The Empire Series 3: Vance Luanne

by jazlykdat

Vance Luanne's silence is not something you'll adore.

=================

The Empire Series: Vance Luanne

Vance Luanne's silence is not something you'll adore.

Author's Note:

This story is for mature readers only. Read at your own risk.

The stories of his parents are Married to a Hot Magnate and The Ignored Wife.

Leave it,
jazlykdat (just like that)

=================

Prologue

HER

Hindi naman niya first time na ma-interview para sa inaaplayang trabaho pero bigla
na lang siyang kinabahan kaya nagpunta muna siya ng washroom. Ilang pasilyo ang
nilikuan niya bago nakakita ng pambabaeng CR. Walang katao-tao ang hallway na
nadaanan niya.

Napatigil siya sa paglakad papunta sa cubicle nang makarinig ng ungol at

langitngit.

"Oooohhh, faster...uhmmm faster...shit! I'm cumming..."

Pinamulahan siya ng mukha. She's a virgin but she's not naïve. Alam niya kung ano
ang nangyayari sa loob ng cubicle.

Gusto niyang umatras pero naitulos siya sa kinatatayuan. The scene reminds her of
something that happened in the past.

Ipinikit niya ang mga mata at pinilit iwaglit ang mukha ng lalaki sa utak niya.

Bahagya siyang natuliro nang marinig ang pagbukas ng pinto ng cubicle. Her jaw
literally dropped when a green-eyed man goes out of it. Isinuot nito ang eyeglasses
na nakasukbit sa polo shirt bago naglakad papunta sa direksyon niya.

Her heart is beating fast. Siguradong pulang-pula rin ang mukha niya.

He stopped right in front of her and smirked bago lumabas ng CR. Nagmadali ring
lumabas ang babaeng kaniig nito mula sa cubicle at walang lingon-likod na naglakad
palabas.

What the hell?

Naghilamos siya para mahimasmasan sa nangyari. Matagal siyang nakatunganga sa

salamin bago nag-make up ulit. She tried to divert her attention to her job
application.

Nang kumalma ay bumalik siya sa opisina kung saan siya mai-interview.

"Miss, puwede ka ng pumasok," saad ng sekretarya sa kanya. She inhaled deeply as
she went inside the office.

Her insides churned when she saw the familiar green-eyes behind the eyeglasses.
Hindi niya tuloy alam kung aatras na lang.

"Take a seat," he ordered. Pinakalma niya ang sarili bago naglakad at umupo sa
kaharap na silya.

"Which do you prefer strawberry, orange or chocolate?" He asked void of any

emotion.

Natigilan siya.

May free drinks ba para sa job interviewee?

"No need sir. I'm good." Tugon niya rito.

Napakunot-noo ang lalaking kaharap.

"Choose one." He asked with a serious tone.

Wait what? Parte na ba iyon ng tanong nito sa job interview niya?

Anong klaseng tanong 'yon?

The man opened his drawer and brought out a handful of small foil packs.

"Pumili ka sa tatlo," inilatag nito ang mga pakete sa lamesa. Napakunot-noo siya
nang mabasa ang brand ng isang sikat na condom.

The man removed his eyeglasses and stared at her.

"Because the third time, you'll peep at me while I am having a quickie. I will
presume that you really want to join for a threesome."

=================

1: Thea Kimberly Samaniego

Thea held her breath as she walks out of the office. Hindi siya makapaniwalang si
Vance Luanne Filan pala ang may-ari ng kumpanyang inapplyan niya. Hindi naman kasi
VLF ang nakalagay na company name ng Pharmaceutical Laboratory. May sapantaha na
siya nang i-address sa VLF Building ang interview niya pero isinantabi nga lang
niya ang isiping iyon.

Hindi talaga niya inasahan na si Vance Luane mismo ang mag-iinterview sa kanya.
It's been years since she last saw him. College graduation yata ang huli.

After graduation at pagkapasa ng board exam ay sa abroad na kasi siya nagtrabaho.

She only came back because she wants to finally work home-based.

Hindi niya alam kung tatanggapin ang trabahong inaalok nito. He was the last person
she expected to meet pagbalik ng bansa. Idagdag pa ang eksena kanina. It was very
scandalous. Kahit pa sabihing hindi naman bago ang mga ganoong sitwasyon sa kanya.

Vance Luanne has triplets and he is the most silent among the three. He's a geek
lagi itong nakasuot ng eye glasses.

Noong high school at college sila ay may sarili pa itong space sa library kung saan
ito nagbabasa ng libro. Sa laboratory ay may sarili din itong space na hiwalay sa
kanilang lahat. His parents requested that to the school. Sobrang yaman kasi at
number one benefactor ng school ang mga magulang nito. Isa pa madalas din kasi
itong mag-experiment mag-isa. He was always their representative to the national
and international investigatory research contests.

He was her ultimate crush hanggang sa malaman niya ang tunay nitong kulay.

Sa

isang classroom talaga hindi nawawala ang chismosa. Matagal na niyang naririnig sa
mga kaklase niya na may pagka-maniac ang tahimik na Filan. Marami na daw itong na-
devirginize sa mga kaklase nila noong high school pa lang. Kapag daw ibinaba nito
ang malapad na eyeglasses at tinitigan ka ng berde nitong mga mata, he meant he
wants to fuck you.

Ang sagwa.

Hindi siya naniwala noong una kasi nga lagi na niya itong nakikitang nagtatanggal
ng eye glasses kapag naiiwan silang dalawa sa laboratory pero wala naman itong
ginagawang kabastusan sa kanya.

Nagpahuhuli kasi madalas ang lalaki na lumalabas sa tuwing may laboratory

experiments sila at dahil crush niya ito madalas siyang kunwari nag-aayos ng
apparatus para hintayin itong lumabas ng space nito.

She would often hear the "it" girls talk kung gaano ito kagaling sa romansa.

How grossed?

Akala niya gawa-gawa lang talaga ang mga iyon. Hanggang sa tumuntong sila ng
college. Inalam pa niya ang course nito para magkapareho sila. She also took up
Chemical Engineering.

Hanggang college ay may personal space ito sa laboratory at library sa school. Ang
yaman kasi.

One day, she went to the library at dahil walang katao-tao na-curious siya sa
itsura ng personal space nito.

She halts when she heard moans from the room.

"Ohhhh, Vance you taste good."

Pinagilabutan siya sa narinig. There was a man's moan coming from the room. Gusto
niyang magtatakbo pero ewan niya kung bakit pinihit niya ang door knob.

"That's it, bitch. Suck me mooore..."

Hindi siya

maaaring magkamali it was Vance's voice. Mas lalo siyang pinangilabutan nang makita
ang ginagawa ng mga ito. The girl is licking his big and long cock. She looked at
Vance's face. Enjoy na enjoy ito. His green eyes are flickering like crazy.

Nasapo niya ang dibdib at nagmadaling umalis sa lugar. That silent and nerd Filan
isn't what she thinks he is. Katulad din pala ito ng dalawa nitong ka-triplets na
babaero. No, he's the worst among the triplets.

From then on nilayuan na niya ito.

Now after few years, she caught him again in that awkward scene for the second
time.

How ironic?

Ano kayang mangyayari kapag nahuli niya ulit ito na may kaniig sa pangatlong
pagkakataon?

She doesn't like strawberry juice but she likes the fruit. Mahilig din siya sa
chocolate.

Alin kaya ang mas okay sa dalawa?

Napailing siya sa naisip. Marahas niyang ipinilig ang ulo.

'Yong Vance kasi na 'yon kung anu-anong kalokohan ang ipinapasok sa utak niya.

Naalala naman niya ang nangyari kanina. It wasn't really an interview per se.
Sinabi nitong tatawagan na lang siya para sa job offer pero bago siya lumabas ng
opisina may ipinagawa ito sa kanya.

"Before you go, will you please read this?" Itinuro nito ang nakaukit na pangalan
sa ibabaw ng table nito.

"Vance Luanne Filan." Kunot-noo niyang saad.

Does he want her to remember his name?

"Ito lang." Turo nito sa unang pangalan.

"Vance." She uttered.

"Say it louder." He commanded. Ayaw sana niya dahil wala siyang makitang dahilan
kung bakit gusto nitong sabihin ng malakas ang pangalan nito.

Nagtanggal ito ng salamin at tumitig sa kanya ng diretso. His green eyes are
intimidating.

Malabo ba talaga ang mga mata nito?

It doesn't appear like that to her.

Napalunok siya nang itaas nito ang mga kilay at hinintay siyang magsalita.

She gathered her strength.

"Vance!" she said aloud. Para matigil na ito.

Her forehead creased when he smiled devilishly.

"What was that for?" Lakas-loob niyang tanong.

His devious smile turned into a wide grin.

Ang guwapo ng loko.

"I just want to hear you scream my name." Nakangisi nitong saad.

She felt like hitting him with her stiletto shoes. Mabuti napigilan niya ang
sarili.

=================

2: His Personality

[A/N: Huwag ma-nosebleed. Kapag may na-mislook akong detalye. Paki-point out para
ma-double check ko. Hehe. Salamat sa mga naghihintay.]

"Follow me. I'll show you the laboratory." Tipid na saad ni Vance nang pumasok si
Thea sa opisina nito.
After days of meditating she finally decided to accept the job offer. Maganda kasi
ang benefit package at ito rin ang pinakamalaki at respetadong pharmaceutical
laboratory sa bansa. She is more than sure they also have a state-of-the-art
laboratory. Gaya ng sa ibang bansa kung saan siya nagtrabaho.

Tahimik lang ang lalaki habang naglalakad. She was a bit puzzled by his silence. It
was different from the Vance she encountered the last time.

Tahimik na lang din siyang sumunod nang pumasok ito sa elevator.

Base sa research niya, walang ibang company address ang pharmaceutical company
kundi sa mismong building ng mga Filan kaya hindi na siya nagtanong pa nang
makitang paakyat sa top floor ang elevator kung saan sila nakalulan.

Napakunot-noo siya nang lumabas sila sa mismong rooftop. It's not a laboratory but
a helipad. She was more than startled when Vance stepped towards the helicopter.
Ngumiti at bahagyang yumuko ang lalaking nakatayo malapit doon bago naglakad
papuntang elevator. Nilagpasan lang siya ng lalaki. Sinundan niya ito ng tingin.
Napalingon lang siya nang marinig ang pagtikhim ni Vance.

"Let's go?" aya nito. Naguguluhan man ay napatango na lang siya. Inalalayan siya
nitong makapuwesto sa cockpit area.

It wasn't her first time to ride in a chopper. Her father once had

one when she was younger. Hindi nga lang naalagaan kaya binenta na lang.

Natigilan pa yata si Vance nang makitang nakaayos na siya nang sumakay ito sa tabi
niya. Pero hindi ito nagsalita. Gusto niyang itanong kung saan ang lab na tinutukoy
nito pero hindi na ito nagsalita. He immediately put his seatbelt and headset then,
turned on the throttle. He adjusted the collective and pushed the pedal.
Marunong talaga ang binatang magmaniobra ng helicopter kaya nakahinga siya ng
maluwag. A moment later they are already leaving the ground.

______

Lumapag sila sa isang isla. Hindi niya alam kung saang banda na sila ng Luzon.

Nahiya siyang magtanong. Hindi rin kasi nagsasalita ang lalaking kasama niya.

Parang pangkaraniwang island resort lang naman ang isla. May mga two-floor
cottages, may parang pinaka-main hotel na mas malaki kaysa sa cottages na two-floor
din at may restaurant. Ang kaibahan lang wala masyadong tao. May nakita lang siyang
ilang tao na pumapasok sa restaurant ng resort pero mukhang mga empleyado lang
naman ang mga iyon dahil naka-uniform.

"Let's eat first. I'm starving." Saad ni Vance bago naunang naglakad papunta sa
restaurant. She was right. Puro employees lang talaga ang nandoon.

Kinabahan tuloy siya. Para kasing ghost island ang pinuntahan nila. Idagdag pa ang
tinging ipinupukol sa kanya ng mga empleyado sa loob ng restaurant. Pero ang guwapo
naman nitong multo na nasa unahan niya kung sakali.

Binati si Vance

ng mga empleyado pagpasok nila. Manager pa ang nag-asikaso sa kanila.

She didn't speak when he ordered food. Hindi rin naman siya tinanong.

Inilabas niya ang phone. Nagpasalamat siya nang makitang may signal naman ito. At
dahil hindi nagsasalita ang kaharap niya, hinanap na lang niya sa internet ang
lugar kung nasaan sila. Alam niyang papuntang west ang direksyon nila kaya
tiningnan niya sa arial view kung saan ang pinakamalapit na isla sa Bataan pero
wala siyang makita. Even the map of the Philippines didn't show any island nearby.

Nang hindi makatiis ay tumikhim siya para kunin ang atensyon ng lalaking kaharap na
abala rin sa sariling cellphone.

"V-vance. I mean Sir Filan. Saan ba'ng lugar 'to?" Lakas-loob niyang tanong.

"Don't call me Sir Filan. It sounds like my dad." Vance smirked.

Napatango siya. Hinintay niyang sagutin nito ang tanong pero hindi na ito muling
nagsalita pa. Huminga siya ng malalim para kumuha ng lakas ng loob.

"Sir, ano nga pong isla ito?" tanong niya ulit.

"Weren't you my classmate in ChemEng before? The Magna Cum Laude?" tanong nito sa
halip na sagutin siya.

Saglit siyang natigilan. Parang gusto niyang mapangiti.

So, he recognized her?

Unti-unti siyang napatango.

"Then stop calling me sir. Magka-level lang tayo." Saad ng binata bago ibinalik ang
tingin sa sarling phone.

"You were a Summa Cum Laude." Sambit niya. Technically, hindi sila magka-level. Mas
mataas pa rin si Vance.

Napalunok siya nang kunot-noo itong napatitig sa kanya.

"And you are my boss."

Dagdag niya para panindigan ang naunang pahayag. Nakita niyang napailing ang binata
bago ibinalik ang tingin sa hawak nitong phone.

"Ano nga'ng lugar ito? May right naman po akong magtanong 'di ba since magta-
trabaho ako dito?" Sinubukan niyang kontrolin ang namumuong inis. She doesn't
actually want to work in a secluded island. Isa pa sa VLF Empire ang business
address sa pinirmahan niyang kontrata. Sinabi lang niya iyon para sabihin na nito
ang lugar kung nasaan sila.

Bakit ba kasi siya pumirma ng kontrata na wala namang nakalagay na address ng

pharmaceutical laboratory? That was so stupid for a magna cum laude.

"You will be working closely with me at the VLF Building, not here."

Nagpanting ang tainga niya sa hindi na naman nito pagsagot sa tanong niya.

"So anong ginagawa natin dito?" May langkap ng iritasyon niyang tanong.

"I do not like repeating myself. I already told you before we went here." Kalmadong
saad ng lalaking kaharap na mas lalo niyang ikinainis.

"And I also despise repeating simple questions."Inis niyang tiningnan ang binata.

Nainis siya nang makitang umiling ito habang napapangiti. She prepared a tirade in
mind but he already spoke. Itinikom na lamang niya ang bibig.

"It's called VLF Island. It's near Bataan coast. Don't try searching it on the
internet. It's not there." Nakangisi nitong saad.

"This is a man-made island and I paid websites

a large amount not to include it in their maps."

Hindi siya nakapag-react agad sa sinabi nito.

"One more thing. Don't forget the clause you signed on the contract. You are not
allowed to disclose any information about the laboratories." Dugtong nito. Nainis
siya sa tono ng pananalita ng binata.

Mukha ba siyang hindi marunong tumupad sa usapan? Tsk!

"Why? Are you operating illegally?" tanong niya sa binata.

"What do you think?" Vance smirked.

"Malay ko. Bakit kailangang discrete ang labs niyo kung hindi ilegal?" taas-kilay
niyang tanong rito.

"Why did you sign a contract with a company you are unsure of?" balik-tanong ni
Vance. His facial expression changed. Mukhang nainsulto ito sa tanong niya. His
green eyes suddenly looked so distant.

"That's not what I meant. Of course I trust your company. I just don't see the
point why you need to hide your laboratories." Sambit na lamang niya.

Hindi naman sumagot ang kausap hanggang sa dumating ang mga inorder nitong pagkain.
Hindi tuloy siya nakakain ng maayos. Hindi niya kasi alam ang tumatakbo sa isip
nito.

His silence left her hanging.

________

Tahimik siyang sumunod nang pumasok ito sa main hotel ng isla. They were greeted by
some staffs. Tinanguan lang ito ng lalaki at dumiretso sa isang hallway. Sa dulo
nito ay may silver door na agad na bumukas nang itapat nito ang mukha sa scanner.
She knew it was an elevator when he pushed a button and the arrow down signal
blinked.

Huminga siya ng malalim nang tumigil ang elevator. Sumunod lang siyang lumabas.
They were greeted by an empty receiving area. Sumunod lang siya nang nag-scan ulit
ito ng mukha sa isang pintuan.

She almost gasped when she saw the wide laboratory. This is far better than the
laboratories she ever saw. Sa gitna ang hallway. Sa magkabilang sides ang mga
sections ng laboratory. It has glass walls kaya kitang-kita ang nangyayari sa mga
sections.

She instantly recognized that the one on her right is the tablet section. The
machines are working unmanned. As she walked down the hallway she saw the strip
packing machine, automatic tablet printing machine, tablet polishing machine,
tablet counting machine, rotary tablet press, spray coating machine, mechanical
shifter, rapid mixer granulator.

Sa kabilang side naman ang capsuling section. The machines are all working on their
own.

"I don't think I need to tell you what those are. Just ask if you have questions."
Saad ni Vance habang naglalakad sila.

They went to the Liquid and Ointment Section. Inilibot din siya nito sa may Quality
Control Section kung saan may ilang empleyado siyang nakita.

Nakahinga pa siya ng maluwag nang sa wakas ay makakita ng tao sa loob.

Nagpunta rin sila sa packaging sections. She can't believe there is a wide space
like this below the island. Sobrang lawak.

Umaalingawngaw ang tunog ng stiletto shoes niya sa buong hallway. Kahit kanina pa
sila palakad-lakad hindi niya maramdaman ang pagod. She's too engrossed and amazed
at what she's seeing.

Naglakad pa ulit sila bago nakarating sa isang parte ng lab.

"They are

the chemists and research chemists." Turo ni Vance sa mga taong nasa loob. Halos
dalawampu ang mga ito na pare-parehong may pinagkakaabalahang kung anu-ano sa mga
work area nila.

"I invented and will invent all the medicines and vaccines produced or will be
produced by this lab." Vance stated. Napatingin siya rito.

Hindi na siya nagtaka.

"The chemists do the formula for mass production and testing."

Napatango siya. Chemical engineers are more on designing and troubleshooting

processes for the production of chemicals. Hindi nila trabaho ang mag-imbento ng
gamot.

"Why didn't you take up BS Chemistry instead of Chemical Engineering?" she asked.

Vance smirked at her question.

"I've been doing what chemists do since high school." He said matter-of-factly.

Napangisi na lang ang loob niya.

Ang yabang.

Hindi na siya nagsalita.

"There are 5 in-house Chemical Engineers here." Pagpapatuloy nito habang

naglalakad.

"Your job is to help me improve the whole laboratory processes. If there are new
innovations that may be integrated, you'll help me ratify and see how it would fit
with the existing technologies we have."
Huminga siya ng malalim habang napapatango. Sumunod lang siya nang maglakad ito.

Pumasok ito sa isang pinto.

"These two are marine biologists, the other two are ichthyologists, she's
biochemist, and he's a biologist." Isa-isa nitong itinuro ang mga nandoon sa loob.

Nginitian niya ang mga ito sa kabila ng pagtataka kung bakit kailangan nito ang mga
iyon. They only greeted

her before turning to their work tables.

Vance went on the side of the room and swiped his palm on the white walls. Unti-
unting naging clear glass ang puting dingding. There she saw underwater marine
life.

"Are we underwater?" tanong niya rito.

Vance smiled.

"Yes. I do not want to jeopardize any life. That's why I made this laboratory away
from populated areas." Nakangiti nitong tugon.

"The scientists here are turning all the chemical wastes and excess into marine
foods and bio-friendly chemicals." He added leaving her speechless.

Wow. This guy is really a genius.

Sumunod siya nang lumabas ito.

"Diyan sa kabilang side ang mga machines at equipments na nagpro-process no'ng mga
excess at chemical wastes." Turo nito sa kabilang part ng hallway. It has white
walls kaya hindi niya ito nakikita.

Napatingin siya sa signage na nakapaskil sa dingding. Napailing siya. Sa pinasukan

din nila kanina may gano'ng signage pero hindi niya pinansin.

"What's with that No Sex Among Employees signage?" Wala sa loob niyang tanong.

Vance stopped walking and stared at her.

"No pleasure during work hours." Nakangisi nitong tugon.

Para namang hindi niya alam gawain nito.

Ano ayaw lang ba nito sa kapwang mahilig sa gano'n?

"Kaya pala may ginagawa kang kababalaghan sa Ladies Room during business hours."
Nakangisi rin niyang tugon.

"She's not an employee." Agad nitong sagot.

"So hindi ka pumapatol sa mga empleyado mo?" balik-tanong niya rito.

Her forehead creased when Vance grinned.

"What if I don't? Are you going to retract your signed contract?" He asked with a
wide grin.

Her face flushed at his bluntness.

Tumawa ito nang makita ang reaksiyon niya. His laughter echoed. Mas lalo tuloy
siyang pinamulahan. She wanted so bad to answer back but she doesn't know what to
say. Naumid ang dila niya.
"I was just kidding." Saad nito nang makahuma mula sa pagtawa. Nakahinga siya ng
maluwag sa kabila ng pamumula ng mukha.

Vance moved a step closer.

"But to answer your question, yes, I never did it to any of my employees and I
don't have plans to." Tumingin ito sa kanya ng diretso.

Hindi na lamang siya nagsalita pa.

"But don't fret." He muttered smiling.

"You are not an employee. You are my partner engineer, remember? So you might not
be spared of the pleasure." Kindat nito bago natatawang tumalikod at nagpatuloy sa
paglalakad.

=================

3: Sharp Memory

Thea immediately threw herself on the bed when she got home. This is what she loves
about living alone. Kapag nasa bahay siya paniguradong pakikialaman na naman ng
mommy niya ang paghiga niya. She would always want her to change clothes. Napaka-
metikulosa.

Pati mga damit niya ay pinapakialaman. Kaya kasundong-kasundo nito ang kapatid
niyang fashion designer. Siya naman kasi walang pakialam sa damit basta kumportable
siya ay okay na sa kanya. She doesn't like men drooling over her. Ayaw niya ng
binabastos siya dahil lang sa suot niya kaya hindi siya masyadong nagpapakita ng
balat.

Speaking of "binabastos", she closed her eyes forcibly and inhaled deeply. Naalala
na naman kasi niya ang sinabi ni Vance kanina bago sila lumabas ng laboratory.

She felt uncomfortable about it. Kaya noong nakalabas sila ay sinabi niya rito na
hindi siya kumportable sa mga ganoong banat nito.
She expected a wide grin or another joke from him but he just said "okay" and never
spoke again. Sa pangalawang beses, pakiramdam niya ay iniwan na naman siya sa ere
dahil sa pananahimik nito.

Nagsalita lamang ito nang makabalik na sila sa VLF building. Sinabi lang nitong
kailangan niyang bumalik ng isla at mag-stay doon ng isang linggo para makita ang
proseso sa loob at kung ano ang dapat pang gawin para mapaganda ang laboratory.

She wasn't able to sleep that night so she just prepared her luggage for a weeklong
stay at the island. Tinawagan na rin niya ang mga magulang dahil baka puntahan siya
ng ina sa condo. Kapag hindi siya

madatnan doon, siguradong makakarinig na naman siya ng litanya.

At 27, pinapagalitan pa rin siya nito kapag hindi siya nagpapaalam. Kahit noong
nasa abroad siya at namamasyal sa ibang bansa, nagagalit ito kapag hindi niya
ipinapaalam sa kanila at makikita na lang ang mga pictures niya sa social media.

"I am still your mother, Thea Kimberly Samaniego." She would always hear her mom
say. Kaya kahit nakabukod siya ipinapaalam niya pa rin kung saan siya nagpupunta.

Sinabi na lamang niya na may in-house training siya para sa bagong trabaho. She
didn't give her mom a chance to ask question. Baka ma-excite ito kapag nalamang sa
VLF Empire siya magta-trabaho.
-----

Maaga siyang nagpunta sa VLF building dahil hindi naman niya tinanong kung anong
oras sila pupunta sa isla. Naghintay tuloy siya ng halos tatlong oras sa loob ng
opisina ni Vance. Pabalik-balik pa ang sekretarya nito para itanong kung okay lang
siya. Hindi naman daw kasi nagsabi si Vance na male-late ito at ayaw din nitong
natatawagan sa umaga.

Naglakad-lakad na lamang siya sa loob ng malawak nitong opisina. Unang nabubungaran

ang table nito na may dalawang magkaharap na upuan sa harapan pagpasok ng opisina.
May living area ito sa right side na may mahabang couch at dalawang single couches.
May nakamount ding TV sa wall. Sa kanan pa ulit ng living room ay may dining area
din at maliit na kitchen area. The kitchen counter serves as a division.

Parang 'yong condo niya lang.

She was busy looking around nang makarinig siya ng mahihinang pagtawa. Agad siyang
napatingin sa may pinto.

She stood frozen.

Kitang-kita niya kasi ang biglang paghalik ng babae kay Vance.

She blinked twice thinking that she's only imagining things but their kisses all
the more became hotter.

Pinamulahan siya ng mukha at hindi agad nakagalaw.

Napalunok siya ng ilang beses. Her heartbeats are racing. If she won't announce her
presence, she might see them having sex with her naked eyes.

Just how horny is this green-eyed man? Singberde yata ng galaw nito ang mga mata.
Pumikit siya ng mariin. She earned all her courage to fake a cough.

"Fuck!" Sambit ni Vance nang mailayo ang babaeng kahalikan. Agad itong lumingon sa
kinaroroonan niya.

"Thea?" Kunot-noo nitong sambit.

Ngumiti siya ng alanganin.

Tumingin siya sa babaeng kahalikan nito. She recognized the girl. She's a model.
Madalas itong nag-model para sa mga gowns ng kapatid niya.

"K-karen, I mean Kara..." Vance muttered looking at the girl. The girl latter shook
her head.

"Karina pala, please just leave. I'll call you." Dagdag ng binata. Parang nainis pa
ang babae sa sinabi nito pero hinawakan na ito ng binata sa siko at iginiya paharap
sa pinto.

Walang nagawa ang babae kundi lumabas ng opisina.

"I forgot to instruct my secretary. I'm sorry." Saad ni Vance nang makita ang
luggage niya.

Napatango na lang

siya. Akala niya ay magagalit ito.

Naalala niya ang sinabi nito noon na sa susunod na makita niya itong may kaniig ay
isasali na siya.
Iyon pa talaga ang una niyang naisip? Tsk!

Ipinilig niya ang ulo at iwinaglit iyon sa isipan.

Vance went to his desk and dialed on the phone. May tao itong tinawag na pumunta sa
loob ng opisina.

They were both silent for a moment bago bumukas ang pinto at pumasok ang isang
lalaki.

"He's a pilot. He'll take you to the island." Hayag ni Vance nang makalapit ang
lalaki sa kinaroroonan nila.

Akala niya kasama si Vance pabalik ng isla. Hindi pala.

Napatango na lang siya.

Kinuha niya ang suitcase at tiningnan ang lalaki. He looks young. Sa tantiya niya
ay 25 years old lang ito.

"Tulungan na kita." Agad na saad ng lalaki. Ngumiti ito sa kanya. She smiled and
was about to hand him the suitcase when Vance suddenly stood from his swivel chair.

"Ako na." Saad nito sa lalaki. Kinuha agad nito ang suitcase mula sa kamay niya.
Pakiramdam niya ay nagrigodon ang tibok ng puso niya sa pagdaiti ng kamay nito sa
kamay niya.

She inhaled deeply to calm herself.

Bakit gano'n? Dahil ba crush niya ito dati kaya may epekto pa rin ito sa kanya?

She shrugged the thought off.

Sumunod na lamang siya sa dalawang lalaki nang lumabas na ang mga ito.

"You'll be using my cottage at the island. The receptionist will usher you when you
get there." Saad nito nang nasa rooftop na sila. Nauna na ang piloto sa chopper.

Hindi niya alam kung

ano ang isasagot kaya napatango na lang siya.

"Use this to access all the doors in the island." Hawak nito ang isang mahabang
gold na kuwintas na may pabilog na pendant, may barcode ang pendant.

"Huwag ka lang papasok sa mga quarters ng empleyado, ha?" natatawa nitong dagdag.
Napangiti siya. Somehow it made the mood lighter.

Aabutin na sana niya ang kuwintas pero naglakad ito papunta sa likuran niya.

Nahigit pa niya ang paghinga nang maramdamang isinusuot nito ang kuwintas sa leeg
niya. She closed her eyes when she smelled his scent. It was manly but at the same
time sweet and soothing to the nose. Kaya siguro madaming nahuhumaling rito.

O baka naman humalo lang ang pabango nito sa pabango no'ng babaeng kahalikan nito
kanina?

Bigla siyang nawalan ng gana nang maalala ang nakita kanina. Pinigilan pa niya ang
sariling huminga hanggang sa mailagay nito ang necklace para hindi niya ito maamoy.

Hindi siya nagsalita nang maglakad na ito papunta sa helicopter dala ang suitcase
niya. He put it inside.

Nang makababa ito ay saka naman siya sumakay. Nakatingin lang ito sa kanya.
Pakiramdam niya ay may gusto pa itong ibilin pero hindi naman ito nagsasalita. She
fixed her seatbelt.

"Thea."

Napatingin siya sa binata nang magsalita ito. Nakatayo ito sa tapat ng pintuan ng
chopper.

"M-may ibibilin ka pa?" Lihim niyang pinagalitan ang sarili dahil sa pagkautal.

Why is she so much affected by his presence?

"I'll just call you up." Sambit nito bago tumalikod.

Nakita niyang huminga ito ng malalim bago tuluyang naglakad palayo. Napapailing

na lang siyang napasandal sa upuan.

_________

Vance said he'd call up Thea but he never did. Ipinagkibit-balikat na lamang iyon
ni Thea at nag-concentrate sa mga ginagawa niya.

Salitan ang limang chemical engineers sa pag-guide sa kanya araw-araw. For a week
she was able to know everything that she needs to know about the laboratory. Lahat
ng equipments, machines at mga products na ginagawa sa loob.
Nakilala niya rin ang mga empleyado. Sila pala ang nag-ooccupy ng lahat ng suites
at cottages. Libre ang lahat ng amenities sa isla. They can eat at the restaurant
for free. May bar din kung saan sila tumatambay sa gabi na free din sa lahat. But
the employees are disciplined, hindi sila umiinom ng marami at nagtatagal doon
dahil may mga trabaho pa ang mga ito kinabukasan.

May mga motorboats rin na puwede nilang gamitin papunta sa mainland ng Bataan kung
may gusto silang bilhin. May mga ilan kasing empleyado ang nagluluto sa kani-
kanilang cottages. Pero kailangan sa private beach resort lang din ng mga Filan
dadaong ang motorboat.

They have two days off in a week. 'Yong iba umuuwi ng Manila at sumasakay sa
chopper pero kailangang i-arrange ng mas maaga dahil hanggang dalawampu lang ang i-
aaccomodate for free every weekend. 'Yong iba namamasyal lang sa Bataan. 'Yong iba
naman naiiwan na lang sa isla. There are around 150 people in the island.

-----

Hindi niya alam kung anong oras siyang susunduin ng chopper pero ibinaba na lamang
niya ang suitcase sa living room ng cottage. Sa restaurant na lang din siya kakain
ng breakfast habang

hinihintay ang sundo niya. The kitchen in the cottage is filled with supplies pero
hindi talaga siya marunong magluto maliban sa instant noodles at prito. Kaya sa
restaurant lang siya laging kumakain. Pati nga sa abroad dati at sa condo niya
umaasa lang siya sa mga take outs.

"How was your stay here in the island?"

Napahawak pa siya sa dibdib nang marinig ang boses ni Vance. Lumingon siya sa may
kusina kung saan nanggaling ang tinig. Napalunok pa siya nang makitang naka-beach
shorts lang ito at tumatagaktak pa ang tubig sa katawan.
Anong oras ito dumating at nakaligo pa yata ito sa dagat?

"You're all set. Excited kang umuwi?" tanong nito habang nagsasalin ng tubig sa
baso.

Mas lalo siyang hindi nakapagsalita nang itinungga nito ang laman ng baso.

She wanted to avert her gaze but the sight is too perfect to ignore. 'Yong abs ang
nagdala. They looked firm.

Bumaba ang tingin niya sa waistline nito. It looked sexy. Bababa pa sana ang mata
niya nang bigla siyang tinablan ng hiya.

"Ahm, hindi n-naman." Nauutal niyang tugon. Napatalikod siya at agad na naupo sa
sofa nang tumitingin ito sa kanya.

She uttered a silent prayer when he sat infront of her. Ibinabandera yata nito ang
katawan.

"Anong oras ka dumating? Hindi ko narinig 'yong chopper na lumapag." Saad niya para
ilihis ang ideyang pumapasok sa isip niya.

"I didn't ride in a chopper. Ginamit kasi ng mga kapatid

ko lahat." Tugon nito.

Napatango na lang siya.

"Is it okay if we travel by land pabalik ng Manila?" Dugtong nito.

"Okay lang."
May magagawa ba siya?

Pero kailangan niya yatang magdasal para hindi niya maalala ang katawan nito habang
nasa byahe sila.

Nakahinga siya ng maluwag nang tumayo ito.

"May kukunin ka pa ba sa kuwarto? Is it okay if I use it? Maliligo lang ako." Saad
nito nang makatayo.

Kahit anong iwas ng mata niya ay napasulyap pa rin siya sa katawan ng binata.

"Wala na." nakangiti niyang tingala sa mukha nito. Ngumiti lang ito at nagtungo na
sa hagdan. Sinundan niya ito ng tingin. Kulang na lang mapakagat siya sa labi.

It took her a while to calm herself from that wonderful sight.

______

Tahimik lang siya habang nasa passenger's side ng sasakyan at bumibiyahe na

papuntang Maynila. Hindi na naman kasi nagsasalita si Vance.

Nag-breakfast lang sila kanina sa restaurant ng isla bago sumakay ng motorboat

papunta sa private beach resort ng mga ito kung saan nakahimpil ang sasakyan ng
binata.

He wasn't speaking so neither is she. Kahit gusto niyang magsalita, nahihiya naman
siyang magbukas ng usapan.
Nagpasalamat pa siya nang tumunog ang cell phone niya.

"Hey!" Agad niyang sagot pag-angat ng tawag. It was her closest friend since
college. Nagyaya kasi ito na lalabas mamayang gabi kasama

ang lima pa nilang kabarkada dahil sinabi niyang pabalik na siya ng Manila. Three
of them are already married pero go pa rin sa lakaran.

"Tuloy tayo mamaya, ha? Kumusta na pala kayo ni Vance?" Agad namang tanong ng
kaibigan niya sa kabilang linya. Napasulyap siya kay Vance. Nahihiya siyang
napabaling ng tingin nang magtagpo ang mga mata nila.

"Oo. Magku-kuwento ako mamaya." Tipid niyang sagot sa kaibigan.

"Pa-bitin. Ano? Pinatulan ka na ba sa wakas?" binuntutan pa nito ng malakas na

pagtawa. She had to distanced her ear from the phone para lang hindi mabingi sa
pagtawa nito. Wala kasi siyang naililihim sa mga kaibigan. Her life is an open book
to them.

"Baliw. As if gusto ko." Saad niya rito.

"Whatever! I'll see you later, bitch!" tugon lang ng kaibigan niya bago siya
pinatayan ng telepono. Napapailing na lang niyang ibinalik ang cellphone sa bag.

She saw Vance glancing at her. Agad din naman nitong itinuon ang pansin sa daan.

"It was my closest friend from college. Lalabas kasi kami mamaya with some
friends." Hayag niya kahit hindi naman siya tinanong ng binata. Mukha kasi itong
curious.

Napatango ang binata.

"Was it Rose? Or Marjorie?" sulyap nito.

She was taken aback.

"Kilala mo sila?" Hindi makapaniwala niyang tanong rito. Napasulyap naman ito sa
kanya nang may kunot sa noo.

"They were our classmates." Sambit nito.

She knows that. Pero hindi naman sila kinausap ng lalaki ni minsan at never din
nila itong kinausap. So, she presumed they were invisible to him.

"Alam ko kaya lang hindi ko lang inexpect na kilala mo sila. I mean kami." Sambit
niya.

Vance smiled.

"I can memorize the periodic table of elements including all their properties and
origin. Shame on me if I can't even memorize the names of my classmates for four
years." Saad nito.

Her jaw literally dropped at what he said.

Itinikom lang niya ang bibig nang sumulyap ito at ngumiti ng matamis. Napalunok
siya. He looked so handsome when he smiles.

"You have four other friends, right?" tanong nito. Napatango siya.

She was about to name them but he immediately spoke.

"Leah, Candice, Hannah and Shien." Sambit nito.

=================

4: Breather

Out of courtesy, inimbita ni Thea si Vance para mag-snacks sa café malapit sa condo
tower niya pero tumanggi naman ito. He said he still needs to go somewhere.

Nahiya tuloy siya dahil sinundo siya nito. Busy pala ito. Puwede naman kasi sanang
ipinagpaliban na lang niya ang pag-uwi hanggang sa mayroon nang available na
chopper para sumundo sa kanya.

She doesn't want to think that he's treating her special but she can't help it.
Kilala pa kasi nito kung sino ang mga ka-close niya noong college sila.

But that should not be her concern. Alam naman niyang maraming babae si Vance. Ayaw
na niyang dumagdag pa.

That realization gave her headache kaya itinulog na lamang niya ng ilang oras bago
nakipagkita sa mga kaibigan niya ng bandang hapon.

As usual, her friends are very inquisitive. Hindi siya tinantanan hangga't hindi
siya nagkuwento ng tungkol sa pagkikita nila at pagka-hire niya sa kumpanya ni
Vance. Kilig na kilig din kasi ang mga ito sa lalaki kahit ang tanda-tanda na nila.
They never believed the rumors about Vance when they were in college. Kahit na
ikinuwento niya ang nakita niya sa library noon. Hindi naman daw kasi nila
nakikitang nakikipag-usap sa mga babae si Vance.

Hindi pa nakuntento sina Candice at Rose sumama pa talaga sa condo niya para
makitulog baka may maalala pa daw siyang ikuwento. Kapareho niya kasi ang dalawa
na
single pa rin kaya ayos lang na magpunta kung saan-saan. Gusto rin sanang sumama
ni
Marjorie pero tinawagan na ito ng asawa. Alas onse na ng gabi sila naghiwa-
hiwalay.

Rose immediately rummaged her closet. Kumuha na ito ng pamalit na damit.

Ka-size niya lang kasi ito at sanay na silang naghihiraman ng damit kapag nakitulog
sa pad ng isa't-isa kahit noong college pa. Candice brought her own clothes.
Dinaanan nito kanina sa bahay nito bago sila tumuloy ng condo niya.
They were busy watching a movie while laughing at some anecdotes when her phone
rang. Inabot agad ito ni Rose at nanunudyong tumingin sa kanya.

"New number. Baka si Baby Vance na 'yan." Tudyo nito habang ibinibigay ang cell
phone sa kanya. Agad nitong hininaan ang volume ng TV at lumapit para makinig.

"Hello?" she uttered holding the phone near her ear.

"Did I disturb your sleep?" Her heart leaped. It was really Vance.

Itinulak niya ang kaibigang sobrang lapit sa telepono. Nanunudyo naman itong
tumingin at sa kanya at nagbantay sa harap niya pati si Candice ay nakisali rin.

"No, I'm actually watching a movie."

Walang sound ang pagtawa ni Rose habang pinipigilan siyang tumayo mula sa sofa.
Hinayaan na lamang niya ang mga ito.

"Really? What movie?"

"Bakit napatawag ka?" tanong niya sa halip na sagutin ang tanong ng binata. Ang
laki kasi ng ngiti ng dalawang nakikinig sa usapan kapag sinagot niya ang tanong
baka mapatili ang mga ito.

"Yeah. About that. I won't be in the office on monday." Vance answered blandly.

"Nagpapaalam. Ang sweet-" Pinandilatan niya ang kaibigang nagsalita. Lumapit pala
ito at nakinig.

Natatawa nitong itinikom ang bibig at nakipag-high five pa kay Candice.

"Sino 'yong nagsalita? May kasama ka ba diyan?" tanong ni Vance.

"Wala. 'Yong TV lang 'yon. Pinatay ko na."

"Okay . As I was saying, wala ako sa opisina sa lunes pero darating 'yong
maglalagay ng table and filing cabinet mo sa office." Umpisa nito.

Hindi siya nakasagot agad. Saglit siyang napaisip sa sinabi nito.

"Will you please help them re-decorate the office? I mean instruct them where you
want to place the furniture. Bahala ka na sa ayos na gusto mo." Dagdag nito. Saka
lang nag-sink in sa utak niya ang sinasabi ng binata.

He wants her to stay in his office?

"Are you sure?" She asked.

"Yes. Alam ko namang hindi mo guguluhin ang office ko." Natatawa nitong tugon.

"No. I mean. Do you want me to stay inside your office? Hindi ba parang
nakahihiya?" Sambit niya. Hindi makapaniwalang nakatingin ang dalawang kaibigan na
nakatitig lang sa kanya at nakikinig sa mga sinasabi niya.

"I actually want you near me."

"Ano?"

"Uhm, I mean I want you to be always at reach. I don't have much time for the
pharma lab so you'll be doing most of the works for me." Paliwanag nito.

Napa-oo na lang siya.

Pagkababa pa lang niya ng tawag, hindi na siya tinantanan ng dalawang kaibigan na

hindi sabihin ang napag-usapan nila. Wala tuloy siyang nagawa kundi magkuwento.
Kilig

na kilig pa ang dalawang bruha. Ewan niya kung bakit. She can't see anything
special about it. If she was special, he would've taken advantage of her invitation
awhile back. Iyon ang ipinapaliwanag niya sa mga kaibigan pero hindi nila ito
pinapakinggan.

Sometimes she thinks her group of friends is odd. 'Yong mga iba kasi kapag lalaking
katulad ni Vance kuntodo pigil na sa kaibigan para hindi ma-inlove. But her friends
are different, they are even pushing her towards him.

Her Saturday was spent with friends. Lumabas pa kasi sila kinabukasan. On Sunday,
she went home and spent it with her family. Her mom was so ecstatic when she said
that she'll work at VLF.

Noon pa man kapag nakare-receive siya ng invitation galing sa mga Filan kapag may
okasyon, Mommy niya ang nagtutulak na pumunta siya pero hindi siya nagpupunta. Alam
naman kasi niya na ang imbitasyon ay out of courtesy lang dahil kaklase niya si
Vance. Lahat silang magka-klase ay automatic na nakaka-receive ng invitation kaya
kapag may natatanggap siya ay itinatago niya sa Mommy niya.

Kahit noong ikinasal ang isa sa mga triplets at pinipilit siya ng mga kaibigang
pumunta ay hindi talaga siya nagpunta. Hindi naman kasi niya ka-close ang isang
'yon dahil iba ang section nito. The triplets had different sections when they were
in high school. Si Vance lang ang naging kaklase niya sa tatlo.

_____

Sinalubong siya ng sekretarya ni Vance pagpunta niya ng opisina.

"Engr. May hired interior decorator na inutusan si sir pero kayo pa rin daw ang
masusunod." Saad nito habang
iginigiya siya papasok ng opisina. There are already four men inside. Agad namang
lumapit ang interior decorator at ipinakita sa kanya ang sketch ng gagawing
pagbabago. Minimal lang naman ang mangyayari. Ire-rearrange lang ang sala set para
spacious pa rin ang dating kahit na maglalagay ng filing cabinet at table niya.

"Pwedeng pagpalitin itong filing cabinet at table?" tanong niya sa decorator.

Napangiti naman ang lalaki. It was actually her first time to deal with a male
interior decorator. Nakakapanibago. May equality na talaga pagdating sa gender
roles.

"Hindi na po kayo magkakakitaan ni sir Filan." Komento nito. That's exactly her
point. Halos katapat lang kasi mismo ng table nito ang table niya kaya siguradong
kita nito lahat ng galaw niya. Kapag pinagpalit naman ang cabinet at table, puwede
niyang iusog ang swivel ng kaunti para hindi siya nito makikita.

"Mas okay 'yan para hindi masyadong awkward kapag may kausap siya." tugon niya
rito. Napatango naman ito kahit mukhang hindi kumbinsido.

"Kapag may gusto pa daw po kayong ipadagdag na gamit sabihin niyo lang para ma-
order agad." Singit ng sekretarya.

"Wala na siguro." Tugon na lamang niya. Pareho kasi silang minimalist ng lalaki.
Ayaw niya rin ng masyadong maraming dekorasyon para kasing mas magulo tingnan kapag
gano'n.

Nanatili lang siya sa reception area kung nasaan ang sekretarya ni Vance habang
inaayos ang loob ng opisina. Gumawa na lang siya ng report ng tungkol sa mga nakita
at nalaman niya sa island para may maibigay sa boss

kung sakaling magtanong ito.

She was busy typing on her laptop when she smelled a familiar scent - manly but
sweet and soothing.

"How's our office?" Nakangiting mukha ni Vance ang bumungad sa kanya pag-angat niya
ng tingin. He's leaning on the desk. His face is only a few inch away.
Itinulak niya ang lamesa para lumayo ng kaunti ang upuan. His nearness suffocates
her.

Natatawa namang umayos ng tayo ang binata.

"Come with me." He ordered before moving towards the door of his office. Huminga na
lamang siya ng malalim bago sumunod.

"Akala ko hindi ka pupunta ngayon dito." Saad niya nang magpang-abot sila.

"Can't I change my mind?" baling naman nito sa kanya nang may pilyong ngiti.

She must not forget he is the boss. Hindi na lamang siya nagsalita.

"Why did you exchange the cabinet and the table?" tanong nito nang makita ang ayos
ng opisina. Patapos na pala ang mga nag-aayos sa opisina.

"Can't I change the plan?" balik-tanong niya rito.

"I figured that." Napailing ito at natatawang tinungo ang upuan nito.

"Will you try sitting on your swivel?" Nakangiti nitong saad nang makaupo sa
puwesto. She didn't even think twice. She immediately went to her chair. Sinadya
niyang umusog ng kaunti para hindi siya makita ng binata. This is better.

"Shit. What happened to the world?" Vance exclaimed.

Napatayo siya para tingnan ang binata. Napakunot-noo siya nang makitang okay naman
ito sa pagkakaupo.

"Where is justice in interior designing?" tanong ng binata sa decorator. Napatawa

naman ang lalaki pero hindi ito nagsalita.
Hindi niya maintindihan ang dalawa kaya bumalik na lamang siya sa pagkakaupo.

Nagpaalam na rin ang mga lalaki nang maayos na ang lahat.

"You can never hide, Thea."

Napapitlag siya nang marinig magsalita ang binata. Nakatayo na pala ito sa harap
niya. Itinuloy kasi niya ang ine-encode kanina.

Vance laughed when he saw her reaction.

"You look scared. Wala akong gagawing masama sa 'yo." Natatawa nitong sambit.
Bahagya pa siyang pinamulahan. Nakakahiya lang kasi kung mukha siyang takot.

"Hindi naman ako natatakot. Nagulat lang." Depensa niya.

Vance chuckled.

"Good. Let's have lunch then." Nakangiti nitong anyaya. She wasn't able to answer.
He looks so handsome. Mas lalo siyang natameme nang kumindat pa ito.
Author's Note: Kalma lang. Nag-uumpisa pa lang ang story. Another thing, Isipin
niyo na lang green eyes si Vance diyan. Hehe.

=================

5: Flirt

"So, how would I address you?" tanong ni Thea kay Vance para putulin ang
katahimikan sa pagitan nilang dalawa. Tumahimik na naman kasi ito nang papunta na
sila ng restaurant at kahit noong matapos silang umorder.

"Vance, just Vance." Tugon naman nito.

Napatango siya. Vance did not speak any further. He suddenly became so distant
again.

Huminga siya ng malalim. His silence really leaves her hanging. Hindi niya talaga
alam kung ano ang iniisip nito.

Hindi nga rin niya sigurado kung seryoso ba itong nag-iisip o kung may iniisip lang
na kalokohan. Sa personalidad nito na malapit na sa borderline ng pagiging genius
maaaring nag-iisip nga ito ng mga seryosong bagay. Ngunit subalit datapwat (hehe)
alam naman niya na sa ilang mga pagkakataong nagkausap sila kabastusan ang
karamihan sa mga sinasabi nito kaya hindi rin siya nakasisiguro kung kalokohan ang
tumatakbo sa isip nito kapag nananahimik.

She heaved a sigh and earned the courage to speak again.

"If I'd be staying in your office, can I ask a small favor?"

Napatitig si Vance sa kanya. Saglit itong nag-isip bago tumango.

"Sure. What is it?" He mumbled. His expression is blank.

"Sana hindi na mangyayari 'yong incident no'ng bago ako pumunta sa isla." Umpisa
niya. Humigit ulit siya ng malalim na paghinga.

Vance gave her a puzzling look.

"I am not comfortable seeing people kissing torridly in flesh." Lakas-loob niyang
hayag.

Vance questioning eyes turned into amusement.

"Are

you sure you're asking me that?" Nakangisi nitong tanong. He removed his eyeglasses
and leaned on the table.

Her face reddened when he moved his face closer to hers. His green eyes are still
amused.

Napalunok siya.

Shit. Why does he have to be this intimidating?

"Yes or no?" Nakangiti nitong tanong. His voice sounds teasing.

"Yes." Tugon na lamang niya para panindigan ang naunang pahayag. Hindi naman talaga
siya kumportable kung sakaling may mga babaeng pupunta ng opisina nito at bigla na
lang maghalikan ang mga ito.

"Bakit kaya mo na bang panindigan kung sakaling ikaw na lang ang babae sa buhay
ko?" Seryoso itong tumitig sa kanya.
"Ano?!" Hindi makapaniwala niyang bulalas.

Vance chuckled.

"There's a danger if you'll only be the woman these eyes will see. Kakayanin mo
ba?" His eyebrows rose.

Bigla siyang natuliro. She knows that he's only joking but she doesn't know what to
answer.

"What are you saying?" She asked averting her gaze. Natawa ulit ang binata sa
reaksyon niya.

"You're crazy." She mumbled. Mas lalo itong napatawa.

Tiningnan niya ito ng masama. Pero hinuli lang nito ang mga titig niya. She was
caught between averting her gaze or staring at his handsome face. She chose the
latter.

"You have beautiful deep-set eyes and curly long eyelashes." Komento nito. He was
smiling as he said it.

"...and sultry lips." He added winking.

Shit.

"Stop

flirting Vance." Sa wakas ay nasambit niya. Ibinaling niya sa ibang direksyon ang
tingin pero hindi niya rin napigilang mapasulyap nang sumagot ito.

"I was only admiring your ravishing look. It's not flirting." He said smiling.

She wasn't able to avert her gaze right away.

"But I will be glad to show you how real flirting is." Mas lalo pa nitong inilapit
ang mukha na sanhi para mapaatras siya ng kaunti. Natawa ito sa naging reaksyon.
Umayos ito ng upo at napapangiti habang titig na titig pa rin sa kanya.

"Alam mo mas okay kapag hindi ka nagsasalita. Puro kasi kabastusan ang lumalabas sa
bibig mo kapag nagsasalita ka." Hindi niya alam kung saan nanggaling ang lakas ng
loob niya para sabihin ang mga bagay na iyon.

Vance only laughed at her remark. Buti na lang dumating na ang order nila.

Pasulyap-sulyap ito at pangiti-ngiti habang kumakain sila. She tried to ignore his
antics.

Umpisa pa lang pero ganito na ang nangyayari. Paano pa kaya kapag sila na lang sa
opisina?

How could she ever stand this man?

Pero siguro seryoso naman ito pagdating sa trabaho. Maybe this was just a side of
his personality that she wasn't used to.

______

Pareho silang tahimik nang pabalik na ng opisina. Vance became silent again.

Pagbalik nila sa loob ng opisina ay may MacBook na sa table niya at may mga usb
cords nang nakakabit. May telepono na rin doon.
Vance told her that the MacBook is directly connected to all the cameras around the
laboratory so she could monitor all activities inside the lab. Ang telepono ay
konektado

rin sa intercom sa lab at puwede niyang tawagan ng direkta ang mga tao doon.

Vance also asked her to give a report about her stay at the island. Kasama ng lahat
ng suggestions at recommendations niya. Mabuti na lang naumpisahan na niya kanina.

The teasing Vance at the restaurant suddenly disappeared. Naging seryoso ito sa
pagbibigay ng direksyon sa mga gagawin niya. She pretty liked it that way.

Pero habang nasa sarili nitong table ang lalaki ay hindi niya mapigilang sulyapan
ito. Sa halip na iusog niya ang swivel palikod para hindi siya makita ay mas
iniusog pa niya itong paharap para makita ang ginagawa nito.

She's intrigue about his changing personality. Gahibla nga yata talaga ang pagitan
ng pagiging genius at pagiging baliw.

Napailing na lamang siya at itinuloy ang ginagawa.

______

Napapitlag siya nang maramdamang nakatayo na pala ang binata sa harap ng table
niya.

"You're too busy. It's already seven in the evening." Saad nito. She momentarily
closed her eyes.
Alas singko lang kanina nang tingnan niya ang oras. Nahiya kasi siyang tumayo dahil
subsob ito sa ginagawa sa laptop nito kaya itinuloy na lamang niya ang ginagawa
kanina. Nahiya rin siyang magtanong kung puwede na siyang umuwi kaya ibinalik niya
ang atensyon sa ginagawa.

Dalawang oras na pala ang nakalilipas. Ganoon kasi siya kapag naka-concentrate sa
ginagawa, hindi niya namamalayan ang oras. Lalong-lalo na't na-cha-challenge siyang
gumawa ng recommendations.

"Let's

grab a bite. Hatid na lang kita pagkatapos." Saad ni Vance.

"Huwag na. Dala ko 'yong sasakyan ko." She said turning off the computer.

"Mag-convoy na lang tayo."

Napatingin siya sa binata. Hinihintay naman siya nitong sumagot. She didn't have
the guts to disagree any further. Kasalanan ng berde nitong mga mata kung hindi
siya makatanggi.

They were silent during dinner. Mukhang nagutom rin yata ang binata kagaya niya.
Nakahanap na yata siya ng kapareho na hindi nakararamdam ng gutom kapag naka-
concentrate sa pagta-trabaho. Ganoon kasi siya, saka lang nakararamdam ng gutom
kapag nadi-distract siya sa ginagawa.

"Mag-isa ka lang ba sa condo mo?" tanong nito nang kumakain na sila ng dessert.

"Why are you asking?" She didn't know why she sounded defensive.

Vance chuckled.

"We'll I am just making sure na walang magagalit kapag umuwi ka ng late."

Her forehead creased at what he said.

"You see the night is still young. We can still go somewhere else to celebrate your
first day at the office." Nakangiti nitong dagdag

"Saan naman?" tanong niya nang wala nang masabi.

May dapat bang ipag-celebrate?

"Bar?" Balik-tanong ni Vance.

"Wala na bang iba?"

"Hotel. Gusto mo?" He asked teasing.

Napailing siya. Hindi yata talaga nawawala ang kahalayan nito kapag nakikipag-usap.

"Bar na lang." Tugon niya sa binata.

"Alright. That's a deal." Nakangiti nitong saad.

Shit. Did she just agree to go out with him after their dinner?

She's

doomed. She needs to remind herself to say no next time.

_______

Magkatabi sina Thea at Vance na nakaupo sa stool ng bar counter. Ang binata ay
nakaupo paharap sa direksyon niya nang masulyapan niyang nakangiti ito.

Napakunot ang noo niya nang sundan ang tingin ni Vance.

May babaeng nakaupo sa likuran niya at ngiting-ngiti sa binata.

She inhaled deeply to calm herself.

Wala siyang dapat ikainis. It's not like they are dating.

Mabuti na lang at umalis din ang babae.

They were both silent. Nagsisisi siya kung bakit sumama pa siya sa binata.

How could she enjoy this chillin' thing? Hindi naman sila nag-uusap.

Napakunot-noo ulit siya nang makitang nakangiti na naman ang lalaking katabi. She
only understood why when a girl passed by at kumindat pa sa binata.

Ang landi talaga ng lalaking 'to.

"Ganyan ka ba talaga?" tanong niya sa binata.

"What do you mean?" He looked at her baffled.

"Are you really going to ogle and smile at every woman in this place?" taas-kilay
niyang tanong rito. Seriously, it disgusts her.

"I wasn't ogling. Heck, I wasn't even smiling at them." Nakangisi nitong tugon.

"Seriously?" She asked with a smirk.

He's not smiling at them? That's totally funny.

Vance's face turned serious.

"They are smiling at me. I was just smiling back at them. It's called courtesy."
Lumapit ito at tumitig ng mataman sa mga mata niya. She felt intimidated but she
shakes it off.

"Courtesy? Really?" She muttered chuckling.

Baka flirting. She wanted to add but she stopped herself.

Napailing ang binata bago ibinalik ang tingin sa kanya.

"Yes it is." Diretso nitong saad. Halata ang pagkapikon sa mukha nito.

"You brought me here and then you keep looking around and smiling. Is that
courtesy?" tanong niya rito.

His serious aura turned into amusement.

"Why? Am I not allowed to look at other women inside this place?" He asked with a
wide grin. He moved his face closer.

"Kaya mo bang panindigan kung sakaling sa 'yo lang ako tititig?" Ngiting-ngiti
nitong dagdag.
Shit.

Bigla siyang nakaramdam ng pagkaasiwa sa paglapit nito.

She averted her gaze and immediately drank the wine in her glass.

She heard his soft chuckles. Pakiramdam niya ay mas lalo pa itong lumapit sa kanya.

[A/N: Nahulaan niyo ba ang sayaw ni Vance? Hehe!]

=================

6: GET IN!

"Kaya mo bang panindigan kung sakaling sa 'yo lang ako tititig?" Vance uttered
smiling widely.

Itinungga ni Thea ang natitirang laman ng baso niya bago hinarap ang binata.
"I can, if and only if, you can also answer my question." Sinalubong niya ang mga
titig ng binata.

Vance smiled knowingly. Uminom ito mula sa hawak na kopita bago tumitig sa kanya ng
matiim. She could see his piercing green eyes behind his wide eyeglasses.

"Sure," He muttered wryly. The bartender gave him another shot.

She inhaled deeply before speaking.

"Kung pinandigan mo lahat ng babaeng naikama mo, ilan na lahat ang asawa mo?"

Halos maibuga nito ang iniinom na alak nang marinig ang tanong niya. Naubo pa ito
ng kaunti bago tumingin sa kanya ng hindi makapaniwala.

He opened his mouth to speak but no words came out. Itinikom ulit nito ang bibig
saka humarap sa bartender at humingi ng isa pang shot.

Her insides are laughing but she tried to mask her face with a blank expression.
Lalo na nang tumingin ulit ito sa kanya.

Hindi nagsalita si Vance. She felt like he wanted to say something but decided to
close his mouth.

Hindi ba talaga nito mabilang kung nakailang babae na? O baka nahiya sa figures?

How awful?

"I was fifteen when I had my first. How could I possibly memorize the figures?" He
muttered loud enough to hear.

She saw him shaking his head before taking another shot.

Napatawa siya ng mahina. Sineryoso

talaga nito ang tanong niya.

"You could even memorize the atomic numbers of elements and different chemical
formulae. How did you lost count of the women you bedded?" diretso niyang tanong
rito.

Vance stared at her.

"There are things that you don't count." Depensa nito.

"Talaga?" Natatawa niyang sambit.

The genius Vance can not even answer her question coherently. Katulad lang din pala
ito ng ibang kalalakihan na mga babae ang kahinaan.

"Why don't you just say 'you can't' instead of asking that?" Inis nitong sambit.
Mas lalo siyang napatawa.

"In fairness to me, hindi ko talaga alam na hindi mo na mabilang ang mga babaeng
naikama mo." Natatawa niyang depensa.

Vance pursed his lips. Mukhang nainis na talaga ito.

"I know that you are aware of those women. You saw me twice." Gigil nitong sambit
bago itinungga ang laman ng baso nito.

Bigla siyang pinamulahan.

So, Vance was completely aware of the first time she saw him having sex?

Kaya pala sinabi nito na sa pangatlong beses na makita niya ulit ito ay isasali
na... Ugh! That convo again... She shook her head to brush the thought off and drew
a deep breath.

"So, seryoso hindi mo talaga mabilang? Kawawa naman ang mga babaeng 'yon." Natatawa
niyang sambit para mailihis ang iniisip.

"They're not pathetic. They actually enjoyed being with me." Tugon nito.

"Umuulit naman ba? Baka naman hanggang one-night stand ka lang?" natatawa niyang
saad.

"Stop pissing me off." He muttered with a grimace.

She

actually thought that statement would backfire on her. Pero mas naghari yata ang
inis nito kaya hindi na ito nakasagot ng maayos.

Gusto niyang mapahalakhak pero pinigilan niya ang sarili. Sa wakas, nakabawi na
siya sa lahat ng mga pang-iinis nito.

"Vance, baby. It's been a long time."

Napalis ang ngiti niya at napatingin sa babaeng palapit sa kinauupuan ng binata.

She looks gorgeous and classy.

"Hi Gwenn!" Vance greeted back with a smile.

Sumulyap pa ito sa kanya na parang nang-aasar. Seriously?

Gustong-gusto yata talaga nito kapag pinagpipiyestahan ng mga babae. Sobrang

conceited.

Agad siyang tumayo at hinarang ang babae.

"He has a date." Taas-kilay niyang saad sa babae bago pa man ito tuluyang makalapit
sa binata. Inirapan niya ang binata. Natigilan pa yata ito sa ginawa niya.

"I'm the reason why it's been a long time." She said smirking at the woman.

"She's your date?" Tumingin ang babae kay Vance. Ngumiti ang binata ng alanganin
bago ito tumingin sa kanya. She smirked at him.

She smiled inwardly. Napanood na niya ang ganitong eksena sa mga trope movies. Ang
sarap palang gayahin.

"Thea," Vance muttered.

"His date slash girlfriend." Pagpapakilala niya sa sarili. She even extended her
hand for a handshake. Tumango lang ang babae bago umalis ng walang lingon-likod.

Napailing ang binata nang makaalis ang babae.

"You're very possessive." Nakangisi nitong sambit. Nginisihan lang niya ito.

"Huwag gano'n sweetheart, share your blessings." Natatawa nitong

sambit.

She can't help but roll her eyes. Kung boyfriend lang talaga niya ito baka nabato
na niya ng stiletto.

Walang share-share pagdating sa lalaki! Haha!

Bumalik siya sa pagkakaupo at itinuloy ang pag-inom.

"I didn't know you have that side." Natatawa nitong saad matapos ang ilang sandali.

"I didn't know you have that side, too." Sambit din niya.

"Crazy!" naiiling na bulalas ni Vance.

Napailing na lang din siya.

"Vance, uwi na ako." Paalam niya matapos ang ilang minuto. Ayaw na rin kasi niyang
dagdagan ang ininom niya baka hindi na siya makapag-drive ng maayos.

"Huwag muna. Hindi pa kita naisasayaw." Natatawa nitong tugon.

Her forehead creased.

"I'm still earning the courage to ask you to dance with me. Tapos uuwi ka na?"
Natatawa nitong dagdag.

Is this man for real?

Vance chuckled at her reaction.

"Malandi ka talaga 'no?" naiiling niyang saad. Tumawa naman ito.

"Ano? Sayaw tayo?" Kaswal nitong tanong nang makahuma.

"Seryoso?" Kunot-noo niyang balik-tanong.

"Yes. I've been contemplating about it the moment I sat here." Seryoso nitong saad.
Tumingin pa ito sa dancefloor. Saktong mellow music ang tugtog ng banda.

"Are you hitting on me?" Pinaningkitan niya ito ng mata.

Vance smiled seductively.

"Why? Were you hit?"

"Fuck!" She can't help but curse.

"Sure! I'd love that." Agad nitong sambit pagkarinig sa sinabi niya.

"Ano?!"

Kulang na lang ay mapatayo siya mula sa kinauupuan.

Sobrang landi lang talaga ng lalaking kaharap.

"Madali lang akong kausap." Nakangisi nitong saad.

"Are you seriously asking me that?" She asked mimicking his reaction the last time.

"The word came from you." He muttered grinning.

"It's an expression of disgust and more than that." Wala sa loob niyang sambit. She
averted her gaze but ended up looking back at his green eyes.

"No. It is an action word." Giit nito. He even winked.

Hindi niya alam kung ano ang dapat isipin sa mga sinasabi nito.

"So?" Tinanggal nito ang suot na eyeglasses at tumitig sa kanya ng diretso. He

moved his face an inch closer. Pasimple siyang humigit ng paghinga.

His nearness affects her entire being. Huwag lang siya nitong hahawakan baka
bumigay siya kahit na hindi niya sigurado kung nanunudyo lang ito.

"Walang grado 'yang mga mata mo 'no? Why do you have to wear eyeglasses?" pag-iiba
niya ng usapan.

"That's no longer your concern, Thea. C'mon, let's dance." Inilahad nito ang mga
kamay.

Kung may isang bagay na pumipigil sa kanya para isiping maniac ang binata iyon ay
dahil sa kabila ng mga sinasabi nitong kabastusan hindi nito ni minsan hinawakan
ang kahit na anong parte ng katawan niya.

Inilalapit lang nito ang mukha sa mukha niya pero ni minsan ay hindi dumapo ang
balat nito sa kanya. Kaya kahit anong sabihin nito ay hindi siya tuluyang
natatakot.

Ngumiti ang binata nang iabot niya ang palad sa nakalahad nitong kamay.

Agad siya nitong hinila papunta sa dancefloor.

He guided her hands to hold his nape.

Nakita niya ang paghinga nito ng malalim bago hinawakan ang baywang niya. Hindi pa
ito tuluyang lumapit. Kung hindi lang niya nakita ang binata sa mga hindi kanais-
nais na sitwasyon, iisipin niyang hindi ito sanay sa babae. He's so gentle. Parang
ingat na ingat ito sa paghawak sa baywang niya.

She regretted inhaling deeply. Naamoy kasi niya ang pamilyar nitong pabango. That
manly sweet scent. Hindi niya napigilang lumapit sa dibdib nito. That's when she
felt him tightening his hold on her waist. Hanggang sa halos yakap-yakap na nila
ang isa't-isa.

Why is the music sweet?

Hindi puwedeng palitan ng party song?

She almost had goosebumps when she felt him sniffing her hair.

"You smell so sweet." He mumbled in her ear. Tuluyan na siyang napapikit para
pigilan ang pagtaas ng balahibo niya sa katawan.

Shit. His effect is so strong.

"You have no idea, how long I've waited to hold you like this." He mumbled.

Napatingala siya sa binata nang marinig ang sinabi nito. Her heart started beating
erratically.

"How long?" tanong niya rito.

Matagal na bang may gusto ang lalaki sa kanya?

Vance smiled. Iniangat nito ang isang kamay at tumingin sa relo.

"Like two hours ago," he said chuckling.

"Didn't I tell you I've been contemplating to dance with you the moment I sat
infront of the bar counter?" Natatawa nitong dugtong.

Parang nabitin pa sa ere ang pagtibok ng puso niya.

Inis siyang bumitaw sa pagkakahawak

rito at umalis ng dancefloor.

Paasa!

If he thinks he could treat her like how he treats all his women, he's wrong.

Tuloy-tuloy siyang naglakad patungong sa exit.

"Hey, Thea! What's the matter?" rinig niyang habol nito pero nagtuloy-tuloy siya
hanggang sa car park.
She's about to open her car when he snatched her keys.

"Akin na 'yan." Kalmado niyang saad pero itinaas nito ang kamay na may hawak ng
susi.

"Care to explain why you suddenly walked out?"

Pa-fall ka kasi. She wanted to lash out but that would be immature and unlikely of
her.

"I'm not like the woman, you've been dating Vance. Don't treat me like one of
them." Diretso niyang saad rito. Mabuti na 'yong malinaw.

"You don't have to remind me. I knew that eversince." Diretso rin nitong tugon.
Sinalubong nito ang mga titig niya.

"Eversince I walked out that bar?" She asked raising an eyebrow.

"You're already tipsy. I'll drive you home." Saad nito. Umikot ito at binuksan ang
passenger's side ng kotse.

She's not tipsy. She's completely aware of everything. Alam niyang mataas ang
alcohol tolerance niya.

"C'mon Vance, you knew it like three minutes ago?" Humalukipkip siya at hindi
gumalaw mula sa kinatatayuan. Gusto niya ng diretsong kasagutan sa tanong niya.
Ayaw niyang umasa gaya ng nangyari kani-kanina lang.

Vance inhaled deeply.

"You are not like the women I bedded, Thea Kimberly." Tumitig ito sa kanya ng
matiim. She tried to suppress the fast beating of her heart but she can't. Napagkit
ang mga mata niya sa mga berde nitong mga mata.

"AND I knew it like more than half of my life." He added. It felt like his green
eyes are piercing through her soul.

"Now, get in." Turo nito sa sasakyan.

Hindi na siya nagprotesta pa at pumasok na lang sa nakabukas na pinto.

Kasalanan ng mga berde nitong mga mata.

[A/N: Minors, skip the next part! JOKE! Wala pa. Hahaha!]

=================

7: Pagalingan

Thea expected the silence inside her car.

Nababasa na niya ang galaw ni Vance. After talking a lot, he'd suddenly keep quiet.
Hindi mahulaan kung seryoso ba ito o hindi.

His silence kills her.

Gustong-gusto niyang itanong kung seryoso ba ito sa sinabi kanina o hindi pero
naisip niyang magmumukha lang siyang ewan. She'd rather want him speak up
voluntarily than to appear like she's insinuating something.

"Gusto mong magkape muna?" tanong niya nang makababa sila ng sasakyan. They are
already at the car park of the condo tower.

Vance looked at her.

Napalunok pa siya.

Did she just give herself away with that invitation?

"Diyan lang sa café. Pa-thank you sa paghatid mo sa 'kin." Nahihiya niyang dugtong.

Ngumiti ito ng tipid bago nagsalita.

"Hindi na. It's already late. We still have work tomorrow." Tugon nito. Pakiramdam
niya ay napahiya siya. This is the second time that he turned down her invitation.
'Yong una noong nanggaling sila ng isla.

"Okay. Good night, then." Pinilit niyang ngumiti sa kabila ng pagkapahiya.

Tumango lang ang binata.

Hinintay na lamang niyang ibalik nito ang susi ng sasakyan niya. Inihatid pa kasi
siya, magtataxi tuloy pabalik ng bar dahil naiwan doon ang sasakyan nito.

"I'll go ahead." Sambit nito at bumalik na sa driver's side.

Napakunot-noo siya.

Is he taking away her car?

Hindi siya agad nakakilos mula sa kinatatayuan.

Nakita

niyang ibinaba nito ang bintana ng sasakyan at dumungaw.

"I'll fetch you tomorrow at around 9 A.M." sambit nito bago tuluyang pinasibad ang
sasakyan.

She was left dumbfounded.

Nakalimutan ban g binata na sasakyan niya ang gamit nito?

__________

Alas otso pa lang ng umaga ay bihis na si Thea. Bumaba na siya ng lobby para
hintayin si Vance.

She's torn between waiting for him or just hailing a cab. 9A.M. kasi ang official
time niya sa opisina. Ayaw na ayaw niya ang nale-late sa kahit na anong bagay. Kung
hihintayin pa niya ang binata, talagang mali-late na siya.

Pero kung kasama naman niya ang boss, maituturing pa bang late iyon?

She's fidgeting while seating at the waiting area at the condo tower's lobby.

Ano ba kasing naisipan ng isang 'yon at itinakbo ang sasakyan niya kagabi?

Huminga siya ng malalim. Hindi siguro sanay ang binata na mag-taxi.

Napagpasyahan niyang mag-commute na lang papuntang opisina at nag-text na lang kay

Vance na nauna na siya.

Wala pa ang binata nang makarating siya sa opisina.

Agad niyang tinungo ang table at nag-umpisa na agad sa ginagawang recommendations.

"You were not answering my calls."

Agad siyang napatayo nang marinig ang boses ni Vance. She felt a little nervous.

"Naka-silent kasi 'yong phone ko. Sorry." She apologized.

"Where's your report? I need it. Send

it to the e-mail pinned on your desktop." Saad ng binata. Dumiretso ito sa puwesto
at agad na naupo. "Tinatapos ko pa. Can I send it after an hour or two?" tugon niya
rito. Vance stared at her. Parang naasiwa pa siya sa mga titig nito.

His mood is a bit off. She can feel it but she's not yet done with her report. She
doesn't want to submit a half-cooked report. Kaya nilakasan niya ang loob na magpa-
extend ng kahit isa o dalawang oras lang.

She thought he'd get mad but he later nodded and never spoke.

Agad naman siyang bumalik sa ginagawa.

Hindi niya mapigilang mapasulyap sa binata na kanina pa subsob sa dokumentong

hawak. Napaka-seryoso ng aura nito. He keeps jotting down something.

Ibinalik na lamang niya ang atensyon sa ginagawa.

Mahigit isang oras ang ginugol niya sa ginagawa bago nai-send ang ginawang report.

"We're already doing these things in the laboratory." Malakas na sambit ni Vance.
Wala pa yatang limang minuto matapos niyang isinumite ang ginawa, may komento na
agad ito.

Lumapit siya sa table nito at umupo sa kaharap na silya.

"These bio-friendly whatever, liquifying some medicines are already being done in
the lab. I need something innovative." Pagpapatuloy nito.

Her heart beats raced at his bluntness. She inhaled deeply to pacify her heart.

"I know but the suggestions are for cost effective measures. It would get the same
result but you don't have to spend much especially for the transformation of wasted
chemicals to environmental friendly ones." Paliwanag niya rito. Halos lahat kasi
nang nasa laboratory ay ginawan niya ng proseso kung paano

mababawasan ang gastos sa paggawa.

"I don't mind spending much if it's for the environment." Vance muttered. She
wasn't able to answer right away.

"Besides the in-house chemical engineers can also do this kind of alterations."
Dagdag nito. Tuluyan na siyang tinakasan ng kulay sa tahasan nitong pag-reject sa
ginawa niya.

Dumugo ang utak niya kakaisip sa mga inilagay niya sa report, mare-reject lang pala
ng gano'n lang.

"Why do you still need another Chemical Engineer? Kaya naman pala nila." Tanong
niya sa binata.

Napatitig naman ito sa kanya.

"For innovations since you worked abroad. Do some research about latest upgrades in
equipments and laboratories. If you can think of something that is not yet done in
any of the labs, we can do it, invent our own."

Parang nalula pa siya sa mga sinabi nito. Pakiramdam niya ay sobrang taas ng tingin
nito sa kakayahan niya. She wants to feel flattered but she's a bit afraid she'll
fall short of his expectations.

Napilitan siyang ngumiti ng tipid at tumango nang maghintay ito ng reaction mula sa
kanya. He nodded dismissing her.

She silently stood up and walk back to her table.

Magsisimula na sana siya sa pagtipa ng keyboard nang tumayo ang binata.

"I'm going out for a snack. Gusto mong sumama?" tanong nito.

Ngumiti sya ng tipid.

"Okay lang ako. Ikaw na lang." Nahihiya niyang tugon rito.

"Mamaya mo na gawin

'yan. Mag-snack ka muna." Giit nito.

"Sabay na lang ako kay Arnie." Tugon niya rito. Arnie is Vance's secretary.

He pursed his lips before he stepped towards the door. Nakahinga siya ng maluwag ng
lumabas ito. Dahil sa pagsama-sama niya sa binata nakalimutan niyang maaari pa rin
siyang pagalitan nito dahil boss niya pa rin ito.

Sumunod din siyang lumabas at nakisabay sa sekretarya papunta sa food court ng

building matapos lang ang ilang minuto.
______

Kinabahan siya nang makitang nakaupo na ang binata sa puwesto nito pagpasok niya.
Ngumiti siya nang mag-angat ito ng tingin.

Lalagpasan na sana niya ang table nito nang mahagip ng mata niya ang sinusulat
nito. She wasn't able to control herself from asking.

"What are you doing?" tanong niya rito at tumunghay sa hawak nitong bond paper.

"I'm trying to recall them all. Kailangan ba talaga exact number? How would you
counter check the figures?" sunod-sunod nitong tanong.

Her forehead creased but when she realized what he means and how it is connected to
the name of girls in the paper she wanted to burst in laughter.

Pero nabitin sa ere ang akmang pagtawa niya nang makitang seryoso ang mukha ng
kausap.

"Kahit talaga matatalino, natatanga rin minsan 'no?" Pinigil niya ang sariling
matawa pero napatawa pa rin siya ng mahina.

"You said if I could tell you how many women then you can--" He stopped and inhaled
deeply. She pursed her lips to stop herself from laughing out louder.

"I'm taking your word for it." Sambit nito.

"You're crazy!" Tuluyan na siyang napatawa.

Napatigil lang siya nang makitang seryoso na talaga ang mukha nito. Mukha na naman
itong pikon.

Huminga siya ng malalim.

"Akin na pala 'yong susi ng sasakyan ko." Saad niya rito para ilihis ang usapan.

Nakahinga siya ng maluwag nang makitang naglaho ang seryoso nitong aura kanina.

"Ihahatid pa kita mamaya pauwi," nakangisi nitong tugon.

"Tapos iuuwi mo na naman ang sasakyan ko? Akin na 'yong susi. Kaya kong mag-drive
pauwi." Inilahad niya ang kamay. Vance stared at her open palm.

"Ihahatid lang kita. You can get it after." He smiled.

"Alam mo ba ang salitang carnapping?" tanong niya nang hindi pa nito nilalabas ang
susi. Her palm remained open.

Vance inhaled deeply.

He pulled the drawer and brought out her keys. Kinuha naman niya ito bago pa nito
bawiin.

"Thanks," she muttered. He didn't say a word.

"Don't bother remembering those girls you bedded. Masisira lang utak mo." Natatawa
niyang saad bago tumalikod para tunguhin ang sariling table.

"What if I can count them all?" Naghahamon namang tanong ng binata. Napatigil siya
at napatingin sa binata.
"You can't." She answered smiling.

"How sure are you?" He asked.

"Because the last woman you kissed in this office isn't Karina. Her name's Karell.
Kasama mo pa lang limot mo na, how much more those you were with the past years?"
Saad niya sa binata.

Vance stared at her with a creased forehead.

"Are you saying that you probably can't stand me?" Vance asked with a serious tone.

Napalunok siya. She doesn't know what to answer.

Wala nang nakapagsalita pa sa kanilang dalawa dahil pumasok na ang sekretarya nito
at ipinaalala ang outdoor meeting na dadaluhan ng binata.

=================

8: Gerberas

Thea was surprised to see flowers on her table the next morning. Walang nakalagay
kung kanino galing. But she knows it probably came from Vance. Hindi nga lang niya
sigurado ang intensiyon nito.

There are times when she feels like he's trying to test her. Parang tinatantiya
nito kung bibigay siya sa mga sinasabi nito. Gano'n naman karamihan ang mga lalaki.
At least most of the men she knew and she is sure Vance isn't an exemption.

Kakaupo pa lang niya nang pumasok si Vance na may dalang dalawang mug ng kape mula
sa isang sikat na café.

"I thought of bringing you one." Inilapag nito ang mug sa table niya. She stared at
it for a moment to gather the words in her mind.
"Thanks! Kay Arnie mo na lang ibigay, nagkape na kasi ako kanina." Sambit niya sa
binata.

"She already has one." Tugon naman nito.

"Mahina kasi ako sa caffeine." Aniya. She appreciates the gesture but she can only
take a cup in the morning and she already had one for breakfast.

"Okay." Vance muttered. Binuhat nito ang mug at dinala sa mini-kitchen. He poured
the content to the sink bago itinapon ang mug sa basurahan.

Kailangan talaga itapon?

Napakagat pa siya sa labi. Hindi naman niya alam na maa-upset ito sa pagtanggi
niya.

She looked away nang dumaan ito sa table niya.

"By any chance do you like the flowers?" tanong nito ng makatapat.

So, sa binata talaga nanggaling ang bulaklak?

Why?

Has it something to do with their convo yesterday?

Does he see her as a challenge?

Hindi pa siya nakasasagot nang magsalita ulit ang binata.

"Kasi kung ayaw mo, itatapon ko na lang din."

"The flowers are beautiful." Tugon niya. Sayang kung sa basurahan lang ito
mapupunta. Gusto sana niyang itanong kung bakit siya nito binigyan ng bulaklak pero
naunahan siya ng hiya.

"For you what's the most beautiful flower?" tanong nito. His expression is blank.
Hindi niya tuloy sigurado kung ano ang nararamdaman nito. The man is quite
unpredictable.

"Gerberas." Tugon niya rito.

Natigilan siya nang damputin nito ang bulaklak sa lamesa niya at idineretso sa
basurahan.

"Bakit mo itinapon?" Kunot-noo niyang tanong.

"Those are red roses not gerberas." Tugon nito bago lumabas ng opisina.

For the nth time, she was left dumbfounded.

Is the man for real?

Ano bang gusto nitong mangyari?

_______

Tapos na ang lunch break nang bumalik ang binata sa loob ng opisina. Blangko ang
ekspresyon nito at hindi man lang nagsalita nang makapasok.

She inhaled deeply and closed her eyes.

How could she work if she'd stay inside the office of her unpredictable and quite
weird boss?

Mas gugustuhin na lang yata niyang sa isla na lang magtrabaho.

"Hey Thea! Are you sure about this?"

Napapitlag siya nang magsalita si Vance. Napatuwid

pa siya ng upo. Tumayo ito at tinungo ang table niya.

"Pa-open 'yong report na pinasa mo sa akin." Saad nito. He moved towards her back
at nakitunghay sa monitor. Nakita pala agad nito ang ipinasa niyang report kanina
bago mag-lunch.
She let him see the plan for lab upgrade.

"Pa-open nga 'yong blueprint ng structural design sa lab." Utos nito. She clicked
the app connected to the laboratory.

"So we can put the machine here that would separate the chemicals for capsule,
tablets and liquids all in one." Turo nito sa monitor. Ipinatong ng binata ang
isang kamay sa table niya. Kulang na lang ay dumikit ang dibdib nito sa likod niya.
She could even smell his scent.

"Yup, bale isahan para iisa lang ang concentration whether it's tablet, capsule or
liquid med." Tugon niya rito.

She inhaled deeply and momentarily closed her eyes. She needs to concentrate.

"I've also been thinking about the possibility of this. I just didn't have the time
to pull it together. Marami kasi akong inaasikaso." Saad nito.

Napatango siya. At least, he didn't reject her proposal.

"Do all the necessary planning. You may talk to the in-house chemical engineers and
chemists." Saad nito.

Gusto niyang tingnan ang mukha nito para makita ang ekspresyon nito pero nahihiya
siyang tumingala. Nakadukwang pa rin kasi ito mula sa likuran niya.

He's so near she could feel his breathing. Tapos ang bango-bango pa. She feels like
she needs more oxygen.

"If you need funds, just prepare the requests. I will sign." Dagdag nito.

Nakihinga siya ng maluwag nang sa wakas ay tumayo ito ng tuwid.

"I'll lay out the entire plan. Pag-aaralan ko muna ang posibleng loopholes." Tugon
niya sa binata. Pasimple siyang humigit ng malalim na paghinga.

Does he really trust her that much?

"Alright. Take your time." Saad nito bago bumalik sa table nito. Napatango na lang
siya.

She spent the entire afternoon lay-outing the entire plan. Nakatutok lang siya sa
laptop para mag-research ng posibleng maging problema kapag isinagawa na ang
upgrade. She also made some phone calls to the in-house chemists.

Si Vance ay busy din sa table nito. Paminsan-minsan ding pumapasok ang sekretarya
para sa mga bilin nito.

"I ordered pizza."

Napatingala siya nang magsalita ang binata. Nakasunod na ito sa sekretarya papunta
sa mini-kitchen dala ang pizza at tatlong shake.

Sumunod na lang din siya.

Arnie was already eating a slice when she joined them. Kung single lang ang babae
at hindi mas matanda sa kanila iisipin niyang third wheel lang siya. Masaya kasi
ang dalawang nag-uusap na parang nagde-date lang.

"Alam mo ba Engineer na si sir Vance ang pinakamabait sa triplets?" saad ng

sekretarya paglapit niya.

"Oh? Sinasabi mo lang yan kasi siya ang boss mo." Natatawa niyang tugon rito.
Napatawa din ang isa.

Napailing lang ang binata sa tinuran niya. Naglagay ito ng pizza sa plate at
inilagay sa harap niya.

"Thanks." She mumbled.

"See. Sabi sa 'yo siya ang pinakamabait eh."

Nanunudyong saad ni Arnie.

"Isusumbong kita kina Leandrei at Vander." Natatawa niyang tugon rito. Nalaman din
kasi niya sa sekretarya na sa VLF building lahat ang opisina ng magkakapatid.
Magkakaibang floor nga lang.

"You know them?" Vance immediately butted in.

"No one doesn't know the three of you during high school." Ngumiti siya ng tipid.

"Talaga?" naiiling nitong komento. He took a bite of his pizza.

"I'm curious. Bakit pala hindi kayo pare-pareho ng section dati?" tanong niya sa
binata.

Tumingin naman ito sa kanya. For a moment, she thought he wouldn't answer her
question but he opened his mouth a moment later.

"Mom didn't want us together in a classroom baka daw puro kalokohan ang gagawin
namin." Natatawa nitong tugon.

"Good thinking." Natatawa niyang sambit.

"May gagawin pa pala ako. Iwan ko na kayo." Natatawa namang sambit ni Arnie. Kumuha
ito ng isang slice at binuhat ang isang shake.

"Sir, yong bonus ko, huwag mong kalimutan." Saad nito bago tuluyang umalis.

Tatlong buwan pa bago magpasko, nanghihingi na ng bonus?

Vance only answered with a chuckle.

Why does he have to look so handsome when he chuckles?

"Why did you take up Chemical Engineering? Fashion Designer ang ate mo 'di ba?"
tanong nito nang maiwan silang dalawa.

"You know my sister?" nagtataka niyang tanong rito.

"I saw her in mom's magazines at home long time ago." Sagot nito.

Her sister is famous in the fashion industry. Hindi

malayong doon nga nito nakita ang pangalan ng kapatid niya. Alam niyang madalas ma-
feature ang mga gawa ng kapatid niya sa magazines. In fact, she asked her once if
she could model one of her gowns, she just refused. Hindi niya hilig ang mag-model.

Napalunok siya nang tumitig si Vance sa kanya ng diretso at ngumiti.

"How did you know that she's my sister?" tanong niya ulit sa binata.

"Because you have the same surname and middle name?" Vance gave her a shrug.

"You know my middle name?" Mas lalo siyang na-curious. Hindi lang pala mga kaibigan
niya ang kabisado nito pati pala middle name niya.

"You've been the consistent salutatorian of our batch. How would I not know your
full name?"

Vance smiled widely.

Kinukutya yata siya nito dahil lagi siyang second best?

"Sabagay. I was always next to you." Napapatango na lamang niyang segunda.

"Why did that sound so nice?" Maagap na tugon ng binata. Mas lalong lumapad ang
ngiti nito.

Napalunok siya.

"Sa ranking list. 'Di ba lagi akong kasunod mo sa rank?"

Vance nodded and smiled at her remark.

"Always next to me." Nakangiti nitong sambit.

She suddenly felt awkward. Her heart started beating fast.

Kasi naman...Pa-fall talaga ang mga ngiti ng hayop.

Kung saan-saan niya ibinaling ang tingin para hindi masulyapan ang ngiting-ngiti
nitong mukha. Mas lalo kasing naghuhurumentado ang tibok ng puso niya.

Napadako ang mga mata niya sa wall clock.

"Uwian na pala." Sambit niya.

"Yes, actually." He replied. Napalis pa ang mga ngiti nito.

"Puwede na ba akong maunang umuwi?" lakas-loob niyang tanong. Kanina pa kasi siya
parang nauupos sa mga titig nito.

"Sure." He said nodding. She took that as a cue to stand and leave him there.

Agad niyang inayos ang gamit at tuluyan nang lumabas.

-------

Palabas na ang sasakyan niya sa basement nang makitang nakatayo sa may bukana si
Vance.

Kumatok ito sa bintana ng sasakyan niya nang tumigil siya.

"Vance?" she muttered as she opened the windshield.

Ngumiti ito ng alanganin.

Itatanong niya sana kung ano ang kailangan ng binata nang tumambad sa mga mata niya
ang hawak nitong palumpon ng bulaklak.
"Your gerberas were delivered late." Nakangiti nitong saad. Iniabot nito ang
palumpon. She didn't know why she immediately took it without a second thought.

Maybe it has something to do with the flowers...or his smile or maybe because his
gesture was so sincere.

"Drive safely. Ayaw mo naman kasing ipag-drive kita." Nakangiti nitong saad bago
tumalikod.

She inhaled deeply to stabilize the beating of her heart. Ngunit habang tinitingnan
niya ang bulto ng binatang papalayo parang mas lalong dumadagundong ang tibok ng
puso niya.

Nakuha na yata siya nang dahil sa gerberas.

Wtf!

[A/N: I won't be able to update until next week. I have a lot going on with my life
this week. Haha! HAPPY WORLD TEACHERS' DAY po sa lahat ng mga guro lalo na sa mga
tumatambay sa wattpad!]
=================

9: Eyeglasses

Thea was checking her bag when someone faked a cough. It's only few minutes before
8 A.M. Papunta na kasi siya ng opisina.

"Vance?" Nagtataka niyang sambit nang makita kung sino ang tumikhim.

"Good morning!" Nakangiti nitong bati. Nakatayo ito sa tabi ng sports car nito.

"Muntik na naman pala akong ma-late." Dugtong nito na ipinagtaka niya.

"What do you mean?" She asked with a creased forehead.

"Coding ang sasakyan mo 'di ba? I came here to fetch you."

Saglit siyang natigilan. Akala niya ay sasabihin nitong napadaan lang at nakita
siya. Now, he's telling it straight.

Sinadya siya talaga nitong sunduin?

She's not naïve. The flowers from yesterday really meant something.

"Are you advancing on me?" Her heart raced as she uttered her own question.

It beats faster when Vance smiled.

"What do you mean by advancing?" He asked with a grin. He removed his eyeglasses
and stared at her.

"Like flirting?" Napalunok siya sa naging tugon. Vance looked at her pretty amused.
"Flirting? No." He shook his head. Mas lalo na namang tumibok ang puso niya nang
ngumiti ito ng nakakaloko.

Bakit ba sobrang guwapo nito kahit mapang-asar ang ngiti?

"But I will be glad to show you my own definition of flirting." He said with a wide
grin. Iniumang nito ang kamay para hapitin siya pero umatras siya. Akmang sasalagin
niya ang kamay nito nang tumawa ito

ng malakas.

"Relax, I won't touch you." He said chuckling. Pinamulahan pa siya.

Masyado ba siyang naging defensive? Mukha naman talagang lalapitan siya.

"Let's go?" Anyaya nito at umikot pa para pagbuksan siya ng pinto ng sasakyan.

She inhaled deeply and didn't make any step.

"Why are you being nice? Why did you give me flowers? Are you courting me?"
Salubong ang kilay niyang tanong sa binata.

"Courting?" Parang nabitin pa sa ere ang reaksyon nito. Saglit itong natigilan. She
waited for him to speak. Then, he smiled widely.

"Is that how courting is? Hindi ko kasi alam." He smiled wryly. He leaned on the
opened car door and stared at her.

Siya naman ang natigilan sa pahayag ng binata. Hindi siya nakasagot agad.

"I don't usually give flowers to women." He added.

The remark rendered her speechless and it made her heart restless, too.
"Women usually offer their flowers to me." He added with a mischievous grin.

Pakiramdam niya ay nag-preno pa ang tibok ng puso niya.

"Bastos ka talaga!" Hindi niya napigilang sambitin na ikinatawa nito ng malakas.

Vance will always be Vance. May bahid talaga ng kamanyakan ang katawan.

"I was just kidding." Sambit nito nang makahuma mula sa pagtawa. She can't help but
roll her eyes on him but he only chuckled at her gesture.

"Tara na?" Seryoso nitong saad matapos

ang ilang saglit. He put his eyeglasses back.

Huminga na lang siya malalim bago naglakad papunta sa nakabukas na pintuan ng

sasakyan. Nakangiti naman nitong isinara pagkaupo niya.

She waited for him to sit on the driver's side.

"Huwag mo na 'tong isuot." Tinanggal niya ang suot nitong eyeglasses bago pa man
nito andarin ang sasakyan.

"Pareho naman nating alam na walang grado 'yang mga mata mo." She muttered smirking
at him. Napatitig naman ito sa kanya bago ngumiti ng matamis.

"Well, I am using those eyeglasses so women won't fall in-love with my green eyes."
Nakangisi nitong sambit. Tumitig ito sa kanya ng mataman.

Shit.

He may be right. Nakaka-inlove nga yata talaga ang mga berde nitong mga mata. She
can't avert her gaze even if her brain wants to. Her heartbeats started racing
again.

"But since you are the only woman here, I will allow you to take it off. You are
free to fall in-love with me." Seryoso nitong sambit bago humarap sa kalsada at
tuluyang inandar ang sasakyan.

Shit.

Kulang na lang ay saluhin niya ang puso na parang tuluyan nang nalaglag mula sa
dibdib niya.

She had to stop herself from breathing heavily especially that the man is only a
few inches away driving.

______

She expected the silence during their entire trip to the VLF building. Ayaw niyang
magsalita at hindi rin nagsasalita ang lalaking kasama. Gano'n yata talaga ang
personalidad nito. He'd

talk a lot then he'd be silent and leaves you wondering.

Kipkip ang bag at hawak pa rin niya ang eyeglasses nang papasok na sila sa opisina.

"Vance," tawag niya rito nang makapasok na sila at akmang didiretso na ito sa
sariling table.

"E-eyeglasses mo." Nahihiya niyang iniabot ang eyeglasses sa binata.

Vance's eyes were glued on his eyeglasses. He didn't move to receive it.

Her heart skipped a beat when his green eyes met hers. He wasn't smiling.

"Keep it. Ibalik mo na lang kung ayaw mo talagang ma-inlove sa akin." He said
before turning away. She was left dumbfounded.

Agad na tinungo ng binata ang desk nito at binasa ang nakapatong na dokumento.
Ilang segundo siyang nakatulala rito bago nagkaroon ng lakas ng loob na humakbang
patungo sa sariling mesa.

Mas lalong lumakas ang tibok ng puso niya nang makita ang palumpon ng paborito
niyang bulaklak sa table.

She glanced at Vance. His eyes are still on the documents. Tahimik siyang umupo sa
swivel chair.

Keep it. Ibalik mo na lang kung ayaw mo talagang ma-inlove sa akin.

His voice echoed on her ears as she stared at his eyeglasses and the flowers on the
table. Hindi niya alam kung ilang minuto siyang nakatitig doon. Natauhan lamang
siya nang maramdamang tumayo ang binata at tinungo ang pinto.

"Vance." She called out. Tumingin naman ito sa kanya.

Shit.

Why can't her heart stop beating that fast?

Agad siyang lumapit sa binata at iniabot ang eyeglasses nito. His forehead creased.
She inhaled deeply as he stared at it.

"So, you don't want to fall in love with me?" His voice sounds disappointed and
dejected.

Hindi niya alam kung bakit bigla siyang nainis sa sarili dahil sa nakitang reaksyon
ng binata.

Keep it. Ibalik mo na lang kung ayaw mo talagang ma-inlove sa akin.

She momentarily closed her eyes to stop that echoing remark on her head.

"Lalabas ka 'di ba?" she forced a smile. Tumango naman ito. His expression didn't
change.

"Baka makita ng ibang mga babae 'yang mga mata mo. Bawal silang ma-inlove sa 'yo,
remember?" nakangiti niyang dagdag.

She saw how his expression turned into a wide smile.

"Yeah," napapatango nitong tugon. Inabot nito ang eyeglasses at tumitig sa kanya ng
diretso.

"Bawal ka ring ma-inlove sa iba." Dugtong nito.

She wasn't able to say anything.

BUT that wasn't the reason why she stilled. Mabilis kasi itong lumapit sa kanya at
bigla na lang humalik sa mga labi niya. Mabilis ding lumayo ang binata at tinungo
ang pinto nang walang ibang salita.

It was a ONE-SECOND kiss but it totally made her static and speechless.

She felt like everything around her disappeared. The only thing that lingered was
the feel of his soft kiss and his sweet manly scent.

Though it was abrupt, she didn't feel aggravated.

Walang parte ng katawan nila ang nagdikit maliban sa kanilang mga labi at hindi
niya inasahang gano'n kalakas ang epekto ng isang segundong iyon.

She felt like her entire being flushed. She had to stop herself from touching her
own lips.

What the heck just happened?

=================

10: A Peek at Vance's Life

Vance almost punched himself when he went out of his office. He scolded himself for
not holding back. Sometimes, he wished his confidence just fades.

Ilang beses na niyang sinabihan ang sarili na hindi uubra kay Thea ang mga gano'ng
diskarte niya. She's not like any other girl who swoons over when he removes his
eyeglasses.

Ilang beses na bang nangyari 'yon noon. Wala itong kahit na anong reaksyon. Kung
ibang babae lang siguro ngitian na siya ng matamis at ilalapit ang mukha.
Hindi rin umuubra sa dalaga ang mga diskarte niya para maikama ang isang babae
katulad na lang nang pinapili niya ito kung anong flavor ang gusto nito. Many women
would take that as a hint and they'd even offer themselves.

Thea is different. She always gives him a glare when he'd hint that he wants her.
That's why he just keeps quiet. Pakiramdam niya kapag nagsalita pa siya makakarinig
na siya ng hindi maganda mula sa dalaga. He doesn't want that to happen.

Shaking his head, he proceeded to his scheduled meeting. Mabuti na lang sunod-sunod
ang meeting niya. If not, he wouldn't know how to stop himself from fantasizing the
woman after that swift kiss, if it really was a kiss. Hindi naman kasi gano'n ang
halik para sa kanya. Hehe!

______

It was already past 5 in the afternoon when he went back to his office. He tried
hard to act as calm as possible.

Ayaw sana niyang tumingin sa table ng dalaga pero hindi niya napigilan

ang sarili. To his dismay, Thea wasn't there.

Baka nag-CR lang. He went to his chair and check on the papers on his table.

Ilang minuto na pero wala pa rin ang dalaga. Kanina lang nagpapasalamat siya na may
mga meeting siya at hindi ito makakasama. Now, he suddenly misses her presence.

Tumayo siya para tingnan ang gamit nito. Her bag isn't there and her macbook is
already turned off.
Umuwi na ba ito?

O nilayasan na siya sa ginawa niyang paghalik rito ng walang paalam?

Fuck.

The last question made his knees quiver a little. No. Not a little. It really
quivered literally.

Agad niyang tinawagan si Arnie para itanong kung nasaan ang dalaga.

"Sir, maaga pong nag-out. May family dinner daw sila." The secretary informed.

Nakahinga pa siya ng maluwag.

Fuck.

Why did he get nervous of the thought that the kiss might've scared her away?

Does he really like her that much?

Tinapos niya ang lahat ng dokumentong dapat pirmahan bago tuluyang lumabas ng
opisina.
He went straight to Mac's penthouse. Mac is his long time friend. Ito lang ang
natatanging kaibigan niya sa labas ng bahay nila. The rest is an acquaintance for
him.

They've been friends since high school. Mac was a transferee in 8th grade.

"Mac!" He called out as he opened the door to his unit. He has access to his house.
Madalas siyang tumambay sa unit nito kahit wala ang kaibigan sa bansa.

He walked through his wide living

room. Nagkalat ang mga damit nito sa kung saan. He smirked when he saw a woman's
lingerie.

Dire-diretso siya sa kuwarto ng kaibigan. He was right. Rinig na rinig niya ang
halinghing nila ng babae nito.

"Hey, Macintosh! Make that fast! Inuman tayo!" Sigaw niya sa kaibigan. Mac looked
at the doorway.

"Fuck off!" sigaw nito. Natatawa naman niyang isinara ang pinto bago tinungo ang
kusina nito.

He rummaged his friend's kitchen and eats whatever is in his fridge. Hindi ito
nawawalan ng pagkain sa ref. Kailangan daw kasi ng mga babae nito ang pagkain kapag
sobrang pagod.

Napailing siya sa naisip.

Mac was that friend who taught him all the vices he knew. Lalo na ang pambababae.
He was their school's number one bully. Laging kliyente ng Prefect of Discipline.
Hindi nga lang na-kickout dahil kapatid ng mommy nito ang may-ari ng school.
Naging magkaibigan sila nang subukan nitong i-bully siya. Mac thought he was a
nerdy coward at school. Hinamon siya nito ng suntukan pero nang suntukin na siya ay
nailagan niya. He pushed a nerve at the back of Mac's neck making him unconscious.
Then, he tied him at the rooftop. Kung wala pang naligaw na nagde-date nilang
schoolmate ng dismissal time baka napagsarhan na ito ng school.

He didn't know why since then they became friends but their friendship was
discreet. He was his partner in crime literally. Kasama niya itong nangha-hack ng
system sa school. Kasama siya nitong nag-install

ng camera sa mga girl's locker room na wala ni isang nakaalam.

Mac taught him how to bed a girl by just batting an eye.

He may be a bad influence but for him, he was a breather. Nakakapagod din kasi
minsang maging mabait. Pero hindi kailanman siya nito ipinahuli sa kahit na anong
kalokohan nilang ginawa. Mac always took the blame and lets him out of trouble.

"You're a disturbance!"

Agad siyang umilag nang marinig ang kaibigan niya. Alam niya kasing babatuhin siya
nito nang kung ano. He only laughed at his friend.

"Akala ko ba iinom tayo? Makikikain ka lang pala. Nang-istorbo ka pa!" Inis itong
lumapit sa kanya nang hindi alintana kung naka-boxers lang.

"Yeah right!" Stacy seconded as she walked towards their direction. Inaayos nito
ang suot na dress. She's been Mac's constant partner lately.

"Vancee baby, massage my butt." Malanding sambit ng dalaga paglapit sa kinaroroonan

niya. She was about to give him a peck on the lips but he gently shoved her away.

"Aw, ang suplado ni Vancee baby. Join us next time." Natatawa namang saad ng
dalaga. She always flirts on him even in front of Mac. Hindi lang niya pinapatulan.
They have that unspoken agreement not to flirt the other's partner.

"Pagsabihan mo nga 'to." Baling niya sa kaibigan. Mac only laughed at what he said.

"Bumalik ka na lang bukas, Cy. Mukhang bad mood 'tong kaibigan ko." baling nito sa
dalaga. Natawa

lang din ang isa. Stacy kissed Mac before moving out of the dining room.

Mac went to the fridge and brought out cans of beers.

They were drinking and chatting for about an hour before they decided to go out.

Mac's guestroom has already been his space. May mga ilang damit na siya doon at
gamit kaya doon na siya nagbihis.

____

Few girls have been hitting on him while they are seated on the bar counter but he
politely turned them down. Naalala niya ang pagkainis ni Thea noong minsang nag-bar
sila sa tuwing nginingitian niya ang mga babaeng pumapansin sa kanya. He can't help
but smile while drinking.

Patingin-tingin siya sa cellphone. He's contemplating whether to send Thea a

message or not. Kanina pa kasi niya iniisip kung nakauwi na ito.
Hinatid ba siya ng kapatid nito o magulang sa unit nito? O nag-taxi?

"Hey!" Napatingin siya kay Mac na kumuha ng atensyon niya. His friend smirked.

"Problem?" tanong nito sa kanya. He looked down and shook his head. He stared at
his phone and decided to send Thea a message.

"You've been rejecting women the moment you sat there. The Vance I knew never turns
down a woman." Natatawa nitong sambit nang tingnan niya ito.

"Then you never knew me at all. I also choose y'know." He smirked before taking a
shot.

"Yeah! Tell that on your grandmother's grave." Natatawa nitong tugon. Napailing na
lang siya. The truth is he was right. He doesn't have a heart to turn down a
beautiful woman.

He checked

his phone but there was no reply from Thea.

"Mac, let's go. Ihatid mo ako sa unit ng girlfriend ko." Saad niya sabay tayo. Mac
wasn't able to continue his drink. Napaubo pa ito.

"Girlfriend?" Tumingin sa kanya ang kaibigan ng nakakaloko.

"Yeah," he muttered smiling.

"Huwag mo nga akong pinagloloko. Girlfriend? In your dreams Filan!" sambit nito
bago itinungga ang natitirang laman ng baso nito.

"I'm not kidding! C'mon let's go." Natatawa niyang saad at nauna nang lumabas ng
bar. He knew Mac would follow. Para itong babae kapag na-curious, ayaw paawat.
______

"At my mother's building, huh?" Naiiling na sambit ng kaibigan niya nang makalabas
sila mula sa kani-kaniyang sasakyan sa may parking area.

He smiled at him. Humakbang siya papuntang building. Sumunod naman ito. Kaya nga
niya ito tinawag para makapasok sa condo tower nang walang tanong-tanong.

"Ask them where Thea Samaniego's unit is." Bulong niya sa kaibigan nang malapit na
sila sa reception desk ng building.

"Akala ko ba girlfriend mo? Bakit hindi mo alam ang unit?" naghahamon nitong
tanong.

"Just go." Natatawa niyang saad sa kaibigan. Para silang bata na nagtulakan. The
two receptionists are looking at them. He is sure they know Mac. Even the guards at
the lobby greeted him and never asked anything.

"12th floor, Unit 1205." Saad ng kaibigan niya nang bumalik sa kinatatayuan niya.
Agad niyang tinungo ang elevator.

"Wait! Her name's familiar!" habol nito sa kanya. Alam niyang

makikilala ito ni Mac. They went to the same school plus she was consistently
second in rank.

"High School classmate." Sambit niya nang nasa elevator na sila.

"If you are planning to bang this high school classmate that you are saying, why do
you need to take me with you?" Nagtataka nitong sa kanya.

Bahagya siyang nainis sa narinig mula sa kaibigan. Hearing that word "bang"
associated with Thea upsets him. The question was normal whenever they speak but he
doesn't think it fits Thea.

"I am not going to bang her like what I do with other women. I'm only visiting her
and you are the best gateway to her building." Saad niya sa kaibigan.

He looked at him with disbelief before letting out a chuckle.

"Fuck. You've gone crazy." Sambit nito. Sasagot pa sana siya pero bigla siyang
kinabahan nang marinig ang tunog ng elevator.

He earned the courage to step out.

Huminga pa siya nang malalim nang matunton ang unit ng dalaga. Nakasunod lang si
Mac sa kanya.

He inhaled deeply as he pushed the buzzer. Agad siyang napakapit sa kaibigan nang
makitang unti-unting bumukas ang pinto.

"Shit. Man!" Agad siyang sinalo ng kaibigan para hindi siya matumba.

"Hi!" He flipped one of his eyes open when he felt Thea's presence. Mas lalo siyang
kinabahan. Lalo na at parang natatawa pa ang kaibigan niya sa ginagawa niya.

He saw Thea's creased forehead. Pinaglipat-lipat pa nito ang tingin sa kanilang

dalawa ng kaibigan niya.

"H-hi, Ms. Salutatorian!" He heard Mac greeted.

"I know you. Ikaw 'yong nambugbog sa lab partner ko no'ng high school." Rinig
niyang sambit ni Thea.
"Yes I am." Buong kumpiyansa namang tugon ng kaibigan niya.

Fuck.

Mali yata ang pagdadala niya kay Mac.

"And if you won't let your drunk boyfriend get inside your unit. I will leave him
badly beaten on the street." Dugtong nito bago siya binitawan. He lost his balance.
Kung hindi lang siya napasandal sa pader, malamang ay natumba na siya.

"My girlfriend, please let me in." He pretended to be drunk as hell. He wanted to

hold her arm anyway he's acting drunk but his respect for her overruled.

He saw how Mac smiled before turning away. Thea opened the door widely. Pasuray-
suray siyang pumasok sa loob ng unit ng dalaga.

Agad nitong isinara ang pinto pagkapasok niya.

Seryoso itong humarap sa kanya.

"Stop pretending to be drunk. Umupo ka sa couch. Marami akong itatanong." Saad

nito.

He felt like for the first time in his life, his entire face reddened.

Fuck.

=================

11: Nasaan Ang Space?

Thea almost let out a chuckle when she saw Vance looking at the CCTV monitor behind
the door. Lahat ng units sa condo tower ay mayroon no'n sa halip na peephole.
Nahahati ito sa apat. Ang una ay footage ng entrance sa lobby. Ang pangalawa naman
ay sa designated parking area ng residente. Ang pangatlo ay sa reception desk para
kung sakaling tumawag ang receptionist at sabihing may bisita sa baba makikita agad
ng residente kung sino iyon. Ang huli ay sa hallway papunta sa mismong unit.

The receptionist called up to tell her that she has two guests coming up. Kaya
inabangan niya ang mga ito mula sa monitor. Wala naman kasi siyang inaasahang
bisita.

She saw Vance walking straight to her unit. Hindi niya nakilala ang kasama nito
hanggang sa makita niya ito sa mata nang pagbuksan ang dalawa.

Hindi siya nag-alangang buksan ang pinto. Alam naman kasi niyang secured ang unit
niya kung sakali.

There are chemical guns situated strategically inside the unit and she only needs
to utter a word to blow them up. Kailangan lang itapat niya ang tao sa direksyon
ng
mga iyon. If it would hit any part of the body, it would make a person
unsconscious
for 48 hours. Then, it would send an alarm to the security team of the building.

She spent a handsome amount for that security. Nagaya niya ito sa flat kung saan
siya tumira abroad. It's recommended for women living alone.

"Bakit kasama mo si Macintosh?" tanong niya sa binata. Umupo siya sa katapat na

couch.

"He's a friend." Vance answered.

"Since high school?" Tinitigan niya ang binata ng mataman.

"Yes." Vance expression

became distant.

She inhaled deeply.

Hinding-hindi niya makakalimutan ang lalaking iyon. Naabutan niya kasi itong
pinagti-tripan ang lab partner niya noong Junior year nila sa high school. Bugbog
sarado na si Jemmu nang maabutan niya sa may sunken garden ng school. Macintosh was
already leaving the area.

It was her first time to get inside the prefect of discipline's office. She was the
witness. Jemmu's family wanted to sue Macintosh but he was a minor. Hindi niya din
alam kung bakit suspension lang ang ipinataw sa lalaki sa halip na kickout.

"So, ikaw ang kasama ni Macintosh na nambugbog kay Jemmu?" She said smirking.
Ipinipilit noon ni Jemmu na may kasamang isa pa ang lalaking bumugbog sa kanya.

Mac was so sarcastic that time. Tinawanan pa nito si Jemmu at sinabing nagdo-double
vision lang dahil sa suntok na tinamo.

"Hindi mo talaga makalimutan 'yang boyfriend mo no'ng high school 'no?" Vance
muttered looking seriously at her.

"So isa ka talaga sa nambugbog." She said in disbelief.

"Wala kang ebidensiya." Sambit nito. Tumingin ang binata sa ibang direksyon.

She let out a soft chuckle. For a moment, she's seeing a different side of Vance
and it intrigues her.

"Why did you do that to him? Ang bait no'ng tao." Saad niya sa binata. She saw how
his forehead creased at her remark. Napatawa tuloy siya.

"Were you jealous? Gusto mo na ako noon pa 'no?" Natatawa niyang tanong sa binata.
She didn't know why she suddenly felt at ease with him.

It must be because she's starting to see that

Vance is just as normal as anybody else. He also has petty weaknesses.

"Are you seriously asking me that?" Vance looked at her for a moment.

"A little. So, it's a yes?" Nanunudyo niyang tanong.

"What do you think?" Vance asked with a smirk. His reaction made her chuckle again.

"I think yes. Patay na patay ka na sa akin noon pa." Natatawa niyang tugon sa
binata.

"Ganyan ka ba talaga?" seryosong tanong ng binata. The reaction he's giving her
really makes her see him in a different light.

"Bakit? Natu-turn off ka na ba?" balik-tanong niya rito. She tried hard not to
laugh again. Mukha na naman kasi itong pikon.

"No. But I never really liked you before like what you are claiming now." Seryoso
nitong saad. Sa halip na mapahiya ay natawa pa siya sa naging pahayag ni Vance.

"Why do you memorize my friends if I wasn't special?" pangungulit niya.

"I already explained that to you." Sambit nito. Vance looked pissed.

Ang sarap lang asarin ang taong pikon. Lalo na kung kasing guwapo ng lalaking
kaharap niya.

"Why was I receiving invitations to all your family parties before?" nakataas-kilay
niyang tanong.

Vance wasn't able to answer right away. But he later opened his mouth to speak.

"I had to send everyone an invitation so that Mac could come without my family
suspecting him as a close friend. He was notorious, remember? They don't want me to
get into trouble because of him." He
explained.

Napatawa siya.

"Chill. Ang haba ng explanation mo. Napaghahalata ka tuloy." Sambit niya.

"You were asking why. I was just explaining." Saad nito. She could see him hardly
controlling his temper.

"Okay, so why did you appear at my doorstep acting drunk?" Sumeryoso siya ng
tingin.

Vance inhaled deeply and stared at her.

"I actually came to apologize for my untoward action this morning."

Siya naman ang napalunok sa sinabi nito. She was trying to brush off that scenario.

Great. He just reminded her again. Baka hindi na siya makatulog mamaya. Kanina nga
hindi siya makapag-concentrate sa ginagawa.

She tried hard to be as calm and contained as possible.

"Do you always apologize to the women you had sex with like it wasn't your
intention to do it?" She didn't know why her question sounded sarcastic.

"Theirs were different stories. Iba 'yong sa 'yo."

"So, I am special?" Napailing siya at bahagyang napangiti sa sariling katanungan.

She felt like teasing him again.

"That confident side of you kindda kills." Naiiling din nitong sambit. His face was
serious.
Napailing na lang din siya at hindi na nagsalita. She's starting to realize the
implication of her teasing.

Shit.

Nagmumukha na siyang ewan sa kapipilit dito na may gusto ito sa kanya.

"You are actually different. I don't know if that counts as special in a woman's
perspective."

Vance stared at her. She wanted to avert her gaze but his green eyes were
magnetizing.

"You're the only woman I wanted to get closed with outside my family." Dagdag nito.

Her heartbeats started racing but she tried hard to act normal.

"So, you came here to ask me to be your friend without bringing anything."
Nginitian niya ang binata. She wanted to take it lightly. Kung hindi baka tuluyan
na siyang kiligin.

Vance looked at her amused. Napatawa ito.

"I actually brought something." He said with a mischievous grin. He was about to
pull out something from his pockect when she glared at him.

"Subukan mong maglabas ng condom, hindi ka makalalabas dito ng buhay." Banta niya
rito. 'Yong ganong ngiti kasi ng binata alam na niyang may kamanyakan itong
iniisip.

"You're too advanced, girlfriend. Gusto mo bang gawin na ngayon?" Vance laughed out
loud.
"Shut up!" Hindi niya napigilang hampasin ito ng throw pillow. Natatawa lang naman
nitong sinalag. She eventually resigned to her seat.

Ang guwapo talaga ng hayop.

Umayos siya ng upo. Mababaliw yata siya sa takbo ng usapan nilang dalawa.

"This isn't what you think it is." Seryong saad ni Vance nang makahuma. He pulled
out something from his pocket and showed it to her.

Her jaw literally dropped looking at the diamond ring.

"Give me your hand." Saad nito.

"Y-you're not seriously giving me that diamond ring, right?" nauutal niyang tanong.
Pakiramdam niya ay kinabahan ang lahat ng parte ng katawan niya.

It's an engagement ring for Pete's sake.

"Women love diamond rings. So, I'm giving one to you. Baka kasi dahil sa nangyari
kaninang umaga isipin mo na kagaguhan lang ang alam ko." paliwanag ng binata.

"But that's an engagement ring." Wala sa sariling sambit niya rito.

Vance smiled widely.

"Ang advance mo talaga!" natatawa nitong saad.

"This is just a friendship ring since you are now my uhm-girl-friend." He added
smiling widely.

Tututol sana siya nang magsalita ulit ito.

"I mean girl space friend." He muttered smiling. Huminga siya ng malalim bago
nakapagsalita.

"If you are giving away diamond rings to girls you wanted to befriend, mamumulubi
ka." Tugon niya sa binata.

Napatawa naman ito.

"Kaya pala hindi mo ako na-outrank dati, hindi ka marunong makinig." Natatawa
namang tugon ni Vance.

Her forehead creased. Pero bago pa man niya maibuka ang bibig nagsalita na naman
ang binata.

"I repeat you're the only woman I wanted to get closed with outside my family."

Kinuha nito ang kamay niya. She wasn't able to protest when he put the ring on her
finger. It fits her perfectly and it looked magnificent in her finger.

"Now, you're my girlfriend." Vance muttered smiling. He lifted her hand and kissed
the back of it.

She felt like her whole being froze at the mere contact.

Shit.

Nasaan 'yong space sa girlfriend?

Nasaan 'yong space kung lumipat ito sa tabi niya habang hawak pa rin ang kamay niya
at inihilig siya sa balikat nito at umakbay sa kanya ng tuluyan?
Tiningala niya ang binata, kumindat lang ito sa kanya at kinabig siya palapit sa
dibdib nito.

Shit.

Nasaan ang space kung hindi na siya makahinga ng maayos dahil sa samyo ng pabango
nito?

Her insides churned when she felt him kissing the top of her head. All she did was
close her eyes and hoped she wouldn't wake up. Baka kasi nananaginip lang siya.

=================

12: Sila Na Ba?

Thea's heart no longer knows what being calm means. Hindi na kasi ito natigil sa
pagtibok ng mabilis.

She didn't know if it is sane to let him hug her this way but damn her heart
doesn't want to protest.

She could feel him kissing her hair second after second.

"Can I sleep here tonight?"

That question made her go back to her senses. Agad siyang bumitaw sa pagkakayakap
ng binata at dumistansiya ng upo.
Tinitigan niya ito ng mataman. She felt insulted by his question. She averted her
gaze.

Akala ba nito maikakama siya ng ganon-ganon lang?

Napailing siya.

She tried to calm her self first before looking back at him. Inosente naman itong
nakatingin sa kanya at hinihintay ang sagot niya na para bang ang tanong nito ay
hindi nakakainsulto sa kanya bilang babae.

"Yes or no?" He asked with a smile.

Shit.

Why does he have to look like it is so normal to ask her that?

Huminga ulit siya ng malalim.

"Okay as long as you bought some foil packs with you, now." She said looking
seriously at him. She said that to see how eager he is to bed her.

Get ready to sleep for two days, Vance. She smirked at the back of her mind.

BUT his answer totally left her in awe.

"Really? Are you checking my things when I'm out of the office? Alam mo yatang
hindi na ako nagdadala ng condom eh." Naiiling nitong sambit. He sound
disappointed.

Mula sa seryosong aura niya kanina ay parang gusto niyang matawa sa reaksyon ng
binata.
Salubong ang kilay ni Vance na tumingin sa kanya.

"Sayang. Hindi ka ready." Natatawa niyang tudyo sa binata. Nawala pa lahat ng

insultong naramdaman niya kanina.

Napatitig ito sa kanya.

Napalunok siya at hindi itinuloy ang pagtawa. She thought for a moment he'd suggest
buying at the nearest store or they could do it without protection but he didn't
say anything. Tumingin lang ito sa kanya. She can't read his reaction.

"Bakit hindi ka na nagdadala? Unprotected sex is dangerous y'know." She joked but
the man didn't smile nor laugh.

"I no longer have plans on bedding anyone." Seryoso nitong tugon.

"Sus. Ikaw pa? 'Sing berde kaya ng mga mata mo 'yang utak mo." Natatawa niyang
sambit.

Vance looked at her amused.

"Ikaw nga diyan ang nag-isip ng berde, tinanong ko lang naman kung puwede akong
matulog dito iba na ang inisip mo." Natatawa nitong depensa.

"Bakit gusto mong matulog dito kung hindi 'yon ang pakay mo?" Hamon niya sa binata.

"For security reasons. Gusto kitang bantayan." Natatawa nitong saad. Hinila siya
ulit nito palapit at inakbayan.

"Security my ass!" natatawa niyang sambit.

She didn't know why it feels great to be this close to the man.
She doesn't also understand why he could easily erase her doubts about his
intentions.

Tawa lang ang isinagot ng binata bago siya hinalikan sa buhok at niyakap ng
mahigpit.

Shit. Ang landi-landi na yata niya.

...but she cared less. Basta magaan ang pakiramdam niya

sa paglalapit nilang dalawa at ayaw niyang putulin ang kasiyahang nararamdaman.

Isa pa ramdam naman kasi niyang walang halong kamanyakan ang yakap ni Vance sa
kanya.

Wala nga ba?

"I'm curious. Since when did you stop bringing protection?" Tiningala niya ang
binata. Ngumiti naman ito.

"You wouldn't wanna know." He said with a chuckle.

"Kaya ko nga tinatanong kasi gusto kong malaman." Tugon naman niya.

Vance smiled widely as he stared at her. Yakap-yakap pa rin siya nito. Pinisil nito
ang balikat niya. It sent tingles on her nape.

"Since---" He intentionally stopped and smiled. Hinintay naman niya itong

magsalita. She didn't know why she was eager to hear his answer.

"Since I started fantasizing about you." Kindat nito.

Bigla niyang naitulak ang binata sa narinig mula rito. Tatawa-tawa naman ito habang
nakatingin sa kanya.
"Your reactions are really cute." Natatawa nitong sambit.

Shit.

Bakit parang kinilig siya?

"Umuwi ka na nga!" Irap niya sa binata. Natatawa naman itong tumayo.

"Mabuti pa nga. Kanina mo pa ako pinagti-tripan eh. Akala mo hindi ko napansin?"

Natatawa nitong wika.

"Go. Uwi na!" She rolled her eyes at him.

Tumayo siya para itulak ito papuntang pintuan. Natatawa naman itong nagpatianod.

"Goodnight kiss ko, girlfriend." Nakangiti itong humarap sa kanya nang nasa pintuan
na.

She felt like her face flushed. Tinawanan naman nito ang reaksyon niya.

"Just a quick kiss." He said and puckered his lips.

Bakit ba mas kinikilig pa siya kaysa maramdamang binabastos siya nito?

Naumid ang dila niya.

"You choose. It's either you kiss me quick or I'll kiss you. You'll enjoy the
latter, I swear." Nakangisi nitong saad.

Why does he have to be that handsome?

Justice, please.

"If you'll kiss me, I'll sue you." She said smirking at him.

Vance smiled.

"So, you're choosing the first option? Dominating, huh." Natatawa nitong saad.

She wasn't able to think of a defense right away.

Tangina, kasi. Haha!

"C'mon kiss me." He said smiling. He even closed his eyes.

She stared at him. His lips look wet. And damn, he's still handsome minus the green
eyes.

Ewan niya kung bakit nahipnotismo siyang ilapit ang labi sa mga labi nito.

The moment her lips landed on his, Vance immediately grabbed her waist and deepened
the kiss. Her heart skipped a beat when she felt his tongue devouring her mouth.
Pero bago pa man niya tuluyang tugunin ang halik nito ay bumitaw na ang binata.

"Goodnight, girlfriend." He said before going out of the door.

She was left totally dumbfounded.

Anong nangyari?

For few minutes, they were like teenagers teasing each other like they've been
close all their lives.

Then, they were like lovers.

Wait.

Sila na ba?

What will happen when they meet at the office?

For a moment, she stood there staring at the ring on her finger eagerly
anticipating of tomorrow.
[Tomorrow...tomorrow...I love you, tomorrow. You're always a daaay...aaawaaaay!
Hahaha! Pantanggal umay.]

=================

13: Ruthless Tactic

[Warning: Maikling update. It contains 306 words kahit bilangin niyo hehe at pure
narration lang. Let's get to know Vance better.]

Vance smiled as he walked out of the door. Napapailing siyang bumaba at tinungo ang
sasakyan.

When he was inside, he took out all the condoms in the dashboard compartment.
Inilabas din niya ang mga nasa loob ng wallet at itinapon sa basurahan.

Who said he's not bringing any of those?

He only said that because he saw Thea's facial expression when he asked her if he
could stay for the night.

He would never deny that he wanted to bed her ever since. Hindi nga lamang siya
umuubra kahit anong gawin niya. She's one hell of a hot bombshell. Her tits look as
luscious as her sexy ass. Her lips as well look as seductive as her eyes.

Nang pumayag itong akbayan niya at yakapin at binibiro-biro pa siya, akala niya
papayag ito sa gusto niyang mangyari.

BUT seeing her reaction when she moved away from his embrace the moment he popped
that question made him think otherwise.

Parang gusto siya nitong balatan ng buhay nang mapagtanto kung ano ang gusto niyang
mangyari.
He's been observing her reaction. That's why he's sure when she asked if he had
condoms, she's only testing him. So, he casually denied. He pretended to be
disappointed for not bringing anything for quite some time.

Alam naman kasi niyang hindi ito maniniwala kung sasabihin niyang wala siyang
ganoong balak at makitutulog lang talaga.

True enough, her smile gave her away.

Madali lang pa lang basahin ang ugali ng dalaga.

She'd tease and lure you and when you give in you'll be held responsible for it.

Ang mga tipo niya ay kailangan munang kinukuha ang loob. At kapag nakuha na ang
loob, siguradong mapapasunod din sa kagustuhan niya.

Strong-willed yet gullible woman. A little bit of outwitting will do. She'll
eventually give in.

He will bed her soon. That's for sure.

Ngayon pang nakita niyang mukhang kinikilig na ito sa ilang mga ginagawa niya?

Vance smiled as he drove off.

[Assignment: Magbigay ng isang dahilan kung bakit ka kinikilig kay Vance.

Ipaliwanag sa isang pangungusap. Wth?]

=================

14: The First

Thea wasn't able to sleep that night. Pabaling-baling siya ng higa. It was already
dawn when she was able to fall asleep. Ang aga pa niyang nagising kaya halos wala
siyang tulog.
Kaya naman maaga siyang gumayak papuntang opisina.

Kaunti pa lang ang pumapasok nang makarating siya sa VLF Buiding. Even Arnie wasn't
there yet.

Hinarap agad niya ang naiwang blueprint na ginagawa niya kahapon pero hindi pa rin
siya maka-concentrate. Patingin-tingin siya sa may pintuan.

She's been fidgeting on her seat.

Napailing siya. She has to act normal.

What if everything that happened last night was just a joke?

She closed her eyes for a while before concentrating on her work.

"I was texting and calling your phone since 6AM." Vance's voice echoed around.

Napatingala siya.

Sunod-sunod ang ginawa niyang paglunok nang makita ito. Vance isn't on his usual
coat and tie. He's wearing a knee-length cream pants, sky blue v-neck semi-fit
shirt and a pair of expensive sneakers.

He looks so fresh.
Napakagat siya sa labi nang makita ang seryoso nitong mukha. Her phone is always on
silent mode. Madalas sa gabi lang talaga siya nagche-check ng phone.

"Naka-silent mode kasi." She mumbled as she rummaged her bag. There were 58 missed
calls and 22 messages.

Seriously?

"Nag-cell phone ka pa?" inis itong naglakad palapit sa kanya.

Ipinatong nito ang dalawang kamay sa mesa at tumitig sa kanya ng diretso.

"Starting today,

always check your phone for my messages whenever we are not together and please
always call back whenever you missed a call from me." Saad nito.

She inhaled deeply.

"Why would I?" Her question came out as a whisper. She saw Vance's eyes get amused.
Doon kasi siya nakatitig.

"Because you're my girlfriend, silly." He said and immediately gave her a peck on
the lips.

Bigla tuloy dumagundong ang puso niya.

May balak yata itong patayin siya sa keleg? Kilig pala. Hehe.

"Get up. Let's have our first official date." He said smiling. Agad nitong dinampot
ang bag niya at umikot sa lamesa para alalayan siyang tumayo.
They walked out of the office holding hands. She shyly walked behind him.

"Puwede ba tayong dumaan sa condo ko? Magpapalit lang ako ng damit." Saad niya. She
has a hint they'd go to the beach. Naka-pencil cut skirt, sleeveless top at office
coat pa naman siya. Idagdag pa ang stiletto shoes niya samantalang ang kasama ay
naka-shorts.

Vance stopped walking and stared at her. Napatigil tuloy siya sa paglalakad.
Inilapit nito ang mukha sa kanya at ngumiti.

"Huwag na. Huhubaran din naman kita mamaya." Nakangisi nitong bulong.

Wth?

Pinamulahan pa siya sa narinig.

"Manyak ka talaga!" Hindi niya napigilang hampasin ito sa dibdib. Vance's laugh
echoed around. Napatingin pa ilang empleyadong naglalakad sa hallway.

"I was just kidding. Excited ka masyado." Natatawa nitong saad saka nagpatuloy sa
paglalakad habang hila-hila siya.

Siya pa talaga ang excited?

Naiiling siyang naglakad kasabay

nito. Hinila kasi nito ang kamay niya para magkasabay sila.

"Bakit nakapili ka na ba ng flavor?" Natatawa nitong tanong nang makapasok sila sa

elevator.

Tiningnan niya ang mukha nito. He looked teasing again. Napailing siya. May bahid
na talaga ng kamanyakan ang dugo ng lalaking kaharap.

"Sabi mo pipili lang ako kapag nahuli ulit kitang may ka-sex?" taas-kilay niyang
tanong. She looked at him through his reflection on the elevator door.

Good thing he finally let go of her hand but he didn't let any space between them.
Kapag uusog siya, umuusog din ito palapit.

"Aw. Did I say that?" He asked grinning.

"Yeah and you could memorize the periodic table of elements," sarkastiko niyang
sambit. Napatawa naman ang binata.

Tumitig din ito sa kanya mula sa repleksyon sa pintuan ng elevator.

"The next time you'll see me having sex will be on a mirror with that face." Turo
nito sa repleksyon niya. He even winked and smiled seductively.

If he was another man, she would have hit him with anything.

BUT he is Vance. The only thing she was able to do was gather her breath and inhale
deeply.

Bakit ba siya kinikilig? Peste naman.

And damn it, she's even tempted to ask him when will that finally happen?

Hindi na siya tumutol nang hapitin siya nito sa baywang paglabas nila ng elevator
at tinungo ang sasakyan nito.
____

They stopped on a port along Manila

Bay.

Tiningnan niya ang binata nang alalayan siya nito papunta sa isang motorboat.
Ibinalik niya ang tingin sa paa.

She's wearing high heels for goodness' sake.

"C'mon. It's fine." Nakangiti nitong anyaya. Nag-alangan siyang humakbang pero
hinawakan nito ng mahigpit ang kamay niya.

Mabilis nitong hinapit ang baywang niya at binuhat siya papunta sa motorboat nang
walang kahirap-hirap. He let her stand beside him as he maneuvered the vessel.

Napatawa pa ito nang kumapit siya sa balikat nito. Muntik kasi siyang ma-out
balance nang umandar na ang sasakyang pandagat.

Napatingin siya sa mukha ng lalaking tatawa-tawa sa tabi niya. Her hand remained on
his shoulder.

Is this his way of dating? ...with the sun and sea breeze kissing their skin...

Her question was answered when she saw a huge ship at the middle of the sea where
they are heading.

She'd never been in a cruise ship but seeing that VLF calligraphy on the gigantic
ship looks like she'll have her first cruise experience now.

Napatingin siya sa lalaki. Sumulyap naman ito sa kanya nang may ngiti sa labi.
Good god! Does this man have any idea how handsome he looked like while maneuvering
the small boat?

A crew helped Vance anchor the motorboat on the cruise ship. Inalalayan siya nitong
sumampa sa platform.

"Welcome aboard, my girlfriend." He said with a smile when they entered the ship.
Sumalubong sa mga mata niya ang eleganteng walkway. Ang liwanag sa loob ay
nanggagaling lahat mula sa nakahilerang chandeliers. They look magnificent. There
are boutiques of expensive brands on each side.

It felt like she entered in a luxurious mall.

"So, you were having troubles with your dress? Come let's get you something more
comfortable to wear, girlfriend." Kaswal nitong saad at hinila na siya papasok sa
isang boutique.

"Will you stop calling me girlfriend? Nakakaasiwa." Aniya sa binata.

"How do you want me to address you then?" nakangiti nitong tanong.

"Thea. Just Thea, okay?" She answered right away. Pinandilatan pa niya ang binata
na tinawanan lang naman nito.

"Mamili ka na ng damit, so you could change your outfit." He said smiling.

Tumingin siya sa paligid. Wala siyang makitang ibang tao sa loob.

"Bakit walang tao?" tanong niya sa binata.

Ngumiti naman ito.

"We have the ship by ourselves." He smiled.

"Do you also own this?"

Vance shook his head.

"Not mine. It's my parents'. I'm only managing the cruise lines." He explained.

"Ang akin lang 'yong pharmaceutical laboratory at--" His smile was suspended on the
air.

Kunot-noo naman siyang napatitig sa binata.

"At ano?" nagtataka niyang tanong rito.

Vance smiled widely.

"At ikaw kasi girlfriend na kita." Kindat nito bago natatawang umalis sa harap
niya.

Ano daw?

Wala pa sa loob siyang napatalikod at bigla na lang kumuha sa mga naka-hanger na

damit ng puwede niyang pagbihisan.

=================

15: The Tease

Thea changed into a sleeveless white top and black denim shorts.

Hawak-hawak niya ang damit paglabas ng fitting room. Vance smiled and handed her a
paper bag. Inilagay na lamang niya ang pinagbihisan doon. She was busy fixing it
when he handed her a box.

"Flipflops?" Nakatingala niyang tanong sa binata. Ngumiti naman ito.

"Why do you girls call it flipflops? Puwede namang slippers na lang." Natatawa
nitong saad habang binubuksan ang box. Lumuhod pa ito para tulungan siyang
tanggalin ang high heels niya.

"Ako na," nahihiya niyang tabig sa kamay nito. Nakaramdam siya ng pagkaasiwa. She's
not used to men doing things like that to her.

Natatawa naman itong tumayo at hinayaan na lang siya. Ito na ang naglagay ng
sapatos sa box at inilagay sa paper bag bago siya hinawakan sa kamay at iginiya
palabas ng boutique. Patingin-tingin siya sa mga nadaraanan nila.

"The first deck is a shopping center." Saad nito habang naglalakad sila. She
thought they'd go up to a stair but they entered in an elevator.

Iginiya siya nito sa pangalawang deck. Her eyes were greeted by a wide social hall.
There's another big chandelier at the middle but it wasn't lighted. Maliwanag at
maaliwalas ang loob. Sa palibot kasi ng social hall ay mga restaurants na clear
glass ang mga dingding at tanaw na tanaw ang asul na dagat sa paligid. She is sure
they are serving cuisines of different countries based on their names. She was glad
to see few staff inside the restaurants.

"This deck is for stomach progress.

Come let's taste something Italian." Anyaya ng binata bago siya hinila papunta sa
isang restaurant. Iginiya siya nito sa table sa labas kung saan ramdam ang lamig ng
samyo ng dagat.

Pagkaupo pa lang nila, nagserve na agad ang waiter.

Pangiti-ngiti ang binata habang kumakain sila kaya tumanaw na lamang siya sa dagat.
She could see that they are already traversing along the vast ocean.

"Don't tell me we are cruising?" Kunot-noo niyang tanong sa binata. Alam naman niya
kung ilang days inaabot ang isang cruise.

"Don't worry. This is just for a day." Nakangiti naman nitong tugon.
Nakahinga siya ng maluwag.

"Saan ang route ng cruise ship niyo?" tanong niya para magbukas ng ibang usapan.
She doesn't want Vance's silence to eat them.

"This is traversing around Asia. We also have cruise ships in the Pacific,
Carribean, around Europe and one traversing around the world." Hayag nito.

Parang nalula pa siya sa naging sagot nito.

"Really? Ilang days inaabot ang buong cruise?" tanong niya sa binata.

"It depends. Asian is good for 14-30 days. Carribean sometimes last for 90 days or
longer. Pacific cruise is roughly around two months and around the world cruise is
at most 360 days." Vance explained before taking another spoonful of his pasta.

"One year as in?" Namamangha niyang tanong sa binata.

"Yeah. Tumitigil-tigil naman kasi sa iba't-ibang bansa."

Napatango siya at napangiti. Alam naman niyang tumitigil ang cruiseship sa mga
bansa kaya nga enjoy.

"Do you want the cruise around the world?"

nangingiti nitong tanong matapos ang ilang saglit na katahimikan.

"Siyempre. Sino ba ang may ayaw sa ganoong buhay?" Natatawa naman niyang sagot.

Vance smiled.

"Okay when you get pregnant. We'll cruise around-the-world." Agad nitong tugon.
Bigla pa siyang napatigil sa pagnguya ng pagkain.

"Okay ka lang?" She asked with a grimace.

"Ayaw mo ba?" Nakangisi naman nitong tanong. He even smiled seductively.

Shit.

"Ang alin?" Patay-malisya niyang tanong. She wants to dismiss the pregnant thingy.
Kese nemen. Kasi naman (pala). Hehe!

"Mag-around the world cruise." Natatawa naman nitong tugon.

Saglit siyang natahimik bago sumagot.

"Of course, I like."

"So how about cruising next month?" Vance grinned. Parang may iba na naman itong
nais ipakahulugan.

"Are you hinting about getting me pregnant in a month?" Taas-kilay niyang tanong sa
binata.

Vance laughed out loud.

Tumigil lang ito nang makitang seryoso siyang nakatitig rito.

He faked a cough before looking at her. His eyes were still smiling.

"No. Don't get too excited. Cruise ang pinag-uusapan natin." He wasn't able to
control his chuckle.

Pinamulahan pa siya.

"Do you really think I don't get your language?" inis niyang saad sa binata pero
tumawa lang ulit ito ng mahina.

"That's a sweet offer girlfriend but I am not bedding you. Not anytime soon."
Kindat nito bago tumayo.

"Tara na nga bago pa iba ang maisip mong gawin diyan." Natatawa nitong sambit.
Kinuha nito

ang paperbag at nauna nang naglakad.

Seriously? Siya pa talaga ang iba ang iniisip?

Napapailing siyang sumunod sa binata nang pumasok na ulit ito sa elevator. He went
out on the next deck.

Tahimik lang siyang sumunod dito hanggang sa pumasok ito sa isang pinto. Saka lang
niya naisip na cabins pala ang nasa deck na pinuntahan nila.

"Welcome to my abode." He said as they walked inside. Prente itong umupo sa may
couch sa receiving parlor. His cabin looks like a hotel suite. Parang wala sila sa
loob ng barko.

Inilibot niya ang paningin sa loob.

There are three panel dividers pero kita pa rin ang dulo ng kama nito na may white
bedsheets.

She walked towards the bed. There are two adjacent doors near the bedside table.
Uupo sana siya kama nang hilahin siya ng binata.

"We are not here to sleep." He said smiling at hinila siya ulit palabas. Iniwan na
nito sa loob ang mga dala nila.

They went to the top deck. There she saw different recreational activities. There's
a place for wall climbing, zipline from end to end, tennis court, giant swing. On
one side is an Olympic-size pool. There are lined sunbeds.

There are few staff fixing and cleaning the place. Inalalayan siya nito papunta sa
pinakadulo na may mga nakahilerang umbrella benches. It is the best part of the
ship because it is overlooking everything. Kitang-kita niya ang nakapaligid na asul
na dagat.

They both sat there feeling the sun and sea kissing their skin. Prente pang humiga
patihaya ang kasamang binata sa bench. Ginamit nitong unan ang sariling

kamay habang ang mga paa ay nakapatong sa dulo ng bench at naka-de kuwatro pa. His
eyes were closed.

There are only three words that could describe him - tangina ang guwapo.

Napapailing niyang ibinalik ang tingin sa asul na dagat.

"Was it always your dream to become a Chemical Engineer?"

Napatingin siya sa nakapikit na binata nang magsalita ito. His lying position
didn't change.

Napangiti siya bago huminga ng malalim.

"Parang tinanong mo na 'yan dati." Natatawa niyang sambit.

Vance smiled but his eyes are still closed.

"Yeah but you didn't answer." He mumbled. Napatango na lang siya kahit hindi naman
siya nakikita ng kausap.

Tiningnan niya ito. Nakapikit pa rin ito at prenteng nakahiga.

Crush kasi kita dati kaya ginaya ko 'yong course mo. She wanted to answer but she
chose not to say anything.

"Don't stare at my face and smile. It feels awkward." Saad nito nang hindi siya
magsalita.

Napakunot-noo siya. Akala niya nakapikit talaga ito ng todo. Nakasilip pala.
Nakakahiya. Titig na titig pa naman siya sa mukha nito.

"Your reactions are really epic and cute." Tumingin ito sa kanya nang nakangiti.

Hindi na lamang niya ito pinansin at tumingin na lang sa asul na dagat.

"Where are we headed?" she asked when she couldn't see any island nearby.

"Do you really like chemistry back then kaya ka nag-ChemEng?" tanong ulit nito sa
halip na sagutin ang tanong niya.

"Yes. I am fascinated with laboratories." Tugon na lamang niya para tumigil ito.

Bigla

naman itong umupo.

"Akala ko ginaya mo lang ako." Natatawa nitong sambit. He leaned on the table and
used his hand to support his head. Tumingala ito sa kanya.

"Kaya pala lagi kang naiiwan no'n sa laboratory. Akala ko talaga hinihintay mo
ako." Kindat nito bago ngumisi.

Shit. That was a double strike. Ang talino talaga ng hayop.

She blushed remembering those moments. Napapansin pala siya nito. Ni hindi kasi
sila nag-usap ni minsan. Tinitingnan lang siya ng binata noon at hindi naman
nagsasalita.

"Naalala mo din ba?" tanong nito nang hindi siya magsalita. Umayos ito ng upo at
hinawakan ang kamay niya.

She chose not to answer his question.

Pinaglaruan naman nito ang singsing sa daliri niya.

"I'm glad you're wearing it." He smiled and kissed it gently. Tumitig ito sa kanya
at ngumiti.

Her heart skipped a bit. Then it launched to a thousand more beats after.

Mabuti na lang tumayo ito at niyaya siyang i-try ang mga activities sa barko.
Pumayag na lamang siya para iwaksi ang bilis at lakas ng tibok ng puso niya.

They did wall climbing, rapelling and ziplining. Pinilit pa siya nitong sumakay sa
giant swing. Ayaw pa sana niya pero dahil todo alalay naman ito ay pumayag na lang
siya. They really had the cruise ship by themselves. Maliban na lang sa mga staff
na umaalalay sa kanila.

They had late lunch at the restaurant on the second deck bago bumalik ulit sa top
deck.

Inalalayan siya nito papunta sa gilid ng barko. Pansin na niyang may isla pero
masyado

itong malayo.

Nakita niyang may itinaas itong glass panel. Mula sa glass panel ay nakita niya
nang malapitan ang nasabing isla. She's like looking on a postcard. The white sand
and coconut trees on the sea shore look magnificent.

"That's Coron, Palawan. Hindi lang makalapit 'tong cruiseship kasi may mga coral
reefs na matatamaan." Tiningala niya ang binatang nagsalita. Ngumiti naman ito.

"But there's a smaller vessel that could take guests to the island." Dagdag
paliwanag nito.

Ramdam niyang tumigil ang barko sa gitna ng dagat. She looked at the island. Para
itong langgam sa liit mula sa kinaroonan nila pero parang naka-zoom in ito sa glass
panel. It's like a big magnifying lens.

"Gusto mo bang pumunta?" tanong nito.

Umiling siya. Napatango naman ito.

"Mag-swimming na lang tayo." saad nito at hinila na siya.

He took her back to the shopping deck. Iginiya siya nitong pumili ng bikini na
puwedeng suotin. He handed her a robe and guided her towards the fitting room.

Paglabas niya ay naka-robe na lang din ito. Iniabot nito ang isang paper bag kung
saan naman niya inilagay ang pinagpalitan. He instructed a staff to put it on his
cabin. Then he took her to the lower deck where a platform leads to the open ocean.

He immediately removed his robe. Naka-swimming trunks na lang ito sa loob.

He looks hotter than this morning. She averted her gaze when she saw his sexy abs
(again). Talagang 'yon ang nagdala.

"Tara na." Nakangiti nitong anyaya. He looked like a kid excited to jump in the
ocean.

Unti-unti rin niyang tinanggal ang suot na robe.

She heard Vance cough a little. Nang tingnan niya ang binata ay sa dagat naman ito
nakatingin.

"Hey," untag niya rito pero agad na itong nag-dive sa tubig at lumangoy.

The water is dark blue. Halatang malalim ang parteng iyon pero mukha namang
marunong talagang lumangoy ang binata.

She sat on the platform. Inilublob niya ang mga paa sa dagat. The cold water (in
the afternoon's warmness) feels inviting.

"Hey, sweetheart. Come!" Anyaya ng binata nang makitang hindi pa siya bumababa sa
tubig.

"Hindi ako marunong lumangoy!" She shouted back controlling a laughter. Lumangoy
naman ito pabalik sa puwesto niya at humawak sa platform.

"I'll teach you." He said softly. He was looking at her face.

"Hindi ba bagay sa akin ang pinili kong two-piece?" natatawa niyang tanong sa
binata.

Ngumiti naman ito.

"Don't ask. Halika na!" saad nito at hinawakan ang kamay niya. Ni hindi ito
sumulyap sa suot niya.

Natatawa man ay unti-unti siyang bumaba at kumapit sa leeg ng binata. He still has
that sweet manly scent even in the water.

He held her waist as he floats. Nanatili siyang nakakapit sa leeg nito.

"Stay at my back. Ilalangoy kita." Saad nito. Nangingiti naman siya habang maingat
na lumilipat sa likod nito. He's still floating. Ang galing lang.
"Ready." He said before swimming farther. It feels nice swimming while holding on
his shoulder and neck.

"Like it?" He asked when they stopped at a distant.

Hinawakan

siya nito sa baywang at ipinaharap. Nakangiti siyang tumitig sa binata. He stared

back at her.

"How would you react if I removed this string, now?" Ngumisi ito nang nakakaloko at
ipinaramdam pang hawak nito ang string ng bikini niya.

"That's not fair." Saad naman niya rito.

"We're at the middle. You can not do anything?" Natatawa nitong saad.

"Ang linaw kaya ng tubig kapag tinanggal mo makikita lahat ng crew na nakatanaw sa
atin." Tumingin siya sa taas ng cruise ship. May mangilan-ngilan ngang nakatingin
pero agad na nagsipagtalikod nang tumingin si Vance sa mga ito.

"I tried having sex in the water once, it's great." Nang-aakit nitong saad.

"Ang manyak mo talaga." Inis niya itong hinampas sa balikat pero tumawa lang ito.

"It's your fault. Why did you choose a string two-piece? Now, I am tempted."
Nanggigil itong humalik ng mabilis sa labi niya.

Sa halip na magalit sa ginawa nito ay parang nasiyahan pa siya. Ang landi niya
talaga.

"Okay, I'll let you have your way. Remove it the way you want it in one condition."
Nakangisi niyang saad sa binata.

Lumawak naman ang ngiti nito.

"Sure." Saad nito. Hinawakan pa siya nito sa magkabilang pisngi at hinalikan ulit
ng mabilis sa labi. That felt great.

"If you could catch me before I could reach the top of the platform." Saad niya.
Kunot-noo naman itong tumingin at parang inaanalisa ang sinabi niya.

She took that chance to loosen her embrace. She swam fastly towards the ship. Ni
hindi siya tumingin sa binata.

Mabilis siyang nakarating sa gilid ng barko at sumampa sa platform. Tawang-tawa

siya nang makarating ang binata at humawak sa platform na kinatutuntungan niya.

"Paano ba 'yan. Hindi mo ako nahabol?" kantiyaw niya sa binata. He was running out
of breath at inis na tumingala sa kanya.

"You said you don't know how to swim." Inis nitong sambit.

"I lied." She said smiling sweetly.

"You're unfair!" Pikon nitong saad. Sinabuyan pa siya ng tubig.

Natatawa naman niyang pinulot ang robe at isinuot.

Pikon na pikon namang nakatingin ang binata sa kanya.

Napangiti siya nang makaisip ng kalokohan

Ipinasok niya ang kamay sa loob ng robe at mabilisang hinila ang string ng suot na
bikini bra at ibinato sa mukha ng napipikong binata.

Bago pa man ito makapag-react isinunod niyang hinila ang suot na bikini panty at
ibinato sa mukha ng nakangangang binata saka natatawang pumasok sa loob ng barko.

=================

16. Official

[A/N: Salamat sa mga naghihintay. Wala pa po tayo sa kalahati ng story. Tiwala

lang.]

Thea was already done freshening up when Vance entered the cabin. Tahimik itong
pumasok sa bathroom.

She pursed her lips. Mula sa mapang-asar na Vance bumalik na naman ito sa
pananahimik. Ipinagkibit-balikat na lamang niya. She pretty understands his
behavior.

Pumunta siya sa deck ng mga restaurants. The staff offered her bites of the foods
they serve. Tuwang-tuwa niyang iniisa-isa ang bawat puwesto. Accomodating naman
silang lahat at asikasong-asikaso siya.

She was on the Belgian restaurant when Vance appeared behind her.

"Madaya. Kumakaing mag-isa." Bulong nito nang makalapit. He held her waist and
immediately took a bite on the Belgian chocolate cake she's about to eat.
"Nagugutom kasi ako," natatawa naman niyang sagot at dahan-dahang kumalas sa yakap
nito. She sat on the chair. Umupo naman ito sa kaharap na silya.

"Yeah," he mumbled smiling.

"Nakagugutom talaga 'yong ginawa mo kanina." Kindat nito bago inagaw ang hawak
niyang tinidor at kumuha ulit ng cake.

She didn't expect men to look that sexy when eating chocolate cake. O baka si Vance
lang ang gano'n?

"Do you really like chocolate cake?" natatawa niyang tanong sa binata.

Nakangiti naman itong tumitig.

"Hindi. Nakagugutom ka lang talaga." Kindat nito.

"Bastos

ka talaga!" hinagis niya ang table napkin na natatawa naman nitong sinalo.

"Huwag kang magulo. Ini-imagine kong ito 'yong hinagis mo kanina sa 'kin." Natatawa
nitong sambit.

"Maniac!" She wasn't able to control herself from hitting him with the spoon.
Mabilis naman itong umilag.

"I'm just kidding." Tawang-tawa nitong saad.

Inirapan naman niya ito at umupo ng tuwid.

"Pero seryoso, naaamoy ko pa talaga." Natatawa nitong saad. She knows he's teasing
but her face reddened. Parang ngayon lang kasi nag-sink in ang ginawa niya kanina.
Ano ba kasing pumasok sa isip niya at ginawa 'yon?

Nakahihiya.

"Anong amoy?" Nakangisi niyang saad. She tried to mask her shyness with a grin. If
she'd show him that she's affected, he'd tease her more. She is sure of that.

Vance looked at her amused for the nth time. Then he grinned widely.

"Amoy-dagat." Natatawa nitong sambit.

"Loko ka talaga!" Natatawa niya itong hinampas sa braso. Tumawa din ito.

For a moment, they were like kids teasing each other.

"Come, let's watch the sunset." Anyaya nito nang makahuma at hinila na siya patayo.

Nagpatianod na lang din siya. They went to the topdeck. He guided her to sit on the
bench facing the sunset.

Umupo naman ito paharap sa kanya.

She suddenly felt awkward. Pabukaka kasi ang pagkakaupo nito sa tagiliran niya at
ang lapit-lapit pa.

"Umayos ka nga ng upo." Saad niya rito.

She didn't look at him.

"Maayos naman ah." Bulong nito. He fixed her hair at the back of her ears.
Nililipad kasi ito ng hangin.
"This is the most beautiful sunset I've ever seen." He mumbled on her ear.
Sinulyapan niya lang ito. Akala niya sa mukha niya ito nakatingin, hindi pala.

She didn't say anything. Maganda naman kasi talaga ang sunset. Maganda pala talaga
kapag nasa tuktok ng barko at kitang-kita.

"What are you doing?" tanong niya nang makitang may hawak na itong phone.

"I can't help it. I had to capture the beautiful sight." Nakangiti naman nitong
tugon. He lifted his foot. Umayos ito ng upo sa tabi niya.

"So how many boyfriends have you had before me?" tanong nito sa kanya.

She stilled but later gained her momentum.

"Before you talaga?" Natatawa naman niyang balik-tanong.

Seryoso ba talaga ito?

"Yes. Before me." He said and held her hand.

Natahimik siya ng ilang saglit bago nagpasyang sumagot.

"Wala." Tugon niya sa binata.

"Seryoso? Wala kang ex-boyfriend?" tanong ni Vance at tumitig sa kanya. Natatawa

naman siyang tumango.

"Wow! It's an honor to be your first." His voice sounds teasing. Napailing na lang
siya.
"Just so you know, you are also my first girlfriend." Natatawa nitong dagdag.
Kinabig siya nito payakap at hinalikan sa noo.

That made her heart beats erratically fast. Parang gusto niya rin ang ideyang sila
na nga talaga.

"Are you really sure about this?" tanong niya sa binata. Tiningala niya ito.
Tumitig naman

ito sa kanya at ngumiti.

"Baka naman isa lang ako sa mga babaeng niloloko mo?" Tiningnan niya ito ng matiim.
Sumeryoso naman ang ekspresyon nito.

"Wala pa akong babaeng niloko." Vance muttered.

"Ang dami mo kayang babae."

"Before I bed anyone, they know that's just it, no more, no less." Bumitaw ito sa
kanya at tumanaw sa papalubog na araw.

Napalunok pa siya sa seryoso nitong tono.

"With you it's totally different." Tumitig ito sa kanya bago ibinalik ang tingin sa
karagatan.

"I like you not just for a night or a day. Maybe you really are special." Vance
added.

Huminga siya ng malalim para pigilan ang bilis ng pagtibok ng puso niya.

This man seems to know how to tame her wild heart.

Kahit na ayaw niya sa mga lalaking tipo nito, hindi niya maitatangging nagugustuhan
niya na rin ito.
Hinawakan nito ang kamay niya at marahang hinagkan. Nanatili siyang nakatitig rito.

"I'll make it clear to you. I have different women in the past but I never had any
relationship with them more than sexual." Umpisa nito. He looks and sounds so
sincere.

"If we'll make ours official, I promise all those women will vanish. You will only
be the one."

She didn't know if it was his eyes or the way he said it that made her entire
senses nod.

Ngumiti naman ang lalaki at agad siyang niyakap ng mahigpit.

They stayed like that for a moment.

Natatawa siyang bumitaw nang magsink-in sa utak niya ang nangyayari.

"Tayo na

ba talaga?" natatawa niyang tanong sa binata.

Vance smiled and kissed her quickly on the lips. She momentarily closed her eyes to
make the kiss linger.

"Yes," he nodded and smiled when their lips parted.

She is not sure if this was right but she's happy.

Bahala na si batman!

"Hoy, huwag kang mambabae, ha." Natatawa niya itong hinampas sa dibdib.
"Depende." Nakangisi naman nitong tugon.

"Anong depende? Kakasabi mo lang kanina, I will only be the one."

"It depends if you'd satisfy me in bed." Natatawa nitong sagot.

"Maniac ka talaga."

Vance only laughed and hugged her tight. They stayed like that for a moment before
Vance released her from his embrace.

"Ano ngayon na?" kindat nito nang tingnan niya ito. She was a bit lost. Saka lang
niya nakuha ang ibig nitong sabihin nang kinagat nito ang pang-ibabang labi.

"Break na tayo!" irap niya rito. Natatawa naman itong tumayo at hinila siya.

"No way sweetheart." He said laughing. It was already getting dark. Nakita niya ang
ilang staff na naglatag ng mat sa open area ng deck at naglagay ng mga cushions at
throw pillows. Hinila naman siya ng binata papunta roon.

They laid there looking at the endless sky. Unti-unting nagsilabasan ang mga
bituin. It was magnificent. Nakadagdag pa ang lamig ng hangin.

Unti-unting lumapit ang binata at hinila siya payakap sa dibdib nito.

She could feel his heart beating fast.

Vance played her hair as they both stared at the horizon.

"I have an idea," Vance muttered a while later.

"What is it?" tanong naman niya sa binata.

He kept playing on her hair.

"Sa tuwing magbubuntis ka, we'll go cruising. Tapos kung saang bansa ka aabutin ng
panganganak, 'yon ang ipapangalan natin sa mga babies natin." Hayag nito. Bigla pa
siyang napaupo at tiningnan ang mukha nito. Seryoso naman itong tumingala sa kanya.

"Buntis? Anak? Ganyan na talaga ang nasa isip mo?" kunot-noo niyang tanong rito.
She didn't know why her heart beats fast imagining how is it going to be.

"Ano namang problema?" Natatawa nitong tugon at umupo rin.

Ngumiti ito ng nakakaloko bago nagsalita.

"I'm already done fantasizing you in bed. Fast forward naman." Natatawa nitong saad
sabay kabig sa kanya.

Her nose landed on his chest.

Shet lungs... Air please...

=================

17. How To Be Vance's GF

Kung ibabase ni Thea sa pagkakakilala niya kay Vance ang lahat ng nangyari,
siguradong hindi siya nito pabababain ng barko nang hindi siya ikinakama. That's
the most appropriate word for it. Pero hindi nito ginawa.
There was no insinuation that he wants to bed her right there and then though his
words may be vulgar at times. Had there be any, she might not have enough courage
to stop him.

Buti na lang.

Kaya kahit anong pagdududa mayroon siya sa totoong intensyon nito sa kanya parang
laging nabubura.

"Do you want to stay for the night?" she even teased when they were outside her
unit but Vance only smiled.

"Sweet offer, my girlfriend but my parents are strict. They want me home at night."
Nakangisi nitong tugon. He pinched her nose soflty. That contact made her stomach
churn.

Napatawa siya sa pahayag ng binata.

"Grabe, para namang may maniniwala diyan sa palusot mo. Baka naman may dadaanan ka
lang na babae kaya ka nagmamadali?" tanong niya rito.

Vance chuckled.

"I told you. Now that we are together, there will be no other." He said dismissing
her idea.

"Talaga lang ha?" Taas-kilay niyang tanong. Tumango naman ito at ngumiti.

"Yeah. Kung gusto mo i-connect ko sa phone mo 'tong gps ng phone ko para alam mo
kung nasaan ako." Seryoso namang tugon ni Vance.
"Eh? OA. Umuwi ka na nga lang." natatawa niya itong itinulak ng mahina.

"Ang cute mo kiligin. Nangtataboy." Natatawa namang tugon ng binata.

She only laughed at what he said.

Vance looked at her with a serious face. His eyes look sleepy.

"I'm going. Mag-lock ka ng pinto." Bilin nito.

Napalunok siya. That sounded so sweet in her ears.

"Huwag ka munang ngumiti. Reserve that after I claim my good night kiss." He
muttered smiling. Lumapit ito at hinapit siya sa baywang. Her heart raced.

She closed her eyes when his lips landed on hers. She opened her mouth to welcome
his tongue. He's now her boyfriend. Walang dahilan para tumanggi pa siya. Besides,
it feels good to be kissed by him.

Humigpit pa lalo ang pagkakahapit nito sa baywang niya. He squeezed her body closed
to him as he nibbled her lips. That felt good. Bahagya pa siyang napaungol. She had
to stop herself. His tongue swirled inside her mouth making her gasp in sweet
sensation.

Yumakap siya ng mahigpit sa binata at mas lalong diniinan ang paghalik rito. But
just as she wants him to continue, he slowly stopped and hugged her tight.

"Good night, sweetheart." He mumbled on her ear before releasing her from his
embrace.

Hindi siya nakagalaw agad nang tuluyan na itong tumalikod at tinungo ang elevator.
She had to inhale deeply to gather her momentum.

Ano yon?
Is he teasing her?

Handa na sana siya.

Batid naman niya na ang mga palikero basta may masilip na pagkakataon siguradong
ipipilit ang gusto. BUT Vance didn't do it just as the opportunity is already open.

Paano ba niyang hindi iisipin

na maganda ang intensiyon nito sa kanya kung nandito na ang lahat ng pagkakataong
gawin ang gusto nito pero pinili nitong huwag gawin?

______

Napatitig si Thea sa mamahaling kotse na nakahimpil sa nakatalagang parking space

niya. Iginala pa niya ang paningin baka nagkamali lang siya ng pinuntahan. Saka
lang niya naalala na naiwan pala sa VLF Building 'yong sasakyan niya kahapon dahil
sa pagsundo sa kanya ni Vance.

Tatalikod na sana siya nang bumukas ang driver's side ng sasakyan.

"Buti na lang on-time ako. Bakit ba kasi hindi ka nagche-check ng phone?" Tanong ni
Vance pagkababa ng sasakyan. He immediately step towards her.

He kissed her lightly on the lips and held her bag.

Pinamulahan pa siya. Mabuti na lang hindi ito nakatingin dahil agad siyang
hinawakan sa kamay at iginiya sa passenger's side ng sasakyan nito.

"Please always remind yourself that you've got a boyfriend who'd call you anytime
of the day." Saad nito.

Boyfriend na talaga niya ang binata? As in?

That thought made her smile.

"Alright." She nodded.

Kahit na may kaunti pa siyang agam-agam kung seryoso nga ito, papanindigan na lang
niya.

"Nag-breakfast ka na?" tanong ni Vance nang makaupo sa driver's seat.

"Yes." Tipid niyang sagot.

"Nag-message ako kanina na sabay na tayo." Kunot-noo nitong baling sa kanya. He

looks disappointed.

Para naman siyang na-guilty kahit na alam niyang

nag-uumpisa pa lang sila sa kung anong mayroon sila ngayon.

"Samahan na lang kita." Tipid niyang sagot sa binata. Nginitian niya ito ng tipid.

"You should." Tugon naman nito bago inandar ang sasakyan.

Tahimik ang binata hanggang makarating sila sa restaurant. Nagsalita lamang ito
nang umorder ng pagkain. Pinapanuod lang naman niya ang galaw nito. Somehow she's
used to seeing him silent after talking too much. Para ngang may quota ang
pagsasalita nito at kapag naabot na ang quota nito, tatahimik na naman.

"How about you ma'am?" Tanong ng waiter sa kanya saka lang natuon sa iba ang
atensyon niya. Nginitian niya ang waiter. She's contemplating if she'd order
something or just plain water.

"My girlfriend won't order anything. Stop staring at her." Vance muttered.
Napatingin pa siya sa binata. Mukha itong badtrip.

"Ano? Ikaw lang ang kakain? Ako din." Natatawa niyang saad rito.

"Akala ko ba tapos ka ng kumain?" Salubong ang kilay nitong tanong.

"Bawal bang umulit?" Balik-tanong niya rito.

She likes teasing him when he's pissed. Lumalabas kasi ang pagiging pikon nito.
Something unexpected from a silent person. Kapag kasi tahimik madalas ang nagiging
notion ay kalmadong tao. A silent person doesn't get pissed at simple things but
Vance is different.

"Tataba ka." Saad nito.

"Ano naman?" Kibit-balikat niya at tiningnang muli ang waiter para sa order niya.

"My girlfriend will take the same order as mine." Vance

stated.

Napatingin siya sa napipikong binata. Pati ang waiter ay napatingin rito.

"Puwede ka ng umalis." Sambit nito sa waiter. Magalang namang tumango ang isa at
nagpaalam.
"Wait I have one more request. Let a waitress serve us, okay?" He said dismissing
the poor boy.

Vance looked at her with a smirk.

She chuckled softly.

"Grabe ang babaero mo talaga. Nag-request ka talaga ng waitress." Biro niya sa

nobyo.

"Dati 'yon. Hindi na ngayon." Vance smiled.

"Dati. Like yesterday." She answered raising an eyebrow.

Vance stared at her.

"Stop moving your thighs under the table." Vance muttered with a beguiling smile.

"How did you know?" Tanong niya rito. She felt a little conscious.

Pati ba naman 'yon napansin nito?

"Your breasts are moving. You're turning me on." He answered grinning.

"Manyak ka talaga!" Pinandilatan niya ito. She felt like her entire face turned
scarlet.

Vance chuckled softly.

"Inano kita no'ng binato mo 'yong bikini mo sa 'kin?" tanong nito.

"Wala." Inis niyang tugon. She pursed her lips so as to stop herself from
reprimanding him.

"So I am not a maniac. Stop calling me that." Tiningnan siya nito ng seryoso.

She felt silent for a moment. Bigla kasing naging matiim ang mga titig nito.

"Nasasaktan ka kapag tinatawag kita ng manyak?" Mahina niyang tanong sa binata.

"Hindi. Nasasarapan." Vance smirked.

"Sumeryoso ka nga."

"Seryoso naman

ako sa 'yo." Vance muttered smiling.

She rolled her eyes at him. Tinawanan naman siya nito at kinindatan.

Ang bilis lang talaga nitong magpalit ng ekspresyon. Napailing na lang siya.

"Ang cute talaga ng reaction mo kapag kinikilig ka." Natatawa nitong saad.

"Pa-kiss nga." Sambit nito bago dumukwang at hinalikan siya ng mabilis sa labi.
Hindi na siya nakatanggi pa.

She had to brush her face to stop it from blushing. Napansin niya kasing marami-
rami pala ang tao sa loob ng restaurant.

Si Vance kasi.
__________

Vance didn't let go of her hand pagpasok nila ng VLF. Lahat tuloy ng kasalubong
nila ay napapatingin.

Pinamumulahan na siya pero ipinagkibit-balikat na lamang niya.

She was thinking if Vance isn't serious about this realationship with her, he would
have not display this much in his own building.

Kaya lahat na yata ng agam-agam niya, nawawala. Considering that they only started
yesterday.

This man has his way of enchanting her.

She almost gasp when they entered the office. It was decorated with her favorite
flower- gerbera in different colors and varieties. Sobrang gandang tingnan.

"Like it?" Vance mumbled in her ear.

Tatango na sana siya nang dugtungan nito ang tanong.

"Ang sweet ko 'di ba?" tatawa-tawa nitong dagdag. Okay na sana. Nasobrahan pa.

Naiiling na lamang siyang pumunta sa puwesto niya. Hindi naman ito nagsalita.
Kumindat lang ito nang mapadako ang tingin niya rito bago hinarap ang mga
dokumentong nasa mesa nito.

They were both silent and engrossed in their own works.

He only nudge when it was snack time. Ipinasok kasi ng sekretarya ang ipina-deliver
nitong cake.

Inaya siya nito sa may dining area nang makalabas ang sekretarya.

He took out two cans of soda from the small fridge. Kumuha din ito ng saucers,
tinidor at breadknife.

Kumpleto talaga ito ng gamit. Halatang handy ito sa loob ng opisina. Akala niya
pang-effect lang ang mini-kitchen nito sa opisina, ginagamit pala talaga nito.

She took the liberty to take the cake out from its box.

Hindi niya napigilang mapangiti sa ka-corny-han ng dedication.

"Convinced that I am a sweet boyfriend?" Vance asked. Hindi niya napigilang tumango
nang yumakap ito mula sa likuran niya at humalik ng marahan sa leeg niya.

God. His smell is really addicting.

Ano kayang pabango nito?

Huminga siya ng malalim at pilit tinanggal ang ideya sa isip niya.

Napatitig na lang siya sa cake para ibaling ang atensyon.

It read:

Thea sweet <3

I feel like celebrating every single day being your boyfriend.

Vance sweet <3

=================

18. Chemical Romance

Vance didn't let Thea drive her car. Hatid-sundo siya ng binata araw-araw. They'd
dine out before going home. He stays a little bit longer on her unit at night. They
talk about anything. Sometimes they kiss. Most of the time they cuddle up until
midnight but he never stays 'til morning. He never even insinuates that they'd do
more than kissing.

Masaya siya na para ngang maganda ang umpisa nila. They always click. Palibhasa
pareho sila ng hilig. Most of their conversations are about the latest in science
innovations.

Masaya siyang kausap ang binata dahil marami rin siyang natututunan kahit na palagi
nitong sinasabi na mas marami daw itong natututunan sa kanya. Well, she doesn't buy
it. Malayo kasing mas marami itong alam kaysa sa kanya sa mga bagay-bagay.

_______

It was a lazy Saturday for Thea. Lalabas sila dapat ng mga kaibigan niya pero nag-
cancel ang mga ito kaninang umaga lang.
She lazily went to the door when she heard the door bell. Huminga siya ng malalim
nang makita si Vance sa CCTV monitor.

Great. Ihahatid pala siya dapat nito sa restaurant kung saan sila magkikita-kita ng
mga kaibigan niya. Sa sobrang inis niya, nakalimutan niyang tawagan para ipaalam na
hindi sila matutuloy.

"Akala ko ba 10AM ka lalabas? Bakit hindi ka pa bihis." Bungad ng binata. Agad

itong yumakap at humalik sa noo niya.

"Hindi kami matutuloy." Walang gana niyang tugon rito at bumalik na sa couch. She
opened the television. Pasalampak siyang umupo.

Vance looked at her with a creased forehead.

"What's with that look?"

tanong niya sa binata. Umupo naman ito sa tabi niya.

Tumitig ito ng matiim bago naiiling na ibinaling sa T.V. ang tingin.

"May problema ba?" tanong niya ulit rito nang hindi magsalita.

She was more puzzled when he took the remote control and turned off the T.V.

Huminga ito ng malalim bago muling tumitig sa kanya.

"I only told you that I'd like to be introduced to your friends, nag-cancel ka na
ng lakad niyo." hayag nito.

Napanganga siya sa sinabi ng binata.

"Don't you want them to know that I'm your boyfriend?"

Hindi niya napigilang mapatawa sa tanong ng binata. Idagdag pa ang seryoso nitong
mukha.

"Huwag mo nga akong pagtawanan." Inis nitong saad nang makita ang reaksyon niya.
Hinila siya nito palapit.

She chuckled more when he gently bit her earlobe. It gave her goosebumps.

"Tama na." Natatawa niyang pigil sa binata nang akmang uulitin nito ang ginawa. She
covered both her ears with her palms.

"Pagtawanan mo pa ako. Hindi lang 'yan ang kakagatin ko." Naghahamon nitong saad.
Marahan siya nitong binitawan.

Itinikom naman niya ang bibig para pigilan ang sariling tumawa. Nang tingnan niya
ang binata, seryoso itong nakatingin sa kanya.

"Bakit ayaw mo akong ipakilala sa mga kaibigan mo?" diretso nitong tanong.

"Anong ayaw? Hindi lang kami natuloy, ayaw na kitang ipakilala?" balik-tanong niya
rito.

There must be some truth to what he's claiming. Hindi pa talaga siya handang
sabihin sa mga kaibigan na sila na. Halos isang linggo pa lang naman kasing naging
sila. She's still unsure.

Isa pa, alam niyang makakarinig siya ng kaunting salita mula sa mga kaibigan kahit
na botong-boto sila kay Vance.

"Nag-cancel nga kasi sila dahil may iba silang gagawin." Dagdag niya. Kung sakaling
natuloy sila, wala naman siyang ibang choice kundi aminin sa mga kaibigan ang
namamagitan sa kanila ni Vance lalo na at ihahatid siya ng binata.

"Will you answer me honestly? Ako lang ba ang seryoso sa relasyon natin?"

That question from Vance made her static. Hindi niya alam kung mangingiti o
kikiligin o kakantiyawan ito sa naging tanong. The question wasn't so Vance-like.

"Bakit seryoso ka naman ba talaga sa 'kin?" nangingiti niyang tanong nang makitang
naghihintay ang ito ng sagot.

"Of course," he answered immediately.

She wasn't able to answer right away. Her heart beats fast. Hindi niya alam kung
sasalubungin ang tingin ng binata o yuyuko na lang.

"Hey," untag nito nang hindi siya magsalita.

She gazed at Vance's green eyes.

"That's good." Wala sa sarili niyang tugon.

"Order na lang tayo ng pagkain. Gutom lang 'yan." Natatawa niyang biro sa binata.
She took her phone from the center table at nag-dial na lang para sa pizza
delivery.

Napatingin siya sa binata nang agawin nito ang phone niya.

"Ako na. Baka lalaki ang sasagot ma-inlove pa sa boses mo." Saad nito bago nakipag-
usap sa telepono. Ngumiti pa ito sa kanya at kumindat.

Bakit maganda ba ang boses niya?

She immediately brushed her face using her palm. May lahi talaga ang binata na
magaling mambola. Nauto na naman yata siya.

/>

________

They spent the whole day teasing each other, chatting, cuddling and watching movies
at her couch.

Bandang hapon nang mag-ring ang cellphone ng binata. Humakbang ito papuntang
kusina. She overheard him talking to Mac. She doesn't want to pry kaya itinuon na
lamang niya ang pansin sa pinapanuod.
Nakangiti itong bumalik sa tabi niya matapos ang ilang minuto.

"Mac's inviting us to go out for dinner. Lalabas din daw sila ni Stacy. Double date
tayo?" Nakangiti nitong saad.

"Hindi ko talaga lubos-maisip kung paano mo naging bestfriend ang Macintosh na

'yon. Puro kalokohan lang alam no'n eh." Komento niya.

Napatitig ang binata sa kanya.

"He's a cool guy. Hindi mo lang siya lubusang kilala kaya ganyan." Tugon naman
nito.

"Baka naman nagkakasundo lang kayo sa pambababae kaya siya cool."

Vance smiled at her remark.

"Maybe." He muttered grinning. Nahampas tuloy niya ito sa dibdib na agad naman
nitong sinalag. Hindi man lang kasi itinanggi.

"Dati yon." Natatawa nitong bawi nang makita ang reaksyon ng mukha niya.

"But he's really a good friend. You'll just have to know him well."

Tumango na lamang siya at hindi na nagkomento pa. Naniniwala din naman kasi siya na
lahat ng tao may kabutihan.

"Sino naman si Stacy? Girlfriend niya?" tanong niya sa binata. Tumawa naman ito at
nagkibit-balikat.

"I bet your morals wouldn't wanna know." Natatawa nitong sambit.

Hindi na siya nagtanong pa. Kahit hindi nito sabihin ng diretso alam niyang baka
relasyong sekswal lang ang mayroon sa dalawa.

"So

ano, maligo ka na? Hindi ka pa naliligo buong maghapon. Parang may iba nang amoy,
oh." Natatawa nitong sambit. Yumakap pa ito at inamoy ang leeg niya.

She rolled her eyes.

She knows he's teasing her again. Kakaligo nga lang niya kaninang umaga nang
dumating ito. Hindi rin sila pinawisan dahil malamig naman ang aircon sa loob ng
unit niya.

"I have an idea." Nakangisi itong tumunghay sa mukha niya habang yakap pa rin siya
ng mahigpit.

Kunot-noo naman siyang tumitig rito.

"Sasabayan na lang kitang maligo." Kindat nito. His green eyes flickered.

Bahagya siyang natigilan. Naalala niya kasi ang nakita niya noon sa loob ng space
nito sa library. His eyes were flickering with desire as the girl is doing
something on his manhood.

Marahan siyang bumitaw sa yakap nito. She stood up.

"Anong oras daw ba tayo magkikita-kita?" kaswal niyang tanong sa binata.

"Around seven. We'll have dinner then stroll around anywhere after." Tugon nito.

Tumayo rin ito at lumapit sa kanya. He held her hand and gently kissed it. Lagi
naman nitong ginagawa ang bagay na 'yon pero ewan niya kung bakit bigla siyang
naasiwa. It felt like the kiss meant differently.

"Umuwi ka na lang kaya muna para magbihis. Balikan mo na lang ako after an hour or
magta-taxi na lang ako papunta sa restaurant."

"Dito na lang ako maliligo. I have spare clothes at my car." Kindat nito.

Nahigit niya ang paghinga. She stepped a little backwards. Nakangisi naman itong
humakbang palapit. She took another step backward. Humakbang ulit

ito palapit.

Her heart beats are racing. Ilang hakbang na lang tatama na ang likod niya sa
pintuan ng kuwarto. This already happened in a lot of trope series. She doesn't
know what to feel. Nakaka-kilig pala talaga na nakaka-kaba.

"Somebody's chickening out." Vance teased. Lumapit ito at hinapit siya sa baywang.
He held her chin up. Napalunok siya.

Why do his eyes need to be that seductive?

Kapag nakita niya kung kanino nito namana ang mga matang iyon, mapagsasabihan niya
talaga.

Iba talaga ang karisma, eh.

He pinned her against the door and smiled triumphantly.

Her eyes automatically shut when his lips crushed hers. His tongued smoothly made
its way inside her half-opened mouth. She even gasped... or moaned? She's not sure.

The man's a good kisser no doubt. Namalayan na lamang niya ang sariling nakayakap
at sinasabayan ang mga halik nito. She let him kissed her and devoured her mouth as
she did the same to his.

Napakapit siya sa braso nito nang unti-unti nitong ibaba ang kamay at marahang
iangat ang suot niyang blouse. His hand traced and massaged her tummy as he kissed
her hardly. Mapangahas ang mga halik nito. She felt the needing and wanting... and
she doesn't understand why it makes her yearn more of his kisses. Sinabayan niya
ang intensidad ng mga halik nito.

Though, he's giving her a lot of pleasures and her body pines for more, a part of
her brain are against it.

Tinapik niya ang kamay ng binata nang akmang itataas nito ang suot niyang bra.

Dahan-dahan siyang kumalas sa halik nito.

"Not yet." She whispered.

Vance looked at her with a creased forehead. Sa unang pagkakataon simula nang
pagbigyan niya itong halikan siya, ngayon lang niya nakita ang mukha nitong
dismayado sa pagpigil niya rito.

"No woman had ever made me wait." He whispered as he kissed her again. His hand
roamed on her back. His kiss landed down to her neck. It was giving her a lot more
pleasure but a part of her mind panicked of what is about to happen.

She inhaled deeply.

"Bull's eye!" she said loud enough. Nagulat siya nang biglang bumukas ang pinto at
pareho silang nabuwal sa sahig. Vance is on top of her but his hand immediately
supported her head kaya hindi ito tumama sa sahig.

Bakit conscious ang binata?

Hindi ba ito natamaan ng chemical gun?

Agad na tumayo si Vance. Iniabot nito ang kamay para tulungan siyang makatayo.

Did the sedating chemicals expire?

Or

Did he coincidentally open the door when she said the words?

Lumabas ito ng kuwarto at tiningnan ang pader kung saan nakalagay ang chemical gun.
He took the small syringe from the floor.

"Sedative? Really? May balak ka bang pikutin ako kaya mo ako patutulugin?" natatawa
nitong tanong.

She wasn't able to answer. Napatitig siya sa binata. Itinapon nito ang syringe sa
basurahan. He's a real genius. Alam agad nito kung ano 'yon.

"Do you think I am going to insist myself and rape you?" Vance smirked when he
returned in front of her.

Hindi niya alam kung bakit na-guilty siya. Kung hindi ito naging maagap sa pagbukas
ng pinto baka tulog

na ito ngayon.

Para na ring criminal ang tingin niya rito dahil sa ginawa niya.

But who can blame her? She had those guns to protect her. Ginamit lang naman niya.

"I thought you are going to take advantage of me." She said without thinking
further.

"Really?" He muttered. His eyes look hurt.

"If I wanted to take advantage of you, I would have done it in the cruise ship. You
practically stripped in front of me." Saad nito.

Hindi siya nagsalita. May punto naman kasi ito.

"It was so easy to run after you but I did not..."

She inhaled deeply. Ramdam niya ang hinanakit sa boses nito.

"...because my respect for you is higher than my libido." He added.

Her heart crumbled. Naramdaman niya ang sama ng loob nito sa bawat katagang
binitawan.

"I'm sorry. I panicked. Sabi mo kasi 'no woman had ever made me wait'." Natutuliro
niyang depensa.

"I was about to add that you are an exemption." Pagak itong tumawa. Mas lalo tuloy
siyang kinain ng kosensya niya.

Why did she ever think that he's an enemy?

Kung sana sinabihan niya ito baka nga naman titigil din ito. She didn't have to use
the weapon like he's a fucking criminal.

"Sorry." She mumbled. Nahihiya siyang sumulyap rito. There was a long silence
before Vance spoke.

"Okay, sa isang kondisyon." Seryoso nitong saad.

Napatitig siya rito. She nodded shyly.

"Let's continue where we left off, sweetheart." Kindat nito. He moved a step closer
and held her waist.

Hindi makapaniwalang tumitig siya rito.

"I'm just kidding!" He lightly pinched her nose and chuckled.

"Maligo ka na. I'll come back to fetch you before 7PM." Saad nito. He kissed her
forehead before releasing her.

She wasn't able to react. Ngumiti ito bago natatawang tumalikod at tuluyang lumabas
ng unit.
[A/N: Huwag kayong mag-alala. I'm so frustrated to finish this story. Araw-arawin
natin ang update.]

=================

19. Pagbabanta

Thea felt relieved when Vance came to fetch her. Parang walang nangyari kaninang
hindi maganda dahil masaya ulit silang nagkuwentuhan habang papunta sa restaurant.

Mac immediately rose up when he saw them. May kasama itong magandang babae. Hinapit
naman siya sa baywang ni Vance habang papunta sa table ng mga ito.

Pansin niya ang sulyap ng mga taong nadadaanan nila. It must be because of Vance
brown boots, black jeans, and long sleeve polo, folded up to his elbow.

Ang guwapo kasi tingnan.

"Your dress is too sexy you're drawing attention." Bulong ni Vance sa kanya.
Napatingala siya sa mukha ng nobyo. Seryoso naman itong sumulyap sa kanya.

"Ikaw kaya ang tinitingnan." Natatawa naman niyang tugon. He only answered her with
a pinch on her belly as he draws her closer to him.

"Ang higpit, bro." Kantiyaw ni Mac nang makalapit sila. Ang lakas lang ng boses
nito. Vance chuckled. Saka lang niya nakuha ang ibig sabihin ng lalaki nang pisilin
ni Vance ang tagiliran niya bago binitawan.
"That's Macintosh. You already know him. No need to shake the asshole's hand."
Hayag ni Vance. Natawa lang naman ang kaibigan nito.

"She's Stacy, Mac's date. Stacy, this is Thea, my girlfriend." Pagpapakilala nito
sa babae. The girl smiled and extended her hand. Kinamayan naman niya ito. Stacy is
so sexy and beautiful in her yellow body-hugging dress. Mabuti na lang pala nag-
dress

din siya. She doesn't feel left out.

"I have something to tell you since you look nice naman. I will give you a friendly
advice about this guy who calls you girlfriend." Nakangiti nitong saad nang makaupo
sila. Itinuro pa nito si Vance.

She sat infront of Stacy. Mac sat beside the girl while Vance sat beside her. Agad
siyang inakbayan ng nobyo.

"Don't believe her. Ngayon ko lang siya nakita." Bulong nito.

"I heard that." Stacy said smirking at Vance. Pinaglipat niya lang ang tingin sa
dalawa.

"Vance was my classmate at Singapore University five years ago. We both had weekend
crash course in business administration." The girl added. Parang gusto niyang
matawa nang mahuling pinandilatan ito ni Vance.

Why does he need to deny it anyway? May dapat ba siyang malaman?

If the girl would tell her how many women Vance had, that is no longer new to her.
Alam na alam naman niya kung gaano ito kababaero. And she doesn't understand why
she still likes him despite that.

"I'll give her the website para makita niyang magkaklase talaga tayo." nakataas-
kilay na birada ng babae. Macintosh laughed at the two.

"It was Vance who introduced Stacy to me." Natatawang saad ni Mac. Nakita niyang
napipikon na naman ang nobyo dahil hindi umubra ang pagsisinungaling nito na
kakakilala niya lang sa babae.

Hindi na lamang siya nagsalita baka mas lalo itong mapikon kapag nakitawa siya.
Sukol na sukol kasi ito. Mukha namang nang-aasar lang ang dalawa at talagang
pinipikon lang si Vance.

"Going

back to what I was saying--"

"Let's order food." Vance said cutting Stacy.

"Huwag ka ngang magulo." Irap ng babae kay Vance.

"Babe, order for me please?" baling nito kay Mac na natatawa namang tinanguan ng
isa.

Stacy faced her.

"Thea, listen. If you still haven't had sex with this beast, I am telling you now
better not to." Umpisa nito. She wanted to laugh but at the same time she feels a
little nervous.

Vance resigned to his seat helpless.

"Kasi kapag natikman ka na niya, he'll leave you like he didn't know you at all."

Mac laughed at what Stacy said. Pikon namang humarap si Vance sa babae. Sumulyap pa
ang nobyo sa kanya bago sinagot ang pahayag ng dalaga.

"Listen, lady, Thea and I already made love many times in different positions. So
fuck off and go to hell with Macintosh." Madiin nitong saad. Natawa ang dalawang
kaharap sa sinabi ni Vance.
These three really look like they know each other for a long time. Mukhang
pinipikon lang talaga ng mga ito ang nobyo niya.

But there's a part of her that doubts.

What if it's true?

Paano kung may nangyari na nga sa kanila at iiwanan siya ng binata na parang wala
lang?

She shrugged the thought off. Umukilkil kasi sa isip niya ang sinabi ng nobyo
kanina.

...my respect for you is higher than my libido.

Iyon ang gusto niyang panghawakan.

_______

The dinner went well. They were able to chat about anything. Hindi na muling ininis
ng dalawa si Vance. She

learned that Mac is really fun to be with. Pati si Stacy ay mabait din pala. Mukha
kasing matapang at masungit kapag unang tingin.
Lumipat sila sa isang cozy bar pagkatapos ng dinner at ipinagpatuloy ang kuwentuhan
habang umiinom.

She went to the washroom. Pabalik na siya sa mesa nila nang salubungin siya ni Mac.

"May sasabihin lang ako saglit." Saad nito kaya napatigil siya.

"Ano 'yon?" tanong niya sa binata. She inhaled deeply.

"Vance has been my friend since High school." Umpisa nito. Napatango siya. Vance
already told her that.

"I've never seen him date any woman." Dagdag nito. His voice is serious.

"What are you trying to say?" Natatawa niyang sambit. Kanina si Stacy ang tahasang
nagsasabi sa kanya na layuan ang binata ngayon naman parang iba ang sinasabi ng
kaibigan nitong si Mac.

"That you might be his first heartache. Kaya kung nakikipaglaro ka lang sa kanya,
you better end it." Diretso nitong saad.

Napanganga siya sa sinabi nito.

Lalaki na ngayon ang nagbabanta ng ganyan?

Pambihira.
This must be some kind of joke.

Isn't that supposed to be the other way around?

Ibang klase.

Napatawa siya nang tuluyang mag-sink in sa utak niya ang lahat. Mga kaibigan niya
dapat ang nagbabanta kay Vance na huwag siyang lokohin.

Napapailing niyang tinalikuran ang lalaki. Malamang pakana lang ito ni Vance na
kunwari kakausapin siya ng kaibigan nito.

"Hey Thea! Kausap pa kita." Habol ni Mac. Akmang hahawakan siya

sa braso nang makita niyang may pumigil sa kamay ng binata.

Nang mag-angat siya ng tingin, galit na mukha ni Vance ang sumalubong sa kanya.

He was staring intently at Macintosh.

"I never touched any woman you've dated before, Mac. Show some respect to my
girlfriend." Madiin nitong saad. Saglit siyang natuliro.

"I didn't know you're a jealous man, Filan." Mac smirked at Vance.

Nagsukatan ng tingin ang dalawa. She felt nervous. Pareho kasing matipuno at
matangkad ang dalawa. She couldn't imagine if they'd beat each other.

"In-love ka na talaga kay Thea sweetheart." Natatawang saad ni Mac matapos itong
makipagsukatan ng tingin. Aakbay sana ito sa kanya pero mabilis siyang hinila ni
Vance payakap.

"I told you not to touch my girlfriend. You know what I am capable of doing." Galit
na wika ni Vance sa kaibigan.
Humawak siya sa braso ng nobyo. She felt like hugging him to appease his anger.
Wala naman kasi itong dapat ikagalit o ikaselos.

Ngumisi si Mac na mas lalong ikinatagis ng bagang ni Vance.

"Wow! Have you forgotten I was your mentor in all your sneaky moves? Ako na ngayon
ang pinagbabantaan mo. In-love ka na talaga Vancee baby." Nakakaloko nitong sambit.

"Gago!" Malutong namang mura ni Vance. Macintosh only laughed at her boyfriend.

"Just so you know, hindi ko natutunan sa 'yo lahat ng kalokohang alam ko. It runs
in my blood idiot." Saad nito bago siya hinila paalis sa harap nito.

"Vance! Ninong pa rin ako ha!" Sigaw pa ng binata bago sila tuluyang nakalayo sa
kinaroroonan nito.

She almost thought they'd fight. Now she understands that the two has that strong
kind of friendship. Parang 'yong sa kanila ng kaibigan niya na nagsasagutan rin
minsan at nagkakapikunan pero hindi naman tuluyang nag-aaway. 'Yong klase ng
pagkakaibigang haba ng panahon lang ang kayang magpatibay.

_________

Vance inhaled deeply when they settled inside his car.

"Huwag mong paniwalaan 'yong dalawa. Parehong may tama sa utak ang dalawang 'yon
kaya magkasundo." Saad nito para putulin ang katahimikan.

She looked at him with a smug smile.

She remembers how Mac told her not to prolong their relationship if she means to
hurt Vance in the process.

Nakaiinis na nakatatawang baliktad ang nangyaring pagbabanta. Her friends should

really be the ones telling Vance about that.

Sa pagitan nilang dalawa, ito pa talaga ang masasaktan?

Does that mean Vance is really serious about her that even his friend is a little
afraid of his changes?

Napailing na lamang siya sa naisip.

"Ibig sabihin pareho din tayong may tama sa utak kaya tayo magkasundo?" natatawa
niyang balik-tanong sa binata.

Vance smiled.

"Hindi sa utak. May tama sa puso." Natatawa nitong sambit.

She didn't know why the simple remark made her heart flutter. Kahit na parang nang-
uuto lang ito.
[MINORS, skip the next chapter. Totoo na ito. Saglit lang. Maaga pa.]

=================

20. Teach Me

[Somebody asked for this size. Wish granted. Haha! And sorry for the asterisks.]

Strictly for Mature Readers Only.

Parang pinawisan pa si Thea sa sinabi ni Vance. Natatawa siyang kumuha ng tissue sa

dashboard at pinunasan ang noo.

She was about to throw the tissue on the waste bin at the middle when something
silvery sparkled against the car's light.

Curiousity drew her to pick it up.

"Hey, basura yan. Bakit mo hinahawakan?" Vance muttered. Napatingin siya rito.
Mukhang pipigilan siya pero huli na dahil nadampot na niya ang isa.

It was a sealed foil pack na kagaya ng ipinakita nito noong interview niya.

Condoms. She saw a lot of it in the waste bin. Mukhang hindi pa nabubuksan lahat.

"Bakit mo ibinasura? Sayang ang dami, oh." Natatawa niyang sambit.

Vance's eyes became a bit restless. Then they settled on the steering wheel.

"Wala na akong paggagamitan niyan." He said nonchalantly. He glanced at her. Nag-

iba rin agad ang direksyon ng mga mata nito.

She pursed her lips to stop herself from laughing. Itatapon na sana niya ang condom
sa basurahan nang mabasa ang size nito.
"How big is XL?" Hindi niya mapigilang itanong sa binata.

Vance looked at her with a blank expression. Natatawa niyang ibinalik sa basurahan
ang sachet at naglagay ng maraming sanitizing gel sa kamay. Inulit-ulit pa talaga
niya ang paglalagay.

"So, gaano nga kalaki?" Natatawa niyang biro sa binata.

Iniabot niya ang sanitizing gel. Wala pa yata sa sariling naglagay din ito sa
kamay.

She feels like teasing him again. Mukha kasi itong natuliro.

"Length lang at circumference." She beamed.

Umeepekto na ba ang nainom niya kanina kaya hindi na siya nahihiya sa mga tanong
niya?

No. She is sober. Mataas ang tolerance niya sa alcohol.

Tumingin naman ito sa kanya na parang nananantiya.

"Ayaw mong sabihin? I-google ko na lang." Natatawa niyang saad. She brought out her
phone to tease him.

"Do you wanna see it in flesh?" Vance muttered.

That question caught her off guard.

"Siguraduhin mo lang na kapag tiningnan mo, hahawakan mo." Dagdag nito.

His green eyes seem to pierce through her soul.

She felt a little tensed.

Napalunok siya. Parang na-imagine pa niya.

Shit.

Does it look the same the last time she saw it? Pero matagal na 'yon.

"Kapag hinawakan mo, hindi ka na makakawala." Dagdag nito.

Napahawak siya sa upuan nang gumalaw ito. Vance must have pushed a button kaya
umatras ng ilang pulgada ang mga upuan nila.

He stared at her while holding the edge of his button fly.

"Yes or yes, sweetheart?" Vance eyes were burning with desire. She can almost feel
it. His adam's apple is moving rhythmically while waiting for her go signal.

"I have two options, right?" Napapalunok niyang tanong. Her heart beats eratically
fast.

Tumango si Vance at ngumiti ng nakakaloko. His hand didn't leave his button fly.

Kung sakali pangalawang beses niya lang makakakita

ng gano'n. The first time was when she accidentally saw him during their college
days.

And Vance is giving her two options, it's either she says yes or yes.

"Yes," she mumbled almost choking. Vance immediately opened his button fly. Ibinaba
nito ng kaunti ang pants. He released it from his boxers.

She held her breath. Gusto niyang takpan ang mga mata pero hindi niya magawa. His
big manhood sprang up. It pretty looks the same than the last time, only longer and
bigger now.

O baka dahil sobrang lapit lang ngayon?

Tangina, memorize niya talaga kung ano ang itsura dati.

Ilang beses niya itong napanaginipan noon. Some of those nights made her wet. Kaya
kahit na sinong lalaki ayaw niyang patulan. Men always remind her of Vance's c*ck.

She blushed at the thought. Ngayon lang niya tahasang inamin sa sarili ang mga
bagay na 'yon.

Vance's thigh moved to the space between their seats. She was able to see it
better. It stands long and mighty. Vance slowly took her hand.

"Give me a hand job, sweetheart?" He mumbled softly in her ears brushing his tongue
along her earlobe. It made her entire body tensed in hot sensation.

She stared at his eyes and saw longing and desire. Iginiya nito ang kamay niya para
hawakan ang pagkakalalaki nito. She inhaled deeply. Napayuko siya.

Holy cow. How to hold it?

It looks like she couldn't even grip it with just a hand.

"Ang lakas mong mang-asar kanina. Hindi mo naman pala alam."

Iniangat nito ang mukha niya at hinalikan siya ng magaan sa labi bago tumitig at

ngumiti.

"Put my pants back bago pa magbago ang isip ko." Natatawa nitong saad at hinalikan
siyang muli sa labi.

She closed her eyes.

"I want to do that hand job. Teach me." She muttered in Vance's ear as she held the
tip of his throbbing manhood. It was hard, big and hot.

"Your hands are cold." Sambit naman ng binata. Niyakap siya nito at isinubsob sa
dibdib nito. She could sense his abnormal breathing.

"It's because it's too hot, sweetheart." She answered grinning. Tiningala niya ito.
She held his manhood just like how she thinks it should be held. Ipinalibot niya
ang dalawang kamay sa mataba nitong pagkalalaki.

Vance smiled and bit his lower lip. It looked so sensual. Pinadausdos niya pababa
ang mga palad na nakapalibot sa pagkakalalaki nito. She didn't know why she loved
seeing his eyes flicker at every movement of her hands down there.
"Your hands are soft. It feels good." He whispered. Ibinaba niya pa lalo ang
pagkakahawak sa pagkalalaki nito. Parang hindi pa siya makapaniwala sa haba at laki
nito.

"Don't move." Vance commanded. He cupped her face and kissed her hard on the lips.
Nagpaubaya siya. Her hand remained clasped on his manhood as he kissed him. It felt
good holding him.

"Can you feel that throbbing nerve there?" He asked when their lips parted.

Hindi niya makuha noong una ang sinasabi nito hanggang sa naramdaman niya ang ugat
sa likod ng pagkalalaki nito.

"This?" bahagya niya itong pinisil.

"Yes." Vance said kissing her again.

"Align both your thumbs

on it." He commanded. She obliged right away.

"Now, move your hands up and down." He added.

She did it slowly as he ordered.

"Shit. That's it!" He muttered when she started gliding her hands up and down his
hard c*ck. Pinaabot niya ito hanggang dulo at pinapadausdos ulit pababa.

Hearing Vance soft moans gave her more energy. Mas lalo niyang pinabilis ang
pagtataas-baba ng mga palad niya habang marahang pinipisil ang ugat nito.

"You're a fast learner, sweetheart." Vance muttered with a lustfulmoan. His

breathing hitched.

That made her even more energized. She can feel his hot throbbing manhood and it
also gives her pleasure.

"Hey." Vance held her head when she moved her head down a little.

Tiningala niya ito.

"Let me try it, sweetheart." She winked before moving her face down to his c*ck.
She moved her tongue out and swiped it on his c*ck's edge.

"Shit!" Vance muttered. His ass moved up a bit. She swirled her tongue on its head
and licked it soflty.

She looked up at him. His eyes were staring lustfully at her.

"Huwag mo akong tingnan." Irap niya rito. Vance smiled and bit his lower lip before
closing his eyes and leaning against the windshield of his car.

She went back licking his hard manhood as she glided her hands up and down.
Pinagsabay niya ang pagdila at pagtaas-baba ng kamay niya sa kahabaan nito. Vance's
moved his ass following the movement of her tongue.

He's breathing hard and moaning. It gave her the confidence to continue what she's
doing. Halos mabulunan
siya nang magsimula itong gumiling at sabayan ang galaw ng bibig niya.

She tried swallowing his c*ck. Pero hanggang ulo lang ang kaya niyang isubo. Pinag-
igihan na lamang niya ang pagtaas-baba sa mga palad niya. She swirled her tongue
fast and hard around the head of his manhood while her hands are gliding up and
down his length.

"That's great, sweetheart." Vance's moans became louder. He's gripping her hair
tightly but she couldn't feel any pain. Binilisan niya ang paggalaw kasabay ng
mabibilis na paghinga ng binata. She went on licking him hard and gliding her hands
up and down.

"Ouch," Napatigil siya nang bigla nitong hilahin ang buhok niya na sanhi para
mapabitaw siya.

The she saw him spurting fluids on his hand. Ginamit nitong pantakip ang isang
kamay para hindi magkalat sa loob ang likidong nagmula sa pagkakalalaki nito.

Kaya pala siya inangat ng binata para hindi siya matalsikan.

There was satisfaction in Vance's face when she stared at it. Nakapikit pa ito.
Inabot niya ang tissue sa dashboard at tinulungan itong punasin ang ilang katas na
umaagos rito.

"I have stolen your innocence." Vance mumbled as he helped her clean the mess.
Inayos nito ang pants.

"Hindi rin." Natatawa niyang tugon sa binata.

Vance smiled wickedly.

"You deserve to be reciprocated." He stated as he gripped her thighs towards their

center. Napahawak pa siya sa headrest ng sasakyan para hindi tuluyang tumama ang
ulo niya sa windshield.

Itinaas nito ang suot niyang dress. Napalunok siya nang hilahin nito pababa ang
suot niyang underwear.

Vance smiled seductively at her when he saw how wet it is.

Her belly churned at the touch of his lips. Marahan nitong hinalikan ang puson
niya. She felt the sensations. His wet lips traced her bikini line making her gasp
for air. Napahigpit ang hawak ng kaliwang kamay niya sa headrest.

Her right hand automatically landed on Vance head when he spread her legs widely
and started assaulting her wetness. Her toes curled at the touch of his lips on her
wet core. Pakiramdam niya ay nilalasahan ng dila nito ang pagkababae niya.

He brushed his tongue on her wetness up to her throbbing cl*t. Nahigit niya ang
paghinga hanggang sa naging putol-putol na ito.

Mas lalong humigpit ang kapit niya sa buhok ng binata. She didn't know where to
place her head. Her eyes are tightly shut. Ang atensyon niya ay nasa dila ni Vance
na nagsimula nang maglaro sa pagkakababae niya. He swirled and nipped it making her
moan louder.

"Ohh Vaaance," she moaned aloud when his hard and hot tongue moved deeper inside
her core. Mabilis ang ginawa nitong pagsipsip at paglabas-masok na sanhi para
mapahiyaw siya sa sobrang sarap. She didn't know it would feel this good.
Ibang-iba.

Her eyes flew open and stared at Vance moving and gagging his tongue on her
wetness. Her breathing hitched at the sight.

She found herself moaning again and again as she closed her eyes and gripped his
head tightly. Her hips grinded towards his hot and sinful tongue. Her toes curled
at the delicious sensations he's giving her.

"Ooohhh, shiiit.." She moaned louder when Vance sipped her cl*t. Pabiling-biling
ang katawan niya sa bawat pagkiwal ng dila nito.

Vance's tongue felt hard as he moved it inside her over and over again. He sipped
and nipped it. She tried to control her moans but it all the more escaped from her
lips hanggang sa naramdaman niya ang matinding sensasyon. She grinds harder as he
flicked his tongue wildly on her wetness until she could no longer held back. She
let out a loud moan before pulling Vance's head. She knows she already reached the
peak.

Vance licked his own lips as he smiled at her seductively.

"Like it?" He asked. Kinintalan siya nito ng mabilis na halik sa labi bago
tinulungang umayos ng upo.

Maingat niyang ibinalik ang underwear at inayos ang suot nanang makahuma mula sa
tindi ng sensasyong nadama.

"What time is it?" she asked Vance. Tumingin naman ito sa relo.

"It's 1: 08 AM." He answered. Nginitian niya ang binata.

She moved closer to him and gave him a peck on lips.

"Happy birthday!" She said smiling at him. It's Vance's 28th birthday.

He looked at her for a moment before smiling. Parang nakita pa niyang nanubig ang
mga mata nito.

Agad siya nitong niyakap ng mahigpit at hinalikan sa noo.

Matagal at mainit ang yakap nito. Ramdam niya ang pagmamahal sa sa bawat hagod nito
sa likod niya. She just let him.

"Thanks sweetheart." Natatawa itong bumitaw matapos ang ilang minuto.

"Don't thank me yet. Let's go to my pad. May aftershock ang birthday gift ko sa
'yo." Nginitian niya ito ng matamis.

He looked at her with a knowing smile.

"Kailangan natin ng kama." Kindat niya sa binata. Natatawa naman nitong ibinalik
ang upuan nila sa dating puwesto at saka nag-drive.
[A/N: Wet lang may isa pa. I mean wait...Hehe! Para minsanan ang SPG updates. ]

=================

21: Best Birthday Gift

Strictly for Mature Readers Only.

"Wala bang celebration mamaya para sa birthday niyo?" tanong ni Thea kay Vance
habang papunta na sila sa condo niya. Lagi kasi siya noong may invitation kapag
birthday ng triplets kaya hinding-hindi niya makakalimutan ang birthday nito.

"We stopped celebrating it with a lot of people after college. Kaming tatlo na lang
ang nagce-celebrate. Inuman maghapon at magdamag." He said glancing at her.

"Baka wala ka ng energy mamaya para sa inuman niyo." Natatawa niyang biro.

Vance smiled.

"I don't mind skipping that celebration. I already received the best gift I could
ever have for my birthday." Kindat nito.

Her heart fluttered.

"Ako ba?" Natatawa niyang tanong.

"Hindi." Natatawa rin nitong tugon.

"Paasa." Irap niya sa binata. Natatawa naman nitong hinuli ang kamay niya at
hinalikan.

Her heart beats faster again.

"So what's the best gift you received?" Tanong niya ulit sa binata. Sumulyap naman
ito sa kanya saka ngumiti at kumindat.

That reminded her of what happened earlier.

"Don't tell me it's my clit?" taas-kilay niyang tanong.

Vance laughed out loud. Gumalaw pa pati ang mga balikat nito sa katatawa.
Tiningnan naman niya ito ng masama.

"You are slowly inheriting my attitude." He muttered chuckling.

Nagiging bastos na rin ba siyang magsalita?

"The best gift I received so far is Thea Kimberly Samaniego." He said smiling
widely. Hinalikan

nitong muli ang kamay niyang hawak-hawak nito.

Bakit ba ang galing magpakilig ng hayop na 'to?

"Bakit so far?" kunot-noo niyang tanong sa binata.

Does that mean there could be better gift than her? Nakakainsulto naman.

"Malay natin after few month--" sinadya nitong ibitin ang sasabihin.

Magbreak na sila at makahahanap na ito ng iba gano'n kaya?

"Ano?" Kunot-noo siyang naghintay sa pahayag nito.

"Malay natin after few months ipanganak si Russia o kaya si Haiti o si Denmark."
Natatawa nitong sambit.

Hindi niya napigilang mapangiti nang makuha ang ibig nitong sabihin.

So, he really plans to name the kids after the names of different countries?

Iba talaga ang isang 'to.

"O kaya si Cuba o Kiribati, puwede rin Mozambique." Sinabayan niya ang trip nito na
ikinatawa naman ng binata. He even released her hand.

"I won't let the cruise ship land on those countries." He said after. Siya naman
ang natawa sa pahayag ng binata.

Sakto namang nakarating sila sa condo niya.

They went up silently. Vance's arm is draped around her waist.

Agad siya nitong binitawan nang makapasok sila sa unit niya. Taliwas sa iniisip
niyang susunggaban siya agad nito ng halik.

Vance went to her couch and leaned back with eyes closed.

"Coffee?" she asked. Umiling naman ito ngunit nakapikit pa rin.

"Soda?" she asked again. Umayos naman ito ng upo at tiningnan siya.

"You." He answered with a smile.

"Ako?"
Turo niya sa sarili.

"Yes. Anong gusto mo?" tanong nito. Napatawa naman siya. Akala niya sinabi nitong
siya ang gusto nito.

"Gusto kong maligo. Nanlalagkit na ako." Natatawa niyang saad.

"Then go. I will just be here." He answered.

"Don't you want to join me in the hot tub?" She felt a bit shy that she's the
insinuating something.

"The last time I asked to join, you wanted me to sleep nonstop." He said chuckling.

Napangiti siya. Kahapon lang 'yong last time na 'yon. Ang bilis niyang magbago ng
isip, ngayon parang nae-excite na siya.

"Pa-birthday ko sa 'yo." Sambit niya at hinila ito patayo. Natatawa naman itong
nagpatianod.

"Your room smells fragrant." Puna nito nang makapasok sila. Nginitian niya lang ang
binata at iginiya sa bathroom. She filled the tub with warm water and sprinkled
perfumed liquid soap.

The bathroom was filled with the smell of jasmine, milk and shea butter as it
dissolves in the water. It started to bubble.

She looked at Vance and took the liberty to unbutton his polo.

"Are you sure about this?" tanong ng binata. Tinanggal na nito ng tuluyan pati ang
pang-ibabang saplot.

"Baka mamaya may electric shock 'yang tubig sa bath tub?" Natatawa nitong tanong.

She only smiled at his joke as she undress herself. Agad siyang lumusong sa bath
tub. Sumunod naman ito.

"Dito ka." Saad nito nang makapuwesto sa kabilang dulo ng tub.

She slowly went to his side. Patalikod siyang pumuwesto sa ibabaw nito. Hinawakan
nito ang baywang niya. Her heart's beating erratically

fast anticipating what is likely to happen. She could feel his manhood again.

When she was settled, he let go of her waist. He poured some soap on his hand and
massaged her back gently.

Napapikit siya.

His hand glided smoothly on her body. Kahit na nakababad sila sa tubig nararamdaman
niya ang pag-init ng katawan niya. She can't help but lean back and feel his chest.
Lumipat naman ang kamay nito sa mga braso niya. The soft bubbles from the soap felt
so sensual as he massaged it on her skin.

She could feel his hardness on her back and it's making her feel hotter. Lalo
siyang nag-init nang lumipat ang mga kamay nito sa magkabilang dibdib niya. He
gently massaged them. She could feel his heavy breathing.
Alam niyang nag-iinit na rin ang binata. She can't take it anymore. Humarap siya
rito at hinalikan ito ng mariin. Tinugon naman nito ang halik niya. His hot tongue
lunge on hers. Nakipaglaban ang dila niya sa dila nito.

His expert kissing made her hands explore his firm chest. Pinaglandas niya ang mga
kamay sa matipuno nitong katawan. He has a sexy back but her hands feasted on his
abs. Matagal na niya itong napapanaginipang hinahawakan at ninanamnam. Finally,
it's happening.

Vance hands also roamed around her body as they kissed torridly.

Vance held her tightly on the waist. Then he slowly parted their lips.

"Let's do this properly." Saad nito. Iginiya siya nito patayo. He opened the shower
and let the water run on their bodies. He helped wash away the soap bubbles on her
body. Instinctively, she did the same.

Vance took the towel as he guided

her outside the bathroom. Tinuyo nito ang katawan niya bago pinunas ang sarili.

She waited for him. May pagkakataon siyang pigilan ito pero nanaig ang excitement
niya sa maaaring mangyari.

She wanted to touch that firm abs again.

Lumapit siya rito at yumakap.

"Can't wait, huh?" Vance said smiling.

"You're smile looks like you won the lottery." She teased. Mas lalo itong nangiti.

"Because I really won." He said before kissing her hardly.

She felt running out of breath especially when he bit her lower lip gently. Parang
kakapusin siya ng paghinga sa sarap ng paghalik nito. Hindi niya mapigilang umungol
sa tindi ng sensasyon.

His hand found its way to her bre*st while the other is clasped around her waist
squeezing her tightly to his warm naked body.

Her breathing hitched when his lips left her mouth and landed at the base of her
chin. He gently nipped and kissed her down to her neck. Habang pababa ng pababa ang
halik nito ay mas lalo namang nagdedeliryo ang pakiramdamdam niya. Lumiyad siya
para bigyang laya ang paglandas ng labi nito sa leeg niya.

Vance gripped her waist as he kissed her. Naramdaman na lang niyang binuhat siya
nito at inihiga sa malambot sa kama. The moment her back landed on the bed, he also
started drawing kisses on her bre*st. His hand kneads the other giving her
different strand of sensations. Napapaliyad siya sa bawat dampi ng labi nito sa
dibdib niya.

He teased and nipped her taut n*pple as he massaged the other using his expert
thumb. Ramdam niya ang pag-iinit ng buong katawan niya. Pinaglandas

nito ang dila papunta sa kabilang dibdib niya. Napapaungol siya sa bawat dampi ng
labi nito. Hindi niya mapigilang paglandasin rin ang palad sa katawan nito.
Her toes curled when his hand massaged her abdomen as he licked her bre*st. Hindi
niya alam kung saan ipapaling ang ulo lalo na nang bumaba ang kamay nito at dinama
ang namamasa niyang hiyas.

Her hips felt crazy at the mere touch. Lalo nang bumaba ang labi nito sa kaselanan
niya. Hindi na niya alam kung saan ibabaling ang ulo.

He nipped her wetness, slowly teasing her. Napakagat siya sa labi nang maramdaman
ang pamilyar na sensasyong naranasan niya kanina. She moved her hips as he glided
his tongue on her cl*t. She loved the sensations.

But it was cut when Vance stopped.

He moved up and kissed her again on the lips.

"I want to take you now." He whispered in her ear. He felt his hand spreading her
legs widely. His hard and long manhood is poking her belly.

"Thea, sweetheart." He nudge his nose on hers when she didn't say anything.

"Wh-hy?" Her question came out like a moan. Ramdam na ramdam niya kasi ang malaki
at mahaba nitong sandata na nakadikit sa puson niya hanggang sa may tiyan.

"Utter your command on the chemical guns now or else there is no turning back."
Anas nito sa mga labi niya. He kissed her again gently. Napailing siya.

"Happy birthday." She whispered and held his head as she kissed him hard.

Vance smiled on her lips.

"Wonderful birthday gift," He muttered as he positioned himself.

Thea felt like her body parted into two as Vance tried

to penetrate her wet core. Napaigik siya sa sakit.

"Just trust me okay? I know what I'm doing." Vance whispered in her ear. Napatango
siya at pumikit ng mariin.

Vance kissed her hardly on the lips as he slowly pushed himself deeper. She could
feel how big he is. A tear escape her eye as he fully entered her.

Tumigil ito at hinalikan siya ng mariin. His hard manhood rested inside her
wetness. He kissed her hard but didn't move his manhood. He parted from her lips
and put his hand on her mouth. Nakaalalay ang siko nito para hindi siya madaganan.

"Bite it." He ordered. She bit the palm on the base of his little finger.

Then he slowly withdrew his c*ck from hers. Dahan-dahan din nitong ipinasok
pabalik. It was painful but as she felt the pain, she bites his hand harder. Hindi
niya alam kung nasasaktan din ito dahil patuloy ito sa marahang paglabas-masok.
Masakit pero nababawasan ang kirot sa tuwing kinakagat niya ang kamay nito. He
thrusts deeper slowly until she got used to his length.

Then slowly she stopped biting his hand and let out moans of pleasure. He then
kissed her hard on the lips as he thrusts faster and deeper. She felt her hips
grinding against his length. His breathing became rugged.

Humigpit ang yakap niya sa balikat nito habang papabilis nang papabilis ang pag-
ulos nito.

"Ohh Vance..." ungol niya. Hindi niya alam kung saan niya ibabaling ang ulo sa
tindi ng sensasyong nadarama. Napuno ng mga ungol nila ang buong silid.

Vance grind deeper and harder. Napakagat siya sa labi.

She felt her core clenching as she reaches the peak. Mas lalo namang bumilis ang
pag-indayog nito sa ibabaw niya hanggang sa tuluyan nang sumabog ang sarap ng
sensasyong nadarama niya. Vance didn't stop thrusting until he was able to release
his seeds.

He stayed on top of her for a moment before rolling down to her side. Inayos nito
ang comforter at itinakip sa hubad nilang katawan.

He cuddled her up until they both fell asleep.

=================

22. Last Priority

Thea felt sore but she tried to sit down. Everything that happened last night
dawned to her. Her heart beats fast as she brushed her face.

It really did happen.

There was a little guilt but she can't bring herself to regret.

Ginusto kasi niya. Ayaw niyang pagsisihan na kay Vance niya ibinigay ang puri niya.
He was her first and ultimate crush while growing up.

Mas gusto pa nga niyang isipin na ang nangyari ay isang pangarap na natupad.
Holy hell!

She must have been in love with him. Hindi lang niya namalayan.

Pinakiramdaman kung nasa banyo lang si Vance. Wala na kasi ito sa tabi niya nang
magising siya.

Ang naalala niya magkatabi silang natulog. Nagising pa nga siya ng bandang alas
singko ng umaga na kayakap ito. Sobrang antok lang talaga siya kaya itinuloy niya
ang pagtulog.

Hindi nga niya namalayang sinuotan pala siya ng binata ng pantulog kaya nakapajama
na siyang nagising.

Her forehead creased when there was no sign of another human being around.

Dahan-dahan siyang naglakad palabas ng kuwarto pero wala talaga ang binata.

She sat on the couch. She feels some pains. Pero hindi niya matukoy kung saang
parte ba ng katawan niya nanggagaling ang mga sakit na iyon.

She took her pouch from the center table and checked her phone. There are few
missed calls and messages.

Dalawa sa mga mensahe ay galing kay Vance.

She felt relieved. Siguro dahil sa

sinabi ni Stacy na maaaring iwan siya ni Vance na parang hindi siya kilala sa oras
na may mangyari sa kanila. She inhaled deeply as she opened the message.

Sweetheart, sorry if I had to leave early. Vander keeps calling my phone since this
morning. I will try to escape later.
She smiled and looked at the clock. Mag-aalas dose na pala ng tanghali. Binuksan
niya ulit ang pangalawang mensahe.

I left something for you to eat at the dining table. Initin mo na lang. Ubusin mo
'yong soup. It will help relieve your body pains. Send me a message when you read
this, sweetheart.

She smiled and sent a message before walking towards her kitchen.

May mga nakatakip ngang pagkain sa mesa. Inorder siguro nito sa restaurant. Wala
naman kasing puwedeng lutuin sa kitchen niya dahil hindi siya marunong magluto. She
can only cook rice but with the use of the rice cooker and nothing else. Hindi nga
rin siya marunong magprito ng kahit na ano. Even her boiled eggs were always
undercooked.

Napangiti siya nang makitang iba't-ibang putahe ng ulam ang mga nasa bowls -
chicken, meat, beef and vegetable salad.

Inuna niyang ininit ang soup na mukhang ang binata mismo ang nagprepare. May iba't-
iba kasing herbs sa ibabaw. Restaurants don't usually serve that kind of soup. Alam
niya kasi halos restaurants lahat ang kinakainan niya simula no'ng bumukod siya sa
mga magulang.

The spicy soup is really a miracle. Nawala lahat ng nararamdaman niyang sakit sa
kung saan-saang parte ng katawan niya lalo na sa pagitan ng mga hita niya.

Kaya kinahapunan ay nagpasya siyang dumalaw sa mga magulang.

It was a bit hassle because she needed to hail a cab. Hindi na kasi niya naiuwi ang
kotse mula sa VLF building.

Her nosy mother even asked where her car is. She just brushed the question and
jokingly said that she burned it.

Her sister along with her two kids and husband drop by at dinner. Pinipilit na
naman siya nitong mag-model para sa next na fashion show ng mga damit na gawa nito.
Tumanggi siya at nangako na tutulong na lang sa designs ng stage at venue gaya ng
dati.

Walang nagawa ang mga ito nang tumanggi siya lalo na ang mommy niya. Her dad as
usual never intervened on that matter. Nagpaalam na siya agad pagkatapos ng dinner
bago pa mag-usyoso ang mommy niya tungkol sa lovelife niya.

She felt a little empty when she went back to her unit. Hindi na kasi nagreply si
Vance sa text niya at hindi rin ito tumawag. Baka hindi na ito nakatakas sa mga
kapatid, hinayaan na lang niya.

It was midnight when she decided to give him a ring but the phone only kept
ringing. Natulog na lang siya. Baka nalasing na ito ng tuluyan.
________

She expected Vance to appear at the office the following morning but he didn't.
Buong maghapon siyang natuturete sa ginagawa dahil wala na siyang narinig mula sa
binata.

BUT then she doesn't want to think negatively. Baka may hangover lang ito.

She finished doing the virtual lab process demo. Ipapakita niya ito kay Vance, sa
mga chemists at engineers para ma-forsee

kung ano ang posibleng mangyari sa pagbabago ng laboratory sa isla.

_________

Nagsimula ulit siyang kabahan nang gabi na at nakauwi na sa condo nang wala pa ring
balita galing sa binata.

Nagbago na ba ang isip nito matapos may mangyari sa kanila?

Was Stacy right?

She decided to compose a message for him but erased it later on.
Ang OA kasi. Baka may hangover lang talaga si Vance lalo na't sinabi nitong nag-
iinuman ang mga ito magdamag kapag birthday nila.

She only sent a short Hi! to him.

She smiled at the same time nervous when his name appeared on her phone.

Tumatawag ito.

"Sweetheart, I'm sorry hindi ako nakatakas. Vander's too tight." Bungad nito bago
pa man siya mag-hello. Napangiti siya sa narinig.

"Okay lang. Nalasing kayo?" Natatawa niyang tanong.

"A bit." He answered.

"I won't be at the office tomorrow. I'm with Leandrei and Vander, now. We're going
out of the country. Hindi kasi nakasama 'tong isa kahapon, pambawi niya." Paalam
nito.

"Gano'n ba." Tugon na lamang niya. Ayaw naman niyang pigilan ito. Besides, he's
only informing her. Hindi ito literal na nagpapaalam.

"Swee---" Magsasalita pa sana si Vance nang maputol ang sinasabi nito. She heard
some rustling sound and Vance cursing.

"Hey." Nailayo pa niya ang phone sa tainga sa lakas ng boses ng kung sinong lalaki
sa kabilang linya.

"Asshole give me that." Rinig niyang atungal ni Vance.

"Vance?"

she muttered. Saglit siyang kinabahan pero agad namang may nagsalita sa kabilang
linya.

"Hey, Lady. I'll tell you the truth. Bakla si Vance. Maghanap ka na lang ng totoong
lalaki." Saad nito. Napakunot-noo siya.

She heard more of Vance's curses from afar. Parang naulinigan pa niyang sinabi nito
ang pangalang Leandrei.

"Hello. Who's this?" she asked but the line went dead.

Kunot-noo siyang napatitig sa telepono. It must be one of his triplets.

Pinagtripan lang siguro ng kapatid nito ang binata. She tried calling his phone but
it was already turned off.

______

She anticipated calls from Vance the next day but there was none. Inabot ng tatlong
araw ay hindi pa rin ito tumawag. She was sending messages but there was no reply
whatsoever.

She felt bad.

Nagpaalam nga ito pero hindi naman nagsabi kung nasaan at kung ano na ang
nangyayari rito.

Was Stacy really right?

Is Vance starting to ignore her after what happened?

Wtf?

Inis niyang iginala ang paningin sa loob ng opisina.

Basagin kaya niya lahat ng gamit sa loob para malaman nitong nagdaramdam siya sa
ginagawa nito ngayon sa kanya?

She smiled bitterly at her own thoughts.

She wouldn't do that. Kasalanan din naman niya kung sakali.

Alam naman niya kung gaano kababaero ang binata. There were a lot of signs but she
ignored them all.

She doesn't' want to feel and look stupid for giving herself to him despite that.

Ginusto niya talaga ang nangyari sa kabila ng pagkakakilala niya rito.

That's not stupidity. It's just

doing freely what she wants. Besides, she enjoyed what happened.

Tangina lang 'di ba?

______

Pauwi na siya nang makitang nag-ring ang phone niya. She smiled bitterly when she
saw Vance's name on the screen. After three days saka lang ito tatawag.

Ano tatawag lang ba ito kung kailan nito gusto o kung kailan ito magkaroon ng
libreng pagkakataon?

It's not fair.

Dapat tratuhin pa rin siya nito kagaya ng pagtrato nito noong wala pang nangyari sa
kanila.

Oh well, she must not forget that it might be his intention from the very
beginning. Nagpauto lang siya.

BUT if that's the case, he should stop bothering her. Tutal nakuha na nito ang
gusto.

Her phone keeps ringing. Hinayaan na lamang niya ito at ipinagpatuloy ang pagda-
drive.
Hapung-hapo siyang nahiga sa kama pagdating niya sa unit niya. She tried to calm
herself.

Her phone started ringing again.

Kailangan na ba ulit niyang i-silent mode ang phone para makaiwas sa mga tawag na
ayaw niyang sagutin?

She inhaled deeply when it rang again.

Hindi siya nagsalita nang angatin ang tawag. Gusto niyang maramdaman ni Vance ang
paninibugho niya.

"I called up Arnie. Pauwi ka daw. Were you driving kaya hindi mo nasagot ang mga
tawag?" tanong ni Vance sa kanya.

She's tempted to tell him that she really ignored the call but she decided not to.

"Yes." She said inhaling deeply.

"I see. Are you tired? Daanan sana kita. Kagagaling lang namin sa airport. We are
on our way home." Hayag nito.

"Huwag na. Umuwi ka na muna para makapagpahinga ka. Mukhang marami kayong ginawa sa
pinuntahan niyo." Tugon niya.

Mas lalo kasi siyang nainis dahil kung magsalita ito parang walang anuman ang hindi
nito pagpaparamdam ng tatlong araw.

"I missed you, sweetheart." Vance said inhaling deeply.

She smiled bitterly at what he said.

Why did it sound like he just missed fucking her?

"Kumain ka na?" tanong nito nang hindi siya nagsalita.

"Tapos na." Pagsisinungaling niya.

"Gano'n ba? Sayang. May dinner kasi sa bahay. Daanan sana kita." Sambit nito.

She wasn't able to respond right away.

"Maybe some other time." She murmured. Kung talagang gusto nitong imbitahin siya sa
bahay nila, hindi na sana ito nagtanong pa kung kumain na siya, dapat diretso na
itong nag-imbita.

"Okay." Tugon naman nito.

See? Hindi na talaga nag-insist.

Napangiti na lang siya ng mapait.

She didn't even respond with a good night before she ended the call.

She must start making him feel that he's not supposed to treat her like a spare
tire or a second priority. Kung talagang girlfriend ang tingin nito sa kanya dapat
tratuhin siya nito ng tama.

Hindi puwedeng tatawag na lang ito kung kailan nito gusto.

=================

23. Girlfriend

Inis na bumangon si Thea nang hindi tumigil ang pagtunog ng doorbell. Madaling-araw
na siyang nakatulog tapos may manggigising pa ng umagang-umaga. She went to the
bathroom and fixed herself.

Kahit naghilamos na siya at lahat ay parang antok na antok pa rin siya.

She walked half-awake towards the door. Buti na lang kabisado niya ang buong unit
kaya kahit nakapikit ay alam niya kung saan maglalakad.

A familiar man's scent filled her nostrils the moment she opened the door.

Napamulagat pa siya. Bumungad sa kanya ang nakangiting mukha ni Vance.

"Good morning, sweetheart." He greeted. Nagising pa ang buong diwa niya sa masigla
nitong pagbati. Vance is holding a bouquet of her favorite flowers and a brown
paper bag.

"I brought something for breakfast." Nakangiti nitong itinaas ang paperbag. She
opened the door widely to let him come in. Dumiretso ito sa dining area. Sumunod na
lang siya.

Inilagay nito sa mesa ang mga hawak saka humarap sa kanya.

She wasn't able to react right away when he immediately crossed their distance and
kissed her quickly on the lips.

Mahigpit itong yumakap.

"I miss my girlfriend." He mumbled in her ear. She closed her eyes.

God. She must admit she also missed him.

Gumanti siya ng yakap. Hahalik na naman sana ulit ang lalaki nang pigilan niya ito.

Vance looked at her with a creased forehead. Bumitaw siya sa yakap nito.

"You haven't called me up for three days." Saad niya at tiningnan ito ng matalim.

Unti-unti namang napalitan ang kunot-noo nito

ng isang ngiti.

"Galit si sweetheart." Natatawa nitong tudyo.

Inis siyang tumalikod at kumuha ng cup. She turned on the coffee maker. Naramdaman
naman niya ang pagsunod ng binata.

Vance hugged her from behind. His arms encircled her waist and rested his head on
her shoulder.
She inhaled deeply to calm herself.

"Huwag ka sa 'kin magalit, girlfriend." He said sniffing her neck. Bahagya siyang
nakiliti pero hindi niya ipinahalata.

"So, I should be mad with your neighbors?" Sarkastiko niyang tanong. Sinubukan
niyang kumalas sa yakap nito pero mas lalo lang humigpit.

"Those two assholes hid my phone. Sila ang may kasalanan." Depensa nito.

Huminga siya ng malalim. Ramdam niya kasi ang init ng hininga nito na dumampi sa
leeg niya.

"Huwag ka nang magalit." Nanlalambing nitong bulong. He gave her butterfly kisses
on the shoulder.

Why does the beating of her heart can't be stilled?

"You're a genius you could have done something if you really wanted to reach out to
me." Iginalaw niya ang balikat para matigil ito sa ginagawang paghalik.

Vance made her turn around. He stared at her with an amused face.

"I'll make it up to you," He whispered in her ear.

"Ganyan kapag wala nang maisip na rason eh." Ingos niya rito. Vance chuckled.

"You're very pretty in the morning." He said pinching her nose. He kissed her
lightly on the lips.

"Hindi mo ako madadaan sa pambobola mo." Kumawala siya sa pagkakahawak nito at

naupo sa dining chair. Hindi siya sigurado kung pinamulahan siya

sa sinabi at ginawa nito.

Natatawa naman itong sumunod.

"Hindi kita binobola." Sambit nito.

"Baka naman nambabae lang kayo 'don?"

"Wala akong ibang babae." Natatawa nitong sambit. Umupo ito sa katabing upuan
paharap sa kanya.

"Why are you laughing?" Nakataas-kilay niyang tanong rito.

"Because you look cute when you're acting like a jealous girlfriend." Kumindat ito
ang ngumiti ng matamis.

She momentarily closed her eyes. Nauuto na naman siya ni Vance.

"You're actually a combination of pretty, cute, sassy and beautiful." He stated

staring closely at her face.

Pambihira.

Nauto na naman siya ng tuluyan.

"Sassy? Hindi sexy?" baling niya sa binata. Natatawa naman itong tumayo at tinungo
ang dishrack.

"Uhm...So-so!" sulyap nito habang kumukuha ng pinggan.

"So-so? You'll never see my body again." Irap niya sa binata.

"I was just kidding." Natatawa nitong inilapag ang kubyertos sa mesa. He cupped her
face and looked straight at her eyes.

"You are actually the sexiest and most charming woman alive." Sambit nito. Humalik
ito ng mabilis sa labi niya bago natatawang bumitaw.

"Gusto mo pagawan pa kita ng magazine? Ikaw ang front cover at centerfold."

Nakakaloko nitong saad habang inilalabas ang laman ng paper bag.

She pursed her lips.

"Tapos bibilhin ko rin lahat ng copies para ako lang ang makakakita." He added
chuckling.

Kapag talaga naumpisahan nitong magsalita hindi ito natitigil. Baka pagkatapos nito

tatahimik na naman.

"Talkative. Dami mong alam. Tama yata 'yong sinabi ng kapatid mo. Bakla ka." Ingos
niya.

Tumigil naman ito sa ginagawa, tumitig sa kanya at ngumiti ng nakakaloko.

"Gusto mo naman yatang makakita ng XL." He said winking. Pinamulahan pa siya.

"Manyak ka talaga!" Hinampas niya ang braso nito. Natatawa naman nitong
ipinagpatuloy ang pagbubukas ng mga pagkaing nakalagay sa plastic containers.

"Kinikilig ka eh." Tudyo nito.

"Hindi ah."

"Date tayo mamaya." Kindat ulit nito.

She didn't know why she blushed. Ang guwapo kasi ng pagkindat nito. Sumikdo pa ang
puso niya.

"Kinilig." Vance muttered. Hahawakan sana nito ang baba niya pero tinabig niya.

"Date tayo dito sa loob ng unit mo." Natatawa nitong saad.

Inirapan niya ang binata pero mas lalo lang itong natawa.

They ate breakfast silently after. She was right. Tumahimik na naman ang binata.
May quota talaga ang pagsasalita nito. Napapailing na lang siyang nagpatuloy sa
pagkain.

Niyaya siya nitong lumabas agad pagkatapos ng breakfast. Ayaw niya dahil hindi pa
siya naliligo pero pinilit siya ng binata.

"Mag-jeans ka na lang muna at shirt. Mukha ka namang mabango kahit hindi pa

naligo." Natatawa nitong saad habang sinusundan siya papasok ng kuwarto. Inirapan
niya ito.
Lumapit naman ito at niyakap siya. He even sniffed her neck.

"On a second thought, kailangan mo na talagang maligo." Natatawa nitong sambit

matapos siyang amoyin.

Agad naman niya itong naitulak.

Vance laughed out

loud at what she did.

"I was just kidding. Mabango ka pa rin." Saad nitong tatawa-tawa. He went to her
bed and laid comfortably.

"Go change. Mamaya ka na maligo pagbalik natin." Saad nito.

Pumasok na lang siya ng banyo at mabilisang naghalf-bath. She wore shorts and
fitted long sleeves na inililis niya hanggang siko.

Vance wanted her to change the shorts pero tumanggi siya kaya wala din itong
nagawa. He's only wearing jeans and semi-fit v-neck shirt.

Akala niya kung saan sila pupunta sa supermarket lang pala. Vance didn't let go of
her waist as they walked along the alleys of the supermarket. May mga napapasulyap
pa sa kanila.

Kapag lalaki ang tumitingin bahagya nitong hinihigpitan ang pagkakahapit sa baywang
niya. Kaya kapag may mga babae namang tumitingin sinasadya niyang dumikit sa
binata.

Vance smiles whenever she moves closer. Feel na feel ng hayop.

They went to the meat and vegetable section. She let him shop. Wala naman kasi
siyang alam sa pagluluto. Mukhang tototohanin nito ang sinabing sa loob sila ng
condo magde-date.

She's not just sure if he knows how to cook. Sana marunong ito. Major turn on
talaga ang lalaking marunong magluto lalo na kung katulad nitong playboy at mukhang
pambababae lang ang alam.

Bukod do'n, mas okay kapag marunong ito dahil hindi talaga siya marunong magluto.
Para balanse. Hehe!

"Hey!" She heard Vance said aloud. Napatingala siya rito. Nasa condiments section
na sila.
He was looking grimly at the group of dicers on one side. Nag-aayos

ang mga ito ng items.

"I know that my girlfriend looks like a Victoria's Secret model but you are not
allowed to stare at her. Not even a second." Hayag nito.

She wanted to laugh but she stopped herself. Pikon na pikon na naman kasi ang mukha
ng binatang nakahapit sa baywang niya.

"Sinabi ko na kasi sa'yong huwag kang mag-shorts." Saad nito at hinila na siya
kasama ng push cart palayo sa mga lalaking hindi nakapagsalita.

"Baka naman kasi napasulyap lang sila. OA ka naman masyado." Natatawa niyang
sambit.

"No. They are staring at you because you are beautiful and sexy." Mabilis itong
humalik sa tainga niya. It sent goosebumps throughout her body.

"Sa susunod ikukulong na kita para walang ibang titingin sa 'yo." Bulong nito bago
siya hinila papuntang counter.

Napapailing na lang siyang nagpatianod.

Pansin niya ang pagkakapagkit ng tingin ng cashier kay Vance nang inilalagay na
nito ang mga pinamili nila sa counter.

She smiled inwardly.

Who wouldn't get mesmerized at Vance's face?

Hindi naman pansin ng binata ang titig ng babae dahil patuloy lang ito sa
paglalagay sa counter ng mga items.

"Sabi ko na eh!" the cashier exclaimed at the bagger when Vance handed her his
debit card.

"Siya talaga 'yong nasa magazine." Nasisiyahan nitong sambit. Tumingin pa ang ilang
tao sa kanila. Itinuro nito ang isang business magazine na nasa magazine rack.

Hindi makapaniwalang napatingin siya sa cover. It's really Vance. May pangalan pa
ito sa baba. Hindi niya alam na nagpose pala ito

para sa isang business magazine.

"Wow, model." Natatawa niyang bulong sa nobyo. Parang nahihiya naman itong umiling.

"That's a business magazine. It's meant to inform how to be good in business

matters." He explained.

Nakita niyang kumuha ang cashier ng isa.

"Sir, pa-autograph naman." Nakangiti nitong request.

"I'm not a celebrity. Please process our payment so we could leave." Strikto namang
saad ng binata.

"Ang sungit mo naman. Para autograph lang." Natatawa niyang komento. Vance looked
at her in disbelief. Natawa lang siya.
"Miss pahingi din ako ng isa. Pakidagdag sa babayaran niya." Natatawa niyang saad.

"Are you seriously buying that?" Vance asked.

"Ang guwapo mo kaya dito." Natatawa niyang itinabi ang magazine sa mukha ng binata
na mahina naman nitong pinalis pababa. Parang napipikon na naman ito.

She removed the plastic and asked the girl if she had marker pen. Agad naman itong
nag-abot ng marker.

"Pa-autograph naman kami." Natatawa niyang request sa binata. Vance looked at her
seriously. Napatawa siya. Some people are staring at them. He looks pissed off.
Pero kinuha naman nito ang marker.

"Stop staring at my girlfriend or all of you will be sorry." Inisa-isa nitong

tiningnan ang mga lalaking nakatingin sa kanila.

Napatawa siya kasama ng mga babaeng nandoon.

Nakahihiya talaga ang lalaking 'to minsan.

He signed the magazine and gave it to the cashier.

"Process our payment right away or I will ask the CEO of SuperMalls to fire you."
Saad nito.

Nangingiti

na lang niyang tiningnan ang babae na mabilis na nagswipe sa machine ng card.

They were both silent when they went to his car.

"My sister is asking me to model for her dresses. Puwede rin ba akong mag-model
tutal pang-magazine cover naman pala ang boyfriend ko?" Tudyo niya kay Vance nang
magsimula na itong mag-drive. She still can't believe that he posed for a magazine.

"Hindi puwede." Inis naman itong sumulyap sa kanya.

"Bakit ikaw puwede? Ako hindi?" Natatawa niyang tanong.

"That was different. It's a business magazine. It doesn't show any skin." Seryoso
nitong sambit.

"Hindi rin ako magpapakita ng balat."

Nagulat siya nang bigla nitong itabi ang sasakyan sa daan at tumitig sa kanya ng
matiim. She wants to laugh out loud but she controlled herself. Kapag talaga
nauunahan ito ang daling mapikon.

"No. I do not want anyone ogling at your beautiful face. End of conversation." He
said seriously before starting the car's engine.

Napatawa siya pero tahimik na lang ang binata na nag-drive. Naabot na naman yata
nito ang quota sa pagsasalita.
______

"I'm going to recall all the copies of that magazine so wouldn't think it's
unfair." Vance muttered when they went up to her unit.

Seriously?

'Yon ba ang tumatakbo sa isip nito nang matahimik kanina?

Ibang klase. Sinundan niya ito hanggang sa mailapag nito ang mga pinamili sa mesa.

"Ang seryoso mo. Joke lang 'yon. Okay lang sa 'kin. You don't need to do that."
Natatawa niyang sambit habang tinutulungan itong buksan ang mga pinamili.

Vance faced her and cupped her face.

"Okay lang sa 'yo na tinititigan ng ibang babae ang mukha ko?" Seryoso nitong
tanong.

"Didn't you tell me to share my blessings?" natatawa niyang tugon.

Pikong napatitig ang binata pero tinawanan lang niya.

Masarap talagang asarin ang taong pikon.

Nawala pa ang lahat ng panibugho niya sa nagdaang tatlong araw.

[A/N: Nu rabii manen ubbing. Bareng malpas ko diay kasaruno na. Pa-translate daw.
Hehe!]
=================

24. Small Things, Huge Bonds.

The more you'll get attached, the more you'll get hurt, cliché but proven true.
-jazlykdat

Thea watched as Vance washed all the vegetables and fruits that they bought.

"Hindi ka talaga tutulong?" baling nito nang makitang nakatunghay lang siya sa
ginagawa nito. He took a rectangular plastic container from the cupboard.

Parang alam na alam nito kung saan kukuha ng mga gamit. Siya nga hindi alam na may
containers pala doon. It was her mom who filled the entire kitchen with those
utensils. May silbi din pala ang mga 'yon.

"Hindi ako marunong magluto." Tugon niya rito. Vance chuckled.

"Ano? Iiwanan ka ng mapapangasawa mo kung hindi ka marunong sa kusina." Natatawa

nitong sambit.

Pinamulahan siya sa biro nito. She felt a little insulted but she tried to masked
it with a smirk.

"Mayaman siya. He can afford to hire cooks." Saad niya rito. Vance's laughter
echoed around.

Bahagya siyang nainis.

"Hindi na lang pala ako mag-aasawa. Magmamadre na lang ako." Bawi niya sa naunang
pahayag.

Mas lalong napatawa ang binata. Inirapan naman niya ito.

Tumitig ito sa kanya nang makahuma mula sa pagtawa. Namula pa ang tainga at leeg
nito sa katatawa.

"Papayag ba ako?" Nakangisi nitong kindat. She didn't know why her heart fluttered.
Mukha namang sanay lang itong nambobola ng babae.

BUT a part of her believes him.

NO. She actually believed what he said.

"You don't get to decide on that." Saad niya

para pagtakpan ang pagsikdo ng puso niya.

"You think so?" Vance laughed again. Inilagay nito ang hiniwang lettuce sa
container. He started chopping the cucumber thinly.

Marunong talaga ito.

She only watched him. Inilagay nito ang ginayat na pipino sa ibabaw lettuce.

He went to the stove and started frying burger patties. Bumalik ulit ito sa table
at hiniwa naman ang apples.

"Will you grate the cheese, sweetheart?" Request nito.

"Wala yatang cheese grater dito." Tugon naman niya. Vance stopped chopping and
smiled at her.

"It's on the drawer below the dishrack." Napapailing nitong sambit. Tumayo naman
siya at tiningnan kung nandoon ang nasabing gamit. It's really there.

"Bakit alam mo kung saan ang mga gamit dito?" Natatawa niyang tanong. Bumalik siya
sa mesa. Hinanap niya ang cheese sa mga pinamili nila.

"I rummaged it while you were sleeping last time." Nakangisi nitong tugon.

Napatango siya. She thought so.

"Alam ko na rin kung saan ako pupuwesto para hindi tamaan ng mga chemical guns mo."
He added laughing.

Napailing na lang siya.

Sobrang talino lang talaga nito. Hindi na siya nagtaka kung mabilis nitong na-
memorize kung saan-saan ang mga gamit sa unit niya.

"Mangangamoy burger na ako nito. Wala ka pa namang apron dito." Saad nito nang
bumalik sa pinipritong patties.

He went back to the table.

"Tanggalin mo nalang kasi 'yang shirt mo." Tudyo niya sa binata. Lumapit naman ito
at natatawa siyang hinapit sa baywang mula sa likuran.

She likes it when he hugs her

from behind.

"Baka mawalan ka ng ganang kumain. Mas masarap ako kaysa sa ulam." Natatawa nitong
sambit.

"Yabang!" She muttered laughing. She started unpacking the cheese.

"Hugasan mo muna 'yang cheese grater. Wala ka talagang alam sa kusina." Natatawa
nitong kinagat ng marahan ang tainga niya. Pinamulahan pa siya.

"Wala kasi akong alam sa mga ganito." Natatawa niyang tugon. Kumalas siya sa yakap
nito at pumunta ng sink.
"Hindi puwede sa akin ang tatamad-tamad na asawa." Vance laughed. She didn't know
why that remark made her stomach churn in delight.

Eh Keshe si Vansh. (Charot!)

"Saan ko 'to ilalagay?" Tanong niya nang umpisahan nang i-grate ang cheese.

"Sprinkle it all over the salad." Tugon naman nito.

She was grating the cheese all over the container with lettuce and cucumber when
Vance grabbed it from her. Naiahon na nito ang niluluto sa kalan.

"Ang bagal mo. Baka gabihin na tayo sa pupuntahan natin mamaya." Tugon nito.

Napatingin siya sa binata. She thought they'd stay indoors. Lalabas pala sila.

"Bakit hindi na lang tayo mag-take out ng babaunin natin?" tanong niya rito.

Vance looked at her and smiled.

"I told you babawi ako. So I'm making an effort." He stated. Napangiti na lang
siya.

She sat on the chair and watched as he put apple cider vinegar on the bowl. He put
the seedless grapes and whipped some cream. May mga inilagay pa ito na herbs bago
hinarap ang burger sandwiches. He took out the roast beef from the oven. Nagtimpla
ito ng sauce na pinanood lang niya.

She can't describe what he's doing. Kumain lang kasi ang alam niya.

He put each food in the containers bago nito inilagay sa isang cloth bag na kinuha
rin nito sa cupboard niya.

He feels at home inside her kitchen. He also looked adorable doing those things.

"Dapat pala naligo ka na habang nagpri-prepare ako. Sayang ang oras." Saad nito
nang mai-pack na lahat ng ginawang pagkain.

Naisip niya rin kanina ang bagay na 'yon pero mas ginusto niyang panuorin ang
binata.

"Hindi ba amoy ulam ka na?" Kindat niya rito. Vance looked at her with a blank
expression.

"Why don't you get your spare clothes at your car and we'll shower together?"
Suhestiyon niya rito. Tiningnan siya ni Vance ng matiim na parang sinusukat kung
seryoso siya. When he's done scrutinizing her face, he smiled.

"I won't turn that invitation down." He said before moving out of the unit fastly.
She was seated on the edge of her bed when Vance came back. Ipinatong nito ang
damit sa kama. He really has spare clothes in his car. Iba talaga kapag babaero ang
lalaki laging handa.

"Bilisan lang nating maligo kasi mas magandang makarating doon ng mas maaga. Cloudy
raw doon baka umulan kapag hapon na tayo makarating." Hayag nito. He started
undressing himself.

She didn't ask where they are going. Hahayaan na lamang niya itong dalhin siya sa
kung saan.

She undressed herself. She didn't feel any hesitance stripping infront of him.

She thought it would be a wholesome bath with Vance since he told her that they
need

to hurry up but she was wrong.

Agad kasi siya nitong binuhat. Ipinalibot nito ang mga hita niya sa baywang nito.
His erect manhood throbs hard in between their bodies. He immediately kissed her as
he stepped towards the bathroom. Ipinalibot niya ang mga braso sa balikat nito at
tinugon ang bawat paghalik nito. It feels great kissing him over and over again.

Tuluyan na siya nitong ipinasok sa loob ng bathroom nang hindi natitinag mula sa
paghalik.

The cold tile of the wall didn't do any justice when Vance started kissing her
bre*st as he pinned her against it. He kissed her body as the water dropped from
the shower. Marahan siya nitong iniindayog sa bawat pagdampi ng labi nito sa
katawan niya. It made her moan loud. She had to do it. His tongue has this power to
make her breathing hitched.

Mas lalo siyang napahalinghing nang maramdaman ang unti-unti nitong pagpasok sa
basa niyang pagkababae. She wrapped her legs around his waist tightly. Unti-unti
naman itong umulos habang marahas na humahalik sa dibdib niya. He kissed them
harshly as he pushed himself harder on her core. Her breathing became rugged. Halos
kapusin siya ng paghinga sa sarap ng bawat pag-indayog nito sa loob niya. His
strong hands supported her hips as he grinds skillfully making her moan louder.

"Ohh, my Theaa.." Vance moaned as he thrusts deeper. She smiled with eyes shut in
delicious sensations when she heard him utter her name.

"Ahhh..." She can't help but moan louder when his thrusting became too fast to
comprehend. She didn't need to move her hips because he's pushing it against

the wall deliciously.

Sa sobrang tindi ng sensasyong nadarama niya hindi niya namalayan ang mabilis na
pagkarating niya sa rurok ng kaligayahan. Then it was followed by Vance's explosion
after few deep thrusts.
_____

They were both silent as Vance drove along SLEX. She saw that they are heading
towards Laguna. Hindi na lang siya nagtanong.

Kumunot ang noo niya nang makitang wala nang kabahayan sa pinasukan nilang kalsada.

Sinulyapan niya ang binata. Ngumiti lang naman ito sa kanya at nagpatuloy sa pagda-
drive.

"You will love the place. I swear." Saad nito matapos ang ilang saglit. Napatango
na lang siya.

Natanaw niya ang malaking gate sa unahan. May malaki itong arko na may nakalagay na
Villa Lianna. Napapalibutan ito ng malalaking pader kaya hindi kita ang loob nito.

"It's my mom's villa. Dad's gift on their 20th wedding anniversary." Saad nito.

Napangiti siya. Ang sweet naman ng daddy niya. Nakita na niya ang mga magulang nito
ng dalawang beses, high school at college graduation, kaya lang medyo malayo ang
mga ito.

Though Vance is her ultimate crush, she never stalked him kaya limited lang din ang
alam niya tungkol sa binata.

She held her breath when the car went inside. It's not a Villa House for goodness'
sake. Candle trees lined up towards the big Castle. Kamukhang-kamukha nito ang
sikat na Malahide Castle sa Ireland. But her eyes feasted on the bed of flowering
gerberas and daisies at the foot of the Candle trees. Sobrang ganda ang
pamumukadkad ng mga ito. After the bed of plants is a wide

green grassland na sa magkabilang dulo ay parang forest park.

It could even pass as a national park.

"This is paradise!" She exclaimed when they went out of the car. Nasa harap sila
mismo ng castle. The air is so fresh. Maaliwalas din ang paligid at hindi masyadong
mainit dahil makulimlim ang panahon.

Napatingin siya sa binata. Nakatitig naman ito sa kanya nang may malapad na ngiti.

"We invaded your mom's property." Natatawa niyang saad rito.

Vance smiled and draped his arm around her shoulder.

"Don't worry hindi yon magagalit kapag naging daughter-in-law ka na niya." Natatawa
nitong saad. He even kissed the top of her head.

Her heart beats erratically fast.

Hindi niya napigilang mapayakap sa binata.

Tinulungan niya itong magbuhat sa mga dala nila papunta sa gitna ng damuhan.
Inilatag nito ang dalang mat. They placed the containers on the mat before sitting
beside each other. Mabuti na lang mataas ang SPF ng lotion at foundation niya.
Kahit kasi makulimlim alam niyang malakas pa rin ang UV rays.

Iyon pa talaga ang inaalala niya?

Sa guwapo kasi ng lalaking katabi kailangan niyang maging maganda lagi.

She looked at Vance when she felt his hand around her chest. Ngumiti ito.

"Sa Maldives kami nagbakasyon ng tatlong araw." He said smiling.

"I bought this for you. Pasalubong." Saad nito.

Naramdaman niya ang pagdantay ng malamig na pendant ng kuwintas na isinuot nito sa

leeg niya.

She looked at it. Ginto ang necklace pero ang pendant nito ay ipinasadya sa gitna.
It's an authentic red seashell about the size of his thumb. May tatlong bato ito sa
gitna.

"Hindi naman opal ang birthstone ko. It's blue topaz." She mumbled staring at the
stones.

"I know. That's my birthstone. I want it near your heart so it would remind you
that you are mine." He said with sincerity.

Her breathing hitched.

Tiningnan niya lang ang binata at hindi na nagsalita pa.

She lost for words.

***

Dear Vance,
Huwag masyadong magpatihulog. Mas matindi manakit ang mga babae kaysa sa lalaki.

Beware.

Just a friendly advice, douche.

I hope you won't leave it,

Jazlykdat

=================

25. Approval

There are only two approvals that you need in life - yours and God.

Thea and Vance were okay after that date. They became inseparable.

At night, Vance would stay a bit longer in her unit. There are times when they make
love but there are times when they feel like taking it slow. Hindi rin naman
maganda kung gabi-gabi na lang. Vance is not forcing her. He just does it when
she's okay with it.

Lagi rin silang lumalabas para mag-dinner date. They also go to bars, sometimes
with Mac and Stacy but most of the time just the two of them.

BUT there was one downside of it. Halos lahat kasi ng pinupuntahan nilang lugar may
mga babaeng lumalapit sa binata. Some of them openly tell that they want him again
on their beds.

There are times when she gets pissed off. Nasasabihan talaga niya ang mga babae ng
hindi maganda. Vance is not entertaining any of the girls that come near him. In
fact, his eyes were always glued on hers but it still pisses her off when they
approach Vance. With Vance, she felt like she needs to be a tigress ready to defend
her territory.

Whenever she's pissed, Vance would always tell her that he's not dating anyone
except her to appease her anger. Madalas nauuto naman siya. Well, wala din naman
itong panahong mambabae dahil gabing-gabi na ito umuuwi. Idagdag pa na magkasama
naman sila sa opisina.
There's only one thing that gives her doubt about their relationship. He never
tells her that he loves her. Iniisip na lang niya madalas na masyado pang maaga
para lumalim ng gano'n ang nararamdaman nito. She'd

rather not want to hear it from him if it's not sincere.

_____

She thought he'd say the words during their one-week stay at the island but it
never came out. Nagpunta kasi sila doon para sa upgrades ng laboratory.

He was extra sweet that time. Pansin nga ng lahat kaya hindi sila makalapit man
lang sa kanya. She almost thought he'd propose but it never happened.

Kaya pagbalik nila ng Manila ay naiinis siya.

Iniisip niya kung sakaling mabuntis siya, pakakasalan kaya siya ni Vance?

That thought made her uneasy for days. Buti na lang dinatnan din siya sa wakas kaya
nabawasan ang pangamba niya.

______

There was one time when they had an argument after going home from the restaurant.

May lumapit kasing babae sa kanila. Thinking that it was another bitch, she said
something derogatory. Nahihiya pang umalis ang babae.

Vance didn't react that time. Tahimik lang naman talaga ito lagi sa tuwing may
pinagsasabihan siyang babaeng lumalapit rito kahit maliwanag pa sa sikat ng araw na
nandoon siya.

Saka lang ito nagsalita nang nasa kotse na sila.

"You can't go and fight every girl that talks to me." He said. Nagpanting ang
tainga niya sa narinig.

"Anong gusto mong gawin ko? Let them flirt with you in front of me?" Inis niyang
baling rito.

"Hindi gano'n. Ang sinasabi ko lang tame your words a bit."

"So, I'll just let some bitch intervene with our date?" Sarkastiko niyang tanong sa
binata. Nailing naman ito.

He inhaled deeply before speaking.

"She's

not a bitch. She's my cousin from Ilocos. Hindi mo man lang pinagsalita.
Nakahihiya." Saad nito.

Nakaramdam siya ng kaunting guilt pero hindi niya nagustuhan ang huling salita ng
binata.

"So ikinahihiya mo ako?" She asked with a bitter smile.

"It's not that."

"Then what?" taas-kilay niyang tanong rito.

Vance stared at her for a moment. She remained silent and waited for his
explanation.

"Leandrei's getting married next month."

Her forehead creased.

"So what's the point?"

Off-tangent yata masyado ang naging sagot nito.

Vance inhaled deeply.

"His bride is so tamed. Mom adores her so much. Baka kasi sabihin ng pinsan ko kay
Mommy yong ginawa mo kanina, she'll be turned off."

So that's it?

She averted her gaze and looked at the road.

Nainis siya sa pagkukumpara nito sa kanya sa mapapangasawa ng kapatid nito. Pero

mas nainis siyang isipin na kailangan pa pala niyang i-please ang magulang nito
para pumasa siya sa buhay nito.

"I won't be marrying your mom." She murmured. Tiningnan niya ito ng matiim. She
pursed her lips.

Vance looked at her in disbelief.

"I know. I just want her to love you like how she loves my brother's future wife."
Saad nito.

It would have been okay. That would've appeased her anger. Puputulin na sana niya
ang argument nila. Kaya lang nagsalita pa ulit ito.

That hit something. "Pero hindi ka pa man niya nakikilala may malalaman na siyang
hindi maganda tungkol sa 'yo."

Gusto niyang sabihin na hindi naman

ang ina nito ang dapat tumanggap at magmahal sa kanya kung hindi ito.

BUT did he ever tell her that he loves her?

No.

Hindi pa naman nito sinasabing mahal siya nito. Baka bago siya nito tuluyang
mahalin kailangan pang matanggap siya ng pamilya nito.

"Do I have to gain your whole clan's approval for you to love me?" Her heartbeats
raced as she said it. Pinigilan niya ang luhang gustong kumawala sa mga mata niya.

Vance didn't answer. Tumitig lang ito sa kanya.

"Because if that's the case, we'd rather stop this. I don't want to kiss anybody
else's ass for them to accept me." She said trying hard not to break in tears.

Vance's forehead creased.

"You should cool down. Iba na ang takbo ng isip mo. Hindi na tayo
nagkakaintindihan." Saad nito bago inandar ang sasakyan.

Hindi na ito nagsalita pa. Just like how he always does after talking too much.

Tatahimik ito na hindi mahulaan kung ano bang tumatakbo sa isip nito.

BUT the silence gave her time to reflect on what she did and said.

She may be wrong for not knowing the girl first but no one should ever tell her to
please anyone or to change herself for anybody else.

She always yearned to be treated well because that is what she deserves.

Kaya kung kailangan niyang pagsabihan ang mga babaeng lumalapit kay Vance ng masama
para malaman ng mga itong tinatapakan na nila ang pagkatao niya ginagawa talaga
niya.

Talaga kasing nainis siya kanina na baka isa na namang asungot ang lumapit at
nakipagbiruan sa nobyo niya.

Hindi naman kasi ito ipinakilala agad

ni Vance. May kasalanan din ito. Kung pinatigil siya agad at sinabing pinsan nito
ang babae hindi na sana niya nadagdagan ang masamang nasabi.

Hindi niya tiningnan ang binata habang nasa biyahe sila. She's too mad to look at
him.

Inihatid siya nito sa unit niya. There were no goodnight kisses. Umalis ito agad
nang walang salita. Hindi niya alam kung galit din ito sa kanya.
________

There was no Vance the following morning. Nasanay siyang nandito ito sa unit niya
tuwing weekend pero hindi ito nagpunta. Tuluyan na yata itong nagalit sa kanya.
Pero pareho lang sila dahil hindi pa rin humuhupa ang pagkainis niya sa
pagkukumpara nito sa kanya sa mapapangasawa ng kapatid nito.

Good thing Candice appeared at her doorstep. Sinusundo siya nito dahil nag-invite
si Marjorie sa bahay nito. Wala na kasi silang panahon lumabas kaya napagpasyahan
daw nilang sa bahay na lang nito pupunta para magkumustahan. Hindi kasi nito
maiwan-iwan ang dalawang taong-gulang na anak.

She immediately preps up. Mabuti na iyon para makalimutan niya kahit papaano ang
naging pagtatalo nila ni Vance.

Rose was already there when they arrived. She played with Marjorie's daughter while
the three prepared foods. Naintindihan naman ng mga ito dahil alam nilang wala
siyang alam sa kusina.

Leah and Hannah came in later. Shien came in last.

She thought it was a usual catching up moment. Talaga palang sinadya ng mga itong
i-corner siya.

"I saw you with Vance Luanne in a restaurant." Hannah started when they were all
seated in the living room.

Great.

Akala niya makakalimutan niya panandalian ang binata. Ito pala ang magiging paksa
nila.

"Magkuwento ka!" Pinandilatan siya nina Rose at Marjorie. Iyong dalawa ang pinaka-
close sa kaniya sa kanilang lima.

She inhaled deeply before admitting that she and Vance are already going out.

"Di ba sabi mo babaero 'yon bakit mo pinatulan?" Candice asked.

"Yeah. But so far okay naman siya. Wala naman akong nakikita na ibang babae." Tugon
niya rito. It was the truth. Mararamdaman naman niya kung may babae ito.

"Of course wala. Alangan na ibandera niya sa mukha mo, bes?" Candice exclaimed.
Hindi siya nagsalita. She has a point.

"Did he say he loves you already?" Rose inquired.

Huminga siya ng malalim. She felt the urge to say yes but she can't lie to her
friends. Napailing siya. Parang nalungkot pa ang mga ito. Rose only smirked.
Marjorie's not speaking.
"You know playboys don't easily say those magic words. Saka ilang weeks pa lang
naman sila ni Thea." Shien stated matter-of-factly. Nakahinga siya ng maluwag sa
pagtatanggol nito. BUT the others are not convinced.

Akala niya ay boto ang mga kaibigan niya kay Vance dahil tinutudyo-tudyo pa siya
pero habang tinitingnan niya ang mga reaction ng mga ito bigla siyang nahiya na ang
bilis niya lang bumigay sa binata.

Hindi man lang niya pinahirapan. Ayaw niyang ikuwento sa mga ito na may nangyari na
sa kanila ni Vance ng maraming beses. For sure, they'd say she's stupid for giving
in too early.

"Give Vance the benefit of the doubt." Marjorie commented. Sa

kanilang lahat, ito ang pinaka-mature mag-isip kaya kapag nagsalita ito lahat sila
ay tikom ang bibig.

Nagkibit-balikat ang iba at kumain na lang sa potato crumble na ginawa kanina nina
Candice at Marjorie. There was silence for a moment.

"Kumusta na nga pala si Ashley?"

Napatingin siya kay Marjorie nang magsalita ito. Ashley is a chemist in New Jersey.
Ito ang pinaka-close niyang tao noong nandoon siya kaya kilala na rin ng mga
kaibigan niya.

Hinintay nito ang sagot niya.

"She's busy on her newly established pharma lab in New Jersey." She answered as she
took a piece of the potato.

"Ang galing naman." Hannah commented.

"Nag-uusap pa kayo?" Marjorie asked again.

"Yeah. Phone calls and skype sometimes." She answered.

Napatango naman ito.

They continued chatting and eating after the inquiry about her lovelife. Hindi na
nila nagpa-usapan pa ang tungkol kay Vance. Doon na din sila nag-lunch. Marjorie's
husband is out of town. Kaya kanilang-kanila ang bahay.

Maghapon silang nag-bonding na magkakaibigan bago nagpasyang maghiwa-hiwalay.

Marjorie wants her to stay for dinner pero tumanggi siya. Alam niya kasing
kakausapin lang siya nito ng masinsinan tungkol sa naging desisyon niya kay Vance.
When she was out driving back to her condo saka na naman bumalik ang naging pahayag
ni Vance kagabi.

"Pero hindi ka pa man niya nakikilala may malalaman na siyang hindi maganda tungkol
sa 'yo."

Ano namang masama kung sabihin ng pinsan nito sa mommy nito ang nangyari?

She might've have said some unfit words to his cousin but she only did that
thinking she's just another bitch. Besides, she's really bound to scare any woman
that could go between her and Vance. Gano'n naman talaga kung gusto mong ipaglaban
ang isang relasyon.

Dahil ba doon mate-turn off na ito?

Isa pa, kailangan ba botong-boto ang ina nito sa kanya?

It may be a plus factor but what if his mom rejects her?

Hindi na din ba siya magugustuhan ng binata dahil ayaw ng nanay nito sa ugali niya?

It's so unfair

Kung gusto siya nito, kahit sino pa ang humarang, gugustuhin pa rin siya. No one
should ever decide for it except him. Kung mamahalin siya nito dapat mahalin siya
tanggap man siya ng pamilya nito o hindi.

=================

26. Di Tugma

If you straighten, it will strengthen.

[Ano daw? Kapag itinuwid, titigas? Char. In fairness, na-miss kong maglagay ng
imbento kong quotes sa bawat chapter kaya pagbigyan niyo na ako. Hehe! I'm reading
all your comments. THANKS! Medyo walang tumatama sa mga hula niyo gaya no'ng sa
MtaHM dati. Haha! Pero may mga iba na parang nage-gets nila yung plot line pero
nahihiya silang aminin sa sarili nila na gano'n ang iniisip nila. Haha! Basta
salamat. I feel overwhelmed.]

Ayusin natin ng konti 'yong quotation.

***

Straighten things up to make the relationship work out. -jazlykdat

Kung hindi pa nag-ring ang phone ni Thea, hindi niya makikitang may mga mensahe
pala si Vance. She put her headset on and answered his call.

"I went at Marjorie's house with friends." She answered when he asked where she is.
Nasa condo tower daw ito.

"Sunduin kita diyan." Saad naman ni Vance.

"I'm already on my way home. Hintayin mo na lang ako diyan." Tugon naman niya rito.

"Okay." He said before she ended the call.

They spoke like nothing happened yesterday.

Huminga na lang siya ng malalim at nag-concentrate sa pagda-drive.

______

Vance was waiting outside her unit when she arrived.

"I'm sorry about last night. I should've not compared you to Leandrei's
girlfriend." Hayag agad nito nang makalapit siya.

She inhaled deeply but didn't speak.

"You

are right when you said that you are not supposed to kiss anybody else's ass." He
added handing her a bouquet of gerberas.

Ngumiti siya ng tipid. Those statements somehow appeased her.

"I just wished you could've just said, you don't want to please anyone, rather than
that." He added inhaling deeply.

Inisip niyang mabuti ang sinabi nito. She gets his point. Maybe she really had to
tame her words a bit.

"Sorry din kung naging padalus-dalos ako. I should've not said those things." She
muttered.

Vance smiled and crossed their distance. Yumakap ito sa kanya.

"It's okay. They mean the same anyway." He kissed the top of her head.

God. It felt like they've been away for years. Nagkasagutan lang sila at hindi nag-
usap agad parang na-miss na niya ito ng matagal.

Vance cupped her face and stared at her.

"Saka dapat ko ring tanggapin na ganyan ka na talaga katapang magsalita." Natatawa

nitong saad.

Napatawa rin siya.

"So make up sex na?" Natatawang sambit ng binata.

"Manyak ka talaga." Irap niya rito at kumalas sa pagkakayakap nito.

Tumawa lang ang binata.

He held her hand and guided her back to the elevator.

"Let's dine out." Saad nito.

Nagpatianod na lang din siya. Ayaw niya rin namang patagalin ang away nila. At
least, he gets her point and she also understands him.

"Sana wala na namang babae na lalapit sa 'yo." Saad niya rito nang nasa kotse na
sila.

Vance stared at her.

"Sorry about that. Nagsasawa ka na bang itaboy sila?" Vance asked.

Nagsasawa

na nga ba siya?

Para nga yatang may trauma na siya kapag may lumalapit ritong babae kaya pati ang
pinsan nito ay nilait-lait niya at hindi talaga binigyan ng pagkakataong makasagot.

"Lahat yata kasi ng babaeng nakasasalamuha mo naikama mo na." Tugon niya rito.

Vance's expression softened. For a moment, she saw guilt in his green eyes.

"Hmm...maybe... but they are all part of the past now."

Inabot nito ang kamay niya at marahang hinalikan.

She inhaled deeply. The thought that Vance migth've bedded a lot of women in his
circle distracts her.

Paano kapag mag-asawa na sila tapos lahat na lang pala ng babaeng makakausap niya
naikama na nito?

That would be a lot awkward.

But who is she to judge his past?

Alam naman niyang babaero ito dati pa at tinanggap niya iyon.

Ngayon pa ba siya mag-iinarte?

"Are you going to break up with me because of my past?" malungkot nitong tanong. He
played the right on her hand as he stared at her.

Seeing frailty in his eyes made her chuckle. Hindi kasi siya sanay. Vance always
had that confidence and seeing his reaction seems to be a joke.

"Ang OA mo." Natatawa niyang taboy sa kamay nito.

"Mag-drive ka na. Gutom na ako. Isa pa kaya ko pang mang-away 'no. Huwag kang mag-
alala." Sunod-sunod niyang hayag. She chuckled at what she said.

She doesn't want to see that sadness in Vance's eyes. Kaya biniro na lang niya ito.

Ngumiti naman ito ng tipid.

"Totoo yan ha?" paninigurado pa nito.

Kinindatan niya lang ito.

They

went to dinner just like the usual. Vance opted to choose the restaurant's VIP
room. Para siguradong wala ng lalapit sa kanila.

Bumalik ulit ang sigla sa boses ng binata. They talk about a lot of things before
heading back to her unit.

Make-up sex. They say it's the best. Thea was able to prove it that night. They did
it in her couch the moment they get inside her unit. It was mindblowing.

After cuddling for few minutes, they went to her bed for another round. But that
only led to something different, she got distracted. Pumasok na naman kasi sa isip
niya ang ideyang lahat ng ginagawa nila ay ginawa na nito sa ibang babae.

She tried to shake it off her head. Nag-enjoy naman siya pero hati ang utak niya.

Napansin din yata ito ni Vance dahil saglit itong napatigil noong nasa kalagitnaan
na sila. But she urged him to continue and so he did. It was still gratifying
though.

_____

Thea tried to brush off Vance's past on her mind the next days.
Mabuti na lang hindi na sila madalas lumabas ng binata. Madalas sa condo na sila
kumakain. Vance sometimes cooks for dinner. Sinusubukan niyang tumulong para matuto
siya pero pinapatigil siya ng binata dahil nakakapagpabagal lang daw siya.

Vance is actually the sweetest. Kumbinsido naman siya doon.

Kapag mayroon silang hindi nagugustuhan sa isa't-isa open na nilang sinasabi. It

was his idea para maiwasan daw ang hindi pagkakaintindihan.

She was happy with their progress.

'Yon nga lang, hindi ito nag-oopen kung kailan siya nito ipakikilala sa magulang
nito.

May

mga pagkakataong naiisip niya na baka may kinalaman pa rin ito sa nangyari sa
pinsan nito. Baka nagsumbong nga talaga ang pinsan nito at naghihintay lang ng
tamang pagkakataon ang binata. Ipinagsawalang-bahala na lang niya iyon.

Iniisip niya rin na baka sa kasal na lang ni Leandrei siya nito ipakikilala pero
dumaan ang tatlong linggo ay hindi pa naman siya iniimbitahan ng binata.

She even tried asking Arnie kung alam nito kung kailan ang kasal ni Leandrei pero
sa kanya pa pala nalaman ng isa na ikakasal na ang binata.

"We can't meet next Saturday. Kailangan ko kasing mag-whole day sa venue ng Fashion
Show. I'll help in prepping up." Paalam niya sa binata. They were watching a movie
while lying in bed.

"Hindi ba gabi naman 'yong Fashion show? Puwedeng Sunday ka na lang ng umaga mag-
check ng venue?" Bumangon ang binata at sumandal sa headboard. He caressed her
hair. Tiningala naman niya ito.

"Why?" She asked curious. Though she knows it would be impossible to skip the
Saturday preparations.

"Kasal ni Leandrei sa Saturday. I was planning to take you as my date."

Napaupo siya bigla sa narinig mula sa binata.

"Bakit ngayon mo lang sinabi?" Agad niyang tanong.

"So, you're coming with me?" Vance asked unsure.

"Baka hindi papayag si ate na wala ako sa Saturday. She's counting on me. She
didn't hire anyone for the stage preparations." Paliwanag niya rito.

Ipinangako niya kasi 'yon sa kapatid niya kaya hindi na nag-hire ng ibang stage
designers, mga tutulong lang sa pag-aayos ang kinuha nito pero

limited lang sa pagbubuhat at pagkakabit ng kung anu-ano.

Vance nodded but didn't speak.

"Nakita mo naman na may dine-design ako sa gabi para sa venue ng fashion show 'di
ba? I am even making phone calls while we're together for the materials." Dagdag
paliwanag niya.
Nanghihinayang din siya kasi umasa rin talaga siyang isasama siya nito sa kasal ng
kapatid nito. Hindi lang niya talaga inasahan na magsasabay ito sa preparation ng
Fashion Show. Bakit kasi ngayon lang ito nagsabi?

"Yeah but I was thinking Sunday naman iyon and I thought you're already doing it
since every Sunday kay nagkikita ng ate mo for the preparations." Saad nito. May
panghihinayang din sa tono nito. Mas lalo tuloy siyang nalungkot.

"Hindi ba puwedeng gawin niyo na 'yong design ng venue ngayong week na 'to? Huwag
ka ng pumasok ng opisina. So you could come on Saturday." Saad nito.

Sounds great. She just hopes it's possible.

"I will call my sister." She informed. Agad niyang dinampot ang cellphone sa side
table. Vance turned off the TV and sat silently beside her.

Unang sabi pa lang niya sa kapatid niya na gawing weekdays ang stage preparations
halatang galit na ito.

"Hindi ba tapos na ang usapan na Saturday gagawin lahat?" Her sister fired right
away.

"I know. Pero may pupuntahan sana ako sa Saturday. There is an emergency at work."
Paliwanag niya rito.

"What? The Venue will be used on Friday by another event. Saturday lang talaga."
Bumaba ang boses ng kausap.

She momentarily closed her eyes. There must be some

way to reconcile things. Gusto niya ring mag-attend ng kasal ng kapatid ni Vance.

"Hindi ba tayo puwedeng lumipat ng venue, ate?" She suggested.

"Sissy, the invitations are out. What do you want me to do? Recall everything?" Her
sister answered. Hindi siya nakasagot agad.

"Thea please don't do this. Ask your boss, he'll probably understand."

Tuluyan na siyang nawalan ng isasagot sa sinabi ng kapatid.

"Thea kapag talaga sa Saturday wala ka. Kalimutan mo nang kapatid mo ako." Her
sister muttered again.

"Okay. Stop please. Hindi ako mawawala." She finally said resigning. She put the
phone down.

"Hindi talaga puwede." Nalulungkot niyang baling sa binata.

Hindi naman ito nagsalita.

Ang galing kasi ng timing eh. Hindi tugma. Kainis lang.

They sat there in silence.

"Hey, sweetheart. It's okay." Hinigit siya nito palapit at niyakap.

"Bakit kasi ngayon ka lang nagsabi? Nagawan ko sana ng paraan." Nanghihinayang

niyang saad. Yumakap siya sa baywang at humilig sa dibdib nito.
Vance inhaled deeply.

"I was having second thoughts. Baka kasi hindi ka pumayag."

Napatingala siya sa binata. Ngumiti naman ito ng tipid.

"Because of what happened to you and my cousin last time. Baka mahihiya ka nang i-
meet ang family ko." He explained.

"Bakit naman ako mahihiya. Ako pa ba?" Natatawa naman niyang biro rito. She doesn't
like the serious atmosphere between them. Mas sanay siyang nakikipagkulitan rito.

"Ipakikilala na lang kita sa ibang pagkakataon." Saad ni Vance

"Talaga?" Tipid niyang ngiti. Pinigilan niyang kiligin.

"Yes. After the wedding bago ang alis no'ng dalawa para sa honeymoon nila." He
answered smiling. Napangiti na siya ng tuluyan.

So he is introducing her to his family finally?

"Pero sa Sunday hahabol ako sa fashion show ng ate mo. Ipakilala mo ako sa family
mo para fair." Natatawa nitong dagdag.

"Yon lang ba? Sige." She smiled.

Mas lalo namang humigpit ang yakap nito.

=================

27. Accept or Leave

There are only two things you can do about the past - accept it or leave it behind.
-jazlykdat

Buong araw naging busy si Thea pagdating ng Sabado. Hindi na sila nakapag-usap ni
Vance.

Lingo ng umaga na nila ginawa ang finishing touches ng venue. She had to rest in
afternoon para sa fashion show ng gabi.

A lot of their friends and relatives would come. Kaya hindi maiiwasang kasali siya
sa mga mag-eentertain sa mga mag-aattend. There are ushers pero iba pa rin kapag
sila.

May dalawang parte ang event, una ang fashion pagkatapos ng fashion ay puwede nang
magpa-reserve ang mga guests ng gusto nilang apparels. Marami rin kasing displayed
items bukod sa irarampa ng mga modelo. There's a buffet table where guests could
just get drinks and finger foods while moving around the displays.

Nakadikit lang siya sa kapatid habang wini-welcome ang mga bisita. They stood by
the entrance. Most of the invited guests are acquaintances in the business world.
Marami-rami din kasi ang kakilala ng pamilya nila lalo na ang mga magulang nila.

Dumating din ang dalawang kaibigan niyang sina Rose at Candice, palibhasa mga
single.

"Thea, my cousin dear. It's nice to see you again. How are you?"

Nakipagbeso ang bagong dating na babae sa kanya.

"Hi Pam! I'm doing fine." She answered with a fake smile. Pinandilatan niya ang ate
niya. Alam naman kasi nitong naiirita siya sa pinsan, inimbita pa.

Pamela always thinks that she's a rival since they were young. Lagi nitong pinupuna
ang

mali sa kanya. Well, mali lang pala ang napupuna nito.

"You look a little haggard." Saad nito nang tingnan siya mula ulo hanggang paa.
Hindi na siya nagtaka sa narinig.

"I help in the preparations of the show." She answered out of courtesy.

"Mas gusto mo talaga ang mga ganyang trabaho 'no?" May himig pangungutya nitong
sambit. Pinigil niya ang sariling magsalita ng hindi maganda.

She inhaled deeply.

Just a little tamer, Thea. Remember what your boyfriend said. She reminded herself.

"Yes. I'm happy with it." Tugon niya rito.

"Puwede ka naman kasing mag-business. I'm sure Tito and Tita will be glad to give
you capital just like what they did to your sister." Pamela stated.

Why did it sound like she's mocking again?

"Pam, your seat is at the VIP in front." Sabad ng ate niya. Agad niya itong iginiya
sa direksyon ng reserve seat nito.

Mabuti na lang. Inismiran na lamang niya ito para makabawi.

Halos kita na ang kaluluwa nito sa gown na suot. Akala siguro nito maganda.

Well, maganda naman kaya lang kailangan talaga ibandera sa lahat? Kaya nga
pribadong parte kasi hindi dapat pinapakita sa publiko.
She braced herself. Hindi siya dapat ma-badtrip.

She look at her phone for Vance's message but there wasn't any. Hindi niya tuloy
alam kung darating pa ito o hindi.

Kinailangan na niyang pumunta sa upuan niya nang magsisimula na ang show. Mabuti na
lang at malayo ang kinauupuan niya sa pinsan niya. Sigurado kasing kung anu-ano na
naman ang pupunahin nito lalo na't nalaman nitong

siya ulit ang nag-ayos sa venue. Nangyari na 'yon noong huli.

The chair next to her is vacant. It was reserved for Vance.

Her mom is already asking who's to sit beside her. Sa kabilang side niya kasi ito
nakaupo.

"Late lang siguro, 'my." Saad niya rito.

"Sino nga?" Pangungulit nito.

"Basta po." Tugon na lamang niya. Mabuti na lang nagsimula nang magsalita ang emcee
kaya natahimik rin ang ina.

They watched silently.

The gowns were exceptional. There were three batch of apparels - casual, gowns and
beach wear. Gano'n talaga mag-launch ang ate niya -minsanan. 'Yong iba kasi depende
sa season.

Susunod na ang last batch ng rarampa pero wala pa rin si Vance.

Maiinis na sana siya ng tuluyan nang may umupo sa tabi niya. His scent is too
familiar not to recognize. Humalik ito ng magaan sa sentido niya bago naupo.

She smiled at Vance.

Ang mommy niya na nasa tabi niya ay napapantastikuhan pang tumingin sa kanya.

"Later mom." She whispered saka lang ito umupo ng maayos. The models began to walk.

Napakunot-noo siya nang makita ang ilang modelo na sumusulyap talaga kay Vance
habang nagrarampa.

Kanina wala namang model ang tumitingin sa gawi niya.

She felt awkward. Napatingin pa siya sa katabi. Ngumiti naman ito sa kanya. Mabuti
na lang at hinawakan nito ang kamay niya kaya napanatag siya.

Napansin siguro nito ang pagkaasiwa niya.

Those stares... She pretty knew what they mean. Something is creeping on her mind
again. She remembered Karel. That model kissing Vance in his office.

No.
They are part of the past. She reminded herself.

Vance held her hand until the last batch ended.

The second part of the event started. The guests could already make orders of the
designs.

There are high round tables away from the stage where the guests could talk to each
other, drink and eat whatever is at the buffet table.

"Mom, Dad." Tawag niya sa mga magulang nang tumayo ang mga ito sa kinauupuan.

Ipakikilala pa lang sana niya ang binata pero nauna na itong nagsalita.

"Ma'am, Sir, good evening po." He greeted with a smile. Her parents looked at him.

"I am Vance Luanne Filan, Thea's boyfriend." He uttered immediately. He extended

his hand for a handshake. Napalunok siya.

How confident?

Hindi pa agad naka-react ang mommy niya. Her dad was the first to shake his hand.

"I'm glad to finally meet you up close, sir." Diretsong saad ni Vance sa ama niya.

Bumaling ang daddy niya sa kanya. Tumango naman siya.

"Well in that case, you better take care of my daughter, young man." Her dad
muttered.

"I will sir." Vance smiled. Sumulyap pa ito sa kanya bago bumaling sa ama niya.

"Good." Her dad said nodding.

Sinunod naman nitong kinamayan ang nakangiti niyang ina. Mabuti nga kalmado pa ito
at hindi masyadong natutuwa pero kilala niya ang ina. She knows she's squealing
inside.

Bago pa man nito birahan ng tanong si Vance, hinila na niya ang binata papunta kina
Candice at Rose. The two just gave him a smile and did not react further.

She went to her sister to introduce Vance. Nandoon naman si Pamela na personal nang
nagpapa-reserve ng gowns nito.

"Ate, may boyfriend na ako." Bulong niya sa kapatid. Sapat lang na marinig nito.
Hindi niya napigilang mapangiti.

"Finally." Tumawa ang ate niya. Kinurot pa niya ito. Vance laughed at them. His arm
is clasped on her waist.

She ignored Pamela raking her eyes on Vance.

"Vance Luanne, Thea's boyfriend." he extended his hand to her sister. Tinanggap
naman ito ng ate niya.
"Chandria," her sister muttered.

"You're collections are great. Congratulations!" Vance commented. Napangiti naman

ang ate niya na mukhang proud na proud.

"Yung beach wear lang ang naabutan niya." Biro naman niya sa kapatid.

Napatawa ito. Pinisil pa ni Vance ang tagiliran at pinandilatan siya pero tinawanan
lang niya ang binata.

"As always, Vance is still rooting for the body." Pamela commented. Napatingin sila
rito. Papansin talaga. Muntik na nga niyang makalimutan ang presensiya nito.

Vance looked at Pamela with a creased forehead.

"She's my cousin, Pamela." Saad niya sa binata.

Vance extended his hand.

"It seems like you don't recognize me at all. Ang bilis mo namang makalimot."
Pamela laughed.

Nagkatinginan silang magkapatid. Ang landi lang kasi ng pagkakasabi nito. It

sounded like it meant something different

"Why? Have we met before? I don't really recognize you." Vance said honestly.

She wanted to laugh at his bluntness. Pero sa halip na mapahiya ay napatawa

pa ang pinsan niya pero hindi naman nito sinagot ang binata.

They were silent for a moment. 'Yong mahinang tugtog lang ang naririnig.

"Do you want a drink? I'll get some." Vance asked her.

"Yes please," she smiled at her boyfriend.

"Ate?" baling nito sa ate niya na ikinangiti naman ng isa.

"Red wine lang." Tipid namang saad ng ate niya. Agad namang tinungo ng binata ang
mga nagse-serve ng drinks sa buffet table.

Nagkangitian silang magkapatid dahil naitsapuwera ang mahaderang pinsan.

Pero mas masakit pala talaga ang ganti dahil natahimik na siya nang magsalita ang
pinsan.

"Boyfriend mo talaga si Vance?" Pamela asked with a smirk. Tipid siyang ngumiti at
tumango.

"I thought you're the most tamed among our clan. But knowing Vance for sure,
nagpakasasa na siya sa 'yo."

She wasn't able to speak. Pakiramdam niya ay pinamulahan siya sa sinabi nito.

"That was a very decent remark coming from an educated one." Her sister said
sarcastically rescuing her.

"Ate nagbibiro lang ako." Pamela laughed.

Nakahinga siya ng maluwag pero ang ate niya mukhang pikon na. She felt hurt seeing
her sister's reaction. Her sister never reacted whatever Pam tells her before.
Ngayon lang ito nagsalita. Maybe because what Pam said is really derogatory.

Pam looked at her and smiled.

"But he is really huge and expert in bed. I'll never forget how she made me feel
when we had sex once." Pam said before leaving them.

Kulang na lang ay batuhin ito ng ate niya.

They were both

silent when Vance came back with their wine glasses.

Hindi siya makatingin ng diretso sa ate niya. Vance felt the silence. Nagtatanong
ang mga mata nitong tumingin sa kanya.

"I have to entertain other guests." Her sister excused herself. Tinapik siya nito
sa balikat bago tuluyang umalis. Naiwan silang dalawa.

She went to one of the high tables and put down the glass. Sumunod naman ang
binata.

"What happened?" Vance asked. Umakbay ito sa kanya.

Ngumiti siya ng tipid.

"You had sex with my cousin before?" Diretso niyang tanong rito. Vance's forehead
creased. Napalunok ito.

"I am not sure. Maybe. I don't remember." He answered honestly.

She inhaled deeply. Napatango siya.

"I'll just go to the washroom." Paalam niya rito. Tumango naman ito. She needs to
calm herself.

She washed her face with cold water. Ilang beses siyang huminga ng malalim bago
inayos ang sarili.

Hindi siya dapat magalit.

Maybe it's a part of Vance's life that she needs to accept.

She went to one of the cubicles and pee. Somehow, she calmed.

She was about to go out of the cubicle when she heard giggles.

"He's really handsome. Those green eyes, shocks!" A woman squealed.

May iba pa kayang guest na may berdeng mata bukod sa boyfriend niya?

"Is he really that good in bed?" another girl asked.

"Sinabi mo pa." Sagot no'ng naunang nagsalita kanina..

"Ask me too," another voice butted in.

"Ikaw din?" one of girls asked. She heard giggles and laughter.

Her heart beats raced. Huminga siya ng malalim.

It wasn't Vance. It wasn't her boyfriend. She recited in her head.

"Siya talaga ang pinakaguwapo sa triplets."

That remark made her static.

"I heard Leandrei got married yesterday."

Shit.

She earned courage to walk out from the cubicle.

Natigil ang mga babae sa pagsasalita. She just glanced at them with a smirk before
making her way out.

"Lets go." Saad niya kay Vance nang madaanan ito bago tuloy-tuloy na lumabas ng
venue.

She's fuming mad. Hindi niya alam kung matatagalan pa niya ang mga gano'ng eksena.

=================

28. Madness

There is beauty in madness just like lessons in all mistakes.

Thea is fuming mad. The scene with her cousin and everything the girls were talking
about echoed in her head.

Paulit-ulit.

"Hey is there a problem?" Vance asked while driving.

Hindi siya nagsalita. She's trying to calm herself. Baka kapag nagsalita siya may
masabi na naman siyang hindi maganda.

Good thing, vance didn't repeat asking. Ramdam siguro nitong wala siya sa mood.

"Tell me honestly, Vance. Lahat na lang ba talaga ng babae na nakapalibot sa 'yo

ikinama mo?" She asked when they were inside her unit. Hindi na niya napigilan ang
galit na umalpas sa dibdib niya.

"What's this again?" kalmado nitong tanong.

Her jaw tensed at his calmness.

"Lahat na lang ba ng babaeng makakasalubong ko, sasabihing magaling ka sa kama?"

Mahina ngunit madiin niyang saad. She hates the feeling.

Napayuko ang binata. She remained silent.

Why can't she calm down?

Fuck it!

"Before we became official, I already told you there were a lot of them."

"I know!" She said cutting him.

"Pero kasi pati ba naman pinsan ko? Vance naman." Hindi niya alam kung sa ulo ba
siya hahawak o sa baywang. She can't seem to calm down thinking that he bedded
almost everyone including her cousin.

Sa lahat naman ng babae bakit pinsan niya pa ang isa?

She wiped her cheek when few tears run down.

"I didn't know she's your cousin. Heck, I don't even remember bedding her."

He said honestly.

"Because that's what you do! Bedding, having sex then forgetting. Grabe naman
kasing libido 'yan!" Hindi niya maiwasang magtaas ng boses. She tried hard to keep
the curses in her mind.

Sana pinasinungalingan na lang nito. He's too brutally honest to admit he doesn't
remember and that there may be truthfulness to her cousin's claim.

Tuluyan nang nagsilaglagan ang mga luhang kinikimkim niya.

"Hey, sweetheart." He mumbled hugging her tightly.

"I can no longer erase the past. But you can be assured that it's only you now and
no one else." He said trying to calm her down.
Alam naman niya iyon. Sobrang nakakaiinis lang kasi ng mga narinig niya.

"I don't understand why you are making it a big deal. I'm a man."

That made her angrier. Marahas siyang kumalas sa yakap nito.

"Can you hear yourself?" She said looking at him in disbelief. She inhaled deeply
to gather the words in her mind.

"Isipin mo kapag may kainuman kang kaibigan and then all of a sudden he'd say ang
sarap ng girlfriend mo, we had sex once. How would you feel?"

Hindi nakaimik ang binata. He looked at her helplessly.

"Kung anong mararamdaman mo, gano'n din ang nararamdaman ko ngayon. Ke babae man o
lalaki pareho lang 'yong nakapanggigigil." Saad niya rito.

She sat on the couch with shaking knees. Nasapo niya ang ulo.

She felt him sitting beside her.

He didn't say anything.

"Go home, Vance. Gusto kong mag-isip." Sinulyapan

niya ang binata. Nakatitig lang naman ito sa kanya. Hindi ito nagsalita.

Tumayo siya at tinalikuran na ito. She immediately went to her room.

She shut the door close but he was fast enough to enter.

"Get out, Vance." Mariin niyang saad.

BUT he only stared at her. Hindi nagsalita at hindi rin gumalaw mula sa
kinatatayuan.

She pursed her lips. She's annoyed and hurt. She wants to think.

Kailangan niyang isipin kung tama ba ang naging desisyon niyang tanggapin ito o
kailangan niya talaga itong pakawalan.

Maybe he wasn't really the one she needs in life.

"Vance, please get out." She said for the last time but he still didn't move. Hindi
rin ito nagsalita ng kahit ano.

"Tatawag ako ng security." Banta niya rito pero tumitig lang ito sa kanya.

Mas lalo siyang nainis sa hindi nito pagsasalita. If only she could kick him, she
would. But that wouldn't be sane.

She went to the bathroom and hid at the walk-in closet.

She cried her heart out.

She likes Vance so much. She's starting to visualize the future with him. Kahit na
hindi siya sigurado kung seryoso ito sa kanya.

She knows he used to be a playboy. She knows he have bedded a lot of women and she
thought she accepted that fact.

BUT everything she heard earlier infuriates her.

Paano kapag mag-asawa na sila?

Lahat na lang ba ng makakasalubong niyang babae naikama na nito?

Nakakapanggigil talaga sa inis.

She wiped her eyes.

Hindi niya alam kung ilang oras

siyang nagkulong sa loob ng closet bago naisipang ayusin ang sarili. Mukha na
siyang multo dahil sa nagkalat na makeup.

She showered to cool down. Nagsuot siya ng pantulog bago lumabas ng bathroom.

She thought Vance already left but he stood up from the bed when he saw her.

"Bakit hindi ka pa umuwi?" tanong niya rito. She was too tired, the words came out
as a whisper.

Vance just looked at her but didn't answer.

Shit.

She wanted so much to curse. She really hates it when Vance gets silent. Hindi ito
ang tamang panahon sa pananahimik nito.

"Go home, Vance." She said calmly. Humiga siya sa kama at hindi na ito sinulyapan
pa.
She closed her eyes.

Ilang minuto na siyang nakapikit pero hindi pa rin niya maramdaman ang paglabas
nito ng kuwarto.

Hindi na lang siya nagsalita. Kung ayaw nitong magsalita, hindi na rin siya
magsasalita.

Mariin siyang napapikit nang maramdaman ang paghiga nito sa tabi niya. Hindi siya
nag-react nang yakapin siya nito.

She can't help but think if he also did it to his women before.

Her tears started rolling again. She hates the feeling that he's giving her.

________

She didn't know what time she was able to sleep. Paggising niya wala na ang
lalaking katabi. Maybe he already left.

She inhaled deeply.

She got up with a throbbing head. Malamang ay dahil sa puyat at pag-iyak niya
kagabi.
She slowly went outside her room.

Napalunok siya nang makitang nagluluto ang binata sa kusina.

She walk

towards the kitchen. She stared at Vance's back as he cooks.

"Ilang babae na ang ipinagluto mo?" tanong niya rito nang makalapit.

Vance stared back at her. His eyes look sad but he managed to smile a bit.

"Tatlo." Sagot nito.

She smiled bitterly.

Why does he need to be honest? Sana nagsinungaling na lang ito at sinabing siya
lang.

"May I know their names?" Lakas-loob niyang tanong rito.

"Lianna, Vanna Lei and Thea." He answered. Inilagay nito sa dining table ang
nilutong fried rice.

She stared at the food. There are herbs, ham and egg. Mukhang lumabas pa ito para
mamili ng isasahog rice.
"Lianna is my mom---"

"I know." She said cutting him. "and Vanna Lei is your sister." She added.

Nginitian niya ng tipid ang binata. A tear escaped her eye.

Vance may be a playboy in the past but she had seen his efforts. Nakita naman
niyang sa mga nagdaang linggo, siya ang naging mundo nito. There is no question
about that.

If there were a lot of women in the past at least he was true to his word that she
is the only one at present.

"Bakit hindi ka pa umuuwi?" tanong niya rito. Vance looked at her for a moment. He
stepped closer to where she is.

Tumigil ito nang ilang pulgada na lang ang distansiya nila.

Nakita niyang huminga ito ng malalim at napalunok ng ilang beses.

"You were so mad last night that I thought if I'd leave, I might never see you
again." He stated. She looked at his green eyes. She saw melancholy.

"What is more fearful is that I can not do anything to stop you from getting mad
because I can not change my past anymore." Dagdag nito.

His eyes get teary. Pero hindi tuluyang bumagsak ang luha nito.

Maybe he's controlling it.

But what makes her heart beats faster is that she could see his sincerity.

"I didn't leave b-because I love you." He said looking straight at her eyes.
Siya naman ang napalunok sa sinabi nito. Her heart started beating so fast.
Pakiramdam niya ay hindi ito kayang habulin ng hininga niya.

She was totally dumbfounded. She never expected him to say it.

She averted her gaze but her eyes watered.

She crossed their distance and hugged him tight.

Niyakap din siya nito ng buong pagmamahal.

There is uncertainty in her heart but his warm embrace seems to calm her.

=================

29. The Girl without a Tick

Men are always certain with how they feel, with which, most of the time, women are
not.

"How did you know you already love me?" Thea teased while they are going inside
Vance's office. Sa condo na sila nanggaling kanina. Dinalhan kasi ito ng family
driver nila ng damit na pagbibihisan nito.

"Are you sure you wanna know?" Vance grinned.

Parang wala na namang nangyaring drama kagabi.

She feels light. Nawala ang lahat ng bigat sa dibdib niya ng nagdaang gabi.
Pakiramdam niya ay kaya niyang salubungin ang lahat ng babae at sabihing, hey, he's
mine now.
"That's why I am asking." Natatawa niya itong hinampas sa braso.

Vance smiled seductively. He looked at her for a moment. Nasa tapat na sila ng mesa
nito.

"Well, it's when I didn't want to use condom anymore." Kindat nito.

"Manyak ka talaga!" natatawa niya itong hinampas. Vance chuckled.

"Yes, I am at hindi ako ang mag-aadjust." Saad nito bago siya kinabig at mabilis na
hinalikan sa mga labi.

The kiss lingered. Nagpaubaya kasi siya ng tuluyan. It was so sweet. Maybe because
he already said he loves her and she believes him.

He nipped her lower and gave her chase kisses on the lips before releasing her.

"Nabitin ka?" tudyo nito nang hindi agad siya nakagalaw.

"We could continue if you want." Kumindat ito at itinuro ang couch.

"Ituloy mo mag-isa." Marahan niya itong itinulak at nagtungo na sa sariling mesa.

Tatawa-tawa

naman itong sumunod at tumayo sa harapan ng mesa niya.

"Madali akong kausap." Nakangisi nitong sambit.

Kunot-noo siyang napatitig dito. Saka lang niya nakuha ang ibig nitong sabihin nang
akmang magtatanggal na ng belt.

"Stop that!" Agad siyang napatayo at hinampas ang kamay nito. Natatawa naman itong
umatras para iwasan ang hampas niya.

"Masarap ka talagang asarin." Natatawa nitong sambit habang pabalik sa upuan nito.

She just rolled her eyes.

Maybe she really had to live with Vance's teasing attitude, too.

Naiiling na lang niyang binuksan ang macbook sa harap.

She was about to start the app that would launch how the laboratory is doing when
she heard someone entering the office.

"Where did you sleep last night?"

Kinabahan siya nang makita kung sino ang babaeng pumasok sa opisina. Naiatras pa
niya ang swivel para hindi siya nito makita.

"Mom." Nakita niya ang agarang pagtayo ni Vance.

"I actually came here to ask --, oh you redecorated your office."

Napalunok siya. Nakita siguro nito ang filing cabinet kaya natigil sa pagsasalita.

"Who's this girl?" rinig niyang sambit nito kaya napilitan siyang tumayo at humarap
sa ginang. She smiled shyly. Tiningnan naman siya nito na parang kinikilala o baka
kinikilatis.

"Meet Thea Kimberly, mom." Pagpapakilala ni Vance sa kanya. His mom looks regal and
classy.

"Thea, this is my mom, Lianna Filan." He added.

Nahihiya niyang iniabot ang kamay sa ginang na tinanggap naman nito. She felt a
little tense. Baka kasi

nalaman na nito ang ginawa niyang panlalait sa pinsan ni Vance.

"I'm glad to meet you, Ma'am." Sambit niya rito.

Nakahinga siya ng maluwag nang ngumiti ito ng matamis bago bumitaw.

Pero bumalik ang kaba niya nang may lalaking pumasok. It was Vance's dad.

"Love, look at her." Baling ni Lianna sa asawa. Berdeng-berde pala ang mata ng ama
nito sa malapitan. Kamukha ito nina Vander at Leandrei maliban sa mga mata na
minana ng mga ito sa ina. Vance is more of a combination of his parents' features.

Napalunok siya nang tumingin ang ama ni Vance sa kanya ng diretso.

"Thea Kimberly Samaniego, the girl without a tick." He smiled and stepped closer to
her table. Hindi siya makapaniwalang kilala siya nito.

And how did he address her?

"The girl without a tick?" halos sabay pa sila ni Vance na nagsalita.

Lianna and Vaughn laughed and looked at each other.

Pumunta naman sa tabi niya si Vance. They are now both facing his parents.

She wished to be introduced to Vance's parents but she didn't expect it to be

abrupt. Hindi niya tuloy alam ang sasabihin sa harap ng mga ito.

She felt Vance's hand on her back pero ibinaba rin nito nang bumalik ang tingin ng
mga magulang nito sa kanila.

"That's actually the reason why I passed by. I asked your siblings who added her in
the guest list, all of them denied." His mom stated looking at Vance.

Sunod naman siya nitong tiningnan.

"You know my husband have this database where all our guests during occasions are
listed." Umpisang paliwanag ng ginang. Nakatingin

lang din ang ama ni Vance sa kanya.

"Your name was always in the lists since the triplets were in high school and
college but it never had a check mark." Dagdag ng ginang.

"And my wife being nosy and all got curious when your name appeared again at
Leandrei's wedding guests list after few years." Natatawang dagdag ng ama ni Vance.

She remained static. Hindi niya kasi alam ang isasagot.

"Pero dati na talaga siyang curious kung bakit hindi ka ni minsan nag-attend ng
parties namin." Vance's dad chuckled. Hinampas naman ito ng ginang sa braso na
tinawanan lang nito.

She smiled seeing them. Parang gano'ng ganon din kasi siya kay Vance kapag
nagbibiro ito sa kanya.

"I thought you were rivals with Vance during those days because you were next in
academic rank with him." Nahihiyang pag-amin ng ginang.

Napangiti siya. She couldn't believe that they really know her.

"But seeing you now working in Vance's office, I thought wrong." She chuckled.
Napatawa din siya.

Vance's dad stared at her. Nginitian lang niya ito ng tipid.

"I'm Vaughn Filan." Natutuwa nitong iniabot ang kamay. She gladly shook his hand.
Mababait naman pala ang mga ito.

"So you are the prime suspect?" Sambit niya rito nang mabawi ang kamay.

"What?"/ "Prime suspect?" / "Ano?" Sabay-sabay pa ang tatlo na nagsalita.

She chuckled at their reactions.

"So you are the person whom Vance inherited his green eyes." She stated without
hesitation looking at his father's green eyes.

Napahawak siya sa kamay ni

Vance nang agad nitong tinakpan ang mga mata niya.

"Don't look at my dad's eyes baka sa kanya ka ma-inlove." Saad nito. She tried to
get away from his grip pero mahigpit ang hawak nito. Nahiya na rin naman siyang
manlaban pa dahil nasa harap lang sila ng mga magulang nito.

She heard his parents' laughter.

"Another hopeless son you got here." She heard Vaughn stated. Binuntutan nito ng
mahinang pagtawa. Saka lang siya binitawan ni Vance.

"Oh my..." Lianna exclaimed looking at Vance.

"Anak, kakakasal pa lang ng kapatid mo." Sambit nito.

"We all know that mom." Vance uttered dismissing his mother.

Natawa naman ang ama nito. Nanatili siyang tulala sa mag-anak na nag-uusap.

She pretty knew what his mom means with what she said. Kakakasal pa lang ni
Leandrei ibig sabihin huwag din muna itong sumunod.

Natahimik na lang siya.

Nagpaalam din agad ang mga ito dahil may pupuntahan pa at napadaan lang talaga.
"So, what do you think of my parents?" tanong nito nang makaalis ang dalawa. He
draped his arms on her shoulders.

"Mababait naman pala sila at sobrang sweet." Saad niya rito.

"Really?" he asked smiling proudly.

"Oo. But you didn't introduce me as your girlfriend." Tugon niya bago umupo sa
silya.

"Hindi ba?" Agad nitong sambit. Nasapo pa nito ang noo.

Tiningnan naman niya ito.

"Shit." He muttered after few seconds of thinking.

"I'm sorry sweetheart. Mamayang gabi sa bahay tayo mag-dinner, ipakikilala

kita formally." Wika nito.

Napangiti siya sa sinabi ng binata.

"Huwag na muna. Ikaw talaga." Naiiling niyang sambit.

"Didn't you hear what your mom said? Kakakasal pa lang daw ng kapatid mo tapos
ipakikilala mo agad na girlfriend?" Natatawa niyang saad rito.

"Huwag mo siyang pansinin. Ninenerbyos lang 'yon na baka pakasalan din kita agad."
Nag-squat ito sa tabi niya at marahang iniharap ang inikot ang swivel chair paharap
sa direksyon nito.

"Baka nakita niya sa mga mata ko kung gaano kitang kamahal." Nakangiti nitong
hayag.

"Ang corny mo na, Vance!" natatawa niyang sambit.

"You never called me sweetheart." Sambit naman nito. He leaned on the armchair and
stared at her.

Napatawa siya.

"Bakit parang naging clingy ka yata." tudyo niya rito.

"Ayaw na kasi kitang makawala." Kindat nito.

"Tama na nga. Magtrabaho ka na!" taboy niya rito. Alam niyang pinamumulahan na
naman siya.

"Ayoko. Mas gusto ko dito. Amoy na amoy." Tumingin pa ito sa pagitan ng hita niya
bago siya tiningala.

"Bastos ka talaga!"

"Sinong mag-aadjust?" Nakangiti naman nitong tugon. Napatawa siya.

She cupped his face and stared at his eyes.

"Ikaw. Ikaw ang mag-aadjust. Bawas-bawas ng kamanyakan okay?" Natatawa niya itong
hinalikan sa labi saka mabilis na pinakawalan.

Natatawa naman itong tumayo.

"Sige na nga. Baka iwanan mo pa ako dahil diyan." Natatawa itong bumalik sa upuan
nito.

She had to hold both her cheeks to stop them

from burning. Pero hindi pa man siya nakahuhuma bumalik na naman ito sa mesa niya.

She saw Arnie walking out of the office.

Vance handed her a bouquet of flowers. It's a combination of gerberas, white lilies
and red roses.

"Gerbera because it's your favorite." Vance muttered while she was accepting it.

"White lilies for my pure intention and red roses for my feelings," he added with a
smile.

She didn't know why it sounded so sweet.

Kainis.

Hindi niya napigilang mapangiti. She had to shake her head to stop herself from
smiling widely.

"Thanks." She mumbled. Sumulyap siya sa binata. Kumindat naman ito.

Muntik na niyang maihampas sa mukha nito ang bouquet nagulat kasi siya sa paglukso
ng puso niya.

He stepped back and went to his table.

She inhaled a couple of times deeply. May balak yata itong patayin siya sa kilig.

"Sweetheart, can I ask something honest?" wika nito nang makaupo. Sumandal ito
swivel chair. He brushed his hair with his hand.

He looked so handsome and manly.

"Why? Weren't you honest the whole time?" She asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Of course I am but this is different." He answered. There is uncertainty in his

voice.
She saw him inhaling deeply and closing his eyes for a moment.

He leaned on his table and faced her direction.

She got a bit nervous. Ang seryoso kasi ng mukha nito.

"Fire away." She uttered with an unsure smile.

Vance inhaled deeply.

"Why do I have this feeling that you don't love me yet?"

Natigilan siya sa tanong nito. She likes him so much. There is no doubt about that.

"I haven't heard you say you love me, too." Vance added.

Tuluyan na siyang natameme sa sinabi nito.

She swallowed hard and tried to speak but no words came out.

She didn't know why his remark sent turbulence in her heart and mind.

=================

30. Ashley

You can't swim in lies forever. The truth has its way of finding you.

It was Thea's first time to cook for dinner. May meeting kasi si Vance kanina kaya
nauna na siyang umuwi.

Sinabi niya ritong magluluto siya, tawang-tawa naman siya nitong binilin na huwag
sunugin ang unit.

Iningusan pa nga niya ito kaya nilambing siya. He said whatever she'll cook he'll
love it. Kaya naman mas lalo siyang sinipag magluto.

She actually wants to learn it for him. Lagi na lang kasi na ang lalaki ang nag-
eeffort sa kanilang dalawa. Well, she also does an effort in bed most of the time.
Hoho!

Pagkatapos ng naging pag-uusap nila noong nakaraang linggo sa office nito mas
naging sweet pa ito. He said he's determined to make her fall hard. Natuwa naman
siya kaya ngayon siya naman ang magpapasaya rito.

She cooked adobo, sweet and sour pork, and chicken afritada. Pinanuod niya sa
youtube kung paano ito gawin. First time niyang magluto, tatlong putahe pa. Ang
taas talaga ng level of confidence niya.

Vance already texted that he's on his way kaya inihanda na niya ang mga pagkain.
She brought out the cake she bought on her way home.

Excited siyang nagbukas ng pinto nang may nag-doorbell. Thinking it was Vance, she
no longer checked the monitor.

Her excitement turned into shock when it wasn't Vance who appeared.

"Surprise! Happy birthday!" Ashley greeted with a hug.

Pakiramdam niya ay naitulos siya sa kinatatayuan.

Ashley gave her a tight embrace. Ilang segundo pa bago niya ito niyakap pabalik.
She felt nervous at the sight of her suitcase.

Ibig sabihin dito ito tutuloy?

"Why? Natulala ka na. Miss me?" Ashley asked smiling. Marunong itong magtagalog.
She has Filipino blood. Kaya madali silang naging close dati dahil sila ang madalas
nagkakaintindihan.

Pumasok na ito sa unit hila-hila ang suitcase nito. She shut the door closed.
"How are you?" Were the only words she managed to say. She can't bring herself to
smile. Sobrang lakas ng kabog sa dibdib niya. She was the last person she wished to
appear at her doorstep.

"Fine. But I really miss you." Ngumiti ulit ito at sumulyap sa kanya.

"What's wrong?" Ashley asked looking at her.

She inhaled deeply. Pero mas lalong lumakas ang kaba niya nang tumunog ulit ang
doorbell.

Ayaw niya sanang buksan ang pinto pero nagtatanong ang mukha ng babaeng kaharap.

She stepped towards the door. Alam niyang si Vance ang nasa labas.

The time she dreaded for finally came. She couldn't imagine the sight of Ashley and
Vance meeting face to face.

Sinubukan niyang alisin ang ganitong eksena sa utak niya habang nag-eenjoy kasama
si Vance pero wala talagang lihim na 'di nabubunyag, walang kalokohan ang hindi
natitigil, at mas lalong walang kasalanang hindi pinagbabayaran.

"Hi sweetheart! Happy birthday!" Vance greeted kissing her forehead. Pinamulahan
siya sa isiping nakamasid lang si Ashley sa kanila.

She took the bouquet of flowers from Vance's hand.

Nakita niya itong natigilan nang makita si Ashley sa loob ng unit niya. Nakititig
din ang isa sa binata.

The atmosphere suddenly felt awkward and dreadful. Kung puwede lang siyang maglaho
ngayon gagawin niya.
"Vance, this is Ashley." Pagpapakilala niya. Pinilit niyang itago ang panginginig
ng boses.

Ashley smirked. Her deep set eyes became restless. Nagpalipat-lipat ito sa kanya at
sa binatang kaharap.

Vance was the one who extended his hand for a handshake.

"Vance Luanne Filan, Thea's boyfriend." He muttered. Ashley glanced at her with a
grim expression but she managed to shake Vance's hand for a second.

"I didn't know you got a visitor." Bulong ni Vance sa kanya. Hinapit siya nito sa
baywang at hinalikan sa sentido.

"Yeah." She answered. She can't even manage to fake a smile.

"Nagluto daw si Thea. Let's devour her recipe." Aya ni Vance kay Ashley. The girl
had that grim look on him.

Hindi niya alam kung paano paaalisin ang isa sa mga ito at kung sino ba sa dalawa
ang gusto niyang umalis muna. They shouldn't be in one room.

Tahimik silang umupo sa hapag.

She added another plate for Ashley.

She usually sits beside Vance but for today she sat on the edge. Six seaters kasi
ang dining table niya, tig-isa sa kabisera at tag-dalawa naman sa magkabilang side.
It was intended for her friends, kaya gano'n kalaki.
"You hate cooking. Are you sure you cooked these?" Taas kilay na tanong ni Ashley
sa kanya. Pailalim nitong inismiran si Vance. She didn't know if Vance saw it.

"She's learning it

for me. I guess." Vance answered smiling proudly. She wished Vance didn't answer.
Nakita niya kasi ang pagtagis ng bagang ni Ashley.

Vance took some food and put it on his plate. Kumuha din si Ashley ng pagkain.
Hindi siya makagalaw sa kinauupan. Her muscles are tensing.

Nagpalipat-lipat lang ang tingin niya sa dalawa at pinapakiramdaman ang mga ito.
Her soul is not at peace knowing that they are seated in one room.

"I guess you already know how it tastes kaya ayaw mong kumuha." Tudyo ni Vance.
Kinintadatan pa siya nito. Saka lang siya napangiti. He put rice on her plate.

"The carrots are still raw and it's too salty." Komento ni Ashley habang nginguya
ang pagkain.

Vance looked at Ashley. Seeing their eyes meet make her shiver. It was Vance who
averted his gaze. Gusto niyang pagsabihan si Ashley pero hindi niya magawa.

Bumaling sa kanya ang nobyo.

"It's fine, sweetheart. I even eat raw carrots and I like salty foods." He took a
spoonful of the chicken afritada.

"Bakit rabbit ka ba?" sarkastikong tanong ni Ashley. Natigilan si Vance.

"She's just kidding." Singit niya nang makitang parang napikon ang nobyo.

"Thea said I had the perfect set of teeth. So I guess not." Natatawa namang sagot
ng binata.
Ashley grimaced. Mabuti na lang at hindi na ito nagsalita pa. Natahimik na sila
pagkatapos noon at napipilitang kumain.

For Thea, it was the most excruciating birthday dinner in her life. Ramdam niya ang
tension sa pagitan nilang tatlo.

"Is she staying here tonight?"

Vance whispered when she was fixing the table. Tinulungan siya nito. Ashley is
standing at the kitchen counter looking at them. Hindi sila nito nilulubayan ng
tingin. Napansin din yata ni Vance iyon.

"I guess so." Kinakabahan niyang tugon sa binata.

"Then I guess there's no birthday treat for you tonight, sweetheart." He gently
pinched her nose and kissed her forehead.

Napatikhim si Ashley sa ginawa ng nobyo niya.

Vance's jaw tensed. Ramdam niyang nagpipigil ito ng inis sa inaakto ni Ashley. She
held his arm para kumalma ito.

"Umuwi ka na lang kaya muna." She tried to make it sound so casual.

Vance stared at her with a creased forehead.

She felt nervous at the kind of stare he's giving her.

Nakahinga lang siya ng maluwag nang ngumiti ito ng tipid at tumango.

Inakbayan siya nito nang ihatid niya ito hanggang sa labas ng pinto.

"Are you sure you are friends with her?" Tanong ni Vance nang nasa labas na sila.

"She's actually one of the nicest persons I've met." She replied.

Napatango naman ang binata at hindi na muling nagkomento pa.

"I had plans for this night but I guess I have to postpone it." Malungkot nitong
hayag. Nakonsensya siya sa sinabi nito. But she had no other choice. One of the two
must be out in a room or they will explode any moment.

"I love you. Keep that in mind, okay?" Vance muttered cupping her face. Humawak
siya sa kamay nito nang dumampi ang labi nito sa labi niya. It was a soft chaste
kiss.

Natigilan sila pareho

nang bumukas ang pinto at iniluwa no'n si Ashley. She deliberately leaned on the
door and looked at them.

"I'm going." Paalam naman ng binata at binitawan siya.

"Bye, Ashley." Vance smiled at her but Ashley didn't say or do anything. Matiim
lang itong tumingin sa binata.

"Ash..." Sumunod siya nang pumasok ito ng unit.

Marahas itong nameywang sa harap niya at tumingin sa kanya ng diretso. Nagbaba siya
ng tingin. Hindi niya kayang salubungin ang mga titig nito.

Her bones chilled at the sight of her angry face.

"Vance Luanne your boyfriend?" tiim-bagang nitong tanong. She could feel pain and
resentment in her voice.

"I'm sorry, Ash." She went near her to give her a hug but Ashley brushed her arms
off her.

Naglandas ang luha nito sa pisngi na marahas nitong pinunas. She wanted so much to
apologize, hug her and make her feel better but looking at her reaction scared her.

Wala siyang nagawa nang bigla na lang itong lumabas ng unit niya.

Her knees were shaking she had to sit down. Her eyes started watering. She knows
how much Ashley is hurt.

Ano ba kasi 'tong gulong pinasok niya?

_________

Hindi niya alam kung ilang oras siyang nakaupo at tahimik na umiiyak. Her eyes
can't stop crying remembering how Ashley reacted. She exactly knew how much it
hurts her.

She wiped her tears when she heard the buzzer.

Mabigat ang katawang tinungo niya ang pinto.

Her eyes welled-up seeing Ashley.

She came back but she's too drunk to walk straight. Inalalayan niya ito.

"You are so unfair!" saad nito habang pinapalis ang kamay niya.

"I can explain." Naiiyak niyang saad rito pero lasing na lasing talaga ito.

"You have no idea how much this hurts!" Ashley said wiping her own tears. Ramdam
niya ang kirot sa pagbitaw nito ng salita.

She's too drunk to understand reason.

"Vance Luanne! Bullshit!" Pumipikit-pikit na ang mga mata nito. Hindi niya sigurado
kung dahil sa kalasingan o dahil sa labis na pag-iyak.

Tuluy-tuloy itong naglakad patungong kuwarto at bumulagta ng higa sa kama.

She stared at her. Nakatulog na agad ito sa kalasingan. The last droplet of her
tears fell on the sheet.

Hindi niya napigilang mapaiyak ulit.

Her shoulders are shaking as she stared at her beautiful face.

Napalunok siya ng ilang beses para tanggalin ang pagbara sa lalamunan pero mas lalo
lang siyang naiyak.

Ashley is right.

She is so unfair!

What she did is so wrong.

=================

31. Cold

You can't go f*ck people and live like there is no karma.

Papunta na sana si Vance sa condo ni Thea para sunduin ito pero nagtext ang dalaga
na malapit na ng opisina.

His forehead creased.

There is something about the situation that bothers him. Ngayon na lang kasi ulit
siya inunahan ni Thea na pumasok ng opisina. She usually waits for him to fetch
her.
He can't help but think about Thea's friend.

Ayaw ba nitong magpang-abot sila ng kaibigan nito?

Ashley.

There is something mysterious about that girl. Iba kasi ang mga tinging ipinupukol
nito sa kanya kagabi. He's not stupid not to feel her hatred against him. Iniisip
nga niya kung may kasalanan ba siya sa babae.

Did he bed her once?

Kasi kung sakaling nakilala niya ito bago sila nagkamabutihan ni Thea malamang
nakuha na rin niya ito. She's a beauty in all aspects. Maliban lang sa ipinakita
nitong ugali kagabi.

BUT no...he may tend to forget girls' names after bedding them but he never forgets
their faces.

Kapag nakita niya ang babae ilang beses mang magpalit ng pangalan (na wala siyang
pakialam), makikilala niya pa rin ito. Kaya nga hindi siya nag-uulit ng babae dati.

Thea's cousin, though he doesn't remember her name, he is sure he bedded her
before. He just preferred to be vague when Thea introduced her so as not to create
admonition. Kilala niya kasi si Thea. Galit na galit ito sa mga babaeng dumaan sa
kamay niya.

He can't blame her.

But it's part of the past. Pinagsisihan na niya iyon.

That Ashley...He is sure it is his first time to meet her. Kaya palaisipan sa kanya
ang ipinakita nitong ugali.

O baka naramdaman lang din nito ang pagkainis niya nang makitang may ibang tao sa
loob ng condo ng girlfriend niya? Kaya ganon na lang din ang ipinakita nitong
ugali.

Girls have that attitude to overreact towards their friend's boyfriend. Pakiramdam
yata ay inaagaw ang kaibigan nila.

He shrugged those thoughts off. It's not something that should bother him much.

Dumaan siya ng flowershop para bumili ng bulaklak bago nagtungo ng opisina.

Arnie reminded him of his whole day meeting before he went inside the office.
Thea is staring at the monitor when he entered. Sobrang naka-focus yata ito kaya
hindi siya napansing pumasok.

She was always like that when they were in high school and college. Lagi itong
nahuhuling lumabas ng laboratory kapag may experiment.

Whenever he comes out from his space, hindi siya nito napapansin. He even needs to
walk in front of the demo table for her to notice him.

Madalas niyang titigan ang mga mata ng dalaga. Mukha kasing nang-aakit lagi. He's
not satisfied staring at her without removing his nerdy glasses.

He smiled as he remembered the reason why he's no longer wearing it.

Props lang naman kasi 'yon dati. Wala kasing tiwala sa galing niya ang mga ka-
triplets kaya nagsusuot siya para magmukhang genius. Then, it became part of his
daily outfit.

It also became his barrier from women. Para hindi sila ma-inlove, lalo na't wala
naman siyang

balak magseryoso sa mga ito.

It was his dad's fault. Bata pa lang kasi siya binibiro na siya ng ama na huwag
masyadong ipakita ng berdeng mata dahil baka maraming babaeng ma-inlove. It was
always his joke.

Ngayon hindi na niya kailangang suotin ang eyeglasses. His eyes are already glued
on Thea Kimberly. Ito na lang ang gusto niyang tingnan at titigan at kahit ma-
inlove pa ito sa kanya wala siyang pakialam. Wala naman kasi siyang balak na saktan
o iwan ang girlfriend.

Maybe she had this innate power over him. Habang tumatagal kasi mas lalo siyang
nai-inlove. His day would never be complete without the thought of her. He feels
like having her around everyday. Mabuti na nga lang at magkasama sila ng opisina.

He moved towards her.

"Hardworking girlfriend." He uttered while putting the flowers on Thea's table.

Napakunot-noo siya nang halos mapatayo ito sa gulat.

"Hey, are you okay?" Natatawa siyang umikot para daluhan ito. Agad niya itong
hinila payakap.

Well, he really just wants to hug her. May plano kasi siya kagabi para sa birthday
nito pero hindi natuloy dahil sa kaibigan nito.

"Sorry, naka-focus kasi ako sa ginagawa ko." Nahihiya nitong saad.

He looked at her eyes. There is something in there that he can not pinpoint. Binawi
nito ang tingin at uupo na sana pero mabilis niya itong hinila pabalik sa bisig.

"Can I hug you first? I missed you." He mumbled in her ear. Ngumiti lang ito ng
tipid.

"Napuyat ka ba kagabi?" tanong niya rito. He cupped her face and stared at her
seductively elliptical

eyes. Halata kasi ang eyebags nito kahit na natatakpan ng makeup.

"A little." Tugon nito. Hinawakan nito ang magkabilang braso niya at marahang
tinanggal.

He wanted so much to kiss her pero pinigilan na lamang niya ang sarili. Mukhang
wala ito sa mood.

He inhaled deeply to calm himself.

"Your friend Ashley. Did she already leave?" tanong niya rito.

Thea averted her gaze.

"S-she's still at my place." Bumalik ito sa pagkakaupo at humarap ulit sa macbook.

"Are you that close to her?" Umikot siya papunta sa harap ng table nito. He stared
at his girlfriend.

Ashley must be that closed for Thea to leave the girl at her place.

"Yes." Sumulyap lang ito saglit nang sumagot.

"Kailan mo pa siya naging kaibigan?" tanong niya ulit. He can't help but be curious
about Ashley. Well, anything about his girlfriend must be his concern.

"Matagal na rin."

That was too vague for his curiousity to fade.

"Saan mo siya nakilala?" Tanong niya ulit rito.

Thea stared at him. Her lips are pursed. Mukha itong nagpipigil. Wala talaga ito sa
mood.

He inhaled deeply.

Why does he need to inherit his mom's nosy attitude?

Baka tuluyan nang magalit ang girlfriend. Iba pa naman ito magalit. Kaya madalas
tumatahimik na lang siya kapag nakikita niyang nag-uumpisa itong mapikon.

He thought she wouldn't answer his question but she inhaled deeply and opened her
mouth to speak.

"We worked together in New Jersey for five years. She's a chemist."

Napatango na lang siya sa sagot

ni Thea. Ayaw na niyang magtanong pa. He'll just reserve it some other time.

He looked at his watch. Limang minuto na lang mag-uumpisa na ang board meeting
niya.
He stared at Thea. Bumalik na ulit ang tingin nito sa ginagawa.

"Sweetheart, I have different meetings the whole day." Paalam niya rito. Tumingin
naman ito sa kanya saka tumango.

"I already instructed Arnie. Magpapa-deliver siya mamaya ng lunch niyo. Dito na
kayo kumain." Wika niya sa dalaga.

Ngumiti naman ito ng tipid.

"Thanks." She muttered staring at him.

He smiled. She really has that power to make his heart beats faster than the usual
everytime she looks at him. And it always feels good.

"So, where's my good luck kiss." Inilapit niya ang mukha sa girlfriend. Thea didn't
move. She only stared at his lips and swallowed hard.

"I'm waiting..." he teased.

She moved closer and gave him a peck on the cheek.

He blinked at the contact. That was not what he expected.

"A kiss on the cheek really?" he smiled. Hinawakan niya ang ulo nito at inilapit sa
mukha. He kissed her hard.

Thea groaned when he released her. Kinindatan na lamang niya ito bago nagmadaling
umalis sa harap nito.

______

Vance is playing with the pen as he listens to his dad. Lahat silang magkakapatid
ay nasa board meeting maliban kay Leandrei na nasa honeymoon pa. There are also
some important investors around the conference table.

Hindi siya mapakali. Malapit nang mag-alas singko. Patingin-tingin

siya sa relo. Kanina pa niya gustong umalis.

Ilang oras na niyang hindi nakikita ang nobya. He suddenly misses her. Kung puwede
nga lang na tangan-tangan niya ito kahit sa mga meetings gagawin niya.
Hindi niya alam kung bakit may nararamdaman siyang pangamba. Hindi pa rin kasi nito
sinasabing mahal siya. Hindi rin mawala sa isip niya ang hindi nito pagtugon sa
halik niya kaninang umaga.

Mabilis siyang tumayo nang mag-adjourn ang ama.

"I have to leave. May pupuntahan pa kasi ako." Agad niyang paalam sa mga kapatid at
nagmadali nang lumabas.

Arnie told her that Thea already went out. Mabilis niya itong hinabol sa basement
parking. Mabuti na lang nakita niyang binubuksan pa lamang nito ang sasakyan.

"Hey girlfriend," he called out. His smile automatically appeared at the sight of
her. Napatingin naman ito. Nabigla yata ito dahil sa lakas ng boses niya mukha kasi
itong nagulat.

He immediately went to her side.

"Hatid na kita." Inakbayan niya ito at hinalikan sa tuktok.

Dahan-dahan naman nitong pinalis ang braso niya. Ayaw niyang magdamdam sa ginawa
nito. Maliit na bagay lang naman kasi.

"Wala ka pa rin sa mood?" Biro niya rito. He pinched her nose lightly. Agad naman
nitong tinabig ang kamay niya.

"Why? Is there any problem?" He asked. Thea's acting weird.

"Nothing. Gusto ko lang umuwi at magpahinga." Saad naman nito.

"Pagod ka?" Tiningnan niya ito ng mataman. Mukha nga itong stressed.

"Medyo." She lazily replied.

"Doon ka na lang sa kotse ko sumakay. Hatid na kita para hindi ka mas lalong
mapagod." Suhestiyon niya.

"Huwag na. Baka kasi gamitin namin ni Ashley 'tong kotse ko mamaya."

She said she's tired anad now she's saying that she'll go out with her friend.
Gusto niyang magreklamo pero dahil mukha talaga itong pagod napatango na lang siya.

"So does that mean we're not seeing each other tonight?" Tanong niya sa dalaga.
Ilang oras silang hindi nagkita kanina. He's not used to it.

Thea nodded without any word.

"Paano na 'yong nakahandang birthday gift ko sa 'yo?" He tried to lure her into
changing her mind.

"Saka na lang siguro." Tugon naman nito.

"Siguro? Hindi sigurado?"

Saglit siyang natigilan nang makita ang yamot sa mga mata nito dahil sa tanong
niya.

"Sorry. Kiss mo na lang ako para okay na." Natatawa niyang kindat sa dalaga. Ayaw
niya itong magalit ng tuluyan.

Thea stared at him for a moment. He smiled when she tiptoed.

BUT instead of kissing his lips, Thea kissed his cheek.

Nagsalubong ang kilay niya.

"I want a proper kiss from my hot and sexy girlfriend." Hinapit niya ito sa
baywang. He thought she wouldn't complain just like how it always happens but she
wrestled against his arm.

Nagtataka niya itong pinakawalan. Kahit hindi niya aminin sa sarili nasaktan siya
sa inakto ng girlfriend.

"Vance, not now, please." She said before going inside her car.

Pinanood na lamang niya ito habang papaalis ang sasakyan.

He blinked his eyes and inhaled deeply.

He felt a twinge of pain with what Thea did.

=================

Author's Note

Hindi po ito story part. Gusto ko lang sagutin ang lahat ng katanungan at reactions
niyo.

I've read all the comments....

Is this the part where I should give a lecture about gender awareness, equality and
sensitivity?

There were some of you who said that they have nothing against the LGBTQs.
However they can not swallow the thought that maybe just maybe Thea was/is in a
relationship with Ashley, whom Vance describes as a beauty in all aspect.

That's HIPOCRISY dear... hindi ka nga against sa gender preference ng isang tao
pero iniisip mo na huwag naman sanang romantic ang namamagitan sa dalawang babae...

Some of you may say na sa religious aspect kasi ang babae ay para sa lalaki kaya
hindi matatanggap if ever na magkarelasyon ang dalawa. Well, that is if that's the
story's turn out.

Now, that's hipocrisy at its finest.

Kinilig ka nga no'ng binigay ni Thea 'yong virginity niya kay Vance outside of
marriage.

Na-inlove ka nga kay Vance na nangjujugjug ng iba't-ibang babae, eh. Tapos sina
Ashley at Thea, hindi mo matanggap.

Double standard lang?

Pareho lang 'yong kasalanan sa religious aspect. And yes in my religion they say
that "For the payment of sin is death."

Kaya ibalik ang death penalty!

Hehe...Joke lang.

Ayoko no'n marami kasing inosente ang nahahatulan, 'yong mga napagbibintangan lang.

So ano na? Hehe.

Let's make the definitions clear...

Lesbian (girl who likes girl)

Gay (boy who likes boy)

Bisexuals (those who doesn't mind engaging in a relationship with both sexes as
long as they feel the love and belongingness that their hearts yearn)

Transgender (boy/girl who transcends into opposite of his/her physical makeup)

Queer (gay/lesbian who prefers to hid it from everyone in fear of being adjudged or
among all other reasons)

So, if Thea is in a relationship with Ashley, she is not a lesbian, okay? Kasi
pumatol siya kay Vance. She's a bisexual in that case. Stop tagging her as tibo,
lesbo, or tomboy.

Well then if that's the case... are you going to judge her? or Ashley? for that
matter...

Wow ha? Nahiya naman daw po ang LGBTQ community...

Saan naman ang lugar nila sa mundo niyong mga straight? Hahaha!
So may relasyon nga ba ang dalawang babae?

O baka naman si Vance ang bisexual? o queer?

Ewan. Hahaha!

Baka lang gusto niyong balikan ang special chapter ng The Ignored Wife. Siya yata
kasi ang leader na nagsabi ng quack-quack. Hehehe!

P.S. I aim to defy all conventions.

If you are not mature enough to accept all the harsh realities of life, you are
free to stop reading and lose all the lessons that you might get.

I am not forcing anyone to read and leave bad comments later.

Parang kay Vander Lewis lang dati. Nagagalit sila kay Aubrey pero di nila magawang
magalit kahit adik-adik siya at namimilit mang-ano. Haha!

Leave it,

jazlykdat (just like that)

=================
32. Confusion

Things may get confusing sometimes but that's only because we are either blinded or
being blinded from the truth.

Vance went home to think but his room is too silent it kills. Lumabas siya at
nagpunta na lang sa isang bar.

But the bar is too noisy for him to think either. Lumipat siya sa isa pang bar na
mas mahina ang tugtog ng banda.

There he silently drank as he hears the music from the band.

He's dismissing all the girls that approaches and giving him hints. Nakayuko na
lang siya sa baso at 'di na muling tumingin sa paligid.

He silently drinks as he hears the band saying something. Parang may ibang boses na
kumanta pero hindi siya tumingin. He's too submerged with what he's thinking.

Thea's being cold and he is sure it has something to do with her friend.

Why can't you hold me in the street?

Why can't I kiss you on the dancefloor?

Oh I wish that it could be like that...

Why can't we be like that?

Cause I'm yours...

The girl singing has a nice voice pero parang may katunog ito na hindi niya gustong
isipin.

He continued drinking until the singing stops.

"That song is for the hot and beautiful birthday girl...She's there."

Natigilan siya pagkarinig sa boses nang kumanta. Agad siyang napatingin rito.

He was right. It was Thea's friend, Ashley.

Pagtingin niya sa table na itinuro nito, nakita niya ang anim

pang kaibigan ni Thea noong college. Ashley went back to their table.

He felt another twinge of pain.

If this was Thea's treat to her friends, why didn't she tell him?

Baka girls night out lang.

Baka pa-birthday nila.

BUT what about his birthday present? Was she not curious?

He inhaled deeply and drank his shot. Naparami na yata siya ng nainom. Masyado na
siyang ma-drama.
"Hi girls!" He greeted when he approached their table.

"Vance." It was Marjorie who first reacted when they turn their gazes at him.
Napansin niya ang pagsulyap nito kay Thea at Ashley. 'Yong iba ay nakatingin lang
sa kanya.

"Marjorie, It's nice to see you again." He replied with a smile. Ngumiti naman ito.

Binati niya ang lahat ng kaibigan ni Thea bago nginitian ang nobya na hindi
nagsasalita sa upuan.

"May I excuse my girlfriend?" he asked smiling at her friends.

"Thea, boyfriend mo." Marjorie nudged. Napakurap pa ito bago tuluyang tumayo.

"Saglit lang." Paalam nito pero kay Ashley lang naman sumulyap.

He automatically hold her hand and guided her. Tahimik itong sumunod sa kanya.
Pansin niyang nanlalamig ang kamay nito.

_____

"I thought you're tired. Are you sure you're okay now?" nakangiti niyang baling
rito nang makalabas sila.

Thea only nodded. Binawi nito ang kamay na hawak niya. He inhaled deeply. He's not
suppose to feel bad at that little thing.
"So ready ka na ba sa gift ko?" tanong niya rito. Naglakad

siya papunta sa nakaparadang sasakyan pero napatigil din nang makitang hindi ito
humakbang mula sa kinatatayuan.

"Ngayon na ba talaga? I am with my friends hindi ko sila puwedeng iwan." Saad ng

dalaga nang humarap siya rito.

"Your friends? Okay." Napapatango niyang saad. His starting to get pissed being
ignored since this morning.

"Nakalimutan mo na yatang boyfriend mo ako?" tanong niya sa dalaga.

Thea looked at him with a creased forehead. Bahagya siyang kinabahan.

"I was just kidding." Bawi niya sa naging tanong.

"Walang babaeng makakalimot sa guwapo kong mukha." Biro niya rito. He went near her
and hugged her.

"Conceited ka talaga." Sambit nito bago kumalas sa yakap niya. He only chuckled at
her reaction.

"So can I join you and your friends?" He asked.

Yamot na tumingin ang dalaga sa kanya.

"Vance, we are all girls." Saad nito at tumalikod na.

"So? Babantayan ko kayo para walang manggugulo sa inyo." Sumunod siya kay Thea.
Inis naman itong tumigil at hinarap siya.

"Umuwi ka na." Madiin nitong saad bago ulit tumalikod. He inhaled deeply.
Why is she so irritated?

He was about to follow what Thea said but he saw Ashley standing by the entrance.

Hinintay nitong makalapit si Thea saka ito sinabayan papasok ng bar.

There is something mysterious and antagonizing about the girl but he can't bring
himself to fully hate her.

Instead

of turning away, he followed Thea. Malapit na ang mga ito sa may table nang
maabutan niya. He immediately wrapped his arm around Thea's waist.

He waited for her disagreement but she didn't complain.

Nakatingin ang mga kaibigan nito sa kanila. He could again feel Ashley's dagger
looks on him.

Marjorie and Rose looked at him so he smiled.

"I'm here to guard you, girls." He said smiling. Napatango lang naman ang dalawa.
Lumipat si Candice sa tabi ng mga ito.

The table they chose is round. There are two semi-circle three-seater couches
facing each other. Sa pagitan ng mga ito ay tig-isang single couch sa magkabilang
side. Shien and Hannah were on the single couches. Leah squeezed herself to the
three-seater couch. Apat na sila doon.

The three of them sat on the vacant three-seater couch. Thea is at the middle. He
squeezed her towards his side giving space between her and Ashley.

There was a few moment of silence.

Nahiya yatang magkuwentuhan ang mga ito dahil sa presensya niya kaya siya na ang
unang nagsalita. Kinumusta niya ang buhay-buhay ng mga ito hanggang sa tuloy-tuloy
na ang kuwentuhan.

Hindi niya mapigilang mapasulyap sa katabi ng nobya. Kanina pa ito hindi

nagsasalita at inom lang ng inom. Siguradong ito ang unang malalasing.

Hindi mawala-wala ang talim ng titig nito hindi lang sa kanya kundi pati sa basong
hawak. Nang hindi ito nakapagpigil ay tumayo na lang basta.

Tatayo din sana si Thea pero pinigilan niya ito.

"Is she okay? May problema yata siya." Tanong niya sa dalaga. He hates to think
that the girl is jealous of him.

Konti na lang

kasi iisipin na niyang may gusto ito kay Thea. BUT she's so hot to be a lesbian or
something like it. Ang sexy nga ng suot nitong damit. Among the girls around him,
she's a headturner. Next to Thea, of course.

Umupo si Ashley sa bar counter at umorder ng alak. He saw a guy approached her.

Biglang napatayo ang babaeng katabi niya.

She heard Marjorie faking a cough. Napatingin siya sa girlfriend. Her eyes are
glued on Ashley.

Napailing siya.

There is something going on. He could feel it in his skin.

"Let me handle it." Saad niya kay Thea at inunahan ito sa paglapit sa dalagang
lango sa alak.
Naiinis siya sa atensyong ibinibigay dito ng girlfriend niya pero hindi niya pa rin
magawang mainis rito ng tuluyan.

"Hey man, get away from her." He gave the man a warning look. Hinawakan na kasi
nito ang langong dalaga sa braso. The man looked at him for a moment. Mukhang ayaw
pang magpaawat.

He forcibly took the man's hand away from Ashley's arm. The girl looked at him with
a smirk.

"Relax, dude!" Bawi naman ng lalaki bago nagmadaling umalis.

Tumayo si Ashley pero agad itong sumuray. He immediately held her pero mabilis
nitong tinabig ang kamay niya.

"Get away from me FILAN!" Sambit nito.

Agad namang lumapit si Thea at ito na ang umalalay sa dalaga. Agad na yumakap si
Ashley sa kaibigan.

He was left staring at the two woman making their way to the table.

Ashley.

Why did he feel that at the slight touch of her?

It was totally different.

Sa isang babae lang niya nararamdaman ang gano'n sa tuwing niyayakap niya ito.
Meet Ashley...

=================

33. Vague Answers, Strong Impact

"Men are not the be-all and end-all of a woman's life."

Vance woke up late. Panay ang tawag niya sa phone nito habang papunta ng opisina
pero laging nagre-redirect sa voicemail.

He inhaled deeply.

Maybe she had a hangover last night. Pero hindi naman ito masyadong uminom. Puro
light drinks nga lang ang inoorder nito.

Maybe she's already at the office at naka-silent mode ulit ang phone.

Dumaan na lamang siya ulit sa flowershop.

___

There's this nervousness he's trying to kill and suppress when Arnie told him that
Thea hasn't arrived yet. Malapit nang mag-lunch break. Hindi ito na-late ni minsan
pagpasok. If she's absent, she would have sent him a message.

He tried calling her again but there was no answer.

Pumunta na lang siya sa nakatakdang lunch meeting. If Thea wouldn't appear this
afternoon, he would have to go to her place.

Hindi puwede ang ganito. It kills him.

___

He immediately went back to his office after the meeting.

"Sir, dumaan po si Engineer kanina, may mga kinuhang gamit." Napalingon siya sa
sekretaryang nakasunod sa kanya.

Arnie had that look on her face that he couldn't guess. It made him nervous.

"Iniwan po ito para sa inyo"

For the first time in his life, his knees shook as he stared at the white envelope.
He hesitated to accept it.

It took few moments before he earned the courage to get it.

Arnie walked towards the door after

handing it to him. Umupo naman siya sa swivel chair.

"Arnie wait." He uttered before she's about to go out.

"Sir?" baling naman agad ng sekretarya.

He inhaled deeply.

"May kasama ba siyang pumunta?" aniya sa sekretarya.

"Meron po. 'Yong babae pong green ang mga mata." Tugon nito.

Her answer made him swallow hard. Mas lalo siyang kinabahan.
"Okay." He said dismissing Arnie. Lumabas naman ito.

He stared at the envelope for quite some time.

Why is he having second thoughts opening it?

Well, he has a hint what it contains. That is what's keeping him from opening it.

He smirked at himself. Para siyang hindi lalaki.

Ano bang kinatatakot niya?

Thea might've not said she loves him but with how she treated him he's pretty sure
she can't just shun him away easily.

It's just a fucking envelope. He held it and immediately opened.

His breathing hitched at the word resignation.

What the hell is happening?

Ilang beses niyang binasa at tiningnan ang pirma sa baba ng sulat. It was really
Thea's signature.

He was about to stand up when he heard the message tone of his phone.

From Thea Sweetheart:

Let's meet tonight.

He swallowed hard. The next message from her was about the time and place where
they'd meet.

Why does it feel like the resignation means she's totally shunning him out of her
life?

Fuck.

That can't be. There must be some explanation.

BUT why does it feel this damn painful?

Ni hindi pa nga lang nito nililinaw ang dahilan ng pag-resign nito, nakararamdam na
siya ng bigat sa kalooban.

Shit.

His fucking eyes are as shit as the situation. Bigla na lang nagtubig.
_________

"Hi sweetheart." He smiled despite the restlessness inside him. He handed her a
bouquet of her favorite flowers. The table is already set. Mukhang nauna talaga ito
at hinintay siya. Hindi masydong matao ang pinili nitong restaurant.

Thea didn't smile. There is a distant look in her eyes. Umupo siya sa kaharap na
upuan. None of them spoke for a couple of seconds. Wala ding gumagalaw sa mga
pagkain sa harap nila.

How could he eat if he's confused and hurt with what's happening?

"About my resignation..." Thea started.

Napalunok siya at huminga ng malalim. He never imagined himself dreaded like this
over a woman's resignation.

Well, it felt like she's also resigning from his life.

SHIT. He blinked twice. Fuck his eyes. It's starting to water.

"I'm out, Vance." She uttered looking straight at him.

"Out from what?" He said trying to calm himself.

"Out from your company." Thea swallowed hard. He doesn't know what to say. Ayaw
niyang tanggapin ang resignation nito.

"Out from your life." She added.

He felt like a bomb exploded inside him.

"That easy?" He asked controlling his emotion.

May ginawa ba siyang mali?

He did everything to make her love him. Wasn't it enough?

Shit lang.

"Sanay

ka naman na kinakalimutan ang mga babae right after bedding them 'di ba?" Thea
asked matter-of-factly.

"I didn't bed you once, Thea! I did-we did it over and over again. And I'd want to
do it for the rest of our lives."
Kahit siya ay nagulat sa emosyong lumabas mula sa sarili.

He's hurt.

Unang beses itong nangyari. He never imagined it could happen.

"I'm going." Thea stood up.

"You can't just go without explanation. You know how much I love you."

Hinawakan niya ang kamay nito.

He loves Thea. She's the only girl outside his family that he yearned to be with
everyday.

Tapos bigla na lang ganito?

Ano bang nagawa niyang mali?

Her eyes were glued on his hand.

"Ano? You really planned to make me fall and then leave? For what?" Sunod-sunod
niyang tanong rito.

Is this his karma for fucking around girls in the past? Ang iwan siya ng babaeng
minamahal niya ng lubusan...

Thea looked at him. He cannot fathom how she feels. Bumalik ito sa pagkakaupo at
tumitig sa kanya ng diretso.

"Hindi ko hawak ang nararamdaman mo, Vance. You can't blame me for what you feel
now that I decided to leave everything behind." Her voice is void of any emotion.

"Why are you leaving all of a sudden? Okay naman tayo 'di ba?"

Thea's lips pursed. Tumingin lang ito sa kanya.

"Was it because of Ashley?" He asked courageously.

Thea swallowed hard. She didn't answer.

Fuck.

Wala na siyang maisip na ibang dahilan.

Thea started getting this cold when that friend of hers appeared.

"Do you have this certain kind of relation with her kaya galit na galit siya sa
presensiya ko?"

Thea didn't say a word. Lumuha lang ito at yumuko.

Why can't she just say no if it his claims weren't true?

Mahirap bang aminin?

"Do you love her?"

"Yes. More than my life." Tumitig ito sa kanya ng diretso

He inhaled deeply, closed his eyes and gathered his breath.

"Eh, ako?" His question came out as a whisper. Parang may bikig sa lalamunan niya.

Tumingala ito at nagkibit-balikat.

Shit!

That reaction sent different kind of emotion and doubts in him.

He didn't say a word. He was left staring at Thea. He saw her wiping her tears. Her
shoulders are shaking.

He wanted so much to wrap her in his arms but he can't move.

What the fuck?

"I'm sorry, Vance. I don't want to hurt her." Thea sobs.

That made his eyes watered but he tried to control it from falling.

"Are you two lovers?" He momentarily closed his eyes upon uttering his question.

"That romantic kind of love?" He murmured.

Thea just stared at him. Walang salita ang lumabas sa bibig nito. There was no
denial nor admission.

"Answer me!" Madiin niyang saad. Nakita niya ang pagkatigagal nito. He regrets
speaking that harsh.

Pero sinalubong nito ang mga titig niya.

"Please just let us live our lives away from you. Ashley needs me more than you
do."

"That's bullshit Thea!" Hindi niya napigilang suntukin ang lamesa.

Putang ina! Sinasabi ba nitong ipinagpapalit siya sa isang babae?

He saw shocked and fear in her lovely face. Napalunok siya. Never did he want to
scare her but his emotion overruled.

"I love her so much that I'd prefer to choose whatever we have than the short span
of time we've been together." She said vaguely. Hindi nito tahasang sinasabi na may
namamagitan nga sa kanilang dalawa pero parang gano'n rin ang ibig sabihin.

It would have been okay if she loved another guy.

Pero bullshit lang! Babae?

"Babae pa rin siya. She can't give you the happiness that men can give." Madiin
niyang saad rito. She looked insulted with what he said but he cared less.

Tumingin ito sa mga mata niya na parang may nasabi siyang hindi katanggap-tanggap.

"And you think only men can give women's happiness?" Thea asked sarcastically.

"That's not what I meant."

"It is what you mean Vance." Madiin nitong wika.

"But sad to say, hindi lang lalaki ang kailangan ng isang babae para sumaya. Don't
talk as if you are the be-all and end-all of a woman's life." Galit nitong wika.

That hurts.

He wanted to turn the table upside down.

BUT before he could even do or say anything he'd regret, he chose to walk out.

He wasn't able to control his fucking eyes from welling up.

Fuck Thea!

Fuck Ashley!

He might've hurt women in the past but the pain Thea bestowed is more than just
karma. If felt like a curse.

Fuck all those women!

Fuck his tears!

=================

34.1 Shedding Some Light- Vance

There will come a time that the happiest moment will become the most dreadful to
remember.
Vance brushed his eyes when the doorbell rings. Nasa pent suite siya ng isa sa mga
hotels nila. Dito siya nagkulong matapos manggaling sa restaurant. He didn't want
anyone to see how vulnerable he is. Pero talagang hindi na niya kaya.

He needs answers. He needs enlightenment.

If only he didn't let his emotion overruled, he would've not walked out.

Hindi naman kasi sinabi ni Thea na sila no'ng Ashley. Hindi rin naman nito sinagot
'yong tanong kung mahal niya ito romantically.

Ayaw niyang isipin na babae ang kaagaw niya rito hangga't hindi nito mismo sinasabi
ng tahasan sa mukha niya.

Parang napaka-imposibleng paniwalaan.

Pero baka nahiya lang itong aminin ng tahasan.

He would've to talk to her again when things get cooler.

"Hey, baby brother." Agad na bati ng ate Vanna niya pagbukas ng pintuan. He gave
her a fake smile.

"I'm no longer a baby. Sa tagal mo yatang hindi naglalagi sa bahay nakalimutan mo

nang lumaki na kami." He tried to mask how he feels with a joke. His sister
chuckled.

"You will always be our baby bunso." She said. Hinawakan pa nito ang magkabilang
pisngi niya at natatawang pinisil.

He felt lighter. His sister maybe tough but she will always be the sweetest among
his siblings. Of course, she's the only sister he got.

Pinalis niya ang kamay ng kapatid saka nagbalik sa bar counter. Sinalinan niya ang
isa pang baso ng whisky.

"So you invited me for a drinking spree?" Nakangisi nitong tanong.

Napangiti

siya. It wasn't fake. He really feels a little okay with her presence.

His sister drinks hard. Kapag nag-iinuman sila ay nakikisali din ito. Dati
pinapagalitan ito ng ina nila pero tinatawanan lang ito lagi ng ate niya at hindi
pinapansin kaya nagsawa na lang itong pagsabihan. Now, their parents never mind.
Kahit makipagsabayan pa ito sa kanila.

"Babae na ngayon ang gusto mong kainuman? Naks. Nagpapakalalaki na si baby Vance."
Natatawa nitong tinampal ang braso niya.

"Ate stop it." He uttered brushing her hand off. Akma na naman kasi itong pipisil
sa pisngi niya. He drank his shot.

"Sus." Sambit naman ni Vanna at tumitig sa kanya.

"May problema ka 'no?" Babae?" Vanna asked with a raised eyebrow.

Napailing naman siya.

Hindi niya alam kung sasabihin ito sa kapatid o hindi. O kung hanggang saan ang
puwede niyang sabihin.

"Hindi ah. I just missed bonding with my only sister."

"Yung totoo?" Vanna eyed him suspiciously.

He chuckled nervously. Malakas ang radar ng kapatid niya at alam niyang

nararamdaman nito.
Why would he call her at the middle of the night for no reason?

"When are you getting married? Baka maunahan kita." Biro na lamang niya.

"Magpapakasal ka na rin?" Vanna asked with a disapproving tone.

Tumawa siya ng pagak. How he wished. Ready na nga siya sa proposal niya noong gabi
ng birthday ni Thea but things suddenly turned different. Hindi siya handa sa
ganitong posibilidad.

"Pauunahin

muna kita. Ikaw ang panganay baka hindi ka na makapag-asawa kapag nauna ako."

"Heh! Jinx!" His sister laughed. Itinungga nito ang alak.

Naiiling na lang din siyang nagsalin ng alak.

"So mag-iinuman lang talaga tayo? Gusto mo tawagan ko rin 'yong dalawa para samahan
tayo." She suggested. She's referring to Liam and Vander. Nasa honeymoon pa kasi si
Leandrei.

Napailing siya.

"Nope, I miss bonding with my ate." Tugon niya rito. His sister chuckled but didn't
say a word.

They silently drank for quite some time before he spoke.

"Ate bakit hindi ka pa kinakasal hanggang ngayon?" Tanong niya rito.

"Shut up!"
Natahimik siya ng ilang saglit. Nag-iisip kung paano bubuksan ang usapan.

"I always see you as 'astig' ever since. Have you ever liked a woman before?"

He inhaled deeply.

"Where is this leading? Papaaminin mo ba ako sa totoong dahilan kung bakit hindi pa
ako nag-aasawa?"

Tiningnan siya ng kapatid ng mataman.

"O baka naman introduction mo lang yan at aamin ka ng bading, bunso?" Tumawa ito ng
mahina. Vanna always joke around with him. Sanay na siya. Minsan sinasabayan niya.
But he can't bring himself to tease around for now. Masyadong clouded ang puso
niya.

"Maraming babaeng iiyak." Natatawa niyang sambit. Funny because he just cried over
Thea. Halata tuloy na peke ang naging tawa niya.

"Spill it Vance. What do you wanna talk about?"

Vanna asked.

"Wala nga. Gusto lang kitang kasama."

His sister didn't say a word. Hindi siya nito pinilit. Nanahimik lang ito at
sumabay sa pag-inom.

"Ate, puwedeng humiling?" Putol niya sa katahimikan.

"Sure."

"Can I hug you?"

His sister looked at him for a moment and then she smiled.

"Bunso finally needs ate. Halika nga." She opened her arms with a nervous laugh.

Niyakap siya nito ng mahigpit. He inhaled deeply and swallowed hard.

"Tell me what the problem is." She mumbled. Kumalas siya sa pagkakayakap sa
kapatid. Tumitig siya rito.

Nagpunas naman ito ng mata.

"Ate, are you crying?"

"Nope. Ikaw kasi sobrang bading mo." Natatawa nitong saad but her eyes are teary.

"May payakap-yakap ka pang nalalaman. Pati tuloy ako na-bakla na." natatawa nitong
dagdag.

He laughed at his sister's humor. Something is creeping on his mind while his
sister hugs him. BUT he tried to brush off that idea. Sobrang imposible.

They were both silent for a couple of minutes. Alam niyang pinapakiramdaman lang
siya ng ate niya.

"How's your work, ate?" He asked creating another conversation.

"Ayos naman." Vanna nodded and smiled.

"Kapag mayroon kang mga kalaban, what do you usually do to win?"

"Depende." Tugon naman nito. Tumitig ito sa hawak na baso.

"Kung kilala ko na talaga ang kalaban at kung ano ang kahinaan niya, lalabanan ko
ng harapan." Vanna stated. Napatingin

siya sa kapatid.

"Kung hindi ko pa lubusang kilala, I would have to get inside his world to see his
weakness." She added with a sly smile.

"Know thy enemy, you know. Hindi puwedeng sugod lang ng sugod." Tatawa-tawa nitong
dagdag.

It may be a normal conversation for his sister but for Vance, that sounded like a
direct advice.

Itinuloy nila ang kuwentuhan hanggang sa tuluyan na siyang nalasing.

When he woke up his sister is no longer there at the suite. Missing in action na
naman ito, as usual.

His head's throbbing but he can't bring himself to make that special soup he always
do to relieve pain. Naalala na naman kasi niyang ginawan niya si Thea ng gano'n
dati.

He inhaled deeply. Nawala pa ang sakit sa ulo niya parang lumipat ito sa dibdib
niya. It felt like his chest is being strike with Thor's hammer. Naalala niya kasi
ang kaarawan niya.

Funny, the happiest moment became the most dreadful to remember, now that
everything falls apart.

Tangina.
__________

"When I saw you with him, I felt like the world betrayed me." Ashley stated.
Magkaharap silang nakaupo sa dining table sa condo ni Thea.

Nadatnan niya kasi itong nagmumukmok at umiiyak sa harap ng pagkain.

Thea knew it would appear like she really betrayed Ashley.

Nakukonsensiya siya sa dalawa.

Vance was her ultimate crush. She was blinded by the idea that maybe, just maybe,
it's okay to experience being with him just for a while.

For a while... because she knows he's a playboy. Pagsasawaan din siya eventually

ng binata.

PERO hindi niya na-foresee na seseryosohin pala nito ang relasyon nila.

She wanted so much to tell him a while back how sorry she was but she knows it
would never erase the pain in his eyes.

Her eyes watered.

"I sacrificed so much just so you could have your liberty back here tapos pagdating
ko makikita kong nagpapakasaya ka na pala."

Napaluha siya. It was also one of the reasons why she broke up with Vance. Baka
kapag minahal na rin niya ng tuluyan ang binata at nalaman kung ano ang nakaraan
niya ay hindi rin siya matatanggap.

She'd end up wasted.

Ayaw nga rin niyang ipaalam sa magulang ang tungkol sa naging sakripisyo ni Ashley
para sa kanya. They will disown her for sure.

"You were the only family I got since my mom passed away tapos gano'n pa 'yong
makikita ko. AND to a FILAN?" Ashley muttered in between sobs.

"Sobrang unfair no'n para sa akin." Dagdag nito.

Her heart crumbled looking at her tears falling.

"I know it was unfair BUT Vance hasn't something to do with everything that
happened to you, Ash. Hindi ka dapat magalit sa kanya."

Ashley smirked in between tears.

"He's carrying the eyes of the man I hated the most. Worst, he has resemblance to
the woman I curse to die in front of me." She said vindictively. She saw the pain
in her eyes she hasn't seen in quite a while.

Napalunok siya.

"Mabait naman ang mommy at daddy niya."

"Because you don't know them yet. They are the beasts, Thea." Ashley said cutting
her.

"Alam mo bang pinasara

nila lahat ng SRF med lab sa buong mundo nitong huli lang. They used their
influence and money just so your boyfriend's lab won't have any rival."

She's aware of that. Kilala kasi nila ang isa sa may-ari ng med lab na iyon.
"Hindi ba may kaso ang pharma lab kaya naipasara?"

"That's what they said but the Filans are after it. They made up cases against
them."

Hindi siya nakaimik sa sinabi.

"'Yong pamilya ba'ng iyon ang gusto mong makasama?"

"I already broke up with Vance."

Ashley stared at her.

"Nagsisisi ka?"

"Nope. I never wanted to betray the person who hefted me from hell." She mumbled
matter-of-factly.

"If living far away from them would give you peace, I can do that, too. You've
sacrificed a lot for me." She added wiping her tears.

Ashley didn't speak. Tahimik lang itong lumuha habang nakatitig sa kanya.

"But you would have to face them soon, Ash. Confront them for everything they've
done to you. Make them pay if you must. You can't be like this forever."

________

Vance didn't take any medicine to stop the throbbing of his heart. He swears he'll
really make a medicine that would kill pain from a heartbreak.

Know thy enemy.

Vanna's statement made him do some phone calls before going home. He suddenly felt
like staying home.

The sight of their bar counter invited him to another bottle of Scotch.

It was already half-empty when he received the PDF file he needed.

Everything in the document was about Ashley.

Ashley Mijares.

Her mother died when she was five.

She grew up in an exclusive girls school house until the age of 18. Her finances
came from her trust fund.

She had her degree in Chemistry at a prestigious university in New Jersey.

She stayed with Thea in an apartment in New Jersey for five years while they were
working in a pharmaceutical lab.

He inhaled deeply. Ang tagal ng ipinagsama ng dalawa.

His forehead creased when he saw that she had several boyfriends during that 5
years with Thea. May mga pictures pa ang mga ito na kasama ang mga naging
boyfriends nito.
"Who's that?"

He stopped scrolling when his mother appeared behind him.

Pagtingin niya rito ay parang natigilan pa ito. Nakitunghay pala ito sa picture.

"Thea's friends." He stated. Ngumiti lang ito ng alanganin pero hindi nagsalita.

His dad appeared next. Napatingin din ang ina niya rito.

"Why?" His father asked his mom. Bumalik ang tingin ng ina niya sa screen ng phone
niya. His father's eyes also settled on it.

"We have something to discuss right?" baling nito sa ina niya. Napapatango naman
itong humawak sa braso ng ama.

The two went off.

Bumalik ang tingin niya sa picture.

The pictures only mean one thing, there is nothing romantic between Ashley and
Thea.

Nakahinga pa siya ng maluwag.

BUT the last part of the report made his heart beats fast. His jaw tensed in
wariness.

It couldn't be.

Thea isn't capable of doing that.

=================

34.2 Shedding Some Light - Thea

It is hard to stripped down and strut your flaws when you know how judgmental this
society had become.

"Are you really sure with your decision?" Marjorie asked.

Nakitulog si Thea sa bahay ng kaibigan matapos iwan si Ashley sa condo para

makapag-isip. Naikuwento na niya rito ang naging pag-uusap nila ni Vance.

"It's for the best." She said with a heavy heart.

Why does her heart can't seem to agree?

Nakaupo siya sa may kitchen counter at inuubos ang tinimplang kape habang ang
kaibigan ay nagpre-prepare na ng lulutuin para sa lunch. Late na kasi siyang
nagising. Ang anak nito ay kasama naman ng yaya sa loob ng nursery room.

"You don't love Vance that much, do you?" Sumulyap ang kaibigan sa kanya.
Napangiti siya ng mapait sa tanong nito.

"I am not a sixteen year old kid, Marj. Hindi puwedeng puro bugso ng damdamin ang
pinaiiral. There are some things that I need to let go for someone's peace of a
mind." She explained.

"So, hindi?" naiiling nitong sambit.

Hindi nga ba talaga?

"Kasi kung mahal mo siya, kahit gaano pa ka-komplikado ang sitwasyon, siya pa rin
ang pipiliin mong makasama. Damn Ashley and her sentiments." Tumitig ito sa kanya
ng diretso.

Hindi siya nakasagot sa pahayag ng kaibigan.

"Poor guy."

Marjorie's comment made her heart cringed. Naalala niya bigla ang mukha ng binata
nang sinabi niya ritong ayaw na niya.

Parang ngayon lang nag-sink in lahat ng sakit na nakita niya sa mga mata nito
kagabi. She bit her lips to stop herself from crying but her eyes still watered.

She wiped her eyes remembering his reaction.

She doesn't want to hurt him but the situation's too complicated.

If she choses him, Ashley would surely be hurt as hell. Ashley was deprived of a
family since she was five. Dala-dala nito ang lahat ng sakit at pag-iisa habang
tumatanda.
When they met, Ashley said she found a sister. She was truly been a sister to her.
Nagawa nitong isangkalan ang sarili para sa kanya.

She swallowed hard as she remembered what happened.

She doesn't think Vance would still love her if he'd learned the truth about her.

Iyon din ang isang dahilan kaya pinili niyang talikuran ang binata.

"Honestly, when you admitted that you were dating him I had doubts." Marjorie
stated. Napatitig siya kaibigan na patuloy sa ginagawa at napapasulyap lang sa
kanya.

"Kaya lang noong binantayan niya tayo sa bar, naisip ko, mukhang mahal ka naman
niya talaga." Her friend added.

Her heart all the more cringed hearing Marjorie's opinion.

"We all know that he's a quiet guy but he did his best to blend in with us. Kapag
ang lalaki nag-effort na kaibiganin ang mga kaibigan ng girlfriend niya, seryoso
'yon."

"Why are you saying that?"

"Think about it, Thea. Baka naman pinapakawalan mo ang isang magandang regalo sa
'yo ng tadhana." Tugon ni Marjorie.

Napangiti siya ng mapait.

Paano ba niya sasabihin sa kaharap na kaibigan na hawak ni Ashley ang pinakatatago

niya? That she can't go against her because it might ruin her family and everything
she worked for all those years.

"Alam mo ba kung bakit namatay sina Romeo at Juliet?" tanong niya sa kaibigan.
Nahihiwagaan naman itong tumingin sa kanya at nagkibit-balikat.

"Kasi ipinipilit nila ang isang bagay na hindi naman dapat. They weren't meant to
be." She said inhaling deeply.

"Sobrang kumplikado ng sitwasyon kaya kinailangan nilang mamatay sa kuwento."

Dagdag niya.

Marjorie chuckled softly at her metaphor. It actually sounded ironic.

"You're wrong dear. Paraan 'yon ng author para ipakita na puwede pang maayos ang
hidwaan ng mga pamilya nila." Tugon nito.

"Are you saying that we must die to restore things in order?" She asked with a
raised eyebrow.

"I am saying that your life isn't Shakespeare's novel or anybody else's. It's
yours." Her friend stated.

Marjorie stared at her before opening her mouth to speak again.

"You call the shots. You choose your own ending." Dagdag nito.

"So?" Napapalunok niyang tanong.

"Is this how you'd want your story with Vance end? You being so afraid to open up
and him being dished out?" Diretso nitong tanong.

She inhaled deeply. Napayuko siya at napatitig na lang sa tasa ng kape na nasa
harap niya.

"Ashley is like a sister to me. I can not fully love Vance while thinking that
someone so dear to me hates him and his family to the core."
Marjorie stopped what she's doing and went right in front of her. She stared at her
for a moment.

"Whatever it is that Ashley holds against you, na alam kong meron kahit itanggi mo,
you have to open it up to him." Humawak ito sa kamay niyang nakapalibot sa tasa ng
kapeng lumamig na.

"Huwag kang makisali sa gusot ni Ashley sa mga Filan. That's the most sane advise I
could give you as a friend."

Paanong hindi siya makikisali? She's already part of it. She already chose to be at
peace with Ashley sacrificing Vance for the matter.

PERO may punto naman talaga ang kaibigan niya. What is she so afraid of?

She could just tell Vance everything and let him decide if he would still accept
her later.

Ang dali lang...

Sobrang dali lang...

Sobrang daling sabihin pero napakahirap kumuha ng lakas ng loob para magpakita sa
harap ng ibang tao, hubaran ang sarili at hayaan silang husgahan ka.

=================

35. Leaves

Leaves had to fall down to make way for new ones. That's practically how nature and
life as well go.
=================

36. Another Season Starts

Not all stories starts at chapter one. Sometimes they actually start right at the
middle where you least expect it.

___

The Empire Series: Vance Luanne

Teaser: Vance Luanne's silence is not something you'll adore.

___

Vance is the youngest, well for a few minutes, from his other triplets.

He is the most silent.

Simula pagkabata dalawang tao lang ang lagi niyang hinihingahan ng lahat ng
frustrations niya sa buhay--ang lolo at lola niya sa Ireland.

Yes, no matter how intelligent he is, he has frustrations.

AT may mga bagay na hindi niya kayang sabihin kahit sa mga magulang, kapatid at
kaibigan na tanging sa mga ito lang nasasabi.

That's why he had to fly to Ireland to be with his grandparents, who unfortunately
died three years after he graduated in college.

He spent almost everyday at his grandparents' mausoleum, speaking to their graves

as if they were listening to him.

He told them everything about the woman he fell inlove with and how she broke his
heart.

He cried his heart out for the love that could've been perfect just like his
parents...if and only if...

Unang beses na hindi siya nag-celebrate ng Christmas at New Year kasama ang
pamilya. Well, he still spent it with a family - his grandparents. Sa puntod nga
lamang siya ng mga ito nag-celebrate.

Halos araw-araw siyang tinatawagan ng ina.

Gusto nitong sumunod pero tumatanggi siya. Alam niyang ramdam ng ina niya na may
problema siya pero hindi ito nagtanong. Even his siblings were calling him up but
never asked what his problem is. Madalas ay nangungumusta lang at nakikiramdam ang
mga ito.

He only went back to the country when he was finally determined to leave everything
behind.

Gusto niyang ituring na ang pagdating ni Thea sa buhay niya ay parang mga dahon
lang ng isang puno. Pagagandahin dahil sa yabong nito ngunit malalagas rin sa
nakatakdang panahon para sumibol ang panibagong dahon.

THREE MONTHS LATER

"Complete family, huh?" Vance joked when he entered their dining area. Kumpleto
kasi ang mga kapatid niya.

Kakauwi niya lang kanina mula sa airport at dumiretso sa kuwarto. He went down when
his mom called to tell him that dinner is ready.

Nobody spoke. Mommy lang niya ang ngumiti ng tipid.

Akala pa naman niya welcome party sa pagbabalik niya sa bahay nila pero wala sa mga
ito ang nag-welcome sa kanya.

Iginala niya ang paningin.

No, their family isn't complete. Desiry and Ayder aren't there. Even Leandrei's
wife isn't present. Silang magkakapatid lang at mga magulang nila.

BUT there are two plates in front of two vacant chairs. Alam niyang sa kanya ang
isa.

He sat between Liam and Vander on their father's left side. Beside Vander is
Leandrei. Sa kabilang side naman ang ina nila, katabi ang ate Vanna niya. May isa
pang naka-set na plato sa tabi nito. They must be waiting for one more person in
the dining

area. Leandrei's wife perhaps.

Third Person's POV

"Is this some kind of a meeting?" Leandrei asked breaking the silence. Their mother
smiled nervously and glanced at their father. Hinintay nilang magsalita ang ama
pero hindi nito ibinukas ang bibig.

"Your father has something to say." Ang ina nila ang sumagot sa tanong.

There was an awkward silence among them before Vanna Lei spoke.

"Kumpleto naman na tayo. So what is it, dad?" Vanna asked.

Nagkatinginan lang ang mga magulang nila samantalang silang magkakapatid ay tahimik
na nagmamasid sa reaksyon ng mga ito.

It has never been like this in any of their dinners before. Ramdam na ramdam ang
kakaibang tensyon sa mga magulang nila.

"Unless we still have another sibling that we don't know yet which would justify
the plate beside me." Vanna Lei added chuckling.

Her brothers would have chuckled, too, if not for their parents' reactions. Ang
seryoso kasi ng mga ito.

Vanna Lei's chuckle turned into a nervous laugh. Lahat silang magkakapatid ay
natahimik.

Vanna Lei's eyes settled on the head of the house's security team. Pumasok kasi ito
sa komedor at sila ng ina ang nakaharap sa may pintuan.

"Sir, nasa living room na po 'yong hinihintay niyo." Saad ng lalaki nang makalapit
sa kinauupuan ni Vaughn.

Their dad's facial muscle tensed.

"Send her here." Vaughn ordered.

Kasabay noon ay ang pagsulyap ni Lianna kay Vance na tahimik lang na nakaupo at
nakikiramdam sa nangyayari. Hindi lang naman ito

ang nakikiramdam sa sitwasyon, kasama din ang apat nitong mga kapatid.

They were silent for a moment.

Vance's jaw tensed at the sight of the woman entering the dining area. Pinaupo ni
Vaughn ang dalaga sa bakanteng silya katabi ni Vanna Lei.

Walang nagsalita sa magkakapatid. Ang mga mata ay napagkit lang sa dalagang katabi
ni Vanna Lei.

Vaughn cleared his throat while Lianna inhaled deeply. Napatingin ang magkakapatid
sa kanilang ama at hinintay itong magsalita.

"I want you to meet Ashley Mijares." Hayag ni Vaughn. Parang may bikig sa lalamunan
nito.

Bumalik ang matiim na tingin ng magkakapatid sa dalaga. Ibang-iba ang aura ni

Ashley kaysa noong huli itong nakita ni Vance. Nawala ang galit sa mga berde nitong
mga mata.

"Dad, don't tell me I was right a while ago?" Vanna's sarcastic chuckle echoed
around. Vaughn wasn't able to move a muscle.

Sumulyap si Vanna sa katabing dalaga na may berdeng mga mata.

"How old are you?" malakas nitong tanong sa babaeng katabi. Hinawakan naman ito ng
ina sa braso.

"T-twenty Seven" Ashley answered nervously.

Who wouldn't get nervous of Vanna Lei's voice? Kung gaano ito kaganda, ganon naman
kalakas ang dating ng boses nito.

"She's younger than the triplets, dad." Tumitig ng matiim ang dalaga sa ama.
Nagpipigil ang pagngalit ng panga.

"Vanna Lei, listen to your dad first." Saway ni Lianna sa anak. Tumingin naman dito
ang anak na dalaga. None of the triplets reacted. Si Liam na madalas ay binabara
ang ama sa hapag ay hindi rin nagsasalita.

"Yes,

Ashley is your sister."

Vaughn's statement exploded like a bomb in their faces. Nabitin sa ere ang mga
reaksyon ng mga anak. Sinulyapan ng mga ito ang nakayukong dalaga na anumang oras
ay maiiyak na sa reaksyon ng magkakapatid.

"You cheated on mom?" Leandrei muttered to their father.

Umiling naman ang padre de pamilya.

"Ashley's mom is Janine Mijares." Vaughn started.

"Isn't that your ex dad?" Vanna Lei interrupted.

"Vanna, let your dad finish." Saway ni Lianna sa anak. Vanna lei smirked. Hindi
nito maintindihan kung bakit parang tanggap ng ina na may anak sa ibang babae ang
ama nila. Ang mga kapatid naman niyang lalaki ay tahimik lang.

"Long time ago, I asked her a favor to come back just to test your mom's faith over
me. She was kind enough to do it." Pahayag ni Vaughn.

The siblings' facial reaction became distant and wary.

"Nakuwento na namin 'yon 'di ba?" sabad ni Lianna. Napatango lang ang magkakapatid
habang si Ashley ay nakayuko at hindi makatingin sa mga ito ng diretso.

Lianna gave Vaughn an encouraging smile. Nagpatuloy naman ito sa pagkuwento.

"Janine's parents died in a car accident while she's here in the country.
Kagagaling lang natin noon sa Korea. Liam and Vanna might still remember our trip
back then." Pasulyap-sulyap si Vaughn sa panganay na lalaki. Inaasahan niya kasing
ito ang unang babasag sa mukha niya kung sakali pero tahimik lang itong nakikinig.

"She was so depressed. Then, she wanted to go back to the US for good but she
requested something from me." Vaughn stated

inhaling deeply.

Ang triplets ay nakatitig lang sa ama at inaanalisa ang sinasabi nito samantalang
ang kambal ay nakayuko at nag-iisip din ng malalim.

"Ashley is an in vitro baby."

"Are you serious?!" Vanna Lei exclaimed as her eyes settled at Vaughn. Pati ang
triplets ay tumalim ang tingin sa ama.

"Do you know about this, mom?" Hindi makapaniwalang baling ng dalaga sa ina.

Lianna nodded with teary eyes.

"I learned it when Janine came back bringing Ashley with her. Ashley was two years
old, then." Lianna said inhaling deeply.

"I threatened her not to come back again or her child will suffer." She added.
There is grief and regret in her voice.

"I didn't want our family to fall apart. Ang hirap ng pinagdaanan namin ng daddy
niyo bago nabuo ang pamilya natin." Pahayag ni Lianna. Tuluyan na itong napaluha.
The triplets are trying to hide their tears. Si Vanna Lei tuluyan na ring napaluha.
Liam's reaction remained stiff.

"I don't mean to hurt Ashley. Gusto ko lang takutin si Janine." Lianna's voice
broke. Tumingin ito kay Ashey na nakayuko at umiiyak.

"Your dad gave Janine a trustfund for the kid at binilin na huwag na huwag nang
magpapakita sa ating lahat." Saad ng ginang.

Vaughn just let Lianna spoke.

"We didn't know the extent of it. She died when Ashley was five because of
depression." Tuluyan nang naiyak si Lianna. None of them spoke. Si Vanna ay
nanahimik na rin at malalim ang iniisip.

Vaughn was looking at his sons, who are all silent.

"S-sorry if my mom and I s-stained

your family." Ashley muttered in between sobs.

It was Vander who opened his mouth to speak.

"I have two children, Ashley. I don't believe that a child stains anyone's family.
Every child is a gift." Vander muttered. Lahat sila ay napatingin rito.

Ashley smiled at him in between tears.

"I'm going to my room." Pahayag ni Vanna. Nagpunas ito ng luha bago umalis ng
hapag. Vander followed his sister.

Sumunod namang umalis si Leandrei. Sinundan ito ni Lianna.

It only took few seconds before Vance went off.

Agad na nagpunas ng luha si Ashley at tumingin sa ama.

"Puwede ko po bang sundan si Vance?" tanong nito kay Vaughn. Tumango naman ito.

Lumabas si Ashley ng backdoor at hinanap ng mga mata ang binata. Nakita niya itong
nasa gazebo malapit sa pool area.

Hindi nagsalita si Vance nang lapitan ito ni Ashley. Hindi naman ito umiwas
nanatili lang itong nakaupo at tahimik na nag-iisip.

Ashley inhaled deeply.

Ilang buntong-hininga pa ang pinakawalan ng dalaga bago nakakuha ng lakas ng loob

para magsalita.

"The only memory I have of my mother was the night before she died." Ashley
mumbled. She wasn't able to control her tears.

Vance only glanced at her then turned his gaze to nowhere.

"She said, I have to get away from my father. Huwag na huwag daw akong lalapit sa
kanya at sa asawa nito o sa kahit na sinong Filan." Nagsilaglagan ang mga luha ng
dalaga.
"She said that you Filans will send me to hell once I get near you." Dagdag ng
dalaga.

Hindi naman nagsalita si Vance. Tahimik lang itong nakinig.

"Kaya galit na galit ako sa inyo. Kasi kayo ang naging dahilan kung bakit namatay
sa depresyon ang mommy ko. Walang ibang nakakaalam no'n maliban kay Thea."

Ashley wiped her tears.

"Thea is the only family I got. Kaya pinili niyang lumayo sa 'yo para hindi ako
masaktan. Sorry kung pati kayo nadamay."

Vance glanced at her.

"I am not expecting you to accept me as a sister but I wish that you two would
talk. Matagal na siyang nagpapabalik-balik sa opisina mo."

Vance smiled bitterly but didn't say a word. Tumingin lang ito ulit sa kawalan.

"Vance, please talk to her. Especially now that Thea is carrying your baby." Saad
ni Ashley bago tumalikod.

=================

37.1 Silence

Silence kills. Sad but proven true. Well, not literally.

"Hindi pa rin ba dumadalaw si Vance?" Tanong ni Ashley pagkabukas ni Thea ng pinto.

Thea inhaled deeply and shook her head. Niluwagan niya ang bukas ng pintuan para sa
kaibigan.
Isang linggo na mula nang imbitahan si Ashley ng ama nito para ipakilala sa legal
na pamilya.

Vance's parents came to her unit just three days after she broke up with Vance. Si
Ashley pala ang hanap ng mga ito.

There were a lot of drama that day, Ashley being so scared, mad, and emotional
while the couple are regretful.

Doon lang nila nalaman na hindi pala ito nabuo dahil nagtaksil ang ama nito sa
asawa. He only agreed to donate a sperm and Ashley was conceived through science.

Hindi ito naniwala noong una pero ipinakita ng mag-asawa ang mga medical records ng
ina nito.

Ramdam niya ang sakit sa bawat luha noon ng kaibigan. Pakiramdam nito ay isa lang
itong laruang binuo para magkaroon ng saysay kahit papaano ang buhay ng ina sa
panahong iyon.

She can't even accept that she is actually a part of her father's genes.

It's not as if Ashley doesn't know what an in vitro fertilization is all about.

Alam naman nito na nag-donate lang ang ama ng sperm at hanggang doon lang dapat. Sa
ibang bansa nga, hindi alam ng babae kung sino ang sperm donor.

Ayaw pumunta ni Ashley noon sa bahay ng pamilya Filan pero dahil nalaman nito na
kasama si Vance ay pumayag ito nang sa gayon ay maipaliwanag nito sa binata ang
lahat. She said it's the least she could
do for her.

Ashley was able to tell Vance about her prenancy. Pero hindi pa rin nagpapakita sa
kanya ang binata. Kaya tinanggap ulit ng dalaga ang alok ng mag-asawang Filan na
doon ito mag-stay kagabi. Gusto ulit nitong kausapin si Vance.

As for Thea, she doesn't want to go out in the open with her bulging tummy. Baka
may makasalubong siyang kamag-anak o kaibigan ng ina niya, mas lalo lang magagalit
ang mga magulang sa kanya.

Her mother was so mad at her when she admitted that she's pregnant and that she
already broke up with Vance.

Gusto nga ng ina na sumugod sa mga Filan pero pinakiusapan niya lang ito. Kaya
hanggang ngayon ay galit pa rin ang ina sa kanya. She considers her as a disgrace
to their family. Pati nga ang ate niya ay sinabihan siyang huwag maglalalabas para
hindi makita ng ilang kakilala. They don't want to answer questions from any of
their clan if ever.

They are too morally upright that they try to magnify even a small mistake. It is
the reason why she is so afraid to open up to her parents.

"I talked to him last night." Ashley stated as she sat on the long couch. Naupo rin
siya sa kaharap na single couch.

She inhaled deeply. She's been trying to reach him four days ago. Tumatawag siya sa
opisina nito pero busy daw lagi. She can no longer contact his old phone number.

"Sinabi ko kung gaano kasakit lumaki na walang ama. Na sana isipin niya ang
magiging anak niyo." Hayag ni Ashley. She could feel her pain. Naalala siguro nito
ang panahong lumaki itong mag-isa. Noong namatay kasi ang ina nito at

walang mahanap na kamag-anak ay ipinadala siya sa isang exclusive school house for
girls. Doon na ito nag-aral at lumaki gamit ang kanyang trustfund.
"What did he say?" Tanong niya rito. Napabuntong-hininga siya.

She doesn't like to think that her child would grow up without a father but a part
of her says that she has to accept it.

"He never spoke." Tugon ni Ashley.

"Galit talaga siya sa akin." Nalulungkot niyang saad. She smiled bitterly. She
can't blame him. She chose friendship over him.

"I'm sorry, Thea." Ashley mumbled. Nagtubig na naman ang mga mata nito. She has
always been a cry baby ever since. Ang lungkot kasi ng buhay nito. Wala ito ni
isang kamag-anak na kinalakhan.

"Wala kang kasalanan. I chose you because I was the only one you've got. Vance has
a family to comfort him." Saad niya rito.

"Baka hindi lang talaga niya ako mahal kaya hindi niya maintindihan ang naging
desisyon ko." Thea added. She felt teary-eyed. Agad niyang pinunas ang mga luha
bago pa malaglag.

"I wish you two would be okay before I go back to New Jersey." Saad ng kaibigan.

Napatingin siya rito.

"Babalik ka na doon? Alam na ba nila?" Tanong niya sa dalaga.

"Hindi ko naman sila pamilya." Malungkot nitong tugon.

Akala niya dati kapag nakausap na ni Ashley ang ama at naliwanagan na ang lahat ng
namagitan sa ina nito ay magiging okay na, hindi pala.
Mas lalo pala itong malulungkot sa pagtuklas sa katotohanan.

She would have accepted if she was made out of temporary bliss from her parents but
no, she was made artificially.

"But you being invited at their house means they accept you." Saad niya rito.

"Hindi ko alam. I cannot even bring myself to call Vaughn Filan dad. He's just
mom's sperm donor, not my father." Natawa ito ng pagak. Ramdam niya ang pait sa
boses nito.

"Sinabi mo ba 'yan sa kanya?" tanong niya rito.

Ashley smiled bitterly and nodded.

"Oo. Hindi naman din siya nag-insist." She chuckled bitterly. Natahimik siya sa
sinabi ng kaibigan.

"Buti pa nga si Tita Lianna, sinabihan akong tawagin siyang daddy." Napaluha ang
kaibigan sa sariling pahayag. Tiningnan lamang niya ito.

"Alam mo ba sobrang bait niya? I cursed her to die as I was growing up BUT now I
can not even get mad at her." Ngumiti ito nang may luha sa mga mata.

"Siya ang dahilan kung bakit ayokong maging parte ng Filan." Nagpunas ito ng luha
at ngumiti.

"She's too nice that she doesn't deserve me breaking in to their family." Ashley
bit her lips to stop it from shaking. Tuloy-tuloy ang pagluha nito.

Thea wiped her eyes. Masaya siya na may napuntahan din pala ang pagkakaalam nito sa
katotohanan. Nawala ang galit ng kaibigan sa ginang.

"Baka naman gusto ka din niyang maging parte ng pamilya nila? Kasi Filan ka rin
naman." Saad niya sa dalaga.
Ashley smiled painfully.

"I am a Mijares and that's the least I could

do for all the heartaches my mother had caused her." Naluluha nitong pahayag.

Napaiyak siya sa sinabi ng kaibigan. Tumabi siya rito at yumakap.

Ashley might've nurtured anger inside her but she's a gem. Alam nito kung saan
lulugar. She knows exactly what sacrifice means.

Ashley also hugged her tight.

Natatawa siyang bumitaw rito nang makahuma.

"Kumusta naman 'yong magkakapatid? Hindi ka ba inapi?" Tanong niya rito.

"Vander and Leandrei are nice to me. Kinakausap na nila ako. Liam never say
anything like Vance." Kuwento naman nito.

"Si Vanna Lei galit. Hindi ko alam kung sa akin o sa ama niya o sa sitwasyon."

Napapatango na lang siya habang nakikinig.

"But it's okay. Hindi naman din ako makiki-kapatid sa kanila." Dagdag nito. Simula
pa lang talaga sinabi na ng kaibigan na ayaw nitong maging parte ng pamilya Filan.

"Sure ka na ba talaga diyan?" tanong niya rito.

"Yes. Okay na ako sa isang taong itinuring akong kapatid nang walang kondisyon at
pinili ako higit kanino man." Nakangiti nitong tugon.

"Pero sana maging okay pa rin kayo ni Vance." Dagdag ng dalaga.

Hindi na lamang siya nagsalita.

Tahimik lang silang nakaupo nang marinig ang doorbell. Nagkatinginan pa silang
magkaibigan. Tumayo si Ashley para tingnan kung sino ang nasa labas.

"I think I need to leave." Ashley uttered looking at the monitor behind the door.

Napatingin siya rito. Bumalik ito para kunin ang bag sa center table. Nagtataka
niya itong sinundan ng

tingin hanggang sa may pintuan.

Kinabahan siya ng lumabas ito ng unit at sumunod naman pumasok ang pamilyar na
pigura.

"Vance." Napatayo siya mula sa kinauupuan. Bumilis ang tibok ng puso niya.

Vance stared at her tummy. Maglilimang buwan na ang nasa sinapupunan niya kaya
kitang-kita na talaga ang umbok nito.

"Upo ka." Napapalunok niyang sambit. Sumulyap ito sa mukha niya pero mabilis ding
binawi ang mga mata. Pakiramdam niya ay napakabagal ng oras habang hinihintay itong
maglakad at umupo sa kaharap na single couch.

"G-gusto mo ng maiinom?" She stammered. Her heart beats are racing.

"No." Vance answered curtly. Hindi ito tumingin sa kanya. Inilibot nito ang
paningin sa loob ng unit.

She was fidgeting on her seat as she looked at him. She suddenly realized how much
she missed him. Pinunas niya ang mga mata bago pa man maluha.

She went to the display cabinet where her lab results are placed.

Iniabot niya ang envelope sa binata. Tumingala naman ito sa kanya.

She swallowed hard. His expression is blank. She felt like her heart wanted to go
out from her ribcage seeing his green eyes.

"Lab results ng pregnancy tests at check ups ko." Saad niya sa binata. Tumitig
naman ito sa envelope bago dahan-dahang inabot.

She doesn't know what to feel with Vance's silence. Hindi niya kasi sigurado kung
ano ang iniisip nito. He's always unfathomable when he's silent. Isa sa mga bagay
na noon pa man ay nais niyang tibagin mula rito.

Nakatitig lang siya rito habang inisa-isa nito ang mga papel sa loob ng envelope.
Nandoon lahat ng lab results niya, mga reseta at mga bilin kung ano ang dapat at
hindi dapat gawin habang nagbubuntis.

Matiyaga niya itong hinintay na magbasa para hintayin ang ano mang sasabihin nito
pero hindi ito nagsalita. Nanatili itong tahimik.

Hindi naman siguro nito iniisip na hindi ito ang tunay na ama ng dinadala niya.
That would be very insulting.

Nakababaliw ang sumunod na katahimikan.

Gusto niyang magsalita at magtanong pero bigla siyang tinablan ng hiya.

Nakararamdam pa siya ng gutom. Hindi pa pala siya nagtanghalian dahil sa naging
takbo ng usapan nila ni Ashley.
"Gusto mo ng snacks?" tanong niya sa binata na nakatuon pa rin ang pansin sa mga
dokumento.

Sumulyap lang ito at umiling. Dahan-dahan na lamang siyang nagpunta ng kitchen.

There's food in the table. Inorder niya ito kanina. Kakainin nila dapat ito ni
Ashley.

Tahimik siyang kumain habang pasulyap-sulyap sa binatang nasa sala. Halos hindi
niya malunok ang pagkain pero dahil gutom siya at buntis ay pinilit niyang kumain.

Nakita niyang natapos na ang binata sa pagbabasa at isinilid na ulit sa envelope

ang mga dokumento.

Umupo ito. Maya-maya ay nagbukas ng TV. Naka-mute yata dahil wala siyang marinig na
sounds.

Nagmadali niyang tinapos ang pagkain at nagligpit.

Pagbalik niya ay natunghay lang ang binata sa TV. Ni hindi ito tumingin sa kanya
kahit noong tumikhim siya.

May kung anong saya ang puso niya na nagpakita na rin ito sa wakas pero sa kabila
nito ay nakararamdam siya ng kirot sa puso sa pananahimik nito.

=================

37.2 Silence

The paradox that we want a silent person to speak up but when he finally speaks, we
just wish he didn't.
Thea turned off the television to get Vance's attention.

Bumilis ang sasal ng puso niya nang sumulyap ang binata sa kanya.

Huminga siya ng malalim bago naupo sa katapat na couch. She cleared her throat.

"I met Ashley when I worked at New Jersey." Umpisa niya.

Napalunok siya.

"Napakatahimik niyang tao. 'Yong sobrang hirap abutin kung anong iniisip niya.
Napakailap din niya sa mga tao sa paligid niya." Huminga siya ng malalim. Ang
binata naman ay nakayuko lang at pinapakinggan ang kuwento niya.

"I always have fondness to silent people." Dagdag niya.

"Maybe it has something to do with you."

Napasulyap si Vance sa kanya. Her heart beats faster.

"You have always been my crush eversince at dahil sobrang tahimik mo, nagkaroon ako
ng fascination sa mga taong tahimik."

Ngumiti siya ng mapait nang magbaba ulit ito ng tingin. She doesn't know if Vance
believes what she's saying.

Napalunok siya ulit bago nagpatuloy.

"I befriended her. She was able to open up her life with me."

Her tears began falling but she tried to calm down. Vance didn't even look at her.

"Lumaki siyang wala ni isang kamag-anak. I felt like she needed a family. A sister
at that. Then she told me about her father, your father." She added. She needed to
reach for another tissue to sneeze. Hindi na kasi siya makahinga sa patuloy na
pagluha.

"Noong

nasa iisang apartment na kami halos gabi-gabi siyang binabangungot. Napapanigipan

niya 'yong nag-iisang memorya niya sa ina. That the Filans will cast her out to
hell." She narrated. Pinilit niyang tanggalin ang pagbara sa lalamunan niya.

"When I learned about her being your sister, I realized it was not because she was
silent that intrigued me. It has something to do with her green eyes. The same eyes
that you have."

Napangiti ng mapait ang binata at napailing sa pahayag niya.

"She's so dear to me. Noong nagpakita siya ng araw ng birthday ko, nakita ko ang
sakit sa mga mata niya habang nakatitig sa 'yo."

Napaluha ulit siya nang maalala ang gabing 'yon.

"Galit siya kasi ang akala niya ang mga magulang mo ang dahilan ng maagang
pagkamatay ng mommy niya. I saw pain in her eyes that I haven't seen for a long
time."

Vance brushed his face using his palm. Akala niya ay magsasalita ito pero nanatili
itong tahimik.

"She's your sister Vance. Gustong-gusto kong sabihin dati pero wala akong
karapatang makialam." Her voice broke saying those words. Bumigat lalo ang dibdib
niya.

"I am so sorry." She mumbled in between tears.

"I am sorry for choosing her over you."

She cried in silence.

"You are sorry for not loving me. Great! Just great." Vance finally muttered.
Napatitig siya rito. Lumakas ang kabog sa dibdib niya nang salubungin nito ang
titig niya.

Huminga siya ng malalim at pinilit inalis ang bikig sa lalamunan.

"I love you, Vance but I just needed to choose her over you." Dumaloy ang
masaganang luha sa pisngi niya.

Vance shook his head.

"That's exactly the point! You don't love me that much to choose me."

Kinabahan siya sa galit na nakikita sa mga mata nito.

"I'm sorry if I hurt you with my decision." Iyon lamang ang tanging nasambit niya.
Her eyes didn't stop watering. Her shoulders are shaking.

Mahal niya ito. Iba naman 'yon sa pagmamahal niya sa kaibigan. Pero 'yon na ang
naging desisyon niya noon at ayaw niyang pagsisihan iyon.

She's only sorry she hurt him.

"If you're not pregnant, I bet you wouldn't call my office a number of times."
Nagtatagis ang bagang nitong saad.

"Don't act like a selfless dog for choosing my sister, Thea."

The rage in his eyes made her knees quiver.

She momentarily closed her eyes when he opened his mouth again.

"Because in reality you are just another selfish, b--." Vance pressed his lips
together so as not to utter the last word fully.

Did he mean to say bitch?

It made her heart churned in pain.

Thea's tears kept falling she had to ran to her room.

She's just another selfish bitch.

Sobrang sakit.

She buried her face on the pillow as she cried hard.

Ito na 'yon. Ito na siguro 'yong hinihintay niyang karma sa lahat ng kasalanan
niya.

It feels like her heart is being teared into pieces. She cried her heart out.

Gusto niyang tawagan si Ashley pero wala siyang lakas na iangat ang mukha mula sa
unan. Her entire body is quivering in pain.

=================

38. Why?

There will always be an indirect answer to the question why.

Thea was a bit disoriented when she woke up. Nakatulog pala siya kanina nang
tumakbo siya ng kuwarto para mailabas ang lahat ng sakit sa kalooban.

Bumalik na naman ang bigat sa dibdib niya. Hindi pa yata natuyo ang luha sa unan
niya.

Mabigat ang katawan niyang bumangon. Her stomach is grumbling. Hindi niya alam kung
gaano katagal siyang nakatulog.

She stared at the clock on the bedside table. It's 6: 45 P.M.

Pinilit niya ang sariling humakbang. She needs to prepare food. Hindi lang para sa
kanya kundi para rin sa anak niya.

Natigilan siya nang makitang nakahiga si Vance sa sofa. His eyes are closed. Akala
niya ay umalis na ito nang tumakbo siya papuntang kuwarto.

Her heart raced again.

What does this mean?

May gusto pa ba itong sabihin sa kanya?

She shook her head. Maybe he wants to talk about child custody.

Napailing siya sa naisip.

Dahan-dahan siyang naglakad papuntang kusina.

She stared at the vegetables and ingredients on the container. Hinanda niya talaga
ang mga iyon kaninang umaga pa. Pero napatitig lang siya rito. Hindi na kasi niya
maalala kung paano ito lutuin. Lumipad na yata lahat ng mga napanood niya sa
youtube dahil sa pag-iyak kanina.

Mabigat ang paang tinungo niya ang kuwarto para kunin ang laptop. Vance is in the
same spot as he was.

Kipkip ang laptop na lumabas siya ng kuwarto. Nahigit niya ang paghinga nang
makitang nakaupo na ang binata at nakatitig

sa kanya. Bilang na bilang ang paghakbang niya.

Nakatingin pa rin ito nang madaanan na niya ang kinaroroonan nito. His expression
is blank.

"Uhm, m-magluluto lang ako," mahina niyang saad bago nagtungo ng kitchen. She
swallowed hard. Nanginginig pa niyang ipinatong ang laptop sa kitchen counter at
binuksan. She waited for it open. Ayaw niyang lumingon kasi pakiramdam niya ay
nakatingin lang ang binata sa kanya.

Napatuwid siya ng tayo nang maramdaman niya ang presensya nito. Nakita niyang
tinungo nito ang container kung nasaan ang mga ingredients para sa lulutuin.

Napatanga siya nang umpisahan na nitong hugasan ang mga gulay. Nagtungo ito sa ref
at kumuha ng karne. Hindi ito nagsalita. Ni hindi ito sumulyap sa kanya.

Hindi niya alam kung gaano katagal siyang nakatunganga lang doon.

She can't help but remember that night when she's mad but he stayed until morning.
Ipinagluto pa siya ng breakfast. At noong tinanong niya ito kung bakit hindi umalis
sinabi nitong---.

Napailing siya sa naisip. This is way too different. Siya ang galit noon kaya ito
hindi umalis. Iba ngayon kasi ito ang galit sa kanya.

There is something in this situation that she feels a bit off.

O baka takot lang talaga siyang umasa na nag-stay ito dahil gusto nitong magkaayos
sila?

Ang tagal niyang kinuha ang lakas ng loob para magsalita. She was about to open her
mouth to speak when Vance's phone rang.

She saw him taking the call.

"Hey," he said putting it on his ear.

Nakamasid lang siya rito.

"Not tonight. I'm busy." Saad

nito sa kausap.

Natahimik ito saglit.

"Yes, whatever." He uttered again.

She doesn't want to pry but she can not bring herself to move. Nanatili lang siya
mula sa kinatatayuan.

"Huwag na." Saad ulit nito.

"Bukas na lang ng gabi." He said.

A few seconds later, he put the phone on the kitchen table. Itinuloy nito ang pag-
slice sa gulay.

"Hindi ba makakasama sa baby kapag matagal kang nakatayo?"

Napapitlag siya nang magsalita ito. Agad pa siyang napaupo sa stool ng kitchen
counter.

"That chair is too high." He commented. Agad ulit siyang napatayo. Bumilis ang
tibok ng puso niya.

Somehow, he cares. Pinigilan niyang mapangiti. At least, he cares. Hindi man sa

kanya, at least, para man lang sa baby nila.

Dahan-dahan siyang lumipat sa may dining area at doon na umupo.

Pakiramdam niya ay ang tagal ng oras. Ramdam niya at nasusulyapan ang bawat kilos
ng binata habang nagluluto. She only pretended to be engrossed on her laptop
screen.

Napatuwid siya ng upo nang lumapit si Vance. Pinigilan niya ang sariling huminga ng
malalim.

Naglagay lang pala ito ng nilutong pagkain sa mesa. Iniwasan niya itong tingnan at
tumingin sa laptop.

"Your laptop is not even turned on." He muttered before turning away.

Pinamulahan siya ng mukha hindi lang dahil sa hiya kundi dahil pinapakiramdaman din
siya nito. There is a small hope in her heart that they could fix whatever they
have. Minsan na din naman itong umamin na mahal siya nito.

Kahit

na hindi nagsasalita ang lalaking kaharap sa hapag ay naparami pa rin siya ng kain.
It's been so long since she last tasted his recipes. Magaling talaga itong magluto.

Tahimik lang sila pareho nang matapos kumain. None of them stood up yet.

Thea cleared her throat.

"Bakit hindi ka umalis kanina?" lakas-loob niyang tanong sa binata.

Vance looked at her. There is an emotion in his eyes that she can not name.

She saw him averting his gaze.

Blangko na ang ekpresyon ng mukha nito nang tumitig ulit sa kanya.

"There are only two possible reasons why people stay, Thea." He started.

Napalunok siya at hinintay ang sasabihin nito.

"I already told you the first possible reason when I stayed that night of your
sister's fashion show." Vance added.

Huminga siya ng malalim. That was the time he said he loves her.

"The second one is the reason why I am here right now." Vance said inhaling deeply.

Inilapit nito ang mukha sa kanya. Pinanginigan siya nang makita ang galit sa mga
titig nito.

She blinked twice. Gusto niyang makita kung talagang galit pa rin ito sa kanya o
baka namalik-mata lang siya.

"And I will not give you the satisfaction to know." He uttered before standing.
Binuhat nito ang mga pinagkainan at inilagay sa sink.
She was dumbfounded. The only thing she was able to do is watch him as he fixes the
table.

Hindi na rin siya nakapag-react nang simulan nitong maghugas ng mga pinagkainan
nila.

Why did he stay? Gusto niyang itanong kung dahil ba ito

sa baby nila pero tuluyan na siyang napipilan.

"May gusto ka pa bang sabihin o pag-usapan kaya hindi ka pa umaalis?" tanong niya
ng matapos ito sa ginagawa at tumingin ulit sa kanya.

"Do you want me out?" He asked directly.

Nahigit niya ang paghinga bago sumagot.

"No." She answered.

"Then, stop asking." He muttered before going to the living room. Umupo ito sa
couch at binuksan na naman ang TV.

She just let him. Vance would only talk if he wants to. Alam na niya iyon. She
knows that right now she can never force him to speak.

"Paki-lock na lang pinto pag-alis mo." Saad na lang niya bago pumasok ng kuwarto.

She wasn't able to sleep. Hindi niya kasi alam kung lumabas na ang binata. It's
been four hours since she went inside the room.

Umuwi na kaya ang binata?

Dahan-dahan siyang sumilip mula sa pinto. The living room is already dark. Lumabas
na siguro ito kaya nakapatay na ang lahat ng ilaw.
She uttered the password to turn on the lights.

Lumakas ang kabog sa dibdib niya nang makita ang binatang nakatulog na sa may
couch. Sa tangkad nito, lumalaylay na ang mga paa mula sa armrest ng couch. Naawa
siya sa posisyon nito.

She went to fix the only guest room of her condo.

Ninenerbyos siyang gisingin ito pero naglakas-loob na lang siya kaysa mangalay ito
sa pagkakahiga doon.

"Vance," marahan niya itong niyugyog. Her heart raced when he opened his eyes.

"Lipat ka sa kuwarto para makahiga ka ng maayos." Kinakabahan niyang saad.

Agad itong bumangon at nakayukong hinawakan ang mga mata.

She was about to tell him to go to the guest room when he stood up. Tuloy-tuloy
itong naglakad at pumasok sa kuwarto niya.

It took her few seconds before she followed his footsteps.

Nakahiga na ito sa kama niya at itinuloy ang pagtulog. The same spot where he used
to sleep before.

=================

39. Odd

The sea is calmer where it is deeper.

Thea looked at the main door when it swung open.

"How did your conversation with Vance go?" tanong ni Ashley. Tuloy-tuloy itong
pumasok. Her friend sat on the couch.
Naupo rin siya sa tabi ng kaibigan. Dito nga pala ulit ito matutulog ngayong gabi.

"He's really mad." Napabuntong-hininga siya.

"Did you talk about your baby?" mahina nitong tanong. Napatitig siya sa kaibigan.

"No." Iling niya.

"God." Ashley muttered. Her eyes are getting teary. Hinaplos pa nito ang tiyan
niya.

"I hope you won't be like tita Ash, baby." Sambit nito.

"Huwag ka nga." Tinapik niya ang kamay nito. Pati siya ay naluluha na rin. Inalis
naman nito ang kamay sa tiyan niya.

They were both silent for a while.

"I explained my side. I don't know if he believes me. Maybe it is just too painful
for him to accept." Putol niya sa katahimikan.

Ashley glanced at her. She looks so apologetic.

"Did he walked out on you?" tanong nito. Napalunok siya bago umiling.

Napatango lang din ang kaibigan niya. Hindi na ito nagkomento.

She expected that. Kilala niya kasi ito. Hindi ito 'yong tipo ng kaibigang
nagbibigay ng advice. But it doesn't mean she care less. Sadyang hindi lang ito
sanay na nagbibigay ng payo. Wala din naman kasi itong naging kaibigan bukod sa
kanya maliban na lang sa mga nagiging boyfriend nito na lahat naman ay hindi
natatagalan ang ugali nito kalaunan.
"Anong oras siya umalis?" tanong nito

matapos ang ilang saglit na katahimikan.

She swallowed hard.

Hindi siya nakasagot agad. Huminga siya ng malalim.

"H-he's at my room sleeping." Parang may bikig sa lalamunan niya.

Hindi makapaniwalang-tumitig sa kanya ang kaibigan.

"Oh my god, Thea. Did you have sex after you talked?" agad nitong tanong.
Pakiramdam niya ay pinamulahan siya kahit hindi naman totoo.

"No." Marahas siyang napailing.

"So, he's mad at you but he's sleeping on your bed?" Hindi makapaniwala nitong
tanong.

Napatango siya.

"He's either lying or he's crazy." Natatawa nitong dagdag sabay tayo.

"Magkapatid kasi kayo." Ganti niya rito.

"Whatever! I'm sleeping." Ashley said dismissing her. Nagmadali itong pumasok sa
guestroom.

Agad niya itong sinundan nang maalala na wala siyang ibang tutulugan.
Pero pipihitin pa lang niya ang doorknob narinig na niya ang pag-double lock nito
mula sa loob.

"Sleep well, Thea." Sambit pa nito. She tried to open it but it's really locked.
Napa-face palm na lang siya sa ginawa ng kaibigan.

This is her condo unit. Siya pa ang nawalan ng matutulugan.

She can't sleep on the couch.

Lumakas man ang tibok ng puso niya ay nagpasya na lang siyang pumasok sa sariling
kuwarto.

Late na siyang nagising kinabukasan. Madaling-araw na rin kasi siyang nakatulog

kakatitig sa katabi sa kama na mahimbing ang tulog. Wala na ito nang magising siya.

She went to the bathroom to

fix herself before going out of the room.

Napalunok siya nang makita ang magkapatid na tahimik na kumakain sa hapag.

Magkaharap pa ang dalawa pero hindi nagtitinginan.

Nakita niyang tumayo si Vance. Babalik sana siya loob ng kuwarto dahil baka mahuli
siyang nakatingin sa mga ito pero hindi siya nakagalaw.

Mabuti na lang hindi ito tumingin sa direksyon niya. He's only wearing boxers and
white sando shirt.
Kung hindi lang niya iniisip na magkapatid ang dalawa baka nainis na siya sa
isiping kaharap nito si Ashley na gano'n ang suot. Iyon siguro ang panloob ng suot
nito kahapon na long sleeves at pants.

Napasulyap ito kay Ashley na humabol ng tingin sa binata.

"Don't stare at my butt. Gusto mo buntisin din kita?" saad ni Vance kay Ashley. He
has a serious tone.

Napakunot-noo siya. Vance really has a foul mouth.

"Bakit kasing sarap ka ba ng luto mo?" nakangisi namang balik-tanong ng isa. That
made her forehead creased even more.

Are they really talking?

"Only Thea can answer that question." Vance smirked.

Sumikdo pa ang puso niya sa narinig.

Kung hindi lang sana confusing ang sitwasyon nila, matatawa siya sa usapan ng
dalawa.

BUT wait...

Vance is already speaking.

Is it a good sign?
Napatikhim siya at lumapit sa mga ito na parehong napatingin sa kanya. Ngumiti siya
ng tipid nang makitang may nakahanda nang gatas at vitamins sa mesa.

"Good morning," she muttered greeting

no one in particular. None of them spoke.

Ashley handed her a plate. Inilapit din nito ang vitamins at gatas sa harap niya.

Napatingin siya sa mga pagkain. Her mouth watered at the sight of the fresh fruits
whipped with cheese and cream. May egg rolls, fried rice, ham and bacon at pancakes
pa.

She knows who prepared it. She was always spoiled with that kind of breakfast
whenever Vance sleeps at her place.

"Thea, I have something to ask." Ashley said breaking the silence. Inilapit nito
ang bibig sa tainga niya ng ilang segundo.

Her forehead creased and looked at her. Wala naman kasi itong sinabi. Ngumiti lang
ito.

"Vance." Baling nito sa lalaking kaharap. Nag-angat naman ng tingin ang isa.

"Hindi naman daw sabi ni Thea." Nakangisi nitong sambit.

Vance's forehead also creased.

"The food." Ashley added. Vance pursed his lips. He looks pissed.

Hindi niya mahinuha ang pinag-uusapan ng dalawa pero nang makita niyang nagpigil ng
tawa ang kaibigan niya, alam niyang pinipikon nito ang binata.
Ashley has that side, too. Sa kabila ng pananahimik, pilya din ito minsan kapag
nakasanayan na ang taong kaharap.

Vance stared at her making her heart beats erratically fast. He inhaled deeply.
Tumitig ito ng matiim sa kanya.

"Did you throw my clothes? I can't find them." Walang emosyon nitong saad.

Napalunok siya.

Vance has clothes in her condo. Dito na kasi ito nagbibihis noon at isinasama na
rin niya

ang mga damit nito kapag nagpapa-laundry siya dati.

Itinago niya noon ang mga damit nito dahil mas lalo lang siyang naiiyak kapag
nakikita niya ito sa walk-in closet niya katabi ng mga naka-hanger niyang damit.

"Uhm, I put it in a box. It's at the built-in cabinet on the left." Tugon niya. She
doesn't understand why she feels nervous.

Bigla namang tumayo si Vance at agad na nagtungo ng kuwarto.

"Were you living together, then?" baling ni Ashley sa kanya.

"Hindi. Dito lang siya natutulog minsan." Katwiran niya.

"Minsan daw?" Ashley teased.

Napailing na lang siya sa kabigan.

"Nag-usap na kayo? What did he say?" seryoso niyang tanong sa kaibigan. She wants
to dismiss her joke.
"We don't." Napapailing naman nitong tugon.

"You were talking with each other a while back."

Ashley looked at her and inhaled deeply.

Ngumiti ito ng tipid.

"Is he really like that? Magsasalita lang kapag may sasabihing kabastusan?" Sambit
nito.

So, the scene she witnessed is just a bit on how Vance treated her while she was
asleep.

"Why? What did he say?"

Ngumiti ng alanganin ang dalagang kaharap.

"Paglabas ko kasi nagluluto siya kaya nagulat ako. So, I just watched him." Kuwento
ng kaibigan.

"Tapos sabi ba naman sa akin, standing position is only gratifying when you are
having sex."

Vance has a foul mouth but not to anyone. Nakita na niya itong makipag-usap sa
iba't-ibang tao. Sa kanya lang ito nagsasalita ng gano'n at sa kaibigan na si Mac
and sometimes Stacy.

So maybe it's a sign that Vance is no longer considering Ashley a different person.

"Tapos no'ng umupo ako sabi niya, have you tried sitting astride your boyfriend
while having sex, that's orgasmic. Bastos talaga!" Nahihiyang kuwento ni Ashley.
Hindi niya napigilang matawa ng mahina sa sinabi ng kaibigan.

"He's only like that to people close to him or at least to people he wanted to get
closed to."

Pinamulahan si Ashley sa sinabi niya. parang hindi ito makapaniwala.

"Gano'n rin kaya siya sa ate Vanna niya?" Tanong ng kaibigan niya.

"She will shoot me dead if I'd say that to her."

Napatingin sila pareho kay Vance. Nandoon pala itong nakatayo malapit sa
kinaroroonan nila. Hawak nito ang pares ng suit na naka-hanger. Gusot-gusot pa ang
damit.

Nagkatinginan silang magkaibigan. None of them spoke.

Agad itong nagtungo sa pinto nang may nag-doorbell.

Narinig nilang binilin nito na dalhin agad ang suit within 15 minutes. Baka laundry
personnel ng building ang kausap nito. Ito kasi minsan ang pinapatawag niya noon
kapag gusto nitong magpa-pressed ng damit kaya alam na alam na nito ang ginagawa.

Bumalik din ito sa kuwarto.

She couldn't believe how everything turned out. Vance is acting like it's so damn
casual to butt in their conversation.

What happened?

It's not consistent with how he reacted yesterday when they spoke. 'Yong galit sa
mga mata nito, hindi iyon galit na bastang nawawala sa isang tulog lang.

Something is definitely odd.

Or....

Is it that he's starting and trying his best to accept everything?

=================

40. Haunted Past

You can never get away from the past. You either live or die with it.
Thea and Ashley were disturbed by the ringing of the doorbell just before lunch
time. Ito ay ilang oras matapos umalis si Vance nang walang paalam.

She wasn't surprised to see Vaughn and Lianna at the monitor. Agad niyang
pinagbuksan ang mag-asawa.

"Ashley," tawag niya sa kaibigan matapos batiin ang mga ito.

"We came here to invite you both for lunch." Saad naman ni Lianna sa kanila nang
makapasok.

"Kasama po ako?" tanong niya sa ginang. Lianna smiled. The old lady stared at her
tummy. Nahihiya siyang tumingin rito.

"Yes." Lianna answered with a nod. Ngumiti ito. That kind of smile she wished her
mother would have done when she learned she was pregnant. Pinigilan niya ang
sariling maluha.

Napatingin sila kay Vaughn nang tumikhim ito.

"Get dressed. We'll wait for you." Saad nito.

Hindi na sila naka-hindi pa. They went to their rooms and get dressed fastly.
Sa isang restaurant sila nagpunta. They rode on the couple's car. Sa backseat sila
pareho ni Ashley. Sa harap naman ang mag-asawa.

Tahimik lang sila hanggang sa maka-order.

"Ashley, are you really sure you are going back to New Jersey?" Lianna asked
starting the conversation.

Napatingin ang kaibigan sa kanya bago sinagot ang katanungan ng ginang. Tinanguan

naman niya ito.

"Opo." Ashley nodded.

Napatitig lang sila rito. Ashley smiled at the couple.

"Thank you po kasi hindi kayo galit sa akin." Dagdag nito.

Napangiti siya sa kaibigan. She knows by the way Ashley looks at them, there is
peace inside her friend's heart.

"I have never been angry at you." Lianna smiled at Ashley.

"Maybe to your mom, yes, but I have already forgiven her. I am not that SAVAGE not
to FORGIVE a DEAD person no matter how much I was hurt." She chuckled softly but
her sincerity is as bright as the sun.

Napangiti sila pareho sa sinagot ng ginang.

Ashley was right. The woman's the kindest.

"Don't you want to settle somewhere else?" Vaughn butted in after a few seconds of
"Po?" Napatingin sila pareho kay Vaughn.

"I mean if you would like to start a new life somewhere else."

Nagkatinginan silang magkaibigan. Pinamulahan sila pareho sa narinig.

Does he know something?

"We know about the case that you both were involved to." Vaughn muttered as if he
read what she was thinking.

Napayuko siya. Bumilis ang tibok ng puso niya. It wasn't actually both of them. It
was only her. She was only spared because Ashley came to admit the crime.

It happened years ago. Inamin niya ang nangyari sa kaibigan. Akala nila pareho
hindi na mapapatunayan na may kinalaman siya doon pero ilang taon ang lumipas bigla
na lang may lumabas sa investigation na nagtuturo sa kanya.

They both

panicked. Ashley went to the police to admit the crime. Nasa kulungan ito noon nang
sabihin nitong umuwi na siya ng Pilipinas. Ayaw niyang umalis noon pero natakot din
siya.

"It was your father who helped you out of jail." Lianna told Ashley. Napalunok
siya. Parang may nagbara sa lalamunan niya. Napatingin siya sa kaibigan. Nakatitig
lang ito sa ama.

"I knew about the case. I didn't want you be sentenced to death." Vaughn uttered.

"I am sorry you had to stay a few months in jail. It was hard to find evidences to
prove that you're not guilty after admitting the crime." Vaughn muttered.

Napasinghap siya ng sumulyap ito sa kanya. Pero agad din nitong ibinaling kay
Ashley ang titig. She saw Lianna staring at her. Pinanginigan pa siya.
O masyado lang siyang guilty na inako ni Ashley ang kasalanan niya?

"Thank you." Ashley mumbled. Her voice broke. Napaluha siya nang tuluyan nang
umiyak ang kaibigan.

There was a long silence.

"You've been so nice to me and to my mother." Saad ni Ashley sa mag-asawa.

The two only stared at Ashley and nodded.

"The only thing I can do to repay you is to stay anonymous." Ashley added.

Napatingin siya sa kaibigan.

"Tita Lianna, alam ko po na hindi maiiwasan na isipin ng ibang tao na niloko kayo
ng asawa niyo kapag nalaman nilang anak niya ako. I don't like that to happen."

Lianna reached for Ashley's hand.

"I don't care what people think. You are my husband's blood. I just want you to be
fine." Lianna said softly.

"Let it just be like any other

IVF. I shouldn't be meddling with the man who donated a sperm to my mom."

Lianna smiled but remained silent.

"Puwede ka pa rin bang dalawin ng mga kapatid mo kapag nagpunta sila ng New
Jersey?" Tanong nito matapos ang ilang segundong katahimikan.
"Galit naman po yata 'yong iba sa akin." Ashley answered with a soft chuckle.
Nagpunas ito ng luha.

"They are not mad. Liam's not speaking to you but it doesn't mean he doesn't accept
you." Tugon ni Lianna.

"Si Vance naman," sumulyap ang ginang sa kanya bago nagpatuloy.

"Give him time, bunso kasi, saka gustong-gusto no'n ng kapatid na babae. Kaya close
na close sila ni Vanna." Natatawang dagdag ng ginang. Napalunok siya nang sumulyap
ulit si Lianna sa kanya.

"Si Vanna Lei po?" nahihiyang sambit ni Ashley. Vaughn cleared his throat.

"Vanna Lei isn't mad that you are her sister. Nabigla lang siya noong una." Umpisa
nito.

"She's only mad because she was the one who investigated that case." Sumulyap ang
lalaki sa kanya.

Is Vanna Lei a cop? Bakit ito ang nag-imbestiga?

Bumalik na naman ang kaba niya kanina. They must know her involvement. Kaya gano'n
na lamang makatingin ang mga ito sa kanya.

Ashley held her hand under the table.

She felt a little relaxed at her friend's gesture.

"Knowing that Ashley's my daughter she was sure I was the one who manipulated
everything to oppose the result of her investigation."

Nagkatinginan silang magkaibigan.

"Nagta-trabaho po ba siya sa FBI?" tanong ni Ashley. Nagkatinginan lang ang mag-
asawa pero hindi na sumagot pa.

There was a long silence. It was awkward. Idagdag pa ang hindi maalis-alis na kaba
sa dibdib niya sa isiping alam ng mga ito na siya ang involved doon.

"Kumain na tayo?" alok ni Lianna sa kanila. Wala silang nagawa kundi kumain na
lang.

Napansin niyang maya't-mayang nagtitinginan ang mag-asawa saka napapasulyap sa

kanya.

Hindi tuloy mawala-wala ang kaba sa dibdib niya.

"Thea." Napapitlag siya nang magsalita si Lianna. Napatingin siya rito. Parang nag-
alangan pa itong nagsalita.

"Is Vance the father of your child?" Napatingin ito sa tiyan niya.

Her heart beats fast. Vance haven't told them yet.

Does she have the right to tell his parents first?

Siniko siya ng kaibigan nang hindi siya sumagot.

Huminga siya ang malalim saka tumango.

Nagkatingin ang mag-asawa. Their reactions became wary.

"Hindi pa po ba sinabi ni Vance sa inyo?" Ashley asked.

"Vance never opens up to us when it comes to his personal problems." Lianna
answered. Para itong maiiyak. Tumingala ito sa asawa.

Tumingin naman si Vaughn sa kanya. Hindi niya alam kung ano ang kalakip ng emosyon
sa titig na 'yon pero pinanginigan siya.

"He's only closed to his grandparents in Ireland. Mr. & Mrs. Denver Filan." Vaughn
stated.

What she heard made her heart sank. Pinanghinaan siya ng tuhod.

Ashley looked wary, too.

Ilang beses siyang huminga ng malalim nang makarating sila ng condo. Her heart's
beating fast.
Nakaramdam siya ng kirot sa tiyan.

"Hey," nag-aalalang tumingin sa kanya ni Ashley.

"Masakit," Napahawak siya sa tiyan.

"Relax, okay?" Ashley held her waist. Inalalayan siya nitong umupo sa couch. She
inhaled deeply and closed her eyes. Pinilit niyang pakalmahin ang nararamdaman.

She's fervently praying second after second to spare her child from the wrath of
karma.

Her heart beats eventually subsided and her breathing became normal. Unti-unting
nawala ang sakit sa sinapupunan niya.

"This revelations will do you no good, Thea." Ashley mumbled.

A tear escaped her eye.

Ang tanga kasi niya.

She's intelligently stupid.

Nakipaglaro kasi siya sa tadhana.

Vance was the last person she expected to see when she went back to the country.

But destiny led her to him.

Siguro para ipaalam sa kanya na hindi niya matatakasan kailanman ang kasalanan
niya.
"Sumama ka na lang muna sa akin pabalik ng New Jersey. Just confront all of these
after you give birth." Ashley stated.

Tiningnan niya ito.

She inhaled and exhaled to relax herself.

Napailing siya.

No. She's not running away again.

She can't be a coward forever.

#WhereAreMyIntelligentReaders? #LabasNaKayo! Libre na kayong mang-okray. Hehe! Free

hula na rin sa ending. Di na ako magagalit. Nag-matured na ako. Promise. I loves
you alls.
=================

41. Shutting Down

Words could do so much that it could shut down your entire system.

Thea tried hard to calm down in the next few hours. Okay na sana siya kaya lang
biglang tumawag ang mommy niya.

She's mad at the same time prying about her lunch with the old Filans.

Mad because her aunt called her mom asking why they were not invited on her
wedding. Nakita daw siya sa restaurant at buntis na pala, hindi man lang nila
nalaman na kinasal na daw pala siya. Pinagalitan siya nito dahil mahigpit nitong
ibinilin na huwag siyang maglalalabas

Prying because her aunt said she was with the Filans. Tinatanong kung si Vance
Luanne daw ba ang asawa niya dahil nabanggit na rin ng ilang kamag-anak nila na
kasama niya ito noon sa event ng ate niya. She's asking if they already know that
Vance is the father of her baby.

Her mom's already coercing her let the man stand for their baby. She had to turn
off her phone at the middle of her nagging. Nakaramdam na naman kasi siya ng kirot
sa tiyan.
Pabaling-baling siya ng higa kinagabihan. She wanted to relax but she just can't.

Tama lang yata na umalis na lang siya. Everything is just so complicated and
heartbreaking.

Pero kung hindi niya haharapin ang multo ng nakaraan alam naman niyang hahabol at
hahabol ito sa kanya kahit saan.

Her eyes welled up again. She doesn't know what to do.

Bumangon siya nang makarinig siya ng katok sa pinto.

"Gusto mo samahan muna kitang matulog?" Ashley asked the moment she opened

the door.

"Hindi nga ako makatulog." Lumabas siya at nagtungo sa may living area. She sat on
the couch. Ashley followed and sat beside her.

"I can't leave you like this, Thea. It's either I'll stay or you'll come with me."
Ashley stated.

"I haven't decided yet." Naguguluhan niyang sambit. Sunod-sunod ang ginawang niyang
pagbuntong-hininga. Nagtubig na naman kasi ang mga mata niya.

Kinabig siya ng kaibigan at ipinahilig sa balikat nito. This is the second time
Ashley did this. Ayaw na niyang balikan ang unang beses.

Sana kasi hinarap na lang niya ang ginawa niya dati. Hindi sana siya nakauwi noon.
Hindi sana sila nagkita ulit ni Vance. Hindi sana niya naramdaman ang kung ano mang
naramdaman niya sa binata kaya nabuo ang baby nila.
They both looked at each other when the main door opened.

Nagulat na lang sila nang biglang may magandang babaeng pumasok. Nakasuot ito ng
sexy dress. Napatayo agad silang magkaibigan. Pati ang babae ay nagulat sa kanila.

Itatanong pa lang sana niya kung sino ito nang makitang pumasok ang guwardiya ng
building akay ang lasing na lasing na si Vance.

"Hey!" Vance uttered raising his hand when he saw them. Papikit-pikit na ang mga
mata nito. Agad ding bumaba ang kamay nito dahil sa labis na kalasingan.

"Sino ka?" tanong niya sa babae.

"My baby!" Vance said looking at her tummy. Napalunok ang babaeng nagbukas kanina
ng pinto.

"S-sorry, he said he's not married." Hinging

paumanhin ng babae.

Iniabot nito sa kanya ang coat ni Vance pati ang keycard ng binata, wallet at susi
ng sasakyan.

She gave Vance that keycard before so she doesn't need to open the door for him.
Pero hindi nito ginamit ni minsan. He said he doesn't want to invade her space but
he kept the card anyway for emergency purposes.

"He's too drunk to bring himself home." Paliwanag ng babae.

"Pakipasok na lang sa kuwarto, kuya." Sinamahan niya ang guwardiya. Ashley was left
on the living room with the girl.
Vance's eyes immediately closed when he was deposited at the bed. Nagpasalamat siya
sa guwardiya at sinamahan ito palabas ng kuwarto.

Paglabas niya ay wala na ang babae.

"Pinaalis ko na." Ashley said when her eyes roamed around.

Napatango na lang siya.

She inhaled deeply. Everything torments her. Hindi na niya masundan ang nangyayari.

"Will you be okay? Gusto mo tabi na lang tayo sa guest room?" Ashley asked.

Napailing siya. She doesn't want to. Pakiramdam niya kasi ay bilang na ang ang araw
na makakasama niya ang binata.

She will have to tell him everything as long as she has the opportunity. At
sigurado siyang lalayuan siya nito.

"So you have a plan to tell him everything?" Ashley asked. She nodded.

"Kailan?"

"Bukas na bukas din," saad niya rito. Hindi na nakaimik pa ang kaibigan.

They were both silent for a while.

"Sasama ako pabalik ng New Jersey." Saad niya sa kaibigan.

Tumitig naman ito sa kanya.

Ngumiti siya ng alanganin.

Ashley nodded.

"Basta

magrelax ka lang para hindi mapahamak ang anak niyo, okay?" Paalala nito. She only
nodded and smiled before going back to her room.

Binihisan niya muna ang binata bago nagpasyang matulog na rin.

AND yes she was able to sleep inhaling his familiar scent mixed with some liquor.

"I guess it's not yet time to tell him everything."

Napabangon siya agad nang marinig magsalita ang kaibigan. Kakabukas pa lamang niya
ng mata, kinakausap na siya agad nito.

"Kanina ka pa diyan?" tanong niya rito.

"Yes at kanina pa umalis si Vance." Saad nito at umupo sa gilid ng kama.

"Don't you think it's a sign na hindi mo muna dapat sabihin sa kanya?" Ashley
asked.

Huminga siya ng malalim. She brushed her face using her palm.

"Magpapa-book na kasi ako ng flight. I'm planning to get the earliest flight." Saad
nito. Tiningnan lang niya ang kaibigan.

"Isasama kita sa reservation?" paninigurado nito.

Napatango siya.

"Okay," Ashley said before storming out of the room.

Ashley was able to book a flight. In four days, they will be leaving the country.

She's been thinking all day long how to tell Vance about it. Balak niya itong
puntahan sa opisina o sa bahay nito kinabukasan.

She finally made up her mind and so that night she was able to sleep early.
Naalimpungatan lang siya nang makarinig ng pag-doorbell.

Nagkatinginan pa sila ni Ashley nang sabay silang lumabas ng kani-kanilang kuwarto.

May sapantaha siyang si Vance na naman

iyon. Itinago niya kasi ang keycard ng condo na ginamit nito kagabi.

True enough, Vance was with a woman again. Ang babae mismo ang umaalalay rito.
Hindi niya alam kung dahil sa pagod o pagkasira ng tulog kaya siya nainis.

Hindi niya ito pinapasok sa kuwarto at hinayaan na lamang na sa couch matulog. She
went to her room and slept.
"Where's Ashley?" tanong niya nang makitang mag-isa lang na nakayuko si Vance sa
dining area kinabukasan. Sapo nito ang noo sa harap ng isang tasang tsaa.

Hindi nagsalita ang binata. Nanatili itong nakayuko.

Huminga siya ng malalim.

"Bakit dito ka nagpapahatid sa mga babae? Puwede ka namang umuwi sa bahay niyo?"
tanong niya rito.

Hindi niya alam kung bakit biglang bumalik ang pagkayamot niya kagabi nang
mapagbuksan itong lasing at may kasamang babae.

"Bullshit!" Vance exclaimed. Pinalo pa nito ang lamesa na sanhi para tumilapon ang
laman ng tasa. Agad itong tumayo at tumingin sa kanya ng matalim.

Napapitlag siya. Her knees started to quiver.

She looked at the guestroom door. Nagbabakasakaling narinig ni Ashley ang lakas ng
boses ng binata at lumabas ito ng kuwarto.

"Waiting for Ashley's rescue?" pagalit na asik ng binata sa kanya.

The rage in his eyes was the same rage she saw three nights ago. Pinanginigan siya
ng buto. She closed her eyes and tried to relax.
"Hindi. I was just asking why you're -." Mahina niyang paliwanag pero agad iyong
naputol nang magsalita ang binata.

"So you're asking me why I am staying near you?" Vance said gritting his teeth. He
smirked.

"You wanna hear the truth?" Lumapit ito sa kinaroroonan niya. She wanted to step
back but she can't even move a finger.

"You wanna hear the second reason why people stay?" He bit his lower lip in anger.

Napasinghap siya nang lumapit ulit ito. He's only few inches away from her. The
ferocity in his eyes suffocates her whole being.

She felt like he wants to strangle her neck.

"Because they are so mad they want to witness with their very eyes how the person
falls down and die." Madiin nitong saad. Nagngangalit ang panga nito sa bawat
salita.

She tried to deny that this is actually happening.

She can only feel his fiery nothing else. AND it makes her heart churn in pain.
Parang may malaking nakadagan sa dibdib niya. Nahihirapan siyang huminga.

"You were responsible of my grandparents' death!" Vance muttered gritting his

teeth.

Nasapo niya ang dibdib. She couldn't breath.

"The only reason why I am not strangling your neck right now is that baby inside
your womb." Tumitig ito ng matalim sa mga mata niya.

Hindi siya makapagsalita.

"You wait until the baby comes out and I will kill you with my naked hands." He
said before turning away.

Sumikip ang dibdib niya at nahirapang makahinga.

She felt a pang of pain on her belly.

This is not happening!

This couldn't be happening!

Her eyes get blurry with tears.

Then she felt it.

Her body froze.

Her eyes closed.

And her mind shuts.

#PleaseDoNotAskForUpdate #IamHurtingInside Naiiyak ako.

=================

42. Where?

There are two kinds of people that you should never believe - a liar and an enraged
man.

Third Person's POV

Vance walks back and forth inside his pent suite.

"I swear I'm going to make her pay real hard." He muttered gritting his teeth.

"Buti na lang pala bumili ako ng popcorn bago ako nagpunta rito." Mac chuckled.
He's sitting at the sofa. Naka-de kwatro pa ito at kumakain ng popcorn habang
sinusundan ng tingin ang kaibigang lakad ng lakad.
"Babarilin kita kapag hindi ka tumigil sa katatawa!" Asik ni Vance sa kaibigan.
Nagngangalit ang panga nito.

Mas lalo lang namang natawa si Mac. Tumayo ito at nagtungo sa drawer. He took the
Caliber .45 Pistol and handed it to Vance. Agad naman itong kinuha ng isa.

"Shoot me, Vance." Dumipa si Mac sa harap ng kaibigan.

Sa inis ay ikinasa ni Vance ang baril at itinutok sa ulo nito. However, instead of
feeling nervous, Mac smirked at him.

"Gago!" Sambit naman ng binata bago ibinato ang baril pabalik kay Mac. Natatawa
naman nitong sinalo ang baril.

Mac went back to the sofa. Ipinatong nito sa center table ang baril. Prente ulit
itong umupo sa sofa at itinuloy ang pagkain ng popcorn.

Vance sat on the single couch. Sapo nito ang ulo habang nakayuko. He's breathing
heavily.

Mac only stared at him.

"Do you remember Thea's lab partner in high school?" Mac asked a while later.
Napatingala si Vance sa kaibigan.

"First time ko sanang pumasok sa klase

no'n ng maaga eh. Kababalik ko lang mula sa suspension ko." Natatawang kuwento ni
Mac.

Vance brushed his face using his palm. He doesn't want to remember that. Not this
time.

"Pero 'tang ina sinalubong mo ako tapos ang sabi mo lang, tara may pupuntahan
tayo."
Vance wants to stop Mac from narrating. Kaya lang alam niyang hindi nito
mapipigilan ang kaibigan kaya hinayaan na lamang niya ito.

"Pagkakita mo sa lalaki pinagbubugbog mo na agad." Natatawa nitong saad.

"Tapos no'ng ako na ang sumuntok bigla ka nalang umalis." Binuntutan ulit ito ng
binata ng malakas na pagtawa.

Vance's forehead creased. Inis itong tumitig sa kaibigan.

"Why are you telling me that? Para ipaalala kung gaano ako kahibang sa babaeng
'yon?" Asik ni Vance.

"I didn't say that." Natatawa namang saad ng isa. Mac grinned widely.

"Ang sinasabi ko lang ikaw 'yong tipo ng taong kapag gusto talagang manakit wala
nang sali-salita." Seryoso nitong sambit kay Vance. The latter didn't speak.

Sumandal ito sa sofa at pumikit. His breathing calmed down a bit.

"Just in case Thea don't know you well, you have to remind her that you don't mean
what you said to her." Mac added.

Napatitig si Vance sa kaibigan at huminga ng malalim.

Mac stood up when the doorbell rings. Pinapasok nito ang dalawang waiter na nagdala
ng mga orders ni Vance.

"Are you sure you will drink this all?" baling ni Mac sa binata.

Vance didn't answer. Kumuha lang ito ng isang bote at agad na binuksan saka
itinungga ang laman.
"Seriously, this is not the right time for

you to get drunk. Kailangan mong kausapin si Thea para bawiin 'yong mga sinabi mo."

Vance didn't hear his friend. Itinuloy lang nito ang pagtungga ng alak.

"Kapag pinalipas mo ang araw na 'to nang hindi nagpapaliwanag tatakasan ka no'n at
hinding-hindi mo siya mahahanap kahit bali-baliktarin mo ang mundo." Paalala ulit
nito.

Vance looked at Mac. Nagtagis ang bagang nito.

"Even if she'll hide in hell, I will find her." He uttered seriously.

Napailing na lang ang kaibigan saka kumuha din isang bote ng alak.

"Cheers then!" Mac uttered as he raised the bottle.

Sinabayan niya ang kaibigang gustong magpakalunod sa alak. Mac knows that Vance has
a mind of his own.

Kaya kahit ano pang sabihin nito sa kaibigan ay wala itong magagawa. Vance would do
as he pleases.
______

Vance reached for another bottle at the center table. Umiikot na ang paningin niya.
Ilang oras na silang walang imik na nag-iinuman. Itinungga niya ang bote pero wala
na pala itong laman.

To his dismay, he threw the empty bottle at the wall creating a loud noise around
the suite.

"Hey!" Mac shouted.

Vance shook his head for a couple of times.

No. He isn't like his fucking brother. It's insane to throw bottles on the wall. He
should throw it at his enemy instead.

He smirked at himself.

Sino ba kasi ang kaaway niya?

Fuck.

"You should've let her explain. Baka wala naman talaga siyang kinalaman sa nangyari
sa grandparents mo."

His friend stated. He's not as drunk as him. Pakonti-konti lang kasi ang inom nito.
Mac only finished two bottles of whiskey while he already drunk thrice as much.

Napailing siya. He swallowed hard.

"She doesn't need to explain. I was ready to forget everything she did. Heck, I
have already forgiven her." He muttered. Mac stared at him but didn't say a word.
"Does she really think I wouldn't know that she's running away with my child?" He
mumbled gritting his teeth.

"Siya na nga ang dahilan ng pagkawala ng grandparents ko. Pati anak ko ilalayo pa
niya?" He thought when he's drunk his fucking eyes won't water but the mere thought
of Thea brings out all the pent up emotions inside him.

Mac only inhaled deeply at his sentiments.

"Pinatawad ko na siya sa lahat ng ginawa niya but she's really bound to hurt me
over and over again." He added. Marahas niyang pinunas ang mata.

Fucking eyes.

He took another bottle at the table.

"And she'd tell right in front of my face that I should be going home than go to
her condo?" He pointed the bottle on his face.

Mac laughed at what he said.

"Baka naman nagselos lang 'yon Vancee baby kasi babae ang naghahatid sa 'yo do'n.
Nagtampo ka naman agad." Natatawa nitong saad.

Nainis siya bigla sa pagtawa ng kaibigan kaya naibato niya ang bote rito. Agad
naman itong nakailag.

"Ang sama mo talaga kiligin." Tatawa-tawa pa nitong saad nang makaiwas.

"Gago ka ah!" Sigaw niya rito. Seryoso na siya't lahat, tumatawa pa rin ito. Tatayo
sana siya para suntukin

ang kaibigan pero bigla siyang nahilo at napaupo ulit.

Naiiling na lang siyang kumuha ng isa pang bote ng alak.

Napangiti siya nang may laman ang nakuhang bote. Itinungga na lamang niya iyon.

It's better to drink than talking to fucking Macintosh.

_______

Naalimpungatan siya nang marinig ang doorbell. Sunod-sunod ito at wala man lang
interval.

His head is throbbing like crazy. Sa sahig na pala siya ng living room nakatulog.
Si Mac naman ay mahimbing ang tulog sa may couch.

His knees are still weak because of hangover. Hindi niya alam kung anong oras na
sila nakatulog.

Pinilit niyang naglakad papuntang pintuan dahil wala yatang balak ang sino mang
nagdo-doorbell na tumigil.

"Vance, where's Thea?" bungad ng ina niya nang mapagbuksan ito. Katabi nito si
Ashley na nakatitig din sa kanya.

Niluwagan niya ang bukas ng pinto. His mind couldn't think straight. Sobrang sakit
ng ulo niya.

"Asan si Thea?" Ashley asked. Galit ang boses nito.

Inis siyang napatingin sa dalaga.

"Hindi ba kayo ang nagpa-book ng tickets papuntang New Jersey? Bakit sa akin ka
magtatanong?" galit niyang tugon rito.

Tiningnan siya ng matiim ni Ashley.

"Iniwan ko kayo kahapon sa condo, Vance. Now, she's nowhere to be found. Kung hindi
mo siya kasama, nasaan siya?" Madiin nitong saad. Nainis siya sa tono ng pananalita
nito. Idagdag pa ang sakit ng ulo niya at panghihina ng tuhod.

"Are you accusing me of abduction?" Balik-tanong niya rito.

"Vance Luanne." Saway ng ina niya. Sinulyapan naman niya ito. Huminga siya ng
malalim.

His head really aches.

"NO pero imposibleng umalis na lang siya bigla nang hindi man lang nagsasabi sa
akin." Ashley stated.

"Maliban na lang kung may ginawa o nasabi ka sa kanyang nakasakit sa damdamin

niya." Dagdag nito.

He pursed his lips and tried hard not to say anything.

"Ano'ng ginawa mo kay Thea, Vance?" Nang-aakusa ang tinig nito.

"I swear kapag may nangyaring masama kay Thea at sa anak niya, mananagot ka Vance."
Galit nitong saad.

Nagtagis ang bagang niya sa narinig.

Mananagot siya kapag may nangyaring masama sa anak ni Thea?

Is she stupid?

That's also his child for christ's sake!

"Get out of here!" Madiin niyang saad sa dalaga. Napatingin naman ito sa ina niya.

"Ako na lang muna ang kakausap." Saad ng mommy niya rito. Tumingin ng matalim si
Ashley sa kanya bago nagpasyang lumabas at iwan sila.

His mom was about to speak when he stopped her.

"Not now, MOM. Please." Naglakad siya papunta sa single couch. Nagkalat ang mga
bote, basag man o hindi, sa paligid. Sumunod ang ina sa kanya.

"Please don't nag at me, mom. I have a throbbing head and hangover. I couldn't
think straight." Dagdag niya. His mom stared at him for a moment. Tinatantiya nito
ang sasabihin.

"Fine. Gather yourself. Pero umuwi ka sa bahay saka tayo mag-usap." Saad ng ina
bago tumalikod.

=================

43. Conclusion

Disclaimer: The following quotation is not for Thea. It's for you. Haha!

No person is ever missing, they are just lost. There's a difference. You don't need
to find them. They actually just had to find either themselves or their way home.

Vance was busy packing his clothes when his mom appeared.

"You're leaving again?" Lianna asked. Napasulyap siya sa ina na nakatayo sa bukana
ng pinto.

Tatlong oras ang lumipas bago siya nakauwi ng bahay. He was relieved when his mom
weren't waiting for him at the living room when he went home. Pero talaga yatang
hinintay siya nito.

"Patay na nga ang lolo't lola mo, sa kanila mo pa rin sasabihin ang problema mo."
There's sadness in his mom's voice. Lumapit ito at umupo sa kama.

Huminga siya ng malalim. He hate confrontations. He hate telling what he feels to a

lot of people. His mom may be just one but she is a whole lot of people, at least
for him.

"Son, you can tell me everything. I'm your mother." Saad nito sa kanya. She was
staring at him.

He closed the suitcase and looked at her.

He swallowed hard. Confiding to a mother is the hardest especially for a man like
him.

BUT he admits that If there is one person who could ever understand a child better,
that would be his mom.
"Thea is pregnant with my child." He confided. His mom smiled. Ashley might've told
her.

"She's..." napabuntong-hininga siya. Hindi niya alam kung saan mag-uumpisa.

Nanatili lang namang nakatitig ang ina.

"I love her, mom." He inhaled deeply. Ngumiti naman ang ina.

Her stare encourages him to speak his mind.

"Maybe I just realized it when she started working for my pharmaceutical lab. Maybe
it was a long time ago. I am only sure of one thing - I love her." Pahayag niya.
Ngumiti ang ina niya pero hindi ito nagsalita.

"She was my crush or dream girl perhaps na hindi ko lang maamin noon." Dagdag niya.

"I knew it." His mom smiled. He looked at her puzzled.

"The girl without a tick - always invited but never appears. I knew then that one
of my boys maybe into her. Hindi lang ako nagtanong." Saad ng ina.

Hindi siya nakapagsalita. He was sure he likes her before. He wasn't just sure if
it was love. Napatunayan lang niyang mahal niya ang dalaga nang nakasama na ito
araw-araw at unti-unting nakilala.

"Tell me something I don't know, son." Lianna said softly.

Ramdam siguro ng ina na marami pa siyang hindi sinasabi. His mom always has a way
to know everything. Kahit hindi nila sabihin, alam na alam nito kung may dinaramdam
sila.

Huminga siya ng malalim.

"I was hurt when she chose to dump me because her friend is mad at us." Hayag niya
sa ina. His mom only pursed her lips. Funny, but he can't even feel the pain he
felt before.
"Tapos ngayong okay na ang lahat at hindi na galit si Ashley sa atin, iiwan niya
ulit ako." dagdag niya. Their family already knew that Ashley is leaving. His
father personally checked Ashley's flight details in their airline company. Kaya
tinanong siya ng ama kung alam niyang sasama si Thea sa kaibigan dahil kasali daw
ito sa ipina-book ni Ashley.

He was so devastated. He's trying hard

to accept everything. Natatanggap na niya. Nawawala na 'yong galit niya sa tuwing

nakikita ang dalaga at iniisip ang magiging anak nila. Then, he'd suddenly learn
that she already decided to go away from him.

Ang bilis lang nito laging magpasya na iwan siya. 'Yon ang pinakang ikinasasama ng
loob niya.

Si Ashley pa ang una nitong tinanong pagkakita sa kanya. He felt like he wasn't
really part of Thea's world.

Kaya noong tanungin nito kung bakit hindi na lang siya dito sa bahay nila umuwi ay
tuluyan na siyang nagalit. His head was aching that time. May hangover pa siya. He
wasn't able to think straight.

Tapos bigla na namang pumasok sa isip niya ang nabasang resulta ng imbestigasyon ng
ate niya tungkol sa naging sunog sa restobar ng hotel kung saan naka-check in ang
grandparents niya.

"Mom, were you aware of ate Vanna's investigation of the fire that killed lolo and
lola?" tanong niya sa ina matapos ang ilang minutong katahimikan.

Lianna inhaled deeply before nodding.

"About a girl who deliberately set out a fire at the bar and restaurant after being
harassed by few men." Saad ng ina.

Ang sunog na 'yon ang naging dahilan para mamamatay ang grandparents niya. They
died of suffocation. They were too old to get out fastly. Sinisi niya noon ang mga
caregiver na kasa-kasama ng mga ito. He even have them blacklisted for that job.
Kung nasa kuwarto sana ang mga ito, nailabas sana ang grandparents niya nang mag-
alarm ang building.
He also initiated the closing of the entire building and its contractors when it

was found out that they did not use proper materials.

Sa groundfloor lang ng hotel ang naging sunog, sa may restobar sa groundfloor.

Since his grandparents were already old, they were booked on the second floor.

If the building contractors followed the prescribed materials, the fire and smoke
would've have not reach the second floor. Mabilis lang din kasing naapula ang apoy.

"I know. Your dad knows." Lianna added inhaling deeply.

"Why didn't you tell me?" may hinanakit niyang saad sa ina. Hindi naman nakasagot
agad si Lianna.

"Were you aware that Thea was the original suspect?"

Tumango ang ina.

"Yes but Ashley admitted that she was the one who set out that fire. Inisip namin
na baka nga nagkamali lang talaga ang mga sources ng ate mo. They were together.
Baka napagkamalan lang talaga si Thea."Mahaba nitong paliwanag.

"And you believed her?" Hindi makapaniwala niyang bulalas.

Vanna never commits mistake in her job. That was always his sister's rule. Kaya
napakaimposible na nagkamali ito.

"She gave a convincing story to the police." Tugon ng ina.

Hindi na siya nakasagot pa. Thea must really explain this thing.
Bakit ba kasi hindi niya ito pinagpaliwanag muna bago sinabihan ng kung anu-ano?

"We didn't tell you because we learned that it was Ashley. Your dad, after a long
time of disregarding the girl, felt like it's about time he'll help her out."

Sometimes, he is mad that his mom's too nice.

She

is too good to be true.

Nagawa nitong tanggapin ng gano'n-gano'n lang ang ginawa ng ama.

"Why didn't you get mad at dad when he agreed to donate a sperm for some desperate
woman?" Tanong niya sa ina. Tinitigan niya ito ng mataman. Ngumiti naman ang ina sa
sinabi niya.

"Contrary to what you think, I was so mad. Really mad. We didn't talk for almost a
month. Araw-araw siyang humihingi ng tawad. Araw-araw siyang nagpapaliwanag."
Tumitig ang ina sa kanya ng diretso.

He can not see any traces of pain and sorrow in his mom's eyes as she narrated.
Parang hindi masakit ang napagdaanan nito.

"Your dad isn't that kind of religious. Hindi nga 'yan pumapasok ng simbahan dati."
Natatawang saad ng ina. Nanatili lang siyang tahimik.

"For him, donating a sperm is just like giving away a material thing. No
obligations whatsoever."

He inhaled deeply.

"Na sobrang taliwas sa paniniwala ko kasi lumaki ako ng probinsiya at taong

simbahan lagi. Que donate o ginawa ng natural, anak pa rin niya iyon." Lianna
explained further.
His eyes were glued on his mom.

"BUT that was his principle and belief that time so I had to live with it. Hindi ko
naman puwedeng baguhin ng gano'n gano'n lang ang paniniwala niya."

Ngumiti ang ina niya. He was looking for traces of bitterness but there wasn't any.

"You're a martyr, mom." He mumbled.

"People always say that but I am still alive." His

mom said with a sincere smile.

"Hindi nakamamatay ang magpatawad ng paulit-ulit. Ang mas nakamamatay 'yong nag-
iipon ng galit sa dibdib." Natatawa nitong dagdag.

"Forgiveness...that's what true love is and that's how it should be."

He smiled at his mom's remark.

"I wish I could be like you, mom. Always rational, always forgiving."

Ngumiti ang ina sa sinabi niya. Tumitig ito sa kanya.

"Naalala mo ba 'yong laging sinasabi ng lolo at lola mo dati?" Lianna said inhaling
deeply.

"Kapag nalibot na daw nila lahat ng siyudad sa mundo, puwede na silang mamatay."

Hindi siya nakaimik sa sinabi ng ina. He remembers that.

They all know that New Jersey was their grandparents' last stop. Babalik na sana
ang mga ito sa Ireland pagkatapos no'n dahil nakumpleto na ng mga itong puntahan
ang lahat ng siyudad sa buong mundo.

"Baka naman oras na talaga nilang mamatay no'ng gabing 'yon kasi natapos na nila
ang dapat nilang gawin."

He tried to suppress a tear with what his mom said.

"They were old that time. Tanggapin na lang natin na may hangganan talaga ang
buhay." Sambit ng ina.

"Like, I can't be here forever, son. Time will come that your dad and I will die
and you'll have to live with it." Dagdag nito.

That made his tear fell. Nag-iba siya ng tingin at mabilis na nagpunas ng mata.

"Your grandparents, for sure, don't want you hurting because you are torn between
their memories and your possible future with Thea and your child." Lianna stated.

Nakinig lang siya sa ina.

"Kung may isang bagay kang hindi dapat kagalitan iyon ay ang mga bagay na nangyari
na. Kasi kahit mag-tumbling ka pa, wala ka nang magagawa." Sambit ng ina niya.

He returned his gaze at his mom. He pursed his lips. He knows that his mom has a
point.

"All you can control is how you react at present. Hahayaan mo bang masira ng
nakaraan kung anumang magandang bagay ang mayroon sa kasalukuyan?" tanong nito.

Napailing siya.

His mother is absolutely right. Katulad na lang ng nangyari kahapon. He was so mad
that he said something out of anger. Hindi naman dapat. He could've controlled his
emotions.
"Go find Thea, son."

Tumango siya at napangiti sa ina.

"Thanks, mom." He said and kissed her forehead. Ngumiti naman ito at nagpunas ng
mata.

He immediately stood up. He can't waste any minute.

#ThisChapterIsDedicatedToAllMothers Your children need you no matter how old they

are. Please be there.

If you happen to be a child without a mother, huwag kang ma-bitter kay Lianna. You
are motherless at this point because you are strong enough to handle everything.
#HindiKaKasingWeakNgMgaFilan

=================

44. Waking Up
Waking up is not about the breaking of a new day but finding yourself in a place
where you should have always been since day one.

Thea woke up in an unfamiliar room. Her heart raced when everything she saw is
white. Kinapa niya ang magkabilang pulso kung may nakakabit na IV line. Nakahinga
siya ng maluwag nang wala siyang nakapa.

She remembered passing out after Vance turned away. Kinapa niya ang tiyan, it's
still bulging. She could feel her child on her belly. Alam niyang buhay na buhay
ito.

Naguguluhan siyang bumangon at umupo sa gilid ng kama.

"Ashley," she called out but it became a whisper. Walang sumagot. Wala ring bakas
na may kasama siya sa loob ng malawak na silid.

Tumayo siya at nagtungo sa may pintuan.

Hallway ang bumungad sa mga mata niya. All was painted in cream. Nasapo niya ang
dibdib.

Patay na ba siya?

She shook her head.

NO. She can't be in heaven. She's not allowed in there for sure.

Binaybay niya ang kahabaan ng hallway. Wala ni isang tao siyang makita o
makasalubong man lang.
How would she know where she is?

"Good evening ma'am!"

Nasapo niya ang dibdib nang biglang may lalaking nagsalita pagliko niya.

"Oh my god!" she exclaimed. Napahawak siya sa dibdib sa sobrang gulat. Puti kasi
ang suot na uniform ng lalaki.

Alanganin namang ngumiti ang lalaki.

"Sorry po kung nagulat ko kayo, ma'am." Hinging paumanhin nito. Nakahinga siya ng
maluwag. At least the man has a friendly aura. Kung hindi, mahihintakutan

na talaga siya ng tuluyan.

"Pupunta po sana ako sa cabin niyo para itanong kung magse-serve na kami ng dinner
niyo, ma'am." Paliwanag ng lalaki.

Cabin?

If she's in a hotel, it should've been suite not cabin.

"Asan ba ako?" Tanong niya rito.

"VLF Cruise Line ma'am. We are traversing along the pacific ocean. Papunta po tayo
ng Micronesia"

Her jaw literally dropped.

Naguguluhan siyang sumunod sa lalaki ng maglakad ito. Nag-elevator sila at lumabas
sa deck na puro restaurants.

Pumasok sila sa isang Korean restaurant. Ipinaghila pa siya ng lalaki ng upuan.

Isang lalaking unipormado rin ng puti ang lumapit sa table niya.

"Hi, ma'am Thea. I am Renz Robinson, the head captain of this cruise, welcome
aboard." Saad ng lalaki. Nagtanggal pa ito ng cap at bahagyang yumuko.

Kilala siya nito?

"Enjoy your meal ma'am." Saad nito bago tumalikod.

"Captain." Tawag niya rito. Lumingon naman ito.

"Bakit mo ako kilala? Sino'ng nagdala sa akin rito?" Tanong niya.

Ngumiti lang ang kapitan pero umalis din nang hindi sinasagot ang tanong niya.

"Ma'am Thea, sila po ang makakasama niyo habang wala pa po si sir dito sa cruise."
Saad ng lalaking sumundo sa kanya kanina nang may lumapit na dalawang babae.

Ngumiti ang mga ito sa kanya. Hindi niya natandaan ang pangalan na binanggit ng
lalaki. Iniisip niya kasi kung sino ang nagdala sa kanya sa cruise ship.

Vance played her hair as

they both stared at the horizon.

"I have an idea," Vance muttered a while later.

"What is it?" tanong naman niya sa binata.

He kept playing on her hair.

"Sa tuwing magbubuntis ka, we'll go cruising. Tapos kung saang bansa ka aabutin ng
panganganak, 'yon ang ipapangalan natin sa mga babies natin." Hayag ni Vance.

She shook her head. Imposibleng si Vance. Galit na galit ito sa kanya. Siya ang
dahilan kung bakit namatay ang grandparents nito. She was so scared when she found
out that there were two casualties in the fire. Ang masaklap, grandparents pala ni
Vance ang dalawang matanda.

Pinanginigan siya ng maalala ang nangyaring komprontasyon. Vance knew that it was
her and he is so mad.

"The only reason why I am not strangling your neck right now is that baby inside
your womb." Tumitig ito ng matalim sa mga mata niya.

Hindi siya makapagsalita.

"You wait until the baby comes out and I will kill you with my naked hands." He
said before turning away.

That was her last memory before she passed out. She closed her eyes forcibly. Ayaw
na niyang maalala.
"Ma'am pagkatapos daw po ng dinner kailangan nating pumunta kay Dr. Charie."
Paalala ng babaeng kaharap. May mga pagkain na pala sa harap nila, hindi man lang
niya napansin.

"Sinong nag-hire sa inyo para bantayan ako?" Napatingin siya sa dalawa.

"Crew po kami ng cruise ship ma'am. Si Captain Robinson po ang nag-delegate sa

amin." Magalang na saad ng isa.

Napabuntong-hininga

siya. Siguradong hindi rin alam ng mga ito kung sino ang nagdala sa kanya sa cruise
ship.

Tinanong na lamang niya kung anong petsa na sa kasalukuyan. Napahawak siya sa

pisngi nang sabihin ng mga ito ang petsa. Ibig sabihin ilang oras lang siyang
nakatulog. Parang bumawi lang siya ng puyat niya kagabi kaya nakatulog siya.

"How are you feeling?" nakangiting tanong ng OB-Gyne sa kanya nang umupo siya sa
kaharap nitong silya. The cruise ship's clinic has state-of-the-art facilities. May
emergency room pa ito, operating room, recovery room at bago siya pumasok ng
opisina ng OB-Gyne ay nakita pa niya sa dulo ng hallway ang isolation room.

"Okay naman pero kumusta po ang baby ko? Nawalan po kasi ako ng malay kaninang
umaga." Tanong niya sa doctor.

"Yes. I saw your chart from St. Luke's this morning." Nakangiti nitong saad.

Ibig sabihin dinala pa siya sa ospital kaninang umaga bago siya dinala dito sa
barko?
"The baby's okay. Wala namang naging epekto ng pagkahimatay mo. You were just
stressed but baby girl's very strong." Nakangiti nitong paliwanag.

Baby girl?

"Babae ang baby ko?" Lumukso pa ang puso niya sa narinig.

Ibinigay sa kanya ng doctor ang findings na binigay ng St. Luke's hospital.

The doctor gave her reminders while she is on the cruise ship before she let her go
out of the clinic.

Paglabas niya ay bumalik na naman ang agam-agam sa puso niya.

Si Vance ba ang nagdala sa kanya sa cruise ship gaya ng ipinangako nito dati?

O baka naman may balak itong itapon siya sa dagat pagkatapos niyang manganak?

Napapikit siya sa naisip.

Huwag naman sana.

Sana iba ang tumulong sa kanya.

__________
The following morning they stopped at Caroline Island. Hinayaan silang magliwaliw
sa isla maghapon bago hinayaang makabalik sa cruise ship. Everything is free.

Todo alalay sa kanya ang dalawang babae. Pati paghila ng upuan niya ay ginagawa ng
mga ito. Sila ang bahalang nagbabayad sa mga ina-avail niya sa isla.

She felt like it is really a breath of fresh air being in a different environment
literally and figuratively.

Na-appreciate niya talaga na nakawala siya sa stress.

She inhaled deeply as she went inside her cabin. Bumalik na naman kasi sa utak niya
na baka si Vance ang nagdala sa kanya sa cruise ship at may balak itong ihulog siya
karagatan pagkatapos manganak.

"Hi!"

Her breathing hitched when she saw Vance standing beside the bed. Lumakas ang tibok
ng puso niya sa sobrang kaba.

He's staring at her. Hindi niya mawari ang iniisip nito.

This is danger.

She should've escaped this morning.

=================
45. Emblazed

When a person is confronted with a lot of things he could do even the most
unthinkable.

Around 36 Hours Ago

"You wait until the baby comes out, I will kill you with my naked hands." Vance
muttered before turning away.

His heart's racing in anger but the moment his foot made a step, he suddenly felt a
crashing pain in his heart.

Hindi niya dapat sinabi 'yon sa babaeng nagparamdam sa kanya kung paano magmahal.
Kahit sobrang galit niya, hindi niya ito kailanman maaatim na saktan. He doesn't
have the heart to hurt the mother of his child.

He immediately turned around.

He felt nervous when he saw Thea catching her breath. Napapikit ito. Mabilis niya
itong dinaluhan. Bago pa man matumba ang dalaga ay nasalo na niya.

His heart's throbbing. He was perturbed to see Thea unsconcious in his arms.

His instinct dragged him to take her to the hospital immediately. Hindi niya alam
kung kaninong santo siya magdarasal habang nagda-drive papuntang ospital o kung may
kilala nga ba siyang santo.

He never felt this worried his entire life.

Worry is an understatement. Pakiramdam niya ay mawawala ang mag-ina niya ano mang
oras.

No matter how angry he was, he didn't want her dead. He scolded himself for saying
those words to her.

Mas lalong lumakas ang kaba niya noong dalhin na ito ng ER. He told the doctor
about what happened. Pinalabas siya nito nang makuha ang mga impormasyong
kailangan.

He wanted so much to stay

inside but he was coerced to go out.

Pakiramdam niya ay napakatagal ng oras habang hinihintay ang doctor na lumabas.

Agad pa siyang napatayo nang lumabas na ito matapos ang ilang minute.

He was relieved when the doctor smiled at him as he went out of the ER.

"Okay naman ang lahat ng vital signs niya. We ran some tests to see if the baby's
okay. Wala ding spottings o kung ano pa man kaya malamang ay okay lang din ang baby
niyo." Saad nito sa kanya.

Nakahinga siya ng maluwag pero kinakabahan pa rin sa posibleng resulta ng eksamen.

They transferred Thea to a private room a minute later.

It took few minutes bago pumunta ang doctor sa loob ng kuwarto.

Okay naman daw ang lahat. Stressed lang daw siguro kaya ito nahimatay. Ni hindi nga
ito kinabitan ng dextrose. The baby's perfectly fine. Malakas daw ang kapit nito.
The doctor even said that their baby is a supergirl. Madalas daw kasi kapag
nahihimatay ang ina dahil sa stress naaapektuhan ang baby pero iba raw ang baby
nila. She's strong.

He felt relieved at what the doctor said.

Pero nang matitigan na naman ang mukha ni Thea ay nainis na naman siya. Bumalik
kasi sa isip niya ang rason kung bakit siya tuluyang nagalit rito. She's planning
to go away again.

Iiwan na naman siya na parang wala lang.

He can't let that happen.

He asked the doctor that he'll just take Thea home since she's already okay.
Pumayag naman ito. Kilala kasi nito ang

pamilya nila kaya nagtiwala ito sa kanya.

He immediately called some people and asked where their nearest cruise ship that
travels around the world is located. Nasa Guam daw ito at naghahanda na papuntang
Micronesia. He had to make them wait for a few hours.

Tinawagan niya rin si Liam para ihatid sila gamit ang private plane. He could fly a
chopper but not a plane. Wala siyang lisensya.

He took some of Thea's clothes from her condo before he went to the airport.

He called up Mac when he was already in Guam and asked him to do something with the
video in the condo tower at para masabihan ang guwardiya na walang dapat makaalam
na dinala niya si Thea lalo na kay Ashley.

He left Thea at the ship after making sure that there are people who'd look after
her.

Nagkita sila ni Mac sa pentsuite ng hotel pagbalik niya ng Maynila kinagabihan.

Marami kasi siyang dapat ayusin at pirmahan sa opisina kaya kinailangan niyang
bumalik muna. Besides, he's sure that Thea can't go anywhere.

It was a blessing in disguise that he had to go back. He was able to talk to his
mom. Everything his mom said really made sense.
___________

Present Time

Vance could see how agitated Thea is.

He inhaled deeply. He perfectly understands how she feels.

Ikaw ba naman ang sasabihang patayin pagkatapos manganak?

He shook his head. He could no longer take back what he said when he was angry. Ang
magagawa na lang niya ay bumawi at huwag nang uulitin.

"How are you?" Nginitian niya ito ng tipid.

Hindi nagsalita ang dalaga at nanatili lang sa pagkakatitig sa kanya. She didn't
even move an inch. He took another deep breath.

"Kumain ka na?" Humakbang siya palapit rito pero umatras ito. He stopped walking
towards her. Ramdam niya ang takot sa mga mata nito.
"I'm not going to hurt you." He told her. He wants to brush that fear in her eyes.

Hindi naman ito sumagot. Hindi naman niya ito masisisi. What he said yesterday was
derogatory and uncalled for.

Huminga siya ng malalim. Her reaction hurts but he can not do anything.

Bumalik siya sa kama at umupo. Nanatili namang nakatayo ang dalaga. Ramdam niyang
tinitingnan nito ang bawat kilos niya.

"Can you sit down, please? Baka makasama sa baby natin kapag nangawit ka katatayo."
Saad niya sa dalaga. His heart skipped a beat when her reaction changed. Parang
umamo ito pero agad ding bumalik ang takot sa mga mata nito.

"I promise I am not going to hurt you. Umupo ka na." Mahina niyang saad rito. It
took her a few moments before she slowly went to the far edge of the bed. Ang mga
mata nito ay nakapako pa rin sa kanya.

He smiled bitterly. Baka tinitingnan nito ang bawat galaw niya para makatakbo agad
kung sakaling lumapit siya rito.

Sinalubong niya ang titig ng dalaga. He wanted so much to cross their distance and
embrace her tight but her reactions are telling him not even to attempt.

There was a long silence before he spoke again. He wanted to make things clear once
and for all.

"Did you know that my grandparents died after you set a fire in that bar?" He asked
inhaling

deeply.

Thea stared at him for a moment.

"I didn't know they are your grandparents." Napailing ang dalaga kasabay ng pagluha
nito.
So she's admitting the arson case? Hindi siya nagsalita at tiningnan lang ito.

"I was your classmate, Thea. Imposible namang hindi pumasok sa isip mo." Napangiti
siya ng mapait.

Naalala na naman niya ang grandparents niya. How they were so caring to him when
they were alive.

"It did cross my mind. Pero sobrang natakot ako, all I wanted was to run away. Shut
down from everything about what happened that night. I'm sorry." Nagugulumihan
nitong saad. Her tears run down. Hindi siya nagsalita.

"Noong nakita ulit kita, your surename reminded me of the crime I did. Ayokong
tanggapin no'n yong trabaho sa kumpanya mo." She explained in between tears. He
tried hard not to wept to seeing Thea's tears.

"It took me days to finally accept your job offer." She added sobbing.

He remembered that. Akala nga niya noon hindi na ito babalik dahil sa ipinakita
niyang ugali noong interview nito.

He remembered feeling pleased that day.

"I accepted it because it was you. I always liked you, Vance. Pangarap lang kita
dating abutin." Naluluha ulit nitong dagdag. Gusto niya itong lapitan pero naitulos
na siya sa kinauupuan.

"Pinilit kong alisin ang lahat ng nangyari sa New Jersey. Pero ako din pala ang
humanap ng daan papunta sa kinatatakutan kong kasalanan." Dagdag nito. He wasn't
able to react. He could feel her

pain. Aminin man niya o hindi nasasaktan din siya.

"I'm sorry. I was harassed. In my attempt to get even with those faggots, nadamay
ang lolo at lola mo." Sambit nito.
That made his eyes let go a droplet.

"There were a lot of people in the bar, Thea. There were bouncers." Saad niya rito.

"Sana nanghingi ka ng tulong. Hindi 'yong sinunog mo ang lugar. I didn't know you
are capable of doing that."

He didn't know what to think. Ang mga katagang iyon ang lumabas sa bibig niya.

Thea pursed her lips. Then, smiled bitterly.

"Hindi ko rin alam na kaya kong gawin 'yon. Perhaps, when a person is confronted
with a lot of things he could do even the unthinkable."

He wasn't able to say anything. Tama naman kasi ito. Hindi nga rin niya maisip kung
paano niya nagawang pagbantaan ito kahapon.

They were silent for quite a while. None of them attempted to speak again.

Nagkatinginan pa silang dalawa nang mag-ring ang telepono sa side table. He would
have ignored it but it kept on ringing.

Sinagot na lamang niya ang tawag. It was the kitchen staff.

"Ise-serve daw ba dito 'yong pagkain natin o doon tayo sa restau deck kakain?"
baling niya kay Thea.

Nagkibit-balikat naman ito.

Sinabi na lamang niyang dalhin sa cabin ang pagkain.

Minutes later, the waiters came and set it on the dining table at the far end of
the room. Sa likod ng couch.

"Let's eat," yaya niya rito nang lumabas na ang mga nag-serve.

"I'm not hungry," tugon naman nito.

"You have to eat. Para sa anak natin." Saad niya rito.

Napalunok

siya nang tumitig ito sa kanya. Her mere stare gives him a different feeling inside
him.

Hindi ito nagsalita pero maya-maya ay nagtungo rin sa mesa. She started eating
without any word. Ni hindi siya nito tinapunan ng tingin.

Hindi na niya mawari kung ano ang nararamdaman nito.

She went to the bathroom after eating a few spoonfuls and changed her clothes.
Paglabas nito ay siya naman ang pumasok ng bathroom.

"Saan ka matutulog?" tanong nito nang lumabas siya ng banyo.

He looked at the bed. Gustong-gusto na niyang humiga. He's been deprived of sleep
last night at sobrang pagod pa niya kanina.
He was about to tell her they could sleep on the bed but he saw her facial
expression.

"I can stay on the couch. Malaki naman. Kasyang-kasya ako." He said instead.
Tumango naman ito.

"Sige matulog ka na." Saad niya rito. Matagal pa itong nakatitig sa kanya bago
nagpasyang humiga na sa kama.

He asked a crew to bring in extra duvet and pillows. Hinintay niya iyon bago naman
pumuwesto sa couch. Good thing he had the couch this long. Kung kasing-liit lang
ito ng couch ni Thea sa condo, malamang ay sasakit na naman ang katawan niya
paggising.

It took an hour before he finally slept.

Nagising siya nang makarinig ng ungol. Agad siyang napabalikwas. Thea's fidgeting
on the bed while her eyes are shut tightly. Mukhang nananaginip ito.

Agad niya itong dinaluhan.

"Thea, wake up." Marahan niya itong tinapik. He had to repeat it before she finally
woke up.

Agad itong bumalikwas at parang nahintakutan pa nang makita

siya. Yayakapin sana niya ito pero agad itong lumayo.

"Huwag mo akong hawakan!" Sambit nito. He wasn't able to move. There is this fear
in her eyes.

He inhaled deeply and watched as she calmed herself.

"Sorry. Pasensya ka na." Saad nito nang mahimasmasan.

Napatango siya.

"It's fine. Ano bang napanaginipan mo?" Tanong niya rito.

"Wala. Sige na matulog ka na lang ulit." Saad nito. He wanted to talk to her but
she already laid down.

Hinayaan na lamang niya ito. He tried hard to sleep again when he saw that Thea is
already sleeping.

Pakiramdam niya ay ilang minuto pa lang siyang naidlip nang muli siyang magising.

He felt nervous when Thea's no longer on the bed when he looked at her direction.
Agad siyang bumangon.

Ipinilig niya ang ulo. He was reminded of Mac telling him that Thea might hide and
he won't be able to find her.

Agad niyang tinawagan ang kapitan ng barko para alamin kung nakatigil pa sila sa
dock area ng Caroline Island. Nakahinga siya ng maluwag nang sabihin nitong nasa
gitna na sila ng karagatan. At least, he's sure Thea can't run away.

He immediately called people i the control room to look where Thea is.

Agad siyang nagtungo sa kinaroroonan nito.

Ramdam niya ang samyo ng malamig na hangin. Nasa top deck kasi ito at nakaupo sa
isang umbrella bench. There are few people around watching the night sky. Alas dose
lang pala ng hatinggabi.

Umupo siya sa tabi ng dalaga. Nag-iwan siya ng sapat na distansya

sa pagitan nila. Ayaw niyang matakot ulit ito.

Sumulyap lang ito sa kanya bago ibinalik ang tingin sa karagatan.

Nobody spoke. Tanging mga ingay lang ng ilang tao sa paligid ang naririnig nila at
ang hampas ng tubig sa dagat.

Thea cleared her throat. Napatingin siya rito.

"Ipakukulong niyo ba ako?" Putol ng dalaga sa katahimikang namamagitan sa kanila.

Ngumiti siya ng tipid sa katanungan nito.

Nangangamba ba itong makulong kaya ito parang binabangungot kanina?

"The case was already closed." Saad niya rito. Thea stared at him. Ngumiti ito ng
mapait.

"Sorry kung ako ang naging dahilan ng pagkamatay ng grandparents mo." Sambit nito.
May lumabas na namang butil ng luha sa mata nito.

Tiningnan niya ito ng mataman.

"I have already forgiven you. Saka hindi mo naman intensyong mandamay ng iba, 'di
ba?" Saad niya rito. Napatingin si Thea sa kanya at napatitig.

He smiled sincerely.
"Galit na galit ka sa akin noong isang araw." Nangilid na naman ang luha nito na
agad nitong pinahid.

"I only got mad at you because I learned that you're going back in New Jersey with
Ashley." Tugon niya rito.

"Sobrang nahihirapan na kasi ako. Natatakot akong sabihin sa 'yo kasi sinabi ng
parents mo na close ka sa lolo at lola mo." Paliwanag nito.

Napatango na lang siya at hindi nagsalita. Now, he totally understands. Mahirap nga
namang aminin ang lahat. Maybe she's really torned. Tapos gano'n pa ang sinabi niya
rito.

"Are you going to throw me in the ocean after I give birth?" tanong nito matapos
ang mahabang katahimikan.

He almost chuckled at her question.

"Why would I?" Sambit niya rito. Hindi naman ito nagsalita at yumuko lang.

"I'm sorry for everything that I've said." He muttered. Thea pursed her lips and
stared at him.

"I'm sorry, sweetheart. God knows I can not do what I have told you." He uttered as
he looked at her. He didn't know why the words made him teary-eyed. He needed to
blink his eyes to stop his tears from falling. Pero tuluyan pa ring nagsilaglagan
ang mga luha niya.

Thea's tears also ran down her cheeks.

Yayakapin sana niya ito pero pinigilan siya nito. Wala siyang nagawa kundi umupo na
lang at pinanuod ito habang pinapakalma ang sarili.

Matagal silang nakaupo lang at nakatanaw sa karagatang natatanglawan ng mga bituin.

"Aren't you going to sleep yet? Bawal sa 'yo ang magpuyat di ba?" tanong niya rito.
Sumulyap naman ito sa kanya. Hindi ito nagsalita pero maya-maya ay tumayo rin.

Sinundan na lamang niya ito.

=================

46. Rejection?

You are not being rejected. It's just that you are meant to fit in somewhere else.

Vance don't know how to approach Thea. Buong araw kasing hindi nagsasalita ang
dalaga at parang ang lalim ng iniisip. Pero kapag niyayaya niya itong kumain ay
sumasama naman.

Nasa loob lang ito ng cabin buong umaga. Noong bandang hapon ay nagpunta ito ng
view deck. He only watched her from afar.

Hindi niya alam kung paano ito kakausapin.

Thea looked at him when she saw the dress on the bed. Kakapasok lang nito sa cabin.
Nginitian naman niya ang dalaga.

"There will be a dance ball and open dinner tonight at the social hall. Doon tayo
magdi-dinner." Saad niya rito. Hindi naman ito umimik.
Maybe she is not interested or she's not on the mood.

He almost thought she wouldn't want to go but she dressed up just before dinner
time. Nagmadali na lang din siyang nagbihis.

"Buti na lang pala nag-dress ako." Saad nito nang nasa social hall na sila. The
place resembles like a royalty dance hall. There is a band playing on the stage.
Everyone is dressed up.

He smiled knowing that Thea spoke voluntarily. Ngayon lang ito unang nagsalita sa
buong araw.

"I thought you didn't want to join the dinner dance ball. Hindi ka kasi sumagot
kanina." Natatawa niyang saad rito. Ngumiti naman ito ng tipid.

"I thought it was a statement not a question." Mahina nitong tugon.

Napatango siya.

"But we can only stay until 10PM. Bawal kang magpuyat." Tiningnan niya ang
magandang mukha

nito.

Tumango lang din ito.

There were few performances before that dance part opened.

Niyaya niya ito pero tumanggi naman. First time sana nilang magsayaw sa cruise
ship.

Nanood na lamang sila. It wasn't even 10PM when she said she wants to sleep.

Aalalayan niya sana itong tumayo pero tumanggi ito. Sinabayan na lamang niya ang
dalaga papuntang cabin.
"We are already around Kiribati. Tomorrow we will reach Phoenix Island." Saad niya
habang papunta na sila ng cabin. Thea remained silent.

"We'll be spending two days there but I already limited our itinerary so you won't
get too tired." Dagdag niya.

Tumango lang ito.

He inhaled deeply. Gusto niya itong kausapin nang kausapin.

"Do you remember when you joked about naming our baby Kiribati?" He ask with a soft
chuckle. Sumulyap naman ito sa kanya.

He smiled when she opened her mouth to speak.

"You said you wouldn't let the cruise ship land on that country." Sambit nito.
Gumaan ang pakiramdam niya nang makita itong ngumiti ng panandalian.

"Five months pa lang naman kaya hindi ka pa manganganak." Natatawa niyang saad
dito. Tumango naman ito at napangiti.

Masaya siyang nakakapag-usap na ulit sila at ngumingiti na ulit ito.

"Mauna ka ng magbihis." Saad niya rito nang makapasok sila. Tumango naman ito bago
nagtungo ng bathroom.
"Matutulog ka na?" tanong niya rito

nang agad nitong tunguhin ang kama paglabas ng bathroom.

"Oo." Ngumiti ito at tumango.

He inhaled deeply and stood there staring at her when she went to the bed.

"May sasabihin ka ba?" tanong nito nang makitang nandoon pa siya.

"May I sit?" Turo niya sa gilid ng kama. Nabuhayan siya ng loob nang tumango ito.

Huminga siya ng malalim.

"If you are scared because of what I did, I'm so sorry. I was only mad that time. I
don't know how else I can explain my side." Saad niya rito.

Huminga ito ng malalim.

"Wala na 'yon. Ako nga ang dapat mong patawarin dahil sa nagawa ko." Tugon naman
nito.

"Sinabi ko na 'di ba? I have already forgiven you." He said sincerely.

He slowly went near her. Nakatitig lang naman ito sa kanya. She really has that
seductive eyes even with her bulging belly. Nakita niyang natigilan ito nang ilang
dangkal na lang ang layo niya rito.

"Let's start over, sweetheart." He mumbled.

He wanted so much to hug her but he stopped himself. He kissed her forehead lightly
instead. The mere touch made his heart beat fast.
Hindi naman nagsalita ang dalaga at tumango lang.

Ilang minuto ang lumipas bago siya nagpasyang tumayo.

"Good night, sweetheart." He muttered.

"G'night." Sambit naman ng dalaga. Ngumiti ito ng tipid. That made all his worries
disappear.

_____

"Good morning," Vance greeted when Thea opened her eyes. Iniabot niya ang isang
palumpon ng paborito nitong bulaklak. Kanina pa niya ito hinihintay magising.
Nakadaong na kasi sila ng Phoenix Island nang mahigit tatlong oras habang tulog na
tulog ito.

He took the opportunity to prepare something for her. He placed gerberas in the
entire room by himself.

Thea only looked at the bouquet as she got up from the bed. Akala niya ay kukunin
nito pero tatayo lang pala ito mula sa kama. Dahan-dahan na lamang niyang inilapag
ang palumpon sa kama.

Sinundan niya ito ng tingin nang magpunta ng banyo. Masama yata ang gising nito.

Sa halip na sumama ang loob sa ipinakita nito ay lumabas na lamang siya para
kausapin ang mga taong binilin niya para maghanda sa pupuntahan nilang resort.
He had it decorated for his surprise.

Nang malaman na handa na ang surpresa niya ay bumalik na siya sa cabin.

He inhaled deeply when he saw the flowers in exactly the same spot where he left it
on the bed. Thea is already sitting infront of the mirror brushing her hair.

Nilapitan niya ito. He shouldn't feel bad. Nag-usap na sila kagabi. They are
starting all over.

"Breakfast na tayo?" Kaswal niyang saad sa dalaga. Tumingin naman ito mula sa
repleksyon niya sa salamin at tumango. Ngumiti ito ng tipid.

Napangiti rin siya. They are really starting over. Hinawakan niya ito sa kamay nang
palabas na sila sa cabin. Hindi naman ito tumanggi. It made him smile widely. He
feels so light as they walked along.

Thea stared at him when most of the guests are giving way to them as they went out
of the ship. Nginitian na lamang niya ito.

He guided her to a car parked at the dock area.

Napatingin ulit ito sa kanya nang makita ang paligid ng resort kung saan sila
tumigil. There are flowers everywhere. It looks like they entered a paradise.

"Have you been here before?" tanong nito sa kanya. Tumango siya. His family owning
a cruiseship and airline gave him the opportunity to travel around the world.

"Mura ba ang mga bulaklak sa islang ito?" Komento nito. Napangiti siya. Napansin
talaga nito ang mga bulaklak sa paligid.

"Is it beautiful?" tanong niya rito.

Thea pursed her lips. Then she smiled and nodded. That made him smile inside
genuinely. He's happy that they are somewhat okay.

The violinists started playing canon when they entered the resort's open air
restaurant.

"Gerberas everywhere." Thea muttered smiling.

His heart pounded fast the moment he led her to sit on the table set for them at
the middle.

"Tayo lang ang customers?" tanong ni Thea sa kanya. His heart beats faster but he
has to do it now or never at all. The sun shining brightly and the fresh air
brushing off their faces seem to give him high hopes.

"Remember the night of your birthday?" tanong niya rito.

Thea inhaled deeply and nodded. She's playing with her hands above the table. Hindi
niya alam kung ramdam nito ang gusto niyang

sabihin.
"I prepared a surprise but I wasn't able to show you." Dagdag niya. Sadness flashed
through Thea's eyes.

Naalala siguro nito ang nangyari. Nginitian niya ito para hindi na mag-isip ng kung
ano.

"It's supposed to be like this - you, me...music from the violins..gerberas

around." He said inhaling deeply. Kinabahan na naman siya.

"and this ring..." he added bringing out the box from his pocket.

Tinitigan niya ang mukha ng dalaga. She looked startled.

"Before everything else happened, I wanted to marry you, Thea." Saad niya rito.

Thea stared at him. Hindi niya sigurado kung anong emosyon ang kalakip ng pagngiti
nito ng alanganin.

"And yes after everything that happened, nothing changed. I still want to marry
you." He opened the jewelry box and brought out the gold ring with small diamond
stones forming an infinity symbol.

Tumitig ang dalaga sa kanya.

He was about to hold Thea's hand but she immediately hid it under the table.

His heart all the more raced. Siya naman ang naguluhan sa ginawa nito. He tried to
believe the opposite meaning of her action. Pero hindi niya napigilan ang sarili.

"Is that a no?" He asked courageously.

Thea inhaled deeply. Pakiramdam niya ay ang tagal ng oras habang hinihintay itong
magsalita. Tumango ang dalaga.
"Hindi naman natin kailangang magpakasal muna." Saad nito. Pakiramdam niya ay
tinakasan siya ng kulay sa sinabi nito.

"I love you and I don't see anything wrong marrying you the soonest possible time."
Saad niya rito.

He inhaled deeply.

"We are starting over again right?" He added.

Hindi naman ito sumagot.

"It's too..." Thea muttered but wasn't able to continue. Huminga ito ng malalim.

"I don't think..." saad ulit nito pero hindi naman itinuloy.

"You don't love me?" tanong niya rito.

"Hindi gano'n." Tugon nito.

"You are not sure if your love is enough to marry me." He stated matter-of-factly.

Thea stared at him. Hindi ito nagsalita.

Hindi siya nakagalaw.

Shots fired.

Hindi pa rin pala siya gano'n kamahal ni Thea.

 Fuck.

Great. Just great!

=================

47. Near the Edge

Sometimes, you'll never know when you reach the far end until you are reminded
that, yes, things must end. There is nothing that could stop it.

Thea wasn't able to react when Vance stood up.

Sinundan na lamang niya ito ng tingin.

Hindi niya alam kung paano ipaliliwanag ang lahat.

Saying no to his proposal is the most sane and safest answer she could ever give
right at the moment.

Sobrang gulo pa ng utak at puso niya. She doesn't know how to cope up with the
rapid changes of events.

The rage she saw in his eyes that morning can not be erased with a simple sorry.

Paano kung balak lang pala nitong pasakitan siya?

She shook her head. The sincerity in Vance's eyes when he said that he forgives her
looks genuine. Batid niya na pinatawad na siya nito

PERO kahit pa sabihing pinatawad na siya ng binata. Hindi rin niya sigurado kung
ito lang ang galit sa kanya. Paano siya haharap sa pamilya nito?

For sure they have relatives, too. Maaatim ba niyang humarap sa mga ito sa kabila
ng naging resulta ng pagkakamali niya sa nakaraan?

Pagkakamaling sinadya niyang gawin. She knew that what she's doing at that moment
was wrong pero itinuloy pa rin niya. She cared less. She only cared for her anger
and madness and wished it'd be released.

Tama siguro ang iba na kapag mataas ang IQ mahina ang EQ. She always have a hard
time dealing with her emotions.

Ang bilis pa ng mga pangyayari.

She needed time to ingest everything.

She tried hard to free her mind. Naiiyak na naman kasi siya. Ayaw niyang mahimatay
ulit dahil sa kaiisip ng posibleng mangyari. Siguro kapag nanganak siya saka na
lang niya ulit iisipin at haharapin ang lahat.

Her eyes watered again. Agad niya itong pinunas at pinakalma ang sarili.

She tried hard to eat when the waiters served. Nakaramdam na rin kasi siya ng
gutom.

"Done?"

Napatingala siya nang marinig ang boses ni Vance.

Tumingin siya sa lamesa. Ang dami na pala niyang nakain. Tinanguan niya ang binata.

"Gusto mong mamasyal na?" tanong nito.

She cleared her throat.

"'Yong tungkol kanina." She swallowed hard unable to say the rest.

"Huwag na nating pag-usapan." Saad nito.

Huminga siya ng malalim. Maybe they don't have to talk about it yet.

Hinintay naman siya nito.

"Kumain ka na?" tanong niya rito.

"No need." Vance answered.

"Kumain ka muna saka tayo mamasyal." Saad niya rito. Vance stared at her. Halo-halo
ang emosyong nakikita niya sa mga mata nito. Huminga ulit siya ng malalim.

Maya-maya ay umupo rin ito. He only watched him as he ate.

Naguguluhan na talaga siya sa nangyayari.

Buong maghapon silang namasyal. At night, they stayed in a hotel in town. They
occupied separate rooms.

Hindi niya alam kung bakit parang nasaktan siya na dalawa ang kuwartong kinuha nito
pero naisip niyang mas okay na rin siguro iyon para makapag-isip siya.

Maghahating-gabi

na pero hindi pa rin siya makatulog kaiisip.

"Why?" Vance asked when he opened the door. Kinatok niya kasi ito matapos ang ilang
oras na pag-iisip. Ayaw na kasi niyang ipagpaumaga ang lahat.

"Puwede ba akong makigamit ng phone mo?"

Vance's forehead creased at her question.

"Ginising mo ako dahil lang diyan?"

Naramdaman niya ang yamot sa boses nito pero niluwagan naman nito ang bukas ng
pinto.

Dumiretso siya sa couch. Ito naman ay nagtungo sa kama. He's only wearing boxers.

She didn't dare look at him again.

Mabuti na lang nang naka-shirt na ito nang bumalik sa kinauupuan niya.

"I need to speak to my family." Saad niya rito. Her heart's beating fast. Hindi
niya sigurado ang sasabihin sa pamilya niya pero sila ang una niyang naisip na
kausapin

Tumitig si Vance sa kanya ng mataman.

Napalunok siya. She opened her mouth to speak.

"Yong tungkol sa kasal na sinasabi mo--"

"Huwag na nating pag-usapan." He said cutting her. His voice is void of any
emotion.

Humugot siya ng malalim na paghinga.

"Gusto ko lang sabihin ang dahilan kung bakit hindi ako umoo sa kasal." Napalunok
siya sa sariling pahayag. It is so hard to verbalize how she feels.

"I said let's not talk about it." Iniabot nito ang phone sa kanya at nag-iba ng
tingin.

"Vance, gusto kong pag-usapan natin para malinaw ang lahat." She said looking at
his reaction.

"Gusto mo? So, paano naman kung ayaw ko nang pag-usapan?" Inis nitong saad.

Her heart skipped a beat.

"Bakit ayaw mo?"

"Because it damn hurts, Thea. Literally and figuratively." Tumayo ito at tumalikod.
Namaywang pa ito. His shoulders are moving. Kitang-kita niya ang sunod-sunod nitong
paghinga ng malalim.

"Sobrang gulo pa kasi ng lahat." She uttered. She tried hard not to cry.
"I did not reject your proposal because I don't love you." Umpisang paliwanag niya.
Tumingin lang ito sa kanya.

"It's just that everything's so complicated. Nagsanga-sanga na kasi. Hindi ko alam

kung ano'ng una kong iisipin." Paliwanag niya.

Vance bit his lower lip in annoyance. She could see his irritation but she has to
tell him.

"Inisip ko no'ng una na baka gusto mo lang gumanti sa akin. 'Yong galit kasi sa mga
mata mo no'ng umagang 'yon, iba."

Vance smirked at what she said. Napailing ito.

"But I saw your sincerity. I know that you really don't want to hurt me. If you do,
ginawa mo na sana."

Tumitig ito sa kanya pero mukhang hindi pa rin kumbinsido.

"I also thought of your family, alam na ba nila?" tanong niya rito.

Vance did not say anything. Yumuko lang ito at nag-isip ng malalim.

"Baka naman napatawad mo nga ako pero may galit naman pala ang iba mo pang mga
kapatid dahil sa nangyari?" Dagdag niya.

Vance remained silent. Umupo ito sa kaharap na couch.

"My

family's not also okay. Galit si Mommy sa akin. Kahit hindi sabihin ng kapatid ko,
ikinahihiya niya ang nangyaring pagbubuntis ko nang hindi kasal." Paliwang niya. A
tear escaped her eye.
"Hindi rin nila alam ang ginawa ko sa New Jersey." Dagdag niya.

Vance only looked at her.

"Gusto kong maging okay muna ang lahat bago ako umoo sa kasal na sinasabi mo." Saad
niya rito.

"So what's your point in telling all these?" Vance asked sarcastically.

Saglit siyang natigilan siya sa tanong nito.

"So that you'd understand why I didn't say yes." Namuo ang luha sa mga mata niya.

Vance shook his head and smirked.

"The only thing that I have understood with what you said is that you wanted to
solve everything ALONE by yourself." Saad nito.

Hindi siya nakapagsalita sa naging pahayag nito.

"Ayaw mo talaga akong isama sa mga plano mong gawin." Dagdag nito.

Napalunok siya. Ramdam niya ang pait sa boses nito.

Ayaw nga ba niya?

"You know what's worst?" He asked pursing his lip.

Napatingin siya sag alit nitong mata. She wanted to avert her gaze but she can't.
"I can not do anything to question the love that you have for me. Hanggang doon
lang ako lagi sa kung anong kaya mong ibigay."

That made her eyes watered. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang bigat sa bawat bitaw nito ng
salita.

She didn't know it had that impact. 'Yong nararamdaman lang kasi niya ang iniisip
niya.

"Sana

maisip mo na kinalimutan ko din ang lahat ng sakit sa lahat ng nangyari kasi gusto
pa rin kitang samahan, damayan sa lahat ng bagay sa buhay mo." Saad nito bago
tumayo. Nakita niya ang pagpahid nito sa mga mata bago tuluyang naglakad. Pumasok
ito ng bathroom.

She wanted to ran after him but her body was pinned on the couch. Bigla na lang
nagsilaglagan ang mga luha niya.

She really was so unfair to him.

The man loves her.

Hindi dahil sa anak nila o sa kung ano pa man. Mahal talaga siya nito.

Ang tagal niyang tinitigan ang cellphone na inabot nito bago nagpasyang buksan.

His wallpaper is a silhouette of a woman's face, behind her is the setting sun.
Naalala niya ang picture na iyon. He took it on their first date, sa cruise ship
din.

Mas lalo na naman siyang naiyak.

Ilang minuto bago siya ulit natauhan. She scrolled his messenger app and logged in.
Inayos niya ang sarili habang hinihintay ang kapatid niyang angatin ang video call.

"Thea, nasa'n ka? Nag-aalala kami sa 'yo."

Naiyak siya sa naging pambungad ng ate niya. She wasn't able to answer. Her tears
ran down again.

"Nagdamdam ka ba dahil sa sinabi ni Mommy sa 'yo? Huwag mo nang isipin 'yon. Umuwi
ka na." Dagdag nito.

Her shoulders started shaking. She heard her sister calling their mother. Ilang
segundo lang, nakita na niya sa screen ang mommy niya. Nasa family house pala nila
ang ate niya.

"Thea, anak.

Umuwi ka na dito sa bahay."

Naiyak siya ulit sa sinabi ng ina.

"Ikasal ka man o hindi, anak pa rin kita. You are to stay here." Naiiyak nitong
sambit.

"Kung hindi tanggap ni Vance yang anak niyo, just let it be. Kami ang tatanggap sa
apo ko." Dagdag nito. Hindi siya makapagsalita. She only wanted to cry.

"Sorry, anak. Umuwi ka na."

"Thea, come home, bunso." Her dad appeared on the video. Tuluyan na siyang
napahagulgol.
Hindi pa niya napansing lumapit si Vance sa kanya at kinuha ang phone bago yumakap.
She hugged him tight and cried her heart out.

Vance was the one who talked to her parents. Wala siyang naiintindihan sa mga
sinasabi ng mga ito. Her heart's too overwhelmed.

"Hey, sweetheart calm down." Vance mumbled kissing her forehead. Yumakap siya rito
ng mahigpit.

"Tatawag na lang tayo ulit sa kanila mamaya." Sambit nito. He kissed her hair. Mas
lalo namang humigpit ang yakap niya rito. Ipinulupot naman nito ang braso sa
balikat niya.

She missed him badly. Mas lalo na naman siyang naiyak.

"You are right. I don't need to face this alone. I need you." She said sobbing.
Vance only kissed her hair. Hindi ito nagsalita.

"I love you, Vance." Tiningala niya ito.

Vance smiled. Nawala bigla ang pait sa mga mata nito kanina.

"Yong baby natin, naiipit baka magreklamo?" Nakangiti nitong saad. His smile made
her chuckle in glee.

Niluwagan niya ang yakap sa binata pero hindi siya bumitaw.

Vance is right.

Hindi naman niya kailangang ipagtulakan ito. Puwede naman nilang harapin ang lahat
ng magkasama.

"You are letting me touch you. Hindi ka na takot sa 'kin?" Natatawa nitong tanong.
"Hindi naman ako natatakot sa 'yo." Sambit niya.

"So, tapos na ang guilt trip mo?" tanong ulit nito. Ngumisi pa ito nang tingalain
niya.

"Guilt trip talaga?" natatawa niyang tanong rito. Pakiramdam niya ay nawala rin ang
lahat ng bigat ng loob niya kanina. His embrace made her calm.

Ngumiti lang si Vance. He stared at her. Sinalubong niya ang titig ng binata. Her
heart's beating fast.

Vance held her chin. She inhaled deeply.

Tumitig ito sa kanya bago dahan-dahang inilapit ang mukha. His lips slowly landed
on hers.

She closed her eyes and welcomed his tongue. He kissed her slowly, gently nipping
her lower lip.

His gentle kiss sent butterflies in her stomach. It's been quite a while. Sobrang
sarap sa pakiramdam na naaayos na ang lahat.

She was lost in his kisses but just as their kiss deepens, bumitaw ito. She opened
her eyes only to see him staring at her.

"You're crazy and uncontrollable but I love you." Vance muttered kissing her
forehead.

She smiled. A tear escaped her eye but it's not because of pain.

"Mahal din kita. Sorry kung hindi ko alam kung paano ipakita pero mahal talaga
kita." Sambit niya rito.

"Stop saying sorry," putol nito sa susunod pang sasabihin niya. Napatingala siya
rito.

"Let's just go to bed and make love." He mumbled. He gently bite her ear and
grinned at her.

Napatitig siya rito. Kumindat naman ito sa kanya saka sumulyap sa kama.

Really?

Sa gitna ng kadramahan ng buhay nila, Vance is still Vance.

"Ikaw talaga." Saad niya rito.

"I'm just kidding." Natatawa nitong saad. Tiningnan niya ito. Ngumiti ulit ito ng
nakakaloko. Parang hindi sila dumaan sa mabigat na usapan kanina.

"But it doesn't mean you can't take it seriously." Kindat nito. Bago siya kinabig
at ikinulong sa mga bisig nito.

Naiiling na lang siyang yumakap rito. She feels a ton lighter.

😍😍😍

=================

48. Slowly

Your broken pieces will slowly mend on its own, just be patient.
"Good morning."

Nakangiting mukha ni Vance ang bumungad sa mga mata ni Thea paggising. They are
back in the cruise ship. They are already traversing along Polynesia.

"Ang aga mong manggising." Reklamo niya rito. She was awakened by his kisses on her
neck. Gano'n din ang ginawa nito kinaumagahan matapos silang magkabati.

Napangiti siya at agad na sumandal sa headboard. Mas gumaan ang pakiramdam niya
ngayong okay na sila.

"You should see the sunrise at the middle of the ocean. It's spectacular."
Nakangiti nitong saad. There is a different glow in his eyes. She haven't seen that
for quite a while.

"Madami na akong nakitang sunrise. Huwag na. Gusto kong bumawi ng tulog." Nayayamot
niyang tugon rito. Ang totoo niyan inaantok pa talaga siya.

"You should come with me." Ngumiti si Vance at hindi pinansin ang pagtanggi niya.

Agad siya nitong binuhat.

"Hey nakapantulog pa ako." Natatawa niyang reklamo rito.

"Okay lang yan." Kindat naman ng binata.

Natatawa na lang siyang humawak sa leeg nito para siguraduhing hindi mahuhulog.
Mahirap na lalo na't malaki na ang tiyan niya.

Medyo madilim pa nang ibinaba siya nito sa view deck. There are also some people
waiting. Some are even holding their own cup of hot drinks.

Niyakap siya ni Vance mula sa likod at ipinaharap sa direksyon kung saan unti-unti
nang nagliliwanag. His warm body compensates with the cold breeze.

"Don't blink or else you'll miss the sight."

Saad nito. Ipinatong nito ang ulo sa balikat niya.

Napangiti na lang siya.

"You smell good." Singhot nito sa leeg niya at marahang hinalikan. Hindi na lamang
siya nagsalita at humawak sa mga braso nitong nakapulupot sa baywang niya.

They watched as the sun slowly lights the world. Habang paunti-unting lumalabas ang
haring araw unti-unti namang nagliliwanag ang buong kapaligiran. Vance is right.
The sun rays slowly kissing the ocean is a magnificent sight. Halatang-halata pala
na bilog ang mundo kapag gano'n.

"It's beautiful!" She mumbled with awe. She felt Vance kissing her cheek. Dahan-
dahan siya nitong ipinaharap.

"It is and I wanted you witness by yourself..." He said smiling. Nangiti rin siya
sa sinabi nito.

"So it would remind you that there is always sunrise. There is always that promise
of a new day." Saad nito. He kissed the tip of her nose.

"Ang corny mo." Natatawa niyang saad sa binata.

Natawa lang din ito bago siya niyakap at hinalikan sa noo.

Deep inside her heart she knows what Vance is trying to say and she appreciates it.
Ipinasyal siya nito sa recreational deck matapos ang breakfast kung saan may iba't-
ibang sports activities. May deck rin na puro gym activities. May mga nagsasayaw pa
ng zumba. Kahit pala talaga nasa barko ng ilang araw maraming puwedeng
pagkaabalahan maliban pa sa adventure activities sa top deck. May casino deck rin
ang barko.

________

They stopped over Marquesas Island

before heading to Ecuador. Ilang araw sila sa barko bago nakarating doon. They only
spent two days in the place before heading to Panama. Tatlong araw sila sa panama
bago sumakay sa isa pang cruise ship na naghihintay sa kanila sa Carribean Sea na
pag-aari rin ng VLF.

When Vance told her that they are heading to Jamaica, naisip niyang sana doon na
lang manganak para maganda ang pangalan ng anak nila kaso anim na buwan pa lang ang
tiyan niya.

She thought it would only be another three days of gallivanting around some tourist
spots in Jamaica but the last day was a surprise.
Vance looks nervous when they went inside a restaurant for their dinner.
Napapantastikuhan siya rito pero naintindihan lang niya ang lahat nang makita ang
tatlong taong nakaupo sa mesang tinutunton nila.

"Anak." Mommy niya ang unang tumayo nang makita sila.

"Sorry sa mga nasabi ko." Sambit agad ng ina nang yumakap ito sa kanya.

Her eyes watered as she nodded and hugged her mom tight.

Sumunod din ang ama niya at ate na yumakap. They are both teary-eyed.

Natatawa siyang bumitaw sa mga ito nang marinig ang pagtikhim ni Vance. Hindi siya
makapagsalita dahil sa labis na kaligayahan.

Huli nilang pag-uusap ng mga magulang noong nasa Phoenix Island sila ni Vance. He
said there was no signal inside the ship kaya hindi na muli siya nakatawag sa mga
ito. May balak lang pala itong surpresahin siya.

"Akala namin hindi kayo okay na dalawa." Umpisa ng ama niya nang magkakaharap na
silang kumakain.

Nagkatinginan sila ni Vance sa sinabi ng ama. He reached for her hand and held it.

"Akala ko din kaya umalis itong si Thea dahil na-pressure sa akin." Sambit naman ng
kanyang ina.

Nangiti lang siya sa sinabi ng ina. Aminado naman siyang isa iyon sa dahilan kaya
naisip niyang umalis muna sana noon papuntang New Jersey.

Pinisil ni Vance ang kamay niyang hawak-hawak nito sa ilalim ng mesa. Somehow, the
gesture made her feel light.
"So kailan niyo balak magpakasal?" tanong ng ama niya.

Vance looked at her. Tumingin naman siya sa mga magulang at hindi agad nakasagot.

"Pag-uusapan po namin pagkatapos niyang manganak." Vance answered. Ngumiti ito sa

kanya nang sumulyap siya.

"May ilang bagay lang po kaming kailangan ayusin." Dagdag nito. Napatango naman ang
kanyang mga magulang. Her sister is only listening to the conversation. Patingin-
tingin lang ito sa kanya.

"What would that be?" Tanong ng ina niya.

Vance stared at her. Ngumiti ito ng tipid.

"You have to tell them everything, sweetheart." Bulong sa kanya ni Vance. Binitawan
nito ang kamay niya saka siya hinaplos ng marahan sa likod. They both stared at
each other. His gaze is encouraging her to open up to her parents.

Huminga siya nang malalim. Napasulyap siya sa mga magulang. Nakatingin lang ang mga
ito sa kanila ni Vance.

Her heart's racing but she had to face it now. May pagkakataon na siyang aminin ang
lahat sa mga magulang.

Sinabi niyang may nagawa siyang isang pagkakamali na labis niyang ikinahihiya at
ikinatatakot. Then, she started narrating about what happened that night in the
bar.

"There was this man who

held my rear. Paglingon ko nagtatawanan 'yong isang grupo ng mga lalaki. 'Yong
humawak sa 'kin pabalik na sa kinaroroonan ng mga kasama niya." Salaysay niya.
Nakinig lang ang mga magulang niya at kapatid. Kitang-kita niya ang antisipasyon
at
nerbyos sa mga mata ng mga ito.
"Nasa CR si Ashley no'n. I was drunk but I know what's happening." Pagtutuloy niya.

"Tapos lumapit ulit 'yong isa nilang kasama, sabi niya, are these tits real? Tapos
hinawakan na lang niya basta ang hinaharap ko. Tinabig ko 'yong kamay niya."

Namuo ang luha sa mga mata niya. Pero kung dati ay ayaw niyang balikan ang
pangyayaring 'yon, ngayon ay may lakas ng loob na siyang ikuwento. It's all because
Vance accepted her despite what she did.

"Nagalit ako. I felt disrespected. I don't know if it was a curse that I am

knowledgeable in chemicals." She continued narrating. She sobbed but Vance is
caressing her back to calm her down.

"I saw the flame when someone lighted a cigarette. I saw the liquors. I know which
one would ignite a fire. I looked around and all that's registering in my mind were
the flammable things."

Nakita niya ang pagluha ng ina sa sinabi niya at ang pagpipigil ng ate niya sa
paghinga.

"I didn't know what I was thinking. I just ignited a fire discreetly around the
men. Tapos pinanuod ko silang napapalibutan ng apoy habang nagtatakbuhan na lahat."
Tuluyan na siyang napahagulgol sa pagkukuwento. Her parents were static. Nakapako
lang ang tingin ng mga ito sa kanya.

She tried

hard to calm herself as Vance caresses her back.

"Then Ashley came dragging me out of the place." Huminga siya ng malalim.

"Nalaman na lang namin kinabukasan na naapula din pala ang apoy kaya lang may
dalawang na-suffocate sa second floor ng building."

Napatingin siya kay Vance at naluha ulit.

"I was scared. I didn't turn myself to the police. Hindi rin nila nalaman na ako
ang dahilan ng sunog."

Her mom's crying with her sister. Nanatili lang namang kalmado ang ama at nakikinig
sa sinasabi niya.

"Until last year when a new investigation came out. Pero inako ni Ashley ang
lahat." Naluluha niyang dagdag.

There was a long silence before her sister spoke.

"Bakit hindi siya nakulong?" tanong ng ate niya.

"Nakulong siya pero lumaya rin matapos ang ilang buwan." Sambit niya.

Napatingin siya sa mga magulang na.

"I'm sorry, mommy, daddy." Sambit niya sa mga ito.

Naiyak din ang mga magulang niya sa kanya.

There was a long silence. Kinabig siya ni Vance at isinandal sa dibdib nito.

"Sino 'yong mga namatay? We have to talk to their family." Sambit ng ama niya.

Napatingala siya kay Vance.

"The victims were my grandparents." Vance muttered.

Napanganga ang mga magulang niya rito.

"Don't worry about my parents. They were actually the first who knew about it."
Dagdag nito.

Niyakap siya ng binata. He gently kissed her hair.

"Thea will be safe with me. I promise." Dagdag nito. Napatango naman ang mga
magulang niya sa sinabi nito.

"Si Ashley gusto

ko siyang makita at makausap. She's such a good friend to you." Sambit ng ina niya
nang makahuma.

"We'll talk to her soon. I want everything in Thea's past to be resolved." Vance
answered.

Tumingin ito sa kanya at ngumiti.

"Everything that makes her feel guilty and keeps her from being happy."

Napaluha siya sa sinabi ng binata. Hindi niya akalaing gagawin nito ang lahat para
sa kanya.

She's so lucky to have been loved and being loved by him.

__________
Akala niya ay tutuloy na sila ng New Jersey pagkagaling ng Jamaica pero hindi pala
dahil kasama pa rin pala sila sa cruise at sasabay pa rin sila sa ruta nito.

Kasama na ang mga magulang niya at kapatid nang dumaan sila ng Bahamas Island para
magliwaliw.

Vance said she needs a breather before going to New Jersey for another drama. Hindi
porke't sinabi ng doctor na okay ang anak nila ay kakampante na sila.

"Heart, I spoke to your OB-Gyne this morning." Saad ni Vance nang nasa loob na sila
ng cabin.

Pareho silang nakaupo sa kama at nakasandal sa headboard. Katatapos lang ng

dalawang araw nilang pamamasyal sa Bahamas Island.

Napatingin siya rito. She felt a little nervous.

Napunas lang ang kaba niya nang ngumiti ito at marahang humalik sa leeg niya.

"She said it's okay to make love as long as I'll be mindful of the position,"
nakangisi nitong bulong sa tainga niya bago tumunghay sa mukha niya. He even
puckered his lips.

Natawa siya sa itsura nito.

"Are you seducing me, Vance Luanne?"

Natatawa niyang tanong rito. Kumindat naman ito.

He held her chin and kissed her slowly on the lips. It was a lingering sweet kiss.

She would've prostested but his expert tongue found its way inside her mouth making
her moan in pleasure.
Yumakap siya sa leeg nito at sinabayan ang marubdob nitong halik. Her tongue fought
with his as she gently nibbled his lower lip. She could hear his soft moans.

He kissed her slowly down to her chin. Ang kamay nito ay marahang humahaplos sa
dibdib niya. Her ass is fidgeting in sensations. It's been a long time since they
did it.

Napaliyad siya nang bumaba ang halik nito sa leeg niya habang ang kamay ay
ekspertong naglalakbay sa dibdib niya. She feels hot with his kisses. She also
started caressing his firm chest as she moaned soflty while he nuzzles and licks
her neck hotly.

Napamulagat siya nang tumigil ito sa paghalik. Nakangiti itong nakatunghay sa mukha
niya.

"Huwag na pala. Kawawa ang anak natin." Natatawa nitong sambit.

"I'm an XL remember?" Dagdag nito. He chuckled softly.

Napakunot-noo siya sa sinabi nito.

"Saka babae siya baka ma-pollute ang pagkatao niya hindi pa man lumalabas."
Natatawa nitong dagdag.

Seriously?

"Kung anu-ano'ng sinasabi mo." Tinampal niya ang balikat nito. Natatawa naman itong
bumalik sa pagkakasandal sa headboard.

"Nabitin ka 'no?" Natatawa nitong tudyo.

Inirapan naman niya ito na mas lalo nitong ikinatawa.

Tiningnan niya lang ito hanggang sa makahuma mula sa pagtawa.

"Hindi ba sinabi ng doctor sa 'yo na kailangan daw ng buntis ang gano'n?" tanong
niya rito.

Bigla na naman itong natawa ng malakas.

"Hindi mo ako mapipilit." Kantiyaw pa nito. Nailing na lang siya bago humigit ng
malalim na paghinga.

Kasi naman. Paasa talaga ang hayop.

"Matulog na tayo." Saad nito at inalalayan na siyang humiga.

"Vance, seryoso?" tanong niya rito. Natatawa lang nitong inayos ang kumot at
yumakap na sa kanya.

"Good night, sweetheart." He mumbled kissing her ear before closing his eyes.

Grabe.

She forcefully closed her eyes.

Kung hindi lang talaga malaki ang tiyan niya.

=================

49. Open Eyes

You may feel it better when you close your eyes but you'll surely miss the view.
So, it's basically just a choice between seeing or feeling and yeah, you can take
both.
________

MINORS, please leave!

_______

Their next stop was New Jersey.

Together with Vance and Thea's family, they went to the bar where everything
happened.

She was able to talk about what happened freely with Ashley and her family and how
the case was resolved. They left the detail about Ashley's biological father.

Nag-usap din sina Vance at Ashley pero talagang ayaw ng kaibigan niyang makigulo pa
sa pamilya Filan. She was okay being alone. Sanay naman daw ito. It was a decision
they had to respect.

"You will always be that one friend I will call every now and then." Ashley said
hugging her tight before they boarded the ship. She was happy that her friend looks
calm and contented. Nawala ang galit sa mga mata nito.

She also felt a certain calmness in her heart as they left New Jersey's port area.

Vance was right when he said that she needs to accept everything that happened in
the past, to forgive herself for her past mistakes and most importantly, to learn
from it.

Tanggap na niyang hindi na mababawi ang nangyari sa nakaraan at ang tangi na lang
dapat gawin ay harapin ang kasalukuyan bitbit ang lahat ng aral papunta sa
pangakong kinabukasan.

"How do you feel?" Vance asked as he hugs her from behind. They are already inside
their cabin.

Humalik ito sa puno ng tainga niya at marahang kinagat. She had to brush her arms
to stop it from having goosebumps.
"Getting better," she answered with a smile. She could feel his firm chest on her
back. It feels warm.

She inhaled deeply. Humawak siya sa mga braso ng binata na nakapulupot sa katawan
niya.

Napapikit siya nang marahan itong humalik sa leeg niya. It felt so sensual. Unti-
unting bumabangon ang init sa kanyang katawan sa ginagawa nitong paghalik.
Napakagat siya sa labi nang umakyat ang mga kamay nito sa dibdib niya.

"They're bigger." He said nibbling her jawline.

Napangiti na lang siya at hindi ito sinagot. Her body is already heating up.

Ipinaharap siya nito at hinawakan sa magkabilang balikat. She slowly opened her
eyes only to see him staring and smiling at her face.

"Tara dinner na tayo." Nakangisi nitong sambit. She pursed her lips as her forehead
creased.

"Bitin?" Natatawa nitong sambit nang makita ang reaksyon niya.

"Twice, Vance Luanne!" salubong ang kilay niyang saad rito.

Grabe. Papunta na do'n eh.

Natawa naman ito sa sinabi niya.

"Ganti ko 'yan sa pang-iiwan mo sa akin sa ere. Papatayin kita sa pagkabitin."

Natatawa nitong biro.

Natigilan siya sa biro nito.

"Ganti? Akala ko ba napatawad mo na ako?" Seryoso niyang tanong sa binata. Dahan-

dahan siyang bumitaw sa pagkakahawak nito at nagtungo sa kama para umupo. She felt
bad with his joke.

"Hey, it was just a joke." Nag-aalala naman nitong saad at naupo rin sa tabi niya.

"Okay."

Napatango siya. Maybe it was. She must not take it against him.

"Tara na mag-dinner na tayo." Saad niya sabay tayo. Hinawakan naman agad ng binata
ang kamay niya at tumayo rin. Napatitig siya sa mukha nito.

"It's only three in the afternoon." Vance said controlling a chuckle.

Natigilan siya nang mapagtanto ang sinabi nito. She even looked at her wristwatch.

"This is the dinner I was talking about." Vance said. Agad siya nitong siniil ng
halik bago pa man makapagsalita. His tongue immediately devoured her mouth as he
nibbled her lip.

She felt like her mind shuts and all that it contains is the intensity of his
kisses. Nangunyapit siya sa leeg nito nang hindi inaalintana ang laki ng tiyan
niyang nagbibigay ng espasyo sa kanilang dalawa.
Vance held her head and deepened their kiss. Soft moans escape her mouth as they
devoured each other's mouth. Ginalugad ng labi nito ang mga labi niya. Muli na
namang nag-init ang buong katawan niya lalo na nang bumaba ang halik nito sa leeg
niya. Ang mga kamay nito ay marahang humahaplos sa kaumbukan ng tiyan niya.

Napaliyad siya nang maramdaman ang paglalakbay ng dila nito sa leeg niya. Her
breathing became rugged when his hand traveled to her bre*st.

"Vance," she can't help but moan his name when his hand reach the edge of her
dress. His bare hand on her flesh felt warmer. Hinayaan niya itong tanggalin ang
suot niyang dress kasama ang underwear.

He smiled as he looked at her naked body. Inalalayan siya nito pabalik sa kama at
marahang ipinahiga. He was looking at her as he sexily

undressed himself totally.

Napalunok pa siya nang masilayang muli ang katawan nito. Her eyes landed on his
proud length.

"Did you miss it?" Kindat nito sa kanya. He even proudly held it.

She smiled. He's really big.

"Yes," she answered honestly. Lumaki naman ang ngiti nito. He immediately joined
her on the bed and positioned himself between her legs.

Napakagat siya sa labi nang dahan-dahan itong humalik sa tiyan niya. He slowly
kissed her bulging tummy as he gently nipped her skin. That mere touch made her
stomach churned in delicious sensations. Bahagya pang umaangat ang balakang niya sa
bawat paglapat ng labi nito sa balat niya.

He used his hand on her sides to support his weight as he kissed her up to her
bre*st. Pakiramdam niya ay nagdedeliryo siya sa matinding init ng katawan lalo na
nang sakupin ng labi nito ang n*pple niya. His tongue played its peak in circles.
She could feel her wetness down there as the delicious l*cking continued.

Lumipat ang labi nito sa kabilang dibdib niya at pinaglaruan ng mainit nitong dila
ang n*pple niya. Umiindayog ang balakang niya sa bawat dampi ng labi nito sa dibdib
niya na sanhi para dumikit ang basang kaselanan niya sa kahabaan nito.

His tongue found their way to her mouth. Mas lalong dumikit ang naghuhumindig
nitong sandata sa gitna ng hita niya. She can't help but sway her hips.

"Ohhh, Thea..." Vance mumbled when she glided her wetness on his erect manhood.

Tumigil ito sa paghalik sa labi niya. Inayos nito ang kamay sa magkabilang gilid
niya para suportahan ang katawan nang sa gayon ay

hindi siya madaganan. He positioned his manhood between her legs. She can't help
but feast on his hugeness.

"Here I come, sweetheart." He muttered. She bit her lip when Vance slowly entered
her core. Ramdam niya ang dahan-dahang pagpasok nito sa basa niyang pagkababae. His
hugeness is filling her core and she can't help but moan louder.

"Ohhh, Vaance," ungol niya nang dahan-dahan itong umulos sa loob niya. Her hips
swayed with his rhythm.
"Open your eyes, sweetheart." Utos nito habang patuloy pa rin sa paglabas-masok sa
kanya. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang laki at haba nito habang marahang naglalabas-
masok.

She slowly opened her eyes despite the delicious sensations he's giving her. She
misses this kind of sensation.

Vance sexily bit his lip as his green eyes stared straight at her. Binilisan nito
ang pag-ulos habang titig na titig sa kanya.

"Ohhh, Vance..." Ungol niya habang titig na titig rin sa sarap na sarap nitong
mukha. Mas lalo pa nitong binilisan ang paglabas-masok.

Nanatili itong nakatitig sa kanya at ninamnam ang ginagawang pag-ulos. Her hips are
swaying. The delicious sensations he's giving her as he thrusts deeper and faster
plus his face with a gratifying expression feels ecstatic.

He thrusts faster and deeper to her core as he looks straight at her. Kagat-kagat
nito ang labi habang mabilis na umaarangkada.

"Fasterrr..." she muttered locking her eyes on his handsome face. Ngumiti naman ito
at mas lalong binilisan. Ramdam na ramdam talaga niya ang laki at haba nito.

She could feel her nearing orgasm. Napapikit siya

pero kasabay no'n ay ang paghugot nito ng kahabaan mula sa kanya.

"What the hell?" she exclaimed as she opened her eyes. Vance was smiling at her.

"I am almost there." Inis niyang sambit rito. Her heat beats are racing. Hindi pa
rin nawawala ang sensasyong nadama kanina.

"Well, I am not there yet." Nakangisi nitong saad. Tumayo ito at hinila din siya
patayo.

Iginiya siya nito papunta sa sa harap ng dresser. Nagulat pa siya nang pinalis nito
ang lahat ng nakapatong sa mesa ng dresser na sanhi para malaglag ang mga ito sa
sahig.

Kumindat ito sa kanya at binuhat siya paupo roon.

"Put your hands on the sides," saad nito. Ipinatong niya ang magkabilang kamay sa
mesa kasabay ng pag-angat nito sa isa niyang paa at ipinatong din sa mesa. Hinila
nito ang upuan at doon ipinatong ang isa pa niyang paa. He stood in front of her
and positioned himself between her legs.

"Get ready, sweetheart." Kumindat ito sa kanya bago mabilisang humalik sa labi
niya.

When their lips parted, he immediately made his way inside her. Napasinghap siya.
His entrance was perfect. Dahan-dahan ulit itong umulos sa basa niyang pagkababae.
Nakagat niya ang labi habang titig na titig sa mukha nito.

Napaliyad siya nang humawak ito sa magkabilang gilid ng mesa at mabilis na umulos.

He rocked his length fast and hard inside her core. She wanted to close her eyes
because of the intensity of his thrusts but she controlled herself. Mas masarap
kasi sa pakiramdam ang paglabas-masok ng kahabaan nito habang kitang-kita niya kung
gaano ito nasasarapan sa ginagawa.
"Ohhh,

shit." Vance muttered as he moved in and out fastly. Putol-putol ang paghinga niya
sa tindi ng sensasyong nadarama. Ramdam na ramdam niya ang kahabaan nito habang
umuulos. She doesn't mind their position. The sensation's too hot and delicious to
stop.

Pabilis na pabilis ang pag-ulos nito. She had to stop herself from moving backwards
para hindi tumama ang likod niya sa salamin. Kapag umaabante ito ay umaabante rin
siya para salubungin ang paggalaw nito. Lalong lumalakas ang ungol niya sa bawat
pag-indayog nito.

Vance moved in and out faster and deeper. She could almost feel her insides
clenching in delicious sensations. Mas lalo nitong binilisan ang pag-ulos. Mas lalo
din niyang nararamdaman ang nalalapit niyang pagkarating sa rurok.

"Ohhh, Theaa.." Vance moaned as he thrusts deeper. Kitang-kita niya ang sarap sa
berde nitong mga mata.

"OooHhh.." she moaned louder as she feels her orgasm. Sobrang sarap sa pakiramdam.
Binilisan pa lalo ni Vance ang paggalaw hanggang sa naramdaman niya ang
pagssambulat ng katas nito sa loob niya.

Vance held her tight as he waited for their breathing to stabilize.

Yumakap ito sa kanya ng ilang minuto bago siya kinintalan ng marahang halik sa
labi. Dahan-dahan itong humiwalay. Pinangko siya nito. She smiled when her hips
were lifted from the table. Ang gaan ng pakiramdam niya.

Humalik ulit ito sa labi niya nang maibaba siya sa kama.

"How's your leg?" tanong nito habang marahang inuunat ang mga binti niya. Saka lang
niya naramdaman ang pangangawit ng paa niya kanina na nakapatong sa mesa.

"Medyo masakit." Natatawa niyang saad.

Vance stared at her.

"Ikaw kasi pinilit mo ako." Natatawa nitong tugon.

"Ako pa talaga ang namilit?" Pinalo niya ito sa braso. Natawa lang ito sa ginawa
niya at itinuloy ang pagmasahe sa binti niya.

Nakaramdam ng ginhawa ang paa niya.

He was massaging her leg for few minutes when he suddenly stopped. Napatitig naman
siya rito. Tumingin din ito sa mga mata niya.

"Magdamit ka na nga. Baka hindi na naman ako makapagpigil." Natatawa nitong bitaw
sa binti niya.

She chuckled at what he said.

"With my naked bulging tummy?" natatawa niyang tanong rito. Tumayo naman ito at
agad na kinuha ang mga damit niya at iniabot sa kanya.

"Yes with your sexy bulging tummy, sweetheart." He said as he pointed at his erect
manhood.

"Grabe." Natatawa niyang sambit. Hindi naman nito pinansin ang pagtawa niya at
nagpunta na ng bathroom.

He was already freshly bathed when he went out from the bathroom.

"Go freshen up, too. So, we could go for dinner." Saad nito sa kanya. He started
picking the bottles of perfumes he shoved on the floor. Buti na lang fully-carpeted
ang sahig kung hindi baka nagkanda-basag basag na ang mga ito.

"Magpa-deliver na lang tayo dito." Tugon naman niya. Parang tinatamad na kasi
siyang lumabas pa ng cabin pagkatapos ng ginawa nila.

Vance stared at her.

"Your family is waiting for us, there." Sambit nito.

"Nandito pa sila sa cruise ship?" kunot-noo niyang tanong kay Vance. Akala niya
kasi naiwan na ang mga ito sa New Jersey at uuwi na ng Pinas.

"Yes, they are going with us in Ireland to meet my family."

She was dumbfounded with Vance's answer.

Ireland?

Mabilis na kumabog ang dibdib niya.

=================

50.1 The Last Chapter

The road to forever is infinitely rough. You'd end up hurting each other
intentionally or unintentionally. And so, you should arm yourselves with infinite
forgiveness.
Ireland

Daan pa lang papunta sa residensiya ng mga Filan, nakamamangha na, pero hindi
magawang magpakasaya ni Thea dahil sobra-sobra ang kaba sa dibdib niya. Mas lalo na
nang marating nila ang malawak na bakuran. Mukha lang itong kakahuyan nang nasa
main road sila pero may nagtatago pa lang malaking villa. It is surrounded by
luscious green trees, manicured plants and green lawn.

She looks at Vance when the main door automatically opened. Ngumiti naman ito at
itinuro ang scanner na nakatapat sa tuktok nito.

Nakasunod lang ang mga magulang niya at kapatid sa kanila. Lounge area ang bumungad
sa mga mata nila pagpasok. Sumunod lang sila kay Vance nang tunguhin ulit nito ang
isa pang silver door na awtomatikong bumukas paglapit ng binata.

They were greeted by a large living room.

"Send us some snacks," saad ng binata bago sila naglakad papunta sa may gsala set.
Nagtaka siya dahil wala namang ibang tao sa loob. She only understood everything
when she saw a small speaker on the side of the door.

Hindi na lamang siya nagsalita at sumunod na papunta sa mahabang couch.

May malaking bar counter sa isang side. Sa silangang bahagi ay glass wall kung saan
kitang-kita ang kakahuyan sa labas. It's bright outside because it's only 2 P.M. in
Irish time zone.

May mahabang coffee table sa labas kung nasaan ang lanai.

Napatingin

siya kay Vance nang makitang may mga maids nang naglalagay ng pagkain sa coffe
table.

"My family's not here yet." Saad nito sa kanya. Nakahinga siya ng maluwag. Para
kasing hindi pa siya handang harapin ang pamilya nito ngayong alam na ng mga ito
ang nagawa niya.

Inaya sila ni Vance na magmeryenda muna bago sila iginiya sa taas kung saan sila
tutuloy. The three-storey villa is so huge. Aabot yata sa sampu ang kuwarto sa
ikalawang palapag na pare-parehong malalaki base sa espasyo ng kuwarto na
pinagdalhan ni Vance sa mga magulang niya at kapatid.

Pumasok din sila sa kuwarto ng binata matapos maihatid ang mga magulang at kapatid
niya.
It was around four in the afternoon when Vance told her that they are going
somewhere. Nagpaalam ito sa mga magulang niya bago sila lumabas ng bahay.

He drove one of the cars in the garage.

"Saan tayo pupunta?" tanong niya rito nang nasa daan na sila. Vance smiled and held
her hand. Inilapit nito sa labi ang kamay niya at marahang hinalikan.

Her heart raced. That gesture. She pretty knew where they are headed.

Pinagpawisan siya nang makitang tama ang kanyang hinala. They went inside a
memorial park.

Tahimik siyang sumunod sa binata nang bumaba ito ng sasakyan. Hinawakan nito ang
kamay niya at marahang pinipisil habang naglalakad.

They stopped in front of two epitaphs with Filan surnames. Nanlalamig ang kamay
niya. His grandparents may be dead but the thought that she was the reason of their
death gives her chills.

Vance let go of her cold hand.

"Granny,

nandito na si Thea puwede niyo nang multuhin." Natatawang saad ng binata.

Napatingala siya rito. She wasn't able to react.

Natatawa naman siya nitong kinabig at inakbayan. He even kissed the top of her
head.

She felt him inhaling deeply.

"Grandpa, grandma, hindi po niya sinadya ang nangyari." Seryoso nitong saad sa mga
nitso. She remained silent.

"Kapag nagalit kayo sa kanya, magagalit din ako sa inyo." Dagdag nito. Mas lalong
humigpit ang yakap ni Vance sa kanya.

"I'm just kidding." Natatawa nitong sambit.

Hindi niya inakalang ang isang katulad ni Vance ay makikipag-usap sa nitso ng mga
namatay na. Parang buhay lang ang mga kausap nito.

Huminga siya ng malalim.

"I know that you are in a peaceful dimension now. A place where there is no room
for hatred." Nakita niya ang pagngiti ng binata habang nakatitig sa pangalan ng
grandparents.
"I only came here to tell you that you should be proud of me." He kissed the top of
her head.

"Bukod sa magiging daddy na ako, napatunayan ko na kung ano 'yong sinasabi niyong
tunay na pagmamahal noon." Dagdag nito.

Vance stared at her and smiled.

"Meet my Thea Kimberly and our little princess inside her womb." He said looking
back at the epitaph.

That remark made her teary-eyed.

"Hello, po." She said wiping her eyes.

"S-sorry, it's my fault." She mumbled before bursting into tears. Gusto niyang
magsalita pero wala nang lumabas mula sa bibig niya. Vance held her tight and
kissed her forehead. Yumakap siya sa binata at tuluyan

nang napahagulgol.

"Stop blaming yourself for their death, Thea."

Natigilan siya nang marinig ang boses ng ama ni Vance. Dahan-dahan naman siyang
pinakawalan ng binata mula sa pagkakayakap at inakbayan na lang. Nagpunas siya ng
luha at tumingin sa direksyon nito.

Ngumiti ang ama nito sa kanya. Nasa kabilang side ang mga ito ng nitso at nakaharap
sa kanila ni Vance. Katabi ni Vaughn ang asawa.

"Like Vance, gusto ko rin noon ng hustisya sa pagkawala nila." Vaughn uttered.

Humawak siya sa baywang ni Vance para kasing pinanginigan siya ng tuhod sa narinig.
Pinisil naman nito ang balikat niya.

"But when I saw the photos of their dead bodies, I decided to rest the case and
leave it that way." Vaughn narrated.

Tumingin ito sa asawa at ngumiti.

"They were hugging each other lying on the bed." Lianna butted in. Napaluha siya
dahil naimagine niya ang itsura ng dalawang matandang magkayakap.

"They rested happily in each other's arms." Vaughn said with teary-eyes.

She wiped her cheeks. Nalaglag na naman kasi ang luha niya.

"Kaya sabi ko, siguro baka gusto na talaga nilang magpahinga kaya hindi na sila
lumabas ng kuwarto. They were not that weak not to even attempt to go out." Pahayag
nito.

Napaiyak ulit siya.

"I just didn't know that Vanna Lei being suspicious investigated further." Dagdag
nito. Hindi niya alam kunga ano ang sasabihin kaya nakinig na lamang siya.

"Don't ever think that it was your fault. Maybe it was really their time and it so
happened that

the fire was the reason of their death." Lianna stated. Nakakabilib talaga ang
kabutihan ng ina ni Vance. Mula sa pagtanggap nito kay Ashley hanggang sa sinasabi
nito ngayon.

"As for me, I do not blame you." Saad ni Vaughn na nakapagpaluhang muli sa kanya.
Yumakap siya kay Vance. Humalik naman ito sa buhok niya. Sobrang saya niya na
marinig sa mga magulang nito na hindi sila sinisisi sa nangyari.

"We do not have the right to get mad at you, too."

Napatingin siya sa babaeng nagsalita sa likuran niya. A beautiful woman with a

strong aura smiled at her.

"Vanna Lei, my elder sister." Saad ni Vance.

"Thea Kimberly." Vanna Lei muttered as she stepped towards her to give her a hug.

Napatingin siya sa mga magulang ni Vance. Ngumiti naman ang dalawa.

"Huwag mo nang hanapin ang kamukha niya. Noong bata 'yan akala ko ako ang kamukha,
lola niya pala." Natatawang biro ni Lianna. Natawa ang magkapatid. Napangiti na
lang din siya. She felt lighter with their gestures.

Napatingin siya nang may lumapit ulit sa kanila. It was Vance's triplets, Vander
and Leandrei, and another handsome man.

"He's my twin brother, Von Liam." Pagpapakilala ni Vanna sa guwapong lalaki.

"Fraternal twin?" Sambit niya. Hindi kasi magkamukha ang dalawa. May kaunting
resemblance lang sa shape ng mga mata.

"Yes, kuya Liam looks like Grandpa" Bulong naman ni Vance sa tainga niya. Lumapit
naman ang kuya nito sa kanya at nakipagkamay.

"I looked like dad, too when I was younger." Saad din nito. Napatawa siya ng
bahagya.

Leandrei

also went to her and gave her a hug.

"Ikaw pala 'yong nakausap ko sa phone," natatawang saad ni Leandrei sa kanya.

"Akalain mo nakabuntis 'tong bading 'to." Natatawa nitong dagdag. Pinandilatan

naman ito ni Vance. They all laughed at the two.

Inilapit ni Leandrei ang mukha kay Vance.

"Bro, secret lang natin na babaero ka 'di ba? Kaya sumabay ka na lang." Natatawa
nitong sambit. Napatawa siya sa sinabi ng isa. Sinadya kasi nitong iparinig sa
kanya. Susuntukin sana ito ni Vance pero mabilis itong lumayo. Napailing na lang
siya.

Their gestures are so sibling like.

Sumunod namang lumapit si Vander.

"I know you. Kasama mo sa org noong high school si Aubrey." Sambit nito sa kanya.
There is sadness in his voice. Alam niyang nagpakasal ang dalawa pagka-graduate ng
highschool, na-invite kasi siya dati pero hindi siya nagpunta. Nginitian niya ito
at tinanguan.

"Bakit parang malungkot siya? Nagkahiwalay na ba sila ni Aubrey?" bulong niya kay
Vance nang lumayo si Vander sa kinatatayuan nila.

"Shhh," Vance whispered. Nakuha naman niya agad ang ibig nitong sabihin. Napatango
na lang siya.

"So, if everything is set then we can go and meet the parents." Saad ni Vance nang
makitang okay na ang lahat.

Napangiti siya at nakahinga ng maluwag sa nangyaring pagkikita nila ng pamilya ni

Vance.

Hindi pa siya nakahuhuma sa nangyari nakabalik na agad sila sa villa.

They arrived just in time for dinner. Nasa hapag na ang mga magulang niya at
kapatid nang makarating

sila.

Napatayo pa ang mga ito nang isa-isang pumasok kasunod nila ang buong pamilya
Filan.

There were introductions before they all devoured the foods served. Parang hindi pa
siya makapaniwala na masayang nagku-kuwentuhan ang lahat sa hapag. Just as she
expected, feeling-close agad ang mommy niya sa mga Filan. Nakikipagbiruan ito sa
kanila.

Nang tanungin sila kung kailan ang kasal, agad namang sinabi ni Vance na uumpisahan
nilang magplano pagkatapos niyang manganak.

"Right now we will continue travelling around the world." Vance said and smiled at
her. Natahimik ang lahat.

"Huwag kayong mag-alala, invited kayong lahat." Natatawa nitong biro na ikinatawa
ng lahat.
Napasulyap siya sa kuya ni Vance, ito lang kasi ang hindi natawa. Sabagay, kanina
pa ito hindi masyadong nagsasalita.

"Why are you looking at my brother?" Napatingala siya kay Vance nang bumulong ito
sa tainga niya.

Inilapit naman niya ang mukha sa binata.

"Mas guwapo kasi siya sa 'yo." Bulong niya rito.

"What?!" Vance exclaimed.

Nagulat siya nang mapalakas ang boses nito.

Pero bahagya siyang natawa nang makahuma lalo na nang magtinginan ang lahat sa
kanila. Susulyap sana siya kay Liam pero kinabig nito ang ulo niya at isinubsob sa
dibdib nito.

Natatawa naman niya itong kinagat sa dibdib. Ang bango kasi.

"Bakit?" rinig niyang tanong ni Liam.

"Wala. Sa atin talagang magkakapatid, ikaw ang pinakapangit, kuya. Wala ka pang
asawa, eh." Vance muttered. She heard laughters.

She could only imagine Vance's smirk

as he said it.

Tiningala niya ang binata, kumindat naman ito sa kanya. Umayos na lamang siya ng
upo.

"Thank you dear, brother. Ibig sabihin ako ang pinakaguwapo." Natatawa namang sabat
ni Vander. They all laughed. Alam naman kasi nilang ito ang unang ikinasal sa
kanilang magkakapatid.

"Hindi nakukuha sa kaguwapuhan ang pag-aasawa at mas lalong hindi dapat

minamadali." Pangaral naman ni Lianna sa mga ito.

They all became silent.

"And Liam knows that kaya pinag-iisipan niyang maigi ang lahat." Lianna added
looking proud at her son. She saw Liam shaking his head as he looked down on his
plate.

"Maybe he hasn't found the right one yet." Vaughn added.

Vanna Lei faked a cough. "No comment." Saad nito.

Liam glared at his sister. Naghahamon naman itong tumitig sa kakambal. There is
something in their glances that intrigues her. Parang may lihim ang dalawa.

"Si ate, mamaya niyan mag-wrestling na naman kayo." Natatawang saad ni Leandrei.
The Filan's laughed. Nakitawa na lang din sila.

Lianna started narrating stories of Liam and Vanna's childhood. Madalas daw
magbalyahan ang dalawa. Parang ayaw niyang maniwala dahil mukha namang gentleman
ang isa. But there is something mysterious and intriguing about him na hindi niya
matukoy.

Napapitlag siya nang kabigin siya ni Vance.

"Don't stare at my brother." Bulong nito. Natawa na lang siya at hindi na muling
nagsalita pa.

"So, when are you going back to the cruise ship?" tanong ni Vaughn sa kanilang
dalawa.

"The next morning, dad." Tugon

naman ni Vance.

"Journey to forever na talaga," natatawang biro ni Leandrei.

Napatawa naman silang lahat.

"Speaking of that road to forever. I have one advice to all of you." Lianna butted
in. Napatingin sila rito.

Lianna inhaled deeply and smiled at Vaughn.

They waited for her to speak. Hindi agad ito nagsalita.

"Mom, binibitin mo kami." Vanna Lei protested. Hindi na yata nito mahintay
magsalita ang ina.

Lianna smiled and looked at them.

"The road to forever is infinitely rough. You'd end up hurting each other
intentionally or unintentionally. And so, you should arm yourselves with infinite
forgiveness." Sambit nito. Napatango siya.

Her principle is really unparalleled.

"That's right. Forgiveness is the key to long lasting marriage." Segunda naman ng
mommy niya at natatawang tumingin sa daddy niya. Napangiti na lang siya sa mga ito.
She would surely remember that always.

Gaya ng pagpapatawad sa kanya ni Vance sa kabila ng lahat.

Gaya ng magpapatawad ng buong pamilya nila at pagtanggap sa kanya ng walang pag-

aalinlangan.

It was a fun dinner. She was able to enjoy it.

She went out to the Lanai nang lumabas sila ng dining area. Hinila kasi agad nina
Leandrei at Vander si Vance kaya napahiwalay ito sa kanya. Her parents and sister
went up to their rooms. Ang mag-asawang Filan naman ay naiwan sa kusina at
nagbibilin sa mga maids.

She inhaled deeply. She felt really relieved. Nawala kasi lahat ng agam-agam niya.
It didn't turn out worst as what she expected. Mababait pala

ang pamilya Filan.

Naglakad-lakad siya sa malawak na lawn sa bandang likod ng villa. Medyo maliwanag

kasi doon dahil natatanglawan ng ilaw mula sa kabahayan. Medyo madilim lang sa
bandang kakahuyan.

Napatingin siya sa kanyang likuran nang makarinig ng mga kaluskos. May mga ilang
punong kahoy doon kaya medyo madilim.

Tatalikod na sana siya dahil bigla siyang kinabahan nang makita si Liam na lumabas
mula sa madilim na parte. She saw how Vanna Lei ran after him. Sisipain sana nito
ang kambal pero agad itong nakailag.

Her heart raced. Napahawak siya sa tiyan nang makitang sabay na bumunot ang baril
ang dalawa at itinutok sa isa't-isa. She saw rage in their eyes.

Naitulos siya sa kinatatayuan. Kitang-kita niya ang sabay sanang pagkalabit ng

dalawa sa gatilyo pero nasipa ni Vanna ang kamay ni Liam kasabay naman ng paghawak
ng binata sa baril ng dalaga. Bumagsak ang kalas-kalas na baril ng dalaga sa
damuhan.

"Hey, sweetheart nandiyan ka lang pala." Napalingon siya kay Vance na nakangiting
palapit sa kanya. Agad itong yumakap nang makalapit.

"Yong mga kapatid mo," nag-aalala niyang saad at agad na ibinalik ang tingin sa
direksyon ng kambal pero wala na ang dalawa.

Tumingin siya sa damuhan. Wala na doon ang mga nahulog na baril ng dalawa.

Napapanganga siyang tumingin muli kay Vance.

"Sino?" Kunot-noo nitong saad.

"Ang ate at kuya mo, magbabarilan na kanina." Saad niya rito.

Vance laugh at her and pinch her nose.

"Nagpa-practice lang ang dalawang 'yon." Natatawa nitong saad.

"Tara na sa loob. Bawal sa 'yo ang magpuyat." Inakbayan siya nito at iginiya
papasok.

Napalingon siya ulit sa direksyon ng dalawa kanina pero wala nang bakas ang dalawa.
Practice lang ba talaga 'yon? Para saan? Why did she see rage in their eyes?

Naiiling na lang siyang sumabay sa paglalakad ni Vance. Hindi lang siguro siya
sanay na gano'n ang mga kapatid nito. Ayon nga sa kuwento ng ina ng mga ito kanina,
madalas ang mga itong mag-duwelo. Maybe that's just it.

Hindi na dapat niya iniisip ang bagay na iyon. Besides, she has a lifetime to know
the Filans better.

Napangiti siya sa naisip.

She will be a part of their family soon.

=================

50.2 The Last Chapter

Your life, unlike the cliché broken glass metaphor, may still be fixed like that of
a brand new no matter how ruined it is.

Mula sa Ireland ay itinuloy nila ang world cruise gaya ng ipinangako ni Vance. Thea
is happy. She couldn't believe how everything was fixed. She couldn't even imagine
how broken her life had been.

Ngayon sobrang gaan ng pakiramdam niya habang naglalakbay sila. Nagpunta sila ng
Paris, France ng ilang araw bago itinuloy ang cruise papuntang Morocco. They spent
a few days there.

They also stopped over Senegal for few days. Pitong buwan na ang tiyan niya bago
sila nagtungo ng Liberia. There are doctors inside the cruise ship at may clinic
din na kumpleto sa gamit kaya hindi sila nangangamba.
After Liberia, they traveled to Congo. They also went to Angola and Namibia.

Walong buwan na ang tiyan niya nang naglalayag na sila patungong South Africa. They
spent more than a week in Africa dahil nag-sponsor ang mga passengers ng isang
medical and feeding program. Kaya pala may mga ginagawang charity dance ball sa
loob ng cruise ship dahil doon.

After South Africa, they traveled to Lesotho.

Malapit na sila sa susunod na bansa nang maramdaman niya ang pananakit ng tiyan.

The pain was unbearable that even Vance got nervous. Agad siya nitong binuhat
papunta sa clinic ng barko.

Agad din siyang sinuri ng doctor.

"Nagle-labor pains na siya pero hindi pa naman manganganak. The opening has to
be...."

Naghilab muli

ang tiyan niya kaya hindi na niya naintindihan ang sentimetrong sinasabi ng doctor.

Pakiramdam niya ay manganganak na talaga siya sa tindi ng sakit.

Vance held her hand and kissed it. Alalang-alala ang mukha nito. Tumigil ang
paghilab ng ilang minuto pero mayamaya ay sumakit ulit. She's lying on one of the
beds in the clinic.

"Manganganak na yata ako." Daing niya habang nakapikit dahil sa tindi ng paghihilab
ng tiyan. Sobrang sakit ng tiyan niya. Mas lalo namang humigpit ang pagkakahawak ni
Vance sa kanya.

Tinawag pa muli nito ang OB-Gyne pero ganoon lang ulit ang sinabi. Isang oras bago
ulit unti-unting nawala ang sakit.

"Vance, where are we?" tanong niya rito nang mawala kaunti ang sakit. Naalala niya
kasing ipapangalan nila sa bansa kung saan ipanganganak ang baby nila.

Napalunok ito sa tanong niya.

"We are at the coast of Mozambique." Tugon nito.

Mas lalong sumakit ang tiyan niya sa narinig. Napahiyaw siya. Hindi niya alam kung
sa balakang o sa puson o sa loob ng pagkababae niya nanggagaling ang sakit.
Vance immediately called the doctor again.

Pumasok naman ulit ito sa kuwarto.

"Labor pains pa lang talaga. Kung gusto niyo, puwede ko siyang bigyan ng pampahilab
para mas mapabilis ang pagle-labor niya." Sambit ng doctor.

"No!" / "Hindi!"

Nagulat pa ang doctor sa sabay nilang pagsigaw ni Vance. Naiiling naman itong
lumabas ng kuwarto. Nakukulitan na yata sa kanila. Napapangiti lang ang nurse na
kasama nila sa loob ng kuwarto.

Napakagat siya sa labi at umusal ng taimtim na dasal.

Huminga

siya ng malalim hanggang unti-unting nawala ang sakit. Ilang minuto siyang hindi
nakaramdam ng matinding pananakit.

"Hindi na masakit?" Vance asked.

"Kaunti na lang." Tugon niya. Sumisigid-sigid pa rin kasi ang sakit.

"I have to make a phone call." Saad nito. Bumitaw naman siya sa kamay nito at
napatango.

Vance stood up and swiped his phone.

"Captain---"

Hindi na niya narinig ang sinabi nito dahil lumabas na ito ng silid.

Bumalik ito matapos ang ilang minuto. Ilang saglit lang nakaramdam na siya ng
antok.

Hindi niya alam kung ilang oras siyang nakatulog. Nagising na lamang siya ulit sa
tindi ng sakit ng tiyan.

It took few hours of labor pains before they transferred her to the delivery room.
Vance is holding her hand tightly. Pinagpapawisan siya sa tindi ng pananakit. She
felt like her body is breaking into two as the pain seethed in between her thighs.
Her water bag broke.

Sobrang sakit. Mabuti na lang nasa tabi lang niya ang asawa.

Nakailang ire siya bago narinig ang pag-iyak ng anak. She was so tired. Pero
napangiti siya nang masilayan ang anak.

She was so exhausted that after they cleaned her up, she was able to sleep right
away.

Nagising na lang siya na nasa loob na ng cabin. Vance is sleeping beside her.
Nakayakap ito sa kanya.

She brushed his face. Napamulat naman ito.

"How are you, sweetheart?" Nakangiti nitong tanong.

"I'm okay," saad naman niya rito.

"Yong baby natin?" tanong niya. Bumangon naman ito. Itinuro nito ang crib sa tabi
ng kama. May mga baby stuffs na pala sa loob ng cabin. Mukhang pinalipat nito lahat
ng mga kakailanganin ng baby nila.

Nagpatulong ito sa nurse na nakaupo pala sa couch para buhatin ang baby.

She almost wept a tear carrying their cute baby girl in her arms. She stared at her
dainty body. There is a different feeling of joy inside her heart.

Huminga siya ng malalim.

"What's our baby's name?" Tanong niya kay Vance.

Napayuko naman ito. Napatitig siya sa anak.

Mozambique?

She pursed her lips.

Vance stared at her.

"Her name is Vea Seychelles."

"We're already in Seychelles?" tanong niya rito. Kumindat naman ito at tuluyang
ngumiti.

"The captain of this ship deserves a double salary." Saad nito.

Napatawa siya ng mahina.

"And the navigators, too." Natatawa nitong dagdag.

Nginitian na lamang niya ang binata halata ang kasiyahan sa mukha nito.

"My sweetheart, Thea Kimberly and my baby, Vea Seychelles, I love you both." He
said kissing her forehead. Yumakap ito sa kanilang mag-ina.

"We love you, too, daddy Vancey." Natatawa naman niyang tugon rito. Tumawa lang
binata.

She's overjoyed to see him this happy.

#MayForever

#ForeverForgiveness

#EpilogueNaLang

=================

Epilogue

Six Months Later

Thea breathe in and out slowly as she feels the sea breeze brushing off her face.
It's past 6 P.M. Lubog na ang araw. Magkasama lang sila kanina ni Vance na nanonood
ng sunset kaya lang biglang dumating ang mga ka-triplets nito at hinila ang asawa
sa kung saan. They even joked that there is no honeymoon happening. Natawa na lang
siya.

Katatapos lang ng kasal nila kaninang umaga. They opted to celebrate the wedding
ceremony at the VLF island. Symbolic daw kasi sabi ni Vance. She also agreed with
it.

Only close friends and relatives were invited. Inihatid na ang mga bisita kanina
paalis ng isla. Some rode on choppers, the others boarded a boat to the mainland of
Bataan.

Ang tanging naiwan na lang ay ang mga pamilya nila. All the employees of the
laboratory are on leave. Vance declared the two days preparation on the island and
the wedding day as a holiday for all. Kaya nagsiuwian ang mga ito.

Medyo nalungkot lang siya na hindi nakarating si Ashley. Ipinangako pa naman ng

kaibigan na pupunta pero hindi ito dumating. They are supposed to fetch her at the
airport two days ago but she sent a message telling that she had to meet a big
client as if it was more important than her wedding.

She inhaled deeply. Hindi siya dapat ma-badvibes kakakasal lang niya.

Pabalik na sana siya sa cottage nila ni Vance nang masulyapan si Liam na nakatayo
sa 'di kalayuan. Maaga silang nag-dinner kanina bago naghiwa-hiwalay mula sa hapag.

Liam brought a date at the wedding. Nagtaka siya kung bakit mag-isa lang ito sa may
dalampasigan. Sabi ni Vance first time daw na nangyaring nagdala ito

ng babae sa okasyon sa kanilang pamilya baka daw dinamdam nito ang pangangantiyaw
ng kapatid kaya nagdala ng ka-date. Vanna Lei is also with someone.

Nakita niyang lumapit si Vanna Lei sa kakambal. Humalukipkip ito sa harap ng

kapatid at mukhang may sinasabi sa isa. Hindi niya ito marinig. Kanina pa niya
ramdam ang tension sa pagitan ng dalawa sa harap ng hapag. Patingin-tingin si Vanna
Lei sa kasama ni Liam kanina. Hindi niya sigurado kung siya lang ang nakapansin
no'n o baka dahil tinitingnan lang niya ang dalaga kaya pansin na pansin niya.

Gusto niya kasi sanang maka-close ang hipag kaso bilang na bilang lang panahong
nakikita niya ito.

Sabagay tuwing weekend lang naman sila nagpupunta sa family house nina Vance.
Pagkauwi kasi nila noon galing sa cruise ay sinorpresa siya ni Vance at dinala sa
bago nilang bahay. They stayed there since then.
Nakita niyang tinalikuran ni Liam ang kapatid pero marahas namang hinablot ni Vanna
ang braso nito. Nakita niyang tumalim ang tinging ipinukol ni Liam sa kapatid.
Nagsalita ito. She was intrigued kaya dahan-dahan siyang naglakad papunta sa
kinaroonan ng dalawa.

There is really something going on between the two that she can't pinpoint.

Nagtago pa siya sa may puno ng niyog nang makitang napalinga-linga si Vanna.

"You're really a coward. Dapat siya ang dinala mo dito sa isla at ipinakilala sa
lahat." Rinig niyang sambit ni Vanna sa kapatid. Tiningnan niya ang dalawa.

She saw how Liam's reaction turned sour.

"Di ba ikaw ang matapang? Ikaw sana ang nagdala." Maanghang na saad ni Liam. Hindi
niya maintindihan ang usapan ng dalawa.

Sino ang

gustong ipakilala ni Vanna?

She gasped when she saw Vanna giving Liam a flying kick. Agad itong naharang ni
Liam. Vanna attempted to punch her brother pero nakailag ito. They started a fist
fight pero halos walang tumatama. Lalabas na sana siya para sawayin ang dalawa
dahil parang magsasakitan na talaga pero bigla siyang natigilan sa ginawa ni Liam.
He was able to get hold of his sisters hand and gripped her on the waist.

Mas lalo siyang napanganga nang ilapit ni Liam ang mukha sa kapatid. She blinked
twice. For a moment she thought he'd kiss her. There was something in his eyes.

Naitulos siya sa kinatatayuan. There is definitely something between the twins.

Pilit na kumawala si Vanna pero mahigpit itong niyakap ng kapatid. He's biting his
lip. She's not sure if he was angry or there is something more.

"Bitawan mo ako." She heard Vanna Lei muttered.

"Huwag kang magmatapang. Darating ang araw kakailanganin mo rin ang tulong ko."
Saad naman ng isa.

"I don't need your help. I'm strong enough." Vanna Lei answered.

If they are not twins, she'd think they are having a lover's quarrel.

She saw Liam smirking.

"I was your first real kiss, remember?" He muttered gripping Vanna harder by the
waist. Liam doesn't look like he's joking.

"Dad will kill you if he finds out." Vanna Lei hissed.

Napasinghap siya at napahawak sa dibdib sa narinig. Kinabahan siya nang tumingin si

Liam sa direksyon niya. He immediately released Vanna from his grip.

"Kanina pa kayo diyan?" matapang

na tanong ni Vanna.

"What's happening?" Napalingon siya nang may nagsalita sa likuran niya.

Ang dalaga pala ang tinitingnan ni Liam sa direksyon niya at hindi siya.

"CL," Liam immediately walked towards the woman's direction. Hindi naman nagsalita
ang dalaga. Her reaction is unreadable.

Vanna Lei walked to their direction. Inunahan nito ang kakambal.

"You know how much I adore you, Christine Laiza but I just can't stand the
cowardice of my brother." She muttered before walking out.
The woman pursed her lips. Tumingin ito kay Liam na blangko ang ekpresyon bago
tumalikod at tumakbo palayo. Sinundan naman ito ng binata.

She was left dumbfounded.

Anong nangyayari?

Ilang minuto siyang nakatunganga at hindi makapaniwala sa mga narinig. She's trying
to connect the dots but it was so puzzling.

Napasinghap siya nang biglang may yumakap mula sa likuran niya.

Vance Luanne.

She recognized his touch and scent right away.

"Sorry, naiwan ka kanina. Ang kulit kasi ng dalawa." Natatawa nitong sambit sabay
halik sa leeg niya. He nuzzled her neck.

"Vance," she muttered moving away from his embrace. Humarap siya sa asawa.

Kunot-noo naman itong napatitig sa kanya.

"Yong ate at kuya mo bakit wala pa silang asawa?" tanong niya rito.

"Ha?" mas lalong kumunot ang noo nito.

"Kasi kanina parang may kakaiba sa kanila." She doesn't want to think that the two
are lovers but her mind can't seem to brush off the idea.
"Kakaiba talaga ang love-hate relationship ng dalawa. Huwag mo nang problemahin."
Natatawang sambit ni Vance. Hinila siya nito payakap.

"Ako na lang muna ang problemahin mo. It's our honeymoon." Nakangiti nitong saad.
Kumindat pa ito bago siya hinalikan ng mabilis sa labi.

She closed her eyes forcibly and tried to brush off about Liam and Vanna. Baka nga
hindi totoo ang hinala niya. Vanna's last words to Christine Laiza seems like the
woman knows something, too.

She inhaled deeply. Saka na lang siguro siya magtatanong.

"Sige i-check na nga lang natin si Velle." Tugon niya sa asawa. Vea Seychelles'
nickname is Velle.

"Tulog na siya. Nandoon sa room nina mom at dad." Nakangiti ulit nitong saad.
Kinuha ng mga in-laws niya ang anim na buwang gulang na anak para daw hindi
makaistorbo sa kanila ngayong gabi.

Hinapit siya nito sa baywang at idinikit sa katawan.

"For now, ito na lang muna ang i-check mo." Kindat nito. He gripped her waist.
Ipinaramdam nito ang naghuhumindig na pagkalalaki sa kanya.

"Bastos ka talaga." Natatawa niyang saway rito.

Vance laughed and immediately carried her. Napahawak na lang siya sa leeg nito.

"Kaya ka na-inlove sa akin." Natatawa nitong sambit. Mabilis itong naglakad papunta
sa cottage habang buhat-buhat siya. Napatawa na lang siya.

As always, Vance couldn't wait to get laid.

_____

There will be two special chapters - one spg and one answer to some questions.

=================

Special SPG Chapter

MINORS, get your ass off this part, please.

_____

Thea thought Vance would put her down when they entered the cottage but he didn't.
Tuloy-tuloy siya nitong binuhat papunta sa kuwarto sa taas.

Napahiyaw pa siya nang walang sabi-sabi siyang inihagis sa kama. Mabuti na lang
waterbed ito.

Vance chuckled but signaled her to stay there. Medyo nahilo siya sa pagbato nito sa
kanya sa kama kaya hindi na lang siya gumalaw.

He said something that turned off the lights. Kasabay din no'n ang pag-ilaw ng
lampshade na nakakabit sa taas ng headboard. Then, the music started.
Gusto niyang matawa nang makitang unti-unting nagsasayaw ang asawa.

"What are you doing?" she asked trying to suppress her chuckle.

Kumindat lang ito at marahang inindayog ang katawan.

"Tama na ang sagwa." Tawang-tawa niyang sambit rito.

Vance didn't stop swaying. Tumalikod ito mula sa direksyon niya at unti-unting
naghubad ng damit.

She bit her lip when his perfect butt was exposed. He started swaying his hips like
a pro.

She swallowed hard when he slowly moved to face her. Then, she felt it her stomach
turned upside down. Agad siyang napatakbo sa CR at naduwal.

"Sweetheart, what's wrong?" Nag-aalala nitong sambit. Sumunod pala agad ito sa
kanya.

"Hindi mo pa nga naisusubo, nabibilaukan ka na." Vance said as he caressed her

back.

Natampal niya ito sa braso. Puro kasi biro. She washed her face. Mabuti na lang
natigil din ang pagduduwal

niya.

"Are you pregnant?" nakangiti nitong tanong sa kanya nang humarap siya..

"Nakakasuka lang talaga no'ng sayaw mo, promise." Natatawa niyang tugon.
Alam naman kasi nito na dinatnan siya limang araw na ang nakararaan. Ito pa nga ang
nagsasabi na sana hindi na siya magkaroon sa araw ng kasal nila.

"Ah, gano'n?" Taas-kilay naman nitong saad. He pursed his lips as he carried her to
the shower area.

Napahiyaw siya nang maramdaman ang lagaslas ng malamig na tubig pagkababa nito sa
kanya.

She wanted to run but Vance held her tight.

"Malamig, Vance isa!" nanggagalaiti niyang hiyaw habang humuhulagpos rito pero
hindi siya nito binitawan. Sobrang lamig kasi ng tubig.

"Dalawa. Kapag 'di mo ako binitawan. I swear hindi kita bibigyan ng anak na
lalaki." Banta niya rito.

Natawa lang si Vance sa pagbilang niya.

Mabuti na lang at naging maligamgam na ang tubig. Maybe he adjusted the heater.

"So nasusuka ka sa sayaw ko?" naghahamon nitong tanong.

Siya naman ang napatawa. Alam niya kung kailan ito napipikon. Yumakap siya rito at
marahang pinadausdos ang kamay pababa sa malaman nitong pang-upo. It felt good.

"Ang sexy no'ng paggalaw nito kanina." Tudyo niya rito. Vance moved closer to her.
He's totally naked. Ramdam niya ang laki nitong dumikit sa harapan niya. Her wet
clothes did no justice to Vance's hotness.

Napakagat siya sa labi nang isandal siya nito sa malamig na pader. The shower
stopped drizzling.
She gasped when he forcibly tore her dress.

"Saang porn site mo naman napanood na magandang

punitin ang damit?" Natatawa niyang tanong rito.

"Ang KJ mo talaga. Kanina ka pa." Pinitik nito ang ilong niya. Iningusan naman niya
ito.

"Sexual fantasy kaya ng babae 'tong ginagawa ko." He mumbled kissing her ear.

Napatawa siya ulit at pilit umiwas sa halik ng asawa. Siya naman ang pumitik sa noo
nito nang nakakunot itong tumitig sa kanya. His hand rested on the wall above her
head. Mas lalo itong dumikit sa kanya at tumitig.

"Nagpapaniwala ka kasi sa mga pinapanood mo. Masakit 'pag pinupunit yung damit."
Natatawa niya ulit itong pinitik sa ilong. Medyo napalakas yata ang pitik niya
dahil gumuhit ang inis sa mukha nito.

"Ang sabihin mo KJ ka!" Napipika nitong sambit. Lumayo ito sa kanya.

"Rapist lang ang namumunit ng damit." Natatawa niyang tudyo.

"Ewan ko sa 'yo!" Inis nitong bulalas. Natawa siya nang hinila siya ulit nito sa
tapat ng dutsa at binuksan ito. He even set it to the coldest. Nagpumiglas siya
pero malakas siya nitong hinawakan at itinapat sa dutsa.

"Serves you right. Huwag kang magpapatulong sa akin para painitin ang katawan mo."
Nakangisi nitong sambit. Sa halip na mainis ay natawa na lang siya.

Vance went out of the bathroom looking grumpy.

Natatawa na lang niyang itinuloy ang paliligo.

Nanonood na si Vance ng TV paglabas niya ng bathroom. Nakaupo ito sa couch at hindi
man lang tumingin sa kanya. He's

already wearing boxers and white shirt. Nainis na yata ito ng tuluyan. Ayaw na ayaw
kasi nito ang nabibitin tapos inasar-asar pa niya.

"Hey," Untag niya rito at umupo sa tabi nito.

"Mauna ka ng matulog." Sambit nito at sumulyap lang saglit sa direksyon niya bago
ibinalik sa TV ang atensyon. He's watching F1 racing.

She moved close to him. Yumakap siya sa baywang nito.

"Galit ka ba kasi nasira ko ang dance number mo?" Pinigilan niyang matawa sa
sariling tanong. Vance only glanced at her.

"Pangarap mo sigurong maging gigolo 'no?" Tudyo niya. She can't help but laugh when
she saw his reaction. Sutil ito madalas pero kapag nauunahan sobrang pikon naman.

"Hmm, kanina ka pa!" sambit nito sabay hawak sa braso niya. Napatawa siya nang
kalasin nito ang pagkakayakap niya.

"Matulog ka na lang." Inis nitong taboy sa kanya.

Napatawa siya.

Instead of moving away she sat on his lap facing him. Yumakap siya sa leeg nito at
ipinalibot ang mga hita sa baywang nito.
She saw him controlling his smile.

"Kunwari pang ayaw." Natatawa niyang sambit. Mabilis itong mapikon pero mabilis
lang din amuin.

"Sinong may ayaw?" Nakangiti naman nitong tanong. Humawak ito sa baywang niya at
marahang pinisil. That mere touch made her pine for more.

Vance smiled seductively as he gazed at her bre@sts. Bahagya kasi itong kita dahil
sa baba ng neckline ng suot niyang negligee. Hindi pa siya nagsuot ng panloob. He
gently pulled down the string exposing her bre@sts fully. She didn't move. Nanatili

lang siyang nakakandong at nakayakap sa leeg nito.

Vance smiled as he caressed her back. He's gently pinching and massaging her skin.
Nakatitig lang ito sa mayayaman niyang dibdib. His touch made her hips jiggle a
bit. He's really good at pleasuring a woman. His simple touch makes her feel hot.

She crossed their distance and kissed him hungrily. Vance held her tightly and gave
back the intensity of her kiss. His tongue sensually devoured her mouth gently
sucking her lower lip. Napasinghap siya nang umakyat ang kamay nito sa dibdib niya.
He continued kissing her hungrily as he nibbled her lower lip. Her hips kept
fidgeting at his touch.

Napaungol siya nang dumako ang labi nito sa pababa sa leeg niya habang ang mga
kamay ay marahang minamasahe ang kanyang mga dibdib. Mas lalo nitong idinikit ang
katawan sa kanya. She could feel his throbbing manhood. Walang silbi ang telang
namamagitan sa katawan nila. Her body started rocking for more as he felt his
tongue licking her neck skillfully.

"Ooohhh, Vance..." Her moan filled the room when he gently nibbled her skin. Her
hips are already rocking with his length. Umakyat ang halik nito sa tainga niya.
Napasinghap siya.

She had to move away a little to gather her breath.

Napakunot-noo ang asawa nang bigla siyang umalis sa kandungan nito at tumayo. Her
body is still quivering in pleasure.
"Let's change the game." She said smiling. Mabilis niya itong hinila papunta sa
kama at marahang itinulak. She went to the drawer and took a necktie.

Vance smiled when he saw what she's holding. Nakasandal na ito sa headboard ng
kama. Napakagat pa ito sa labi nang

makitang hinubad na niya ng tuluyan ang lahat ng suot.

She went in front of him and removed his shirt before holding both his hands.

"I kindda like your game," he muttered when she started tying both his hands on his
back.

She smirked. Hinigpitan pa niya lalo ang pagkakatali ng kamay nito. She bets he
wouldn't like this game if he tells him the name of it.

Napakagat siya sa labi at kumindat rito.

She heard his groan when she sat on his lap. Dumikit kasi ang kaselanan niya sa
nakaumbok nitong sandata.

Marahan niyang ipinadaan ang palad sa dibdib nito. He flinched but he's tied kaya
hindi ito makahawak sa kanya. Napangiti siya.

She slowly moved her face down and nipped his jawline slowly teasing him. Napalunok
ito sa ginawa niya. She slowly licked his neck as her hips rock on his length. She
didn't know why hearing his moans made her wet down there.

She gently nibbled his skin down to his chest. She could feel his rugged breathing.
Mas lalo niyang pinag-igihan ang paghalik rito habang ang kamay ay pinaglakbay sa
matigas nitong abs.

"Ohh, shit...Thea..." She felt his lower body rocking and writhing. She licked his
n!pple and move her tongue in circles gently biting it. She heard him moan again.

"Ohhh...shit...Sweetheart untie me.." Vance wriggled.

Tiningnan naman niya ito at napangiti.

"No" she uttered as she pulled his boxers down. His hard and big manhood sprang

up.

Napakagat siya sa labi. Itinuloy niya ang paghalik sa dibdib nito. Her tongue
played in circles with his n!pple as her hand traveled on his firm abdomen.

She moved her hips slowly gliding on his manhood. Vance hips also moved. She knows
he's trying to put his length inside her but he can't.

"You're killing me," he mumbled as he wriggled beneath her. She could feel his
throbbing manhood poking on her wetness. He's trying to change their position pero
tinawanan lang niya ang asawa at pinanatili ang posisyon nila.

She moved her body up. She didn't even need to tell him what she wants. Agad nitong
sinunggaban ang dibdib niya nang makatapat sa mukha nito.

Her breathing hitched when he s*cked her n!pples. It made her body writhe in
pleasure. Napahawak siya sa balikat nito habang marahang iniindayog ang balakang.
Mas lalong nag-init ang pakiramdam niya sa bawat pagdikit ng kahabaan nito sa basa
niyang pagkababae.

His expert tongue playing the peak of her bre@st is adding to the delirious
sensations. Pinaglandas nito ang dila sa dibdib niya na mas lalong nakapagpainit sa
nararamdaman niya. Dinaanan ng dila nito ang gitna ng dibdib niya papunta sa
kabila. His hardness is rubbing against her core as she moved her body. Napapaliyad
siya sa bawat pagsipsip nito sa mayaman niyang dibdib.

"Ohhh, goodness." She mumbled in pleasure. She can't help it. She held his
shoulders tightly, moved her body up and positioned herself on his manhood. She
slowly glided to meet his length. Napalunok

siya nang maramdaman ang kahabaan nito na unti-unting pumuno sa pagkababae niya.

"Untie me, please." Saad nito nang magsimula siyang umindayog pataas at pababa sa
kahabaan nito pero hindi siya nakinig. She took charged and started moving up and
down his length.
Napapakagat siya sa labi sa bawat pagsalubong nito sa pagkababae niya. Mas lalo
niyang binilisan ang pagtaas-baba sa naghuhumindig nitong pagkalalaki. She can't
help but moan. Pati ang asawa ay napapaungol din sa bawat hagod ng basa niyang
pagkababae sa kahabaan nito.

"Ohhh, shit..." She heard him moan as she moved in and out faster.

Habang bumibilis ang galaw niya mas lalo niyang nararamdaman ang nalalapit niyang
pagkarating sa rurok. Humigpit ang hawak niya sa balikat ng asawa. The feel of his
hardness filling her core gives her so much pleasure. She moved fastly up and down.
Gumagalaw din ang dibdib niya sa bawat pagtaas-baba niya sa kahabaan nito na mas
lalong nakadagdag sa sarap na nararamdaman niya. Her hips rocked in pleasure as her
core clenches against his throbbing manhood.

"Untie me, sweetheart. Ohhh..."

Hindi niya ito pinakinggan. She can't stop. Her climax is about to come. She moved
up and dwon faster.

"Shit...Don't cum yet," saad ng asawa pero hindi siya nakinig. She moved and glided
her s3x faster and deeper... Her breathing hitched as she quivered in writhing
pleasure.

"Shit!" Vance cursed when she stopped. Agad naman siyang umalis sa ibabaw nito.

"Fuck, you're done?" naiinis nitong sambit. Napangiti siya. Kinindatan niya ito
sabay tayo.

"Naalala mo 'yong ginawa mo no'ng buntis ako?" She said with a raised eyebrow. A
triumphant smile appeared on her lips. That scene is vivid on her mind. Sobrang
binitin siya nito.

Naglakad siya palayo sa kama.

"Hey, comeback!" sigaw nito at pilit na tinatanggal ang pagkakatali sa kamay.

Napatawa naman siya.

"I forgot to tell the name of our game." She said smiling.

"It's called 'spell bitin'." She told him before moving towards the bathroom.

Natatawa siya habang binubuksan ang faucet sa may bath tub. She needs a hot bath.
Pakanta-kanta pa siya habang naglalagay ng body bath sa tubig.

Hinintay niyang mapuno ang tub.

Sasampa na sana siya nang biglang may yumakap mula sa likuran niya.

"Sinong nagsabing puwede mo akong bitinin?" Vance spoke behind her ear. He gently
licked her earlobe. Nagsitayuan pa ang balahibo niya sa katawan.

His hand clasped her breast.

"There is no room for 'bitin' in this marriage." He muttered before kissing her
nape.

She closed her eyes as she felt his tongue licking her skin. Ang kamay nito ay
nagsimulang maglikot sa dibdib niya. Marahan nitong pinipisil habang ang hinlalaki
ay naglalaro sa n!pple niya.

"Ohhhh," She can't help but moan. She could feel his throbbing manhood on her back.
Patuloy siya nitong hinalikan sa batok.

Bumaba ang isang kamay nito sa pagkababae niya habang ang isa
ay naiwang nagmamasahe sa dibdib niya.

He gently massaged her core as his kiss trailed on her neck. Napapaliyad siya sa
bawat paghagod ng kamay nito sa kaselanan niya. Idagdag pa ang masarap na paghimas
nito sa dibdib niya. Her breathing became rugged.

His finger started teasing her cl!t. Namasa ang pagkababae niya sa ginawa nito.
Napakagat siya sa labi sa tindi ng sensasyon. Her head's tilting slowly as he felt
his thumb rubbing her n!pple while his tongue licks her neck wildly.

Her hips started swaying with his hand.

Napamulagat siya nang tumigil ito sa ginagawa at ipinaharap siya.

Before she could even react, he already lifted her up. He skillfully inserted his
hard manhood on her core. Kulang na lang ay mapahiyaw siya sa tindi ng sensasyong
lumukob sa kaibuturan niya. She clasped her legs on his waist when he started
rocking her up and down his length. His hand supported her hips. Yumakap siya ng
mahigpit sa balikat nito.

Para lang siyang magaan na bagay na itinaas baba nito sa kahabaan. She could feel
his hardness and it's giving her pleasure. Parang nauulit lang ang sarap na
naramdaman niya kanina.

Mabilis siya nitong itinaas baba habang umuulos sa loob niya. Hindi niya alam kung
saan ibabaling ang ulo sa tindi ng nararamdaman. Mas lalo na nang maglakad ito
habang mabilis siyang iniindayog. His hardness continued rocking inside her making
her moan louder.

Naramdaman niya ang paglapat ng likod niya sa pader habang mabilis pa rin ang pag-
ulos nito sa loob niya. Humigpit ang yakap niya sa asawa nang bitawan nito ang
balakang niya at humawak sa baywang niya. Humigpit pa lalo ang kapit ng mga hita
niya sa baywang ni Vance.

"Ohhhh, shit..." Vance moaned as he pushed himself harder. Napapaangat ang katawan
niya bilis ng paglabas-masok nito. His hand on her waist guided his fast movements.
Ramdam na ramdam niya ang tigas at laki nito habang umuulos ng mabilis.
"Vaannnce," she moaned as she felt her s3x clenching again. Vance moved faster
rocking her wetness harder. Mabilis ang ginawa nitong pag-ulos. Humigpit ang kapit
nito sa baywang niya at mas lalong ibinaon ang kahabaan sa loob niya. Ilang beses
itong umulos ng mabilis. Ang katawan nito ay umiindayog sa bawat pag-arangkada.
Pabilis nang pabilis. Gusto niyang humiyaw pero kinagat na lamang niya ang labi sa
tindi ng sensasyon. Ilang beses itong umulos ng mabilis hanggang sa sabay nilang
marating ang rurok.

She breath in heavily to stabilize the beating of her heart.

"No more bitin feeling, sweetheart." He mumbled in her ear as he held her tight.
Napatango na lang siya. Her body's still writhing in pleasure to even utter a word.

=================

Special Closing Chapter

There's a reason why people stay but there is more than enough reason why they had
to leave.

Thea sobs as she held the small urn in her arms.

"I got mad at her when she didn't show up on our wedding day." Lumuluha niyang
pahayag. Kinabig siya ni Vance at hinayaang umiyak sa dibdib nito. It's been six
months since they got married.

Her heart's breaking into pieces as she remembered her conversation with Ashley a
month ago. Humihingi ito ng tawad dahil sa hindi pagdalo sa kasal niya. There was
frailty in her voice. Parang hirap na hirap ito. That made her nervous.

Agad niyang hiniling sa asawa na dalawin nila ang kaibigan.

_____

She cried hard seeing her lying weakly on the bed.

Ipinakita ni Ashley ang plane ticket nito dapat papuntang Pilipinas noong kasal
niya pero talagang hindi na kinaya ng katawan niya.

Matagal na pala itong may dinaramdam. She has colon cancer. Inamin ng dalaga na
alam na nito noon ang tungkol sa sakit bago inako ang kasalanan niya.

"I wanted to help the only family I got before I die. Para may kabuluhan naman ang
buhay ko." Mahina nitong sambit.

That made her heart churn in pain. Ayaw niyang tingnan ang nanghihinang kaibigan.
Kung puwede lang siyang lumabas ng silid pero ayaw din niyang palagpasin ang
pagkakataong makasama ito sa huling mga sandali ng buhay nito.

"Vea Seychelles is a beauty." Sambit ni Ashley habang titig na titig ito sa anak na
buhat-buhat ni Vance.

He saw how Vance averted his gaze. Alam niyang nasasaktan din ito sa kalagayan

ng kapatid nito.

Binantayan nila ito ng ilang araw sa ospital. Nagtalo pa sila ni Vance noon dahil
hiniling ng kaibigan niya na huwag nang ipaalam sa mga Filan ang kalagayan nito
pero nagpumilit si Vance na ipaalam ito sa mga magulang at kapatid.

That day when the Filans arrived was heartbreaking. All of them tried hard not to
cry infront of Ashley.

"Thank you, Vance." Ashley said softly. She was lying weakly on her bed as she
looks around.
"Ikaw pa rin ang original na bunso ng Filan." Hinang-hina na sambit ng kaibigan
niya.

Wala sa mga Filan ang nagsalita. Tumango lang si Vance at yumuko. She knew he was
controlling his tears.

Tumalikod pa siya para magpunas ng luha.

"I was thinking..." Ashley mumbled. Ibinalik niya ang tingin sa nagsalitang
kaibigan.

"Wala naman yata akong purpose sa mundo." Nanghihina nitong saad. That remark made
her eyes watered some more.

"Dumaan lang yata ako para guluhin ang buhay niyo." Ashley added slowly. Hinawakan
ito ni Lianna sa kamay at nginitian. She could see pity in her eyes. Vaughn is
standing beside her.

"No. You had a big purpose in our lives." Lianna wasn't able to stop herself from
wiping a tear.

"If it wasn't for you. I would have not proven how immense the love I have for my
husband." Lianna uttered with a smile.

"You made our imperfect family stronger."

Lahat sila ay nakamasid lang sa dalawa.

"Gusto ka rin naming maging pamilya." Lianna added sobbing. Niyakap nito ang
nakahigang kaibigan.

Tuluyan na siyang naiyak nang makitang nagpunas

ng luha si Vaughn. Thea's shoulders started shaking.

"I'm sorry, my daughter." He mumbled in tears and went to hug Ashley.

"D-daddy." Ashley mumbled. That made her cry some more. Inakbayan siya ng asawa at
marahang kinabig.

She saw Vanna Lei crying. Her shoulders are also shaking. Napatalikod din sina
Vander at Leandrei na halatang nagpupunas ng luha.

"I was ready to accept you. Pupuntahan kita dapat para pauwiin sa amin." Vanna Lei
said sobbing as she went near Ashley.

Liam went out of the room. Nakita niya itong nagpunas ng luha bago tuluyang
lumabas.

Ashley smiled as tears run down her cheeks. Tuluyan na siyang napahagulgol.
Humigpit naman ang yakap ni Vance sa kanya. He kissed her hair.

"Sorry, iisa lang kasi ang kapatid ko." Nakangiting tugon ng kaibigan nang
makahuma.

"Si Thea," natatawa nitong saad pero halatang-halata ang panghihina sa boses nito.

"Joke lang," bawi nito nang makitang natigilan si Vanna Lei. Nagyakapan ang dalawa.
Lumapit din ang magkakapatid at umupo sa gilid ng kama.

They stayed with Ashley that night. Pero no'ng natulog ito ng gabing iyon hindi na
ito muling gumising pa.

They had her remains cremated as she requested. Gusto ng kabigan na mahimlay sa
mismong puntod ng ina.

_______
Iniabot niya ang urn kina Vaughn at Lianna para ito ang maglagay sa pinasadyang
maliit na nitso sa ibabaw ng puntod ng ina nito.

Isa-isang naglagay ang

magkakapatid ng puting bulaklak sa loob. All of the Filans are there except
Leandrei's wife and Vander's children. It was their decision not to let anyone
know.

"I should've known earlier." Sambit niya nang siya na ang maglalagay ng bulaklak.
Muling naglandas ang luha sa mga pisngi niya

"Ashley wouldn't want you to see you cry that much." Bulong naman ng asawa niya.
Nagpunas siya ng luha. She remembered Ashley telling her not to cry when this time
comes. Pero hindi naman niya mapigilan ang maluha.

Ang hirap pa ring tanggapin. PERO wala din namang magagawa ang pagluha niya.
Hanggang doon lang siguro ang buhay ng kaibigan.

Nagpunas siya ng luha nang tuluyan nang isinara ang nitso pero nanatili siyang
nakatayo sa harap nito. Hindi niya magawang ihakbang ang paa paalis sa lugar.
Matiyaga namang nakaalalay sa kanya ang asawa.

There are things that she wish she could've done to her friend. Sana hindi niya ito
hinayaang mapag-isa. Pero kung gaano siguro siya nasasaktan ngayon, mas nasasaktan
ang mga Filan sa nangyari. They didn't have much time to be with her. Kinukuha pa
lang ng mga ito ang loob sa isiping may madadagdag na kadugo pero pumanaw na ito.
That was Vanna's lamentation a while back.

Nobody knew about Ashley's biological race except her and the Filans. Ni hindi nga
ito alam ng asawa ni Leandrei at ng mga anak ni Vander.

There was a time when her friends asked kung ano ba ang ikinagagalit ni Ashley noon
sa mga Filan pero sinabi lang niyang inakala ng isa na si Vaughn ang dahilan ng
pagkamatay ng ina nito.

It was a secret they kept themselves. At isa iyon sa pinakang

nakakapagpasakit sa damdamin niya. Sana pinilit niya ang kaibigang makisama sa

totoo nitong pamilya. Iniisip niyang darating ang araw makukuha rin nito ang loob
na makisama sa mga Filan.

BUT everything happened so soon. Hindi naman niya inakalang ganoon lang kaigsi ang
buhay nito.

She inhaled deeply as she wiped her cheeks.

Few minutes past before the Filans went off. Naiwan silang mag-asawa sa harap ng
puntod. Nobody's talking. Nakaakbay lang din naman sa kanya ang asawa.

She only nudged when she heard her one-year old daughter crying. Nakatulog ito
kanina sa stroller.

Vance immediately carried Velle in his arms. Tumigil naman ito sa pag-iyak.

"It's time to bid tita Ash, goodbye." Sambit nito sa anak. Bumalik ito sa tabi niya
at marahan siyang hinalikan sa buhok.

Yumakap siya rito at tiningala. There is also sadness in his eyes.

"I was thinking maybe mom's right." He uttered looking at her. He caressed her hair
using his free hand.

"Maybe Ashley's mission was to remind us all that things may still be fixed despite
and inspite of all the aches."

She pursed her lips and didn't speak.

Maybe...
Hanggang doon lang siguro talaga ang misyon ng ibang tao sa mundo.

"Without her maybe mom would've not proven how immense her love for dad is."

Ngumiti ito ng tipid sa kanya pero ang mga mata nito ay naluluha.

"Without her, maybe we'll never know that no matter how much dad loves mom,
nakagagawa pa rin siya ng pagkakamali." Pagtutuloy nito.

Napatango siya.

"And it could also happen to anyone else even to us. It's just up to us if we'll
accept each other despite all the mistakes in the past."

Napangiti siya habang naluluha pa rin sa sinabi ng asawa.

"I know. Kaya mo rin siguro ako tinanggap sa kabila ng lahat. You have your parents
to look up to." Sambit niya kay Vance. Ngumiti naman ito.

"That and many other reasons." He said kissing her forehead. Napangiti pa siya nang
gayahin ni Velle ang ginawa ni Vance. Humalik din ito sa kanya.

That made her smile.

"And those reasons sum up to one," Vance smiled.

"It's because I love you, sweetheart." He said. Yumuko ito at hinalikan siya sa
labi. The kiss lingered for a while. Kung hindi lang naglikot ang buhat-buhat ng
asawa na anak ay baka hindi pa sila natigil.

"I love you, too." She muttered. Niyakap naman siya nito ng mahigpit kasama ng
anak.
She bid Ashley goodbye for the last time before they went off.

It maybe gloomy now but she is sure everything will be alright.

It will be...

Sabi nga ni Vance noong nasa cruise sila, there will always be a promise of a new
day.

And Ashley wherever she is now for sure will always be happy for her...

---THE END---

=================

Author's Note

THANK YOU for making Vance Luanne's story hit 1.75 Million+ Reads before it ended.

SALAMAT sa lahat ng comments. Nababasa ko po lahat pero ganyan talaga ang plot ng
story ni Vance.

This story is ultimately about accepting the past and learning to forgive despite
and inspite of everything.

I hope you learned from it, somehow.

P.S.

Kahit bali-baliktarin niyo po ang ibang Empire Stories wala kayong makikitang hint
na magkakanulo ng story ng bawat isa.

It was made that way.

Kaya huwag po kayong magtatanong bakit wala si ganito sa story ni ganito, bakit
wala si ganito dito, bakit walang nabanggit kay ganito about dito. Kasi walang-wala
talaga akong babanggitin para hindi ma-spoil ang kuwento ng bawat isa.

Darating kasi ang time na mabubuo ang limang stories at 'yong magbabasa puwedeng
unahin ang kung alin sa lima.

So, para kahit ano ang unahing basahin, walang magiging spoiler.

Leave it,

jazlykdat (just like that)