang sinabi mo na rin na totoo ang unknown number na nagtext sa akin kahapon." Sabi ko
naman while chuckling. Naalala ko na naman tuloy ang scam message na 'yun. Goodness. 21st
Century na pero uso pa rin pala ang prank messages.
"What message?" Bigla naman akong nagulat ng malaki ang hakbang niyang pumunta sa
pwesto ko.
I'm hesitating if I'm going to tell him or not. Pero wala naman mawawala kung sabihin ko sa
kanya.
"I received a text message yesterday. Saying enjoy what you have right now, you will die
eventually. It was just a prank message though." Kibit balikat kong pagayag pero nakita ko ang
pagdilim ng mukha ni Kalev. 
"Where's your phone?" Seryosong sabi niya. Agad ko namang tinuro ang phone kong
nakalagay sa side table. Naupo na rin ako mula sa pagkahiga dahil nagiiba ang ambiance ng
buong kwarto.
Dali dali niyang kinuha ang phone ko and heard him cursed when he read the text message.
Uh-oh!
"What's happening?" Takhang tanong ko.
"Bakit hindi mo agad sinabi ito sa akin kaagad? What the fuck, this is a serious case." He
cursed again and brush the thick hank of his hair upward.
"Hindi ko alam? I thought it was just a prank. Ano ba ang nangyayari?" Nagsisimula na naman
akong macurious kung anong nangyayari sa akin. He looked at me, still hesitating if he'll going
to tell me or not.
"Don't left me in the dark again, Kalev. I swear! We're all in this together. Don't even try." Biglang
nagbago ang mood ko. In just a split seconds I almost burst out in anger.
He sighed. "Someone is trying to give you a death threats. First is the snake, the second one is
about the car that almost hits you and lastly this text message." Bigla akong pinagpawisan. So
this isn't just a joke?
"At sino naman ang magpapadala ng mga ito sa akin? I mean sino ang may motibo? Isang
babae lang naman ang kilala kong hulog na hulog sayo at si Haneah yun." I muttered. Alam
kong masama ang magbintang pero siya lang talaga ang alam kong gagawin ang lahat para
kay Kalev.
"I'm working on it, baby." Hinalikan ako ni Kalev sa noo bago ako tinanguan. "That's why I'm
going to try my best to protect you." Unconsciously, napahawak ako sa may tyan ko na hindi pa
masyadong halata ang umbok.
"And my baby." I said softly almost a whisper.
"Our baby." He corrected.
Oh God. Ano na naman bang problema ito?
I'm hoping na sana wala ang masaktan na kung sino man. Why is it always be in a hard way?
***

[ 53 CHAPTERLI ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 51: Lady in red

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View
      "Marsh! Lumalabas ka pa ba sa penthouse na 'to, gosh." Tori said using her irritated voice.
Nakasandal siya ng maayos sa sofa habang hawak niya ang remote control while watching
television. At may nakalagay na bowl of sliced fruits ang lap niya.
"Masyado ka namang tinatago ni Kalev." Elizabeth said with a laugh. Umupo naman ako sa tabi
ni Tori at nakinood na rin ng movie na pinapanood niya.
It's been a week na nasa loob lang ako ng penthouse ni Kalev. He don't want me to work. Lalo
na at nabasa niya ang text message na 'yon. Kaya ngayon, nagstay lang ako dito sa loob. Hindi
naman masama kung susundin ko siya, diba? At tsaka we're being cautious even it it's not
necessary.
"Gusto mo bang lumabas tayo?" Sabi ni Tori at tsaka itinaas baba niya ang kilay niya.
Nako! Baka kalokohan na naman ang tumatakbo sa mga utak nila. Wag naman sana, I prayed
mentally.
"Saan naman?" Please, sana naman hi--
"Window shopping lang sa mall and then bibili na rin tayo ng things for your baby." Bigla ko tuloy
naalala na every day may dala na kung ano-anong gamit si Kalev at nilalagay niya sa loob ng
master bedroom. Talagang pinaghahandaan na niya.
"Ang dami ng gamit sa second floor baka wala na kaming mapaglagyan ng mga gamit." I said
with a laugh.
"Pero anyway, magkakababy na kayo ni Kalev niyaya ka na ba niyang magpakasal?" Bigla
akong napatigil sa sinabi ni Elizabeth . That question got my attention and my laugh died right
away.
"Does it matter? Ang importante mahal namin ang isa't isa." I muttered. May part sa akin na
nasasaktan pero hinayaan ko na lang iyong lumipas.
Nagkibit balikat naman si Elizabeth. "Pero ibang usapan na kapag marriage ang pinaguusapan,
Marsh. You must make sure na sayo lang talaga si  Kalev. Do you want to give birth to that child
out of wedlock? Puwede itong maconsider as illegitimate." There's a negative emotions kicking
inside me. Does Kalev have plans to marry me? I don't know. Hindi ko hawak ang utak niya.
Napatingin naman ako kay Tori na sumangayon kay Elizabeth.
"Truly! Para may pangkakapitan ka na kung kasal na kayong dalawa. Siguro naman wala ng
ibang babae ang maghahabol sa pinsan naming iyon lalo na si Haneah."
Naalala ko ulit si Haneah. The last time I saw her is in the hospital, specifically to the psychiatric
ward.
"Speaking of that witch, hindi ko nakikita ang babaeng 'yun. Even sa mga parties na
pinupuntahan ko. Anyway, wag natin siyang pagusapan nawawala ang pagka-good mood ko."
Hindi na ako nagsalita at tsaka tinuon na lang ang atensiyon sa tv.
Naiisip ko pa rin ang sinabi ni Elizabeth.
Does Kalev really don't have any plans to marry me? Pero ano naman ngayon kung wala?
Basta ang alam ko mahal niya ako at mahal ko siya. But still something is lacking.
Ano ba tawag sa amin ngayon? Magka-live in na magkakaroon na ng anak. What if magbago
pala ang isip ni Kalev at hindi niya kami gusto sa buhay niya. Knowing him, baka ayaw pa
niyang iwan ang bachelor life niya.
Unwanted tears is falling down my cheeks pero agad kong iniwasan ang mga luha ko. I don't
want them to see me crying. Not now. Goodness. Why am I overthinking, overreacting, and so
darn sensitive.
"Oh gash. I can't take this boredom anymore. Marsh you are coming with us whether you like it
or you love it. C'mon, we're going to the mall."
I DON'T need to say no dahil nahila na ako ng dalawa. We're now walking in the mall.
Nakalimutan ko ang phone ko kaya naman hindi ko natext si Kalev na aalis ako sa penthouse.
He'll be mad but I know he'll understand, wala na akong magagawa dahil hindi naman ako
makahindi sa mga pinsan niya.
"Sa grocery store muna tayo. Para malagyan ko ng stocks ang cupboard ni Kalev. Paubos na
kasi ang laman eh." I said. They agreed and nodded and walk towards the grocery store. Medyo
maraming tao and I guess I'm safe here. Kasama ko din naman si Tori and Elizabeth, there's
nothing to worry about. But every steps I make papasok sa grocery store ay hindi ko maiwasang
kabahan.
What was that? I shrugged my shoulders and get a cart, pushing it with my both hands at tsaka
naglakad kasabay si Tori sa meat area.
It's been fifteen minutes at halos libutin na namin ang buong store. Punong-puno na rin ang
cart.
"Marsh, puwede bang dito ka muna? Kukuha lang kami ni Eliza ng panibagong cart.
Punon-puno na kasi yan eh. Wala ng mapaglagyan ang mga chips and cookies na gusto ko." I
smiled at them at sinabing maghihintay ako sa kanila.
Naiwan akong magisa sa fruit section habang tumitingin sa mga fresh apples.
"If it isn't Marsh, the waitress." Tumingin ako kung saan nagmula ang boses na 'yon. It was
Gina, the manager sa bar na Topless Bar dati. She's wearing red fitted dress and a black high
heels. Kahi ang mga labi niya ay kasing pula ng dress niya. What a coincidence. Nandito rin
pala siya pero habang nagsasalita siya ay mararamdaman mo ang talim ng bawat salita.
"Nagustuhan mo na ba ang bago mong buhay sa piling ng boss mo?" She said and laughed
sarcastically. Okay, what is she implying?
"Ahm, hello to you too." I said and smiled sincerely. Since, she's the manager in the bar I need
to respect her.
"But I don't know what you're talking about." Segunda ko.
"After you seduced your boss—"
"I didn't do such thing." Putol ko sa sasabihin niya. Tiningnan niya ako mula ulo hanggang paa
while rolling her eyes. Since when we've been this close to the point that she's talking to me?
Most of the time kapag nagtatrabaho naman ako sa bar ay palagi lang niya akong tinitingnan at
minsan naman ay masama ang tingin sa akin. What's new?
"Marsh." Tawag ni Tori sa likuran ko. Tumingin ako sa likod at pagharap ko sa unahan ay nakita
kong umalis na si Gina bago makabalik sa pwesto ko sila Tori and Eliza.
"Who's that chick?" Sabi ni Tori sa akin. "Manager sa bar ni Kalev." Patango-tango namang
humarap sa akin si Tori. "That's why she looks so familiar."
"She's the girl that Kalev saved seven years ago in an accident." Nabaling ang atenisyon ko sa
sinabi ni Elizabeth. "Yung accident na nangyari that took your parent's life, Marsh."
How did she know?
"I heard my brother Kelvin and Kalev talking about that a year ayo and I keep this for a long
time. Narealize kong ikaw pala ang tinutukoy niyang babaeng mahal na mahal niya pero
nagawan niya ng kasalana simula pa lang ng nasa La Casa tayo. Ibang case pa si Haneah.
Kalev saved her because she almost took her life. She's suicidal and depressed since then but
now, who knows?" I want to ask a lot of questions to Elizabeth but I don't know where to start.
Even Tori is confused as hell.
"Alright people I know you're confused so let me tell you everything I know once we got home.
Are we clear, ladies?" We agreed right away.
But still hindi ko pa rin maiwasan ang manager namin na si Gina. What is her deal?
"HANEAH is the suicidal girl just like I said earlier. Her father is one of the stockholders in
Kalev's company. And one time she decided to kill herself sa mismong building ng kompanya ni
Kalev which is the rooftop. And luckily, nandoon si Kalev sa scene na yun and he saved her.
Nainlove yata agad si Haneah kaya agad naghahabol. May time kasi na kapag ginawan mo ng
maganda ang tao akala ng tao na yun ay may gusto na ito sa'yo. That's her case. Geez. That
man is really very helpful indeed." Pagkwekwento ni Elizabeth sa amin at kami naman dalawa ni
Tori ay parang mga batang nakikinig.
Yes, okay. I get it. Gina is the girl he saved from an accident and Haneah is from depression.
Hindi pa nakakapagsalita muli si Elizabeth ng biglang may tumawag sa phone niya. She
excused herself at lumayo bago sagutin ang phone niya. After a minutes agad siyang bumalik
with a concern look written all over her face.
"Kalev's father is in critical condition. Pinapapunta ako sa hospital ni Nikos. We need to go,
Marsh." Critical? Oh no. Paano kaya nagco-cope up sa sitwasyon si Kalev and of course si Tita
Hillary. Agad akong nakaramdam ng kaba. I hold Elizabeth hand and she looked at me, like
asking me what I want to say.
"I'm coming with you, Elizabeth. Gusto kong puntahan si Kalev doon. I'm sure nasa hospital
siya." I can feel he's lost again. Ganon naman lagi, he's pretending that everything is alright but
when something gets wrong he's back from the start again.
"I'm not sure, but fine." She holds my hand back and squeeze it firmly
Kalev, I hope you're alright. I'm coming for you.
***

[ 54 CHAPTERLII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 52: Reconciliation

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View           I was half running at the hospital's corridor because I'm so
eager to see Kalev. I want to be with him most of the time o kaya naman gusto kong
nararamdaman palagi ang presensiya niya. Hindi ko na kailangan sabihin pa dahil alam kong
pinaglilihian ko siya.
Mula pa sa malayo ay natatanaw ko na siya. Magisang nakaupo habang nakayuko ang ulo.
He's wearing his corporate attire and he seems so lost.
"Hey, Kalev." I said softly. Unti-unting umangat ang ulo niya and his eyes searched mine.
Looking hot as ever. Bigla naman siyang tumayo and in one swift motion, he hugged me tightly.
"You can do this, love. Be strong, this is just a phase." I mumbled. He rested his chin to my
shoulders at nakayakap naman sa bewang ko ang kamay niya. "Do you missed me that much?"
I said with a nervous laugh just trying to lift up the mood.
"I did." Maikli niyang sabi. He looks so restless. I run my fingers to his soft hair and pat him in
his back.
"He's not gonna make it, baby." I run my hand to the thick hank of his hair and patted his back.
Hindi ko alam kung kailangan ko pa bang sabihin ang tungkol sa manager ng bar niya but
judging the situation sa tingin ko ay ipapagpaliban ko muna ito.
"Don't think like that, love. Magiging okay din ang papá mo." Sinuklian lang niya ako ng tipid na
ngiti. Ngiti na minsan ko lang makita sa mga labi niya. He's always grinning and smirking
though. Tinanong niya ako kung anong ginagawa ko sa hospital, but I answered that I'm with
Elizabeth and Tori. Nang nalaman ko ang nangyari sa papa niya ay agad akong sumama sa
kanila. He told me that it isn't necessary to come but I insisted. We talked for hours but later on
we stopped when I saw his mom walking towards us with a beautiful girl besides her.
"Marsh, nandito ka pala." She looks pretty as ever event though there's a dark circle under her
eyes.
"Kuya..." hindi pa ako nakakapagsalita nang magsalita ng malumanay ang babaeng kasama ni
Tita Hillary. She's wearing a jacket and jeans na sinamahan niya ng sneakers. She looks so
simple but stunning on her own way. Kalev stiffened besides.
The tension is in the air. Too much for family drama. I looked at Kalev and smile sincerely at
him. Grab his hand and squeeze it lightly. Encouraging him to talk. Kung hindi niya gagawin 'to,
kailan pa? Based on my assumption, the girl's name must be Rubi.
Nang hindi magsalita si Kalev ay nawala ang ngiti nito sa labi at bumagsak ang kanyang balikat.
"She's Rubi." Pakilala ni Tita Hillary sa akin. I smiled at her at bumaling naman ang atensiyon
niya sa akin at sinuklian din ako ng tipid na ngiti. I pouted my lips a little. Bakit parang
pinagkaitan sila ng ngiti sa labi. Hmp! Anyway, siguro masyado lang silang nasasaktan to think
na nasa operating room ang isa sa mahal nila sa buhay. Maybe they're just too worried to think
about their surroundings.
"Hi! I'm Marsh." Pakilala ko sa aking sarili.
"I know you. You are my brother's girlfriend and I saw you on television too. Lagi ring
namemention ang pangalan mo, Mama just love you so much dahil sa wakas nagkaroon na ng
girlfriend si Kuya Kalev." Mahinang banggit niya sa last part. Nakakataba naman ang puso ang
sinabi niya. There's something in her eyes that I can't explain. Longing? That must be it. She's
longing for her half-brother.  I need to do something. It's now or never.
"Ahmm..." Bigla kong hinawakan ang wrist ni Tita Hillary na agad naman niyang ikinagulat.
"Maiwan muna namin kayong dalawa dito. I promised to Tita Hillary na samahan ko siyang mag
lunch. And I think this is the right time. Maiwan na muna namin kayong dalawa dito." Masigla
kong pahayag. I saw Kalev frowned. Na parang hindi niya nagustuhan ang sinabi ko. But he
must face this now, dahil baka patuloy na lang siyang umiwas.
"Marsh." He said in a cold dangerous voice.
"You're kidding right? You're not going anywhere and you can't leave me here." He grabbed my
wrist pero agad kong tinanggal ang paghawak niya sa akin.
"No. You stay here." I said in a serious voice that I can mustered. Nako naman Kalev! Makinig
ka naman sa akin kahit ngayon lang. Ayaw ko siyang sungitan pero kung patuloy siyang
magiging pusong bato ay hindi ako magdadalawang isip na hindi siya pansinin. Hmp.
Halata ang di pagkagusto sa mukha niya. But I shrugged it away, lightly pull tita Hillary's hand
and leave the two of them.
"Iha, what are you trying to do?" Sabi ni Tita Hillary pero nginitian ko lang siya. "Just trust him,
tita." Is all I managed to say.
Two hours had passed and we decided to go back. Pabalik pa lang kami, I can now see his
face. His face is more relax and not so stiff. From afar, nakita ko din siyang nakatingin and he
mouthed thank you.
My man is really something. Napailing na lang ako.
Days passed and days turns into weeks. I've been very busy. I mean I'm making myself busy.
Wala akong ginawa sa buong week kundi ihatid sundo ang kapatid ko sa school and then stay
at Kalev's penthouse. Umuuwi siya tuwing gabi, exhausted yet he can managed to make love to
me. He's been busy because he's working on another contract. Mas papalakihin pa yata niya
ang sakop ng kompanya niya.
And about his father, he's in coma.
So far, hindi naman ako naglilihi ng kung ano ano. I still prefer Kalev's presence. My mood
swings is tolerable. Despite of busy schedule Kalev is trying his best and made me his priority.
Medyo nahahalata na kasi ang baby bump ko. So far, everything is going smoothly.
Kalev Stanislaski's Point Of View
   I've been through a lot but still I'm thankful to what I have right now because the love of my life
is with me.
But my thoughts are troubled. For her safety and of course to our baby. I even called Nikos na
bantayan si Marsh throughout the day. He's more than willing to help, though. I let my tie loose
and unbutton my polo while looking intently to the girl sleeping unsoundly on the bed. Nakatulog
yata siya habang hinihintay ako. Lumapit ako sakanya and then kissed her forehead while
scanning her face.
Do I deserve her? Her love? Do I deserve to be happy even there's a pain in my heart because
of my father? I loathed him and I thought I'm not capable of falling in love. But here I am now.
Irrevocably in love to the girl named Marsh Lahm. Rubi and I were already talking. I realized that
I missed her and she felt the same way. She didn't blame me for what happened. We talked and
laugh and reminisced good old memories. Thank you Marsh for that.
But there's something is missing. I can't really say that I am happy.
"Hey, nandito ka na pala." A sweet voice said. She kissed my cheeks and wrapped her arms
around my shoulders. Heaven.
"Yeah. Sorry to wake you up, baby." I said, slurred.
"Kumain ka na ba ng dinner mo? You look restless." I caress her hair and give her small kisses.
"I'm fine. Kumain na ako sa opisina bago umalis. Why don't you go back to sleep, sweetheart." I
suggested.
I didn't hear her response dahil bigla na lang tumunog ang mobile phone ko. It was Alexander.
Why is this idiot calling me late at night?
"What do you want?" I said.
"Hello to you too. I just want to inform you that your father already gained his consciousness.
You are welcome." And the call ended right away.
"Are you going out? Punta ka sa hospital?" my stomach churn. I swallowed hard.
"No." I simply said. I hated my father's guts and I didn't want to see him again.
Marsh held my hand tightly. "Hindi mo ba naiisip na eto na ang tamang oras para kausapin ang
papa mo? I'm not on his side, okay? But I think you must hear your father's side first bago ka
gumawa ng panibagong step if you will forgive him or not. I want you to be truly happy, love.
Kasi hindi mo maachieve ang real happiness if there's still something bothering you."
"But I am happy." She pouted her luscious lips at kanina pa ako nagpipigil na halikan siya ng
malalim at madiin.
"Keep saying that to yourself, Kalev." Inis na sabi ng mahal ko bago niya ako hampasin ng unan
at nagtalukbong ng kumunot. I shook my head while chuckling. My baby is so darn cute.
"Hey..." I said trying to pull of the sheets. Pero mas lalo lang humihigpit ang hawak niya.
"Baby." No response. I sighed.
"Fine. I'm going to see him tomorrow." Within a second, natanggal niya agad ang kumunot na
nakatabon sa kanya. I can see hope in her eyes. Geez.
"Really? Really? Really?" I nodded my head.
I'll try.
***

🤢
The End.
Kidding. Ilang chaps na lang matatapos na to. Kahit boring tatapusin ko na talaga 'to.

[ 55 CHAPTERLIII ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 53: what is love?

Kalev Stanislaski's Point of View
"Gusto ka niya makita, anak." My mom automatically said while approaching me. I stopped in
front of my father's hospital room.
"But I don't want to see him." I said without bluffing but someone hissed behind my back. Geez,
man. I forgot, there's a minion behind me. Ready to cut my neck if I turn my heels and started to
walk away. My woman is really feisty. Feisty as fuck but hot as hell. I know she's behaving like
that because of her hormones. Either way, I love everything about her. Yumuko ako hanggang
sa maabot ko ang mukha niya. Perks of being tall. Ako ang mag aadjust maabot ko lang ang
minion na 'to. I'm calling her minion because she keeps on watching that movie while caressing
her baby bump. How many times did she watch it. Five? Seven? I don't know. I lost count. To tell
you the fact that she's wearing a jumper and a yellow shirt underneath. I face palmed.
"Calm down, my little minion. I'm going." Bulong ka sa tenga niya and I can literally feel her
freeze from her position. I chuckled lightly. Ang bilis magtayuan ng balahibo niya. And my husky
sound of my voice can easily aroused her. We're on the same boat.
Huminga ako ng malalim and put my hands to the doorknob but I stop.
I can't do this.
I thought I can but I don't. I hate him for treating my mother like that. He failed as a father. He
failed as a husband. I act like it doesn't matter, but it does. He made me like this. Cruel, selfish,
untamable son of a bitch. If for no other reason, I would never forgive him. Kung hindi lang sa
babaeng nasa tabi ko, hindi ako pupunta dito.
"Ano ba Kalev Stanislaski? Bubuksan mo ba yang pinto o ako pa ang magbubukas para sa'yo?"
An irritated voice said. I looked at her. When did she started being grumpy? That's at first.
Maybe because she's been hanging with Tori lately. That girl always seeks for trouble. I tsk-ed.
She grabbed my shoulders and pinned me to the nearest wall and even my mom is so shocked
in the corner.
"Don't let your inner self defeat you, Kalev. You must face this now, kung hindi ngayon kelan mo
pa ba babalakin? Alam kong natatakot ka, pero normal lang na maramdam mo 'yun. Because
you're going to face your past. We all have the ability to feel. Stop pretending that everything is
going okay kung in the first place wala kang gagawin para maging maayos ang lahat. Alam ko
din na kapag makikita mo ang ama mo, it's like opening an old wound, but you need to control
yourself. Try not to be impulsive. Think before you act. You are rational human being, Kalev.
Just like what I've said. Talk to him first, before you decide if you're going to forgive him or not.
Pero hindi mo naman kailangan matakot. Nandito ako sa'yo. I'm with you, I'm not going to leave
you. That's a promise." She said while holding both of my hands. Squeezing it lightly.
Soothing me with her soft voice just like listening to a piano piece. My nerves calmed down. My
organs that almost forgot it's place come back from it's original position.
"I'm going in, but you must come with me."
Marsh Lahm's Point of View
The presidential suite is huge. The room is awfully quiet with the smell of some chemicals.
There's a man lying down on the bed. Fine looking handsome old man. Weak and debilitated.
Ang daming makina na nakakabit sa kanya. Particularly sa may upper part.
He's old with white hairs yet intimidating. It's like I'm looking to the old version of Kalev.
Ang higpit higpit ng hawak ni Kalev at bawat labag pa sa kalooban niya ang bawat hakbamg
niya papasok. Kung hindi lang talaga pumayag ang nanay niya ay hindi ako sasama sa loob.
Because it's a family matter. Pero heto ako ngayon.
"My—son." Hirap niyang sabi still lying down. Looking at his son, and his gaze diverted to me.
Magsasalita pa sana ito pero agad nagsalita si Kalev.
"She's with me and won't go anywhere without me. You want to talk to me? Okay, but she's
staying." There's a tension in the air.  Ako lang ba nakakaramdam non?
"Sit down."
"That's unnecessary. Aalis din kami agad. We won't stay long." Hindi ko tuloy mapigilan ang
sarili and pinch his side. He winced at tumingin sa akin, asking.
"Wag ka ngang magsungit dyan? And listen to your dad once and for all. Paano kayo
magkakaintindihan kung sarado ang tenga mo para makinig? You're old enough to act like a
child, Kalev." Argh. Kung bakit ba naman lahat sinusungitan ng lalaki na 'to. Wala talagang
sinasanto. Tikom ang bibig, bigla siyang sumimangot.
"The first thing you do is to sit down and listen." Sambit ko.
"Fine." Padabog na sabi niya at naupo sa sofa na katabi lang ng kama ng tatay niya. I looked at
Mr. Stanislaski, I mean Kalev's father at doon ko lang nakita na nakatingin pala siya sa akin.
Uh-oh. I don't know what to do kaya ginawa ko na lang ang unang pumasok sa isip kundi
yumuko ng kaunti and mouthed sorry bago sumunod kay Kalev sa pagkaupo.
"I'm sorry, son. I've been wrong." He said.
"One sorry won't take every pain away." Kalev said harshly.
"I'm aware to all of my actions, Kalev. Siguro nagtataka ka why I'm not faithful and loyal
husband. It's because I'm searching for love. Hinahanap ko ito sa iba't ibang babae and I can't
see myself loving your mother Kalev. I'm sorry but we marry each other because of our parent's
decision." Kahit hirap magsalita ay pinipilit niya ang sarili niya. Kalev remains speechless. Even
me.
"That's right. To continue our dynasty and to become one of the most powerful all over the
country. We must maintain the power and authority to rule the business world. Kaya nagpakasal
kaming dalawa ng mamá mo, Kalev. We married for convenience and out of love. I tried to love
her but love is something na hindi pinipilit. I thought when you're born matutunan ko ng mahalin
ang mamá mo but I failed miserably. That's why I let other women filled the love that I want to
feel. I become selfish. Something is missing in my life even if I have wealth, family, everything.
I'm still not contented, but remember this no one is ever satisfied where he is. Your mamá is
aware of what I'm doing, son. She's aware. Until I met Sarah, the twin's mother. Doon ko lang
naramdaman ang pagmamahal na hindi ko naramdaman sa mamá mo Kalev. But she died. And
she brought my heart with her. She solely owns it and now I have nothing left with me but Rubi.
You start rebelling and your mom accepted the twin wholeheartedly. I'm so thankful to have her
yet I can't give her my heart for which I gave it already to Sarah. I want to talk to you to sort all of
the misunderstandings between us."
"You're searching for your love and forgot your responsibilities to us. How can you do this to
mom? How dare you—" Kalev is mad. But he keep his composure.
"I tried, Kalev. I tried. And I love you as my son. And I'm so proud to you right now because you
grew up so well."
Biglang tumayo si Kalev and his hands is clenched into fist.
"I'm sorry if I didn't meet your expectations as a father. And I'm sorry if I tried talking to you now.
Matagal na kitang gustong makausap but I failed again because I'm a coward. I can't face my
son. Mas inuna ko kasi ang sarili ko kesa sainyo that's why I didn't dare to talk to you. Maybe
they are right, lalakas lang ang loob mo magsalita kapag malapit ka ng mamatay." He let out a
bitter laugh.
Pinagmasdan ko si Kalev mula sa kanyang likuran. He's shaking.
"Don't worry old man. You are strong. You still have many years to live." Tumawa naman ang
matanda habang umiiling.
"Thank you for listening to me, Kalev. For I will always be grateful to your mother." Tumango si
Kalev at hinawakan ang kamay ko.
"Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We are going now." With a grin hinila na niya ako pero
nang magtama ang paningin namin ni Mr. Stanislaski ay may sinabi pa ito.
"I like you for my son."
"Thank you Sir." I said. At tuluyan ng lumabas sa presidential suite. Sinalubong kami ni Tita
Hillary with her worried look.
"How was it?" Tanong niya ng malumanay.
"He explained." Maikling sabi ni Kalev. He's like that. Kung kaya niyang paikliin ang sasabihin
niya ay gagawin niya ito.
"I'm sorry Kalev kung tinago ko 'to. Nagpakasal kaming dalawa dahil sa kagustuhan ng mga
magulang namin. You're now in the right age to know everything about us. Please forgive us for
being imperfect."
"If you knew all along, why don't you leave him? And bring me with you? Why did you decided to
stay?" He asked out of curiosity.
She smiled at us and her eyes were dreamy.
"Because I love your Dad, Kalev. And I love you. I want to give you a complete family." Straight
but concise.
"Even if it's hurting you?"
"It doesn't matter if it's hurting me. But what is love if it's not painful?" With a smile, niyakap ni
Kalev ang mama niya. "You're so strong Mom. Marsh and I must go now. Babalik na lang ako
dito to see you and dad." He kissed his mother on the cheeks at agad naman akong nagpaalam
sa kanya bago sinundan si Kalev na tahimik naglalakad patungo sa parking lot.
Umupo ako sa passenger seat at siya naman sa driver's seat pero bago ko pa mailagay ang
seat belt ko ay agad kong niyakap ni Kalev ng mahigpit.
"I love you Marsh and I'm going to love you and our baby unconditionally." He sobbed. Is
he...crying?
"I thought I would never understand Dad. But I do, now. Even if it's messed up. You're still with
me." I hugged him back.
"You did great there, love. And I'm so proud of you for listening to him." Cupping both of his
cheeks, I wiped the tears down to his face na alam kong kanina pa niya pinipigilan. I kissed him
on his lips na agad naman niyang tinugon.
* * * Mz's Note: So mageexplain lang po akoooo.
• Galit  si Kalev sa father niya because of his unfaithfulness to his mother. We have this notion
na kapag hindi kompleto ang pamilya or there's something happening within a family may
malaking impact yun sa isang bata or doon sa anak. Example na yun ay rebellion. Tulad ng
ginagawa ni Kalev. He's rebellious with his father that's why he don't want to talk to his own
father.
• Hindi pinipilit ang LOVE. Kaya kahit nasayo na ang lahat kayaman, karangyaan, and all pero
kung hindi ka masaya wala lang din yan ang lahat. Kaya yung happiness na hindi mo
maramdaman sa taong nasa atin  we have this attitude na hanapin pa ito sa iba para masatisfy
lang tayo. Eto yung problema ng father ni Kalev. He isn't satisfied. He isn't happy. Kaya hinanap
niya sa ibang babae ang pagmamahal at kasiyahan niya.
• Sa society naman natin, nangyayari talaga ang arranged marriage. Dito kasi yung para
ipagpatuloy yung nasimulan ng mga ancestors natin o kaya naman para hindi mawala yung
nabuo na "pangalan" sa lipunan. Mostly, mga politicians or mamayaman na tao ang gumagawa
nito. Hindi lang ito mababaw na dahilan na pinagkasundo ng magulang dahil magbestfriend ang
magulang nila ang such. Sa story na 'to may prine-preserve na tradition ang pamilyang
Stanislaksi. To remain on top. At mas lalo pang lalakas ang surname na yun kapag may
nangyaring merging.
• May iba't iba kasi tayong perception about the word LOVE and HAPPINESS at kung paano ito
makikita at pagdating naman sa perception ni Hillary Stanislaski yung love sa kanya ay hindi
niya iiwan ang taong mga mahal niya. Concerned siya na mabuo ang pamilya niya dahil ang
nga Pilipino ay may culture na strong family ties. Kaya importante ang pamilya sakanya na
mabuo ito.

😭
THANK YOU FOR ALL THE COMMENTS. YOU MOTIVATE ME TO WRITE ANOTHER
CHAPTER. Kapag talaga nababasa ko comments niyo hindi ko maiwasan maging thankful
dahil may nagbabas ang work ko kaya minsan napapabilis ang update ko.

[ 56 CHAPTERLIV ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 54: Outraged

Marsh Lahm's Point Of View
Kalev made sure that I slept in the next day by keeping me comfortable. Nagising ako an hour
later where variety of foods is served on the table.  May mga oras kasi na nagigising ako in the
middle of the night asking for food. I saw Kalev on the sofa, drinking an orange juice while
reading a book. I reached for a croissants.
"What time is it?" I asked. "1 in the morning, baby." He let a soft voice. Tumayo siya at tsaka
umupo sa tabi ko. Leaving the book behind. I expected his bare skin to be cool because of the
air conditioning. Instead it was warm, almost hot. We sat in silence and continue eating.
He rolled into my side, at agad naman sumiksik sa akin.
"Tired?"
"No, you?"
"Fine." He said at tsaka yumakap sa may bewang ko. I moved my fingers to his chest...which
was cool.
Nang makaramdam na ako ng busog ay agad ako nakaramdam ng antok and so I did.
Nagising ako mula sa sinag ng araw na tumatama sa mukha ko but I'm too lazy to open my
eyes and move. I can feel Kalev pushed himself out of the bed, snarling a yawn. He kissed my
forehead and feel him walked away.
        "TAKE CARE, will you?"
     "I will. See you later, baby."
     "Bye."
He said giving me a kiss goodbye. Finally, bumangon na rin ako mula sa pagkahiga at nakita
siyang bihis na. Wearing his usual corporate attire. Pupunta siya sa Topless Bar telling me na
nagkaroon ng problema. Agad naman tumawag ang manager sakanya and he's going there to
overlook the problem. I can feel something is off pero hindi ko na lang pinansin 'yun.
Pumasok ako sa loob at wala pang ilang minuto ng biglang tumunog ang door bell.
May nakalimutan ba siya? If it's Kalev he doesn't need to press the door bell button dahil alam
niya ang password. Nagtataka akong pumunta sa main door pero naririnig ko na ang boses ni
Tori.
"You don't need to press the door bell button you idiot." said Tori, sounding thoroughly
exasperated.
"Para aware si Marsh na nandito tayo. And don't call me idiot because you are." Nikos said
sounding like a funny man rather than irritated.
"Para kayong aso't pusa. Stop acting like a kiddo and grow up." Sabi ni Elizabeth at pumasok
siya sa loob. Removing her shoes at nagsuot ng slippers. She removed her jacket at sinabit sa
rack.
"Hi, Marsh." She beamed. "Pizza?" As she raised her both hands at mayroon ngang dalawang
kahin na pizza. Doon ko lang din napansin na may mga brown bags na hawak si Tori and Nikos.
"Hey." Bati ko sa kanila.
"Woah. Pregnancy suits you." I laughed and made a face. "Getting bigger by the hour."
"Sakto, I'm craving for pizzas." I said at biglang kumalam ang tyan ko.
"Yeah. Kalev mentioned it to us. Kaso mukhang busy ang hari kaya kami na lang ang pumunta
dito for you. And then this gentledog besides me has nothing to do kaya sumama sa amin. The
extra." She said rolling her eyes at Nikos. Natawa na lang ako sa sinabi ni Tori. I remembered
that she's got mad when Nikos blackmailed her and asked my whereabouts. Though, wala
namang kaso sa akin 'yun. They helped me. At malaki ang utang na loob ko sa kanila.
"Gentledog? Are you kidding me? Listen here witch, give me a damn break." But Tori sticked her
tongue out to Nikos and he do the same. Kids. Pasimple akong ngumiti.
"Stop bickering and let's party! Shall we?" We all agreed.
Tinulungan ko silang dalhin ang mga brown bags sa kusina. It's full of junk foods and soft drinks.
I wonder if I can eat some...
There's bottle of beers and milk.
"Oopps. Sorry Marsh. The beer is ours and the milk is yours." Tori said apologetically. "You don't
need to say sorry, Tori." Because there's already a life living inside me, dapat balance and
healthy foods ang kakainin ko.
"Anyway, anong movies ang gusto niyo? Horror? Romance? R20?" Tanong ni Nikos at pinakita
sa amin ang dala niyang hard drive.
"Horror is fine with me." I said.
"Alright. Horror movie it is."
WE STAYED at the living room. And we decided na The Shining na lang ang panoorin namin.
All the food is placed on the table at ako naman ay nakaupo sa mahabang sofa. Nikos is sitting
on the carpet and across him is where Tori is sitting. Nasa cushion naman si Eliza. We stayed
quiet, lahat ay tutok sa movie.
The whole movie is satisfying yet Tori isn't satisfied at all. She's mumbling something like: "Iba
naman ang nangyari sa book. Argh. This isn't what I'm expecting. So disappointing." Nikos on
the other hand answered back.
"What do you want for lunch?" Malapit na din kasi maglunch, might as well cook for them.
"Chicken curry." Nikos said. Dumiretso ako sa kusina at inihanda ang mga gagamitin ko sa
pagluto.
"I really wonder why Kalev didn't bother to ask your hands for marriage." Iling na pahayag ni
Tori. Napasimangot tuloy ako. Bumalik na naman ulit ang nga negative thoughts na pinipilit ko
ang sarili ko na hindi pansinin. I heard Nikos faked a cough and the tension in the air is
becoming thick.
I don't know, maybe because he can't see me as his wife? Or Kalev doesn't have any plan at all.
Accidentally, bigla kong nahulog ang kutsilyo na hawak ko. Nataranta akong pulotin ito. I'm
feeling down right now. Sa madaling salita, mabilis akong magdamdam.
Siniko ni Eliza si Tori. And then whispered, "Pregnant woman tends to be sensitive." I pretended
I didn't heard that one.
I rather have jumped off the tower than admit it to her that I'm becoming more and more
sensitive day by day.
Tori flushed an innocent look. "What? What have I done? Sinasabi ko lang naman eeh. Hmp."
Nikos faked a cough again.
Bumaling ang tingin ni Tori kay Nikos.
"Do you want a medicine for cough?" Naiirita na sabi ni Tori. He just shrugged his shoulders.
"What's wrong with you all? Ang iinit ng ulo niyo." Sambit ni Elize at tsaka umupo sa dining
chair.
"Stop talking about marriage thingy again, Tori. Please be considerate." Nakasimangot na
umupo si Tori. "Fine. I'm just asking because I'm curious." Ipinikit ko muna ang mga mata ko
bago ako huminga ng malalim. Ibinagsak ko ang hawak kong kutsilyo sa chopping board. I can
sense that they are shocked by my actions.
"Marsh? You okay?"
"I'm the one who'll be asking his hands for marriage." Isang mahabang katahimikan ang nanaig
sa aming apat. Kahit ako ay nagulat sa sinabi ko.
"Excellent! That's my girl." Sabi ni Tori, clasping both of her hands at napalaki ng ngiti niya.
"If that's what you want, Marsh. Support ka namin." Said Elizabeth, approvingly.
Well, let's break some stereotypes shall we? Hindi lang naman puwede ang lalaki ang mag
initiate ng proposal, right? Pero hindi ko alam ang gagawin ko. Bakit kasi bigla bigla ko na lang
nasabi yun. It's just that ayoko ng maging malungkot sa tuwing naiisip ko kung bakit hindi pa rin
niya ako tinatanong ng kasal. It's not like we're waiting for something.
Lumapit sa akin si Tori at niyakap niya ako ng mahigpit. She literally squealed.
Another faked cough coming from Nikos.
"You really need a medication, Nik." Said Tori, rolling her eyes. "So any plans? Sheez. I'm so
excited for you, girl. So kelan mo siya balak isurprise? What do you want to do? Tell us and
we're going to help you."
"Today. I won't waste any time." Hindi ba ako nabibigla sa sinabi ko? It's marriage we're talking
about. But if you really love a person, why don't you go for it?
May savings naman ako to buy a ring for him. Siguro yun na lang ang gagamitin ko.
"Alright. Gusto kong bumili ng singsing at tsaka pupuntahan ko si Kalev sa Topless Bar and ask
him to marry me."
"I know someone who sells first class jewelries." Sabi ni Elize. Tumango ako acknowledging her
suggestion. "And I want to buy cake too."
WE EAT OUR lunch first before setting our feet outside. Isang kotse na lang ang ginamit namin
papuntang The Trewlawney ang pangalan ng jewelry shop na pupuntahan namin. Nikos is the
one who's maneuvering the car and Tori sat on the passenger seat. Magkatabi naman kaming
dalawa ni Eliza sa back seat.
Tumagal ang byahe ng isa at kalahating oras. But it's worth it. Nang makarating kami sa
pupuntahan namin ay nagulat ako kung gaano ito kalaki at kaganda.
The price of the jewelries is no joke yet sa tingin ko naman ay aabot ito sa budget ko.
"Good afternoon Ma'am, Sir. What are you looking for," asked by a girl which I assumed is
working here.
"Engagement ring for a man." Maikling sabi ko, still appreciating the interior of the said store.
May isang malaking lounge for visitors at doon puwedeng tumingin for the magazines na gusto
mong design. The light is almost brown, since yung mga bagay sa loob ay may pagkakulay
brown, nagrereflect ang kulay ng mga furnitures sa ilaw. Naupo sila Tori sa lounge area and
they let me decide what ring to choose.
"For a man!?" Gulat nitong tanong.
"Yes. May problema ba doon?" Making my voice casual. Blushing crimson and beaming at her.
"Sorry Ma'am. Wala naman pong problema. Nagulat lang ako dahil this scenario is peculiar."
She said, bowing a little at iginaya kami kung saan ang pwesto ng mga engagement rings.
She showed us a lot of designs pero wala akong mapili.
"Ahm." I scraped my nape. Lahat naman magaganda at kahit ang price maganda din but I
choose the most simplest one. Simple yet cost reasonable.
"The secret lotus ring." She said at kinuha nito ang box ng ring sa loob ng glass at pinakita sa
akin ng mas malapit. I hope Kalev will love this ring.
"Come again?" I asked.
"The name of the ring is the secret lotus, Ma'am."
"Ohh." I said. Nang mapansin ko na may maliit na lotus design na nakaukit sa may loob ng ring.
"I'll buy it." I said at wala ng sinayang na oras.
"Cash or credit card, Ma'am?"
"Cash." She smiled at me. Asking for my payment and agad ko namang binigay ang bayad.
"Please wait a minute." Sabi niya tsaka tumalikod.
Ako naman ay bumalik kung saan nakapwesto sila Tori. They are reading the magazines while
Nikos is playing to his phone.
"So how is it? Nakapili ka na ba?" Asked Tori while putting the magazine down the table.
"Yes. Inaasikaso na nila." I said at tsaka umupo sa sofa.
"I can't wait to see Kalev's epic face." Mumbled by Nikos who overcome his coughing problems.
Ilang minuto pa ay dumating na rin ang babae na nag assist sa akin. Binigay niya ang resibo at
tsaka inabot ang paper na bag kung saan nakalagay ang singsing.
"Thank you for coming to The Trelawney. Come again."
Lumabas kami sa glass door at dumiretso kung sana naka park ang kotse ni Nikos.
"Last stop sa pastry shop at tsaka diretso na tayo sa Topless Bar." Sabi ko at umupo muli sa
back seat ng kotse.
I waited for almost thirty minutes bago kami makakita ng pastry shop. Bought a vanilla cake with
strawberries on top. We stayed inside the shop for almost one hour dahil nagorder pa sila ng
slices ng cake and coffee.
"Let's go. Sayang ang oras." Sabi ni Tori. Hindi ko alam kung sana na kami nakarating pero
alam kong medyo malayo pa ang byahe papuntang Topless Bar at habang papalapit ng
papalapit ang direksiyon na aming tinatahak ay palakas ng palakas ang tibok ng puso ko.
Confirmed. Kinakabahan ako. It's not out of excitement. It's like I'm worried for something na
hindi ko alam kung bakit. Nakailang beses na rin akong uminom ng tubig sa water bottle. My
hands were kinda shaking and it's sweaty.
"Marsh, you okay? You look like you're going to be sick." Sabi ni Eliza sa tabi ko. 
"No, just nervous." I said honestly.
Ipinikit ko muna ang mga mata ko ko at tsaka sumandal just to relax my body.
At hindi ko namalayan ang oras ng tumigil na ang kotse sa may entrance ng bar. I opened the
door for myself at tsaka bumaba. Hawak ko ang paper bag kung saan nakalagay ang singsing
at tsaka ang box ng cake.
Pumasok kami sa loob, mabibilang lang ang taong nasa loob ng bar. "Hmm. I really love the
smell of alcohol." Muttered by Tori.
Wonder if Janine is here. Siguro ay babatiin ko ito kung makita ko man siya. I miss her and I
miss working here.
Lumapit si Nikos sa isang bouncer at tinanong kung nasaan si Kalev.
"Where's your boss?" The funny Nikos is gone, napaltan ito ng seryosong aura. Err. He can
swift from funny to serious guy in a matter of second.
"Nasa office po niya Sir Nikos. Hindi pa po namin nakikitang bumaba." Automatically, napatingin
ako sa hagdanan kung saan ang daan patungo sa office niya. Though, nakapunta na ako doon
ng isang beses and we did something...playful.
"Marsh, let's go. What are you waiting for?" Bigla tuloy akong natauhan. Ano ba kasi ang iniisip
ko. I walked towards them at sumunod sa kanila pataas. And every steps I make parang ang
bigat bigat ng paa ko. It's like I'm pulling hollow blocks using my feet. Hindi naman mainit sa
loob but I'm sweating bullets right now.
"Ano bang nakita mo sa babae na yun? Mas nauna naman kitang nakilala ah? Hindi ko alam na
siya pala ang tipo ng mga babae mo. Tell me, are you just using her? Ako ang gusto mo diba?
Diba? Look at my body, I'm better than her." Napatigil kaming apat sa paglalakad ng marinig
namin ang tili ng isang babae na nangagaling sa office ni Kalev. I know that voice. It came from
the voice of our manager—Gina!
"Kalev! I'm always here for you! Mangaagaw ang babae na yun and she's going to pay
everything. Papatayin ko siya! Swerte lang ang babae na yun dahil nakaligtas siya ng tatlong
beses. Sisiguraduhin kong sa susunod na gagawin ko ay mawawala na siya ng tuloyan. Kung
hindi ka rin naman mapupunta sa akin, hindi rin sa kanya." And she let out a manic laugh. My
blood rushes to my cheeks. My whole body is shaking from anger.
"Here's an idea." Rinig ko ang kalmadong boses ni Kalev. "Shut your m—" hindi na niya natapos
ang sasabihin niya ng bigla na lang akong pumasok sa loob at padabog binuksan ang pinto.
Biglang napatayo si Kalev sa swivel chair niya. Gone the calm aura. "M-marsh. What are you
doing here?" Hindi makapaniwalang sambit niya. Handsome as ever. Ang lakas ng charisma
and he looks so lovely when he's shocked. Pero indi ko siya pinansin at tumingin sa babaeng
hubo't hubad sa may harapan ni Kalev. Ten feet away from Kalev. Lalong namula ang pisnge ko
and have the urge to kill the bitch in front of me. Mas nanaig ang galit ko sa babaeng ito.
"I'm going to kill you first before you could ever touch me." Sambit ko at tsaka nilapitan ko siya.
Kahit siguro siya nagulat dahil bigla na lang akong pumasok sa loob ng opisina ni Kalev. Isang
malakas na suntok ang tumama sa mukha niya and I could feel my knuckles is hurting too. Bigla
itong na out of balance kaya bigla itong napaupo sa sahig.
"Marsh!" They said in chorus. Hindi ko sila pinansin dahil mas nakatuon ang atensiyon ko sa
babaeng nakasalampak sa sahig. Bringing chaos inside Kalev's office.
Instead of slapping her, I punched her straight to her face. I'm not forgiving as of this moment.
This lady must pay. Siya pala ang mastermind why I'm in danger. Hah! Karma is a bitch.
"That's for trying to kill me! How dare you to show your naked body in front of my husband. Dahil
kahit magkaroon ka ng dalawang p*sSy hinding hindi ka papatulan niyan." May diin na sabi ko.
My knuckles is hurting dahil ang tigas tigas ng mukha niya.
"Husband?" Tinapunan ko ng tingin si Kalev na nakatayo lang sa may table niya. Bewildered. I
glared at him. "Yes. You're my husband and no one can take you away from me. Not even this
bitch!" Naiirita na sabi ko. My body is still shaking from anger. Lumayo ako kay Gina na hawak
ang pisnge kung saan ko siya sinuntok at tsaka kinuha ang paper bag na nabitawan ko sa may
pito.
"Open this." Naiinis kong sabi ko. Nafru-frustrate ako sa nangyayari. Hindi ito ang inaasahan
kong gagawin sa proposal. This must be romantic! But the presence of Gina made the
atmosphere like hell. But I'm still not done with her. Now she's back on her feet.
"Baby, is this for me?" I faced Kalev again with a frown. He's grinning from ear to ear.
"Ibibigay ko ba yan sayo kung hindi para sayo yan? Argh." I stamped my feet. "Now do me a
favor and say yes. I forbid you to say no." He put the ring in his ring finger and smiled at me,
kissed me on my lips. "Of course I will say yes." He murmured between our kisses.
"Pagbabayaran mo to, Marsh!" Hindi ko siya pinansin dahil mas naging mapusok ang halik ni
Kalev sa akin. Giving me wet kisses. I can feel Gina is approaching me pero wala kaming
pakialam ni Kalev dahil mas nakafocus kami sa isa't isa. God I love this man.
"Now, face me here you damn little demon." Galit na sabi ni Tori as she make her way inside the
office. "I'm going to put you behind bars. You bloody psychopath!" I can't see what she's doing
to Gina but both of them is screaming. Napasandal na lang ako sa dibdib ni Kalev ng
makaramdam ako ng pagod. I didn't expect the turn out of events. Everything is so messed up.
"I'll explain everything to you later, honey. Okay? I love you Marsh."
You better be. You better be.

😅
***
Mz's Note: Hindi po ako sure, pero feeling ko EPILOGUE na ang sunod.

[ 57 CHAPTERLV ]
-------------------------------

Chapter 55: The power of obsessive love

Marsh Lahm's Point of View
      Don't underestimate the power of obsessive love. There were times that you are willing to do
everything to the person you love and being possessive at the same time. It isn't sweet. It is a
destruction that one must avoid. Obsessive love keeps at bay underlying emotions; this includes
grief, loneliness, anxiety, anger and emptiness. Nakakalungkot lang isipin na kaya mong sirain
ang sarili mo dahil sa isang tao.
  "Hey, you okay?" Napaangat ang ulo ko just to see Kalev towering me with his height...again.
Inabutan niya ako ng maiinom bago umupo sa tabi ko. We are here in the police station. After
the incident inside the office, kaya naman pala missing in action si Elizabeth and Nikos because
they call for the police. I won't stand back now. She must pay for all the consequences of her
actions. Being less nice isn't bad at all.
"And if you're wondering why I didn't do anything to her when she started undressing herself, I
need her to confess all her doings before putting her behind bars." Kalev said while holding my
hand. Nakita ko ang singsing na binigay ko sa kanya. Talagang suot na niya ito and it fits to his
finger perfectly.
"And I know you'll get mad at me if—" huminga muna siya ng malalim bago magsalita muli.
"If?" I asked.
"If I killed her and put the law in my own hand." I gaped at him, mouth opened.
"Bago ka pumasok, I'm already playing the gun using my right hand. I'm ready to shoot her.
Well thanks to you baby, I didn't. I'd been tempted to grab my gun and point at her aimlessly."
Kumunot bigla ang noo ko.
"Ano ka ba? Hindi mo kailangan gawin yun. At paano mo nalaman na si Gina ang may gawa ng
lahat? All the threats and all?" I asked out of the blue.
"After the car incident? The car that almost hits you?" Tumango naman ako. Yun yung mga
panahon na hinatid ko si Marco sa school niya.
"Yes, I remembered."
 "I asked Nikos if he could checked the plate number and the rest is history. All we need is
evidence to sue her. Hindi ko inaasahan na pupunta siya sa office ko and start blabbing about
her shits. She made her own downfall. Ayokong nasasaktan ka ng ibang tao lalo na at
magkakaanak na tayo." He worked his lips and gripped the cup of coffee lightly. My face heated
up.
"I can't afford to lose you. I just love you so much that's why." He rubbed his nose and looked
away from me. At dahil doon, I saw how his ears reddened. Such a cutie.
"You're always calm and collected. Minsan lang kitang makitang magalit." Sabi ko naman sa
kanya at tsaka sumandal sa balikat niya.
"It's a waste of energy if I overacts." He said. Napailing na lang ako sa sinabi niya. Siguro,
matagal pa lang ay sinanay na niya ang sarili niya na hindi magpakita ng emotions. Well, he did
great. Geez. Bigla na lang pumasok sa isip ko si Gina and the proposal. I rubbed my temples
using my fingers.
"Are you tired?" Agad niyang tanong sa akin.
"I guess." Everything is stressing me out.
"Mister Stanislaski?" Sabay kaming tumingin sa police officer na tumawag sa pangalan ni
Kalev.
"Kailangan po namin ng signature mo bago po kayo umalis dito sa presinto." Tumayo kaming
dalawa at tsaka sumunod sa police officer papuntang working station niya. Nakita ko agad si
Nikos na may kausap na isang police officer.
When he saw us, bigla siyang nagpaalam sa kausap niya at tsaka lumapit sa aming dalawa ni
Kalev.
"I made sure that she won't get away from this and she can't get a lawyer." Nagulat ako sa
sinabi ni Nikos kay Kalev. But she has the right to have a lawyer, right? Nikos didn't seem to be
affected at all. Napakaseryoso niya ngayon, gone the smiling Nikos. All I can say is they are
really serious to their line of work and seems to be ruthless.
"And they need your signature. My work here is done. Sasamahan ko na sila Tori sa labas."
Tumango naman si Kalev. Nikos smiled at me and tap my shoulders lightly.
Maglalakad na sana si Kalev pero pinigilan ko siya.
"Isn't it too much?" Umibig lang naman siya sa maling tao at sa maling panahon and for sure
she deserves to be happy. All of us deserves to be happy.
"It's her right to have a lawyer. Pero—"
"No buts Marsh. Let me do all the work, okay? Hindi ako mapapanatag kung laging ko maiisip
na may maaring masamang mangyari sayo because of that girl. Trust me on this." I sighed.
"Alright..." I surrendered.
True to his words, he do all the works. All the paper to signs and everything. At kahit ng
lumabas kami sa presinto ay hindi ko na muling nakita si Gina.
"That woman is crazy." Tori said while opening the car door.
"Can you give it a rest? Nakakulong na 'yung tao." Sabi naman ni Nikos.
"She deserves it!"
Here we go, they're bickering over and over again.
"Can you do us a favor and keep your mouth shut? Marsh and I will go home now. It's up to you
if you're going or not." Hinawakan ni Kalev ang kamay ko and pulled me a little to his side.
"Bye. Thank you so much." I said. Bowing my head a little.
"You are very much welcome, Marsh. Take care." I waved my hand as we turned our back at
sumakay sa kotse ni Kalev.
"Do you want to have dinner first bago tayo umuwi?" asked Kalev. I toyed with the neck of my
long-sleeved sweater and eyed him in the driver's seat.
"Sure. Para magpapahinga na lang tayo paguwi natin." I said.
We stepped inside the Greek Restaurant. The greek restaurant advertised the most delicious
steaks in the world. Too much for the decorations, everything is well-organized and the staffs
are well-groomed. I was impressed by the atmosphere it gives to its customer as well as the
smell of the food.
"Table for two, Ma'am, Sir."   As one staff strode toward us.
"Yes please." I answered dahil mukhang walang balak magsalita ang kasama ko ngayon. Hmp.
"This way. Please follow me."
We sat right in the middle. There's number of people eating inside pero hindi naman mukhang
crowded ang buong lugar. A good-looking, brown-haired waiter arrived and place a glass of
water in our table.
"May I know your order." I placed my elbow to the table before answering. Tumingin muna ako
sa mga siniserve nilang dishes. Bakit ang hirap namang bigkasin ng mga ito?
"Gyros and pastitsio for me." I said. Dahil yun lang ang madaling bigkasin. Hmp.
"Two order of gyros, pastitsio, and steak. One bottle of red wine." Kalev said without looking at
the waiter. The waiter smiled and turned his heels.
"I don't like the way he's looking at you." ­Napakunot naman ang nuo ko dahil sa sinabi niya.
"Who? The waiter?"­ I asked while laughing a little. Don't tell me he's being jealous again? His
forehead wrinkling as he narrowed his eyes at me.
"His smile grew warmer while staring at you. I am a man Marsh. I know what he's thinking. I am
a guy!" He stared into my eyes at bumaba ag tingin niya sa labi ko pero agad naman bumalik
ang tingin niya sa mga mata ko.
"You found this amusing, don't you think?" I laughed. May ilang tao ang napatingin sa pwesto
naming dalawa but I continued laughing.
"You are so cute, Kalev. Hindi ko akalain na para kang magiging bata. Relax, okay? So what if
he's looking at me? So what if he's smiling from ear to ear while staring at me? I don't care. I'm
with the best man in the whole world and I am proud of it." Tumayo ako sa pagkaupo at tsaka
lumapit sa pwesto niya giving him a quick kiss on his lips. Bago bumalik sa pwesto ko kanina
which is sa tapat niya.
"Dapat ako nga ang mangamba dahil halos lahat ng kababaihan dito ay sayo nakatingin." I
frowned. Hindi ba niya napapansin na papasok pa lang naming sa loob ng resto ay nakatingin
na agad sa kanya ang ibang tao. Kahit saan kami pumunta ay si Kalev palagi ang center of
attention.
"Really?" Sabi niya habang nagkibit balikat. "I don't know. Hindi ko sila napapansin because
throughout the time sayo lang ako nakatingin. To hell with them." Magsasalita pa sana ako but a
waitress passed pushing a cart of laden with various desserts. My mouth watered as my
stomach grumbled.
"Can I have that?" I asked and spotted a dessert, the strawberry shortcake.
"Of course, Ma'am." kumuha ako ng platito at kumuha ng dessert. Mas nagcrave pa ako sa
dessert bago sa meal.
"You don't like strawberry flavoured food." sabi ni Kalev and stared at me weirdly.
"Nagcrave ako bigla." Sabi ko at humawak sa tyan ko. Kalev is right, hindi ko mahilig sa
strawberry flavoured food pero may exceptions pa din naman diba? It still counts.
I stick my tongue out and continue eating the dessert.
"Kid." Kalev said while shaking his head.
We ate our ordered food and decided to go home. Naabutan ko sa living room si Marco na
gumagawa ng assignments. Si Tori ang naghatid kay Marco pabalik galing sa school.
"Mauuna na ako sa taas. I am going to take a bath." Kalev said and I nodded.
"I will stay here first. I want to help my brother finish his assignment." I said and he kissed the
side of my cheeks. Pinagmasdan ko muna ang aking kapatid. I smiled unconsciously, parang
dati lang iniisip ko kung paano maooperahan si Marco at iniisip ko pa kung saan ako kukuha ng
pera para sa surgery. Because I want him to live a normal life, without any conditions. Look at
him now; he is healthy and full of life. I wiped the tears using my palm. I am so grateful.
"Marco." Tawag ko sa kanya. Tumingin siya sa akin at sinarhan ang libro na kanyang binabasa.
"Ate Marsh! Nandito na pala kayo." Lumapit ako sakanya at niyakap ko siya ng mahigpit.
"Ate naiipit ako." He whined. I laughed at him. "Ano bang ginagawa mo?" I asked at tiningnan
ang mga nakakalat na gamit sa lamesa.
"Nagbabasa ako tungkol sa puso ng mga tao. Pinahiram kasi ako ni Kuya Doc ng isang libro na
hindi na niya ginagamit at dahil tapos na akong gumawa ng assignments ko, sinisimulan ko na
tong basahin." Sabi niya at pinakita niya sa akin ang libro na kanyang binabasa. Mula kay
Alexander?
He is really serious when he told me that he really wanted to be a doctor.
"Naiintindihan mo na ba ang mga nilalaman niyan?" I asked dahil sa edad niya dapat ang mga
binabasa pa niya ay mga comics books at iba pang mga librong pambata.
"Madali lang naman pong intindihan. At tsaka matutulog na rin po ako." sabi niya at sinimulan
niyang ayusin ang kanyang mga gamit at nilagay sa bag niya. Tinulongan ko naman siya sa
paglagay ng mga libro at notebook niya sa loob ng kanyang bag at tsaka sinamahan siya sa
kanyang kwarto.
"Ate, magkakababy na po kayo ni Kuya Kalev?" Inaayos ko ang comforter ni Marco nang
itanong niya ito sa aki.
"Sino naman ang nagsabi sayo niyan?" I asked out of curiosity.
"Si Ate Tori po. Iiwan niyo na din po ba ako?" I frowned. "Bakit naman kita iiwan?"
"Kasi Ate Marsh magkakaroon na kayo ng sariling pamilya ni Kuya Kalev. Maiiwan na akong
magisa." Malungkot niyang pahayag. Umiling naman ako. "Bakit ko naman gagawin yun?
Kasama ka sa pamilyang bubuohin naming ni Kuya Kalev mo. We won't leave you behind
because you are part of it. Kaya wag mong isipin na iiwan ka ni ate, okay?"I heard him sighed in
relief.
"Silly." I said at ginulo ang buhok niya. "Matulog ka na, Marco." He nodded his head in response
at humiga sa kama. I kissed his forehead. "Goodnight Marco, sweetdreams." I muttered and left
his room turning the lights off.
Dumiretso ako sa kwarto na ginagamit naming ni Kalev at nakita ko siyang naka walking short
lang at may maliit na towel na nakalagay sa may balikat niya habang pinapatuyo ang kanyang
buhok.
"Is he asleep?" he asked the moment he saw me.
"Yep." I said while popping the p. "You smell nice." I added nang maamoy ko ang shower gel na
ginagamit niya sa pagligo. It was masculine smell and it was really nice indeed.
"Your brother had a bright future ahead." Sabi niya sa akin habang nagsusuot ng itim na sando.
Siguro ay napapansin din niya ang effort na nilalaan ni Marco sa kanyang mga pangarap. Yeah,
and I'm proud of him.
"Truly." I said at nahiga sa kama. Too tired from what has happened.
"Sleep tight my love. We are going somewhere else tomorrow." I didn't budge at hindi ko na
itinanong kung saan kami pupunta bukas and let the darkness consume.
* * * Mz's Note: Sorry ngayon lang ulit. I lost my phone last Nov. 4 at ngayon lang ulit nagkaroon
ng kapalit. Sure na, epilogue na ang kasunod.

[ 58 EPILOGUE ]
-------------------------------

Epilogue
THE MOMENT I woke up, mataas na ang sinag ng araw. Kaya naman pala, when I checked the
clock placed at the top of the side table, it's already eleven in the morning. I overslept again.
Blame my hormones.
"Good morning, baby. Maligo ka na dahil may pupuntahan tayo." Napatingin ako sa may walk in
closet. Nandoon pala si Kalev at mukhang katatapos lang niyang magbihis. Hindi siya naka
tuxedo and all. Napaka simple lang ng suot niya. A white shirt and jeans paired with converse.
Itinaas ko ang kumot hanggang sa dibdib ko at niyakap ang unan ng mahigpit. I eyed Kalev
dreamingly. Hmm. Ang sarap naman ng mahal ko. Bigla kong nahawakan ang bibig ko. Ano ba
'tong mga naiisip ko at sinasabi ko. I cursed mentally.
Mabilis akong bumangon dahil baka ano pang mangyari sa aming dalawa kung papatuloy kong
pairalin ang pagiging marupok ko at tsaka pumasok sa bathroom to take a bath.
"SAAN kasi tayo pupunta?" Ilang beses ko na 'tong tinanong pero kahit isa ay wala akong
nakuhang sagot.
"Patience is a virtue, my sweet." Hmp! Napasimangot ako at tumingin na lang sa kalsada.
"Hindi ka ba pupunta sa kompanya? Office hours ngayon. Naka nakakalimutan mo?" I
countered. He looked at me and then flashed a smirk bago ituon ang atensiyon sa pagdadrive.
"Unless you forgot, I am the owner of the company. Kahit wala ako, patuloy pa ding tatakbo ang
company because of the people. Just sit back and relax." I rolled my eyes at him. "Yabang." I
mumbled.
"I'm not boasting, my love. Just stating the truth." Another hmp came from me.
WE STOPPED in a small but cozy restaurant.
"Anong gagawin natin dito?" I asked out of curiosity.
"You'll see." Hays. Wala talaga siyang balak sabihin. Sumunod ako sakanya papasok. The first
thing I saw was the two vases in both side. Mukhang hindi naman formal ang restaurant at hindi
kailangan ng reservations. Dumaan kami sa gilid na part na makikita ang kitchen through the
glass walls. Hindi crowded ang buong lugar kahit may ilang tao ang kumakain.
"Over here!" Nakita kong nakaupo si Tori, Eliza, Nikos, Raven, and Alexander sa may gilid ng
restaurant.
"You go with them. May gagawin lang ako."
"Kalev—" Hindi ko na naituloy ang sasabihin ko ng bigla na lang siyang umalis. Bakit
nagmamadali ang isang yun?
Wala na akong magawa kundi pumunta sa pwesto nila Tori. Binigyan nila ako ng mauupuan and
they greeted me. I greeted back.
Nagkwentuhan kaming lima habang masayang kumakain. Our attention focuses to the left side.
Doon ko lang napansin na mayroon palang mini stage doon at mayroong microphone sa gitna.
There stood Trevor, holding the microphone using his left hand and Kalev is on his right side
and Severus on the left side na may hawak na drum sticks.
"Marsh, this is for you." Sabi ni Kalev sa microphone kaya napatingin ako sa kanilang dalawa na
nasa may mini stage. Kakanta siya? Anong pakulo na naman 'to? My cheeks reddened when
Kalev give me a flying kiss.
"Hindi ko akalain na gagawin 'to ni Kalev." Natatawang sabi ni Nikos.
"Tell me about it." Alexander said while eating.
"Love really conquers all." Added by Raven.
"Sound check." Trevor while checking the sound of the microphone. "That sounds good. In one,
two, three—
Watching the video that you sent meThe one where you're showering with wet hair drippingYou
know that I'm obsessed with your bodyBut it's the way you smile that does it for me
He started to sing. Kaya halos lahat ng tao na kumakain sa loob ng restaurant ay napatigil sa
ginagawa nila at tinuon ang atensiyon sa unahan. May ilan namang napatingin sa table namin.
Pero imbis na kay Trevor ako nakatingin ay mas napukaw ni Kalev ang aking atensiyon. He's
siting in front of the piano—playing. And Severus on the drums.
It's so sweet, knowing that you love meThough we don't need to say it to each other,
sweetKnowing that I love you, and running my fingers through your hairIt's so sweet
Touching the piano keys lightly as possible.
"Oh God. Ang gwapo gwapo talaga ni Trevor. Napakalamig ng boses niya, like a bird in a spring
day." Agree. His voice is nice and cool.
Watching the video where you're lyingIn your red lingerie ten times nightlyYou know I think your
skin's the perfect colorBut it's always your eyes that pull me under
It's so sweet, knowing that you love meThough we don't need to say it to each other,
sweetKnowing that I love you, and running my fingers through your hairIt's so sweet
Biglang tumigil ang kanta at tumayo si Kalev mula sa pagkaupo sa bench. Lumapit siya kay
Trevor and inabot sakanya ang microphone.
Tumayo din si Nikos, Raven, at Alexander at hindi ko alam kung saan sila pumunta.
Nagumpisan na akong maguluhan.
"What's happening?" I asked. "No idea." Sabi ni Eliza .
"We are very much alike; we understood each other perfectly, and when we were together we
didn't have to say much. We just knew." Hindi ako makapaniwalang tumingin kay Kalev. Asking
what's going on. Pero nagpatuloy pa rin siyang magsalita. My heart started to beat rapidly.
Kaya naman pala umalis si Nikos, Raven, at Alexander ay pumunta sila sa mini stage kaya
halos mapuno nilang anim ang buong stage. Dahil lahat sila ay napakalaking tao.
"I love you, Marsh." He stared at me and smiled a little. Ang lakas ng pintig ng puso ko.
"In one, two, three—"
The song I Lay My Love On You by Westlife played on the speaker.
Okay...anong balak nilang gawin? I become speechless when the six of them started to dance.
"Oh My God." Sabay na sabi ni Tori at Eliza.
Just a smile and the rain is goneCan hardly believe it (yeah)There's an angel standing next to
meReaching for my heart
Hindi ako makapaniwalang tumingin sa kanila. They are all dancing and I didn't know that Kalev
can dance a little. At paano kaya nila napapayag na sumayaw si Trevor at Alexander? Dahil
parehas silang nakasimangot habang sumasayaw.
I know, that I'll be ok nowThis time it's real
I laughed a little, what are they trying to do? Tumingin ako kay Kalev and he's so serious
dancing.
I lay my love on youIt's all I want to doEvery time I breathe I feel brand newYou open up my
heartShow me all your love, and walk right throughAs I lay my love on you
Wala pa sa kalagitnaan ng sayaw ay bumaba si Kalev at naglakad papalapit sa akin. Mas lalong
lumakas ang tibok ng puso ko.
"Hey babe." He grinned at me. And take my hand. "Come with me." He pulled me lightly at
dinala sa mini stage.
"Kalev? What are you trying to do?" He smiled at me.
"You're always there hunting me and little did I know I fall harder than I expected. Sa tingin mo
ba papakawalan pa kita? No way in hell. I'm just waiting for the right moment but I realize life is
now. You look really beautiful when you sit in front of the piano. And I can't wait to change your
surname." Huminga siya ng malalim bago lumuhod sa harapan ko. I was shocked by his actions
kaya nailagay ko ang kamay ko sa may bibig ko.
Showing me a small velvet box.
"You will marry me, Marsh. Whether you love it or you like it. I'm not giving you any choices but
to answer yes." Uminit ang pisnge ko at biglang tumulo ang luha ko.
"I thought you'll never ask." I said while sobbing. Tumayo siya mula sa pagkaluhod at pinunasan
ang luha ko. "Go on, love. Open it." I'm not aware to all of the eyes that were looking at us.
Everyone cheered for us. Basta ang concern ko lang ay si Kalev na nagpopropose sa harapan
ko.
Binuksan ko unti-unti ang maliit na kahon.
"What's this? Akala ko ba singsing ang nakalagay?" Natatawang sambit ko. Pinaasa pa ako.
"Wait 'till you see." He said at lumingon.
"Thank you for your effort. Aalis na kami, kayo na lang bahala dito." The five of them groaned in
disbelief.
"Matapos mo kaming pagsayawin dito sa harapan ng ilang tao, aalis ka na lang bigla?" Medyo
naiinis na sabi ni Alexander pero halata pa rin ang pagkamangha sa boses niya.
"Yeah. At least give us our talent fee." Sabi ni Trevor na hindi pa rin nabubura ang
pagkasimangot.
"Fine. But not now. Let's go, baby." Sabi niya sa akin at hinila ang kamay ko palabas ng
restaurant.
"Saan naman tayo pupunta?" I muttered dahil pinapasakay niya ako sa loob ng kotse.
AFTER 15 MINUTES ay itinigil niya ang kotse sa isang village. Villa-Amore Residential Estate.
Bumaba kami ng kotse at unang nakita ko ay ang isang malaking bahay.
"Open it, love. It's my gift to you. Kaya natagalan akong mag propose sayo dahil ginagawa pa
'tong bahay. But now it's done." He said. Humarap ako sa kanya.
"Dito natin bubuohin ang magiging pamilya natin." He said that made my heart fluttered.
"Okay naman tayo sa penthouse mo, you don't need to buy a mansion for us." Pagdadahilan ko.
Tutal, malaki naman ang penthouse niya. He don't need to buy one.
"But I want this to be our home, baby. Shh." He said kissing my lips. "Let's go inside." Tumango
ako at gamit ang susi na binigay niya sa akin ay ito ang ginamit ko upang mabuksan ang pinto
ng bahay.
"It was a great new house that I had spent months building, and every detail of the architectural
and interior designs was exactly what we wanted."
It was Western-inspired style with soaring glass windows that looked out on a swimming pool.
"This is so nice, Kalev. I love everything. Aaaahh." Napasigaw ako ng bigla niya akong buhatin
in a bridal style.
"Let's check our room, baby." Giving me a light kiss on my lips, tumaas siya ng hagdan habang
buhat ako.
"Pilyo." Natatawang sabi ko dahil alam ko na ang naiisip niya.
Malaki ang buong kwarto. Pero kaunti pa lang ang mga furniture na nakalagay. I know na
unti-unti naming pupunuin itong malaking bahay na 'to. Can't wait to see that happen.
"S-stop raping my neck." I whispered. He's sucking it roughly, biting my neck leaving a red mark
on it. Licking it off through my neck up to my earlobe. "I want you." I heard you whispered to my
ears. My body stiffened; it sent butterflies to my stomach. "I think I can't stop you now." Hirap ko
pang sabi.
Ang bilis talaga niyang kumilos.
"Have you decided the name of our baby?" I asked out of the blue, the moment he touched my
breasts.
"we can name him—" I cut him off.
"Or maybe her."
"And we can name our children after the names of our favorite pianist." That's actually a good
idea.
Cupping my breast and massaged it. "Ahh Kalev s-stop it." I said panting. Looking away I heard
his cold voice. "Tigil ko ba, love?" You started teasing. "S-stop. Don't. Don't stop. Aahh." I saw
you smirked at patuloy sa paghawak sa breast ko. Hinila mo ko patayo at pinaupo sa lap mo.
You removed my shirt and my bra. You look at my breast intently. "Fucking gorgeous." You said
and hold my left boobs massaging it while the other one— you started sucking it. A moan
escape from my mouth."
"Remove all your clothes. We'll do this now." I giggled.
Your past forms you, whether you like it or not. Each encounter and experience has its own
effect, and you're shape the way like a helium gas shapes a balloon. Wala na akong mahihiling
pa dahil kahit napakahirap ng pinagdaanan ko nung ako'y bata pa, sobra sobra naman ang
biyaya na dumating sa akin ngayon. I have a loving husband and for sure he will be a good
father soon enough and also I was blessed with a child in my womb. I can't asked for more.
-END
***
DEPENDE PO SAINYO KUNG GUSTO NIYO NG SPECIAL CHAPTER. The Possessive Doctor

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is out just check it on my profile. Doon na po ang focus ko at sana supportahan niyo din ang
story ni Dr. Alexander Coben III. Thank youuuu so much for reading this story. I love you all.
[/send virtual hugs;

[ 59 MUSTREAD ]
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So I'm here to share a good news to y'all. This book will be published and I'm looking for
potential buyers. Made to order and self-publishing po kasi 'yun kaya yung price is P390 +
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—mzsnre