Prologue

“Mahal, sawa na ako. Sawa na akong nakikita na napapalapit ka sa lalaking ‘yon!”
sigaw sa ‘kin ni Carlos. Pakiramdam ko’y matagal niya na iyong kinimkim at ngayon lang siya nagkaroon nang lakas ng loob para sabihin sa akin.

“That’s my dream, Carlos. Hindi ko kayang iwan iyon.”
I replied to him. I’m really hoping that he will understand where I’m coming from.

“Ano bang gusto mong patunayan? Na ikaw yung pinakasikat na model sa buong mundo? Fuck! Ezra, di mo kailangan ng kasikatan para mabuhay!”
he bellowed.

“Carlos, naririnig mo ba yung sinasabi mo? You know how much I worked hard to achieve where I am now.”
I tried my best to lower down my voice to let him know that I don’t want to fight with him.

“I think it’s time for you to stop with modelling. Mahal, ano bang kailangan mo? Bahay? Pera? Pagmamahal? Lahat kaya kong ibigay sa ‘yo.”
I can feel that he’s now trying to calm when he asked me.

“Mahal, hindi naman iyon ang gusto ko. Masaya ako sa pagmo-modelling kaya ito yung trabaho ko. I will retire someday, pero hindi ngayo-”
he cut off my word when he shouted.

“Fuck! Mahal, kailan pa yung ‘someday’ na iyan? After 2 years again? 10 years? o 50 years? Hanggang kailan pa ako maghihintay? Pumili ka ako o iyang career mo?”
he gave me a choice.

Mahal na mahal ko si Carlos pero hindi ko kayang itigil ang pangarap ko. I tried to make him understand pero mukhang naunahan na siya ng selos. Hindi ko alam kung anong pipiliin ko.

I didn’t expect na sa kanya pa manggagaling ang tanong na iyon.

I didn’t expect na papipiliin niya ako between my passion and my love for him.

“You know what? Let’s break up. Baka di talaga tayo para sa isa’t-isa…”
I made up my mind. Mas pinili ko ang pangarap ko kesa sa kanya. Tinutusok ang puso ko nang makita ko ang pag-agos ng luha sa kanyang mga mata. I know he didn’t expect that answer. Alam kong umaasa siya na siya yung piliin ko, pero hindi.

“Fine. Let’s now stop seeing each other.”
he said coldly and left.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-1

Ezra’s Pov

Kagat ko ang aking kuko habang naghihintay akong tawagin sa reception ng isang talent agency sa U.S. Maaga kaming pumunta dito sa Scout Modelling Incorporation located in Miami, Florida. Simula nung grumaduate ako from College ay nag-focus na ako sa Modelling Career ko. Mag-a-audtion ako ngayon sa isang kilalang agency hoping that they will help me achieve my dream.

“Okay ka lang? Gusto mo tubig?”
tanong sa’kin ni Adrian na may bahid na pag-aalala.

”
I’m fine. I’m just a little nervous,”
I honestly answered. I had an experience in front of the camera before pero baby pa ako noon, that was a diaper commercial at sumikat yun sa Pilipinas.

Adrian talked to the crew and ask why it’s taking so long for them to call my name. Halos dalawang oras na kami ditong nakapila at marami rin akong katabing aspiring models from different countries. Adrian is my personal assistant. He was recommended by my mom para samahan ako dito sa U.S mag-audition. Hindi pa man sure na sisikat ako pero nag-suggest na siya agad na maging personal assistant ko. He’s a good looking guy, he’s now 24 years old while, I’m 21.

Napatingin ako sa isang matandang lalaki na dumating. He must be a former citizen here in U.S. He’s wearing a Denim Button Up Shirt, Fitted Black Pants and a Casual Boots. Pumasok siya sa loob ng Conference Room. Nagsimula nang tawagin ang mga kasamahan kong aspiring models na nauna sa’kin sa pila. Ang ilan sa kanila ay lumabas ng Conference Room na masaya habang ang iba ay hindi. Marahil, ay di iyon nakapasa.

“Ezra Gale Carson, please proceed in the Conference Room.”
one of their crews announced.

Nakayukom ang aking kamao habang naglalakad papasok ng Conference Room. Nakita ko si Adrian na kausap ang isang crew and he gave me an assuring smile. Nang makapasok ako sa loob ay nakita ko ang matandang lalaki na nakaupo sa swivel chair. May cameramen at isang makeup artist. Hinila ako ng isang makeup artist papuntang dressing room at sumunod nalang ako.

“You need to change your clothes. You only have 5 minutes!”
the black girl makeup artist exclaimed while giving me a set of clothes.

Pumasok ako sa loob ng fitting room at nagulat ako nang makita ang binigay niya sa aking mga damit. It’s a White Sando Croptop, a Striped Mini Skirt, Long White pair of socks at 3 inches Black Heels. Hinubad ko ang damit ko at sinuot iyon. I have a petite body figure and pale white skin kaya bumagay sa’kin ang damit. My hair is pretty long for a guy so, I tied it in a bun. By looking at myself in the mirror while wearing these clothes, hindi mo aakalain na isa akong lalaki. Well, I’m not straight pero di ako sanay magsuot ng damit pambabae.

“Hey! Are you done? You only have three fuckin’ minutes left!”
sigaw nung makeup artist.

Lumabas ako ng dressing room at lumakad sa harap ng matandang lalaki. I saw how the cameramen licked their lower lips while looking at my legs. I felt shivers all over my body because of the way they look at me.

“Impress me, Ezra Gale Carson.”
the aged man on his late 50’s provoked me.

Tinanggal ko ang pagkakatali ng aking buhok at sinimulang mag-pose sa harap nilang lahat. Behind me is a white sheet background at may isang stool na upuan as a prop. Umupo ako ng tuwid sa upuan dahil, natatakot akong masilipan sa iksi ng skirt na suot ko.

“Open your legs wider,”
the cameraman suggested.

I opened my legs wider just like what he told me. Nakita ko ang pagnanasang tingin nang lahat ng lalaki sa Conference Room kabilang yung matandang lalaki na nakaupo sa swivel chair. I guess he’s the talent manager. Nagulat ako ng magsalita yung matandang lalaki habang kagat ang kanyang ibabang labi.

“Bend over and hold the stool as your support, Ezra.”
he said with a grin on his face.

Hindi ko na nagugustuhan ang mga nangyayari. Mabilis akong tumayo mula sa upuan at akmang lalabas ng Conference Room nang bigla akong hawakan ng cameraman sa palapulsuhan. He’s a black american guy and he’s 6ft tall while, I’m only 5’6 for god sake. Sinubukan kong hilahin ang kamay ko na mariin niyang hawak pero hindi siya bumitaw. I tried to look for the girl makeup artist pero di ko na siya makita sa paligid.

“Where do you think you’re going you filthy asian? We’re not yet done here…”
the black american guy said in a rough voice.

“Let me go please! I’m begging you.”
pagmamakaawa ko. Tumulo na ang luha ko sa sobrang takot.

“Shhhh..don’t cry. You will like my big cock, I promise.”
he said seductively.

Akmang hahalikan niya na ako nang biglang bumukas ang pinto at iniluwal ‘non si Adrian kasama ang ilang pulis. Kaagad akong binitawan ng cameraman at mabilis akong tumakbo palapit kay Adrian para yumakap sa kanya. Nanginginig ang buo kong katawan habang kulong ako ng kanyang mga bisig. Umalis nalang kami sa modelling agency na iyon.

Nang makarating ako sa loob ng hotel room kung saan ako nakacheck-in ay doon lang ako nakahinga nang maluwag. May bagong agency kaming pupuntahan bukas ni Adrian kaya hinabilin niyang matulog ako nang maaga, pero hindi ako dinadalaw ng antok. I’m sipping the glass of my Red Wine habang naka-bathrobe dahil katatapos ko lang maligo. Nakatingin ako sa glass window at pinagmamasdan ang city lights sa baba. My Deluxe Room is located on the 25th Floor kaya parang langgam nalang ang mga tao. Nagulat ako ng marinig ang malalakas na katok mula sa pinto.

I gently put my glass of wine down at the top of the side table malapit sa bed ko at lumakad papunta sa pinto. I checked the peephole of my door to see the person who’s knocking outside. I saw a man who looked drunk because of his flushed face standing outside. He had a cocky face and he looks like a walking red flag so, I’m hesitating to open my door.

But, fuck he looked so hot. Just exactly my cup of tea. In just a few moments, I just found myself opening my door for him.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-2 (SPG)

Warning: This chapter contains mature content. Read at your own risk

.

Pagbukas ko ng pinto ay agad siyang yumakap sa akin. Hindi kaagad ako nakagalaw dahil sa pagkabigla. Pinilit ko siyang itayo nang tuwid at ilayo sa akin pero masyado siyang mabigat. Nainis na ako kaya tinulak ko siya nang malakas dahilan para mahiga siya sa sahig. I tried to wake him up by tapping his wide shoulder.

When he stood up in front of me, my eyes widened. He gave me an intriguing smile after surveying my entire physique. He took my hand in his and pulled me closer to him. I can smell the delicious wine from his warm breath even though we’re only a few inches apart. When I sniff his clothes, I can also detect his lemon scent.

I pressed my lips together and closed my eyes, expecting him to kiss me.
Ganito kasi yung napapanood ko sa mga drama sa Pilipinas. Yung magkakaroon ng one-night stand tapos sila yung magkakatuluyan sa dulo.

Malay niyo siya pala yung destiny ko?

Kanina pa ako nakapikit pero walang labing dumampi sa akin. Minulat ko ang aking mata at nakitang bukas ang pinto. Wala na rin ang lalaki na kanina’y nasa harap ko. Lumabas ako ng room at hinanap ko siya sa hallway pero hindi ko na siya mahagilap. Malungkot kong isinara ang pinto nang pumasok akong muli sa loob. Nagulat ako nang makitang ang lalaki na kanina ko pa hinahanap ay nakahilata na ngayon sa aking kama.

Nilapitan ko siya at pinilit buhatin dahil baka sumuka siya roon. Wala pa namang room service ‘pag midnight. Masyado siyang mabigat kaya hindi ko siya magawang mabuhat kahit anong pilit ko. I decided to search his pants kung may dala ba siyang cellphone o wallet pero wala. Nanlaki ang mata ko nang bigla niyang hawakan ang kamay ko at dalhin iyon gitna ng kanyang mga hita. He’s wearing a jeans pero ramdam kong malaki ang nasa loob no’n.

Kaagad kong inalis ang kamay ko mula sa pagkakawak niya nang bigla siyang umupo para tingnan ako. I noticed him smirking as he observed my attire. I suddenly realized I’m simply dressed in a bathrobe. Akmang papasok dapat ako ng bathroom pero tumigil ako nung marinig ang kanyang baritong boses.

“What’s your name?”
he asked, smiling.
“You look like my… future wife.”

He is without a doubt a womanizer.

Futere wife?
Ulol! Never akong mahuhulog sa mga ganyang pambobola. While confronting him, I merely shook my head in astonishment.

“Why do you want to know my name, sir?”
I teased,
“I bet you can’t even remember the woman you fucked last night.”

“How did you know that? Nakita mo ba ako kagabi?”
he inquired, his face lit up with interest. His two sets of dimples were shown when he smiled at me.

Filipino pala siya
. I assumed he was a U.S. resident. He’s dressed casually in a plain button-up shirt, ripped jeans, and Louis Vuitton black shoes. By the way he dressed, he must be extremely wealthy. When he started unbuttoning his shirt, I was a little startled.

“Ang init! Pakilakasan mo naman yung aircon,”
utos niya sa ‘kin.
Ang kapal ng mukha niyang utusan ako sa sarili kong unit!

Wala na akong choice kundi lapitan ang aircon na nasa taas ng side bed. Mataas iyon kaya tumingkayad ako para abutin. Napasigaw ako nung hawakan niya ang aking bewang at hilahin ako sa kanya. He sat down on my bed on purpose, and I’m currently on top of him. He kissed me hard and fast, and I had no choice but to reciprocate to his kisses. He has the flavor of a superb wine that I would like to consume in my lifetime.

I swallowed hard as he hurriedly removed his shirt and jeans. He’s merely dressed in white Tom Ford boxers. A scorpion tattoo on the left side of his stomach caught my eye, and it looks fantastic on him.
Kinuha niya ang glass ng wine ko sa side table at binuhos iyon sa katawan niya.

He bit his bottom lip and said,
“Taste me, my future wife.”

I knelt in front of him and licked his rough chest. When my tongue reached his pinkish nipple, I rolled it. While sampling every inch of him, I can hear his sighs. I touched his firm member piercing my chest with my free hand. When I realized he was incredibly big, I cursed in my head.

“Fuck! Ugh!”
he exclaimed.
“Come on, my cock is waiting for your mouth.”

When I pulled his boxers down, his firm cock hit my face. His massive bulk can leave you swollen for up to a week. I started licking his balls all the way up to the tip of his member.
Nakatingala siya habang ginagawa ko iyon. Hindi na ako nakapagpigil at sinubo ko iyon sa abot ng aking makakaya. He’s gripping my hair and directing it towards his member.
Halos maduwal ako nang bigla niya iyong pinilit ipasok nang buo sa bibig ko.

He forced me into the bed and said,
“You enjoy my cock so much? I’ll give it to you, my wife.”

Because of his force, I heard the bed creak as my body fell on it. Nagawa niya akong padapain sa kama nang walang kahirap-hirap. His big hands grabbed my bathrobe and yanked it off like he couldn’t take it any longer. As he looked at my exposed ass, I rotated my neck and saw the hunger in his eyes. He flashed me a cheeky smile before parting my ass and savoring it with his tongue.

“Mmmhhh…”
pigil kong ungol nang maramdaman ko ang kanyang daliri na dahan-dahang pumapasok doon.

He licks it even more.
“My wife, loosen up a bit; your hole is choking my finger.”

“Ugh! S-stop it, sir. I’m going to die,”
I murmured, tensely clutching the bedsheet.

Tumawa siya nang mahina bago ipasok ang isa pa niyang daliri.
“Why should I stop fucking you with my finger if you seem to enjoy it, my wife?”

Halos tumirik ang mga mata ko nang mas bilisan niya ang paglabas-masok ng kanyang daliri. When his lengthy fingers contacted the sensitive area inside me, I twitched. I kept moaning and howling, but he didn’t stop. He seemed to be enjoying himself, as do I.

He gave me a warning before slapping the cheek of my ass with his lengthy member.
“Fuck, you’re so wet and warm; I guess you’re now ready for me, my wife,”
he said.

“W-wait, I’m not yet– Ahhhh!”

“See, my wife, you’re so ready for me,”
usal niya nang bigla niyang ipasok ang namimintig niyang pagkalalaki sa aking lagusan.

When he heard me sobbing in anguish, he was about to thrust.
Fuck, he’s so big!
His cock seems to reach all the way to my stomach. Tumigil ako sa paghikbi nang patakan niya ng halik ang aking balikat hanggang tumaas iyon sa aking leeg. His menthol breath is intoxicating, especially when paired with the whiskey he must have consumed earlier. As he closed the distance between us, his hunky physique was so warm.

“My wife, I’m sorry if I’m being rough with you. I’m not gentle in bed, but I’ll be careful so you won’t get hurt,”
pangako niya.

Napakalambing ng kanyang boses habang sinasabi iyon na para bang mahal niya ako. Na para bang ako ang kanyang asawa at ito ang unang beses naming pag-iisa.

When I realized he was waiting for me to say something, I let out a heavy sigh.
“All right, just promise me you’ll be gentle.”

”

Ezra, ano bang sinasabi mo? Bakit mo hinayaang maakit ka ng lalaking iyan? Paano nalang yung audition mo bukas?”

  These are the thoughts that have been bothering me.

When he cupped my jaw and forced me to face him from behind, I snapped back to reality. Malalim niya akong hinalikan at nang tumugon ako sa halik ay mas lalo yatang lumaki ang kanyang alaga sa loob ko.

“I’m going to move now, my wife,”
he said, then began grinding his hips and feeling himself inside me.

Ibinaon ko ang aking mukha sa unan upang hindi gumawa ng kahit anong ingay. Ang magaspang niyang kamay ay kumapit sa aking kurbadong bewang habang umuulos ng dahan-
dahan. I barely bitten the cushion as he began to move quickly and effortlessly. It hurt a lot at first, but it went away after a few deep thrusts. My body seems to have adjusted to his length.

He grumbled,
“Shit! So tight, my wife.”

“Sir, please calm down! My bed is… a-about to break.”
kinakabahan kong utos nang umalog ang kama kasabay ng bawat ulos niya.

His raspy voice echoes in the room,
“Then we can continue it on the floor. My wife, I’m coming.”

He has perfect control over me, and I must admit that he is the best fucker I’ve ever had. When he started repeating a string of profanity, I knew he was really getting close. He released his hot load inside of me with three strong thrusts.

Napahiga siya sa tabi ko at tuluyan nang nakatulog. He gave me a hug from behind and it was really wonderful. I heard him start to say something, but he couldn’t finish it before snoring.

Before he went to sleep, he mumbled,
“Tell me your name, my future wi-”

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-3

Tunog ng alarm mula sa aking cellphone ang nagpagising sa akin mula sa pagkakatulog. Nakatakip sa buong katawan ko ang puting bedsheet at wala akong suot na kahit ano. It’s already 8:35 am nung sinilip ko ang wallclock. For sure magagalit sa’kin si Adrian dahil, late na ako sa Agency Appointment ko.

Sinubukan kong tumayo pero ang sakit ng buong katawan ko especially on my lower part. Marahan kong tiningnan ang paligid at wala na yung lalaking dahilan kung bakit masakit ang puwetan ko.

Hindi ko alam kung tatawa ba ako o maiinsulto nang makita ko ang $5,000 cash sa side table ko. I massaged my temple in disbelief. Hindi ko inaasahan na mag-iiwan siya ng pera after what he did to me.

Did he just treat me as one of his whores?

Ako? Si
Ezra Gale Carson
ay ginawa niya lang bayaran and he’s fuckin’ cheap. $5,000/50,350 pesos lang ang halaga ko sa kanya. Kahit siguro bigyan ako ng 1 Million ay hindi ako magpapagalaw sa kung sino lang na lalaki. Well, he’s an exception. I admit, what happened last night was unforgettable. Napangiti nalang ako ng pilit habang inaalala iyon. Tumunog ang doorbell mula sa labas ng room ko. Dali-dali akong naglakad papuntang closet kahit na masakit ang aking likuran para maghanap ng damit.

“Ezra, we’re already late. Hindi ka pa naligo? Tuloy pa ba tayo don sa audition mo?”
sunod-sunod na tanong ni Adrian pagbukas ko ng pinto.

“Pasok ka muna,”
niyaya ko siya papasok sa loob ng unit ko dahil nakakahiya namang paghintayin ko siya sa labas. Although, nasa kabila lang nitong room ko ang unit niya.

Umupo siya sa Black Leather Sofa sa living room at nakita ko ang pagtataka ng kanyang mukha nung mapansing hirap ako maglakad. Tumayo siya nang mabilis at lumapit sa akin. Hinawakan niya ang balikat ko para iharap ako sa kanya.

“Anong nangyare sa ‘yo? Okay ka pa naman kahapon, ah?”
he sounds worried when he ask me.

“N-Nag-practice kasi akong rumampa kagabi… and I overdid it.”
pagsisinungaling ko. I’m really hoping na maniwala siya dahil, baka isumbong niya ako kay Mommy ‘pag nalaman niya ang totoo.

“O-okay, wag mo sanang pagurin ang sarili mo, hindi ka robot, Ezra. You’re a human for god sake.”
he said while scratching his nape.

Pumasok ako ng comfort room para maligo ng mabilis. I chose a comfy style Shirt na oversize, Tan Jeans and a pair of Casual Sneakers. Pag labas ko ng bedroom ay narinig ko ang notification sa phone ko. I checked it and saw a text from Adrian saying that he’ll wait for me on the 1st Floor.

Mga lalaki talaga, bigla nalang nang-iiwan!

A slap on my face shocked me when I open the door of my unit. Kaharap ko ay isang maputing babae, she’s probably at her mid 20’s but her face looks matured to shake your reflexes. She has a curved body and a long black silky hair. She’s wearing a Black Off Shoulder Dress that fits her waist and a 3 inches Black Heels from a known brand.

“Ang kapal ng mukha mong akitin ang boyfriend ko!”
bungad niya sa akin after she slapped me hard on my left cheek.

“Wait? Ako, inakit ko ang boyfriend mo? I never tried to seduce anyone in my whole life!”
I bellowed. She’s suspecting me for something that I didn’t do.

“Ang kapal ng mukha mong magsinungaling. Eh nahuli ko sa CCTV mula sa Operating Room that you tried to seduce him!”
she shouted while trying to prevent her tears from falling.

“Miss, I’m sorry, but what you’re saying isn’t true. You’re talking about that pervert guy last night? Well, he already left after he used me for the sake of his needs”
I can’t believe I’m explaining myself to this poor girl.

“Oh, he left you? I guess he didn’t change after all these years. Pero buti nalang bakla ka, hindi ka naman siguro niya ipapalit sa akin hahaha!”
she gave me a sarcastic laugh.

“Talagang hindi, dahil hindi ko na siya gustong makita. Sayong-sayo na siya. Wala akong balak mang-agaw ng boyfriend ng iba!”
I yelled and left her.

I feel like I’ve been punished. Sobrang sakit ng buong katawan ko. Pababa ako ngayon at nasa loob ng elevator habang pinupunasan ang mga luha ko. I’m hurt physically and emotionally. That guy who fucked me last night has a girlfriend. I guess, I deserved the slap from that girl. Kahit ako naman siguro ang nasa posisyon niya ay gagawin ko iyon sa taong umakit sa boyfriend ko.

But, I didn’t seduce him?

Siya nga ‘tong kumatok sa pinto ng room ko at kusang pumasok sa loob.

He’s also the one who started kissing me when he pulled me on top of him.

Nang makarating ako sa 1st Floor ay nakita ko si Adrian na naghihintay sa lobby. Magkasalubong ang kilay niya habang nakatingin sa akin. He gave me a what-happened-to-you look when he noticed my scrunch face.

”
I’m fine. Halika na, kanina pa tayo late.”
I assured him.

Nauna na akong lumabas ng hotel at sumunod naman siya sa akin. Sumakay kami ng cab papunta sa Moore’s Modelling Corporation. It’s one of the famous modelling agency here in the U.S at marami akong kilalang Filipino Models na sila din ang nagha-handle. Tahimik lang ako sa passenger seat ng cab habang katabi ko si Adrian. He’s not muttering a word and trying to just stay silent until I say something but, I chose not to. Masyado na akong pagod para mag-kwento.

Nang makarating kami sa Moore’s Modelling Corporation ay kaagad na kaming pumasok sa loob. Hindi naman kami hinarang ng security guard dahil may Appointment Slip si Adrian na ipinakita. As usual, maraming iba’t-ibang Models from different race ang nadatnan ko roon. Nasa loob kaming lahat ng Recruitment Room habang naghihintay na tawagin. Alas-8 nang umaga nagsimula ang audition and it will last by 3 pm. It’s already 10 am nung makarating kami dito sa agency at marahil ay breaktime na ng mga staffs and crews.

“Ezra? Is that you?”
isang pamilyar na boses ang tumawag sa pangalan ko.

I turned my face to that girl who called me. I immediately smiled when I saw the girl in front of me. She’s Abigail Moore, a college friend of mine in La Salle. She’s one of my blockmates back then and she has a Filipino-American blood. Based on what I can remember, her Mom is a Filipina while, her Dad is an American. I missed her so bad.

“OMG! Abigail, long time no see!”
I stood up from my seat and gave her a hug.

“I agree. I missed you so much, Ezra. Don’t tell me you’re planning to audition here in our agency?”
she held both of shoulders so she can see my face.

“Yeah, I really want to pursue my career in modelling.”
I honestly told her.

She whispered something on my ear that gave me hope that time.

“I’ll help you, don’t worry!”

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-4

Hindi ako makapaniwala na sasabihin niya iyon sa’kin. She’s also a close friend of mine along with Kyle, Levi and Zein which are my Rainbow Squad. Of course, I’m happy that she offered to help me pero ayaw ko naman na tanggapin ang tulong niya. That would be unfair to the other aspiring models behind me.

“Thank you for the offer, Abigail. I appreciate it so much, but I want to pass this audition because of my skills and effort.”
I honestly told her.

“I knew you will say that. You’re still the Ezra I know.”
she tapped my shoulder while saying it.

Pumasok na siya sa Audition Room pagkatapos batiin ang ilang aspiring models. Way back when I was in College, madalas niya na akong tanungin kung gusto kong mag-audition sa agency ng dad niya. I didn’t know na ang Moore’s Modelling Corporation pala ang tinutukoy niya kaya nagulat ako nang malaman kong dad niya ang Talent Manager na nagha-handle sa mga aspiring models na tini-train ng agency nila.

Maya-maya pa ay tinawag na ang pangalan ko para pumasok sa audition room. Hindi na ako nagulat nang makita kong nakaupo si Abigail sa panel desk katabi ang isang matandang lalaki which I guess is her dad.

“Wow! You look gorgeous.”
pambobola sa ‘kin ng isa sa mga cameraman pagpasok ko sa loob.

“Thank you,”
I said in a flat tone. I tend to feel embarrass kapag may nagco-compliment sa akin.

“I told you Mr. Israel, Ezra’s face can outshine those famous models that we have here!”
Abigail proudly said to the cameraman.

Lumakad ako palapit sa shooting area. Inalalayan naman ako ng mga makeup artists sa loob ng powder room and they put a right amount of makeup on my face. Just a thin layer of foundation, concealer, eyeliner and puffy red lipstick that will suit my face.

I look more mature dahil sa makeup ko. Sinuotan nila ako ng Black Fitted Long Sleeves and Pants, they partnered it with a Black Leather Boots. Mas komportable ako sa suot ko ngayon kesa sa pinasuot sa’kin kahapon. The staffs, makeup artists and cameramen are nice too. Marahil, ay sinabi na ni Abigail na kilala niya ako. I hope they won’t give me special treatment just because I know the daughter of the talent manager.

I did my best to smoothly walk in the runaway despite the pain that I’m feeling from behind. Matagal na akong nagpa-practice kung paano ko ipi-present ang sarili ko in front of the camera kaya mabilis natapos ang audition. The panelists clapped their hands when I finished. I saw the proud smile of Abigail while talking to her dad beside her.

“You did great, Ezra Gale Carson! I badly want to work with you, if you will allow me?”
Abigail’s dad asked me.

“Of course sir! I would love to work here in your agency!”
I happily replied.

Parang nawala yung sakit na naramdaman ko simula kaninang umaga after he said those words. I can’t believe that I’m getting closer to my dream. I bagged different awards when I was still a student pero ito ang pinakamasayang achievement na natanggap ko.

I immediately hugged Adrian paglabas ko ng audition room. Nakapagpalit na rin ako ng damit ko kanina. The talent manager said that he will call me for the contract signing and they offered a free hotel room for both of me and my personal assistant which is Adrian.
Nakasakay kami ngayon ni Adrian sa isang cab para puntahan ang hotel which is provided by Moore’s Modelling Corporation.

“I’m so proud of you, Ezra.”
Adrian sincerely said beside me.

“Thank you for staying with me, Adrian. You’re the best P.A ever!”
I exclaimed at him not minding the driver of the cab who’s looking at us from the rear-view mirror.

Nang makarating kami sa hotel ay hindi ko inasahan na mas malaki ito sa previous hotel kung saan ako naka-check in. The lobby of this hotel is illuminated with a soft and welcoming light. I like colors, lighting, art, and the furnitures that I’m seeing.

The hotel clerk guide me to our room when I said my name. I was shocked when I see the guest room where I will be staying. It’s a luxury room with 1 King Size Bed, it has a 55 inches TV and very cosy ang interior design. White at Peach ang color ng walls. I liked it so much at parang nakaramdam ako ng antok nang maupo ako sa King Size Bed.

Naiwan ako sa loob ng unit ko dahil, sinamahan naman ng hotel clerk si
Adrian sa room niya. I massaged the bridge of my nose nung makaramdam ako ng antok. Humiga na ako nang tuluyan sa bed at nakatulog.

Nagising ako sa tunog ng doorbell galing sa labas ng room ko. Kaagad akong bumangon para tingnan kung sino ang nasa labas. Napangiti ako nang makita ko si Adrian na hawak na ang maleta galing sa hotel kung saan ako naka-check in kagabi. He didn’t smile back to me which I find odd dahil hindi naman siya galit kanina.

Inabot niya ang maleta ko habang nakatingin sa aking mga mata. Hindi ko mabasa ang kanyang iniisip nung mga oras na iyon. Parang nag-uusap ang dalawa aming mga titig at nagulat ako nang bigla siyang lumapit sa mukha ko. We’re just a few inches apart from each other kaya bigla akong lumayo.

“Ezra, do you have a husband?”
he asked me. I can feel that he only wants to hear a ‘no’ from me by the tone of his voice.

“Wala, ano bang pinagsasabi mo?”
tanong ko sa kanya. Hindi ko maintindihan kung ano ang pumasok sa isip niya at tinanong niya iyan. Husband? Eh, jowa nga wala ako, husband pa kaya?

“Anong wala? Eh may lalaki don sa labas ng unit mo at sinabi niyang hinihintay niya daw iyong wife niya?!”
sigaw niya sa akin.

“Bwahahahahahaha!!!”
hindi ko na napigilan ang malakas kong pagtawa nung marinig ko yun sa kanya.

He looked so serious na di mo aakalain na nagjo-joke siya ngayon. Pinunasan ko ang luha galing sa aking mga mata dahil sa sobrang kakatawa. I can’t believe that Adrian can make me laugh like this.

“Ezra, anong nakakatawa? I’m fuckin’ serious here!”
he bellowed.

Napatigil ako sa pagtawa nang sumigaw siya. Mabuti nalang at soundproof ang bawat rooms kaya walang nakarinig sa amin sa hallway. I thought he’s trying to prank me earlier pero mukhang seryoso talaga siya.

Sino naman kaya ang tinutukoy niyang husband ko?

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-5

I’ve been so busy with different workshops and trainings. Pagod na yung katawan ko pero required daw for every trainees to have a slim body figure. Running, cycling, boxing, skipping, zumba classes at gym light workouts ang naging routine ko.

It’s been 2 months and nandito pa din ako sa U.S. I miss my family and Rainbow Squad already. Kung hindi ko lang talaga pangarap ang pagmo-modelling, ay matagal na akong bumalik sa Pilipinas. Laking pasasalamat ko at kasama ko si Adrian and I can also communicate with my family and friends through social media.

It’s already Sunday. Walang training ngayon but, I decided to visit a private gym near the hotel where I’m staying. One of the benefits of being a trainee of Moore’s Modelling Corporation is having a free access to most of the places where we can have our training. Isa na dito ang LA Fitness Club. Ginanahan akong mag-exercise pagpasok ko sa loob dahil, kumpleto ang workout equipments. I’m wearing a Sports Running Pair of Suits. It has a Fitted Tshirt, a Black Leggings at pinatungan ko iyon ng Black Comfy Shorts, and my favorite Nike Air Max to complete my style.

I started to jog on the treadmill nung mapansin ko ang lalaking kanina pa tingin nang tingin sa akin. Kanina ko pa siya napapansing ginagaya yung workout routine ko. Base sa laki nang katawan niya ay hindi na dapat siya gumagaya sakin. He should be doing extreme workout routine unlike me. I’m already sweating and haggard tapos siya fresh pa rin. That’s unfair!

He’s a tall guy, probably around 6ft. tall. He has a nice body figure that’s very evident since he’s only wearing a Blue Sando Shirt, Jagger Pants at White Sneakers.

He must have noticed me looking at him when he gave me wink. I just rolled my eyes and just focus on my workout. Pagkatapos kong mag-workout ay naligo muna ako sa shower room ng gym, nagbihis ng bagong damit at nag-desisyong lumabas.

“Hey! You! The guy with a pretty face!”
I heard a deep voice behind when I was about to leave the gym.

Napalingon ako sa pinanggagalingan ng boses and I saw that guy who’s been pestering me since earlier. He’s now topless, still wearing his Jagger Pants and his shoes. He’s now sweaty but he smells like citrus with a hints of rosemary.

“Are you calling me?”
I asked while, raising one of my brows.

“Yes, who do you think am I calling? You’re the only pretty guy here.”
his perfect white set of teeth showed when he smiled at me.

I admit, kinilig ako don. He’s hot especially when he’s sweaty. Hindi ko maiwasang hindi tumingin sa pawis niyang dibdib at solid niyang abs. Kaagad akong umiwas ng tingin bago magsalita.

“W-what do you want from m-me”
I can’t believe I stutterred by just talking to a man. I mean, a fine-looking man.

“I haven’t shower yet, so can you…wait for me?”
he said, almost a whisper.

Ngayon ko lang nalaman na may marupok pala talaga akong katangian nang tumango ako sa kanya. Nung ma-realize ko ang ginawa ko ay parang gusto kong kumuha ng remote at i-press ang previous button para ibahin ang sagot ko. I just found myself waiting for him in the locker room. Lumabas siya ng shower habang nakatapis ang puting tuwalya sa kanyang bewang. Walang tao sa Locker Room ng mga oras na iyon kaya nagulat ako nang bigla siyang tumayo sa harap ko.

He’s just a few inches away from me. I don’t where should I put my eyes onto. I’m now facing his 6 packs of solid abs. I just notice that he’s reaching for his locker which is located on top behind me.

Pagkakuha niya ng damit ay nagsimula na siyang isuot ang kanyang Red Underwear Brief sa harap ko habang nakatapis ang tuwalya sa bewang niya. Pagkatapos ay tinanggal niya ang tuwalya at isinuot ang kanyang Cargo Shorts at White Plain Tshirt. Marahan niyang pinisil ang aking binti bago kuhain ang White Sneakers sa ilalim ng upuan ko.

I bet that he’s flirting with me. And I can’t believe that I’m allowing him to do it.

“Hi, I’m Brett Fraiser! How should I call you? Or, you want me to call you a

guy with pretty face

forever…”
he sincerely asked.

“Ezra,”
I mumbled.

“Alright, Ezra. So, where are you going after this?”
he asked smoothly with a grin.

“I just wanna stay in my hotel ro-teka ba’t mo ba tinatanong?”
kanina pa nadugo ang ilong ko kaka-English sa kanya.

“Wait, don’t be mad. Gusto lang kitang ihatid.”
he offered.

“So, marunong ka palang mag-tagalog? Di mo man lang sinabi sa’kin, english tuloy ako nang english!”
I stood up in front of him while holding my waist with my both hands.

“Hindi ka naman kasi nagtanong, mukha ka kasing ‘di Filipino.”
now he’s blaming me.

“You know what? Hindi ko alam kung bakit pa kita hinintay dito, pero sana pala hindi nalang. Nakakainis ka!”
I probably sound like a sulky girlfriend. Hindi ko na siya hinayaang magsalita at iniwan siya sa locker room.

Bumalik na ako sa Hotel pagkatapos kong mag-workout. Nang makapasok ako sa unit ko ay nagpahinga muna ako saglit bago nag-browse sa aking social media account. I also chatted with my Rainbow Squad to let them know what happened on my day. Lagi kasi silang nagtatanong kung kumusta na ako. I considered them as my first fanclub kahit di pa ako model noon. They’re the one who motivates me to pursue my dream along with my parents.

GC Name: Rainbow Squad
🌈💅

Me:

How are you ghorls? I just went from the gym and I’m super tirrreeddd:(

@kyle.ateniano:

Hala, magpahinga ka na. Don’t forget to take your vitamins and stay healthy.

@levi_sullivan:

Oo, pahinga rin pag may time or hanap ka na ng boylet mo diyan. Balita ko malalaki daw ang sausages ng mga amerikano? Totoo ba? Hanapan mo naman ako
@ezra.g.carson,
gusto ko yung malaki ah hahahaha!!!

@zein-garcia
:
Bakit kailangan ka pang hanapan ni Ezra sa U.S ng American Sausages? Meron naman kami dito sa ref, ano bang brand ang gusto mo?

@levi_sullivan
:
potq ka
@zein-garcia
hahahahaha!!!

Nawawala talaga ang pagod ko ‘pag kausap sila. I miss them all, my Rainbow Squad.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-6

Pagpasok ko ng Moore’s Modelling Corporation kinabukasan ay agad akong hinila ni Abigail papasok ng Training Room. She looks so excited kaya naging curious ako kung ano ang gusto niyang ipakita sa akin. Napatigil kami sa desk ni Mr. Alvin Moore (
Talent Manager/Dad ni Abigail
).

“We have a new trainee Ezra, and I want you to guide him.”
that sounded as an order not a request from Mr. Moore.

“I’ll be glad to help.”
I said while giving him a forced smile.

Bumukas ang pinto ng Training Room at nanlaki ang mata ko nang makita ko ang isang pamilyar na lalaki na ayaw kong makita. He gave me a smirk when he saw me. Magkasubong ang kilay ko habang nakatingin sa kanya. He’s now wearing a Stripe Yellow Tshirt, Black Ripped Jeans at shiny Oxford Shoes. The smell of his citrus scent perfume filled the entire room.

“Ezra, this is Brett Fraiser. He’s 22 years old. He passed the audition yesterday and he doesn’t have a P.A yet so, I want you to help him with the training and workshops.”
Mr. Moore introduced him.

“Dad, do you think they look good together? I mean, look at them. A hot and a cute guy. I badly want to see them doing photoshoots together!”
Abigail suggested.

“That’s a good idea. We can think about it in the future.”
Mr. Moore agreed while looking at me and Brett.

Simula nun ay magkasama kaming dalawa ni Brett sa mga workshops at training. Hindi maganda ang una naming pagkikita pero, I found out that he’s a nice guy. Magaling din siyang makisama sa mga tao sa paligid niya and that’s one of the attitude a model should have. The more kasi na marami kang kakilala, mas marami ang opportunities at connections mo.

“Faster! Faster! Can we make it today?!”
sigaw ng isang crew habang nakapamewang.

We’re having a rehearsal for a famous clothing brand
Runaway Fashion Show.
It’s just the rehearsal pero kinakabahan na ako agad. Ang mga crew ay tumutulong sa amin sa backstage habang si Mr. Moore ay nakaupo sa tapat ng U-Shaped Stage. Nakakatuwang dito na rin kami sa mismong venue kung saan gaganapin ang Runaway Fashion Show nag-rehearse. Malaki naman ang stage sa Moore’s Modelling Corporation but, Mr. Moore suggested to rehearse here sa main venue.

Isa-isa nang naglakad palabas ng backstage ang ilang models. Nauna ang mga babae at huli ang mga lalaki. Walang pila ang mga bakla kaya sa lalaki ako nakapila. My height is 5’6 ft pero ako ang pinakamaliit sa lahat ng lalaki kaya nasa unahan ako, habang nasa bandang dulo naman si Brett.

“What’s wrong with your walk?! What happened to the things you learned from the workshop?”
sigaw ni Mr. Moore sa isang babaeng model mula sa labas.

“So-sorry, Mr. Moore I will try to do it better…”
naiiyak na sagot ng babae. She’s probably one of the new hired trainees.

“Of course you all should! I feel like I’ve been paying for all of your trainings and workshops for nothing!”
sigaw niya habang hinihilot ang kanyang sintido.

Nang matapos ang mga babaeng models ay hudyat na mga lalaki na ang lalabas mula sa backstage. Kinakabahan ako pero I tried to keep myself calm. This is it. All my efforts from my training and workshops should be worth it. I can’t waste the opportunity that Mr. Moore gave me.

I set my chin slightly down, I tried to look fierce as I can. I started walking professionally with grace while focusing my eyes at the center crowd. I striked my killer pose at the end of my catwalk and feel that I’m the most beautiful human alive.

Napatayo sa upuan si Mr. Moore at binigyan ako ng sunod-sunod na palakpak. He looks so proud of me when he gave me an amazed smile.

“This is what I’m talking about. Look at Ezra, that’s the kind of walk that all of you girls should be doing! Mas babae pang gumalaw si Ezra kesa sa inyo.”
Mr. Moore said to all of the female models.

Nang matapos ang rehearsal ay nakatanggap ako ng papuri sa mga crews at sa ilang models. Adrian gave me tight hug at ipinapakita sakin ang video na nakunan niya kanina habang rumarampa ako.

“Nice walk, Ezra. You did great back there!”
Brett said and he gave me a short kiss on my cheeks.

Hindi ko iyon inasahan kaya napatingin ako sa kanya. Inawat ko kaagad si Adrian nung mapansin ko ang pagyukom ng kanyang kamao. A lot my co-models are looking at our direction. I can see the curiousity of their face so, I just gave them a sweet smile to assure them that we’re okay.

“The fuck Brett, why did you do that?”
 Adrian whispered but there’s a glimpse of anger from the tone of his voice.

“What’s wrong? I’m just proud of Ezra ‘coz he did great.”
Brett replied as if he just did a casual thing.

“I’m also proud too, but I didn’t kiss him?”
sagot naman ni Adrian.

Humarang na ako nang tuluyan sa gitna nilang dalawa para matapos na ang bangayan. Hindi ko siguro kakayaning makita silang mag-suntukan kung magkatataon. They’re both my close friend here in U.S after all.

Araw ng fashion show at maaga kaming pumunta ni Adrian venue. Magkahalong kaba at excitement ang nararamdaman ko. Sa likod kami ng venue dumaan pero hindi nakaalis sa aking paningin ang iba’t-ibang reporters at mga cameramen na naghihintay sa lobby. Bumungad sa akin ang sigaw ni Mr. Moore pagpasok ko sa backstage.

“Sorry Mrs. Mendez, I will try to find a way to save this…”
this is the first time I’m hearing Mr. Moore apologize.

“I can’t believe that the model who suppose to be the highlight of this whole show didn’t show up. What should we do? I fuckin’ paid you for your models to wear my designed clothes!”
Mrs. Mendez exclaimed.

Mrs. Mendez is a known designer of the famous brand of clothes called ”
Zahara
”. She’s the one who asked our agency to represent her clothing designs for this fashion show. And the model who didn’t show up, that’s ‘Abigail’. I can see how disappointed Mr. Moore on that moment especially that this could be a great opportunity for his daughter to be known, but she wasted it.

“Thank god you’re here Ezra! Please save my ass this time. My daughter didn’t show up, so I want you to be the Main Model later.”
he pleaded while holding both of my hands. I can see that he’s about to cry.

Tumango nalang ako dahil naaawa na ako sa kanya. Kaagad niya akong dinala sa Girls Powder Room for the makeup artists to do my makeup. They’re putting a heavy amount of products on my face pero di ko nalang ininda. Nakapasok na ang mga audience sa loob ng venue dahil, rinig ko na ang ingay sa labas ng backstage. Pagkatapos kong maayusan ay pumasok si Mrs. Mendez para iabot ang susuotin kong damit for the highlight of this whole show. Parang gusto ko ng mag-backout nung iabot niya sa akin ang isang Long Maxi Dress with high slit on the right side. She also gave me a long blonde wavy wig and a 5 inches leather black heels.

I can’t believe that I will disguise as a girl for this event!

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-7

Natapos ng rumampa ang lahat ng models at ako na ang susunod. Nangangatog ang mga tuhod ko sa backstage. Inayos ko ang pagkakasuot ng aking wig at nilagay ang hibla ng bangs sa likod ng tenga ko.

”
And for the most awaited part of this event. Let’s all give a round of applause to Ezra Gale Carson who’s wearing our new design of Slim Maxi Long Dress from Zahara!”
sigaw ng host.

I composed myself before going out from the backstage. I allowed my hands at my side and keep it relaxed. May mga businessmen, celebrities, fashion editors, famous models at medias ang kaagad na napalingon sa gawi ko nung magsimula akong rumampa. I can see some of the men looking at my right leg because of the high slit of this long Maxi Dress that I’m wearing. Some are just admiring my face and I appreciate that.

Nang makarating ako sa center stage tumagilid ako ng bahagya para ipakita ang kagandahan ng Maxi Dress and to emphasize the long slit that matches my long white leg. The cameramen starts to flash their cameras and I just look at them seductively.

The whole fashion show lasted for 30 minutes at nagkaroon ng after party sa reception. Bumalik na ako sa backstage and I saw Adrian waiting for me. He turned his face in my direction at bahagyang nagulat ng makita ang suot ko.

“Ezra, ikaw ba talaga iyan? You look so pretty.”
he blushed when I smiled at him.

Nagulat ako nang biglang pumasok ang isang matandang lalaki na may kasamang mga bodyguards sa backstage. He stopped in front of me and gave me his calling card.

Versace

Modelling PH

Charles Steffan Alvarez
099 873 85***

“I’m a Casting Director from the Philippines. I guess you’re an asian right? I want to help you reach your dream in own country.”
he said in a soft voice.

“Thank you, I will think about it Mr. Alvarez.”
I replied and gave him a smile.

Versace Modelling PH is a famous modelling agency in the Philippines. It’s located in Makati at marami rin akong kilalang models na sila ang nag-hahandle at sikat na ngayon. I guess I will consider this offer in the future since nami-miss ko na rin ang family and friends ko.

Still wearing my Maxi Dress, Blonde long wig at 5 inches heels, I went in the reception at binati naman ako ng ilang mga co-models ko. Maraming lumalapit sa aking mga businessmen to offer a drink pero tumatanggi ako. Katabi ko ngayon si Adrian at Brett na kanina pa nakakunot ang nuo kapag may mga lalaking lumalapit sa akin. Sinabihan na nila akong magpalit ng damit pero hinabilin sa akin ni Mrs. Mendez na after na raw ng party for media purposes ako magpalit.

After the party ay pumasok na ako ng restroom para maghilamos dala ang damit ko pamalit. Nagulat ako ng lumabas ang isang lalaki sa cubicle. Nakita ko ang mangha sa kanyang mukha nang makita ako. Oo nga pala, nakasuot pa rin ako ng pambabaeng damit at nasa loob ako ng Men’s Restroom kaya siguro nagtaka siya. I decided to walk out from the restroom pero bigla niyang hinila ang kamay ko palapit sa kanya. I saw his free hand pushing the door of the restroom and lock it as quickly as he can.

“Bitawan mo ako!”
sigaw ko sa kanya. He looked familiar pero di ko matandaan kung saan ko siya nakita. He’s probably around 5’11-6ft tall, he’s a certified hunk, maputi at singkit ang mga mata. He’s wearing a business suit and pants.

“I will let you go if you tell me your name, my future wife.”
he said while touching the back of his head. He must be shy to asked it.

Now I know who he is. Paano ko nga naman makakalimutan ang lalaking dahilan kung bakit masakit ang katawan ko ng ilang araw? He’s also the reason why I get slapped by his girlfriend.

“Ulol! You know what? Ang kapal ng mukha mong tawagin akong future wife after what you did to me!”
I shouted as loud as I can. I don’t care if there are people outside. His presense is enough to make me lose my mind.

“Look, I’m sorry. Hindi ko sinasadyang iwan ka ‘non. But, please believe me if I say na hinanap kita. I’m also waiting outside of your unit every night hoping you’ll come back in my arms again.”
he said and I can’t believe he’s now crying.

I admit that I appreciate his effort if he’s saying the truth but, he has a girlfriend already. Ayoko na ulit masampal sa pangalawang pagkakataon. And of course I didn’t forget how he treated me as a whore. I opened my wallet and gave him $5,000 cash. Iyon din yung mismong pera na iniwan niya sa side table ko bago niya ako iwan noon. I really waited for the day that I will see him again para lang ibalik sa kanya ang perang iniwan niya.

“I’m just giving your money back and don’t look for me again. Hindi na kita gustong makita kahit kailan.”
I said and left him inside of the restroom.

After that fashion show ay dumami ang mga opportunities na dumating sa’kin. I was given the chance to be a cover model sa isang kilalang magazine here in the US. Mas naging busy ako sa iba’t-ibang photoshoots ng mga makeup, skincare at nakakagulat na may mga directors na gusto akong gawing artista. I became a famous fashion model because of my hardwork and dedication. I owe it a lot to my family, Rainbow Squad, kay Adrian at sa buong Moore’s Modelling Corporation. Naging sikat na rin na model si Brett. He’s now a Calvin Klein Underwear Model at na-feature na rin sa Men’s U.S Magazines.

I submitted my resignation letter to Mr. Moore and thank him for the opportunity that he has given me. He gave me a tight hug at nagpaalam na ako sa mga co-models, crews, staffs, kay Abigail at Brett. Sobrang dami kong natutunan sa tagal kong nanatili dito sa Moore’s Modelling Corporation and I will treasure those memories in my whole life.

I’m now going back in the Philippines after staying here in the U.S for two years.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-8

Nang makababa ako ng eroplano, ay bitbit ko ang aking maleta habang naglalakad sa loob ng airport. Kasabay ko si Adrian at may kausap ito sa cellphone. I’m wearing a Chanel Square Sunglasses, Black Fitted Long Sleeves, Maong Pants, and a Fathom Blue Pair of flat shoes. Naka-scarf din ako to slightly cover my face. Nasilaw ako sa flash ng mga cameras nang lumapit sa akin ang ilang reporters.

“Ezra, how do you feel that you’re back in our country after 2 years?”
tanong ng isang reporter na babae habang kinukuhanan kami ng video ng cameraman.

“We heard that you resign from your previous agency, do you consider continuing your modelling career here in the Philippines?”
biglang sabat ng baklang reporter na matinis ang boses.

“I’m sorry, Ezra is not feeling well from the entire trip, so please stop this for now.”
Adrian answered the reporters on my behalf.

Napanatag ang loob ko nung tumigil sila sa pagtatanong pero patuloy pa rin ang pagkuha nila ng mga litrato. Nakasakay na kami ngayon sa isang cab pauwi. Sobrang pagod ako kahit wala naman akong ginawa kundi ang umupo sa loob ng eroplano buong flight. I checked my phone and was shocked when I saw that I’m trending on twitter.

Trending in the Philippines

#EzraIsBack

25k tweets

#WelcomeBackEzra

20k tweets

Nagpop-up ang notification ko sa messenger and saw a bunch of chats from my relatives, schoolmates and my Rainbow Squad. I sent a reply to their chats before I take nap inside of the cab.

“Hey, Ezra, we’re here.”
Adrian whispered trying to wake me up from sleeping.

“Hala OMG! Sorry Adrian!”
natataranta kong sabi dahil kanina pa pala ako nakasandal sa balikat niya.

“No, it’s okay. Let’s go?”
he asked.

Tumango nalang ako at nauna na siyang bumaba ng cab. Siya na ang nagdala ng maleta ko papasok ng apartment namin ng family ko dito sa Makati. Sinabi nang driver ng cab na binayaran na raw ni Adrian ang pamasahe kaya bumaba na rin ako.

“WELCOME BACK EZRA!!!”
sabay-sabay na sigaw nila mom, dad, Kyle, Levi at Zein pagpasok ko ng living room.

I didn’t expect to see my whole squad here, sabi kasi nila sakin sa chat kanina na di sila makakapunta kaya nalungkot ako. Napaiyak ako nang makita ko ang lahat ng mga pictures ko from different photoshoots sa U.S na nakapaskil sa may wall ng living room. May mga stolen pictures ko din nung highschool ako, and all those trips that we visited before I leave the country. I’m sure Levi’s the one who took it before.

Isa-isa nila akong niyakap and told me how proud they are for me. They’re the one who keeps me strong when times get rough and when the things aren’t going the way I want. I’m so lucky to have these amazing people in my life and I will treasure them in this lifetime.

“Tita, binabantayan ko po itong anak niyo para walang lumapit.”
sagot ni Adrian nung tinanong siya ni Mom kung nagkaroon ba ako sa U.S ng boyfriend.

The good thing about my parents is that, they never treated me differently. Only child ako kagaya ni Zein and bata palang ay pansin na ng parents ko na sadya akong mahinhin compared sa mga pinsan kong lalaki. Being the only child and son, alam kong mahirap kila mom at dad na tanggapin na hindi ko madadala ang apelyido ni dad dahil, hindi ko naman sila mabibigyan ng apo.

Kahit anong gawin ko, hindi talaga ako nagkakagusto sa babae. It’s not like I can just take a medicine and I will completely heal from this gay illness.

“Hindi pa ba kayo nagka-developan dun sa U.S?”
Levi directly asked.

Nasamid si Adrian sa iniinom niyang Orange Juice kaya inabutan ko siya ng tissue. I can’t believe Levi will ask that question. Magkaibigan lang naman kami ni Adrian. He’s more like an older brother to me.

“Oo nga anak, mabait na bata itong si Adrian, tsaka 4 years na rin simula nung mag-break kayo ni Felix.”
my Dad suggested.

“Naku dad, wag mo na kaming i-ship nitong si Adrian dahil para na kami niyang magkapatid. ‘Di ba Adrian?”
I turned my face to him while waiting for his answer.

“Bwahahahahahahahaa!!!”
sabay na tawa nina Kyle at Levi.

“Anong nakakatawa hehehe?”
tanong ni Zein habang kinakalabit si Kyle.

“O-opo, parang k-kapatid ko na po itong anak niyo.”
sagot ni Adrian kay Dad.

“Anak, kung magkaka-boyfriend ka ulit sana yung kagaya ni Adrian. Yung susuportahan ka sa pangarap mo.”
my Mom said and gave Adrian a wink.

Tumango nalang ako. I can feel that my parents like Adrian for me. I admit that he’s nice and charming but, I don’t feel the drive. There’s no spark at all.

I stayed at home during the 1st week that I’m back here in the Philippines before I decided to visit the
Versace

Modelling

PH
. Nakasuot lang ako ng casual attire, black cap and a facemask to cover my face. Kaagad akong nagtungo sa front desk pagpasok ko ng lobby.

“Miss, I’m here for Mr. Charles Alvarez.”
I asked the receptionist.

She turned her face to me and I saw how she raised one of her brows.

“Why do you need him?”
she asked in a cold tone.

“Well, I-I’m here to apply as a scout model.”
I don’t like the way she talks pero I need to stay calm and be professional. I’m the one who need them after all.

“Name?”
she got one application form while waiting for me to answer so she can write my name on it.

“E-Ezra Gale Carson…”
I answered.

Her eyes widened from shock when she heard me say my name. I’m still wearing my cap and facemask so she probably didn’t notice.

She flipped the application paper on the back and gave it to me along with the pen she’s holding. She’s now smiling at me.

“OMG Ezra! I’m a fan! Pa-fansign naman ako, please?”
I can’t believe the sudden change of her voice and expression after she knew who’s in front of her. Some of the guests in the lobby are looking at her when she shouted. I just signed the paper as she requested and gave it to her.

I opened the door of the Conference Room on the 5th Floor and saw Mr. Alvarez talking on his phone. He immediately dropped the call when he saw me.

“Wow! Ezra, what brings you here?”
he asked and gave me a short hug.

“I’m here to apply as your Scout Model.”
I happily answered.

“You made the right decision, Versace Modelling PH will help you grow.”
he proudly assured me.

I’m really hoping that I chose the right agency, that’s what I’m pleading for.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-9

Kasama ko si Adrian at ilang mga crews from Versace Modelling PH sa isang kilalang Waterfalls dito sa Laguna. Metro Magazine will feature this Resort and kasama ako sa mga napiling model. I’m wearing a Fitted Long Sleeve Crop Top outfit and a Black Cycling Shorts. It reveals my small curved waist.

The theme is Sizzling Hot Photoshoot under the waterfalls. Basa na ang suot ko nang makarating ako sa ilalim ng falls. Nang magbigay ng cue si Mr. Alvarez ay nagsimula na akong kuhanan ng litrato. Nakatayo lang sa may batuhan si Adrian habang hawak ang puting tuwalya ko. Kanina pa nakakunot ang noo niya na parang hindi nagugustuhan ang kanyang nakikita.

“Bite you lower lip, Ezra. Feel that you’re the sexiest person alive.”
utos ni Mr. Alvarez.

I just did what he told me. I tried to look at the camera like I’m seducing it. I combed my wet short hair up and bite my lower lip.

“Good job! Now give us more daring poses.”
Mr. Alvarez sounds like a proud father when he gave me that compliment.

I turned my back from the camera to show my perfect shape of butt. I tried to lower my body for the camera to capture my pose freely. Kung ano-anong pose ang ginawa ko at kulang nalang ay lumipad ako bago kami natapos. Binalot kaagad ni Adrian ang basa kong katawan pagdating ko sa pampang.

“O-okay ka lang?”
tanong niya sa akin.

“Yeah, I’m okay. Ikaw, okay ka lang? Namumula kasi iyong mukha mo..”
I asked him the same question. I noticed that he stopped looking at me when I did my last poses earlier.

He licked his lower lip and touch his nape and said
“Oo naman, okay na okay ako. Ang galing mo kanina!”

Naghihintay kami ni Adrian sa isang tent na pauwiin na kami ni Mr. Alvarez nang biglang tumunog ang phone ko. I immediately got it from my travel bag and saw the name of Kyle who’s calling me.

”
Hello Ezra! Oo pupunta na ako dyan. San ka na ba? Ah tawag ako ni Mommy? Sige pupunta na ako dyan!”
mabilis na sabi ni Kyle na di ko masyadong naintindihan.

”
Ghorl, ano bang pinagsasabi mo? Anong pupunta dito? Tsaka di ko kasama si Tita Cynthia.”
I answered. Narinig ko lang yung sinabi niyang “Mommy” kaya nagtaka na ako kung ano ang ibig niyang sabihin.

”
Oh talaga! Need na ako dyan ni Mommy as in now na?! Sige Ezra bye. See you later!”
Kyle exclaimed before he ended the call.

Hindi maganda ang kutob ko kaya sinabi ko kay Adrian na mauuna na ako. Nakapagpalit naman na ako ng damit at tuyo na rin ang buhok ko. Siya nalang daw ang magsasabi kay Mr. Alvarez na meron akong emergency kaya umalis ako agad.

From Laguna to Makati ay 2 hours ang biyahe. I’m driving my Silver Bentley Car na regalo sa akin ni Dad nung nakapagtapos ako ng college.
Pagka-park ko sa labas ng bahay nila Kyle ay dali-dali akong tumakbo palapit sa kanilang pinto at kumatok.

“Oh Ezra, hinahanap mo ba si Kyle?”
tanong ni Tita Cynthia sa akin pagbukas niya ng pinto.

Hindi pa daw nakakauwi si Ezra mula kaninang umaga. Tinatawagan namin siya ni Tita pero di siya sumasagot. Maiiyak na ako sa sobrang kaba dahil kung ano-ano ang pumapasok sa isip ko. Napanatag ako nang marinig ang yapak mula sa living room.

“Ghorl! Bakit ngayon ka lang? Kanina pa ako nandito kasi sabi mo hinahanap ka na ng mommy mo. Sabi ng tita hindi ka naman daw niya hinahanap.”
tumayo ako sa upuan at tinanong siya.

“Nag-apply ako, alam naman ni mommy ‘yon. Sorry, ginabi na ako antagal kasi dumating nung nag-interview.”
mahinhin niyang sagot.

“Naku anak pinag-alala mo ako. Kanina pa nandito itong si Ezra at panay ang sabing tumawag na kami ng pulis at baka napaano ka.”
may bahid na pag-alalang tugon ni Tita Cynthia.

“Ghorl, alam mo bang nanggaling akong Laguna para lang pumunta dito kasi akala ko kung napaano ka? Iba yung sagot mo sa mga tanong ko kanina. Iniwan ko tuloy yung P.A ko.”
I honestly said.

Call me OA and I will never argue kapag friends ko ang pinag-uusapan. Mabuti naman at mukhang ayos si Kyle kaya napanatag ako. I just called Adrian and Mr. Alvarez to apologize for leaving them.

One week ang lumipas na ganoon pa rin ang cycle ng life ko. Hindi naman ako napapagod sa lahat ng photoshoots from luxury brands at tumatanggap na rin ako ng offers from network commercials like skincare, makeup and so on. I’m now seeing my face everywhere. From magazines, tv shows, and billboards. Sobrang saya sa pakiramdam na naaabot ko na ang pangarap ko.

Rainbow Squad will be having an Employment Party for Kyle. Isang linggo na siyang nagta-trabaho sa Rossett’s Holdings Corporation. I feel like a proud mom for Kyle. He stopped studying few years ago due to financial problem yet he’s able to get into a successful company. He’s Kyle after all. He can survive even in a desert.

Papunta kami ngayon sa resort ng family ni Zein. Almost a week na namin itong plinano kaya nakapagpaalam na rin ako sa agency ko to apply for a leave. Babalik din kasi kami by Monday after nitong trip. I’m driving my Silver Bentley Car at kasama ko sina Kyle at Levi papuntang Laguna nang biglang nag-stop yung car ko.

Kaagad na bumaba sina Kyle at Levi para tignan kung anong dahilan ng pag-alboroto ng kotse ko. I checked my gas fuel before I drive here and full tank pa naman ito kanina. I decided to call Adrian since may car din naman siya dahil hindi ako pwedeng mag-commute. Simula nung umusbong ang modelling career ko ay hindi na ako nakalabas muli nang malaya. This is my first trip with my squad after I went back in the Philippines at ayokong ma-delay kami.

“Hello Adrian, I’m sorry to call you in a bad time, pero hihingi sana ako ng favor. Are you busy? We’re here in Laguna-”
hindi ko na natapos ang sasabihin ko nang makita kong bumaba mula sa isang Silver Lexus Car ang lalaking pilit kong kinalimutan after 2 years. I can’t believe that I will see him again here in the Phillipines.

The only guy who made me feel less as a person. The guy who hurt me and dump my pride 2 years ago.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-10

I’m still inside of my car and looking at him from the side mirror. His face still looked the same as he were 2 years ago. He’s wearing a Navy Blue Tshirt, Fitted Jeans and Versace Trigreca Sneakers when he went out from his car. Nagulat ako nang bigla niyang yakapin si Kyle.

A minute has passed when Kyle let go from his hug. I opened the window beside my driving wheel to hear what they’re saying.

“What are you doing here in Laguna? Gusto mo sabay ka na sa ‘kin?”
he offered to Kyle.

“Well, I’m going to one of the Resorts here in Laguna and I’m with my friends.”
sagot ni Kyle and he pointed out my car.

I can see him touching the back of his head. He still had the same mannerism when he’s shy to say something like the guy I met two years ago. I just shook my head in disbelief.

“OMG! Nandito na pala yung magsusundo satin Ezra. Bumaba ka na diyan!”
rinig kong sigaw ni Levi habang nakatingin dun sa lalaki.

“Nasiraan pala kayo ng sasakyan? Kung gusto niyo, ihatid ko nalang kayo sa pupuntahan niyo since dito rin pala sa Laguna yung resort kung saan kayo magce-celebrate.”
that guy said to Kyle.

“Carlos nakakahiya naman, tsaka malapit na din dumating yung susundo sa ‘min.”
Kyle declined.

So, his name is Carlos. Carlos Casannova will fit as his full name. May gusto pa yata siya kay Kyle. I’m not gonna let him hurt my friend just like what he made me feel.

Bumaba na ako ng kotse. I’m wearing a cap and a facemask to cover my face. I looked at the guy named Carlos intently. He looked at me and I can see the shock on his face. I bet he can’t remember me. It’s been 2 years after all.

”
Sir, you heard my friend declined your offer. So, go ahead and drive your car and leave us alone.”
I coldly said to Carlos.

“Ghorl, okay ka lang. Bakit ang moody mo? May buwanang dalaw ka ba? Nag-mamagandang loob na nga yung tao.”
Levi patted my back while saying those words.

“I know. Pero syempre may karapatan din naman tayong tumanggi at dapat lang na respetuhin niya yon.”
magkasalubong na ang aking kilay sa sobrang inis.

20 minutes lang naman kaming nasa loob ng sasakyan ni Carlos pero parang antagal ko na don. Hindi ako mapakali dahil panay ang sulyap niya sa akin mula sa rear-view mirror ng kotse niya. Magkatabi sila ni Kyle sa harap habang dalawa naman kami ni Levi sa likod. Tinulungan niya sila Kyle at Levi na ibaba ang mga gamit mula sa compartment ng kotse niya at syempre di ako nagpatulong sa kanya na kunin ang akin.

“Yes, sir. Magsisimula po yung party ng 1 pm. Dun po kayo sa exclusive pool sa may left side.”
sabi ng babae sa front desk at tinuro yung left pool nang magtanong sa kanya si Carlos.

Mukhang dito rin siya sa resort nila Zein patungo. Kanina pa ako nagtitimpi dahil ayoko talaga siyang makita. At malalaman ko pang dito rin siya mananatili in 2 days dahil birthday daw ng friend niya.

Hinatid kami ni Zein sa Executive Suite ng resort nila. May kanya-kanya kaming bedroom na apat, isang comfort room at malaking living room. Nilagay ko sa closet ang mga gamit ko. Nagpalit na rin ako ng suot. I’m now wearing a pair of Blue Rash Guard Long Sleeve, Short Pants and my Gucci Sunglasses na nabili ko sa U.S. I applied a sunscreen on my arms and legs to protect my skin from the sun. Bawal daw kasi akong magbabad sa araw sabi ni Mr. Alvarez nung magpaalam akong may pool party akong pupuntahan.

I’m not wearing my cap and facemask nung lumabas kaming apat sa Executive Suite kaya di na ako nagtaka nang may mga nagpa-picture sa aking mga staffs and guests sa resort. Isang malaking oval pool ang naka-reverve for the whole Rainbow Squad. Nasa right pool kami habang nasa left pool naman ginaganap ang birrhday celebration ng friend
daw
ni Carlos.

Humiwalay sa amin si Levi kasama yung random guy na dito niya rin nakita. Si Zein ay kausap ang manager ng resort. At si Kyle ay bumili muna ng coffee sa isang stall. Tinanong ko si Zein kung nasaan ang restroom at itinuro naman niya ito sa akin na nasa bandang likod ng resort.

Naghuhugas ako ng kamay sa tapat ng malaking salamin ng restroom nang pumasok si Carlos. Nagmamadali siyang tumakbo sa isang urinal na nasa likod ko para umihi.

“Ughhhhhhh! Shit matagal kong pinigil ‘to!”
he exclaimed while looking down on his thing down there.

Nakatingin lang ako sa reflection niya sa mirror na katapat ko nang humarap siya sa ‘kin. Hinawakan niya ang dalawa kong balikat para iharap sa kanya. Hindi naman ako makatingin dahil wala siyang suot pang-itaas. Tinanggal ko kaagad ang pagkakapit niya sa balikat ko.

“Ano ba?! Talagang sa ‘kin mo pa pinunas yung kamay mo pagkatapos mong ihawak iyan sa k-kung ano!”
sigaw ko sa kanya.

“Hey, relax. Hindi ko naman hinawakan yung ano ko. Nakita mo naman ‘di ba? Zipper lang ng pants yung hinawakan ko. Hindi ko naman ipapahid sa ‘yo itong kamay ko kung marumi.”
pagdadahilan niya.

“You know what? Wala akong pake kung anong mga hinawakan mo, pero wag mo akong hahawakan dahil ‘di tayo close!”
I shouted as loud as I can.

Hindi ko alam kung tadhana ba ito o disgrasya dahil lagi kaming nagkikita at nag-aaway sa restroom. I admit na ako naman talaga ‘tong laging galit sa kanya. He probably can’t remember me anymore. My hair is now shorter than before and I also had an industrial piercing on my left ear.

”
Kaya nga gusto kong makipag-close sa ‘yo. Why do I feel like I did something wrong to you? This my first time seeing as beautiful as you are in this lifetime as I can remember.”
he blurted.

Hindi pa din talaga siya nagbabago. He’s still a man with his sweet words. If I didn’t know him 2 years ago, siguro na-fall na agad ako sa kanya. He’s still charming and I can still smell his lemon scent that made me calm during that unforgettable night.

“I can’t believe you,”
I whispered before I left him there.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-11

It’s already night at bumalik na rin si Levi. Malakas ang tunog ng videoke sa kabilang pool kung saan nagce-celebrate ang kaibigan ni Carlos. In front of us are different liquors. We have Alfonso I, Blended Scotch Whiskey at Rossi Moscato Red Wine. Meron din naman pork barbeques at mga sliced fruits na dala ng staffs nila Zein.

Levi quickly drank three shots in a row. Sa aming apat ay si Levi ang may high tolerance pagdating sa alak. Mahilig kasi siyang pumunta sa mga bars kapag wala siyang work. Sinabayan ko na rin si Levi dahil mahiyain si Kyle while the staffs of resort were just looking at Zein.

Nakatalikod ako pero amoy ko ang familiar lemon scent na papalapit sa amin. Hindi na ako nagtaka nang biglang sumulpot si Carlos at yumakap kay Kyle. His hard biceps are showing because he’s only wearing a White Sando Shirt and a Blue Floral Shorts. Umiwas nalang ako ng tingin nung bigla siyang ngumiti sa akin.

”
Do you guys mind if I join your table?”
he asked while looking at me.

“Sure! Why not? Basta ba mag-aambag ka ng $5,000.”
natutuwang sabi ni Levi habang nakatingin sa akin.

I don’t know if alam na ni Levi na si Carlos yung kinuwento ko sa kanya noon. Napansin niya rin siguro na di ako comfortable whenever Carlos is around.

“Para kang timang, Levi!”
sigaw ko sa kanya nang bigla niya akong kinurot sa hita.

Umalis nalang ako ng table para bumalik sa executive room naming apat. Narinig ko na may tumatawag sa pangalan ko pero di ko pinansin. I was about to open the door of our room when someone grabbed my hand. Humarap ako at nakita ko si Carlos na magkasalubong ang kilay.

“Ano bang problema natin, Ezra?”
his voice sounds worried when he ask me.

“K-Kilala mo ako?”
I asked almost a whisper.

“Sino bang di makakakilala sa ‘yo? You’re the topic of this whole country.”
he answered proudly.

I was hoping to hear a different answer…

I thought he finally remembered who I am before I become successful…

I was hoping to hear an apology from him for what happened 2 years ago,

pero wala.

Hindi niya pa rin ako maalala. I’m trying to hold my tears pero hindi ko na kinaya. Napaupo ako at sumandal sa pinto ng room namin. I’m trying to cover my face using both of my hands. Ayokong nakikita akong mahina ng kahit na sino. I wanted to be strong to uplift those people around me especially my family and friends, but I just can’t tonight. Hindi ko pa rin makalimutan yung nangyari two years ago kahit anong pilit ko.

“Hey, what’s wrong? Fuck, I’m sorry. Don’t cry, please?”
he lowered himself to face me. He’s holding my hands that’s covering my face.

“Babe, I’ve been looking for you. Nandito ka lang pala!”
a high pitched voice interrupted the moment.

Tinanggal ko ang aking mga kamay na nakatakip sa aking mukha para tingnan ang pinanggalingan ng boses. Then I saw a familiar face of a girl. She has a shoulder length hair, wearing a Cami Crop-top bodycon shirt and skirt. She immediately smiled when she saw me.

“Oh? Hi Ezra! It’s been a long time, I was told that there’s famous model here, but I never thought that it’s you.”
she said while looking at me.

It’s been two years but I can still remember how she slapped and accused me for seducing her boyfriend. Carlos immediately stood up to face the girl.

“Stop calling me ‘babe’, matagal na tayong tapos!”
sigaw ni Carlos.

“Wag mo sabihing ipagpapalit mo ako diyan? Carlos, it’s been two fuckin’ years pero bakit siya pa rin?”
the girl shouted while pointing at me.

Tumayo na ako sa pagkakaupo para harapin siya. She gave me a death glare and I raised one of my brows. If she slap me again this time, I’ll give her a good fight.

“Anong bang pinagsasabi mo, Valerie?”
naguguluhang tanong ni Carlos.

“The future wife that you’ve been looking for two years is none other than this gay homo!”
she bellowed.

I retreat when she said that. I know I’m gay pero ang ipamukha iyon sa akin ay sobra naman yata?

When I looked at Carlos, I could see the disappointment on his face. He must have thought that the person he fucked that night was a girl. I couldn’t help but cry. I have never felt insulted before.

Kaagad akong tumalikod sa kanila at pumasok sa room namin nina Zein. Doon na ako humagulgol nang sobra-sobra. Bumabalik sa akin ang nangyari nung gabing iyon. The way he called me his “wife” and the sudden change of his face earlier when he found out that his so called “wife” is not a girl.

Parang dinudurog ang puso ko sa sobrang sakit.

The future wife that you’ve been looking for two years is none other than this gay homo!

The future wife that you’ve been looking for two years is none other than this gay homo
!

The future wife that you’ve been looking for two years is none other than this gay homo
!

Iyan ang mga salitang hindi maalis sa utak ko. Bigla akong napatingin sa pintuan nang pumasok sina Levi at Zein. I saw how worried they are while looking at me. Kaagad nila akong nilapitan para yakapin. Mas lalo akong humagulgol nung mahigpit nila akong niyakap.

“Sorry, Ezra. Sana pala hindi ko na pinasunod sa ‘yo si Kuya Carlos.”
Zein whispered.

“Gusto mo basagin ko yung balls ‘non para wala ng mabiktima ulit?”
Levi asked me.

Umiling nalang ako. Knowing Levi, alam kong gagawin niya talaga iyon pero ayoko na ng gulo. Levi is always our squad’s savior. Kahit saan ka pang lupalop ay pupuntahan ka niya kapag kailangan mo ng tulong.

Natapos ang aming trip sa Laguna and nakauwi na rin ako ng bahay namin. It’s already Monday dahil 1 am na ako nakauwi pero gising pa si mom. Adrian helped me with my stuffs at nagpaalam kay Mom bago umuwi.

“Anak, how’s the trip? Did you guys enjoy it?”
Mom enthusiastically asked.

“Okay lang naman, Mom.”
I answered in a flat tone.

“Don’t be sad. I have a news to make you feel happy!”
Mom said and gave me a bright smile.

I raised both of brows to let her know that I’m waiting for her good news.

“I finally found a perfect engineer to build your dream house!”
she proudly exclaimed.

I always had this dream of having a house of my own. I’ve already saved a lot, so I guess it’s time for me to make that dream come true.

 

I wonder who’s this engineer that makes my Mom proud?

He/She must be preeminent.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-12

“Check your posture, Ezra.”
the trainer said while I’m practicing my catwalk.

A famous clothing brand will be having a fashion show on their 10th year anniversary. A lot of modelling agencies will merge together including
Moore’s Modelling Corporation
and
Versace Modelling PH.

Sabay kaming rarampa ni Brett sa center stage as the highlight of the show at ngayon ang first rehearsal namin.

I did what I was told. I confidently walk on the center stage keeping my posture straight and calm. I will be going from right stage while Brett is from the left. We will meet in the center and finish it with a daring pose.

Napakakamot ng ulo ang trainer habang nakatingin kay Brett na katabi ko sa center stage.
“Brett, don’t be so stiff there! Try to hold Ezra. Di yan nangangagat.”

Mabilis akong hinila ni Brett palapit sa kanya. Napahawak ako sa kanyang matigas na dibdib sa sobrang pagkabigla. Akmang aalis ako mula sa pagkakayakap sa kanya nang bigla siyang magsalita.

“I wanna hold you like this as long as I can…”
he whispered while looking at my lips. Nakatingin lang ako sa mga mata niya.

“Great job! Ganyan ang gusto ko! I wanna see you guys as intimate as you can. Make the audience feel that you liked each other. Talagang magwawala ang mga fans niyo sa fashion show, I can’t wait!”
sigaw ng isa pang baklang trainer.

Pumalakpak si Mr. Alvarez at nagsalita
. “Very good Ezra and Brett. Keep up the good work!”

Hinahawakan kaagad ni Adrian ang kamay ko pagbaba ng stage habang masama ang tingin kay Brett na nasa likod ko. Kanina ko pa napapansin ang kanyang pagkabalisa simula ng dumating si Brett for rehearsal.

After 3 hours ay natapos din ang rehearsal kaya sinabi ko kay Adrian na umuwi na kami. Nandito kami sa tapat ng sasakyan niya nang biglang may tumawag sa phone ko. I checked my phone and smiled when I saw that it’s mom calling.

“Mom, the rehearsal is done. Pauwi na ako. I miss you!”
I said using my sweetest voice ever.

”
I miss you too anak, wag ka munang uuwi. I’m actually here with the engineer I told you last time. We’re having a lunch and need kang pumunta dito. As in now na.”
my mom ordered.

I took glance at my wristwatch and saw that it’s 12 pm already. Nagpahatid nalang ako kay Adrian sa location na sinend sa akin ni mom. We parked outside of a famous Italian Restaurant. I looked at Adrian who’s holding the steering wheel of his car.

“Gusto mong pumasok?”
I asked him. Nakakahiya naman kung hindi ko siya alukin after he drove me here.

“Wag na, just eat the right amount of food. See you tomorrow.”
he bid his goodbye while removing my seatbelt.

Pagpasok ko ng restaurant ay napatingin agad sa akin ang mga customers. Nakita ko kaagad si mom na nakaupo sa bandang gitna habang kaharap ang isang lalaki. Nakatalikod ang lalaki nung lumakad ako palapit. Parang gusto ko ng mag-walk out at habulin si Adrian nung makita ko ang lalaking kaharap ni mom.

Inalalayan akong umupo ni mom bago magsalita.
“Anak, this is Engr. Carlos Azaac Rossett from Rossett’s Construction Builders.”

Inilahad ni Carlos ang kamay niya sa akin habang nakangiti.
“Nice to meet you again, Ezra.”

“It’s nice to see you too…”
inabot ko ang kamay niya at ngumiti ng pilit.

Hindi ako makapaniwala na isa pala siyang engineer. Well, he looked so professional while wearing his pair of Navy Blue Suit Long Sleeves and pants. Halos isang minuto na ang nakalipas pero di pa rin niya binibitawan ang kamay ko. Hinigpitan ko lalo ang pagkakapit sa kamay niya pero parang wala lang iyon sa kanya.

“You must be close together. Nagkakilala na ba kayo before?”
tanong ni mom.

Tumingin naman si Carlos sa kanya at doon lang ako nakakuha ng pagkakataon na humiwalay sa kamay niya.

“Yes po tita, magkakilala na po kami ng anak niyo. In fact, nagkita na po kami sa U.S two years ago.”
he answered while looking at me. I can’t believe he said that.

Dumating na ang food na in-order ni mom for the three of us. There are Antipasto Salad, Parmigiana and Spaghetti Marina in front of us.

“For your dream house which is the Country French Style Home. Your mom told me that you want it to have barrel-tile roofs, tall rectangular windows, and a natural stone facade denote the exterior of French Country architecture.”
Carlos explained after we ate our lunch.

“Yes, and I want to receive an updates regarding the building process and the expenses.”
I said while looking at him.

“Where do you want me build it?”
he looked back to me and ask.

“We actually have a free lot in Tagaytay. Tsaka malapit lang iyon sa trabaho mo, anak. You can also visit Engr. Rossett while he’s building it.”
my mom suggested.

Tumango nalang ako. Carlos offered to drive us home and since wala naman akong dalang sasakyan, pumayag nalang ako.

“Carlos, how old are you now?”
tanong ni mom na nasa passenger seat. Katabi ko ngayon si Carlos dahil, sa shotgun seat ako pinaupo ni mom.

“I’m 24, Mrs. Carson..”
bigla siyang tumingin sa akin ”
and

I’m still waiting for my wife.”

“Oh, are you married?”
nag-aalalang tanong ni mom.

He stopped when the stoplight turned red at tumingin kay mom mula sa rear-view mirror.
“Hindi pa po. But, I’m hoping to marry the person that I’ve been searching since two years ago.”

Napatakip si mom ng kanyang bibig sa pagkabigla.
“That person must be very lucky that you have a good mindset. Kaya ikaw anak, you must look for someone who has the same mindset as Engineer Rossett…”

Umiling nalang ako. Kanina ko pa napapansin na gusto niya kaming paglapitin ni Carlos pero ako naman ‘tong umiiwas. It’s been 4 years nung maghiwalay kami ng ex ko at simula non ay di na ako ulit nag-boyfriend.

Hapon na ng makarating ako ng bahay. Naligo muna ako bago nag-check ng social media and I saw some raw pictures of me and Brett kaninang rehearsal na naka-upload sa twitter. I was scrolling my feeds when I received a random text message.

I’ll make your dream house come true, my wife.

I already knew who sent that message. Hindi ba talaga siya titigil na guluhin ako?

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-13

Maaga kaming pumunta ni Adrian sa main venue para sa final rehearsal bago magsimula ang event. 3 pm magsisimula ang show at 9 am palang ay nandito na ang halos lahat ng models to prepare.

“Alright let’s wrap this up. Good job to all of you. I don’t give chance for mistakes. Do your best later!”
sabi ni Mr. Moore habang pumapalakpak after our rehearsal.

Nasa dressing room na kaming lahat at inaayusan ng mga makeup artists. Magkatabi kami ni Brett ng upuan at kanina pa niya ako kinukulit. Kita ko naman na kinikilig sa amin ang mga nasa loob ng dressing room including the models at makeup artists.

“Hey Ezra, talk to me please. Kanina pa ako nakikipag-usap sa hangin dito.”
malungkot na sabi ni Brett habang nilalaro ang daliri ko.

Tinanggal ko ang kamay ko na kanina niya pang hawak.
“Ang kulit mo kasi, naiingayan na kaming lahat sa’yo.”

Humawak siya sa kanyang dibdib at umaktong nasaktan.
“Ouch! Grabe ka naman. Ayaw mo ba talaga akong kausapin?”

“Kinakausap na kita ngayon. Pero please mamaya mo na ako kulitin, nahihiya na ako.”
pakiusap ko habang nakatingin sa kanya sa vanity mirror.

Spaniard clothing ang theme ng buong fashion show. Nakasuot ang lahat ng mga models nang rennaisance style of clothes. I’m wearing a puffy shouldered white suit and pants. Black naman ang style nung kay Brett dahil kaming dalawa ang highlight ng show.

“You look beautiful, Ezra.”
sabi ni Adrian paglabas ko ng dressing room.

“Thank you,”
I hissed while giving him my brightest smile.

Pwede daw mag-invite ng at least 5 audiences ang bawat model for free. I didn’t hesitate to invite my Rainbow Squad and Mom to watch me on the show. Excited na ako dahil, this is the first time that they will see me in the runaway. Sumilip ako sa venue mula sa backstage at nakita ko na sila na nakaupo sa left side ng center stage. Pansin kung kanina pa sila lumilingon sa paligid para hanapin ako. I couldn’t help but smile.

Kinakausap kami ni Mr. Moore at Mr. Alvarez nang biglang tumunog ang phone ko. I excused myself to answer the call. It’s a call from Carlos.

“Hello?”
bungad kong tanong.

“My wife, where are you? Dala ko na yung contract from my company. I badly need to see you.”
pakiusap niya.

“Nasa sa fashion show ako. I will send you the location, pumunta ka nalang. Ipapaalam kita sa reception para makapasok ka sa venue.”
I answered in a flat tone.

“Alright see you soon. Good luck, my wife-”
hindi ko na siya pinatapos at binaba ko na ang tawag.

Maya-maya pa ay nagsimula na ang fashion show. Sobrang busy nang lahat ng staffs, makeup artists, at designers sa backstage. Nangangatog ang mga tuhod ko sa sobrang kaba. Matagal na akong rumarampa sa runaway pero iba yung pakiramdam na mapapanood ka ng mga mahal mo sa buhay. I will make sure to make them proud.

“Now, for the highlight of this show. We present to you the hottest topic of the whole country, we have Ezra Gale Carson and Brett Fraiser!”
sigaw ng emcee bago kami lumabas ni Brett.

Tumunog ang mabagal na kanta. The lighting of the whole stage turned to red and gold. I came out from the right stage while Brett came from the left. Binigyan niya kaagad ako ng matamis na ngiti pagkakita niya sa akin mula sa backstage. I walked gracefully and we met at the center stage. Nagulat ako ng bigla niya akong halikan sa labi. Kissing me is not part of rehearsal. The trainer advised us to do a daring pose pero hindi kasama ang halikan ako sa plano.

“Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!”
sigaw ng buong crowd.

Kaagad ko siyang naitulak nang bahagya at napatingin sa left side ng center stage. I saw the confusion from my mom and my Rainbow Squad’s faces. Nakakasilaw ang ilang flash ng camera pero hindi nakaalis sa aking mata ang lalaking naka-polo shirt at maong pants na nag-walkout mula sa harap ng stage. That man is Carlos for sure. He’s holding a white folder which is the contract that needs to be signed by me.

Nang matapos ang fashion show ay humingi naman ng tawad si Brett pero huli na ito dahil, hot topic na kami sa lahat ng social media platforms. Ikinatuwa naman ito nina Mr. Moore at Mr. Alvarez na nagha-handle sa aming dalawa ni Brett.

Nagkaroon ng after party sa reception kaya pumunta ako doon after ko magbihis. I immediately decline the reporters who wants to interview me about what happpened earlier. I saw the table of mom and my friends, they gave me a smile nung makita akong palapit.

“Ginulat mo kami, ghorl! Now I know kung bakit kayo ang highlight ng show.”
bungad ni Levi nung makaupo ako sa tabi niya.

Umiinom ako ng juice nang biglang nagsalita si Zein na siyang ikinasamid ko.
“Kayo na ba ni kuya Brett?”

Medyo malakas ang pagkakatanong niya kaya napatingin sa amin ang ilang guests at mga co-models sa katabing table. Umiling nalang ako bilang sagot.

“By the way ghorl, hinahanap ka pala kanina ni Carlos. Hindi ko na siya masyadong nakikita sa Rossett’s Corp dahil mayroon na pala siyang Engineering Company na siya ang nagha-handle.”
Kyle said before eating his food.

“Anak, hindi ba kayo nagkita? Tawagan mo kaya at baka importante ang sadya niya sa’yo…”
sabi ni Mom at tumango naman sina Levi.

Nagpaalam na ako sa table nina Mom at pumunta sa backstage para kuhain ang phone ko. Lumabas ako papuntang lobby at doon ko siya tinawagan. Mga tatlong beses kong sinubukan pero hindi siya sumasagot. I tried it again at sinagot naman niya ito.

“Hello Engr. Rossett, nasaan ka na?”
tanong ko. Maingay ang background mula kay Carlos kaya di ko siya masyadong marinig.

“Naku, lasing na po sa bar namin ang asawa niyo. Puntahan niyo na po siya dito dahil kanina pa po siya umiiyak.”
sabi ng isang lalaki na di pamilyar sa akin ang boses.

Kaagad akong pumunta sa dressing room para kumuha ng hoodie jacket at facemask bago ako sumakay sa kotse ko at nagsimulang mag-drive. Malapit lang ang bar kung nasaan si Carlos kaya nakarating ako agad after 10 minutes.

“Sir, n-nasaan na yung wife ko? Kanina pa ako dito naghihintay. Sabi mo tinawagan niya ako?”
pangungulit ni Carlos sa bartender na lalaki.

“Sir, papunta na po iyon. Hintay lang po kayo

.
” may pag-aalalang sagot ng bartender.

Hindi muna ako lumapit para marinig ko ang usapan nila nang biglang sumigaw si Carlos na siyang ikinabigla ko.
“Hanggang ilang taon pa ba ako maghihintay?! Di pa ba sapat ang two years? Naunahan na yata ako ng mukhang unggoy na Brett na iyon. Bakit di nalang ako? Mas gwapo nama-”
hindi ko na siya pinatapos dahil baka kung ano pang masabi niya.

Lumakad na ako palapit kay Carlos at iniharap siya sa akin.
“Umuwi ka na, Carlos. Ano bang ginagawa mo dito at nagpaka-lasing ka?”

“Ahh… i-ikaw po ba iyong wife nito ni sir?”
tanong ng bartender habang nakatingin sa akin. I’m still wearing my facemask so he can’t see my face.

“Oo pre, siya nga…”
hinawakan niya ang bewang ko palapit sa kanya at niyakap.
“My wife, I missed you!”

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-14 (SPG)

Warning: This chapter contains mature content. Read at your own risk

.

Nakasakay si Carlos sa shotgun seat ng Bentley Silver car ko. Mabuti naman at tahimik lang ito at mukhang nakatulog kaya di niya ako kinakausap. Hindi ko alam kung saan ko siya dadalhin dahil hindi ko naman alam kung saan siya nakatira.

Tinapik ko ang balikat niya after I parked my car sa isang free open lot.
“Hey, Carlos gising!”
sigaw ko sa kanya dahil, hindi ito magigising kung mahina ang pagtawag ko.

Tinanggal niya ang pagka-kabit ng seatbelt ng upuan niya at sinimulang tanggalin ang butones ng kanyang polo shirt habang nakapikit.

Hinampas ko ang braso niya at sumigaw ulit.
“Ca-Carlos, anong ginagawa mo?! Stop it!”

He opened his eyes and look around to check where my voice is coming from. He’s so cute when I saw him pouting his lips. Maputi siya kaya namumula na rin siya lalo na nung makita niya akong nakaupo sa driver’s seat katabi niya.

“Wife, ikaw ba iyan? Di ba ako nananaginip?”
he asked while cupping my face with both of his hands.

Inalis ko naman agad yung kamay niya at galit ko siyang tiningnan.
“Don’t call me your wife again, hindi mo ako asawa!”

“Sorry, mahal. Bakit mo pala ako pinuntahan? Tsaka, bakit di mo k-kasama iyong boyfriend mo?”
his voice sounded so down while asking me. He just lookes at his hands to avoid my gaze.

So, hindi na “wife” ang tawag niya sa akin kundi “mahal.” Ang cringy ng mga naiisip niyang callsigns.

Tinapik ko ang balikat niya when I noticed that he’s in the verge of crying.
“Huy, wag ka na ngang uminom ulit. Kung ano-anong sinasabi mo diyan. Anong boyfriend? Wala akong boyfriend!”

Kaagad na lumiwanag ang expression ng mukha niya after hearing my explanation. He looked at me intently and smiled. Those dimples on the side of his lips are worth dying for.

“So, wala kang boyfriend? Pero bakit-”
in just a snap ay biglang nagbago ang emosyon ng mukha niya. Akma itong lalabas ng sasakyan ko kaya pinigilan ko siya.

“Saan ka pupunta? Nasusuka ka ba?”
nag-aalalang tanong ko.

Hindi na siya lumabas ng sasakyan at binigyan niya ako ng marahas na tingin. Magkasalubong ang kanyang kilay at nakayukom ang kanyang kamao.
“So, hindi mo boyfriend yung Brett na iyon pero nagpahalik ka? Ano ka ba naman, mahal? Why did you let that fuckin’ bastard to just kissed you?!

”

“C’mon, hindi ko rin alam kung bakit niya ‘yon ginawa. I was shocked kaya hindi kaagad ako nakagalaw. Tsaka that’s just a kiss, hindi ko ikakamatay iyon!”
I can’t believe I’m explaining myself to him.

“Hindi ikaw, mahal. Ako! Akala ko katapusan ko na! Akala ko huli na ako. Akala ko nasayang na yung paghihintay ko mahanap ka lang ulit after two years! Mahal, ikaw pa rin eh. Andami ko ng naging babae noon pero ikaw lang yung sineryoso ko ng ganito! Fuck!”
he’s now crying while shouting his feelings for me.

“A-anong sabi mo?”
nagtatakang tanong ko. Hindi pa rin nagsi-sink in sa utak ko yung sinabi niya.

He cupped my face again and look sincerely to my eyes.
“Mahal kita, Ezra. Nagbago ako para sa iyo. I was lost before and can’t find my way out pero dumating ka. I strive hard to become successful before I can marry you. My life has no direction before I met you, pero binago mo ako.”

Naiiyak na rin ako nung makita ko siyang lumuluha sa harap ko. Gamit ang aking kamay ay pinunasan ko ang pisngi niya.
“I’m sorry to disappoint you. Hinanap mo pa iyong wife mo for two years tapos ako lang pala yung aabutan mo? Akala mo siguro babae ako that night hahaha!”

Tumatawa lang ako pero durog na durog na ang puso ko. Hindi ko pa rin makalimutan yung sinabi ng ex niya sakin. At kung paano siya na-disappoint nung nalaman niyang ako yung hinanap niya two years ago.

“The future wife that you’ve been looking for two years is none other than this gay homo.”

“Marami pang ibang babae diyan. Hindi sa kagaya ko. Hindi pa huli ang lahat, Carlos. Baka nalito ka lang kaya akala mo mahal mo ak-”
hindi ko na natapos yung sasabihin ko nang bigla siyang sumigaw.

“Bakit mo ba minamaliit yung sarili mo?! Ikaw nga yung mahal ko, bakit mo ako binibigay sa iba? Wala akong pakealam kung anong kasarian mo, Ezra. Gusto kong malaman mo na, unang kita ko palang sa’yo two years ago alam kong ikaw lang yung mamahalin ko.”
he confessed.

Hearing those words from him, parang gusto kong tumalon sa sobrang saya. Hindi ko na napigilan ang sarili ko at hinalikan siya sa labi. Alam kong nagulat siya sa ginawa ko kaya hindi siya nakagalaw kaagad. He pulled my nape to deepen the kiss. I can taste the liquor that he drank earlier. Nagulat ako ng bigla niyang kagatin ang ibabang labi ko. I was shocked when he started pushing his tongue inside my mouth.

“Fuck, I wanna taste you so bad.”
he said between our kisses.

Bigla siyang tumayo at hinila ako sa passenger seat ng kotse ko at pinaupo ako sa gitna ng kanyang mga hita. His kisses became more intense and he ravaged my lips like a beast. His hands are guiding my waist down to his member. I can feel his hard shaft even I’m still wearing my pants. From my lips he’s now down to my neck. Tumingala ako to give him more access at bigla niya naman iyong sinunggaban. I know that he’s trying to control himself to not leave a mark on my neck. He’s planting soft kisses and I love the feeling of his warm breath.

Mabilis ang kanyang paggalaw and in just a few moments ay wala na kaming dalawang suot. Nakadapa na ako sa passenger seat habang nakapatong siya sa bandang pwetan ko. He gently put one finger inside my ass making me groan because of the tingling sensation.
“Ugh! Carlos, I want more. I want you inside me.”

He chuckled when heard that. The tip of his member is now making an entrance inside me. I just bite my lower lip to not make any sound but, he’s huge and I feel like I’m being ripped inside.

“Ugh! Shit! Mahal, just tell me if it hurts. I will try to put it in slowly.”
he said before he start to push himself inside as gently as he can.

Hindi pa yata siya nangangalahati ay parang ayoko nang ituloy.
“Ca-Carlos, Ugh! M-Masakit ‘pag dahan-dahan Just quickly push it all inside me in one go.”

“Really? O-Okay, take a deep breath. I’m coming now…”
he let me know before he pushed himself hard and his enormous cock fully entered my ass.
“Ugh fuck! What a tight ass that you have!”

Our moans and groans filled the whole car. My car was tinted so the people outside can’t see us. It’s already night too and the lighting outside was dark. He’s not gentle anymore unlike earlier. He’s moving and thrusting me from behind while holding both of my shoulders for support.

“I’m coming…Fuck! Mahal, I’m coming!”
he warned me.

I  pushed myself to him while he’s thrusting me hard. I’m meeting his every thrusts to enjoy his cock inside me. I can feel that he’s done when he released his warm load inside me.

“I will never let you go again, mahal.”
he promised before kissing my cheeks from behind.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-15

It’s just 9:00 in the morning pero maagang pinatawag ni Mr. Alvarez ang lahat ng model sa kanyang agency. Kanina pa ako humihikab habang nakaupo sa floor mat dahil katatapos lang ng aming yoga training. Kanina pa natapos ang training at hinihintay namin si Mr. Alvarez to start the meeting.

“Matagal pa ba? Kanina pa tayo dito.”
pagrereklamo ni Akisha na bagong trainee.

“Balita ko may good news daw na sasabihin si Mr. Alvarez.”
bulong ni Carla kay Akisha.

A few moment has passed at dumating na si Mr. Alvarez na may dalang white folder. He stopped from walking in front of us and gave us a warm smile. I don’t like the feeling of his smile today. There’s something behind it that makes me feel nervous.

“I’m sorry for the long wait. Good morning to all of you ladies and gentlemen. I know I’ve been saying this a lot but allow me to say this again. I’m super proud to all of you yesterday especially for Ezra. The fashion show was very successful and gained a lot of positive feedbacks.”
Mr. Alvarez announced.

Nagpalakpakan ang mga katabi kong models kaya pumalakpak din ako. Akala ko ay tapos na ang meeting kaya akmang tatayo na ako nang biglang magsalita ulit si Mr. Alvarez.

“Today, we have a new scout model. And for the first time, our agency will be a having our first loveteam and we made that decision, because it was suggested by the whole managament. Let me introduce to all of you, Mr. Brett Fraiser as Ezra’s loveteam starting from now on!”
Mr. Alvarez exclaimed.

Pumasok si Brett sa loob ng training room. He’s wearing a plain white shirt, fitted jeans and his Oxford Leather shoes. Amoy ko ang citrus scent niya mula sa malayo at lumakad sa tabi ni Mr. Alvarez.

Brett gave me a wink before he start speaking.
“Hi, I’m Brett Fraiser from Moore’s Modelling Corporation. I will be one of the models of this agency from now on. Nice to see you again, Ezra!”

Kaagad naghiyawan ang mga katabi kong co-models. Ang iba ay inaasar ako kay Brett at di matago ang kilig para sa aming dalawa. Ngumiti nalang ako ng pilit dahil di ko alam ang sasabihin ko.

“Ezra, I missed you!”
niyakap ako ni Brett nung pumasok siya sa dressing room.

I caressed his back in responce.
“Nagkita lang tayo kahapon, miss mo na ako agad?”

Walang tao sa dressing room. Hindi ko rin kasama si Adrian dahil nag-apply siya ng leave for a week. He didn’t tell me his reason pero mukhang importante kaya pumayag din ako agad.

Bumitaw sa pagkakayakap si Brett at nagulat ako nang bigla niyang ilapit ang mukha niya sa akin. Lumayo naman ako agad dahil sa pagkabigla.

He moved back and pinched his nose trying to calm himself.
“I-I’m sorry, Ezra. Di ko sinasadya. Hindi ko na uulitin.”

Nilapitan ko siya para tapikin ang kanyang balikat.
“Hey, that’s fine. You don’t have to say sorry. Nagulat lang ako.”

“Ewan ko ba. Hindi ko mapigilan yung sarili ko pag nakikita kita. I wanna hold you, hug you or even kiss you. Mahal na ata kita.”
he sincerely confessed.

Hindi ko alam kung ano yung isasagot ko sa kanya. Brett was there with me in the U.S at lagi siyang nandyan para pasayahin ako but, I don’t love him as a man. I can only see him as a friend pero natatakot ako na baka lumayo siya sa’kin kapag i-reject ko siya. Hindi ko na siya tuluyang nasagot nang biglang tumawag si Carlos sa phone ko.

“Hello mahal! Nakalimutan ko palang iabot sayo yung construction contract na ibibigay ko dapat kahapon. Saan kita pwedeng puntahan?”
he sounds excited on the other line.

“Ako nalang pupunta diyan sa company mo, send me the location. Thanks!”
ibinaba ko ang tawag habang nakatingin kay Brett.

“Looks like Adrian isn’t around, gusto mo hatid na kita sa pupuntahan mo?”
Brett offered.

“Hindi na Brett. Dala ko naman yung car ko and uuwi na rin ako pagkatapos.”
I asnwered, sounding guilty.

Tumango nalang siya. Mabilis kong tinahak ang kotse ko at nagsimulang mag-drive. Nakarating naman ako kaagad sa Rossett’s Construction Builders. I’m wearing a scarf to cover my neck and face kaya di naman ako namukhaan ng guard.

“I’m here for Engr. Carlos Azaac Rossett

.
” hinihingal kong sabi sa babaeng nakaupo sa front desk.

“Yes, Mr. Ezra. He’s on the 5th floor. You can use that elevator and his office is located on the left hallway.”
she instructed me.

Pagbukas ko ng pinto ay wala sa loob ng office si Carlos. Very manly ang loob ng kanyang office. Leather and wood furnishings ang mga upuan at ang malaki niyang lamesa. Nakasabit naman ang kanyang Black Suit sa kanyang swivel chair sa tapat ng kanyang laptop. Mukhang kakalabas lang ni Carlos dahil amoy ko pa rin ang lemon scent perfume niya. Hindi na ako nagulat nang may yumakap mula sa likod ko.

“Mahal, bakit di ka tumawag na nakarating ka na pala? Kanina pa ako naghihintay sa lobby hmmm.”
sabi niya habang nakayakap sa bewang ko.

I removed his arms that was holding my waist and turn my face to him.
“Nasaan na yung contract? Iyon yung pinunta ko dit

o

.

”

He covered his mouth na parang di siya makapaniwala sa sinabi ko. Lumakad siya sa table niya at kinuha ang white folder. Mabilis ko naman yung nakuha sa kanya at akmang aalis nang bigla siyang magsalita.

“Mahal, wala ba akong pag-asa sa’yo? Gusto mo bang tumigil na ako?”
he frankly asked.

His face has a discouraged expression. Nakatingin lang siya sa aking mga mata habang nakasuporta ang kanyang palad sa lamesa. I can feel that he’s waiting for me to disagree on what he asked.

“Ambilis mo namang sumuko. Paano mo ako magiging future wife kung aayaw ka na agad.”
I said and smiled at him.

Mabilis niya akong nilapitan at hinalikan. It was a short but tempting kiss. Hinawakan niya ang dalawa kong kamay at dinala iyon sa pisngi niya. He’s already crying, he must have thought that I will decline him.

How could I decline the man who captured my heart the very first time I saw him two years ago?

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-16

“Ezra, you need to be close with Brett. Bakit lumalayo ka?”
the assistant photographer commanded.

We are having a photoshoot with Yes Magazine staffs. Madalas na kaming pagsamahin ni Brett sa mga shoots simula nung naganap ang fashion show. Mas dumami ang mga offers na natanggap ko at ng buong
Versace Modelling PH
after that successful event.

Brett have nothing on top and only wearing his fitted boxer shorts. He’s sitting on a storage box chair while holding my waist. I’m standing close in front of him while my hands are on his bare shoulders. I’m only wearing a knitted sleeveless shirt and a black fitted shorts.

Mr. Alvarez growled.
“Why do guys look stiff?! You already kissed on that show, bakit naiilang pa rin kayo sa isa’t-isa?”

Brett chuckled.
“Sorry sir, let’s try it again. Ezra and I will do our best!”

Tumango nalang si Mr. Alvarez bilang pagsang-ayon. Mas lalong hinigpitan ni Brett ang pagkapit sa bewang ko. His face is now on my chest at ang braso ko ay nakayakap sa kanyang leeg.

Mr. Alvarez clapped his hands.

“Good job! Give us more intense poses this time. We all want to see the burning sensation between the two of you.”

Brett wrapped both of my legs on his waist. Nakaluhod na ako ngayon sa upuan niya while he’s holding both of my legs to prevent me from falling. Mas nag-init ang mga sumunod na poses nang bigla siyang tumayo habang hawak ang mga hita ko. Nakayakap na ang binti ko sa bewang niya. And I can feel his hard bulge poking my ass.

Napahawak sa kanyang mukha ang assistant photographer sa sobrang gulat.
“This is gonna be a hit for sure!”

Mr. Alvarez shook his head.
“Alright I think that’s good enough. Baka hindi namin kayanin ang mga susunod pang poses.”

Ilang minuto na ang nakalipas ng sabihin ni Mr. Alvarez na tapos na ang shoot pero ayaw pa rin bitawan ni Brett ang pagkakapit sa hita ko. Nakatayo pa rin siya habang nakapulupot ang binti ko sa bewang niya.

I sighed.
“Hey, baka gusto mo na akong ibaba? Kanina pa tapos ang shoot.”

He was panting while looking at the crews who are busy getting their stuffs.
“Hindi pwede! My thing is…hard. Nakakahiya sa mga tao.”

I rolled my eyes. ”
Kaya nga ibaba mo ako so I can pick up your pants.”

“O-okay”
he’s now trying to lose his grip on my legs at nang makababa ako ng tuluyan ay bigla niyang tinakpan ang mata ko.
“Wag mo tanggalin yung kamay ko. Ako na yung kukuha ng pants ko.”

He’s still covering my eyes using his left hand. I noticed that he’s having a hard time wearing his pants so I removed his hand from my eyes.

I still keep my eyes closed.
“Don’t worry hindi ako titingin. You know what? You don’t have to shy, you must be proud-”

“I’m done. You can now open your eyes.”
pagputol niya sa sinasabi ko. I sighed in relief nung nakasuot na siya ng pants but, he’s still topless.

We saw the shots earlier and it turned out great. The concept is for me and Brett to act like a hot couple, and looks like we did justice to the theme of this shoot.

Sinabi ko kay Carlos na nag-apply ng leave si Adrian kaya siya ang laging naghahatid sa akin pauwi ng bahay after my shoots. Nagsimula na rin niyang gawin ang dream house ko. He said that it will take a year for it to be finished.

“Mahal, when is your restday?”
he asked while driving his car.

Nakaupo ako sa shotgun seat at tinitingnan siyang mag-drive. It’s already 7 pm nung matapos ang shoot at isang oras siyang naghintay kanina sa lobby dahil 6 pm lagi ang uwi ko.

“Every Saturday, why?”
I curiously asked him.

“I want to ask you out for a date?”
he stopped when the traffic light turned red.

Pagkatapos nang pag-uusap namin ni Carlos sa office niya ay nagsimula na siyang manligaw sa akin. I appreciate all of his efforts na sunduin ako sa bahay at ihatid ako sa agency. He’s always sending me random cheesy jokes kapag di siya busy sa trabaho. Ganoon ang naging set-up namin for the past few days. Wala kaming panahon na gumala dahil sa sobrang tambak na trabaho. Kaya nung niyaya niya akong mag-date sa rest day ko, ay pumayag ako agad.

Naging busy ako ilang araw bago ang date namin. Naging abala ako sa trainings, workout sessions at nagkaroon kami ni Brett ng commercial sa isang skincare brand. Naging hot topic ang Yes Magazine after ma-release ang hard copies nung shoot namin ni Brett. Mas dumami ang sumuporta sa loveteam namin kaya tuwang-tuwa si Mr. Alvarez.

Carlos snapped his fingers in front of my face.
“Mahal, kanina ka pa tulala. Okay ka lang? Gusto mo bang umuwi nalang tayo?”
sunod-sunod niyang tanong.

I looked at his eyes.
“I’m sorry, Carlos. Ang dami ko lang iniisip.”

He nodded. Inabot niya ang scarf at sunglasses mula sa passenger seat at isinuot iyon sa akin. He gave me sweet smile before he went out from the driver’s seat at binuksan ang pinto para sa akin mula sa shotgun seat. Tanghali na ng makarating kami sa Picnic Grove in Tagaytay.

Pinaupo niya ako sa isang picnic hut at kinuha ang picnic baskets mula sa compartment ng kotse niya. Umupo siya sa harap ko at isa-isang nilabas ang mga pagkain. Mayroong Chicken Salad Sandwich, Tuna Melt, Fried Chicken Wings at Lemonade Juice.

Wala naman masyadong tao kaya hindi na ako nailang kumain. I noticed that he’s not touching the food at nakahalumbaba habang nakatingin sa akin.

I gulped the food that I’m eating before asking him.
“Hey, hindi ko ‘to mauubos lahat. Ayaw mo bang kumain?”

He sighed.
“Sinasaulo ko lang kung gaano ka kaganda.”

I blushed after hearing him.
“Andami kong pictures sa internet, di mo pa rin saulo yung mukha ko!”
I tsked.

“Mas gusto kong nakikita ka sa personal. Mahal, gusto kong malaman mo na hindi ako magsasawang tingnan ka.”
he confessed.

Umiling nalang ako. Pagkatapos kumain ay nilibot namin ang kabuuan ng picnic grove. Malakas ang hampas ng hangin kaya hindi ako pinagpapawisan kahit may suot akong sunglasses at scarf. Hawak ni Carlos ang kamay ko habang pinagmamasdan namin ang taal lake at volcano mula sa malayo.

“Huwag mo akong bibitawan, Carlos. Hindi talaga kita sasagutin!”
sigaw ko habang sinusuot ni Carlos ang helmet sa ulo ko. We’re going to ride a zip line which is around 250 meters long.

He kissed my left cheek.
“Hindi talaga kita bibitawan. Mawawalan ako ng future wife ‘pag nahulog ka. Balita ko 500 feet ang taas nito-”

Hinampas ko agad siya sa balikat.
“Tatakutin mo pa talaga ako!”

Hawak ni Carlos ang kamay ko nang magsimula ang zip line ride.

“Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!”
sigaw ni Carlos na siyang ikinabigla ko.

Mas humigpit ang pagkakahawak niya sa kamay ko habang mariing nakapikit. Hindi na ako nakaramdam ng takot dahil nakatingin nalang ako sa takot niyang mukha. He’s acting like a baby with a huge built of body.

I’m looking at his face the whole ride and I realized that he’s the man that I want to protect as I can.

I guess… I’m in love with you, Mr. Carlos Azaac Rossett.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-17 (SPG)

Warning: This chapter contains mature content. Read at your own risk

.

“Mahal, bakit tawa ka pa rin ng tawa diyan?!”
Carlos growled while driving his car.

He’s probably pissed off by now since I’ve been laughing at him because of his scared face when we rode the zip line.

Pinunasan ko ang luha ko kakatawa.
“Bwahahahaha! Sorry, s-sige titigil na ako promise.”

I saw him licked his lower lip.
“Paungulin kita diyan ‘pag di ka tumigil.”

Nanlaki ang mata nung sabihin niya iyon. I don’t know if he’s serious because of his playful smile. Tumigil nalang ako sa kakatawa.

Madilim na ang langit ng tumigil ang sasakyan ni Carlos sa isang night restaurant. It’s the Purple Owl in Tagaytay. Inalalayan niya akong bumaba ng sasakyan. Looks like he booked the entire restaurant dahil wala akong makitang customers.

A girl wearing a pencil skirt came in our direction and gave Carlos a hug.
“Long time no see, Carlos! Akala ko hindi ka na pupunta…”

Humiwalay naman kaagad si Carlos at hinawakan ang kamay ko.
“Cassandra, I’m here with Ezra. Ezra, this is Cassandra. She’s my workmate when I was still working with Rossett’s Corporation.”
pagpapakilala niya.

Napatakip naman ng bibig si Cassandra nang makita ako.
“Omg! Ezra, I’m one of your fans. I really ship you with Brett-”

Carlos let out an audible gasp after hearing Cassandra.
“Please don’t ship him with that guy. I’m here with Ezra now. Why don’t you ship us instead?”

“Yeah, you look good together. I’m happy for the both of you.”
Cassandra agreed to Carlos.

Cassandra accomodated us to our seat. She said that Purple Owl was her parent’s restaurant. Kasalukuyan itong nasa Laguna kaya siya muna ang nag-manage for tonight. This place is perfect for a couple date. May mga hanging lights sa mga puno, malamig ang simoy ng hangin at malayo sa polusyon sa siyudad.

We’re having a movie date under the stars. Carlos didn’t let go of my hand since earlier. Nagulat ako nang bigla siyang tumayo at naglakad sa reception. Maya-maya pa ay bumalik siya sa akin at may bitbit na gitara. I couldn’t help but smile.

He sat in front of me.
“Mahal, di ako marunong kumanta kaya wag mo akong tawanan ulit. Gusto ko lang malaman mo na ikaw ang sinisigaw ng puso ko.”

I started tearing up from so much joy when he started singing.
He’s singing Forevermore by Side A.

There are times~

When I just want to look at your face~

With the stars in the night~

There are times~

When I just want to feel your embrace~

In the cold of the night~

Nung oras na iyon, alam ko nang siya na,

Siya na yung taong mamahalin ko habambuhay.

Siya na yung taong gusto kong makita pagmulat ng mga mata ko sa umaga, at bago ako pumikit sa gabi.

I gave him a short kiss after he serenade me. He doesn’t have a pitch perfect voice, but the emotion that he put when he sang the song made me cry from so much joy. We enjoyed our dinner after that.

Carlos booked a room in Hotel Montecillo. Very cosy naman ang loob ng hotel room kung saan kami matutulog. It has a twin size bed that’s good for the both of us. Spacious naman ang loob and I saw a yoga mat kaya naisip kong mag-yoga para mabilis makatulog.

I’m now wearing a fitted longsleeve crop-top and a comfy shorts. Naliligo pa rin si Carlos ng magsimula akong mag-exercise. I spread my knees and let my tummy between my thighs while my forehead is touching the floor.

Nagulat ako nang yumakap sa akin si Carlos mula sa likuran.
“Mahal, are you seducing me?”

Hindi kaagad ako nakagalaw dahil nabigla ako sa tanong niya.
“N-No, why would I do that?”

He’s now hugging me from behind and his warm breath is giving me chills all over my body.
“You’re not seducing me, but I’m already hard for you.”

Tuluyan ko nang tinigil ang ginagawa ko at tumayo sa harap niya.
“Can you see I’m doing yoga exercise? Tsaka bakit naman kita aakiti-”

Hindi niya na ako pinatapos nang bigla siyang tumayo at binigyan ako nang malalim na halik. I can feel that he’s really hard because his hard bulge is now poking my tummy.

Masyadong malalim ang mga halik niya kaya hindi na ako makahinga. I pushed him slightly to catch my breath.

He’s now panting.
“I’m sorry, mahal. I just can’t control mysel-”

I stopped him by lowering myself down to his boxers. I’m really fascinated with his scorpion tattoo on the left side of his abs. I licked his tattoo and pulled down his boxers so I can see his length. I can’t help but feel amazed by the size of his shaft.

He groaned.
“Ugh fuck! Mahal, just suck it please.”

I nodded as response. I licked his balls up to his member’s tip. I kissed it first before I start to open my mouth and savour his fullness. His hands are guiding my head to his shaft. I almost threw up when he started to move his hips for his shaft to fully enter my mouth.

“Ugh! Shit! I badly want to fuck your ass but you have a shoot tomorrow.”

I can’t believe that he’s still thinking about my schedule despite the lust that he’s feeling. I gave him a deepthroat and try my best to taste all of his length. Tuluyan nang bumilis ang mga ulos ni Carlos sa aking bibig. Naiiyak na ako dahil sa pagkabigla pero di ko na iyon ininda. I love his cock inside my mouth. I love the lemon scent from his body especially now that he’s sweating.

He moaned and groaned.
“Ughhh! Ughhh! Mahal, I’m coming! Stop! Stop sucking it! Fuck!”

Hindi ko siya pinakinggan at mas lalo ko pang binilisan ang pagsubo sa kanyang kahabaan. His cock became harder and I can feel that he’s getting near. I’m holding his abs for support while I’m sucking him fastly.
After a few moments, a massive warm load filled inside my mouth. I can’t believe that even his cum tastes lemon so I swallowed it.

He ravaged my mouth. I tried to stop him because I find it gross but, he’s tasting every part of it. His tongue fully entered my mouth and I just suck it as a response.

He chucked after his deep kiss.
“I didn’t know my cum tasted good.”

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-18

“Hey, are you okay?”
tanong sa akin ni Brett habang inaayusan siya ng isang makeup artist.

I sighed.
“Yes, I’m okay. Napagod lang ako kagabi…”
agad na nanlaki ang mata ko pagkatapos kong sabihin iyon.

Brett’s lips parted in awe.
“Bakit ka napagod? Wala naman tayong shoot kahapon ah?”

I bit my lower lip before I speak.
“Nag-yoga kasi ako kagabi kaya wala akong tulog.”

“Ezra, don’t push yourself too hard. Baka lahat ng endorsement na para sa ibang models ay makuha mo na dahil sobrang dedicated mo.”
Fred, which is my personal makeup artist advised me.

Biglang pumasok si Mr. Alvarez sa dressing room para sabihing magsisimula na ang shoot. This photoshoot will promote new designs of clothes ng isang kilalang men’s clothing brand. And as usual, kaming dalawa nanaman ni Brett ang magkasama.

I’m wearing a branded white ripped style shirt na may logo ng clothing brand sa upper left front while, Brett is wearing the black one. We just have our casual jeans and pair of shoes on.

“Brett, just put your hands on Ezra’s waist.”
utos ni Mr. Alvarez.

Nakaharap ako sa camera while, Brett is on my back. Ginawa naman niya ang inutos ni Mr. Alvarez at inilagay ang kanyang mga kamay sa aking bewang. He also put his chin on my left shoulder for support.

Sa dami na naming mga photoshoots ni Brett ay hindi na ako naiilang sa kanya. Madali naman siyang pakisamahan at sobrang sweet and caring lalo na ngayong hindi pa bumabalik si Adrian. Nag-aalala na rin ako kay Adrian dahil hindi niya sinabi sa akin kung saan siya pupunta sa one week leave niya.

Mr. Alvarez clapped his hands.
“I think we’re all good. Thank you for your hardwork.”

Gabi na ng matapos ang photoshoot. Akmang lalabas na ako ng dressing room para magpaalam sa mga staffs na pauwi na nang biglang tumunog ang notification ng phone ko. I saw that it’s from my squad’s group chat kaya agad ko itong binuksan.

GC Name: Rainbow Squad
🌈💅

@levi_sullivan
:
Good evening, Ghorls! Ngayon lang ako nakaramdam ng hiya, pero lalakasan ko na ang loob ko…

Me
:
Ano yun beb
@levi_sullivan
? Go lang! Don’t be shy, kami lang ‘to.

@zein-garcia:

Hala bakit? anong nangyayare???

@levi_sullivan
:
Si Lavinia kasi, yung kapatid ko may sakit. She’s diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

Parang tumigil ang oras nung mabasa ko ang chat ni Levi. Malapit sa buong squad ang kapatid ni Levi na si Lavinia. She’s now a kindergarten student at the age of 5 sa isang private school dito sa Makati. Pinipigilan kong umiyak para patatagin ang loob ni Levi habang nag-uusap kami through video call. Umiiyak na kasi si Kyle while Zein just woke up from his sleep.

“Beb, nasaan kang hospital? Sabihin mo dahil, iiwanan ko na itong photoshoot na ito!”
I’m on the verge of crying while saying those words.

Seeing the exhausted face of Levi makes me want to comfort him. For sure wala siyang kasama ngayon bukod kay Lavinia. Her mom forced to work in Qatar to pay for their studies. Once a year lang umuwi si Tita Carmen at nagtatagal lang siya ng one week at babalik din agad sa Qatar.

Levi is such a strong person. Sa aming apat siya yung pinakamalakas ang loob. We’ve been friends since highschool but we never see him cry.
I felt envious to him before but being a friend of Levi for such a long time, I realized that the reason why he didn’t show us his soft side is because he needs to be strong for his family.

“Wag niyo na akong puntahan. Baka di ko pa mabantayan ang kapatid ko at umiyak nalang ‘pag makita ko kayo.”
Levi advised us.

Kyle tried to calm himself before speaking.
“Send us your bank account details, Levi. Tutulungan ka namin.”

Zein tried to compose himself from the sudden shock.
“Laban lang, Levi. Nandito kami para sayo.”

Mabuti nalang at sinundo ako ni Carlos dahil ang daming tumatakbo sa utak ko. Gusto kong puntahan si Levi pero di naman niya sinabi kung nasaang ospital naka-confine si Lavinia.

Carlos hold my hand while driving his car. His left arm is maneuvering the steering wheel while his free hand is holding mine.

“Mahal, kanina ka pa tulala. May problema ba?”
he broke the silence.

I sighed.
“Wala, I’m just tired.”

Nabigla ako nang ihinto niya ang sasakyan a few blocks away from my house. Mabilis niyang tinanggal ang seatbelt na nakasuot sa kanya at bigla akong niyakap.

“You can cry if you want. I can be your crying shoulder.”

Doon na ako tuluyang humagulgol. I was panting heavily while crying my heart out. Umiyak ako nang malala habang nakasandal ang ulo ko sa balikat niya. He’s trying to calm me down by caressing my back.

Pagkatapos kong umiyak ay pinunasan niya ang pisngi kong basa ng luha. He gave me a sweet smile and somehow I feel butterflies in my stomach. It’s hard to imagine that a simple smile from him can make my day lighter.

He chuckled.
“Ang gwapo ko ba? Mas gwapo ako pag-side view.”
at nag-side view nga siya.

I just shook my head in disbelief.
“Oo na, gwapo ka na.”

He bit his lower lip forcing himself not to smile.
“Pero mas ga-gwapo ako kung sasagutin mo ako.”

I growled.
“Anong kinalaman nung pagsagot ko sa’yo sa mukha mo?!”

He hold his chin and pretend that he’s thinking.
“Syempre ‘pag sinagot mo ako, mas sasaya ako. Pag masaya ako, mas ga-gwapo ako kasi di na ako malungkot. Pag di na ako malungkot-”

I stopped him before saying all the words from dictionary.
“Alam mo, mas ga-gwapo ka ‘pag ihatid mo na ako sa bahay namin.”

He pout his lips after hearing what I said.
“Ito na nga po, ihahatid ko na po kayo sa bahay niyo. Sana nahihiya po kayo sa gwapo niyong driver na binara niyo.”

He chucked again before he starts to buckle his seatbelt and drive me home.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-19

Nakatayo ako sa labas ng agency building habang naghihintay na tumila ang ulan. Wala akong dalang payong at bukas pa ang balik Adrian kaya mag-isa lang ako. Napahawak ako sa aking dibdib nang may tumapik sa balikat ko.

“Hey Ezra, you want me to drive you home?”
alok sa akin ni Brett.

“Hi-Hindi na Brett. Titigil na rin naman ang ulan maya-maya.”
Sa sobrang lakas nang buhos ng ulan ay alam kong malabo iyong mangyare.

Hinawakan ni Brett ang bewang ko palapit sa kanya nang biglang sumulpot ang isang Lexus Silver Car. Pumarada iyon sa tapat namin. Laking gulat ko nang bumaba si Carlos sa sasakyan at may hawak na payong. Mabilis niyang hinatak ang palapulsuhan ko palapit sa kanya pero mahigpit ang pagkakahawak sa akin ni Brett.

“Take your hands off him!”
Carlos shouted while sending death glares at Brett.

Hindi pa rin binitawan ni Brett ang mahigpit niyang pagkakapit sa palapulsuhan ko.
“Why would I do that? Sino ka ba?!”

Napatingin ako kay Carlos nang mapansin kong hindi siya sumagot sa tanong ni Brett. Unti-unting pinakawalan ni Carlos ang paghawak sa kamay ko. Malungkot niyang iniabot ang hawak niyang payong sa akin at lumakad pabalik sa kanyang sasakyan na di alintana ang ulan.

He’s soaking wet while the rain pours on him. Nakayuko lang siyang naglakad na para bang pinagsakluban ng langit at lupa. Na para bang pasan niya ang mundo.

Parang tinutusok ang puso ko nang makita siyang paalis pero hindi ko siya sinundan. Pagkapasok niya sa kanyang sasakyan ay mabilis niya iyong pinaandar. I’m trying to hold my tears from falling pero hindi ko na kinaya. Napaupo ako at umiyak kasabay nang pagbuhos ng ulan.

Brett caressed my back. He bow down so he can reach me.
“Hey Ezra, why are you crying? Sinaktan ka ba ‘non?”

I grip a scoop of my hair to lessen the pain that I’m feeling.
“Hi-Hindi, Brett. Ako yung nanakit sa kanya.”

Inihatid ako ni Brett sa bahay ko. Hindi na siya pumasok sa loob dahil nahihiya daw siya sa parents ko. Nakita ko si dad at mom na kumakain sa dining room.

“Anak, kumusta ang shooting? Teka mukhang malungkot ka yata, may problema ba anak?”
tanong ni mom pagkatapos kong mag-mano.

I shook my head.
“Wala pong problema. Pagod lang po ako.”

Tinapik naman ni dad ang balikat ko.
“Sige anak, umakyat ka na sa kwarto mo. Sabihan mo lang kami kung gutom ka para dalhan ka namin ng pagkain.”

Nakahiga ako sa aking kama habang nakatingala sa ceiling. Yung pagod ko sa sunod-sunod na shoot, si Levi at ngayon naman ay si Carlos ang siyang iniisip ko. I checked my messages and call logs but there’s no update from Carlos. Kinakabahan na ako sa di ko malamang dahilan.

I was about to call him when he called me instead. Masaya kong sinagot ang tawag pero bigla iyong naglaho ng marinig ko ang masamang balita.

“Hello? Is this Mr. Carlos Azaac Rossett’s wife?”
nag-aalalang tanong ng babae sa kabilang linya.

“Y-Yes?”
I blurted.

“Your husband is now in Romero’s Medical Hospital because of a car accident. We need you-”

Hindi ko na siya pinatapos at binaba ko na ang tawag. Kinuha ko ang susi ng sasakyan ko sa bedside table at mabilis na lumabas ng kwarto. Nakita ko ang pagkagulat sa mukha nina mom at dad nung makita akong nagmamadaling bumaba ng hagdan.

“Anak, gabi na. Saan ka pupunta?”
my mom asked.

“May importante lang po akong pupuntahan. Matulog na po kayo. I love you!”
mabilis kong sabi bago kumaripas ng takbo papuntang sasakyan ko.

Mabilis kong narating ang Romero’s Medical Hospital dahil wala namang traffic. Bumaba ako ng sasakyan at dumiretso sa front desk. Nagtaka ako ng mapansin ko ang lahat ng pasyente at mga nurse na nakatingin sa akin.

Shit! I’m only wearing my Pajama Shirt and Pants. Magulo din ang ayos ng buhok ko nang makita ko ang repleksyon ko sa screen ng phone ko. And I’m only wearing my comfy slippers at home.

I immediately covered my face when some of the patients flashed their phone cameras and took pictures of me. Hindi ako makagalaw dahil napapalibutan na ako ng mga tao. Nasa gitna ako ng hallway at padami nang padami ang mga taong nasa paligid ko.

“OMG si Ezra! Dali pa-picture tayo!”

“Ezra, pwede pa video greet ako?”

“Pa-autograph naman ako, Ezra?”

“EXCUSE ME!”
sigaw ng isang pamilyar na boses.

Napangiti ako nang may bumalot sa aking jacket. Isinuot niya ang hoodie sa ulo ko at niyakap palayo sa mga tao. Marahil ay nagulat ang mga tao sa lakas ng sigaw ni Levi kaya di na sila ulit nagsalita.

Levi removed his jacket from me when we entered a private room.
“Ghorl, sabi ko sa’yo wag mo ako puntahan ‘di ba?”

Kaagad ko siyang niyakap dahil, nag-alala ako sa kanya.
“Kumusta? Nasaan na si…”
tiningnan ko ang kabuuan ng private room at nakita ko si Lavinia na nakahiga sa kama at may dextrose na nakakabit sa kamay.
“Oh god!”

Lumapit ako sa kama kung saan siya nakahiga at mukhang mahimbing ang kanyang tulog. She’s pale and much thinner than the last time I saw her. Nanginginig ang aking mga kamay nung hinawakan ko ang braso niyang may mga pasa. Hindi ko na kinaya at tahimik akong umiyak.

Levi caressed my back.
“Hey, don’t cry. Papangit ka niyan.”

I turned my face to him.
“Paano ako hindi iiyak, Levi? Bata palang si Lavinia. Hindi dapat siya nagkakasakit nang ganito.”

Maya-maya pa ay pumasok ang isang matangkad na doktor na may nakasabit na stethoscope sa kanyang leeg. He looked at me and I can see the shock on his face. I saw his name printed on the upper left part of his lab coat.

Romero, Yadiel K. MD

“Should I…leave?”
tanong ni Doc. Romero.

Umiling ako.
“No, I will leave.”
tumingin ako kay Levi bago magsalita muli.
“May bibisitahin pa akong isang pasyente, babalik nalang ako Levi.”

Hiniram ko muna ang jacket ni Levi bago lumabas ng private room. I left the room not just because I need to find Carlos, but also for their privacy. Those stares from Doc. Romero while looking at Levi is also the same as the way I look at Carlos.

He must be in love with my friend and that’s for sure.

I couldn’t express my gratitude to the nurse who walked me through in Carlos room. Marahan kong pinihit ang doorknob at binuksan ang pinto. Nakasalubong ko ang isang doktor na maraming dugo sa kanyang lab coat.

He looked at me sincerely.
“I’m sorry we tried to save the patient but, we’re not successful.”

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-20

Napahawak ako sa aking bibig nung marinig ko ang sinabi ng doktor. Tinapik niya ang aking balikat bago lumabas ng kwarto ni Carlos. My legs are trembling and I can’t move my feet to walk beside his bed.

I saw his body covered with a white clean sheet. Tanging kamay niya lang ang nakikita ko na nakalabas sa kumot pero alam kong siya iyon. Those veins and the gear bracelet on his wrist is from Carlos. Lumakad ako nang dahan-dahan palapit sa kanya.

Oh god! He’s not breathing
.

His body that is covered with white sheet isn’t moving.

Lumuhod ako kama niya at di alintana ang malamig na sahig. I was panting and on the verge of crying. Hinawakan ko ang malamig niyang kamay at hinalikan iyon.

I’m now crying my heart out.
“Ca-Carlos, please don’t leave me. Hindi ko ka-kayang mag-isa…I-Ikaw nalang yung nagpapasaya sa akin.”

Basa na ang kamay niya ng aking mga luha. I feel so tired. I feel like giving up. I am helpless and depressed. Ang dami ko pang plano sa future na kasama siya.

Tumayo ako at niyakap siya.
“Mahal, please wag mo akong iwan! Maawa ka. S-Sabi mo hindi mo ako susukuan? Mahal, maraming dates pa tayong pupuntahan. Gumising ka na mahal…parang awa mo na!”

Binuksan ko ang kumot na nakatakip sa mukha niya. Alam ko namang siya yung nakahiga sa kama pero nung makita ko ang payapa niyang mukha ay parang mas lalo akong nanghina.

I kissed his lips.

once,

twice,

thrice,

…pero bakit di pa din siya nagigising?

I held his face and try my best to memorize every corner and details of the man who captured my heart. The man whom I want to share my life with. The man who I can call my home when I’m lost.

I kissed him again and bid my farewell.
“Mahal, g-gusto kong malaman mo na sinasagot na kita. Alam kong huli na ako pero tandaan mong hindi na ako ulit magmamahal kung di lang din ikaw.”

Natigil ang pag-iyak ko nang bumukas ang pinto at iniluwal non ang isang lalaking matangkad at moreno ang kutis. He’s the boss of Kyle and the step-brother of Carlos. Mr. Terrence Axel Rossett from Rossett’s Holdings Corporation. His woody scent perfume filled the entire room.

Pinunasan ko ang mga luha sa aking pisngi habang tinitingnan siya. Mukhang kakarating lang niya at galing ng opisina dahil naka-business suit attire pa siya. Lumapit siya sa akin at pinipigilan ang pagtawa.

He covered his mouth and compose himself before muttering his words.
“Why are you crying? He won’t leave you in this world alone.”

Nanlilisik ang aking mga mata at tinitigan siya.
“What are trying to say? He’s gone! Carlos is gone. My love left me already.”
humagulgol na naman ako.

Nagulat ako nang bigla niyang sakalin ang leeg ni Carlos. Agad namang dumilat si Carlos at pilit tinanggal ang mahigpit na paghawak ni Terrence sa leeg niya.

What did just happen?

Did he just prank me?

Oh god, after I said my farewell and confession
!

Umupo si Carlos sa kanyang kama at binigyan ako ng nakakalokong ngiti. Si Terrence naman ay nakamasid lang sa amin ni Carlos. Akmang hahawakan ni Carlos ang kamay ko nang bigla ko siyang sinampal.

I growled. ”
So, you’re not dead?! You’re just playing around after I said all those shits out of me. Wala ka bang puso, Carlos?”

He reached my hand pero iniwas ko iyon.
“Mahal, I’m sorry. Hindi ako patay pero, I’m injured. Hindi ka ba masayang buhay ang taong mamahalin mo at hindi ipagpapalit kahit kanino?”

Nanlaki ang mata ko pagkatapos kong marinig ang mga sinabi niya. I bet he enjoy what he heard earlier.
“Alam mo, napakagago mo!”

Tumalikod ako at akmang lalabas ng kwarto nang biglang sumigaw si Carlos.

“Mahal,wag mo akong iwan…ahh!!”

he groaned in pain.

Napalingon ako sa gawi niya at nakita ko siyang nakahandusay sa sahig. He’s looking at me with his puffy eyes. This man knows how to make me soft for him.

Lumapit sa akin si Terrence at di tinulungan si Carlos tumayo.
“Ikaw na bahala diyan. May business date pa kami ng…friend mo.”
he whispered before leaving us in the room.

Kung hindi ko lang kaibigan si Kyle ay sinampal ko na siguro si Terrence. Napapaisip tuloy ako kung paano niya napakisamahan ang lalaking iyon na napakayabang. Kyle must be blinded by his charm and dominant presence.

“Ugh! Fuck! Mahal, ang sakit-”

Hindi ko na pinatapos ang sasabihin niya at mabilis siyang nilapitan para takpan ang kanyang bibig.
“Wag ka ngang umungol, baka ano sabihin ng ibang pasyente sa kabilang room.”

He licked my hand that’s covering his mouth. Inalis ko kaagad ang kamay ko sa sobrang pagkabigla. He gave me an enticing smile.

“Mahal, di naman ako umuungol. Tsaka di natin gagawin yun dito. Tulungan mo na akong tumayo, please?”
he asked.

I rolled my eyes before helping him to sit on the bed. Maya-maya pa ay bumalik ang doktor na nanloko sa akin kanina. The doctor smiled at me when he entered the room of Carlos.

“Looks like you’re okay now, Mr. Rossett. Your wife right here must be worried.”
The doctor said while biting his lower lip to stop himself from laughing.

I sighed.
“So, this is what you mean by trying your best to save a patient but unsuccessful? Pinaiyak niyo ako!”
I bellowed while pointing at Carlos.

“We tried to save him from falling in love with his wife, pero di daw niya kaya.”
he said while raising both of his brows to Carlos.
“But seriously, the patient is suffering from mild sprain on his right leg. He can go home anytime and please use an ice pack to relieve the swollen area.”

The doctor put an elastic bandage to Carlos right leg for compression. Umalis naman ito agad dahil kailangan pa daw siya ng ibang pasyente. Mabuti naman at lumabas na siya ng room ni Carlos para mabawasan ang stress ko.

Carlos held my hand.
“Mahal, alas-3 na ng umaga. Wag na muna tayo umuwi. Dito ka na sa bed ko matulog.”
he positioned himself at the edge of the bed to give me some space.

Parehas kaming naka-pajamas kaya para rin akong pasyente sa ospital. Humiga ako sa tabi niya habang yakap niya ako para di ako mahulog sa maliit niyang kama.

“I can’t believe that we’re now a couple. Can’t wait to call you my wife after we get married.”
he whispered before he sleep.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-21

“Mahal, anong oras kita susunduin? Miss na kita.”
Carlos said on the other line, trying to sound cute.

I looked at my watch and saw that it’s 6:30 pm already.
“You can pick me up at 7. I miss you too, mahal.”
I whispered before I ended the call.

Naging mas busy ako sa modelling career ko kaya pa-iba-iba na rin ang oras ng aking pag-uwi. Ako nalang ang tumatawag kay Carlos kapag pauwi na ako dahil nahihiya akong paghintayin siya. We’re now 6 months as a couple. Simula nung naging official kami ay hindi na ako nagpapahatid kay Adrian. Carlos and I are secretly dating since it’s written in my contract that I’m prohibited to have a relationship unless it’s with Brett. Mas lalong dumami ang fanclubs naming dalawa ni Brett sa loob ng ilang buwan naming magkasama sa mga photoshoots.

Sinabi ko naman kay Brett ang tungkol kay Carlos kaya naging awkward kami ‘pag magkasama. Siya na rin madalas ang umiiwas sa mga tanong ng mga medias kapag tungkol sa relasyon namin ang pinag-uusapan. Hindi na rin siya clingy at palabiro kagaya dati. We’re rising together pero mas nag-grow siya as a person. He looks much professional and firmed than before.

“Don’t forget to bring extra clothes tomorrow, okay?”
Mr. Alvarez reminded us. Tomorrow is his birthday and the whole
Versace Model PH
staffs and models will celebrate to a private resort in Batangas.

”
Aye, aye, captain!!!”
sabay-sabay naming sigaw.

“Ezra, ano sa tingin mo ang magandang suotin ko bukas para mapansin ako ni Brett?”
pinakita sa akin ni Rhia ang dalawang swimsuit na hawak ng dalawa niyang kamay. The one on her left hand is a pink animal print bikini while, the one on her right is a red geneva mesh top.

I hold my chin while thinking.
“I’ll go with the red one.”

Rhia sighed.
“Kaya lang malabo naman akong pansinin ni Brett. Sayo kasi siya laging nakatingin…”

Kanina pa umalis si Brett dahil may emergency daw kaya hindi niya naabutan ang announcement ni Mr. Alvarez. I wonder if he will join us tomorrow. This birthday celebration of Mr. Alvarez was planned for a long time so he’s expecting all of us to come.

Nang makababa ako sa lobby ay nakita ko ang lalaking pilit akong kinukulit sa loob ng anim na buwan. Hindi ko alam kung patuloy akong maglalakad pero wala na akong choice nang makita niya na ako.

Lumapit siya sa akin at lumuhod. Di alintana ang mga taong nakatingin at mga matang naaawa na sa kanya. Hinawakan niya ang mga kamay ko at umiyak.

“E-Ezra, please…nagmamakaawa ako. Sabihin mo na sa akin kung nasaan si K-Kyle. Hindi ko na kakayanin ang isa pang buwan na lumipas nang di ko siya nakikita.”
Terrence pleaded.

Inalis ko ang kamay niyang nakahawak sa akin.
“Wala kang mapapala sa akin, Terrence. Niloko mo ang kaibigan ko at hindi kita mapapatawad kahit ilang taon ka pang humingi ng tawad.”

Tumayo siya sa harap ko. His face is wet from his tears. His eyes are puffy and I can see the loneliness behind his gaze.
“Mahal na mahal ko siya, Ezra. Maniwala ka. H-Hindi ko siya gustong lokohin. Handa kong ipagpalit ang lahat makita ko lang siya. I promise hindi ko siya guguluhin. I just wanna see him for the very last time. I wanna see my only love. The only person I want to marry. The one whom I can see my future with.”

Napaiyak na rin ako nung sabihin niya iyon. I couldn’t believe that a successful businessman who’s respected by a lot of people is now crying and pleading in front of me.
“Stop crying. Ako na yung nahihiya para sa’yo.”

Terrence immediately wiped his tears and look at my eyes while waiting for my next statement.

“Kyle is in Paris, France. Remember your promise na hindi mo siya guguluhin. Ako na mismo ang magpapabalik sa’yo dito sa Pilipinas kapag pinaiyak mo siya ulit, and that’s an order not a request.”

”
T-Thank you, Ezra. I can guarantee that I won’t bother you and Kyle again after this.”
he whispered before he leave the
Versace Modelling PH
building.

Nakita ko agad ang Lexus Silver car ni Carlos na naka-park sa parking lot paglabas ko. Kaagad akong pumasok sa shotgun seat at hinalikan siya. I always find his kisses my comfort after a tiring day.

“Mahal, saan tayo pupunta?”
tanong ko sa kanya nang mapansing hindi papuntang bahay ko ang dinadaanan niya.

He removed his right hand that’s holding the steering wheel and hold mine.
“We’re going to Tagaytay. I wanna show you the current state of your dream house.”

Kaagad akong ngumiti nang marinig ko iyon sa kaniya.
“Tapos na ba? Akala ko one year bago yun matapos?”

He guided my hand to his lips and kissed it gently.
“Hindi pa tapos, mahal. Gusto ko lang ipakita sa’yo.”

Bumaba kami sa kotse ni Carlos ng pumarada ito sa lote na nabili ni mom sa Tagaytay. In front of me is a structured house. It’s not yet finished but I can imagine the outcome already. The foundation of the base has been finalized. The external areas such as roofs, windows and door was fixed. I can’t wait to see it once it’s done.

Hindi ko na napigilan ang aking mga luha sa sobrang saya. Kasabay ng ihip ng hangin at sa ilalim ng maliwanag na buwan ay niyakap ako ni Carlos.

“Nagustuhan mo ba, mahal?”
he asked me while kissing my temple.

I nodded.
“Mahal, nagustuhan ko. I can’t wait to live here with you.”

Umalis siya sa pagkakayakap sa akin at gulat niya akong tiningnan.
“T-Talaga?! Gusto mo akong kasama dito sa bahay mo?”

I wiped his tears when I saw it falling from his eyes.
“Bahay natin, mahal. Gusto kong makita ka paggising sa umaga at bago ako matulog sa gabi. I can’t wait to grow old with you.”

He cupped my face and kissed me.
“Hindi mo alam kung gaano mo ako napasaya, mahal. I love you so, so, so, so much!!!”

“I love you too, my engineer!”
I whispered.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-22

“Mabuti naman dumating ka pa, Ezra. Nakakahiya naman sa’yo…just kidding.”
bungad sa akin ni Mr. Alvarez pagdating ko sa private resort sa Batangas kung saan gaganapin ang birthday niya.

Kaagad ko naman siyang niyakap.
“I’m sorry for being late. Happy birthday, Mr. Alvarez!”

“Thanks! Bakit ba hapon ka na nakarating?”
he curiously asked.

I scratched my head, trying to think of a good reason for being late.
“Uhmm…hapon na po ako nagising.”

Tinulungan naman ako ni Mr. Alvarez sa bitbit kong bag. We will just stay here in Rose Villas Resort for one night. Mr. Alvarez rented the whole resort so we can enjoy this night without any disturbance.

“Hey Ezra, buti nakarating ka. Kanina ka pa hinahanap nito ni Brett.”
Evan said while tapping the shoulder of Brett.

Mukhang marami nang nainom na alak si Brett dahil namumula na ang mukha niya. The girls are wearing their bikinis and bathing suits, while the boys are wearing swimming trunks, boxer shorts and briefs.

Nagulat ako ng biglang tumayo si Brett at niyakap ako nang mahigpit. He’s only wearing a red swimming brief kaya ramdam ko ang kalakihan niya nung yakapin ako.

He combed my hair.
“A-Akala ko hindi ka na darating.”

I smelled the reek of alcohol from his breath. Marahan ko siyang tinulak palayo sa akin dahil masyado siyang nakadikit. I admit, I missed his clingy personality and those times that he’s being sweet with me, but I’m now with Carlos. I should distant myself from Brett if we’re not doing a photoshoot. Talking is okay but, holding, touching, caressing and any excessive physical contact is not acceptable.

I gave him a sweet smile.
“Sorry, Brett. Napagod ako kagabi.”

He smirked.
“Bakit? Pinagod ka ba ni Carlo-”

Hindi ko na pinatapos ang sasabihin niya at mabilis kong tinakpan ang kanyang bibig.
“No! We didn’t do that. Whatever you’re thinking, just drop it.”

He gently removed my hand that’s covering his mouth.
“Alright. Sorry, I think I crossed the line again.”

Alas-8 na ng gabi nung magsimula akong mag-swimming sa pool. I’m wearing a black longsleeve rashguard swimwear. Kasama ko sa pool ang ilang mga models at masaya kaming nag-uusap.

Rhia who’s wearing a red geneva mesh top swimsuit came in my direction.
“Hey Ezra, look what I’m wearing? I followed what you chose last night pero hindi naman ako tiningnan ni Brett.”

“Lapitan mo na kasi. We’re living in 21st century, Rhia. Pwede nang mag-first move ang babae sa lalaki at walang batas na nagbabawal non.”
I advised her.

Rhia is badly in love with Brett for 6 months now. I assured her that I don’t see myself being in a relationship with Brett in the future. I always try my best to give them a chance to be close but, Brett doesn’t seem interested.

Rhia smiled at me.
“Sige, Ezra. I will now capture his heart by hook or by crook!”

Kaagad naman siyang umahon sa pool at pinuntahan si Brett na mukhang tulog na sa cottage. Nakita kong kinalabit ni Rhia si Brett and as usual, tinalikuran lang siya ni Brett.

Malalim na ang gabi at nagsimula na ang inuman. On top of our table are sets of Black Label, Bacardi, Jack Daniels. Meron din namang sisig, crispy pata, at fried chicken para sa aming pulutan.

Bumilib ako sa alcohol tolerance ni Brett dahil para siyang nakikipag-karera sa sunod-sunod niyang inom ng alak. He’s now as red as tomato and he’s breathing heavily. Mas lalong uminit ang inuman ng magsimula ang spin the bottle.

Natanong na ang halos lahat ng models at kaming dalawa nalang ni Brett ang di pa natitigilan ng bote. Mr. Alvarez is now spinning the bottle while, Rhia is filming us with her camera. Nanlaki ang mata ko ng tumigil sa akin ang ulo ng bote.

Tumikhim si Mr. Alvarez bago magsimulang magtanong.
“Truth or dare?”

I sighed.
“Truth.”

“Kayo na ba ni Brett?!”
biglang sabat ni Rhia habang hawak ang camera niya.

I looked at her intently.
“No, we’re not a couple.”

“Owwwwwwwwww!!!”
sigaw ng mga lalaking models habang tinatapik ang likod ni Brett.

Mr. Alvarez nodded his head.
“Alright, so I guess we don’t need the bottle anymore.”
Mr. Alvarez turned his face to Brett.
“Is it a truth or dare, Brett?”

Brett drank his glass full of liquor before he answer.
“Dare, of course.”

“Kiss!!!”
sigaw ng mga lalaking models na lasing na din.

“Alright. Brett, I dare you to kiss Ezra on the cheek.”
Mr. Alvarez blurted.

“That’s easy.”
Tumayo si Brett sa upuan niya at sinakop ang kanyang kamay sa aking mukha at hinalikan ako…

Sa labi.

I couldn’t move from my seat. He ravaged my lips and hold my nape to deepen it. He’s panting and the taste of alcohol makes it more hotter. Malakas ko siyang naitulak, dahilan para tumilapon siya at napahiga sa sahig.

Kaagad siyang tinulungan tumayo ng mga lalaking models. I can see the pain in Brett’s eyes when he look at me. Hindi ko na alam ang dapat kong maramdaman nung mga oras na iyon.

Pagkabigla,

Lungkot,

at kaba.

Bigla akong sinampal ni Rhia na siyang nagpabalik sa akin sa katinuan. She’s crying her heart out while looking at me. Mabilis siyang tumakbo palayo dala ang camera niya. Tahimik ang lahat at parang di makapaniwala sa kanilang nasaksihan.

Kinuha ko ang bag ko at umalis ng resort. Nakasakay na ako sa driver’s seat ng sasakyan ko. Makalipas ang ilang minuto na pagkatulala ay naramdaman ko ang aking mga luha na kanina pa magbabadyang tumulo.

What did I do?

How should I tell to Carlos?

I’m hitting my head on my steering wheel hoping it could lessen the anxiety that I’m feeling. Pero hindi nawala ang sakit. My whole body is trembling. I felt guilt inside me. I opened my bag beside me and dial the number of Carlos.

The number you have dialed is not in service. Please check the number and dial again.

I called him again. I called him multiple times until my fingers felt swollen and numb, but he didn’t answer my calls.

This is my fault and I need to pay for my consequences.

---

🌈🙃

A.T.U-23

Nakatingala lang ako sa kisame ng kwarto ko habang nakahiga sa aking kama. Wala pa akong tulog simula nung makauwi ako kaninang madaling-araw. Paulit-ulit kong tinatawagan si Carlos pero hindi talaga siya sumasagot.

Nagbihis ako pagkatapos kong maligo. Balak kong puntahan si Carlos sa condo niya at aminin sa kanya ang nangyari. Nakatayo ako sa harap ng aking vanity mirror habang pinagmamasdan ang sarili ko. Narinig ko ang pagtunog ng phone ko, dali-dali ko yung kinuha pero hindi si Carlos ang tumatawag. It’s Levi.

“Anong nangyari? Okay ka lang ba?”
Levi asked me after I pick up his call.

“Paano mo naman nalaman na di ako okay?”
I curiously asked.

Levi sighed.
“Trending na yung chukchakan niyo ni Brett. Kumusta kayo ni Carlos?”

I gripped my hair.
“What?! Paanong trending-”

I just remembered Rhia. She was holding a camera last night but I don’t want to assume. Rhia is my friend and she will never do that.

“Hello? Are you still alive?”
Levi worriedly ask.

“Sorry, Levi. I need to end this call now. Pupuntahan ko pa si Carlos.”
I said and ended the call.

Kaagad akong bumaba sa living room at nakita ko si mom na nagluluto ng almusal. Hindi ko naabutan si dad, he should be at his work now. Kaagad lumapit sa akin si mom at hinalikan ako sa pisngi.

She smiled.
“Good morning, anak. Kain tayo, nagluto ako ng paborito mo.”

I hugged her.
“Thank you, mom. Pupuntahan ko muna si Engr. Carlos.”

Her eyes looks surprised after I said that.
“Sige, anak. Mag-iingat ka.”

It’s already 8 am when I reached the condo of Carlos. Wearing a facemask and a black cap, I entered the building of his condo. Mabilis naman akong pinapasok ng guard nang ipakita ko ang visitor’s pass ko. Madalas kasi ako dito sa condo ni Carlos kapag wala akong taping. For the past 6 months that we’ve been together, we didn’t get caught even once.

I hurriedly pressed his passcode when I reached his unit. That’s our monthsarry, of course I will remember that. Pagbukas ko ng pinto ay tahimik ang loob ng room niya.

“M-mahal? Are you… here?”
I tried to call him but he didn’t answer.

I immediately called his number and I heard his phone’s ringtone in the bedroom. Mabilis kong tinahak ang bedroom niya at nakita ko siyang nagsusuot ng kanyang necktie sa harap ng salamin.

Nilapitan ko siya at hinawakan ang kanyang balikat para iharap siya sa akin. I was tying his red necktie over the collar button of his longsleeve when he broke the silence.

He looked at my eyes coldly.
“Bakit ka nandito?”

I removed my shaking hands off him when I finished tying his necktie. I looked at his eyes and trying to read what’s behind his gaze, but I can’t. The way he looked at me now is not the same Carlos I know.

“M-mahal, I’m sorry…”
I whispered. Yun nalang yung nasabi ko. Gusto kong magpaliwanag sa kanya pero alam kong hindi niya na ako balak pakinggan.

He looks disappointed at me.
“Paano mo nagawa sa akin ‘yon? Mahal, you know I’m trying my best to understand you. Alam kong trabaho lang ang mayroon sa inyo nung Brett na yon pero di ko na alam kung ano yung paniniwalaan ko.”

I tried to cup his face with my trembling hands but he avoided it.
“M-Mahal, maniwala ka sa akin. Hindi kita magagawang lokohin.”

“Mahal, sawa na ako. Sawa na akong nakikita na napapalapit ka sa lalaking ‘yon!”
sigaw sa’kin ni Carlos. Pakiramdam ko’y matagal niya na iyong kinimkim at ngayon lang siya nagkaroon nang lakas ng loob para sabihin sakin.

“That’s my dream, Carlos. Hindi ko kayang iwan iyon.”
I replied to him. I’m really hoping that he will understand where I’m coming from.

“Ano bang gusto mong patunayan? Na ikaw yung pinakasikat na model sa buong mundo? Fuck! Ezra di mo kailangan ng kasikatan para mabuhay!”
he bellowed.

“Carlos, naririnig mo ba yung sinasabi mo? You know how much I worked hard to achieve where I am now.”
I tried my best to lower down my voice to let him know that I don’t want to fight with him.

“I think it’s time for you to stop with modelling. Mahal, ano bang kailangan mo? Bahay? pera? pagmamahal? Lahat kaya kong ibigay sa’yo.”
I can feel that he’s now trying to calm when he asked me.

“Mahal, hindi naman iyon ang gusto ko. Masaya ako sa pagmo-modelling kaya ito yung trabaho ko. I will retire someday, pero hindi ngayo-”
he cut off my word when he shouted.

“Fuck! Mahal, kailan pa yung ‘someday’ na iyan? After 2 years again? 10 years? o 50 years? Hanggang kailan pa ako maghihintay? Pumili ka ako o iyang career mo?”
he gave me a choice.

Mahal na mahal ko si Carlos pero hindi ko kayang itigil ang pangarap ko. I tried to make him understand pero mukhang naunahan na siya ng selos. Hindi ko alam kung anong pipiliin ko.

I didn’t expect na sa kanya pa manggagaling ang tanong na iyon.

I didn’t expect na papipiliin niya ako between my passion and my love for him.

“You know what? Let’s break up. Baka di talaga tayo para sa isa’t-isa.”
I made up my mind. Mas pinili ko ang pangarap ko kesa sa kanya. Tinutusok ang puso ko nang makita ko ang pag-agos ng luha sa kanyang mga mata. I know he didn’t expect that answer. Alam kong umaasa siya na siya yung piliin ko, pero hindi.

“Fine. Let’s now stop seeing each other”
he said coldly and left.

Iniwan niya akong mag-isa sa condo niya. Napaupo ako sa sahig dahil parang wala na akong lakas. Wala na. Tapos na kami. At kasalanan ko ang lahat ng ito.

Umiyak ako ng umiyak sa sobrang lungkot. Sobrang bigat sa dibdib at parang gusto ko nang mawala. The moment he left me, was the moment I lost my dream to be with him in this lifetime.

I lost him. I lost my love, my strength and the reason why I’m still fighting.

---

🌈🙃

A.T.U-24

“Ezra, how does it feel to be the newest cover of Vogue Magazine?”
the reporter asked me.

“It feels great! For the past six years that I became a fashion model, being a cover model of Vogue has always been one of my greatest dream.”
I said and gave them a big smile.

“Is it true that Mr. Brett Fraiser is courting you for the past four years?”
one of the interviewer asked.

I gave them a quirky smile.
“Well, Brett and I are great partners. He’s a nice guy and very jolly person. He’s not courting me if that’s what you want to hear.”

It’s been 4 years after my break up with Carlos. Simula nung naghiwalay kami ay pinagod ko ang sarili ko sa pagta-trabaho para makalimutan siya. Nakakatuwang isipin na habang nagmo-move on ako ay mas lalo akong naging successful. My billboards are posted in major cities here in the U.S. I became a model to most of the luxury brands of clothes, bags, shoes and even cars. I also have my own clothing brand named
KELZ
which has a lot of branchies in the Philippines.

KELZ
stands for our squad’s names: (Kyle, Ezra, Levi and Zein)

Pagkatapos ng press conference ay pumunta na kami ni Adrian sa airport. Babalik na ulit ako ng Pilipinas after staying in the U.S for two years. I stayed in the Philippines for 2 years when Carlos and I broke up and I continue my work with Moore’s Modelling Corporation with Brett for another 2 years.

“Hindi ba sasabay sa atin yung mokong?”
tanong ni Adrian na katabi ko sa passenger seat sa loob private van.

I massaged my temple.
“Nauna na yata siyang bumalik sa Pilipinas kagabi.”

“Are you staying in the Philippines for good, Ezra?”
tanong sa akin ni Clyde na private driver ko sa Moore’s.

I smiled at him while looking at the rear-view mirror.
“Yes, Clyde. I’m staying there for good. I wanna retire from modelling and just focus with my own clothing brand. I will visit you guys again, I promise.”

After 15 hours of flight ay nakababa na kami ni Adrian sa Philippine Airlines. I’m wearing a Leopard Silk Shirt, Ralph Lauren Flat Pants and a Louis Vuitton flat shoes. I didn’t cut my hair that much for the past years so it’s now shouldered length and I dyed it silver.

A lot of reporters and cameramen went to our direction when they saw me walking. Adrian tried to block them but they outnumbered him.

“Hello Ezra, how are feeling that you’re now back in the Philippines again?”
the female interviewer put her microphone in front of my mouth.

I gave her a genuine smile.
“I’m really excited to see my family and friends.”

She put the microphone back to her.
“What can you advise to those aspiring models who wants to be successful like you?”

Modelling ang pinasok ko pero parang pang-Miss Universe ang tanungan.

“I believe, they should have the burning passion in their hearts so they can achieve success. And I, thank you!”

The reporters and cameramen chuckled.
“Thank you, Ezra. I’m sure the whole country missed you. Welcome back!”

I smiled to all of them. Some took a selfie with me and I just allowed them. I’ve been with different countries but nothing beats Philippines when it comes to hospitality.

Nagulat ako nang makita ko ang isang Ferrari Red car na naghihintay sa labas ng airport at iniluwal non sina Kyle at Terrence. Kyle immediately gave me a hug while Terrence is just looking at me coldly.

“Welcome back, Ezra! Bigatin ka na talaga. Di ka na ma-reach!”
pambobola sa akin ni Kyle.

I sighed.
“Kayong dalawa ng asawa mo ang di ko na ma-reach. Nakikita ko yung mga posts mo sa IG.

K

ung saan-saan kayo nag-honeymoon, ‘eh antagal niyo ng kasal…”

Kyle whispered.
“Humanap ka na rin kasi ng ka-honeymoon mo. Antagal niyo ng hiwalay ni Car—”

I cut him off.
“Ayoko na siyang pag-usapan.”

Terrence tsked.
“Ang tagal niyo naman. Nangangalay na akong hawakan ‘tong pinto ng kotse.”

Nakasakay kami ni Adrian sa passenger seat at parang gusto ko nang lumabas dahil nakaka-inggit ang ka-sweet-an nina Terrence at Kyle.

Kyle sulked.
“Babe, tuloy na tayo sa Friday, ah? Birthday ko ‘yon. Gusto ko kasama lahat ng friends ko.”

Terrence chuckled.
“Of course! Anything for you, babe. I already rent the whole place, so Ezra can also enjoy.”

I cleared my throat before speaking.
“Nakakahiya naman sa ‘yo, Terrence. Sana di mo na nirentahan yung buong EK para lang sa ‘kin. I can just wear a scarf or a facemask…”

Kyle shook his head.
“Hindi pwede. Kung nahihiya ka sa pinambayad ng asawa ko, sponsor-an mo nalang ako ng damit. Grabe, ang successful na ng

KELZ

!”

Kyle’s birthday will happen this Friday. That’s 2 days away from now and I heard that Terrence rented the whole Enchanted Kingdom in Laguna just because Kyle asked him to.

Tumango nalang ako. Binaba nila kami ni Adrian sa bahay ko sa Tagaytay. Nakakatuwang isipin na tinapos pa rin ni Carlos ang paggawa sa dream house ko after naming mag-hiwalay. Hindi na kami nag-usap ulit after he left me in his condo. I haven’t paid my house expenses to Carlos, dahil ayaw niya na rin akong kausapin.

Nakauwi na si Adrian sa kanila kaya mag-isa nalang ako dito sa bahay. Tumawag sa akin kanina sila mom, Levi, Zein at mga common friends sa modelling industry at sinabi kong magpapahinga muna ako dahil napagod ako sa biyahe.

I tried to stalk the instagram account of Carlos which I hope I didn’t do. Nagulat ako nang makita ang mga posts niyang pictures.

rossett_carlos24

10 posts | 80k followers | 0 following

Sa latest photo ay makikitang magkasama si Carlos at yung ex niya sa anniversary ng Rossett’s Construction Builders. Nasa isa silang private hotel at nakayakap sa bewang ni Carlos ang ex niya. I just remembered that his ex name is Valerie. 4 years na ang nakalipas pero sa mga business magazines ko lang nakikita si Carlos. This is the first time that I stalk him in any social media platforms. He unfollowed me after our break up and I guess that’s fine. I hurt him and I must be thankful na pinilit niya pa ring tapusin ang paggawa sa bahay ko.

Hindi ko na gustong makita ang ilan pang mga litrato dahil sumama na yung loob ko.

Nagkabalikan na siguro sila after 4 years?

Sana wag siyang saktan ni Valerie kagaya ng ginawa ko sa kanya.

That’s my only wish.

Minsan lang ako humiling pero siya pa rin ang iniisip ko.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-25

Maaga akong nagising dahil balak kong puntahan ang main branch ng
KELZ
which is nasa Makati. I already called Mr.Alvarez and told him that I won’t renew my contract with
Versace Modelling PH
. Successful naman ang aking clothing brand at meron na itong 48 branches all over the Philippines.

Adrian became the manager of
KELZ
dahil hindi ko naman siya kayang iwan after being with me for 6 years. I’m now 27 years old while Adrian is now 30. Nagkaroon naman siya ng mga girlfriends sa U.S pero di rin nagtatagal.

Pagkababa ko ng Audi car ay dumiretso na ako sa loob ng
KELZ.
Halos maluha ako ng makita ang naghihintay sa akin sa loob.

“We badly missed you Ezra!!!”
iyan ang nakasulat sa screen ng malaking projector pag pasok ko.

Nakita kong nakangiti sa akin sina Kyle, Levi, Zein, Adrian, Brett, Mr. Alvarez at mga co-models ko sa
Versace Modelling PH.

Nagulat ako nang bigla akong buhatin ng mga lalaking co-models ko noon at pinaupo ako sa isang leather black chair.

“Let’s get started boys!”
sigaw ni Levi.

Naghiyawan ang lahat ng dumilim ang paligid. Tumunog ang isang mabagal na kanta kasabay non ay ang pagliwanag ng disco ball lights. Halos lumuwa ang mga mata ko nang biglang sumayaw ang mga lalaking models kasama si Adrian at Brett. They are all topless and only wearing their white boxer shorts.

Now playing: Versace on the floor by Bruno Mars

Lumapit silang lahat sa akin at gumiling sa harap ko. Hindi na ako makagalaw lalo na nung sumayaw sila ala-Channing Tatum. Napatakip nalang ako ng mga mata ko nang mag-hip trust ang mga models habang nakadapa sa sahig. Nakita ko si Kyle na mukhang kausap na ngayon si Terrence sa telepono dahil naririnig ko ang pagsigaw niya.

Kyle growled.
“Babe, hindi ako tumitingin okay? Bakit ko naman sila titingnan, eh meron ka rin naman non!”

Levi is looking grumpy while talking to someone on his phone too.

While, here comes Zein who’s just covering his eyes. He’s still the epitome of innocence.

Natapos ang kanta at dumilim ulit ang paligid. Lumiwanag naman ito kaagad at nakita ko ang mga lalaking models na nakabihis ngunit pawis na pawis.
Mr. Alvarez went in my direction while holding a blueberry circular cake. It has light candles so I made a wish before blowing it.

It’s the same wish for the past 4 years. It’s always been about him. About my love. About Carlos.

Isa-isa nila akong niyakap ng bigla akong umiyak. Halos lahat ng malapit sa akin ay nandito pero parang may kulang. Masaya ako sa narating ko but, I don’t feel complete. There’s a missing piece in my heart that I need to find for me to feel contented.

Naging malakas ang kita ng
KELZ
sa mga dumaang araw. Having millions of followers in my social media accounts really helped me in promotion my own clothing brand. Ang iba na galing pang ibang bansa ay dumadayo pa ng Pilipinas para lang makabili ng aking mga damit at para makita ako.

Bukas na ang birthday ni Kyle kaya naghahanap na ako ng susuotin ko. Marami namang clothing designs ang
KELZ
kaya hindi na ako bumili sa iba. Nakikipagsabayan ako sa mga customers nang biglang pumasok sa loob ang isang pamilyar na babae. It’s Valerie.

She smiled at me bitterly when she saw me.
“Long time no see, Ezra! Hindi ko alam na nakauwi ka na pala.”

I stood up from sitting to face her.
“Bakit kasi hindi ka nagche-check ng social media? Naging trending for 3 days ang pagbabalik ko-”

Hindi ko na natapos ang sasabihin ko nang pumasok si Carlos. I can’t believe that for the past 4 years ay ganon pa rin ang itsura niya. Mas lumapad lang ang kanyang balikat at naging maganda ang kanyang tindig. He looks mature now. Nakikita ko madalas ang mga photos niya sa mga magazines pero na-starstruck pa rin ako ngayong kaharap ko na siya.

Hinawakan niya ang bewang ni Valerie kaya napatingin ako doon.
“Val, bakit ba ang tagal mo? Kanina pa ako naghihintay sa labas.”

Para akong binuhusan ng malamig na tubig nung marinig ko iyon sa kanya. They must be a couple now. Thank god, natupad din yung wish ko na mapunta siya sa taong magpapahalaga sa kanya. Alam kong hindi ako yun pero masaya ako para sa kanya. Masaya ako sa kanilang dalawa.

Valerie hugged the waist of Carlos in front of me.
“Mahal, gusto kong bumili ng dress nila. Nakita ko kasi sa instagram na maganda ang mga reviews.”

Mahal?

She called him ‘mahal’.

Ang sakit-sakit ng puso ko at parang gusto ko nalang mag-walkout pero hindi ko magawa dahil customers ko sila. They looked so sweet together. Mas lalong nadurog ang puso ko nang makita ko ang engagement ring na suot ni Valerie sa kanyang kaliwang kamay.

They are engaged.

Ezra, ikakasal na ang taong mahal mo.

Parang biglang naglaho ang kakarampot kong pag-asa na magiging kami pa. I already planned everything  in the future and I want him to be with me during the process. Pero malabo na iyong mangyari.

Carlos smiled at her before facing me.
“Uhmm…Mr. Carson, do you have the dress that she wants?”

I smiled flatly.
“O-Of course. We have the d-dress that she’s looking for.”

Oh god! Hindi ko na kaya. Can someone save me from this punishment? I feel like I’m being tortured inside. I hope they didn’t notice that I’m forcing myself to keep up with them.

Valerie kissed Carlos quickly.
“Thank you, babe!”

Napaupo ako mula sa pagkakatayo dahil nawalan ako ng lakas. Napatingin sa akin ang lahat ng helpers at mga customers sa loob ng
KELZ.
Parang nagkaroon ako ng pag-asa nang makita ko ang pagpasok ni Brett sa shop ko at galit niyang tiningnan si Carlos bago lumapit sa akin.

Inalalayan ako ni Brett tumayo.
“Bakit kasi sa kanya ka pa nahulog? Ako naman ‘tong parang tanga na laging sumasalo sa’yo.”
he whispered to my left ear.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-26

Nakatayo din ako kaagad pagkatapos akong alalayan ni Brett. Nakahawak lang siya sa bewang ko at di niya iyon inalis kahit nakatayo na ako. Nakita ko ang pagkunot ng noo ni Carlos habang nakatingin sa kamay ni Brett sa bewang ko.

Brett used his free hand and offer it to Carlos.
“It’s been a while, Engr. Rossett!”

Carlos didn’t take Brett’s hand and just speak coldly.
“Yeah, it’s been a while…”
he looked at my eyes before he continue what he’s saying.
“How are you?”

Brett retreat his hand and pushed my waist close to him.
“We are good, just like you guys.”

Bigla namang sumabat si Valerie.
“You know what? We should have a double date in the future.”

Brett smirked.
“Sure, lalo na ngayon na hindi na nagmo-model si Ezra. Mas may oras na siya sa akin.”
he said before he hold my chin and lean his face close to mine.

Nagulat ako nang biglang natumba si Brett. I looked at Carlos who punched the face Brett and he’s now breathing heavily. His jaw is now clenched.

Biglang yumakap si Valerie kay Carlos.
“Babe, why did you do that?”

Nakita ko naman ang mga helpers ko na pinalabas ang mga customers galing sa loob ng shop. They probably noticed that we’re now having a quarrel and they don’t want to intrude so they also left.

“Gago yan eh! Fuck! Tuwing makikita ko yan, dumidilim yung paningin ko!”
Carlos shouted while pointed at Brett.

Kaagad ko namang tinulungan si Brett at inayos ang mga damit na nagkalat sa sahig dahil sa pagtilapon niya. Malalim ang paghinga ni Brett habang nakatingin kay Carlos. I checked his face at huminga ako nang maluwag dahil wala naman siyang sugat.

“C-Carlos, let’s just go.”
Valerie suggested.

Tumango naman si Carlos at lumabas ng shop kasama si Valerie. Mabilis na humarurot ang Lexus Car ni Carlos nung makapasok si Valerie sa shotgun seat.

I sighed.
“Okay ka lang, need ba nating pumunta ng ospital?”

Brett growled.
“Ezra, ano ba?! Ospital? Hindi magagamot ng kahit sinong doktor yung puso ko. Bakit kasi hindi nalang ako?”
hinawakan niya ang dalawa kong kamay at dinala iyon sa pisngi niya.
“Look at me. Ako. Ako yung tunay na nagmamahal sa’yo pero siya pa rin yung gusto mo!”

I wiped his tears when he started tearing up.
“I-I’m sorry, Brett. You know I how much I tried to love you more than a friend pero…hindi ko talaga magawa…”

Tinanggal niya ang kamay ko mula sa mukha niya.
“Hindi ako susuko, Ezra. Hindi ko hahayaang masaktan ka ulit ng lalaking yon!”
he bellowed before leaving me inside my shop.

Kinabukasan ay maaga akong nag-prepare. I invited Adrian to join us with Kyle’s birthday but, he declined. Nakabihis na ako at nag-aayos ng gamit. Nakatingin ako sa salamin at pinagmamasdan ang sarili ko nang biglang nag-ring ang cellphone ko. Agad ko naman yung sinagot nung makita kong si Kyle ang tumatawag.

I smiled before speaking.
“Happy 27th birthday, Kyle!”

Terrence laughed on the other line.
“Sige, sasabihin ko yan sa asawa ko. I just want to remind you that EK will open at 11 am. Do you want us to pick you up?”

I declined.
“Wag na. Nakakahiya naman sa inyo. You guys are so sweet which makes me feel alone when I’m with the both of you.”

He chuckled again.
“Ahhh…alam ko na yung gusto mong iparating. Your wish is my command. Bye!”

He dropped the call. Never in my life that someone hang up on me. Napabuntong hininga nalang ako.
It’s still 8 am so I decided to sleep.
I’m not sure how long have I slept but, the continues ring on my doorbell woke me up. Hinilot ko ang aking sintido at nagsimulang lumakad sa pinto.

Akma kong isasara ang pinto ng makita ko si Carlos pero pinigilan niya ito, dahilan kung bakit siya naipit.

He growled while shaking his hurt hand.
“Ahhh Fuck! A-Ang sakit!!!”

Kaagad ko namang hinawakan ang kamay niyang naipit para tingnan kong dumugo. I sighed in relief when I see that it didn’t bleed, it’s just a little reddish. Napatingin ako sa kanya ng bigla siyang tumawa.

“Hindi kasi ‘yan. Itong kabila yung naipit.”
and he showed me his right hand.

Kalma, Ezra. Hindi mo siya pwedeng sigawan. Tandaan mong hindi ka pa bayad sa paggawa niya ng bahay mo.

I rolled my eyes before I let go of his left hand.
“Ano ba kasing ginagawa mo dito?!”

He took a deep breath.
“Syempre sinusundo kita. Kanina pa tayo hinihintay don.”

Napatingin ako sa wallclock na nakasabit sa living room at nakita kong 1:30 pm na. Dali-dali akong bumalik sa kwarto at kinuha ang ilan kong gamit. I checked myself in the vanity mirror before going out. Mabuti naisipan kong magbihis na pang-alis bago matulog kanina.

“Nandito yung kotse ko. Saan ka pupunta?”
tanong niya nung makita akong papalapit sa sasakyan ko. He held my wrist before I open the door of my Audi’s driver’s seat.
“Hey, allow me to drive you there.”

I heavily sighed when I turn my face to him. ”
Ano bang problema mo? Pwede bang layuan mo na ako? Ayoko na ulit masampal.”

I saw the surprise look on his face.
“W-What? Sinong sumampal sa’yo?”

“You know what? Let’s drop this topic. Send me your bank account information so I can pay you for building my house. Ayoko nang makita ka, Carlos.”
I said before I open the driver’s seat door.

Mabilis ang aking pagpapatakbo at nakikita ko namang sumusunod siya sa likuran. In less than an hour ay narating na namin ang Enchanted Kingdom. Hindi ko na sinuot ang scarf ko ng makita ko sila Kyle sa labas.

Kaagad akong nginitian ni Kyle.
“Akala ko hindi ka pupunta eh. Magtatampo talaga ako sa’yo…”

I gave him a hug.
“Sorry for being late, Kyle. Not just now but, also for those times that you need someone. Busy kasi ako eh at mukhang busy rin kayo.”
I pouted my lips at Terrence’s direction.

Halos lahat ng rides ay nasakyan na namin. Lumalayo ako kay Carlos dahil ayaw ko siyang kasama sa kahit anong rides pero wala na akong magawa nung nasa Ferris Wheel na kami. By partners daw kasi kada cabin. May ilan din namang mga katrabaho nina Kyle sa Rossett’s Corporation na sumama pero ayaw nila akong ka-partner.

“Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!! Ayoko na! Ibaba niya na ako!”
sigaw ni Carlos na nasa harapan ko. Mahigpit siyang nakahawak sa upuan niya at takot na takot.

He’s the same Carlos as before. Takot pa rin siya sa heights. Bigla kong naalala yung date namin sa Tagaytay at sumakay kami sa zip line. I remembered that he held my hand tightly to lessen the fear that he’s feeling on that moment. That’s also the time that I realized that I already love him.

I offered my hand to him.
“Hey Mr. Engineer, just shut up and hold

my hand
.”

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-27

Carlos Pov

Parties, clubs and girls. Iyan ang naging buhay ko sa U.S. I was a spoiled brat. My mother adores me, whereas my father is uninterested in me. My mother would always tell me to enjoy my life and leave the stress to Terrence. I am my father’s legitimate child, and he expected me to take over his business, but I declined.

I aspire to be an engineer. That’s my fantasy, but I’m a fool. In every way, I’m not a serious person. I enjoy fooling around. I’ve never been serious about myself, my relationships, or my dreams.

This girl with whom I’m flirting slapped me across the face.
“Fuck! Carlos, we’ve been dating for three fucking days and you still can’t remember my name; I told you I’m Alice, and you keep calling me different names! You know what? Let’s break up!”
she yelled as she stormed out the bar’s exit.

She said I couldn’t fuck her if we weren’t dating, so I did. Now that she’s gone, I guess I’ll have to look for someone else. Before I decided to go home, I drank several shots of whiskey in front of me.

I tried to enter my passcode, but the door would not open. Fuck! I pressed it once more. I didn’t even think before pressing the doorbell. When I saw a beautiful girl, I was taken aback. My vision was blurred, but I could still make out her pale skin. I want to claim her dazzling eyes, thin pointed nose, and soft lips.

“What’s your name? You look like my future wife.”
I asked after I get up from her bed.

“Why do want to know my name, sir? I bet you can’t even remember the girl that you fucked last night?”
she directly asked.

I love her bold personality. Wala siyang alinlangan kung magtanong. Nung mga oras na iyon gusto kong humiling na mawala yung kalasingan ko para makita ko kung gaano siya kaganda.

We made love that night.

Maliwanag na ang silaw ng araw sa labas paggising ko. Nakita ko ang buong katawan niyang nakakumot kaya hindi ko na siya ginising. I immediately put my clothes on. Nakapa ko ang $5,000 cash sa likod ng bulsa ko kaya nilapag ko iyon sa bedside table niya. Bayad ko yun sa pagpapatulog niya sa akin sa unit niya. Hinalikan ko ang mukha niyang nakabalot ng kumot at mabilis na umalis.

It’s already night when I get back to her unit. I tried to press her doorbell but seems like she’s not inside. Naghihintay nalang ako sa labas ng unit niya. I keep on checking my wristwatch at napansing kong 30 minutes na akong naghihintay pero wala pa rin siya. Kung siya lang naman yung hihintayin ko ay hindi ko na aalahanin ang oras.

Isa,

dalawa,

tatlo!

Tatlong oras na akong naghihintay pero hindi pa rin siya bumabalik. Never in my life that I waited this long for just a girl. Kung ibang babae lang iyon baka sumuko na ako agad. Nakayuko at ramdam ko na ang antok nang biglang nakarinig ako nang yapak ng paa na palalapit sa akin. I saw a man who’s around my age and he stopped in front of me.

“You’re not deserving to be the husband of someone who lives here. That person wants to be successful, and you might drag that person down. Get lost,”
he said, judging my appearance.

I know I look like a mess that night. Umalis nalang ako dahil sa sinabi niya. Simula no’n nagbago ako. Hindi na ako sumasama sa mga parties, clubs at bars. Hindi na rin ako nambabae. I was dropped from school since primary and secondary school, so I graduated from college later than my classmates.

”

I’m just giving your money back and don’t look for me again. Hindi na kita gustong makita kahit kailan.”
that’s what she said after she gave me the money I left on her unit 2 months ago.

Iniwan niya ulit ako.

Parang gusto ko siyang habulin nung iwan niya ako pero ‘di ko ginawa. I need to become successful first especially now I know that she’s a famous model. I badly want to become someone that she can rely on. Someone that she can be proud of just like how proud I am with her.

“Ezra Gale Carson, 23, famous runaway model in Versace Modelling PH. He started his modelling career in Moore’s Modelling Corporation. Son of Belinda and Christian Car-”

I cut off the detective I hired just to investigate her, I mean
him
.
“What did you say? You said “son”?

The detective nodded.
“Yes Engineer. I said son. Ezra Gale Carlos is a man.”

Pinipigilan ko ang sarili kong tumawa pagkatapos kong marinig iyon. Lalaki pala siya. Pero bakit mukha siyang babae? Mas maganda pa siya sa mga naging girlfriends ko dati. I can’t believe I fell with a guy.

The future wife that you’ve been looking for two years is none other than this gay homo!”
sigaw sa akin ni Valerie na ex-girlfriend ko.

Nagkaroon ako ng pag-asa nung marinig ko yun sa kanya. He’s not straight, he’s gay. Hindi ako nakaramdam ng pandidiri. Naging mas masaya pa nga ako nung malaman ko ang bagay na iyon dahil may pag-asa na ako sa kanya.

Nalaman ko na naghahanap ang mom niya ng engineer na gagawa ng dream house niya kaya dali-dali kong tinawagan ang
mother-in-law
ko. Naging mahaba ang pag-uusap namin sa telepono dahil kung ano-ano ang kinikwento niya. Mostly about politics, business and bible study. Pero mas lalo akong natuwa nung sinabi niyang matagal ng walang karelasyon si Ezra.

“Hey, hindi ko ‘to mauubos lahat. Ayaw mo bang kumain?”
tanong niya sa akin sa first date namin.

“Sinasaulo ko lang kung gaano ka kaganda.”
I confessed.

Kahit siguro titigan ko siya buong araw sa date namin ay hindi ako magsasawa. Lahat ng magazines na siya ang cover ay nabili ko na. Kahit sa mga ka-trabaho ko, pinagmamalaki ko siya. Hindi pa niya ako sinasagot pero daig ko pa ang boyfriend kung sumuporta sa kanya.

I’m his number 1 fan.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-28

“Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!”
sigaw ko nang magsimula ang zip line ride habang hawak ko ang kamay ni Ezra.

Sa totoo lang, hindi talaga ako takot sa heights. Namumutla kasi siya kanina kaya ako nalang ang sumigaw para mawala ang takot niya. At mukhang effective naman dahil nakatingin nalang siya sa akin sa buong ride.

“Mahal, di ako marunong kumanta kaya wag mo akong tawanan ulit. Gusto ko lang malaman mo na ikaw ang sinisigaw ng puso ko.”
I gave him a heads up.

Fuck, this is the first time na kakanta ako sa harap ng kahit na sino. Hindi naman kasi maganda ang boses ko. Mas pasok pa nga akong rapper kesa singer. Gusto kong malaman niya ang laman ng puso ko sa kantang
Forevermore.

Kung papalarin ako, gusto ko iyon yung maging themesong namin kapag kinasal na kami. Kasal na agad yung plano ko, hindi pa nga niya ako sinasagot.

“Take your hands off him!”
I warned Brett when I saw him holding Ezra’s wrist.

“Why would I do that? Sino ka ba?!”
he blurted.

Sino nga ba ako kay Ezra?

Ano bang karapatan kong magselos?

Binigay ko kay Ezra ang dala kong payong at iniwan siya kay Brett. Basa na ako ng ulan pero di ako nakaramdam ng lamig. Pakiramdam ko’y manhid na ako. Nakatulala ako habang mabilis na nagmamaneho.
Nagulat ako nang biglang mag-overtake ang isang SUV sa harap ko mabilis ko naman iyong iniwasan at bumunggo ang kotse ko sa poste.

Akala ko ay patay na ako nang bigla kong narinig ang boses ng mahal kong umiiyak.
“Mahal, gu-gusto kong malaman mo na sinasagot na kita. Alam kong huli na ako, pero tandaan mong hindi na ako ulit magmamahal kung di lang din ikaw.”

Hindi ko na napigilang ngumiti. Kailangan ko pa palang maaksidente para sagutin niya ako. Kung alam ko lang ay sana dati ko pa sinadyang maaksidente.

“T-Talaga?! Gusto mo akong kasama dito sa bahay mo?”
tanong ko sa kanya.

I wanted to clarify if I heard it correctly. Gusto daw niya akong makasama. I didn’t expect to hear that from my love. Akala ko kasi, ako lang yung nangangarap na makasama siya sa pagtanda. Akala ko, di ako kasali sa mga plano niya. Sa dami ng mga nagkakagusto sa kanya, napakaswerte ko dahil ako ang pinili niya…

“M-Mahal, I’m sorry.”
Ezra said, looking guilty.

Hindi niya alam kung gaano ako nasaktan nung mapanood ko ang video na kahalikan niya si Brett. Pilit kong sinasabi sa sarili ko na trabaho lang yun pero, alam kong hindi lang trabaho ang nasa isip ni Brett. Alam kong mahal niya rin si Ezra.

“M-Mahal, maniwala ka sa akin. Hindi kita magagawang lokohin.”
pagmamakaawa niya.

“Mahal, sawa na ako. Sawa na akong nakikita na napapalapit ka sa lalaking yon!”
sigaw ko sa kanya. Matagal ko na itong gustong sabihin at ngayon ko lang nasabi.

“I think it’s time for you to stop with modelling. Mahal, ano bang kailangan mo? Bahay? pera? pagmamahal? Lahat kaya kong ibigay sa’yo.”
I know I’m being unreasonable. Pero ang hirap sa akin na nakikita siyang napapalapit sa lalaking iyon. Hindi malabong magkamabutihan sila at mahulog sa isa’t-isa. At kapag nangyari ‘yon, maiiwan na naman ako.

“You know what? Let’s break up. Baka di talaga tayo para sa isa’t-isa.”
Ezra said while looking at my eyes.

Simula nun, bumalik ako sa dating ako. Nag-party ako, nag-club at nambabae ulit pero siya pa rin talaga. Kahit anong gawin kong paraan ay hindi ko magawang makalimutan siya. Natapos ko ng gawin ang dream house niya pero hindi na siya nagpakita sa akin.

Iniwan niya ako ulit.

“Dad, here’s Valerie. My fiancee.”
I said while holding the waist of my ex.

My dad is suffering from Lung Cancer stage 4. He said that he wants to see me get married before he leave this world. My mom suggested Valerie as my fiancee kaya pumayag nalang ako. Inamin ko kay Valerie na hindi ko na siya mahal at sinabi niyang subukan daw namin, dahil baka magustuhan namin ang isa’t-isa. She’s a nice girl. Maganda, matalino at sigurado akong mahal ako pero, hindi ganon ang nararamdaman ko para sa kanya.

Yung tanging laman ng puso ko hanggang ngayon ay si Ezra pa rin.

I couldn’t help but to feel proud when he started to have his own clothing brand. Hindi ako kumakanta pero ginawa ko para sa kanya noon. At ngayon pati pagsho-shopping sa sarili niyang shop ay ginawa ko na. Gusto ko siyang suportahan kahit sa maliit lang na bagay.

Hindi na rin nagtagal ay iniwan na kami ni dad. I don’t remember having a serious conversation with him before but, it happen the day before he died.

“A-Anak, I may not be a good dad but I know when you’re happy and when you’re not. Hanapin mo yung taong nagpasaya sa’yo dati. Yung taong totoo mong mahal hangga’t hindi pa huli ang lahat. Wag kang gumaya sa akin na hanggang ngayon ay umaasang makita siyang m-muli.”
he advised while keeping his eyes open to see me.

Dad was badly in love with Terrence’s biological mother. He and my mom are forced to marry each other because of a business deal. I know my mom truly loves dad at nasasaktan ako tuwing nakikita ko siyang umiiyak tuwing gabi. Sadyang hindi matuturuan ang puso kahit gaano pa katagal kung mayroon na itong ibang tinitibok.

Nung narinig ko yun kay dad ay mas lalo akong nagsumikap to be a better man for Ezra. Gusto kong maging proud din siya sa akin. Gusto kong ipagmalaki niya ako gaya ng ginagawa ko sa kanya.

This time I’m willing to support him no matter what.

Starting from now, I’m willing to chase him again.

I made an oath to myself that I will
attain the unreachable
.

I will win you back, mahal. That’s my number one goal.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-29

Ezra’s Pov

Hinawakan naman agad ni Carlos ang kamay ko. Hindi nakaalis sa aking paningin kung paano tumaas ang sulok ng kanyang labi. Kung hindi lang siya sumigaw sa zip line date namin 4 years ago, iisipin kong umaarte lang siya ngayon.

“Maha-Ezra, tingnan mo! Malapit na tayo sa pinakatuktok.”
Carlos said while above.

I sighed.
“Ano naman ngayon? Gusto mo itulak kita?”

That was just a joke. Pero mukhang sineryoso niya dahil nawala na ang ngiti sa kanyang labi.

He pout his lips.
“Hindi. Sabi kasi nila, kapag daw nag-kiss yung mag-couple sa pinakatuktok, magiging sila daw habambuhay.”

I chuckled while covering my mouth.
“Saan mo naman nalaman yan? Wag ka ngang maniwala sa mga ganon. Mataas din naman yung zip line na sinakyan natin dati, pero di naman tayo nagtagal…”

Ezra, hindi ka pa rin maka-move on.

Inalis ko ang kamay kong hawak niya at nilabas ang cellphone ko sa aking bulsa at kumuha ng litrato. Kinuha niya rin ang phone niya at nanlaki ang mata ko nang makita ko ang picture naming dalawa na wallpaper niya. That was our picture that we took 4 years ago sa picnic grove in Tagaytay. Hindi niya pa rin pala binubura.

“I’m very proud of you, M-Mahal.”
he said when we reached the highest peak of the whole ride.

I gave him a genuine smile.
“A-Ako din. Proud din ako sa ‘yo.”

Napaawang ang labi ko nang tumulo ang luha niya. Mabilis niya iyong pinunasan at nagpatuloy sa pagkuha ng mga pictures. Malapit na kaming makarating sa baba ng ferris wheel nang bigla siyang nagsalita.

“C-Can we take a picture together?”
he asked while looking at me sincerely.

“Sure,”
mabilis kong sagot.

If this would be our last picture together, I will make sure to treasure it in this lifetime. Lumapit siya sa akin at inilahad ang kamay niyang may hawak na phone. I lean close to him and smile in front of his camera. That was quick photo of me and Carlos smiling awkwardly.

Nang makababa kami sa ferris wheel ay inalalayan ako ni Carlos. He didn’t change at all, he’s still a gentleman since before. Nakita ko ang mapang-asar na mata nina Kyle nung makita kami ni Carlos. Nang matapos kami sa Enchanted Kingdom ay dumiretso kami sa isang private restaurant na nirentahan din ni Terrence just for Kyle’s special day.

Black and gold ang theme ng restaurant. There’s a large rectangular table at the center and at least 10 comfy chairs for all of us. As usual tumabi na naman si Carlos. Pinipilit kong lumayo sa kanya pero siya itong lapit nang lapit sa akin. Hindi ko naman siya magawang pagbawalan dahil baka masira ang celebration ni Kyle. Carlos is one of Kyle’s close friends after all.

“T-Thank you…”
I told Carlos after he sliced the steak on my plate into small pieces.

Nginitian niya naman ako.
“No problem. As long as it’s you, I’ll be glad to help.”
he whispered.

Hindi ko napigilang umiyak nung ipinalabas sa malaking projector ang mga sweet videos and pictures nina Kyle at Terrence sa iba’t-ibang bansang napuntahan nila. Kyle decided to be Terrence’s permanent secretary after they got married. Mas lalong naging successful ang Rossett’s Holdings Corporation at yun ay dahil magkasama nilang sinusuportahan ang isa’t-isa.

I couldn’t help but to feel envious. Successful din naman ako pero hindi ako masaya. After all those years that I’ve been in front of the cameras, I realized that I need someone beside me to cheer me up. I’m really hoping that it’s Carlos. I dream to become successful with him by my side pero pinapili niya ako between my love for him and my career.

God knows how much I love both him and my career 4 years ago.

“Ano? Bakit magkasama na naman kami nito?!”
I shouted while pointing at Carlos.

Nandito kami ngayon sa isang private hotel sa Laguna at sinabi ni Kyle na by pair daw ulit ang magkakasama bawat room. Hindi ko na ito nagugustuhan dahil gusto niya kami laging pagsamahin ni Carlos. At syempre, tuwang-tuwa naman si Carlos sa tabi ko.

Carlos sighed in disbelief.
“Grabe ka naman, ayaw mo ba talaga akong kasama?”

I just rolled my eyes before I start walking. Dala ko ang maliit kong bag at pinindot ko ang 10th floor button ng elevator. Pagkalabas ko ay hinanap ko agad ang room na ni-reserve para sa amin ni Carlos. I’m keeping myself calm when I saw the deluxe room inside. May mga rose petals mula sa pinto hanggang sa taas ng king kize bed. May mga sweet candles at may mapang-akit na kanta sa stereo.

Now playing: I See Red - Everybody loves an outlaw

I see red, red, oh red

A gun to your head, head, to your head, oh

Executioner style, and there won’t be no trial

Don’t you know that you’re better off dead

All I see is red, red, oh red

Now all I see is

“Wow, that’s a perfect song!”
Carlos whispered behind me.

I nodded.
“Oo nga-”
kaagad nanlaki ang mata ko nung ma-realize ko yung sinabi ko. Humarap ako sa kanya.
“O-Oo nga maganda. Hehe favorite ko kasi yung 365 na movie.”

Ezra, bakit naman yun yung sinabi mo?

He chukled before biting his lower lip.
“Gusto mo bang..

.”
he said and winked at me.
“alam mo na?”

“Alam mo, ang manyak mo!”
I shouted at him.

Naglakad ako nang padabog at pinatong ang bag ko sa side table. Humiga naman agad si Carlos sa kama at tinapik ang space sa tabi niya habang nakatingin sa akin.

“Mahal, dito ka sa tabi ko. Cuddle tayo kagaya nung dati sa ospital.”
he suggested.

I sighed heavily.
“Wag mo nga akong tawaging mahal! May asawa ka na, ang landi mo pa rin.”

He immediately sat on the bed after hearing what I said.
“Mahal, I don’t have a wife other than you. Hindi mo pa ako pinapakasalan kaya wala pa rin akong asawa…”

I rolled my eyes, trying to calm myself down.
“Eh, bakit kasama mo lagi yung Valerie? May pictures pa kayong sweet sa Instagram tapos yung singsing na suot niya-”

Napahawak ako sa aking bibig. I can’t believe I will act as a sulky person in front of him. Nakatulala lang si Carlos sa akin nung sabihin ko yun.

He smiled.
“Hindi ko asawa si Valerie, hindi ko naman magagawang pakasalan ang taong di ko mahal. Maniwala ka sa akin, mahal. Ikaw lang yung taong papakasalan ko.”
he confessed while holding my hands.

A part of me wants to believe him but it’s still not clear to me. Being with him before, I know if he’s lying or not. At sa nakikita ko ngayon, alam kong nagsasabi siya ng totoo.

I hope he really meant what he said.

---

🌈💅

A.T.U-30 (SPG)

Warning: This chapter contains mature content. Read at your own risk

.

Sinabi niya sa akin ang lahat-lahat ng nangyari sa kanya for the past 4 years. He said that his dad was diagnosed with lung cancer and he just made a deal with Valerie to pretend as his fiancee before his dad passed away.

Nakakalungkot isipin na hindi siya nakaramdam ng pagmamahal sa kanyang ama dahil malapit ito kay Terrence. Nangako siya sa dad niya na hahanapin niya ang taong mahal niya dahil hindi iyon nagawa ng dad niya sa ina ni Terrence.

Sobrang saya ko nung malaman kong ako pa rin ang mahal niya. After all these years our love for each other never fade. Siya pa rin ang tinitibok ng puso ko at ganon din siya para sa akin.

Napadaing ako nang maramdaman ko ang mabigat na nakadagan sa tiyan ko. I opened my eyes and saw a man’s arm hugging my waist. Napasilip ako sa likod ko at nakita ko si Carlos na mahimbing na natutulog at walang suot na damit pang-itaas.

Dahan-dahan kong hinawakan ang kamay niya para alisin iyon sa akin pero mas lalo niya iyong hinigpitan. He’s whimpering and panting heavily. Kaagad akong humarap sa kanya at hinawakan ang kanyang pisngi.

He cried.
“Mahal, please wag mo akong iwan…”
he blurted while sleeping.

He must be dreaming.

I wiped his tears on his cheeks and gave him a short kiss. I hope I didn’t do that when he suddenly cupped my face and bite my lower lip, making me open my mouth because of the sudden shock. I’m not sure if he’s still sleeping when he started to use his tongue to enter my mouth.

I missed him so much. His warm touch, hugs and kisses that I’ve been longing for 4 years. Mabilis niya akong pina-ibabaw sa kanya. I hugged his neck to fully savoured his lips. His lemon scent makes me crazy. We’re now both catching our breaths and panting heavily..The side of his lips rose up when he opened his eyes and saw me kissing him.

”
Ugh! Mahal, I missed you.”
he sincerely said while looking intently into my eyes.

“I missed you too, m-mahal.”
I whispered.

Mabilis niyang inalis ang kumot na nakatakip sa ibabang parte ng katawan niya at nakita kong wala siyang suot na kahit ano. I couldn’t help but notice his curved upward long shaft in front of me. I moved myself backward so I can face his raging member.

Using my tongue, I licked his balls up to his cock’s tip while looking at him seductively. I can hear him moan from the sensation that he’s feeling. I wanted to tease him a bit so, I gently bite his shaft.

He growled.
“Ugh! Mahal, stop that. That’s hurting me…”

I used both of my hands to massage his cock with up and down motion. I saw his pants belt on the floor and I immediately grab it. I stood up from lying on the bed and gave him a naughty smile.

“Mahal, I wanna show you the dominant side of me…”
I murmurred while stretching his belt using my both hands in front of him.

He licked his lower lip before he smirk.
“Show me what you’ve got, mahal.”

Mabilis akong pumatong sa matigas niyang dibdib at tinali ang dalawa niyang kamay sa headboard ng kama.
Sinigurado kong mahigpit ang pagkakatali no’n para di siya makawala.

I kissed his lips before I sucked his neck. Napatingala naman siya para mas lalo ko siyang mahagkan. I’m using both of my hands to massage his nipples while planting kiss marks on his neck.

“Fuck! Mahal, let me go. Ayoko nito. Gusto kitang hawakan. Ugh! Please?”
he pleaded.

I tsked before I shook my head.
“Mmmm..no, no, no. Sabi mo kagabi gusto mong gawin natin yung 365 na movie? So, just stay there and let me do the work.”

I bow down a bit and licked his pinkish hard nipple on his left chest. I’m using my free hand to stroke his hard member below me. Mas lalo pa siyang umungol nang simulan kong halikan ang kahabaan niya.

He screamed.
“Fuck! Mahal, masakit na yung pantog ko. Let me cum please.”

I didn’t mind what he said and started sucking his hard shaft. Four years have passed and I can see that his size has become bigger. I sucked it inside my mouth, but it just wouldn’t fit no matter how many times I tried.

“Ugh! Shit! Fuck! Yes suck it, mahal. Isagad mo.”
he groaned.

I can feel that he’s getting near so I stopped. I already tasted his sweet precum and I want more. I want him inside me.

Mabilis kong hinubad ang suot kong pajama pants and underwear sa harap niya. I bet that he enjoyed what he was seeing when he gave me a cocky smile. I kissed him again on his lips before I positioned myself on top of him. His thumb shaft is touching my ass. I want to tease him more, so I move my waist on top of him. He’s breathing heavily, and I can see the lust in his eyes.

“Ugh! Shit! Ang s-sakit!”
I moaned when I pushed myself down for his shaft to enter me.

“Please, mahal let me go so I can wipe your tears.”
he sincerely said.

I moved up from sitting on his hard cock and reach for the headboard to untie his wrist. He cupped my face to wipe my tears and kiss me hungrily. Nagulat ako nang bigla niya akong hinawakan sa braso at pinahiga sa kama. He’s now on top of me with a grin on his face.

“Mahal, dapat di mo na ako pinakawalan. You retired from being a model, so I guess I can make you feel tired all day.”
he warned me.

He hold his cock and position himself on my entrance. Napakagat ako ng ibabang labi nang bigla niyang hawakan ang hita ko pataas. He started licking my entrance and it gives me a tingling sensation when he pushed his tongue inside me.

“M-Mahal! Ugh! It tickles hmmm…”
I moaned.

He looked at my eyes while licking my entrance.
“Uhmm… mahal, you taste good.”

He knew I was ready for him when I started to brush my fingers over his scorpion tattoo. He kneeled down below me and held his shaft. I can see that he’s hesitating if he will continue because I’m petite and he’s huge. He might be afraid that I won’t be able to walk after this.

”
Mahal, just put it in.”
I ordered.

Tumango siya at dahan-dahan niyang ipinasok ang matigas niyang sandata sa loob ko. I feel like it’s tearing me inside so I’m pushing him slightly by holding his abs. Nawala ang sakit na aking nararamdaman nang bumilis ang galaw niya. We’re both having a race to catch our breaths. I feel so full inside. He’s giving me hard thrusts and my body is meeting his every move.

“Uhmmm…mahal, I’m coming. Shit!”
he growled while spreading my legs to give him more access.

Napapatingala nalang ako sa bilis ng ulos niya habang hawak ang bedsheet kung saan ako nakahiga. He’s literally banging me like there’s no tomorrow.

“Ahhh!!! Shit! Mahal, ito na…”
he gave me a heads-up before I felt his warm load inside me.

He’s catching his breath after what happened. Nagulat ako nang bigla niya akong buhatin mula sa pagkakahiga ko sa kama. I looked at him curiously and I saw him smirked.

“Let’s clean you up, mahal.”
he mumbled before he started walking towards the bathroom while carrying me.

---

🌈💅

Epilogue

“Pupunta daw ba si Brett, bakit ang tagal niya?”
tanong ni Adrian habang nakatingin sa reflection ko sa vanity table.

I smiled before I answered him.
“Dapat lang, wala akong ka-partner mamaya sa fashion show.”

It’s been 6 months since I got my own clothing brand which is
KEL
Z.
We decided to have a runaway since it’s requested by my family, friends and fans
.
Nakakatuwa na tinulungan ako ng buong
Versace Modelling PH
sa pagma-manage ng stage, seating arrangements for all possible buyers such as businessmen, medias and many influencers. Ang mga models na katrabaho ko noon ay kasama kong rarampa mamaya habang suot ang mga design kong damit.

Yes, I’m now a designer of my own clothing brand. Carlos and I are now together again. Halos hindi na nga kami mapaghiwalay kung wala lang kaming kanya-kanyang trabaho. He became more successful which makes me feel proud as his lover. Nakakalungkot lang dahil mahigit isang buwan na siyang nasa U.S for an infrastructure project. Lagi naman kaming nagvi-videocall pero hindi ako kontento ‘pag di ko siya nakikita sa personal.

Tapos na akong ayusan ng mga makeup artists nung dumating si Brett. Kaagad akong tumayo para salubungin siya. Binigyan naman niya ako ng matamis niyang ngiti nung makita akong palapit.

”
Sorry Ezra, I’m late.”
he said disappointedly.

I nodded at him.
“Ano ka ba? That’s fine. Magbihis ka na dahil malapit nang magsimula.”

Brett never leave my side even after I told him that I’m back with Carlos. He said that he’s happy with me and I know he’s sincere when he said that.
Nagpatuloy pa rin siya sa pagmo-modelling and he is also pursuing acting. I was surprised when I watched his first movie, in which he’s the second male lead opposite a well-known actress. Brett had dated some models and actresses before, but it didn’t work. He’s still single and wants to save a lot before he settles down.

And about my dream house?

Carlos didn’t accept the money I gave him. I decided to use the money to buy more furniture and some appliances. We were living together in my house before he went to the U.S. and helped the other engineers build a house for a successful entrepreneur.

“Hala ghorl, para kang ikakasal sa suot mo!”
malakas na hiyaw ni Levi nung pumunta sila sa backtage bago magsimula ang show.

I am wearing a finely tailored white long sleeve. It’s a vintage shirt with floral design. A fitted pants that matches my wyatt boots. I simply braided my shoulder length hair to match my outfit.

Hinawakan naman ako ni Kyle para iharap sa kanya.
“Ang ganda mo ghorl. Tinawagan mo na ba si Carlos?”

Nagulat ako nang bigla akong kunanan ng picture ni Zein gamit ang phone niya.
“Wag niyo ng tawagan. Sinend ko na yung picture mo, ghorl. Tatawag na yun in 3…2..-”

Biglang tumunog yung cellphone ko at nakita ko ang pangalan ni Carlos na tumatawag. Nakita ko ang nakakalokong tingin ni Terrence habang pinagmamasdan kaming apat.

“Hello mahal, bakit ang tagal mong sagutin?”
Carlos said, sounding sulky.

I swallowed before I answer him.
“Sorry mahal, bakit ka pala napatawag?”

He chuckled.
“Yung picture kasi na sinend ni Zein ang dahilan kung bakit ako napatawag agad. I just wanna say, I love you and I miss you so much. I wish I’m there to support you.”

Kaagad na tumulo ang luha ko nung marinig ko ‘yun sa kanya. I’m sobbing silently dahil ayokong marinig niya. I know he’s busy at ayaw ko namang maka-istorbo. Gusto ko na siyang makita ulit. I want him to see me wearing my designed clothing.

“Oo nga eh, don’t worry naka-live kami sa IG, so makikita mo akong rumampa.”
I told him since I know that he’s worried.

He sighed.
“Sige, babalik na ako sa trabaho. I will always be your number one fan, mahal. Tandaan mo yan. I love you…”
he said before ending the call.

Nagsimula na ang fashion show. Nasa backstage ako at pinapanuod ko sa cellphone ang nangyayare sa labas. Naka-live ang
KELZ RUNAWAY FASHION SHOW
sa Facebook, Youtube and Instagram at meron na itong mahigit 1M viewers. Sa dami ng bansa na napuntahan ko for my fashion show tour ay hindi nakakapagtaka na marami pa rin akong supporters kahit nag-resign na ako. I owe them my success.

Ako na ang susunod na rarampa pero hindi ko mahagilap si Brett. I checked the dressing room pero wala siya doon. Hindi ko na alam ang gagawin ko. Nakakapagtakang wala na ang mga makeup artists at mga staffs sa backstage pagbalik ko galing sa dressing room. I’m shaking and panting heavily.

Hindi pwedeng mag-isa lang akong rarampa dahil kaming dalawa ni Brett ang highlight ng show. And not to mention that my suit and his are supposed to be for male couples. Wala na akong nagawa kundi rumampa mag-isa nung bumalik sa backstage ang mga co-models ko from
Versace Modelling PH.

“And now for the highlight of this fashion show, let’s all welcome the designer of the famous KELZ Clothing Brand- Ezra Gale Carson!!!”
the emcee introduced me.

I took a deep breath in and out before beginning my walk from the backstage area.I straighten my body, especially my shoulders and hips. I smiled when I saw my parents in the center of the crowd while my Rainbow Squad were screaming to show their support. I was stunned for a moment when I saw Brett beside my squad and he was smiling at me from afar. I stood slightly diagonal in front of the cameras and lifted my right arm to touch my hair when I reached the center stage.

“He will not be called as the highest paid model of this generation for nothing.”
rinig kong bulungan ng mga audience.

Nagulat ako nang biglang bumukas ang spotlight mula sa taas at tumutok sa akin ang ilaw, kasabay nun ay ang pagkawala ng ilaw mula sa mga audience. I’m trying to keep my posture balance but lost it when I hear a sweet song on the background.

You were just a dream that I once knew

I never thought I would be right for you

I just can’t compare you with

Anything in this world

You’re all I need to be here with forevermore

I couldn’t help but cry when I heard that song. That’s the themesong of me and Carlos. Madilim ang paligid at hinanap ko siya sa audience seat habang ang lahat ay tahimik. Napahawak ako sa aking bibig nang maamoy ko ang pamilyar na lemon scent na papalapit sa akin. It’s the scent of Carlos. He must be here.

“M-Mahal?!”
sigaw ko habang humihikbi.

“Ahemm!”
sabi ng pamiyar na boses.

Tuluyan nang bumagsak ang aking mga luha nung makita ko siyang nakaluhod sa gilid ko. He’s wearing the clothes that Brett should be wearing. It’s black vintage shirt na may floral design sa gilid ng collar, fitted pants and his oxford shoes.
Napakagat ako ng aking labi nang ilabas niya ang isang singsing mula sa bulsa niya.

“M-Mahal, I’ve been waiting for this moment to come. Ever since the first time I saw you in the U.S, I knew I’d met my match. I’m not a singer pero napakanta mo ako. I’m not follower pero lagi kitang sinusundan, and I’m not model like you pero nag-aral akong rumampa para sa’yo. Mahal, binago mo ako.”

he confessed while trying his best to stop the tears from his eyes to fall.

“Dati akong loko-loko pero napatino mo ako. I worked hard to be successful as you are. And that’s for myself to not feel ashamed once I propose to you. I don’t know what I’m supposed to do if you say “no”, so I’m hoping to hear a-

”

Biglang bumukas ang mga ilaw at nakita ko ang lahat ng mga audience na may hawak na banner at iisa lang ang sinasabi…

”
PLEASE SAY YES

”

Nakita ko ang parents ko na masayang umiiyak. Katabi na rin nila ang Mom ni Carlos na si Madalane Rossett na mukhang napilitan lang pumunta. Syempre ang aking Rainbow Squad na todo cheer habang may mga hawak na rainbow balloons. At si Brett na nakangiti rin para sa akin.

Tumingin ako sa mga mata ni Carlos at kinuha ang singsing na hawak niya. Mabilis ko iyong sinuot kaliwa kong daliri at tinulungan siyang tumayo.

“YES! I’LL BE GLAD TO MARRY YOU ENGR. CARLOS AZAAC ROSSETT!!!”
sigaw ko at mabilis siyang niyakap at hinalikan sa harap ng maraming media habang ang ilaw ng mga camera ang siyang naging saksi ng wagas naming pag-iisa.

“Whaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!”
sigaw ng mga manunuod.

You are always my dream come true. The moment I opened my door to let you in, I already made a vow to never let you go. I can’t wait to fully build myself with the help of you.
E
ngr. Carlos Azaac Rossett

Now signing off,

Ezra Gale Carson

🌈💅

---

-Terrorious

Author’s Note

To all of my Rainbow Squad,

 
 

      Thank you very much for reading the story of Ezra and Carlos which is entitled

Attaining The Unreachable

(Crossing The Line Series 2). This is the second story that I finished and I’m still eager to learn new things and to show more of my story to all of you.

       For the upcoming series to come (Crossing The Line Series 3 and 4), Sana patuloy niyo pa rin akong suportahan. Abangan niyo po ang stories nina Levi at Zein also known as

Rainbow Squad.

I will do my best to make their stories worth it just like Kyle

and Ezra.

      I also want to thank those readers who are helping me to promote my story. For those who voted and recommended my story to their friends and for liking my Tiktok videos to support me. Lagi kong sinasabi ‘to pero sasabihin ko ulit,

please don’t be scared to interact with me.

A simple comment to my story can lighten up my day. It also makes me feel motivated sa pag-iisip ng mga scenes and scenarios.

      Lastly, I hope that you enjoy reading

Attaining The Unreachable

. We made it this far Rainbow Squad! Nakakaiyak hahahaha! And we gained a lot of readers in just a few weeks! Again, thank you so much Rainbow Squad. Also stay safe and drink plenty of water.

Your Rainbow Squad Author,

Terrorious
🌈💅

A.T.U (Special Chapter)

Warning: R-18

While the make-up artists were preparing me, I sat in front of the vanity table, scrolling through my social media accounts. I was running out of patience and needed to finish this as soon as possible.

“Caleb, are you all right there?”
I asked my little baby, who was sitting on the couch with his sketchpad in his hands.

He smiled and gave me a thumbs up.
“I called daddy, but he’s not answering po,”
his lips pouted, on the verge of crying.

Sinenyasan ko ang mga make-up artists na nakapalibot sa akin bago tumayo para lapitan ang anak ko. I bend my knees to match his height. He’s dressed in sky blue longsleeves, slacks, and his favorite spiderman shoes, which Carlos customized from a well-known brand. This was his favorite pair of shoes, I swear.

“He’s probably at work, baby, but he’ll be here before the show starts,”
I wiped his tears and kissed his cheeks, pleased that he blushed.

“Caleb, will wait po,”
saad niya at muling tinuon ang pansin sa kanyang mga drawings sa sketchpad.

I sat beside him, and a smile plastered on my face upon seeing his house design sketches. His dad spoiled him so much that he even bought most of the high-quality art materials since drawing is our son’s hobby.

“Don’t you want to draw a new house design, son? I’ve noticed you’ve been sketching the same design all the time,”
ani ko habang pinagmamasdan ang lahat ng kanyang ginuhit.

He shook his head slowly.
“Caleb, like daddy, wants to be an engineer, and this is the first house I’d like to build just for us, Mommy.”

Ito yata ang unang beses na narinig ko siyang magsabi kung ano ang gusto niya paglaki. It’s been three years since I married Carlos, and the same year Caleb became our son. We met him before in the orphanage, and he wasn’t talking at that time. Caleb was still a baby when he was abandoned in front of their door, according to welfare. He was wrapped in a white towel and nearly died from the cold.

Kinulong ko siya sa aking mga braso at napaiyak sa tuwa.
“Yes, son, we will be there to support you; you will become a great engineer like your dad.”

“I love you po, Mommy,”
He uttered after kissing my cheeks.

Nang matapos akong make-up-an ay tahimik kong pinagmamasdan ang aking sarili sa salamin. Today is KELZ’s third anniversary, and I decided to commemorate the occasion with a runway fashion show. I couldn’t believe how I got here, and I’m grateful to everyone who helped me.

“Ezra?”

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko nang makita ang repleksyon nina Brett and Rhia na magkahawak kamay sa likod ko. I recall them declining my request to come on the show due to their hectic schedules. Brett is still a model for Moore’s, and Rhia is also a model, but she works for Versace PH; they are now a couple.

“Kumusta? I missed you both,”
naiiyak kong pahayag nang lumapit ako sa kanila.

Bumeso sa akin si Rhia.
“Na-miss rin ka rin namin, Ezra. Alam mo bang pinabalik ko pa ‘tong si Brett dito sa Pinas para lang sa fashion show mo?”

“Really?”
I asked, averting my gaze from Brett.
“Thank you so much for accommodating my request for you guys to be here.”

“There’s no need to thank us, Ezra. Aside from seeing your clothing brand fashion show, I’d also like to meet your little one. Where is he?”
Brett scanned the dressing room.

“Caleb is with my friends, and they must be on the lounge waiting for his daddy.”

After they left the dressing room, I asked my assistants to direct them to their seats. I’m starting to get irritated because Carlos isn’t returning my calls. He’s been working on a project for the past six months, so I know he’s busy.

Hindi ko lang maiwasang magtampo dahil abala rin naman ang lahat ng kaibigan ko, pero nagawa pa rin nilang pumunta.

“Ghorl, okay ka lang?”
When Levi noticed me massaging my temples in front of the vanity mirror, he inquired, concerned.

I gave a wry smile.
“Yeah, okay lang ako.”

“Tapos na yung first batch na models, hindi ka pa ba magbibihis?”
Tanong ni Kyle habang tinatapik ang aking balikat.

“Nasaan pala si Caleb?”
pag-iiba ko ng usapan.

“Nakaupo na rin sa labas kasama si Zein,”
sagot ni Kyle.

My lips pouted.
“W-wala pa rin ba siya?”

After they confirmed Carlos’s absence, I lowered my head. Sinaklob ko ang aking mukha gamit ang dalawa kong kamay. Nang yakapin ako nina Kyle at Levi ay doon na ako umiyak.

“I… actually have a way to make him rush here and leave his work. Don’t try to resist because nothing should be more important to Carlos than you, Ezra,”
Levi grabbed my wrist and yanked me up.

Sinunod ko nalang ang plano ni Levi kahit walang kasiguraduhang magiging matagumpay ito.

Bumungad sa akin ang gulat na mukha nina Kyle at Levi nung lumabas ako mula sa fitting room. I am wearing a black sexy out wrap hem dress na may hati sa bandang tiyan. Kitang-kita ang kurba ng aking bewang dahil sobrang hapit nito sa aking katawan. My platinum blonde hair is now below my shoulders, so I don’t even need to wear a wig. I haven’t had my hair cut in a long time, and I’m glad I haven’t.

“Perfect!”
they both chirped in unison before taking a picture of me.

When I felt uneasy, I reached for the black stiletto on my foot. I haven’t worn female clothing in a few years, so it feels strange to me. Kasalukuyan akong nasa backstage at pinapanuod ang malaking screen para makita ang kaganapan sa labas. Maliban kay Carlos ay kumpleto na ang lahat ng inaasahan ko. Narito ang pamilya ko, ang Rainbow Squad, at ang ilan kong mga kaibigan sa industriya ng pagmo-
modelo.

“Now, for the most anticipated part of the show, let’s give it up for Ezra Gale Carson-Rossett!”
Mr. Alvarez, who was my host tonight, said it on the microphone.

Kasabay ng paglabas ko ng backstage ay ang pagtunog nang nakakaakit na musika. My eyes widen as I see the man I’m waiting for enter the venue wearing a long-sleeved button-up shirt that is tucked into his black pants. Because his safety helmet was still on his head, he must have rushed here.

Levi, you never disappoint!

Sa kanya nakasentro ang mga mata ko nang taas noo akong rumampa sa stage. Para niya akong kakainin ng buhay pero hindi ko na iyon pinansin. Umigting ang kanyang panga matapos kong bigyan nang matamis na ngiti ang ilang kalalakihan na dumalo.

To enrage him even more, I slowly turned my back on the audience to show off my bare back, which was exposed due to the way I designed this dress. After I winked at him and sucked my lower lip, I noticed Carlos gulped.

Nang lumakad ako pabalik ng backstage ay doon ko lang narinig ang masigabong hiyawan ng mga manunuod. I’m unaware that my charisma can render them all speechless. My hands were clasped together, trying to stay steady until I felt a chill run through my body.

“C-Carlos, what are you doing here?”
utal kong tanong nang makita ko siyang nakaupo sa couch ng fitting room, kuyom ang kamao.

He got to his feet and closed the distance between us.
“You’re upset with me, aren’t you?”

“How did you know?”
I asked back, my gaze fixed on his hazel eyes.

Napasinghap ako nang lumapit ang kanyang mukha sa aking leeg.
“Because you didn’t call me

Mahal

and…”
he then fiddled with the strap of my dress.
“you’re wearing revealing clothes in front of a lot of people, even though I forbid you to.”

“Stop it, Carlos,”
I raised my voice a little, trying to hide the temptation I was feeling.

Hindi man lang siya natinag at mas nilapit ang aking katawan sa kanya.
“I just finished building a house for my important client, Mahal. Is it okay if… I work you out as well, hmmm?”

“Carlos, s-stop. The other models will use this room after the show,”
I muttered under my breath.

Kumapit ako sa kanyang malapad na balikat nang pisilin niya ang puwetan ko.
“Then we’ll get it done quickly before they come in.”

Isinandal niya ako sa pinto at nang mai-lock iyon ay binuhat niya ako nang walang kahirap-hirap. While my arms were around his neck, his hands gripped my legs tightly to keep me from falling. As he carried me, I removed his safety helmet and combed his hair with my fingers.

“I love you, I love you, I love you,”
paulit-ulit niyang bigkas at nang maingayan ako, ay siniil ko siya ng halik.

“Ahh,”
impit kong ungol nung sipsipin niya ang aking dila.

Mas lumalim ang aming halik at halos maubusan na ako ng hininga. Ibinaba niya ako sa tapat ng malaking closet at pinaulanan ng mapusok na halik sa labi pababa sa aking leeg. He looked me in the eyes and lifted my chin.

“Mahal, I wonder what your red lips look like if you suck my dick,”
he dared.

Tumawa ako nang nakakaloko bago lumuhod sa harap niya. When I saw his hard bulge under his pants, my mouth formed an o shape. I gave him an enticing grin before slowly unzipping it, allowing him to caress my head. After successfully pulling down his pants and revealing his 8-inch hard cock, which slapped my face, I let out a gasp.

“Oh, shit!”
impit niyang ungol matapos kong dilaan ang ulo ng kanyang namimintig na alaga.

For some reason, even his pre cum tastes like lemon to me, which makes me want to taste him even more. Nilakihan ko ang buka ng aking bibig habang dahan-dahan kong sinusubo ang kanyang sandata. Hindi pa man ako nangangalahati ay naduduwal na ako gaya noon. Masyado siyang malaki para sa akin.

My saliva is dripping from my mouth as I continue to blow him up. When he noticed my hair was blocking my vision, he tied it into a messy bun. I lusciously stared at him as I licked his balls all the way up to his cock’s tip.

“Fuck! You’re so good at this, Mahal,”
he grumbled.

Nang akmang lalabasan na siya ay bigla niya akong pinatayo at muling hinalikan sa labi. I take advantage of the opportunity to remove his top. After seeing his ripped chest and abs, I bit his lip. My husband is a full course meal, and I’m fucking starving.

Tumigil ako sa paghinga nung buksan niya ang closet sa aking likod at patuwarin ako doon. Bumungad sa akin ang napakaraming pambabaeng damit na ako rin ang nagdisenyo. When Carlos purposefully slapped my ass, I let out a gasp.

“Stay in that position, and we will not end this until you find a decent outfit inside that closet, and I will fuck you until then,”
he said as he lowered himself.

Kumapit ako sa samut-saring mga damit nung itaas niya ang dress na suot ko. Kagat ko ang aking labi para pigilan ang pag-ungol nang ibaba niya ang aking underwear at mabilis na dinilaan ang aking lagusan.

“Mahal, try to find a decent cloth now,”
he advised before his hard tongue pierced my core.

Ang isa kong kamay ay nakakapit sa uwang ng closet habang ang isa’y gamit ko para maghanap nang maayos na damit. I was trying to concentrate on the pile of clothes in front of me when I felt Carlos’s long finger enter me. My legs tremble as he thrusts me hard.

Napasigaw ako sa sarap,
“Aughh!”

“You like that, Mahal? You’ll like this even more,”
he warned before slowly inserting his steel hard cock into me.

“Ahh,”
tiim bagang kong ungol nang maipasok niya itong buo sa akin.

Mahigpit siyang kumapit sa aking maliit na bewang para mas ibaon ang kanyang sarili sa akin. Sweat began to drip from my forehead as he began to slam me hard. Nanatili akong nakatuwad kaya’t ramdam na randam ko ang kahabaan niya sa loob ko. Mas binilisan niya pa ang pag-ulos dahilan para mahulog ang ilang damit sa lapag.

When I noticed a white longsleeved plaid shirt on the floor, my brow furrowed. That has to be good enough to replace the dress I’m wearing. I was about to reach for it when Carlos tightened his grip on my hips and slammed his cock harder.

“Mahal, please let me cum,”
he begged, so I stopped what I was doing.

He gave me five hard thrusts before pulling out his cock and cumming on my back. His juices are warm as they touch my skin. Nasalo agad ako Carlos bago pa ako tuluyang mahulog sa sahig. Pakiramdam ko’y mas napagod ako sa ginawa namin kesa sa mahigit isang linggo kong paghahanda para sa fashion show na ito.

“Mommy! Daddy!”
boses iyon ni Caleb na kumakatok sa pinto.

Carlos kissed my lips before changing my clothes into the longsleeves I saw earlier. He made me sit on the sofa while he cleaned up the mess we’d made and then opened the door for our son.

Binuhat agad ni Carlos ang aming anak at binigyan ako nang nakakalokong ngiti. Nung pumasok sila Kyle, Levi at Zein ay agad akong tumayo para salubungin sila. Levi wiggled his brows playfully after sniffing the air, just as I expected. Meanwhile, Kyle and Zein were having fun with Caleb.

Pakiramdam ko’y kahit papaano ay nawala ang pagod ko nang malaman kong naging successful ang KELZ Fashion Show. Nagkaroon ng after party pero hindi na rin kami nagtagal dahil inaantok na si Caleb. Pinasalamatan ko muna ang lahat ng dumalo bago pumasok sa Lexus Car ni Carlos para makauwi na sa wakas.

“You’ve already passed by our house, Mahal,”
saad ko habang nakatingin sa daan.

“I know, Mahal, I’ll take you with our son to a special place,”
Carlos said with a smile.

Tumango nalang ako. Mula sa rear-view mirror ay nakita ko si Caleb na yakap ang kanyang sketchpad, nilalabanan ang antok. Pahikab-hikab ito sa buong byahe. Maya-maya pa’y tumigil ang sasakyan ni Carlos sa isang pamilyar na bahay. Hindi ko pa man ito nasisilayang maigi ay agad na akong napaiyak.

Carlos stepped out of the driver’s seat and unlocked the car door for me. He kissed my lips shortly before opening the passenger seat door and carrying our son. Pupungay-pungay pa ang mga mata ni Caleb pero nanlaki iyon nang makita ang bahay na nasa harapan namin.

“D-daddy, isn’t that…”
Caleb’s eyes welled up as he pointed to the house in front of him.

It’s a modern 2-storey log cabin house.
It has a paned wooden exterior with smooth grooves on the roof and perpendicular grooves in the body. The house was very cozy, and I liked how the large, open-framed windows take advantage of the rural setting, while glass railings provide a comfortable seat in an outdoor pod.

Carlos kissed the top of Caleb’s head.
“Yes, son, dad has been very busy for the past six months because I built the house you drew. Did you like it?”

“Yes, very much so! Caleb will now live here with Mommy and Daddy!”

masigla niyang wika bago kami yakapin ng kanyang ama.

In life, I’ve learned that nothing is impossible for those who work hard for it. Even the unreachable can be attained with love and perseverance.

Attaining The Unreachable

by: Terrorious

🌈💅