Prologue

“The latest bid is at $500,000. Kindly raise your hand if someone can buy it for $600,000?”
The ringman asked while pointing to the painting of a well-known artist. 

I was invited here at World Auction Records in the U.S as one of the finest Art Dealer who will represent the Philippines. Maraming dumalong painters, medias at mga possible buyers galing sa iba’t-ibang bansa. Ako na ang susunod na tatawagin sa stage kaya hindi ako mapalagay sa sobrang kaba.

“No hands higher from $500,000? Alright then, The Last Curse painting of Mr. Charlie Harrison has been sold for $500,000. Please give him a round of applause!”
masayang bati ng ringman bago isara ang bid.

Nagpalakpakan naman ang lahat. Lumakad sa stage ang isang matandang babae na bumili ng painting at nag-picture sila ni Mr. Harrison na siyang lumikha ng The Last Curse painting.

$500,000 is the highest bid so far among all of the paintings that were sold this evening. Pawis na aking mga kamay sa takot na baka walang bumili ng painting ko. I became an artist after I graduated from college 4 years ago. Nagsimula akong photographer sa isang multimedia agency sa Pilipinas until I decided to focus on painting.

The ringman smiled at me.
“Next we have Embracing From Grief painting of Levi Miles Sullivan from the Philippines!”

My painting flashed on the screen’s monitor. I saw the audience’s shocked faces in awe.

Embracing From Grief is my first abstract painting and it’s about myself embracing all of my scars from my past. Sa unang tingin ay para lamang itong tinapunan ng itim at pulang pintura pero kung titingnang maigi, isa itong tao na nakayakap sa kanyang mga tuhod at duguan ang kanyang paligid.

Tumayo ako mula sa vip seat at umakyat ng stage. Napansin ko ang malagkit na tingin sa akin ng ilang kalalakihan pero hindi ko na ito pinansin. I’m just wishing for someone to buy my first ever painting even at the lowest price. I’m the painter who will represent the Philippines and I don’t want to disappoint my fellow countrymen.

The ringman cleared his throat.
“A-Alright, Mr. Sullivan finished this abstract painting a year ago. He’s a multi-media artist and started his career 4 years ago. Now he’s one of the most famous painters of this generation.”

Nagpalakpakan ang lahat ng mga audience at nginitian ko naman sila nang pilit. I may be outrageous, but I don’t want to be exposed with a lot of people.

“Let’s start with $100,000, everyone?”
the ringman started the bid.

Maraming nagtaasan ng kanilang kamay na siyang ikinatuwa ko. I didn’t expect that a lot of them will like my masterpiece. Nabaling ang aking tingin sa likod nang nagsalita ang isang lalaki.

“I will buy that painting for $10,000,000.”
A man with a deep voice said, using an authoritative tone.

Napatingin ang lahat sa likuran kung saan nanggaling ang baritong boses. His voice sounds familiar, but I can’t remember when I heard it.

The man from the back was wearing a Charcoal Gray suit. I can’t clearly see his face because of the Dollger Sunglasses and Hamburg Hat that he’s wearing. I saw him smirked when he met my eyes.

Napakagat ako ng labi dahil may naalala ako sa ngisi niya pero malabong siya itong nasa harap ko. I just shook my head to forget about the thoughts that I’m having.

“Wow! That’s the highest bid that we have so far. Any other hands higher than $10,000,000?”
the ringman exclaimed.

Nanlaki ang mata ko nung may matandang lalaki na tumaas ng kanyang kamay.

“$20,000,000 for that world class painting!”
the old man offered.

Mabilis na tumayo ang lalaki sa likod at bumuntong hininga.
“$50,000,000 before I bid $100,000,000.”
The man sounded hot-headed when he said that.

Tumahimik ang lahat nung marinig iyon sa kanya. Bukod sa iyon sa pinakamalaking bid ay napakalalim ng kanyang boses. He must be desperate to buy my painting and he said that it’s special. I’m really hoping that this man knows the meaning behind my piece.

The ringman broke the silence.
“N-No hands higher than $50,000,000?”

Ilang minuto ang lumipas pero walang buyer na tumaas ng kanilang kamay. Masyado ng malaki ang $50,000,000 o 2 bilyon pesos sa Pilipinas.

Sino ba itong lalaki na may baritong boses na handang magbayad ng dalawang bilyong piso para lang sa painting ko?

He’s a billionaire, and all of the buyers know that. I wonder if he meant what he said earlier that he could go up to $100,000,000 if there’s another buyer who raises their hand.

“Embracing The Grief of Mr. Sullivan has been sold for $50,000,000! P-Please join us in front, sir.”
The ringman closed the bid.

Lumakad papuntang stage ang lalaki na bumili ng painting ko sa pinakamalaking halaga. I noticed that he’s really tall and he had light stubbles on his chin that makes him manlier.

Napaatras ako sa aking kinatatayuan nang lumapit siya sa akin at tinanggal ang suot niyang sunglasses. Parang gusto kong tumakbo palayo sa kanya pero wala na akong nagawa nang magsalita ang ringman.

The ringman cleared his throat.
“May I ask the name of our highest bidder for tonight?”

The guy beside me licked his lower lip and smiled.
“Yadiel Kristoff Romero is my name, nice to meet you.”
he introduced himself proudly while looking at my eyes.

I can’t believe that my suspicion is correct.

It’s impossible that the man who bought my painting is the same man who left me 3 years ago. 

 

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-1 (SPG)

Warning: This chapter contains rape and violence that may not be suitable for others.

Levi’s Pov

I was busy sketching when someone opened the door to my bedroom. Uncle Marvin entered my room. I turned my face to him when I smelled his alcohol scent. He was drunk and I saw the lust in his eyes when he looked at me.

Napatayo ako sa aking upuan dahil hindi ko nagugustuhan kung paano niya ako tingnan. Dali-dali akong tumakbo palabas ng kwarto pero hinawakan niya nang mahigpit ang palapulsuhan ko.

Lumingon ako sa kanya.

“T-Tito, baka h-hinahanap na po ako ni mama sa sala…”

I said with my trembling voice.

He bit his lower lip and breathe heavily.

“Umalis saglit ang mama mo Levi, kaya kami lang na mga bisita ang nasa bahay niyo ngayon…”

Nanginginig ang aking mga tuhod at gusto kong sumigaw pero hindi ko magawa nung nakita ko ang kutsilyo na nilabas niya mula sa kanyang bulsa.

“T-Tito, maawa po kayo sa ‘kin-”

Uncle Marvin cutted me off.

“Hindi kita sasaktan Levi, basta gawin mo ang gusto ko…hmmm?”

he whispered while looking at my lips.

Napalingon ako sa kanya nang makita kong ni-lock niya ang pinto ng kwarto ko. Maingay sa labas dahil pasko at ngayon ang noche buena sa aming bahay. My mom invited some of our relatives and neighbors. The loud christmas songs filled the dining room on our first floor.

Hindi ako makahinga nang bigla akong sakalin ni Tito Marvin sa leeg at ibalibag ako sa aking kama. Halos lahat yata ng santo ay natawag ko na nung mga oras na iyon. Humihiling ako na sana’y may kumatok sa pinto para matigil ang karumal-dumal na gagawin ni Tito Marvin.

Uncle Marvin unbuckled his pants belt using his left hand while he was pointing the knife at me with his right hand.

Tumulo na ng tuluyan ang mga luhang kanina ko pa pinipigilan.

He smiled evilly.

“Wag mo ng subukang lumaban Levi kung ayaw mong ang mama mo ang patayin ko.”

he warned me.

Itinali niya ang aking mga kamay gamit ang sinturon ng kanyang pantalon. Namilipit ako sa sakit nang maramdamang mahigpit ang pagkakatali nun sa palapulsuhan ko. Napadaing ako ng lumagapak ang kanyang kamay sa mukha ko. Pumikit ako nang madiin

sa sobrang sakit ng pagkakasampal niya sa pisngi ko.

He cupped my face tightly.

“Open your eyes Levi and look at your uncle do his thing.”

Napatingin ako sa direksyon niya at nagulat nung makita siyang wala ng suot na pantalon. He quickly took off his white brief while biting his lip in front of me. Kumuha ako ng lakas para tumayo sa kama at tumakbo habang nakagapos ang aking mga kamay pero napatigil ako nang bigla niya akong suntukin sa tiyan.

I slowly let myself fall onto the bed because of the pain that I was feeling.

I cried helplessly and just wanted for him to stop.

He groaned.

“Kutsilyo na ang susunod na tatama sa’yo kapag subukan mo pang tumakas.”

He put his brief inside my mouth to stop me from making any noise. I was panting and sobbing. Nanginginig ang buong katawan ko nung makita ko ang kahabaan niya.

My Uncle Marvin is my dad’s brother. He’s German, but thanks to his Filipino wife, he can also communicate in Filipino. He’s also part of the navy, along with my dad.

Hiwalay na si mama at si papa pero bumibisita pa rin sa amin si Tito Marvin tuwing pasko at lagi akong nagkukulong sa aking kwarto kapag nandyan siya.

Hindi ko kasi nagugustuhan kung paano niya ako tingnan kaya lumalayo ako sa kanya. At ngayong gabi ay alam ko na kung bakit ganon ang mga titig niya.

A lone tear fell from my eyes when Uncle Marvin took off my shorts and underwear. Hinawakan niya ang braso ko at pinadapa niya ako sa aking kama. I was screaming on my mind when he pushed his finger inside my entrance. Mas lalo akong napadaing nang maramdaman ang tatlo niyang daliri na walang pag-aalinlangan niyang pinasok sa akin. I felt vulnerable and weak.

“I think you’re now ready for me hmmm…”

I tilted my head when he pushed his shaft inside me. It feels like I’m being torn and stretched. Mas lalong sumakit ang aking pakiramdam nung bumilis ang kanyang paggalaw.

“Mama, tulungan mo ako!”

Iyan ang sigaw ng aking utak habang patuloy ang aking pag-iyak.

“Ugh! Shit, Levi let me take you to heaven. Fuck! Fuck!”

h

e cursed while thrusting me hard.

He’s holding the knife with his right arm, and it’s aimed for my nape.

I couldn’t move. I’m afraid that Uncle Marvin might stab me with his knife.

Siguro’y manhid na ang katawan ko sa mabilis niyang pag-ulos kaya nakaramdam ako ng panghihina nung siya’y makaraos. He filled my ass with his warm load. Umalis siya sa pagkakadagan sa akin nang makita akong mahina at wala ng laban. He untied my hands and take out his brief inside my mouth.

Nakadapa pa rin ako sa kama at wala na akong lakas para tingnan siya. I was raped, molested and tortured by my own uncle.

“Merry Christmas, Levi. See you next christmas again.”

he warned me

before he left he naked and hanging.

---

“Hey, babe gising! Babe! Please gumising ka!”
sigaw ni Lucas habang inaalog ang balikat ko.

Kinusot ko ang aking mata at naramdaman ang aking mga luha matapos ang bangungot ng nakaraan. I was only 7 that time when Uncle Marvin took my innocence.

Hindi ko sinabi kay mama, Lavinia o kahit sa Rainbow Squad ang aking pinagdaanan. Hindi ko alam kung anong naramdaman ko nung malaman kong pumanaw si Tito Marvin 5 years ago. Para akong isang ibon na nakawala sa hawla matapos ang ilang taong pagkaka-kulong.

I rolled my eyes at Lucas.
“Bakit ka ba nandito sa unit ko?! Di’ba sabi ko sa ‘yo, tapos na tayo?”

Nakita ko ang pagkadismaya sa mukha ni Lucas.
“B-Babe, bakit ka ba ganyan? Ginalingan ko naman kagabi di’ba? Please, wag mo naman akong hiwalayan.”
pagsusumamo niya.

Bumangon ako sa pagkakahiga at binalot ang hubad kong katawan ng comforter.
“You know my motto right? Pag tapos na, wala ng balikan. Bakit ba ang kulit mo!?”

Ito kasi ang mahirap sa mga marurupok na lalaki, hindi nila matanggap ang ibig sabihin ng salitang ‘tapos na’. I admit that he’s good in bed pero ayoko ng maingay. I don’t like his high-pitched voice when he’s moaning. Nakakarindi sa tenga. Madami na akong naging karelasyon pero wala yatang tumagal ng isang buwan. I’m the one who’s breaking up with them most of the time.

Wanna know the reasons?

Well, hindi naman ganon kaseryoso. It’s either sadista sila or nagsasawa lang ako sa kanila. Simula nung grumaduate ako sa UP College of Fine Arts a year ago, hindi ko na mabilang kung ilan na ang mga naging karelasyon ko. Matapos ang ginawa sa akin ni Tito Marvin na krimen, gusto kong humanap ng taong magmamahal sa akin at kaya akong protektahan.

Unfortunately, among all of the guys I’ve dated before, no one made me feel that way.

They only wanted me in bed because I made them happy. I’m at the bottom, but I’m on top of my game. Sa dami ko ng naging ex boyfriends, hindi ko na din mabilang ang mga nagmakaawa sa akin para balikan ko sila.

Well, I couldn’t blame them, I’m Levi Miles Sullivan after all.

The epitome of greatness in bed.

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-2

Matapos ang matagal naming bangayan ni Lucas ay umalis na rin siya sa wakas sa unit ko. Ever since I graduated from college last year, I decided to move into this condo in Makati that’s near to my work. Mas convenient kasi dahil sa Tagaytay pa ang bahay namin. I grasp my head hoping it could lessen the stress I’m feeling. I took a deep breath and get off from my bed.

Mabilis akong naligo at nagbihis para pumunta sa Lens Media Studio. I’ve been working with that company for a year now as a Fine Art Photographer. Hindi gaano kalaki ang sweldo pero sagot naman ng kompanya ang travel fees kapag naglilibot ako sa ibang bansa para makakuha ng litrato.

Sumakay ako ng taxi dahil late na ako. I’m trying to call my manager, but she’s not answering the phone. She will scold me for sure since the meeting will start at 10 am and I’m now 15 minutes late.

“Levi, buti naalala mong may urgent meeting tayo?”
Mrs. Llanera sarcastically said. She’s sitting in her swivel chair while sipping on her coffee.

Mrs. Llanera has been my manager here at Lens Media Studio since I started working. She was actually nice before, but she changed after her husband cheated on her.

Umupo ako nang mabilis sa vacant chair na nasa harap ng table niya at nilabas ang envelope na may lamang photos na nakuhanan ko last week sa Baguio.

“S-Sorry for being late, Mrs. Llanera. These are the photos that I took last week.”
hinihingal kong wika at inabot ang envelope sa kanya.

She opened it and I saw how her lips formed a smile.
“Well, I liked how you captured these photos. I’ve seen a lot of young photographers before, but there’s something about your style that stands out from the others.”

I wiped the sweat from my forehead and sighed in relief.
“Thank you so much, Mrs. Llanera. That means a lot to me.”

My shoulders quivered when someone opened the door. Pumasok ang isang lalaki sa opisina ni Mrs. Llanera at mukhang nagmamadali dahil pawis din ito kagaya ko. Nakita ko ang pagkamangha sa kanyang mukha nang makita ako.

He combed his hair upwards and sat beside the seat of Mrs. Llanera. It’s been a long time since I worked here, but this is the first time that I’ve seen this guy.

Mrs. Llanera tapped the shoulder of the guy before she speak.
“Levi, this is my son Tom. He just graduated in Fine Arts this year and he wants to work here. I would like you to guide him from now on.”

Tom genuinely smiled at me and offered his right hand. Inabot ko naman agad iyon at nagpakilala.

“Hi Tom, I’m Levi Miles Sullivan. Please call me by my first name.”

He pursed his lips.
“N-Nice to meet you, Levi.”

I didn’t like the way he looked at me, so I let go of his hand quickly. I’m not aware that Mrs. Llanera had a son who’s around my age since she doesn’t tell anyone about her personal life.

“Levi, you and my son will go to Japan for a week to take pictures for the upcoming exhibit. This trip will be paid by our company, so make sure to do your best.”
pagbasag ni Mrs. Llanera sa katahimikan.

My lips parted in shock. Japan is my dream destination, but I don’t want to spend it with a pervert stranger. Yes, this Tom in front of me is a hundred percent pervert. I can easily read what’s running on his mind while looking at me.

“Kailan po ang alis namin?”
I asked curiously.

Tom answered on his mom’s behalf.
“Bukas agad, Levi!”
he excitedly said.

Mrs. Llanera nodded.
“Tomorrow is your flight. The exhibit will be held next month so we need to get it rushed.”

Wala na akong choice kundi ang sumang-ayon. Mrs. Llanera is my boss so I need to obey her orders. Pagkatapos ng aming meeting ay bumaba na ako sa ground floor ng Lens Media Studio. Tinaas ko ang aking kaliwang kamay para pumara ng taxi nang bigla akong makarinig ng busina ng sasakyan.

“Levi, sakay ka na sa ‘kin!”
sigaw ng pamilyar na boses.

I crossed my arms and turned my face at Tom. Nakababa ang bintana ng kotse niya at kumakaway siya sa akin.

Stress na naman.

Katatapos ko lang kay Lucas, si Tom naman ngayon.

“Tom, wag na. Malapit lang naman yung condo ko.”
I declined him as nice as I can.

Parang gusto ko ng magdabog nang bigla siyang lumabas ng kotse niya at lumapit sa akin. Binigyan ko naman siya ng pilit na ngiti.

Kung hindi ka lang anak ng boss ko, hindi kita papansinin.

“Isasabay na kita, binilin ka sa ‘kin ni mommy.”
he wiggled his brows, trying to send me flirty signals.

Nakayukom ang aking palad nung sumakay ako sa passenger seat ng kotse niya. He offered to drive me, so I guess he can perform his driver duty. Nakita ko ang pagbuntong hininga niya habang tinitingnan ako sa rear-view mirror.

Pinagpapasalamat kong tahimik si Tom habang nagmamaneho dahil ayoko rin siyang kausapin. Masungit ako, and I get that a lot. Maraming nagsasabing hindi daw ako approachable maliban nalang kung nasa bar o club ako kaya wala ako masyadong kaibigan. Mabuti nalang at nakilala ko ang Rainbow Squad nung highschool at kontento na ako sa kanila.

“Anong oras pala ang alis natin bukas, Tom?”
tanong ko nang tumigil kami sa tapat ng condo ko.

Inalis niya ang kanyang seatbelt at humarap sa akin.
“11 am, Levi. Susunduin nalang kita dito sa labas ng condo mo bukas.”

“Gusto mo ba ako?”
I asked him directly. Pranka akong tao at ayoko ng paligoy-ligoy sa lahat.

His lips parted in awe after hearing me.
“Oo, gusto kita. Bakit may magagalit ba?”

My forehead creased.
“Oo, may magagalit!”

“S-Sino?”
he asked nervously.

I pointed at myself.
“Ako. Ako ang magagalit sa ‘yo kaya wag mo akong subuan—este subukan.”

He chuckled.
“Sige, hindi muna kita susubuan.”

Tanginang dila to, pasmado.

Bumaba ako sa sasakyan ni Tom nang hindi nagpapaalam. I can’t believe that I will embarrass myself in front of him. Mabilis akong pumasok ng condo at hindi pinansin ang pagtawag niya sa pangalan ko.

Sigurado akong hindi ako mag-eenjoy sa Japan lalo na’t kasama ko siya.

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-3

I grabbed my phone from the side table of my bed to call my aunt. Si Tita Macy ang nagbabantay sa kapatid kong si Lavinia dahil nagta-trabaho sa Qatar si mama. Once a year lang umuwi si mama ng Pilipinas at hindi rin naman nagtatagal at babalik ulit sa ibang bansa. My mom is a caregiver and she’s been working in a health care center in Qatar for about 3 years now.

“Ate Levi, hello po!”
masayang bungad ni Lavinia pagsagot ng tawag.

I chuckled when I heard my little sister called me “Ate”. Hindi ko naman siya pipigilan kung tatawagin niya akong “Kuya” pero mukha daw kasi akong babae kaya ate ang tawag niya sa akin.

“How are you, Vinia? Where’s Aunt Macy?”

I can hear her chewing something. She must be eating sweets.
“Okay lang po ako, ate. Namalengke po shi Tita Meyshi.”

Lavinia is now 5 years old pero bulol pa rin siya sa “s”. Balak ko siyang dalhin dito sa Makati para makapag-aral dahil alam kong busy din si Tita Macy sa mga anak niya. Pinipilit kong isama si Lavinia noong lumipat ako dito sa Makati pero ayaw niyang pumayag. Masaya daw siya kasama ang mga anak ni Tita Macy na kaedad niya din.

“A-Aalis si Ate Levi papuntang Japan. I promise na kapag may bumili ng pictures ko sa darating na exhibit, susunduin na kita dyan kila Tita Macy. Sasama ka ba sa akin, Vinia?”
I’m trying to match her pace so she would understand.

“O-Okay po, ate. M-Mag-aaral na po ba ako?”

Napakagat ako sa aking labi para pigilan ang pag-iyak. Bata pa naman si Lavinia pero madalas siyang magtanong kung kailan siya mag-aaral. Hindi din naman ganon kalaki ang kinikita ko sa pagiging isang Fine Art Photographer at itong condo kung saan ako nakatira ay sagot ng kompanya kung saan ako nagta-trabaho.

“Y-Yes, Vinia. Mama and ate will save money for your studies. Mag-aaral ka na…soon.”
I assured her before ending the call.

It’s still early in the morning, so I still have more time. Using my blower, I dried my wet hair. Kakatapos ko lang maligo nung marinig kong tumunog yung cellphone ko. Napangiti ako nang makita ang chat nina Kyle sa group chat namin.

GC Name: Rainbow Squad
🌈💅

@kyle.ateniano:

Levi, wag mo kalimutan yung pasalubong namin. Baka pati chopstick hindi ka makapagdala hmp.

@ezra.g.carson
:
Ingat ka don Levi, tawagan mo kami. Willing kaming maki-update kahit about sa mga magiging flings mo🤣

@zein-garcia:

Levi, kuhanan mo naman ng picture yung Hemiji Castle. Idi-display ko lang sa kwarto ko. Lamats!

Me:

Noted my ghorls, I will miss you all.

I turned off my phone after that. I combed my hair and let some of the strands covered my forehead. Nag-empake na rin ako ng mga gamit. It’s a week long trip, so I made sure to bring enough clothes.

Alas-9 na ng umaga nung makalabas ako ng condominium. Bumungad sa akin ang Toyota Fortuner ni Tom kaya lumakad ako palapit sa kanya habang hawak ang mabigat kong maleta.

Binuksan ko ang passenger seat door.
“Tom, pasensya na kung kanina ka pa naghintay—”
hindi ko natapos ang sasabihin ko nang makita si Mrs. Llanera na nakaupo sa passenger seat.

She moved closer to the side, so I can have my space. Pinilit kong pagkasyahin ang maleta ko sa loob ng sasakyan dahil wala namang compartment ang kotse ni Tom.

Tom chuckled.
“Ang laki naman ng dala mong maleta, Levi. Isang linggo lang naman tayo doon.”

Napatingin ako sa kanya sa rear-view mirror at ngumiti ng pilit.
“Mas mabuti nang marami kesa kulang.”

Tom started to drive his car. Napapangisi nalang ako habang pinakikinggan silang dalawa ng mommy niyang si Mrs. Llanera na nagbabangayan.

Nakakunot ang noo ni Mrs. Llanera.
“Timothy, bakit kasi hindi ka nagdala ng maraming damit? It’s now autumn season in Japan, wala ka man lang dalang mga jacket!”

Kumamot ng ulo si Tom.
“Mommy, sabi ko sa’yo wag mo akong tawaging Timothy eh! Nakakahiya kay Levi.”

Isinara ni Mrs. Llanera and backpack na dala ni Tom.
“Ano naman ngayon, Timothy? Nahihiya ka dito kay Levi, eh ang ganda kaya ng pangalan mo. Mabuti nga’t hindi namin ginawang Timotheo ang pangalan mo.”

Tom gripped the steering wheel tightly. His eyes are bloodshot and I can visualize his dark aura. He’s now pissed off because of his mom.

Napakagat ako ng aking labi para pigilan ang pagtawa. He’s a mama’s boy and that’s for sure. Maya-maya pa’y nakarating na rin kami sa airport.

Hawak ni Mrs. Llanera sa makisig na braso ni Tom.
“Timothy, lagi kang tatawag sa akin. Ayoko ng manugang na Japanese, kaya don’t forget to wear protection, okay?”

Timothy looks uncomfortable since a lot of passengers are looking at them. Nakapila na kami dito sa airport check-in habang hawak ang aming mga tickets. Natapos lang ang kanilang usapan nang makapasok na kami ni Tom sa loob ng eroplano.

Hawak ko ang aking Canon Camera habang katabi si Tom. Economy class ang seat namin at nasa bandang dulo kami ng eroplano. I was about to take a picture of the view from the plane’s window when a male flight attendant intruded.

“Sir, taking pictures while boarding is not allowed.”

Napatingin naman ako sa attendant na nagsalita at tumango nang pilit. I saw how the male flight attendant swallowed the lump in his throat after seeing my face.

I touched my neck and looked at him intently.
“Sorry, sir. I’ll stop taking pictures.”

Tom rest his arm against my shoulder and it made me shock.
“You can go now, sir. I’m sorry for the trouble.”
he said to the male attendant in a monotone voice.

Tumango nalang ang flight attendant at nag-instruct ng safety procedures sa harapan. Mabilis kong inalis ang pagkaka-akbay sa akin ni Tom at galit siyang tiningnan. Simula nung ginawa sa akin ni Tito Marvin, mabilis na akong magulat kapag biglang may hahawak sa akin ng hindi ko alam. 5 years has passed, but the fear didn’t leave me. I’m suffering from Haphephobia, it’s a type of condition wherein a person is afraid of being touched.

I sighed heavily, trying to calm myself down.
“Kailan pa tayo naging close, para umakbay ka sa ‘kin?”

Amusement is evident on his face.
“Bakit ba ang init ng dugo mo sa ‘kin, Levi? May ginawa ba akong masama?”
he whispered.

Nakita ko ang pagbusangot ng mukha ni Tom kaya humupa ang galit ko. Isa sa mga ayaw kong ugali ng mga naging ex ko ay ang pagiging clingy. I’m fine with simple touches, hugs or kisses as long as it’s private. Naiilang ako kapag maraming nakatingin na tao maliban kung lasing ako dahil ibang usapan na ‘yon.

“Sorry, Tom. Ayoko lang ng may humahawak sa akin nang hindi ako aware.”
I said sounding apologetic.

“So, I should have your permission first? Okay, noted.”
he teased.

After 4 hours, we already departed in Japan. Pagkalabas namin ng airport ay ramdam ko na ang lamig. Hindi na ako umalma nung kunin ni Tom ang maleta ko dahil wala naman siyang dala bukod sa backpack niya.

I’m not convinced when Tom said that her mom booked only one hotel room for the two of us since we’re lacking in budget. Very modern naman ang interior ng room kung saan kami naka-check in. White and brown ang theme at dilaw ang lighting.

“Levi, saan pala tayo pupunta bukas para mag-take ng pictures?”
he mumbled while unpacking his things.

I pouted my lips while thinking.
“My friend suggested to go to Hemiji Castle.”

Tom nodded.
“Sige, gusto ko ring pumunta doon, eh. Maganda ang scenery para gumawa ng memories together.”

Napailing nalang ako habang pinagmamasdan siyang nahihirapan sa pagsalansan ng kanyang damit sa closet. Tom and his cringy punch lines made my head hurt from stress. 
Kinuha ko ang remote at binuksan ang tv para manuod ng kung anong makapaglilibang sa akin.

Japan is one of my dream destinations, but I guess I won’t enjoy my first time here. I really hope something memorable will happen.

 

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-4

Nagising ako nung makaramdam na may nakatitig sa akin. My senses are strong and it gives me chills when someone is looking at me without my notice. I rolled my eyes when I saw Tom beside me on top of the bed.

“Good morning, Levi! Mukhang hindi maganda ang gising mo ah?”

Umupo ako mula sa aking pagkakahiga at kinusot ang aking mata.
“Oo, kaya wag kang makulit kung ayaw mong makatikim sa ‘kin!”

I’m wearing an oversized sweater, scarf, jeans and winter boots. Kasalukuyan akong kumukuha ng litrato mula sa bintana ng hotel room namin ni Tom. We’re on 18th floor, so I can see the entire city of Osaka, Japan.

“Levi, let’s go?”

My shoulders shrugged when I heard Tom. He just got out from the shower and he’s wearing a green trench coat on top of his white shirt, beanies, cargo pants and a pair of sport shoes. Lumapit siya sa akin at sinuotan ako ng bonet.

I smiled at him, this time it’s genuine.
“T-Thank you, Tom.”

Nilapit niya ang kanyang mukha sa tenga ko at bumulong.
“Basta ikaw, Levi.”

We rode a train to get to the city of Himeji. Kinukuhanan ko ng litrato ang ibang tao na nakatira dito at mga tanawin na aming nadadaanan. Hindi ako marunong magsalita ng Japanese kaya si Tom ang madalas magtanong sa mga tao patungo sa Himeji Castle.

Nang makarating kami sa aming destinasyon ay napaawang ang aking labi dahil sa ganda ng Himeji Castle. I owe Zein a lot for telling me about this place. The castle had such an elegant appearance. I really liked its white roof and walls, which make it peaceful despite being built a hundred years ago.

Hindi ko inaasahang na mas mamamangha ako sa loob ng castle. It had feudal carvings engraved into its wooden interior, as well as peaceful gardens. Sa sobrang pagkawili ko sa pagkuha ng litrato ay tuluyan na akong naligaw sa castle.

Sinubukan kong balikan ang dinaanan ko kanina pero masyadong malaki ang loob nito. Mas lalo akong kinabahan nung malaman kong hindi ko dala ang cellphone ko dahil hawak ni Tom ang sling bag ko.

Breathe in, breathe out. Kaya mo ‘to, Levi.

Lumingon ako sa paligid pero wala akong makitang tao maliban sa isang matandang lalaki kaya lumapit ako sa kanya.

I tapped his shoulder.
“O-Ohayo Gozaimasu! I’m lost and I can’t find my friend. He’s tall and handsome. He’s wearing a green coat-”

Napatigil ako sa pagsasalita nang bigla niya akong hatakin palapit sa kanya. Nabitawan ko ang aking camera sa sobrang pagkabigla. I started trembling due to my phobia when he caressed my waist and squeezed it hard. Nakita ko ang pagkagat niya sa kanyang ibabang labi habang nakatingin sa akin.

“Anata wa masani watashi no taipudesu.”

(You’re exactly my type.)

he said in a hoarse voice.

Pilit kong tinutulak ang kanyang dibdib pero masyadong mahigpit ang pagkakapit niya sa bewang ko. I’m panting heavily because of the fear that I’m feeling. Limang taon na ang nakalipas mula nung ginawa sa akin iyon ni Tito Marvin pero hanggang ngayon ay takot pa rin ako.

I lone tear fell from my eyes.
“S-Sir, p-please let me g-go. I-I can’t understand you. I-I’m scared.”
I whimpered.

He shook his head.
“Doko ka ni ikimashou hmmm…”

(Let’s go somewhere else)

Bumalik sa aking alaala ang panggagahasa ni Tito Marvin. Wala akong laban noon dahil bata pa ako, pero bakit wala pa rin akong laban ngayon?

Tulong! Tulungan niyo ako pakiusap!

Gusto kong sumigaw pero naunahan na ako ng takot. Pilit kong nilalayo ang aking mukha nung mas lalo niyang idikit ang aming katawan. Napaawang ang aking labi nang tumilapon ang matandang lalaki sa sahig.

“Keikan wa sūbun de koko ni kurudeshou!”

(The cops will be here in a few minutes!)
the man with a Greek-god face bellowed.

I noticed his pair of luminescent eyes, hawkish pointed nose, soft thin lips, and his cleft chin, which made me dreamy. He looks more dominant because of the business suit that he’s wearing.

“Anata wa ugoki o kuso shinaide Matawa watashi wa jibun no ken de anata no kao o keshimasu!”

(Don’t you fucking move or I will erase your entire face with my fist!)

Malakas ang kanyang pagkakasigaw kaya hindi na gumalaw ang matandang lalaki na nakahandusay sa sahig. May sugat din ito sa ibabang labi dahil sa lakas ng suntok ng lalaking tumulong sa ‘kin.

I don’t know what he’s shouting, but the resonance of wedding bells is clear in my ears. I’m now daydreaming about my own wedding while looking at him intently.

Nag-angat siya ng tingin sa akin.
“Hey, okay ka lang? May masakit ba sa ‘yo?

”
he caressed my shoulders.

“Yes, I do.”
I blurted.

He raised a brow.
“P-Pardon?”

Ngayon ko lang na-realize ang sinabi ko. For some reason, the fear left me when I was looking at this man’s eyes. I couldn’t believe that I would feel comforted by just talking to a stranger.

I shook my head.
“I-I mean, yes. I’m okay. Thank you!”

Maya-maya pa’y dumating na ang ilang mga lalaking naka-business suit attire at dinakip ang matandang lalaki na nang-harrass sa akin. Napanatag ang loob ko dahil hindi pa din binibitawan ng lalaking nagligtas sa akin ang aking balikat.

“Levi! Nandito ka lang pala, kanina pa kita hinahanap.”
sigaw ni Tom nung makalapit siya sa akin.

Dahan-dahang inalis ng lalaki ang kamay niya sa aking balikat. Akala ko’y aalis na siya pero nagulat ako nung lumuhod siya sa aking harap para damputin ang basag kong camera.

“Looks like it’s broken. I know a good repair shop here who can fix it.”
he offered.

Tom intruded.
“No, it’s fine bro. We’ll take care of it. Thank you for saving my…friend.”

Tumango nalang ang lalaki at lumakad palayo. Nakita ko kung paano siya umiling at bumuntong hininga.

I couldn’t just waste this moment. I haven’t thanked him for saving me.

“Mr. Stranger, thank you!”
I shouted.

Mabilis siyang lumingon at ngumiti sa akin. I almost passed out when he winked at me before he continued walking.

I hope I can see him again…

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-5

Marami na kaming napuntahan ni Tom na mga tourist attractions dito sa Japan, pero hindi ko na ulit nakita yung lalaking nagligtas sa akin. I’ve already taken a lot of photos, and I was satisfied with the outcome when I checked it. Tomorrow is our flight back to the Philippines, and I’m here in Tokyo Market with Tom to buy some souvenirs. 

“Tom anong mas maganda, ito o ito?”
tanong ko sa kanya habang hawak ang dalawang Japanese Dolls na ibibigay ko kay Zein.

He pointed at my face without hesitation.
“Ito, maganda.”

Napabuntong hininga nalang ako dahil hindi siya maayos kausap kahit kailan. I just bought what I think is good in my eyes.
Bumili ako ng Japanese dolls (Kokeshi) para kay Lavinia at Zein, Japanese Tea for Aunt Macy and Mrs. Llanera, omamoris (lucky charms) for Kyle and Ezra to help them become successful.

Nandito na kami sa airport ni Tom pauwi sa Pilipinas. I wore sunglasses, a white pullover top, fitted jeans, and a pair of chelsea boots. 
Nakasuot sa leeg ko ang aking camera na naayos naman ni Tom dahil pinalitan niya ng lens. I’m trying to capture my last moments here in Japan when I saw the man that I’m looking for.

Nakaupo siya sa waiting seat sa loob ng airport habang kausap ang isang magandang babae. They look like a couple because the girl keeps on hugging his arms and he’s just letting her cling to him. Pauwi na rin siguro sila sa Pilipinas.

Somehow, I kind of feel sad after knowing he has a girlfriend. Sa gwapo niyang mukha ay siguradong lahat ng babae ay sa kanya na mismo lumalapit. Napabaling ang atensyon ko pabalik kay Tom nang magtama ang aming mga mata.

“Hey, the pretty guy with camera!”
sigaw ng babaeng kasama nung lalaking nagligtas sa akin.

I pointed at myself while looking at her curiously.
“Are you calling me?”

Lumapit siya sa akin habang nakangiti nang pilit.
“Can you take a picture of me and my…friend?”

Nagda-dalawang isip akong tumango bilang pagsang-ayon. Mabilis na bumalik ang babae sa kasama niya at tumayo sa harap ko para kuhanan sila ng litrato. Naka-angkla ulit ang kamay ng babae sa braso ng
kaibigan daw
niya.

“One, two…three!”
I counted before I took their photo together.

Kaagad lumapit sa akin yung babae para tingnan yung kuha ko sa kanila. She immediately smiled after seeing the photo.

“Thank you so much! Can you send this to me, please?”
she asked me politely.

I was about to nod when the man who saved me intruded.
“Jazmine, tama na. Marami naman na tayong pictures together,”
he looked at me and gave me a sweet smile.
“Thank you.”

I shrugged when Tom put his hand on my shoulder.
“Halika na, Levi.”

Sumama nalang ako kay Tom papasok ng eroplano at hindi ko na ulit nilingon yung dalawang magkaibigan.
Sa isang linggo naming pananatili ni Tom sa Japan, nalaman kong mabait naman pala siya. I guess I shouldn’t judge a person until I know them better.

Nang makabalik kami sa Pilipinas ay nagpahinga agad ako sa condo ko sa sobrang pagod. I already sent the photos that I took to Mrs. Llanera’s email. Nagpasalamat din ako kay Tom sa paghatid niya sa akin. Masaya naman ako sa naging experience ko sa Japan kahit one week lang. Sobrang nag-enjoy ako sa iba’t-ibang lugar na napuntahan ko at nagpakuha ako ng sarili kong pictures kay Tom for social media purposes.

Nakapunta na ako sa South Korea, China at U.S dati dahil din sa trabaho ko bilang isang Fine Art Photographer. I’m happy with my job because this is my passion, even though the salary is not high enough to save for my own house. 

Among all of my friends, I guess I’m the poorest. Kyle had an issue financially. That’s why he stopped his studies before, but he still had both of his parents to support him. Ezra is a fashion model, so he must be earning a lot, while Zein is an heir to his family, which owned a lot of resorts here in the Philippines. 

A few days after I got back here in the Philippines, I asked my squad to go into the club with me. 

Malapit na rin kasi ang art exhibit at alam kong magiging busy na ako ulit para makapag-hang out. Nabigay ko na kila Kyle yung mga pasalubong ko nung nakaraan kaya wala na akong dala bukod sa maliit kong Tommy Hilfiger bag na may lamang makeup kit.

I’m wearing a black slim tank top, casual blazer, fitted jeans and leather boots. Tinirintas ko naman ang medyo mahaba kong buhok sa gilid at nag-apply din ako ng light makeup. I’m staring at myself in the mirror while admiring my facial features. My dad is an American, so I have white skin, a thin, pointed nose and plump lips. 

I took a picture of myself and posted it on IG, and in just a few minutes, it had already gained thousands of likes.
Binabasa ko ang ilang comments na mostly ay galing din sa mga ex ko.

gavin.chester:
Looking great my señorita🥰

alexander_reyes48:
Levi, I miss you. Kita tayo ulit…

lucas.keano:
Babe, saan punta mo? please reply to my dm.

Hindi ko na pinagpatuloy ang pagbabasa dahil baka abutin pa ako ng madaling araw. Pumara ako ng taxi para pumunta sa club na ni-recommend ko kila Kyle. Alam kong hindi sila mahilig mag-party kaya sinabi kong ako ang bahala sa kanila. I called Ezra, and he said that they were in the club already.

Pinagtinginan ako kaagad ng ilang mga lalaki pagpasok ko sa club. Maingay ang tunog ng music at masakit sa mata ang lighting. Napangiti ako nung makita sila Kyle, Ezra at Zein na nakaupo sa gilid na table. Lumapit ako sa kanila at yumakap.

“Levi, ang tagal mo! Kanina pa namin gustong umuwi!”
malakas na sigaw ni Kyle para marinig ko.

Zein’s forehead creased.
“Oo nga Levi, ang sakit na ng tenga ko. Dapat sa resort nalang namin tayo nag-party, eh.”

Ezra tapped Zein’s shoulder.
“Hayaan mo na, minsan lang naman ‘to. Enjoy nalang tayo.”

Umupo ako sa table nila at umorder ng ilang drinks. Nilapag ko sa table namin ang Alfonso Platinum 1, Smirnoff at The Bar Pink Gins. Nagsimula na kaming uminom habang nagki-kwentuhan nang mapansin ko ang mga lalaki sa kabilang table na kanina pa nakatingin sa amin.

Nakaupo ang apat na mga gwapong lalaki sa lounge chair at ngumiti nang makita akong tumingin sa kanila. My lips parted in shock when I saw a familiar face from one of them. He gave me a wink while sipping on his glass of whiskey.

I swallowed a lump in my throat.

He still looks hot and dominant, just like the last time I saw him in Japan. 

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-6

Binalik ko ang aking tingin sa mga kaibigan ko. Mukhang lasing na sila Kyle dahil paulit-ulit na ang mga kini-kwento nila. Mabilis kong inubos ang natitirang alak sa mesa para tumigil na sila sa pag-inom.

“Ghorls, saan kaya ako pwedeng mag-apply? Mahigit isang buwan na akong nasa bahay, need ko ng tumulong kay daddy sa tuition nila Renz at Steven.”
Kyle asked while pouting.

Zein cupped the face of Kyle.
“Kyle, gusto mo maglinis ng pool namin sa resort? Ako magbabayad sa ‘yo…”

“Sayang naman yung pinag-aralan ni Kyle kung paglilinisin mo lang ng pool, Zein. Mag-apply ka nalang sa mga business company dito sa Makati, Kyle.”
Ezra suggested, feeling drowsy.

“Ghorls, gusto niyo na bang umuwi? Mukhang lasing na kayo. Tatawag na ako ng taxi…”
I asked them worriedly.

Kyle stood up from his seat.
“Hindi pa ako…lasing! Kaya ko pa ang sarili ko.”

I doubt that. For sure isang pitik ko lang sa tatlong ‘to, sa sahig na sila matutulog.

Nanlaki ang mata ko nang magsimulang sumayaw si Kyle sa dance floor at sinundan siya ni Zein. Si Ezra naman ay nakatulog na sa table.

Jusko! Hindi ko na kayo ulit yayayain na pumunta sa mga ganito.

Hinubad ko ang jacket na suot ko at tinakpan ang mukha ni Ezra dahil baka makuhanan siya ng pictures. He’s a fashion model at ayoko namang maging headline siya kinabukasan. Suot ko nalang ang aking black slim tank top nung lumakad ako papuntang dance floor. Nahuli kong may lalaking humahawak sa bewang ni Kyle at may yumayakap na kay Zein.

I grabbed both of the wrists of Kyle and Zein. Nakita ko ang pag-ngisi ng ilang lalaki sa akin. I just rolled my eyes and walked out from the loud crowd. Pinaupo ko sa upuan namin sina Kyle at Zein at natulog na din sila sa tabi ni Ezra.

Napabuntong hininga ako sa pagod. Nilalamig na ako dahil sando type ang suot kong damit nang biglang may nag-suot sa akin ng leather jacket. Napatingin ako sa likod at nakita ko ang
future
ko.

Este, ang lalaking nagligtas sa akin sa Japan.

“You’re freezing,”
he said in a monotone and titled his face to my friends.
“Need help? Mukhang knocked out na ‘tong mga kaibigan mo.”

I shook my head while hugging his jacket that I’m wearing.
“No need, K-kuya. Magbo-book nalang ako ng taxi.”

His lips twisted into a wry smile.
“Bakit naman kuya ang tawag mo sa ‘kin? Na-kuya zone tuloy ako.”
napahawak pa siya sa kanyang dibdib na parang nasaktan.

Lumapit ako sa kanya at inilapit ang aking labi sa kanyang tenga.
“Ano bang gusto mong…itawag ko sa ‘yo?”

He hugged my waist to make me closer to his body.
“You can call me Yadiel.”

I felt secure while he was hugging me, but I needed to let go because my friends are more important.

“Sorry, Yadiel, but I need to get back with my friends.”
I whispered before I removed his large hands from my waist.

He bit his lower lip while looking at mine.
“G-Gusto mo, ihatid ko na kayo?”

Dahan-dahan kong inalis ang jacket niya habang nakatingin sa kanyang mga mata. Binalik ko sa kanyang ang jacket pagkatapos kong hubarin. Sa sobrang dami ko ng naging karelasyon, alam ko na kung paano sila aakitin hanggang sa tuluyan na silang mahulog.

Pwede ko naman siyang saluhin basta kakapit siya nang mahigpit.

“Hindi na, Yadiel. Kaya ko na ang mga friends ko.”

Ginising ko si Ezra at mukhang nahimasmasan naman ito. Siya ang umalalay kay Kyle at ako ang kay Zein. Mabuti at dumating kaagad ang taxi na tinawagan ko. Pumasok ako ng shotgun seat habang nasa likod silang tatlo na magkakayakap. Sumilip ako sa bintana ng taxi at nakita ko si Yadiel na naka-krus ang braso habang nakatingin sa taxi kung saan kami nakasakay.

I gave him a flying kiss kahit alam kong hindi niya ‘yon makikita dahil tinted ang bintana nitong taxi.

Kinabukasan ay masakit ang ulo ko dahil sa hangover. Dito ko na pinatulog sila Kyle sa condo ko dahil madaling araw na kami natapos. Naglakad ako papuntang bathroom para maghilamos. Kasalukuyan akong nagbibihis ng damit dahil suot ko pa rin ang damit ko kagabi nung may nalaglag na papel na galing sa bulsa ko.

It’s me, Yadiel. Call me, I’ll be waiting 099-812-*****

Aaminin kong kinilig ako sa kanya. Nagtataka ako kung paano niya nalagay sa bulsa ko yung number niya. Malakas ang pandama ko pero hindi ko napansin ang bilis ng kilos niya.

Kinusot ko ang papel at tinapon sa trash bin. Naniniwala akong kung siya ang para sa akin ay magkikita kaming muli. Hindi ako yung klase ng tao na maghahabol sa lalaki, dahil ako yung hinahabol nila.

Pagkatapos kong maghilamos ay nagluto ako ng hangover soup at nagtimpla ng lemon juice na maligamgam para sa mga friends ko. Nilapag ko iyon sa dining table at ginising sila.

“Sorry talaga, Levi. Wala naman akong ginawang nakakahiya kagabi, d-diba?”
nag-aalalang tanong ni Kyle.

I bit my lip to stop myself from the urge of laughing.
“W-Wala. Mabait ka kaya kagabi, hindi ako nahirapan.”

Zein wiped his mouth.
“Lalo na ako. For sure, nasa gilid lang ako at tahimik dahil lagot ako kay daddy.”

Napailing nalang ako. Dapat pala kinuhanan ko ng video ang mga kahihiyan nila kagabi. Pero ang mahalaga ay nakauwi kami ng ligtas.
Only child sina Ezra at Zein kaya strict ang mga parents nila. Si Kyle naman ay may mga kapatid na lalaki at siya ang panganay. Alam kong magagalit din ang parents niya kung iuuwi ko siyang lasing kagabi.

Somehow, what happened last night made me feel happy. I’ve bonded with my friends, and I finally know my savior’s name.

Yadiel, let’s meet again in the future.

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-7

It’s finally the day of Art Exhibit. Mamaya pang gabi ang simula, kaya pumunta muna ako ng salon para magpagupit. Lagpas balikat na kasi ang haba ng aking buhok at gusto ko ay mag-mukha akong presentable sa harap ng mga possible buyers.

Humihiling ako na sana ay may bumili ng mga photographs ko para madagdagan ang aking ipon sa tuition ni Lavinia. I want her to study in a private school just like my mom did to me. We didn’t come from a rich family, but she saved a lot for my studies.

I’m just wearing a casual shirt and pants. Nagsuot rin ako ng sunglasses dahil mainit sa labas at white flat shoes. Sumakay ako ng taxi papuntang mall at balak ko ding bumili ng damit na susuotin ko mamaya.

Pagkadating ko sa mall ay hinanap ko kaagad ang salon kung saan ako nagpapagupit. Hindi naman mabilis humaba ang buhok ko kaya minsan lang ako magpa-haircut. Often times, I just want it trimmed. Napilitan lang talaga ako ngayon dahil hinabilin din ito sa akin ni Mrs. Llanera.

”
Oh my god! Look who’s here? Hi Levi!”
Cheska exclaimed when she saw me entering her salon.

Kaagad ko naman siyang niyakap.
“I’m doing great! How are you?”

She pouted.
“Well, I’m okay. What brings you here?”

“Syempre magpapagupit ako, alangan namang mag-majong ako dito.”

I teased her.

Ang lakas ng mga boses namin kaya nakatingin na sa ‘min ang ilang mga customers sa loob ng salon. Cheska is my friend from College. She really wanted to become a hairdresser, so I was very proud when she opened her own salon.

 
I instructed her on the type of haircut that I wanted. I don’t like my hair to be super short, so I decided to have a Korean haircut. It’s a two-block haircut with bangs.

“Levi, feeling ko crush na kita!”
She chuckled while looking at me in the mirror after she cutted with my hair.

I rolled my eyes.
“Ghorl, hindi tayo talo. Alam mo namang naging jowa mo dati yung ex ko.”

She covered her mouth in shock.
“Bakla ka, pinaalala mo pa! By the way, may jowa ka ba ngayon or kalandian man lang?”

I sighed.
“Wala nga eh, may ipapakilala ka ba sa ‘kin dyan?”

“Jusko ka! Sa akin ka pa nagtanong, eh busy nga ako dito sa salon. And for sure, it won’t be hard for you to get a man. Isang kindat mo lang, sila kaagad yung mag-uunahang lumapit sa ‘yo.”

Nagpaalam na din ako sa kanya dahil tanghali na. Nasa isa akong fastfood restaurant at umorder ako ng spaghetti. Nahirapan akong kumain dahil may lalaki sa harap ko na kanina pa sa ‘kin nakatingin. I tilted my head to the side while I was eating since his stares made me uncomfortable.

I looked at him, and I can’t deny that he’s fine. He must be in his mid-20’s, and he had rough features.
Moreno ang kanyang kutis at malaki ang kanyang katawan.

But, he’s not my cup of tea.

Nanlaki ang mata ko nang ituro niya ang kanyang labi habang nakatingin sa akin. I can’t help but grin since I know what he’s trying to imply.

He wants me to kiss him.

“What?”
I whispered at him, sounding irritated.

He’s murmuring something, but it’s not audible enough for me to hear it. He keeps on pointing his lips, so I just rolled my eyes because he’s pissing me off. Tumayo ako sa aking upuan at lumabas ng restaurant.

“Hey!”
he said after grabbing my wrist.

Nanginig agad ako sa takot dahil sa bigla niyang paghawak. Hindi ko makurap ang aking mga mata at hindi ako makahinga.

He stood up in front of me and I could see the worriedness from his eyes.
“O-Okay ka lang? Hey, I’m sorry.”

Tumulo na ang aking mga luha nang mapansing mabilis akong pinalibutan ng mga tao. My hands and knees are trembling. Lumalabo na ang paningin ko sa patuloy kong pagluha.

Nakita ko ang pagkuha ng lalaki ng tissue mula sa kanyang bulsa at akmang pupunasan ang aking mga luha, nang biglang may isang baritong boses na nagpahinto sa kanya.

“Don’t you dare wipe his tears, or I will wipe your entire existence!”

That familiar voice of a man makes me feel comforted by just hearing him. Hindi ako nagtaka nung makita ko si Yadiel na tinulak ang lalaking nasa harap ko. Napaawang ang aking labi nang mabilis niya akong yakapin at ikulong sa kanyang mga bisig.

Yadiel’s panting.
“Shhhhh…you’ll be fine. Breathe in and breathe out.”

Tumango ako bilang pagsang-ayon at sinunod ang inutos niya. Basa na ang kanyang longsleeves dahil sa aking luha pero hindi niya ito pinansin.

He rested his chin on my shoulder and whispered in my left ear.
“Can you walk?”

Mabilis akong umiling. I really can’t move my feet. I felt weak and vulnerable.

He smiled at me, trying to calm me down.
“Fine. Now I want you… to wrap your legs around my waist and I’ll carry you.”

I chuckled sarcastically.
“Seryoso ka ba? Nakakahiya ang daming taong nakatingi—ahhhh!!!”

He gripped my waist and carried me on top of him. My legs immediately wrapped around his waist while my arms hugged his neck.
Nakakapit siya sa aking mga hita para di ako mahulog nung magsimula siyang maglakad.

I always feel secure when I’m with this man. A lot of guys have already carried me like this, but he’s more careful than they are.

“Mga kabataan nga naman..,tsk.”

“Yan ang when?”

“Sana all!”

Iyan ang ilan sa mga naririnig ko pero di ko nalang pinansin. Nakalabas na kami ng mall nang maalala kong hindi pa ako nakakabili ng damit para sa Art Exhibit mamayang gabi.

I tapped his back.
“H-Hey, ibaba mo na ako. M-May pupuntahan pa ako mamaya.”

His shoulders shrugged.
“Did you just call me ‘hey’?

Say my name and I’ll think if I should obey you.”
he sounded irritated.

I hit his back.
“Why should I know? Pakialam ko sa pangalan mo!”

“I’m not going to let you go until you say my name.”
he gave me a heads up.

Of course I know his name. Hindi ko lang saulo yung phone number niya, pero alam ko yung pangalan niya. Gusto ko lang siyang asarin.

Tumigil siya sa paglalakad nang makarating kami sa tapat ng isang BMW car. Mahigpit akong napakapit sa kanyang leeg nang bigla siyang yumuko para abutin ang pintuan ng shotgun seat. He’s carrying me with just one hand and I can’t believe that he’s really strong. Hindi naman ako mataba pero di rin ako ganon kapayat.

Pinaupo niya ako sa shotgun seat at sinuotan ng seatbelt bago lumakad papuntang driver’s seat.

I made up my mind.

The art exhibition will last for 3 days. I guess I can just go there tomorrow.

I wanna spend this day with Yadiel.

---

Brace yourself for the mature content in the next chapter;)

E.F.G-8 (SPG)

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

.

Bumaba nalang ako sa BMW niya nung mag-park siya sa isang ranch-style house. This house had similarities to bungalow style houses with ground hugging structures and one story living space.
Isang floor lang ito pero malawak. Malaki rin ang parking lot kung saan naka-park ang ilang magagarang sasakyan.

“Hey, bahay mo ba ‘to? Ang yaman mo naman.”
I wiggled my brows, trying to tease him.

“Yup, bahay ko ‘to.”
he answered while entering his passcode on his door.

Hindi ako gumagalaw mula sa tapat ng sasakyan niya kaya lumapit siya sa ‘kin.
“Can you still not walk? You want me to carry you… hmmm?”
Yadiel dared me.

I crossed my arms.
“Kaya ko, okay? Bakit ba kasi tayo nandito?”

He raised both his hands, trying to surrender.
“Relax, I just wanna know you and to check your condition.”

“Bakit doktor ka ba?”

“Yup, and you’re my patient from now on.”
he proudly remarked.

Nagkibit balikat nalang ako. He’s a doctor. Kaya naman pala mukha siyang professional tingnan. Ang ganda rin ng tindig niya. Nung una ko siyang nakita sa Japan, akala ko businessman siya.

Akalain mo nga naman, perfect match kami. I’m a traumatic patient and he’s a doctor.

“Sorry, wala akong pambayad sa ‘yo. Bye!”
aktong tatalikod na ako paalis nang hawakan niya ang palapulsuhan ko. Hindi naman iyon mahigpit kaya natanggal ko agad.

”
You want to cook for me? Niligtas kita kanina, gutom na ako.”
That doesn’t sound as a request, more like an order.

Walang hiyang ‘to

!

Kasalanan ko bang niligtas niya ako kanina. Of course I’m thankful, but that doesn’t mean that I owe him something. I can’t remember asking for his help earlier.

I dragged myself inside of his house. Namangha ako sa ganda ng loob ng bahay niya. Cowboy-themed ang interior ng bahay magmula sa sahig, dingding, bubong at maging sa recliners and leather chairs ay puro brown ang nakikita ko.

Pumasok si Yadiel sa isang room kaya umupo nalang ako sa sofa habang naghihintay. Maya-maya pa’y lumabas siya ng room at may dala na siyang medical kit at stethoscope na nakasabit sa leeg niya.

Kinuha niya ang isang stool chair at umupo siya sa harap ko. Tumagilid ako nang bahagya dahil masyado siyang malapit sa akin. Napansin ko ang ilang medical certificates at awards na nakasabit sa kanyang dingding. Hindi ko man siya gaanong kakilala pero masaya ako sa tagumpay niya.

He cupped my face to met his eyes.
“Sa ‘kin ka lang…tumingin.”

He said while biting his lip.

Masyadong nakakaakit ang kanyang mga titig kaya tumango nalang ako bilang pagsang-ayon.

He sighed heavily.
“Would you mind telling me your name?”

“Levi.”
I said in a flat tone.

He smiled after hearing me. Di ko lubos maisip kung bakit mabilis kong sinabi sa kanya ang totoo kong pangalan. Iba kasi ang pangalang sinasabi ko sa mga lalaking nakaka-flings ko noon. Mabilis kasi nilang mahagilap ang social media accounts ko, at hindi na nila ako titigilan.

“Hi Levi, I’m Yadiel Kristoff Romero. Nice to finally know you.”
he offered his hand.

Tinanggap ko naman yung kamay niya pero binitawan ko rin agad. Napaawang ang labi ko nang isuot niya ang stethoscope sa kanyang tenga at pakinggan ang puso ko.

Naku, sana di niya marinig ang bilis ng tibok ng puso ko!

Pero alam kong narinig niya iyon nang tumaas ang sulok ng kanyang labi. He must be enjoying what he’s doing to me. Ilang minuto na kasi niyang hindi inaalis ang metal diaphragm na nakadikit sa dibdib ko.

He looked at my eyes intently.
“Can I kiss you, Levi.”

I swallowed a lump in my throat. Wala siyang paligoy-ligoy at direkta niya yung sinabi sa akin. Hindi man lang siya kumukurap o nabulol kagaya ng ibang lalaki na nagtanong sa ‘kin niyan noon.

He’s my type.

Dahan-dahan kong inalis sa tenga niya ang stethoscope at tinapon iyon sa kung saan. Lumapit ako sa kanya at niyakap ang kanyang leeg bago ko siya hinalikan.

Noong una ay hindi muna siya gumalaw dahil sa gulat. Pero nagsimulang mag-init ang aming halik nang buhatin niya ako papuntang dining room.

Nakakapit ang mga hita ko sa bewang niya kagaya kanina. Lumayo ako mula sa kanyang halik nang mapansing dinadala niya ako sa dining table.

“H-Hey, bakit nandito tayo sa dining room? Hindi ba dapat sa kwarto mo?”

I asked while panting heavily.

He gave me a quirky smile.
“I told you, I’m hungry and I wanna eat you, Levi.”

Napasigaw ako nang ihiga niya ako sa wooden table. Mabilis niyang nahubad ang kanyang longsleeves at tumambad sa akin ang kanyang malaking katawan. His chest and abs are hard as stone. Napalunok ako nung mapansin ang malaking umbok sa kanyang pantalon.

“You’ll be my lunch this afternoon and I’ll be yours.”
he warned me before he unzip the zipper of his pants.

I covered my mouth in shock when I saw his proud member in front of me. I don’t want to compare, but his size is much bigger than my ex boyfriend’s before.

“I want your plump lips to suck me, Levi.”
that’s a request from Yadiel.

Tumayo ako mula sa pagkakahiga sa lamesa at lumuhod sa harap niya. I looked at his eyes before I kiss the tip of his member.

He growled.
“Fuck! Fuck! Please Levi, take me to heaven.”

I chuckled and let him hear it.
“Beg for it, Mr. Romero. I wanna see you beg.”

He looks confused.
“W-What? You want me to b-beg? H-How?”

Kinuha ko ang panyo sa aking bulsa at mabilis kong piniring ang kanyang mga mata. I badly want to hear him moan and scream my name.

“Yadiel, I’ll make sure that you won’t forget me after this.”
That’s my statement.

“Fuck, please take this blindfold off. I wanna see you, Levi.”
he begged.

I didn’t answer him. Hinawakan ko ang kanyang bewang at pinaupo ko siya sa lamesa kung saan niya ako pinahiga kanina. Nakita ko ang mabilis niyang paghinga at ang mahigpit niyang pagkapit sa sulok ng lamesa.

“No, Yadiel. You’ll be my lunch this afternoon. Let me hear you scream my name crazily and beg like an idiot.”
I whispered before I get on my knees to face his huge member.

---

Continuation of the Mature Content

in the next chapter;)

E.F.G-9 (SPG)

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

.

I cupped his huge shaft using both of my hands and stroked it slowly. Nakita ko ang paglunok ni Yadiel habang nakapiring at kagat ang kanyang ibabang labi. Naghahabol na rin siya ng hininga at alam kong nagpipigil na huwag tanggalin ang panyong nakatakip sa kanyang mga mata.

I started sucking his shaft without giving him a warning. His moans and groans filled the entire house. Mahigpit na nakakapit ang kanyang kamay sa gilid ng lamesa at doon kumukuha ng lakas.

“L-Levi! Ugh! P-Please untie me. I wanna see your face while sucking me!”
he growled.

I shook my head while his cock was inside my mouth. I tried to suck him whole, but it’s already reaching my throat, making me puke. I pulled out his shaft from my mouth and licked his balls.

“Hmm…you tastes good, Doc. Yadiel.”
I said in a hoarse voice.

He gulped.
“I don’t know I haven’t tasted myself yet. I wanna try-”

Hinawakan niya nang mabilis ang aking balikat at pinatayo ako mula sa pagluhod. I was shaken when he kissed me, even though his eyes were covered. He ravished my lips and bite it like a beast. My eyes widened when his tongue made an entrance in my mouth.

“Masarap nga… hmmm…”
he said in almost a whisper.

I smiled at him. I kissed him roughly and sucked his lips. He didn’t expect that I would respond to his kisses with the same intensity that he does. .

Nakahawak ang aking kamay sa kanyang matigas na dibdib at nakaupo ako sa kanyang hita. I can feel his hard cock poking my ass, so I reached it while kissing him. I started stroking it behind me, making him feel breathless from the sudden sensation.

He moved his lips lower to my neck. I just tilted my head to give him more access. He’s planting soft kisses, probably afraid that it will leave a hickey afterward.

“Ahhh shit! Yadiel, stop!”
I yelled when he started biting my neck.

Napatigil siya sa paghalik.
“S-Sorry, Levi. Nakakagigil ka kasi. Can I take this blindfold off so I can see you… better?”
he suggested while pointing at my handkerchief that’s covering his eyes.

“Kapag tinanggal mo yan, aalis na ako.”
I reminded him.

“Then, what should I do with my boner?”
he asked, sounding confused.

Dahan-dahan ko siyang tinulak pahiga sa lamesa.
“Just trust me, doc. I never disappoint.”

Mabilis kong hinubad ang pants at underwear ko habang nakakandong sa hita niya. I was holding his chest using my right hand for support, while my middle finger made an entrance into my ass.

He’s huge and I want to prepare myself for what’s about to come. Baka di ako makalakad ng ilang araw pagkatapos namin. Kailangan ko pang pumunta bukas sa Art Exhibit kaya hindi ako pwedeng ma-ospital nang tuluyan.

“Levi, what’s wrong? You need help? I have ten fingers here.”
he teased me while raising both of his hands.

“Y-You’re a doctor, but please be patient with me. Ayokong maging pasyente mo.”
my voice quivered when I pushed two fingers in my entrance.

“Ahhh! Shit! You’re so freaking big!”
I shouted when I pushed the tip of his shaft inside my entrance.

“Levi, relax. That’s just the head of my cock and you’re already screaming.”
he teased me.

Yadiel gripped my waist.
“Let me help you.”

“Ugh!”
we both shouted when he pushed my waist slowly down to his member.

Nakakapit ang aking mga kuko sa kanyang matigas na dibdib nang magsimula akong gumalaw. I wiggled my waist while I’m on top of him. His hands are trembling while cupping the cheeks of my ass for support.

“Fuck! Fuck! Levi, I wanna cum inside you…”

I just nodded and began to push myself to meet his thrust. I could feel that he was getting close when he started to thrust me hard. Nakatuwad na ako habang nakapatong sa kanya habang hinahayaan siyang gumagalaw dahil nanghihina na ako.

He’s kissing my lips, my cheeks and my neck. Mabilis ang kanyang paggalaw kaya hindi ko na napansin ang pagpisil niya sa buong katawan ko.

He switched our positions in just a snap. He’s now on my top and my handkerchief that’s covering his eyes fell down because of his massive movements.

Napakagat siya ng kanyang labi habang pinagmamasdan ang hubad kong katawan.

“You look perfect for me.”
he gave me a compliment.

I bit my lower lip, trying to resist the urge to smile.I hugged his nape to shut him up with a French Kiss. I was catching my breath when I noticed he
was sipping my tongue.

“Fuck! Levi, here I come!”
he exclaimed between his moans.

He gave me a few hard thrusts before he pulled out his shaft and released his load outside of my ass. Napasubsob ako sa kanyang dibdib sa sobrang pagkabalisa.

I felt so weak and tired. He claimed my lips while hugging me. I’ve never been so satisfied like this by just having sex with a man for only one round. I didn’t expect that my stamina wasn’t good enough to overpower Yadiel.

He twirled my hair.
“So, how’s that?”

I hid my face on his neck because I felt shy when I heard his question. “Y-
You said that you would check my condition. Is this what you meant by that?

”

He shook his head in disagree.
“I really want to know you, Levi. Not just a patient, but as a person.”

I just nodded.

He cupped my face to make me see him.
“Do you want to be my mate, Levi?
” he asked in a husky voice.

My brows furrowed.
“Yadiel, sorry. I don’t want to be claimed by someone again. Ayoko na ulit makipag-relasyon kasi hindi rin naman nagtatagal.”

I like Yadiel. I’m sure of that. I’m just afraid to put a label on us since it’s too soon and it might not last long. I don’t want to give myself to a person whom I don’t fully trust yet. Sex and dating are fine, but being in a relationship is a serious thing. I just want to play and enjoy where it will lead us.

The disappointment in Yadiel’s face was so evident.
“You want me to court you? Levi, tell me what should I do to make you mine? ”

 
I dragged myself onto his lap and rubbed my ass on his cock. I can feel that his hard again when he started to moan. I wanted to tease him more.

He’s panting again.
“Ugh! Fuck! Levi, is this your answer?”

I got off the table and leave his hard cock hanging. I grabbed a tissue to wipe my body and put my clothes back on.
“Wala kang gagawin, Yadiel. Hanggang sa muli nating pagkikita. Goodbye!”

Mabilis akong lumakad palabas ng bahay niya at napangiti nang marinig ko ang huli niyang sinabi.

“Levi! What should I do with my boner?! I’ll make sure you regret this.”

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-10

I was busy brushing my teeth when my phone received an alert. Mabilis kong tinapos ang aking ginagawa at nagpunas ng kamay bago ko tingnan ang phone ko. Napahawak ako sa aking bibig nung makita ang alert na natanggap ko.

Your account ending in 111 has been credited P50,000.00.

It looks like someone transferred a huge amount of money to my bank account. Kaagad kong hinanap sa contacts ang pangalan ni Mrs. Llanera para siya’y tawagan.

“Levi, I’m glad you called. Bakit di ka pala nakapunta kagabi?”
Mrs. Llanera sounds like she’s in a good mood.

“Sorry, Mrs. Llanera. I promise to be there this evening.”
I assured her.

Hindi ko na gustong magpaliwanag sa kanya kung bakit hindi ako nakapunta, dahil ayokong magsabi ng hindi totoo. Tinuturing ko na rin siyang pangalawang ina at malaki ang respeto ko sa kanya.

“Aba dapat lang, dahil may good news ako sa ‘yo! I’ll wait for you here tonight. Wear something formal, okay?”

I nodded even though she couldn’t see me.
“Noted po, Mrs. Llanera.”

Hindi ko na siya natanong tungkol sa perang natanggap ko. It might be rude to ask about it over the phone, and I have a lot of free time to talk with her. I will be available to hang out after this art exhibit, and I can’t wait to go into the club.

Stress reliever ko kasi ang pagpunta sa mga clubs at bars. Isa sa mga dahilan kung bakit hindi ako pumayag sa alok ni Yadiel ay dahil gusto kong maging malaya. I get the impression that he had a possessive personality, and I’m sure he would have forbid me from doing most of the things I enjoy.

Hindi na ako pumunta ulit ng mall dahil sa nangyaring kahihiyan kahapon. Kung hindi dumating si Yadiel ay malamang nawalan na ako ng malay.

I just dialed the number of Ezra to ask if I could borrow one of his suits. He’s a model, so he probably has a bunch of them. Hindi naman ako nabigo ng sabihin niyang mayroon siyang mapapahiram.

I wore a casual long sleeves shirt, pants and white pair of sneakers. Sumakay ako ng taxi papuntang
Versace Modelling PH.
Nakangiti akong lumapit sa security guard na nagbabantay sa entrance.

“Model din po ba kayo?”
bungad niya sa ‘kin.

“Hindi po, kaibigan po ako ni Ezra Carson.”
I politely answered before he guided me towards their lobby.

I guess that’s a compliment. Madalas akong alukin ng ilang agencies kung balak ko bang maging modelo pero tumatanggi ako. Simula kasi nung maging sikat si Ezra, hindi na kami masyadong nakakagala. Kung aalis man kaming magkakaibigan ay lagi siyang naka-facemask o scarf. Being a model is a hard job. You need to be a great example to the people around you. Unfortunately, I’m far from being good.

I’m a badass.

I don’t obey rules. I’m limitless and outrageous. No one can stop me from doing what I want. I make sure to enjoy my life to the fullest.

“Levi! Ghorl, I’m here!”
Ezra called me to get my attention.

Kaagad akong napangiti nung makita siya sa loob ng dressing room. Pinasadahan ako ng tingin ng ilang models at makeup artists pero di ko na ito pinansin.

Lumapit ako kay Ezra na nakaupo sa tapat ng vanity mirror habang inaayusan siya ng makeup artists.

“Levi, upo ka muna dyan sa couch. Matatapos na ako dito.”
Ezra advised me.

Umupo nalang ako sa couch na nasa likuran niya at nagulat nang makita ko si Lucas na pumasok sa dressing room. He’s only wearing a bench boxer brief, and it seems like he just finished his shoot. 

“B-Babe, wait lang. Magpapalit lang ako tapos alis na tayo.”
Lucas proudly said while standing in front of me.

Nakita ko ang pag-ngiti ng ilang mga models habang nakatingin sa direksyon namin. Ako na ang nahihiya para kay Lucas sa sinabi niya dahil hindi naman siya ang pinunta ko dito.

I crossed arms over my chest.
“Lucas, sorry to disappoint you, but you’re not the reason why I’m here.”

“Wala ka pala Lucas eh!”

“Barado ang mokong.”

“Shot nalang natin yan, pre!”

Iyan ang asar ng mga lalaking models kay Lucas. Disappointment was evident in his face. I knew I had hurt his pride, but we’re done. I made sure to explain it to him before he left my condo.

Malungkot na lumakad palabas si Lucas pero hindi ko na siya hinabol.
Maya-maya pa ay natapos ring ayusan ng mga makeup artists si Ezra. Kaagad siyang lumapit sa akin at bumulong.

“Bagay kayo ni Lucas.”
Ezra teased me.

I just rolled my eyes in frustration.
“Mas bagay kayo ni Adrian.”

Si Adrian ang personal assistant ni Ezra. Simula nung mag-start ang modelling career ni Ezra sa U.S, ay hindi na siya iniwan ni Adrian. I know Adrian loves my friend, and he’s a nice guy. Pagkasabi ko nun ay biglang pumasok sa loob ng dressing room si Adrian habang bitbit ang isang garment bag. Ngumiti siya sa akin pero nabaling agad ang tingin niya kay Ezra.

Malakas talaga ang tama niya sa kaibigan ko.

Ezra got the garment bag that Adrian was holding and gave it to me.
“Kahit wag mo ng ibalik. I wish you all the best, Levi.”

I got teary-eyed after hearing that. I quickly gave Ezra a hug.
“Thank you, ghorl! You’re the best.”

Hapon na nung makabalik ako sa condo ko. Naligo muna ako saglit bago magsimulang magbihis. Ezra gave me a black suit outfit with red overcoat on top. I partnered it with loafers pair of shoes. I put a light makeup on my face, so I won’t look dull later.

Agad akong niyakap ni Mrs. Llanera pagpasok ko sa loob ng art exhibit. I caressed her back in response.

“Akala ko hindi ka ulit pupunta, Levi.”
she whispered.

Kumalas ako sa kanyang yakap at binigyan siya ng matamis na ngiti.
“Pwede ba naman ‘yon, baka tanggalin mo po ako sa trabaho.”

She shook her head in disagree. Nakita ko si Tom na nakikipag-usap sa ilang buyers. Pinasadahan ko ng tingin ang mga paintings, sculptures at mga photographs na nakapalibot sa akin pero hindi ko makita ang mga pictures na kinunan ko sa Japan.

“Kung hinahanap mo ang mga photographs mo, nabili na ‘yon lahat kagabi.”
Mrs. Llanera proudly said.

Napaawang ang aking labi.
“So, yung fifty thousand—”

She cutted me off.
“Bayad ‘yon sa sold out mong photographs.”

Hindi ako makapaniwala na mabibili iyon lahat sa loob lang ng isang gabi.

Pero, sino kaya ang bumili non?

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-11

“Hey, Levi! Antagal nating hindi nagkita.”
Tom said in a monotone while walking towards my direction.

I was shocked when he suddenly hugged me. Hindi naman ako kaagad nakagalaw sa sobrang pagkabigla.

My lips parted when someone grabbed Tom’s arms and twisted them on his back. Hawak ng isang lalaki ang braso ni Tom at nilayo ito mula sa akin.

Tom growled.
“Ahhh! Ano ba?! I’m not doing anything wrong. Let me go!”

The man who’s holding Tom just sighed.
“Hindi po pwede. Pinag-uutos sa ‘min na bantayan si Mr. Sullivan, at wag palapitin sa ibang lalaki.”

Napalingon ako sa likod at nakita kong gaya ng lalaking humahawak kay Tom, ay may ilan ring lalaki na kanina pa sumusunod sa akin. They’re all wearing black suits. They’re tall and have a strong body physique.

Nanginginig na lumapit si Mrs. Llanera at hinawakan ang braso ni Tom palayo sa lalaki.

“P-Pasensya na po kayo sa anak ko, sir.”
Mrs. Llanera bowed her head down to the man. Hinampas niya ang balikat ng kanyang anak.
“Tom, mag-sorry ka sa VIP natin!”

Tom massaged his left arm.
“Bakit ako magso-sorry? Wala akong pakialam kung VIP pa yan. Napahiya ako eh, tsk!”

“Pag-pasensyahan niyo na po ang anak ko, hindi na po mauulit, sir.”
Mrs. Llanera apologized on her son’s behalf.

The man nodded.
“Mahigpit pong hinabilin sa amin ni big boss na wag palalapitin ang kahit sinong lalaki kay Mr. Sullivan.”

I crossed my arms over my chest.
“W-Wait, sino ba kayo para protektahan ako? Hindi ko nga kayo kilala.”

I rolled my eyes.
“At, sino yung big boss niyo?”

Naglapitan na sa direksyon namin ang ilang mga buyers. Nasa gitna kasi kami ng exhibit at marahil ay naririnig din nila ang pagtatalo. I’m sure that these men who are protecting me are bodyguards and they are working for someone higher than them.

Someone who’s powerful enough to be a VIP of this art exhibit.

All the men wearing black suits bow down to me.
“Pasensya na po, Mr. Sullivan, pero hindi po namin pwede sabihin kung sino si big boss.”

I chuckled and let them hear it.
“Pakisabi sa big boss niyo, salamat. Pero, kaya ko ang sarili ko. Wala naman akong pambayad sa inyo para protektahan ako.”

They all raised their heads.
“Hindi niyo po kami kailangang bayaran. Ginagawa lang po namin ang tungkulin namin.”

Mrs. Llanera intruded.
“Levi, yung big boss nila yung bumili ng lahat ng photographs mo kagabi. You must have thanked them instead.”

My mouth formed into an “o” after hearing the good news. Masaya akong ngumiti sa mga bodyguards.
“Pakisabi sa big boss niyo, papakasalan ko na siya.”
I joked.

All the men chuckled.
“Sige po, makakarating, Mr. Sullivan.”

I woke up early the next morning to pick up Lavinia in Tagaytay. Nagpaalam ako kay Mrs. Llanera kagabi kung pwedeng hindi na ako pumunta sa huling gabi ng exhibit, dahil sold out na rin ang mga photographs ko.

Those bodyguards who bought my photos didn’t mention the name of their big boss. Malaki ang utang na loob ko kung sino man ang boss nila dahil sapat na ang naipon ko para makapag-aral si Lavinia. Gusto kong sa private school siya mag-aral malapit sa work ko para madali ko siyang masundo tuwing uwian. She’s already 5, but she’s still a baby for me.

“Ate Levi!”
mabilis na tumakbo sa akin si Lavinia at yumakap nung makita ako.

I kneeled down, so I could kiss her cheeks.
“Na-miss ka ni ate. Nasaan pala sila Calvin at Carvin?”

Sina Calvin at Carvin ay kambal na anak ni Tita Macy. Isa sa dahilan kung bakit hindi sumama sa akin noon si Lavinia nung lumipat ako sa Makati ay dahil malapit ang loob niya sa kambal. Calvin and Carvin are now 6 years old, and they are already studying in preschool. 

Lavinia took out the lollipop from her mouth.
“Shh…school po.”

I chuckled. She’s still having a hard time saying words that start with the letter “s.”

 
I pinched her cheeks.
“Wag ka muna maging dalaga, huh? Gusto ko baby ka lang ni Ate Levi forever.”

Tumayo ako mula sa pagluhod nang makita ko si Tita Macy na lumabas mula sa kusina. I gave her genuine smile.

“Levi! Itong batang ito, hindi ka man lang nagsabing bibisita ka. Sana nakapagluto ako ng marami.”
she whispered while giving me a hug.

“Okay lang po, Tita. Hindi din naman po ako magtatagal.”

She guided me towards the dining room, and we left Lavinia, who was busy playing with her dolls. 

“Ano bang plano mo, Levi? Alam kong busy ka sa trabaho mo, kaya nag-aalala ako kung isasama mo si Vinia…”
she worriedly asked.

I nodded.
“Alam ko pong magiging mahirap sa akin dahil mag-isa lang ako, pero gusto ko pong makasama ang kapatid ko. May naipon na rin po ako para sa pag-aaral niya.”

She sighed in relief.
“Mabuti kong ganon. Napapansin kong naiinggit si Vinia kila Calvin kapag nagsusuot sila ng uniform tuwing papasok ng school. Gusto niya na talagang mag-aral.”

I wiped my tears after hearing what she said.
“Gagawin ko po ang lahat para sa kapatid ko.”

“Malapit na ring umuwi ng Pilipinas ang mama mo. Sinabi mo na ba sa kanya ang plano mong isama si Lavinia?”

I shook my head.
“Hindi pa po, ayoko po siyang mag-alala.”

Madalas kong sarilihin ang mga problema kaya ako din ang nagdurusa. Alam kong may mga problema din ang mga tao sa paligid ko at ayaw ko namang dumagdag pa sa mga iyon. No one know how much I’m suffering and it’s my choice. I have to face the consequences from being selfish.

Lumapit sa akin si Lavinia at yumakap sa bewang ko.
“Ate Levi, are you taking me with you, po?”

Kinarga ko siya.
“Yes, Vinia. I’ll bring you to my house. And then, you’ll go to school. Ate Levi, will take care of you, I promise.”

I raised my pinky finger at Vinia, and I’m glad she swore as well.

“I love you, ate Levi.”
she kissed me on my cheek.

I’ll protect her at all cost.

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-12

Hindi ko na inisip ang pumunta sa mga clubs, dahil naging priority ko si Lavinia. Mas pipiliin kong kasama ang kapatid ko kesa sa mga lalaking sarap lang ang habol. Besides, I prefer the way I live now. No pressure, no rules, and no baggage that I need to lift.

Kasalukuyan kong tinatalian ang mahabang buhok ni Vinia.
Noong bata ako, mahilig akong maglaro ng mga laruang pambabae dahil hindi naman nagagalit si mama. She would always say to follow my heart and she would support me no matter what.

“Ate Levi, I’m shh…scared to go to school.”
Lavinia blurted.

I had already enrolled her in Hailey Integrated School last week, and today is the start of their class.

I rested my chin on her small shoulder.
“Don’t worry, Vinia. Your classmates are the same age as you, so it won’t be hard for you to get along with them.”

She slowly turned around to face me. My lips immediately formed a smile when I saw her wearing her school uniform. It’s a short-sleeved sailor dress with a plaid skirt and barbie-styled black shoes. She looked so cute, so I grabbed my camera to take a picture of her.

My camera flashed and my lips parted in shock when I noticed a small red bruise on her left arm. 
Kaagad kong nilapag ang camera sa side table st lumapit sa kanya.

“Vinia, where did you get this?”
I asked while holding her arm.

She pouted her lips. ”
I just bumped it a bit… somewhere. Don’t mind that. I’m really fine, Ate Levi.”

I just nodded, not really convinced. 

Late na kaming nakarating sa school niya at mukhang nagsisimula na ang klase. Akala ko’y mahihirapan siyang magpaiwan pero nagulat ako nung pumasok siya agad sa classroom pagkatapos niya akong halikan sa pisngi.

Nakita ko ang pag-ngiti ng ilan niyang kaklase nung makita ang kapatid ko. We’re both half American. That’s why we stood out from the others because of our skin color and blonde natural hair.

May mga ilang magulang din ang nasa labas at hindi nakapagtataka na may ilang bata na takot magpaiwan sa kanilang nanay. I gave Vinia a flying kiss before I left her in school.

Dumiretso ako sa Lens Media Studio dahil pinatawag ako ni Mrs. Llanera. She didn’t tell me what the sudden meeting was all about, but it seemed important, so I rushed after I dropped Vinia off at her school.

Pilit akong ngumiti nang makita si Tom sa office ng mom niya. Hanggang ngayon ay tanda ko pa rin kung paano siya nasaktan sa ginawa ng bodyguard sa braso niya. Hindi ko na ulit nakita ang mga bodyguards pagkatapos ng exhibit nung nakaraang linggo.

Tom wiped the sweat on my forehead.
“Okay ka lang, Levi? Sana di ka nagmadali. Napagod ka tuloy.”

I tilted my head on the side to stop him from touching me.
“I’m fine, Tom. Di ‘ba sabi ko sa ‘yo, ayokong hinahawakan ako ng hindi ako aware.”
I warned him.

Inalis niya ang kanyang kamay na nakadikit sa noo ko.
“P-Pwede ba kitang hawakan, ulit?”
he asked for my permission.

I rolled my eyes, feeling irritated.
“A-yo-ko! Bakit ba ang touchy mo? Ayoko sa lahat yung mga lalaking clingy, okay?”

He nodded.
“Okay

. Kung magbabago ako, may pag-asa ba ako… sa ‘yo?”

My brows furrowed.
“Nasaan na si Mrs. Llanera? Siya yung pinunta ko dito eh.”

Lumakad siya palayo sa akin at umupo sa swivel chair ni Mrs. Llanera.
“Wala pa si mommy. Babalik ‘yon maya-maya…”

Umupo muna ako sa leather chair malapit sa pintuan.
“Gisingin mo ako ng 12 pm. Susunduin ko yung kapatid ko.”

Hindi pa ako nakakapikit ay bigla na naman siyang nagsalita.

“May kapatid ka, Levi? Mas matanda sa ‘yo? Maganda rin ba kagaya mo? Saan mo susunduin?”
sunod-sunod na tanong ni Tom.

I pinched the bridge of my nose to calm me down.
“Bata yon, Tom. 5 years old. Wag mo nang patulan dahil baka makalimutan kong anak ka ng boss ko.”

Tuluyan na akong nakatulog nung hindi na siya ulit nagsalita. I didn’t know how much time I had slept when someone tapped my shoulder to wake me up. 

“Levi, gising na. It’s now 11:45 am.”

Kinusot ko ang aking mga mata at napangiti kay Tom nung mapansing nakabalot na sa aking katawan ang kanyang suit. Inabot ko naman iyon sa kanya at nagpasalamat.

“Levi, saan mo ba siya susunduin? Sabay ka na sa ‘kin.”
Tom offered when we reached the ground floor.

“Sure, thanks!”
Hindi na ako tumanggi dahil baka ma-late pa akong sunduin si Lavinia.

Mabilis kaming nakarating sa Hailey Integrated School. Hindi na ako nakipagtalo kay Tom nung sumunod siya sa akin papasok ng school para sunduin ang kapatid ko. Napanatag ang aking kalooban nang makita si Lavinia nakikipag-usap sa isa niyang kaklase.

“My big brother is a doctor, and he always heals me when I’m sick.”
pagmamayabang ng batang lalaki na mukhang amerikano kay Lavinia. 

Lavinia crossed her arms over her chest.
“My Ate Levi is pretty. She’s the best artist ever, and she loves me very much.”

Parang hinaplos ang puso ko nung marinig iyon kay Lavinia. Akala ko’y nagtatampo siya sa akin dahil hindi kami masyadong nagkikita nung magsimula akong mag-trabaho. Napakasarap sa pakiramdam ang ipagmalaki ka ng sarili mong kapatid.

Tom rubbed my back.
“Your sister resembles your tough personality. Mukhang marami rin siyang mapapaiyak na lalaki.”

Hindi na ako nakapagsalita nung lumapit sa akin si Lavinia at yumakap. Lumuhod naman ako para maabot ko siya. Uwian na nila kaya maraming mga magulang ang nagsusundo ng kanilang mga anak.

“Ate Levi look, I got five stars!”
she proudly said while pointing at her wrist.

”
You did great!”

Napatingin si Vinia kay Tom na nakatayo sa gilid ko.
“Ate Levi, who’s this guy right here?”

Tom bended his knee to face Vinia.
“Hi, I’m kuya Tom! I’ll be your Ate Levi’s future boyfriend.”

I released a deep sigh after hearing him. I couldn’t handle his audacity.

Lavinia growled.
“No! Ate Levi already had a husband.”

“Sino?!”
sabay naming tanong ni Tom

“Me,”
a deep voice suddenly intruded. He walked towards the kid that Lavinia was talking to earlier.
“Hey, Yadriel, what’s up? Big Bro will pick you up! ”

Akalain mo nga naman ang tadhana? Hindi ko lubos maisip na makikita ko si Yadiel ulit. At sa school pa ng kapatid ko.

His little brother remembles his quirky personality too.

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-13 (SPG)

“Big Bro, here’s Lavinia. She’s my new friend here in class.”
wika ng batang si Yadriel sa kuya niya.

Nanlaki ang mata ko nang hawakan ni Yadriel ang kamay ni Vinia at halikan iyon sa tapat ng kuya niyang si Yadiel.

Kaagad kong hinila ang kapatid ko.
“Hoy, Yadiel! Wag mo ngang turuan yung kapatid mo ng kung ano-ano. Gumagaya tuloy sa ‘yo—”

Tom cutted me off.
“S-Sir, your face looks familiar for some reason…”
nagtatakang sabi ni Tom habang nakatingin kay Yadiel.

“Siya yung nagligtas sa ‘kin sa Japan.”
I whispered.

My shoulders shrugged when Tom guided my waist close to him. He’s now throwing death glares at Yadiel.

“Sumama ka na sa ‘min, sir. We’re going to grab our lunch, and I would like to thank you for saving my future lover.”
Tom offered while looking at me.

“Sure, I’m also worried about the condition of Levi because of what happened when we last… met.”
Yadiel confidently said while pursing his lips.

I suddenly felt hot when I remember what we did at his house the last time I saw him.

Hindi pa din ba siya nakaka-move on?

Well, I guess he’s still angry because I left him hanging with his boner. I just chuckled in my mind from the sudden realization.

Nandito kami ngayon sa isang Japanese Restaurant malapit sa school nina Lavinia. Napapagitnaan ako nina Tom at Lavinia at katapat ko si Yadiel habang nasa tabi niya si Yadriel. Walang bumabasag ng katahimikan kaya nagpasalamat ako nang dumating ang waiter.

The male waiter who’s wearing a black long sleeves and pants smiled at me.
“Here’s the menu.”

Kinuha naman agad iyon ni Tom at siya na ang umorder sa aming lahat. The waiter left after taking our order.

Tom offered his hand to Yadiel.
“I guess, I haven’t formally introduced myself, my name is Tom.”

Tinanggap naman iyon ni Yadiel.
“Nice to know you. I’m Yadiel Kristoff ROMERO.”
may pagdiin ang banggit niya sa kanyang apelyido na siyang ikinasamid ni Tom.

I tapped Tom’s back.
“Okay ka lang?”

Biglang hinampas ni Yadiel ang lamesa na siyang ikinagulat ko. I saw how his brows furrowed and his forehead creased because of annoyance.

Tom held my hand while smirking at Yadiel. I don’t know what they are fighting for, but they’re acting more like children than Vinia and Yadriel, who are just sitting quietly. 

Yadiel growled.
“Aalisin mo ang kamay mo, o tuluyan ko na yang babaliin?”
He warned while looking at Tom’s hand that was holding mine.

Mabilis na binitawan ni Tom ang kamay ko. I would have probably done the same thing after hearing Yadiel’s authoritative voice. Some of the customers are now looking at our table.

Napabuntong hininga ako nung dumating yung order namin. May sushi roll set, ramens, at sundaes for dessert.

Hindi ako makakain nang maayos dahil sa nakakatunaw na tingin ni Yadiel. Napakagat nalang ako ng ibabang labi nung kinindatan niya ako. This man and his charm that I couldn’t resist.

Lavinia poked my arm with her index finger.
“Ate Levi, I need to wiwi.”
she whispered, feeling shy.

I nodded in response. Kaagad ko siyang kinarga dahil medyo mataas ang kanyang upuan.
“Guys, we’re just going to the bathroom. We’ll be right back.”

Tumango lang si Tom habang si Yadiel ay napalunok pagkatapos niya akong marinig. Nagsimula na akong maglakad papuntang restroom. Nanlaki ang mata ko nang makita ang isang pamilyar na lalaki na lumabas galing sa men’s restroom. Kung hindi ako nagkakamali ay siya yung halos bumali ng braso ni Tom sa exhibit.

His lips parted when he saw me.
“M-Mr. Sullivan, magandang tanghali po.”
bati niya at yumuko sa akin.

Lavinia already entered the ladies restroom. I was hesitating whether I should follow her or not, but I did when I noticed there were no girls inside.

Akmang papasok ako sa isang cubicle pero pinigilan ako ng isang babaeng naka-itim na suit.
“Mr. Sullivan, hindi po kayo pwedeng gumamit ng restroom ng babae.”

Marahil ay isa rin siya sa kasamahan ng bodyguard na lalaki sa labas kaya tumango nalang ako bilang pagsang-ayon. Hinawakan ko ang palapulsuhan ni Lavinia nung matapos siya at lumabas kami ng girls restroom.

Ibinalik ko siya sa kanyang upuan at hinabilin kay Tom na bantayan si Lavinia dahil kailangan ko ring gumamit ng restroom. Pumasok ako ng boys restroom at kinulong ang sarili ko sa isang cubicle. Narinig kong may pumasok sa loob pero di ko nalang ito pinansin.

“Levi, buksan mo ‘to. Alam kong nandyan ka.”

I’m sure that baritone voice is from Yadiel. Dahan-dahan kong pinihit ang lock at nagulat nang bigla niyang buksan ang pinto para makita ang kalagayan ko.

“Sino yung lalaking ‘yon?! Future boyfriend tsk. Talampakan ko lang yon, eh!”
he asked me, gritting his teeth.

I could smell his perfume and it sends shiver down my spine. I sighed heavily, trying to control the situation.

“He’s Tom, ka-trabaho ko. Bakit mo ba gustong malaman?”
I glared at him.

Nakayukom ang kanyang kamao habang galit na nakatingin sa akin.
“Levi, nagseselos ako. Ayokong nakikita kang may kasamang ibang lalaki bukod sa ‘kin. N-Nandidilim ang… paningin ko.”

I rolled my eyes.
“Ano ba kita? As far as I can remember, I didn’t agree with your offer the last time we saw each other…”

Lumakad ako palayo sa kanya. My heart skipped a beat when he hugged me tight from my back. I could feel his warm breath on my neck.

He whimpered.
“Mahal kita, Levi. Ano bang gagawin ko? Hindi na ako makatulog bawat gabi kakaisip sa ‘yo.”

I chuckled and let him hear it.
“You’re so cute.”

I teased him.

He bit my left ear.
“I can be wild too. Wanna try?”

Inalis ko ang pagkakayakap niya at humarap sa kanya.
“No, thanks—”

He kissed my lips to cut me off.
“Don’t worry, someone is guarding the door outside. We’re safe here.”

He savoured my lips while wrapping his arms around my waist. I cupped his face to deepen his kiss. I just lost again with this man.

Napakapit ako sa kanyang leeg nung hawakan niya ang binti ko para buhatin. He made me sit on the restroom sink countertop while kissing my neck. I tilted my head up to give him more access. 

“You taste like peaches,”
He murmured between his kisses.

I gave him a sweet smile while unbutonning his long sleeves. He was running out of patience, so he helped me take it off. 

“Let’s be fast, Levi. The kids are waiting outside.”

---

Continuation of the Mature Content in the next chapter;)

E.F.G-14 (SPG)

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

.

Bumaba ako mula sa countertop at lumuhod sa harap niya. Yadiel’s looking down at me while I’m unzipping his pants using my mouth.

He groaned.
“Fuck! Levi, you’re so hot.”

I was able to unzip his pants successfully and take them off of him. He only had one piece of cloth left. He’s now only wearing a Versace Greca black brief. 

“How are you, little Yadiel?”
I said to his raging member when I took his brief off. It’s huge and proud. I tried to hold his shaft and stroke it gently.

Yadiel guided my head closer to his member
. “My little Yadiel, missed you too.”

I didn’t waste anymore time. I opened my mouth and sucked on his shaft without giving him any warning. I rolled my tongue on his cock’s tip and enjoyed every part of it.

“Shit! Levi, sorry for what I’m about to do.”
Yadiel whispered before he pushed me towards the countertop. He took off my pants and guided my right leg on top of the sink. I didn’t think I could be flexible enough.

“I love you, Levi.”
He confessed while inserting his finger in my entrance.

Nanginginig ang kaliwa kong paa dahil iyon lang ang tanging nakasuporta para di ako matumba. My legs are spread wide open and I feel very exposed.

He kept on thrusting me using his fingers until he stopped.
“I think you’re ready for my little Yadiel. Tell me if it hurts, Levi.”

I swallowed the lump in my throat when he pushed his hard cock inside me. I’m now facing the countertop’s large mirror, and I can see how he’s pounding and thrusting me from behind. Mahigpit akong nakakapit sa faucet at doon kumukuha ng lakas.

I whimpered.
“Ugh! Yadie—”

He covered my mouth with his right hand.
“Shhhh…please be quiet, Levi. We’re almost… done.”

We’re both catching our breaths and panting heavily. He keeps on thrusting me hard, and I’m pushing my body to meet his every move. I’m biting my lower lip to stop myself from moaning.

Yadiel gave me his hand.
“Bite my finger, Levi. I don’t want your plump lips to bleed.”

Kinagat ko nalang ang kanyang daliri at hindi naman niya ininda ang sakit. Mas bumilis pa ang kanyang pag-ulos at halos masira ko na ang faucet na kanina ko pa hawak.

Yadiel growled.
“Fuck! Fuck! Levi, here I come.”

He gave me three hard thrusts before he exploded his warm load inside me. Kaagad niya akong sinalo nung mawalan ako ng balanse. Pinaharap niya ako sa kanya at nakita ko ang pag-aalala sa kanyang mga mata.

He grabbed a tissue beside the countertop and wiped the sweat on my forehead.

“Mahal kita, Levi. I will do anything to make you mine.”
He sincerely said while panting heavily.

Hindi ko naman siya sinagot dahil sa pagod na aking nararamdaman. He cleaned me up and help me wear my clothes back. Nagbihis na rin siya at sabay kaming lumabas sa restroom.

Nagulat ako nang makita ang ilang bodyguards na nagbabantay sa labas ng male restroom at ang yellow sign board sa tapat ng pinto na may nakasulat na…

UNDER MAINTENANCE!

Napakagat ako ng labi nung ma-realize ko ang aking kahihiyan. Marahil ay narinig ng mga bodyguards ang ingay namin sa loob ng restroom. Napanatag ang loob ko dahil seryoso lang ang mga mukha nila habang nakatingin sa ‘min ni Yadiel.

Nauna na akong bumalik sa table dahil kinausap pa ni Yadiel ang mga tauhan niya. Wala na sila Tom at ang mga bata nung makarating ako sa table kung saan ko sila iniwan.

Kagat ko ang aking kuko habang pinagmamasdan ang paligid. Balak ko sanang tawagan si Tom pero wala na rin ang crossbody bag na iniwan ko sa table kung saan kami nakaupo.

My shoulders shrugged when Yadiel tapped me.
“Levi, what’s wrong?”

Humarap ako sa kanya.
“Nasaan na yung kapatid ko?!”

He blowed my face to stop me from crying.
“Sshhh…relax, Levi. Nasa labas na sila.”

I pouted my lips.
“Bakit di mo kasi sinabi? Pinag-alala mo ‘ko!”

Lumabas na ako ng restaurant habang nakasunod sa aking likuran si Yadiel. Nakita ko ang nakaparadang Bomb-Proof Mercedes-Benz Van sa parking lot. Nakabukas ang pintuan ng passenger seat at nagtatawan sina Lavinia at Yadriel.

Tumakbo palapit sa akin si Lavinia.
“Ate Levi, what took you sh..so long?”

Binuhat ko naman siya at inayos ang kanyang buhok.
“Ate Levi, had an… upset s-stomach.”

This is the first time that I lied to Vinia. For god sake, I felt so guilty.

Vinia nodded.
“Did Tito Yadiel help you?”

Yadiel held my waist and smiled at Vinia.
“Yes, I treated your Ate. Levi’s very…very fine now.”

He teased me.

Parang gusto kong lamunin ng lupa pagkatapos ko yung marinig sa kanya. Kung di ko lang kasama si Vinia, nasampal ko na siguro si Yadiel.

“Where’s Kuya Tom?”
I changed the topic.

“He left already.”
Yadiel answered.

Yadiel offered to drive us to my condo, so I just agreed. It’s already noon, and I already feel tired from commuting. Hindi naman ako ganito kahina dati. Napapansin kong mabilis akong mapagod kapag si Yadiel ang kasama ko.

“Hindi mo ba kami yayayain sa loob?”
Tanong ni Yadiel nung makarating kami labas ng condominium.

I gulped.
“G-Gusto mo bang pumasok?”

Shit! What did I say? I hope he didn’t realize the other meaning of what I said.

Yadiel chuckled while pursing his lips. 
“I’m just kidding, Levi. Next time mo na ako papasukin. Hindi naman siguro ito ang huli nating pagkikita, di’ba?”

I gave him smile.
“O-Oo naman, bakit hindi?”

Yadiel’s little brother cupped the face of Vinia and gave her a kiss.
“See you tomorrow, Vinia.”

Parang gusto kong pumatol ng bata pero di ko magawa nung makita kong ngumiti si Vinia.

 
“Sh…see you tomorrow, Yaddie.”
Vinia whispered, blushing.

“Yaddie?!”
I yelled so loud. Hindi ako makapaniwala sa narinig ko.
They already called each other’s nicknames.

Yadriel nodded at me.
“Yes po Ate Levi, Vinia is having a hard time saying my name, so I asked her to call me Yaddie.”

Yadiel bit his lower lip, trying to stop himself from the urge of laughing.
“Wag ka ng magselos sa mga bata, Levi. You can’t call me Yaddie, but I can be your Daddy. Do you mind having a sugar daddy?”

I just shook my head in disbelief. Binuhat ko na si Vinia at lumabas ng van nang hindi nagpapaalam sa kanilang magkapatid.

Sugar daddy? I never thought of depending on someone else. I can stand on my own.

 

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-15

It’s almost a week since Vinia started from school. Sabado ngayon kaya hinatid ko muna siya kila Tita Macy dahil nami-miss niya na raw ang mga kalaro niya.

Na-pagpasyahan ng buong Rainbow Squad na mag-celebrate dahil isang linggo na ring nagta-trabaho si Kyle sa isang magandang kompanya. I didn’t know much about details, but I heard that Kyle is the secretary of a well-known businessman. I couldn’t help but feel proud of him. 

Kasalukuyan akong nagyo-yoga dahil maaga pa naman at mamaya pa ako susunduin nila Ezra. I really want to keep my slim body figure, so I’m doing some exercise when I have my free time.

Napa-buntong hininga ako nung makarinig ng nagdo-doorbell sa labas ng unit ko. I grabbed the towel beside me and wiped my sweat before I opened the door.

“Wow!”
The lips of Tom formed an “o” when he saw what I was wearing. 

I’m wearing a Sando Croptop Shirt and fitted jogging pants. I noticed that he is holding a bouquet of red roses and that he is dressed casually in a black Polo shirt and ripped jeans.

 

“Anong ginagawa mo dito?”
I asked in a flat tone.

He held his nape, feeling embarrased.
“L-Levi, manliligaw sana ako sa ‘yo…”

I chuckled and let him hear it.
“Sorry Tom, pero hindi kita gusto.”

He sighed deeply.
“Bakit? Dahil ba kay Yadiel?”

“Bakit mo siya dinadamay? Hindi siya kasali sa usapan.”

He gave me the flowers that he’s holding.
“Para sa ‘yo, Levi. Pasensya ka na kung dinamay ko siya. I know that he likes you too; that’s why I asked.”

I nodded.
“Marunong ka bang mag-yoga?”
pag-iiba ko ng usapan.

“Yes!”
He answered quickly, in a lively tone.

Pinapasok ko siya sa loob ng unit ko. Mabuti at nakapaglinis ako kanina pagkatapos kong mahatid si Lavinia kila Tita Macy. Nakakahiya naman kasing magpa-pasok ng bisita kung marumi ang paligid.

“Hey what are doing?!”
Sigaw ko kay Tom nung makita siyang nakasuot nalang ng red boxer shorts.

He flexed his biceps in front of me.
“Look, I’ve been working out since last week. Do you like skinny or muscular guys, Levi?”

Hindi ko maintindihan kung saan nanggagaling ang mga tanong niya sa ‘kin. I already made it clear that I don’t like him, but he keeps on asking me these questions.

I stood up from lying on the yoga mat.
“Ano bang gusto mong mangyare Tom? Mahirap bang intindihin na ayaw—”

He gave me a peck on my lips.
”

What’s wrong with me, Levi? I can make you feel happy too. I’m not good with everything, but I’m willing to learn.”

“Sorry, Tom. Pwede bang umalis ka na muna? Gusto ko lang muna mapag-isa.”
I pleaded.

Disappointment was evident in his face. Bumuntong hininga siya bago naglakad palayo.

I gripped my hair, hoping it could lessen the stress that I was feeling, but it didn’t work. It’s still early in the morning, but I’m already feeling so burned out from stress.

Nakarinig ako ng pamilyar na boses kaya lumakad ako papuntang pinto.
“Tom, di ‘ba sabi ko umalis ka na! Baka dumating na yung mga friends k-”

Hindi ko natapos ang sasabihin ko nang makita si Kyle. Pansin ko ang pagkairita sa mukha niya nung makita si Tom. Kyle turned his face to me.
“Levi, halika na. Naghihintay na si Ezra sa baba.”

Nagpaalam sa ‘kin si Tom pagkatapos niyang magbihis at umalis rin kaagad. Nag-ayos muna ako ng gamit na dadalhin at sabay kaming bumaba ni Kyle sa condominium.

We’re going at Zein’s Private Resort in Laguna. Nasiraan pa ang kotse ni Ezra pero mabuti at dumating ang kaibigan ni Kyle na si Carlos, at inalok kaming ihatid papunta sa resort nila Zein.

Nakasakay kami sa Lexus Car ni Carlos nang mapansin kong may pamilyar na van ang sumusunod sa amin. Napangiti ako nang palihim dahil alam kong pag-aari iyon ni Yadiel.

I can’t believe that he would send his bodyguards to secretly follow me. I’m not sure what his intentions were, but I hope it’s for my safety. Yadiel is always there to save me whenever I need him.

I wore a fitted longsleeve swimwear and cycling shorts when we went out of the executive room that Zein had reserved for us. Hindi ko na nakita ang mga bodyguards nung pumasok kami sa loob ng resort nila Zein. Hindi rin namang ako sanay na may sumusunod sa ‘kin, pero nakaramdam ako ng lungkot nung hindi ko sila mahagilap kung saan.

Busy si Ezra sa mga ilang nagpapa-picture, si Zein at Kyle ay mukhang abala din sa pakikipag-usap sa mga staffs ng resort. I was holding my camera and taking some pictures of them when I noticed that someone was looking at me. 

I can’t deny that this man looks hot. He’s only wearing a white fitted boxers and his perfectly toned muscles are enticing. He gave me a wink when he saw me surveying him from head to foot. 

Okay Levi, this is it.

I badly want to confirm if I fell hard for Yadiel or if it’s just a simple admiration. There could be a possibility that I just admire Yadiel because he saved me many times, not to mention the Greek-god face and body that he has.

Lumapit ako sa lalaking nasa harap ko. He immediately grabbed my waist to get me closer to his body. I could smell his body soap, which sent a shiver down my spine. I just simply bit my lip and he was already panting. 

Effective pa rin pala ang karisma ko.

My shoulders shrugged when he suddenly pinched my ass. Napahawak ako sa matigas niyang dibdib dahil sa  pagkabigla. Nakita ko ang pagkagat niya sa kanyang ibabang labi sa sobrang gigil.

“Not so fast, baby, hmmm…”
I whispered seductively on his left ear.

He sighed heavily.
“Sorry, my love. Your ass is inviting me.”

I rubbed my index finger on his hard chest.
“Did you like it?”

He looked at my eyes intently.
“I like you.”

Mabilis ang sumunod na pangyayari at hindi ko na namalayan na sumama ako sa kanya. Dinala niya ako sa isang private room. He locked the door and kissed me torridly. I could feel his hard bulge poking my stomach, so I grabbed it.

I felt disappointed when I noticed that his cock wasn’t big enough to satisfy me. Narinig ko ang pag-vibrate ng cellphone ko kaya mabilis ko siyang tinulak.

I saw an unregistered number calling me. I didn’t hesitate to leave the man hanging and answered the call.

“Who are you—”

Yadiel cutted me off.
“We need to fucking talk, Levi!”

Oh God, I’m freaking dead.

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-16

Naglalakad ako habang kausap ko si Yadiel sa phone papuntang room namin nila Zein. For some reason, I felt guilty about what I did. It’s not like I cheated because I’m in a relationship with him.

I’m panting.
“We’re now talking, Yadiel.”

I heard someone called his name in a rushed tone. Looks like he’s at work and busy, but he managed to call me.

“Sinong kasama mo ngayon?”
Disappointment was evident on his voice.

“Wala.”

“Wala.”
he mocked me.

I clenched my fist, feeling irritated.
“Alam mo, wag ka ng tumawag kung iinisin mo rin ako!”

“Doc. Romero, need na po kayo sa ER in 5 minutes.”
rinig kong sabi ng isang babae.

Yadiel took a deep breath.
“Look, Levi. Busy ako kaya hindi kita mapupuntahan d’yan sa Laguna, but please…wag ka naman sasama sa ibang lalaki. N-Nagseselos ako eh. Fuck!”

I stopped walking after hearing that. Pakiramdam ko ay ang pula na ng mukha ko sa sobrang kilig. I screamed in my mind, so he wouldn’t hear it. I looked like a teenager being noticed by their crush. 

“W-Wag ka na magselos. Hindi ko tinuloy, okay? Hindi siya blessed kagaya mo.”

I heard him chuckled on the other line.
”

Fuck! I want to see you, but I can’t. I need to stay here in the hospital. Please be good, okay? I love you.

”

I hung up the call after hearing him say that. Hindi ko alam ang sasabihin ko. Sobrang daming laman ng utak ko pero naubusan na ako ng salita. I was speechless and I couldn’t explain the emotions that I’m feeling.

Marami ng lalaki ang nagsabing mahal din nila ako pero si Yadiel lang ang nagparamdam sa akin nito. I feel happy, excited, blessed and scared.

What if I just made him happy because of how good I am at pleasuring him?

What if it’s just lust that he’s feeling towards me and not love?

What if he’s just like my past boyfriends who just wanted me in bed because of how expert I am at making them crazy? 

Pumasok ako ng kwarto na nireserve sa amin ni Zein st humiga sa kama. Ang kaninang saya ay napalitan ng kalungkutan. My anxiety is killing me.

Mahal ko na nga si Yadiel, pero natatakot ako sa pwedeng mangyari. Kailangan kong protektahan ang puso ko, bago pa ako masaktan.
Kung kaya kong pigilan ang aking nararamdaman ay gagawin ko.

Nakatulog ako sa sobrang dami kong iniisip. Mag-gagabi na nung magising ako. Dali-dali akong pumasok sa bathroom para maghilamos. Hindi pa ako nagsi-swimming kaya suot ko pa rin ang damit ko kanina.

“Ghorl, saan ka ba galing? Nangingitim na kami dito at sa araw, tapos wala ka!”
Ezra yelled at me when he saw me walking towards them.

I stretched my arms.
“Sorry ghorls, nakatulog ako.”

“Ikaw ba naman mag-yoga ng dalawang beses sa isang araw, mapapagod ka talaga.”
Kyle teased me.

Nag-enjoy naman kaming lahat sa halos dalawang araw naming pag-stay sa resort ni Zein. Hinatid kami pauwi ng PA niyang si Adrian nung linggo ng gabi.

”
Ghorl, we’re here at your condo.”
Kyle woke me up from sleeping.

Umalis ako sa pagkakasandal sa balikat ni Kyle.
“Oh shoot! Sorry, hindi ko napansin nakatulog na pala ako.”

Tumango nalang siya at ngumiti. Nagpaalam ako sa kanilang lahat at bumaba ng sasakyan ni Adrian. Nagulat ako nang makita si Tom na naghihintay sa labas ng condominium at agad na kinuha ang bag ko mula sa akin.

Tom waved his hand to my friends.
“Hi! I’m Tom, future boyfriend ni Levi. Nice to see you all!”

I shook my head in disagree.
“Wag kayong maniwala dyan, akin na nga ‘yang gamit ko!”
kinuha ko sa kamay niya ang bag ko at lumingon kila Kyle.
“Bye ghorls, see you when I see you!”

Pumasok na ako agad ng condo pagkatapos magpaalam kila Kyle. Mabilis ang aking paglalakad habang nakasunod sa akin si Tom. I was already in front of my unit when I turned my face at him.

“Ano bang kailangan mo?”
I glared at him.

I saw him swallowed the lump in his throat.
“Levi, I-I’m sorry if I kissed you. Please, wag mo naman akong layuan…”

I smirked.
“Tom, I’m not trying to avoid you. Remember that I’m not following you either. Ikaw ‘tong lapit ng lapit sa ‘kin.”
I calmly said.

It’s not my intention to hurt him, but I don’t like seeing him like this. Love doesn’t need to be forced. We should love someone without asking in return.

“Fine. Hindi na kita susundan. Let’s be friends again, Levi. I’ll let you go now.”
His lips parted, stepping back.

Hinayaan ko siyang lumayo at umalis sa harapan ko. Sobrang sakit para sa akin ang makasakit ng tao pero kailangan ko yung gawin, dahil mahihirapan din kaming dalawa.

Napaupo ako sa tapat ng unit ko. Kusa nang lumabas ang luhang kanina ko pa gustong pigilan. I was sobbing so hard while biting my lip. Tom is my friend, and I also don’t want to lose him. I can’t deny what I knew deep inside; that his feelings are valid, but I can’t accept him. 

I snapped back to reality when my phone rang. Kaagad kong pinunasan ang aking mga luha bago kinuha ang phone sa dala kong bag. I took a deep breath before answering the call from Aunt Macy.

I’m still sobbing.
“H-Hello po, Tita?”

Naghahabol ng hininga si Tita Macy.
“Levi, nasaan ka?! Si Lavinia kasi—”

Hindi ko na siya pinatapos at agad tumakbo palabas ng condominium. Alam kong may masamang nangyari kay Lavinia sa tono ng kanyang pagsasalita. Bitbit ko ang bag ko at hindi alintana ang ilang tingin ng mga tao sa ‘kin.

Patuloy ang pagtulo ng aking mga luha habang tumatakbo palabas. I stopped when I reached the exit and saw Yadiel wearing his labcoat in front of me. He appears to have just gotten off work and stopped by to see me.

Agad siyang tumakbo sa ‘kin at niyakap ako nang mahigpit.
“Shhh… don’t cry, Levi. I’m here. What’s wrong?”
He worriedly asked.

“S-Si V-Vinia kasi—”

He kissed my forehead. ”
I got it. Let’s go pick her up.”

---

🌈🙃

E.F.G-17

Nanginginig ang buong katawan ko habang yakap ako ni Yadiel sa loob ng van. Nasa passenger seat kami nakaupo at may driver naman na nagmamaneho sa harap.

Yadiel kissed my cheeks.
“Relax, she’s gonna be okay.”

Hinampas ko ang braso niya.
“Wag ka ngang panay dikit! Mas kinakabahan ako sa ‘yo, eh.”

Kanina pa kasi siya halik ng halik. Itim ang van kung saan kami nakasakay, at hindi rin kami nakikita ng driver dahil busy ito sa pagda-drive. Hindi ko lang siya pinapansin kanina pero kung saan-saan kasi siya humahalik kaya nagalit na ako.

Yadiel raised both of his hands.
“Sorry, akala ko kumakalma ka sa halik ko, eh.”

My lips parted in disbelief.
“Kalma? Eh, mukhang kanina ka pa nag-eenjoy!”

Kung may masasakyan lang talaga ako ngayong madaling-araw, hindi na sana ako sumabay sa kanya. Nag-aalala daw kasi siya sa ‘kin kaya niya ako pinuntahan agad sa condo nung malaman niyang nakauwi na ako.

He took off his labcoat and wore it to me.
“I just care about you, Levi.”

I just rolled my eyes and turned my face towards the van’s window. I breathe heavily and just pray in my mind about Vinia. Gusto kong tawagan ulit si Tita Macy pero kinakabahan ako.

Sana’y maayos lang ang kapatid ko, dahil sisisihin ko ang sarili ko kapag may nangyaring masama sa kanya.

Nakarating din kami sa bahay ni Tita Macy makalipas ang isang oras. Dali-dali akong bumaba ng van hawak ang bag ko, at hindi na nagpaalam kay Yadiel. Napatigil ako sa pagtakbo nang marating ko ang bukas na pinto ng bahay ni Tita Macy at nakitang buhat niya ang kapatid ko.

“Shhh… Wag kang mag-alala, Vinia. Darating na si Ate Levi mo.”
Aunt Macy said while caressing the back of my little sister.

Vinia’s trying to keep her eyes open; she looks so tired and lifeless.
“Tita, matagal pa ba shi…si Ate? Naaantok na po ako…”

Mahigit dalawang araw lang akong nawala pero grabe ang pinayat ni Vinia. Matamlay at para wala ng lakas kung titingnan mo siya. Dahan-dahan akong lumapit habang pinipigil ang pag-iyak.

Vinia smiled when she saw me.
“Ate!”

Kinuha ko siya mula kay Tita Macy. Hinaplos ko ang kanyang mukha at hinalikan ang mainit niyang noo.
A lone tear fell from my eyes when I realized that she was burning from fever. 

Aunt Macy tapped my shoulder.
“Nilagnat siya simula nung umalis ka. Hindi kita kaagad natawagan—”

I cut her off.
“B-Bakit di niyo po ginawa?”

Vinia cupped my face with her trembling small hands.
“Don’t be mad, Ate. I’m the one who asked Tita Macy to not call you because you’re with your friends.”

Humagulgol na ako ng sobra pagkatapos kong marinig iyon. Naghihirap yung kapatid ko, samantalang nagpapakasaya ako. Hindi ko man lang siya naisip.

Anong klase ba akong kapatid?

My lips parted when I noticed that Vinia was having a hard time breathing and her skin looked paler than before. 

“V-Vinia, what’s wrong?”
I panickedly asked her. 

Vinia wiped my tears before she speak.
“Ate Levi, I’m sh…sick. I can’t breathe.”

Oh God, please no!

Mabilis akong lumabas mula sa bahay ni Tita Macy habang bitbit si Vinia. Nakasabit sa aking balikat ang dala kong bag at hindi ko na ramdam ang bigat sa sobrang kaba. Nanginginig ako habang karga ang aking kapatid sa malamig na gabi. Nakasandal ang kanyang mukha sa aking dibdib at ramdam kong hinang-hina na siya.

I stopped walking when I saw Yadiel, who was still waiting for me outside of his van. His arms are crossed over his chest. Tumakbo siya palapit sa akin nung makitang karga ko ang kapatid ko.

Kinuha niya si Vinia mula sa akin at kinarga papasok sa van. Mabilis din akong sumunod sa kanya. Pagkasara ng pinto ay agad pinaandar ng driver ang sasakyan.

“Butler Chris, pakibaba po kami sa ospital namin.”
utos ni Yadiel sa driver.

Yadiel whispered at Vinia.
“Baby, can you try to take a deep breath and exhale for Tito Yadiel?”

Sinunod naman siya ni Vinia kaya gumaan ang pakiramdam ko kahit papaano. Hinawakan ko ang kamay niya at hinalikan iyon.

“We are almost at the hospital, Vinia. The doctors will heal you just like T-Tito Yadiel.”
I assured my little sister.

Mabilis ang pagpapatakbo ng driver ni Yadiel kaya nakarating din kami agad sa Romero Medical Hospital. Buhat ni Yadiel si Vinia habang nakasunod ako sa kanya.

“Prepare the Emergency Room, now!”
Yadiel shouted at the nurse station.

Tumango ang ilang mga nurse at mabilis na sumunod sa utos ni Yadiel. Patuloy ang paghaplos ni Yadiel sa likod ni Vinia habang hinihintay ang hudyat ng mga nurse. Maya-maya pa ay lumabas ang isang nurse at sinabing maaari ng pumasok sa Emergency Room.

Yadiel touched my face with his left hand.
“Don’t be afraid, your sister will be okay.”

I nodded in response.
“P-Please treat her. Handa kong gawin ang lahat, Yadiel.”

Kagat ko ang aking kuko habang nanginginig ang buo kong katawan nang pumasok si Yadiel sa Emergency Room dala si Vinia. Hindi ako pinayagang pumasok sa loob kaya nakaupo lang ako sa Waiting Area.

The sight of the nurses panicking earlier made me scared. I bow my head and pray for Vinia’s recovery. She’s my only sister, and I don’t want her to suffer.

Hinihiling ko na sana ako nalang yung nagkasakit. Sinisisi ko ang sarili ko sa lahat ng nangyayari. Maga na ang mga mata ko sa kakaiyak. I’m good at hiding my emotions, but I lost it when I saw my sister’s condition.

Never in my life have I cried in front of someone, and here I am. I was crying heavily while a lot of patients and nurses were looking at me. Curiosity is evident in their eyes. 

I’m always alone.

Lagi kong gustong mapag-isa kapag malungkot. Lagi kong dinadamayan ang sarili ko sa oras ng pighati. Lagi kong tinatago ang mga sakit dahil ayokong maging pabigat sa iba.

I shrugged when someone caressed my back.
“Be strong. Doc. Yadiel is a great doctor. Trust me.”

I wiped my tears from my cheeks and wryly smiled at her. She’s wearing a labcoat too, so I guess she’s a doctor. 

She offered her hand.
“I’m Doc. Lorriane Mercado. What’s your name?”

I took her hand and shake it.
“L-Levi. Nice to meet you, Doc.”

My gaze wandered over her face. I think I saw her on the cover of a health magazine. She’s very innocent and charming at the same time.

I didn’t expect to meet a new friend in the midst of my situation. 

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-18

Minulat ko ang aking mga mata nang makaramdam ng tumatapik sa aking balikat. I was surprised to see Yadiel sitting beside me, and I’m now lying on a sofa in a private room. 

“Good morning, Levi. Kain ka na, I bought soup for you and Vinia.”
he uttered.

I quickly stood up to find my sister and was shocked when I saw her sleeping on the patient’s bed. An oxygen mask is covering her mouth, but she’s still breathing heavily. The bruises on her arms are much more evident and she has instantly become thinner than before. 

Nanginginig ang buo kong katawan habang lumalakad patungo sa kanya. Hinalikan ko ang kanyang noo at tuluyan ng umagos ang mga luhang hindi ko mapigil.

“V-Vinia, A-Ate’s sorry. I-It’s my fault. I shouldn’t leave you behind.”
I whispered between my sobs.

Vinia slowly opened her eyes and wiped my tears with her trembling hands.
“Ate, don’t be sh…sorry. I’m okay. Tito Yadiel will heal me, sh…so I can go back to sh…school.”
she said with her oxygen mask on.

Yadiel walked towards our direction.
“Y-Yes, Vinia. Tito Yadiel will do his best to…treat you.”
he promised, sounding unsure.

Tinanggal ni Vinia ang oxygen mask na nakasuot sa kanya at umupo. Parang tinutusok ang puso ko habang pinagmamasdan siyang nagpapanggap na masigla kahit alam kong hirap na hirap na siya.

I grabbed the bowl of soup that Yadiel had brought for us and started to feed her. The smile never left her face while looking at me. I wiped her mouth after she’s full.

“Levi, please follow me in my office.”
He uttered before stepping back.

Hindi maganda ang tono ng kanyang pagsasalita kaya nakaramdam ako ng takot. Nakita kong mahimbing ang tulog ni Vinia kaya sumunod nalang ako sa kanya. Tumigil siya sa medical office at binuksan ang pinto para sa akin.

Romero Medical Hospital

Dr. Yadiel Kristoff Romero

Hematologist

Pumasok naman ako sa loob at umupo sa Operator Chair na nasa harap ng table niya. I noticed that he hasn’t looked at my eyes since we left Vinia’s room, and that makes me feel worried. I’m preparing myself for the worst at that moment.

I broke the silence between us.
“Yadiel, tell me what’s wrong with my sister.”

He grabbed a white folder that contained medical results under my sister’s name. He moved his swivel chair close to me and showed the papers inside. I didn’t understand everything that was written, but I already cried when I read that it was my sister’s blood test results. 

Yadiel held my hand before he speak.
“We ran a thorough check on Vinia’s blood and bone marrow, and we found out that she’s suffering from Acute Myeloid Leukemia—”

“No!”
I yelled so loud. Hinawakan ko ng mahigpit ang kanyang kamay at naghihintay na bawiin niya ang mga sinabi niya pero hindi siya nagsalita.

I bow my head on his hands while my tears were beginning to blur my vision.
“Y-Yadiel, sabihin mo sa ‘king nagsisinungaling ka lang. H-Hindi pwedeng may s-sakit ang kapatid ko. S-She’s only 5 and she can’t be sick.”

He held both of my shoulders trying to catch my attention. Napatingin naman ako sa kanya at nakita siyang umiiyak na rin kagaya ko. It must be hard for him to say the truth, but I forced him to spill it.

“L-Levi, look at my eyes.”
napatingin naman ako sa mga mata niyang may bahid ng kalungkutan.
“I will do my best to save your sister, so please be strong. Hindi kita papabayaan.”

Lumuhod ako sa harap niya at di alintana ang malamig na sahig. Akala ko’y manhid na ako sa dami kong pinagdaanan noon, pero hindi pa pala. Akala ko’y masakit na ang ginawa sa akin ni Tito Marvin pero may mas isa-sakit pa pala.

My sister is one of my strengths and the reason why I keep on going. She’s the one who encouraged me to become a photographer so I could take pictures of her once she became a model like Ezra. She’s just a child, but she’s full of dreams. I can’t see myself living without her by my side. 

I whimpered.
“Y-Yadiel, nagmamakaawa a-ako. Iligtas mo ang kapatid ko kahit anong mangyari. G-Gagawin ko ang lahat, kahit ikamatay ko pa…”

He bended his knees and hugged me tight.
“I can’t guarantee everything, but I’ll do my best Levi. Wag ka ng umiyak, please. Mas masakit sa ‘kin.”

Bumalik ako sa kwarto ni Vinia pagkatapos ng pag-uusap namin ni Yadiel. Tumawag sa akin kanina si Mrs. Llanera at sinabing pinapatawag ako sa kompanya pero di ako pumunta. Mas mahalaga sa aking mabantayan ang kapatid ko sa ngayon.

I was sitting beside Vinia on her bed when I heard my phone ring. Mabilis kong inabot ang bag at kinuha ang cellphone ko. Huminga ako nang malalim nung makita sa mama na tumatawag.

“Anak, kumusta kayo d’yan? Balita ko pumapasok na si Vinia sa school,”
masayang bungad ni mama pagsagot ko ng tawag.

I thought Aunt Macy had already informed her about what happened to Vinia, but it seems like she didn’t. I bit my lower lip, trying to hold back my tears.

“O-Okay lang po k-kami ni Vinia.”
I tilted my head at my sister, who was still sleeping soundly.
“M-Miss ka na po namin,”

I began to cry, but I forced myself to make no sound. I don’t want my mom to worry about us. I know she’s working so hard in Qatar and she’ll come back next month. 

I could hear her sobbing on the other line.
“I miss you too, anak. Magdadala ako ng maraming pasalubong para sa inyo ni Vinia.”

Binaba rin kaagad ni mama ang tawag, dahil kailangan na daw siya ng inaalagaan niya. She’s assisting the elderly, disabled patients, or people suffering from chronic or mental disorders in a health care center. It’s odd to know that she’s taking care of them, but her own children are longing for her. 

Vinia was only 2 years old when she left us with Aunt Macy to work in Qatar. I know that Vinia missed our mom so much and felt envy for the other children who had both of their parents while growing up. It’s making me sad since she didn’t say it verbally, but I could see it in her eyes.

She’s longing for parental love and I, myself, am not enough to fulfill it.

 

---

🌈🙃

E.F.G-19

Maaga akong pumunta sa condo kinabukasan para kumuha ng mga damit ni Vinia. Naligo na rin ako at nagpalit ng damit. Mabilis ang aking kilos na wari mo’y nakikipaghabulan, dahil gusto kong makita ako ni Vinia pagmulat ng kanyang mga mata.

“Ate Levi, I want to go home na po.”

Vinia suggested it while I was wiping her arm with a wet towel.

I gave her a forced smile.
“Vinia, we cannot go home yet since you’re still not feeling well. I-I promise, we’ll go home soon, okay?”
I’m trying to talk slowly to match her pace.

She just pouted. The disappointment on her face was so evident.
“O-Okay po, Ate Levi.”

I cupped her face and rubbed my thumb on her cheeks.
“Ate, was needed in her work for an hour. Do you want me to just stay here?”

She just nodded in response. I don’t want to leave her alone even for just a second, but I don’t have money to pay for her bills anymore. My savings were gone since I paid her medical fees last night. Yadiel offered to pay it last night, but I declined.

Oh God! Ang hirap palang mag-isa. Pero ito yung ginusto ko dahil ayokong maka-abala sa iba. I can’t believe I’m still thinking about others even though I’m almost dying from so much pain.

Kaagad akong pumunta sa Lens Media Studio dahil kahapon pa ako pinapatawag ni Mrs. Llanera. Hinabilin ko sa ilang nurse na bantayan ang room ni Vinia at pumayag naman sila. Marahil, ay inutos din iyon ni Yadiel.

Agad akong pumasok sa office ni Mrs. Llanera at nakita siyang may kausap sa telepono.
She turned her face when she noticed my presence.
“Good Morning, Levi. I’m glad you’re here!”
She greeted me after ending the call.

I sat on the chair in front of her table.
“Good Morning din po. Bakit niyo po pala ako pinatawag? May darating po ba tayong exhibit?”

Sanay na akong exhibit ang dahilan kung bakit niya ako laging pinapatawag. Wala namang siyang sinabi tungkol sa meeting namin ngayon, kaya tinanong ko na rin para makasiguro.

She grabbed my hand and gave me a sweet smile.
“Yes, Levi. Sold out yung mga pictures mo kaya need natin ng mas marami for the upcoming exhibit next month. You’ll be going to Spain with Timothy by tomorrow…”

I bit my lower lip and shook my head slowly.
“S-Sorry po, Mrs. Llanera. Hindi po ako pwedeng makasama.”

“Huh, bakit? Dahil ba ito kay Timothy?”
she sounded confused.

I shook my head again while looking intently in your eyes.
“Wala pong kinalaman si Tom. Kailangan lang po ako ng… kapatid ko sa ngayon.”

Her mouth formed an ‘o’ shape.
“Why? What happened to your little sister?”
she held my hand tightly.

“Pwede po ba akong humingi ng tulong. Kailangan ko lang po talaga

ngayon…”
I begged.

I have already called all of our relatives, but they don’t move enough money I can borrow. I started to cry. I felt so low and pitiful, but I can take all the shame that I’m feeling for my sister.

I also want to call my squad, but I know they are busy and stressed as well. Kyle seems to have problems with his boss. Ezra was always with Brett because of their photoshoots together while, Zein was managing their resorts.

Mrs. Llanera allowed me to have an advance payout, but I need to work hard to pay it. Alam kong hindi pa din iyon sapat para sa mga gamot at iba’t-ibang tests para malaman kung gaano kalala ang sakit ni Vinia, pero mas mabuti na yun kesa wala siyang mapahiram na kahit anong halaga.

Hapon na ng makarating ako sa Romero Medical Hospital kaya kumaripas ako ng takbo pagbaba ko ng taxi. Nakarating agad ako sa hallway ng kwarto ni Lavinia, pero napahinto ako nang makita ang ilang nurse at mga doktor na mabilis pumasok sa kwarto ng kapatid ko.

Iginalaw ko ang aking mga paa at humihiling na sana’y hindi pa huli ang lahat. I braced myself before entering the room Vinia. I felt like my whole world crashed when I saw a lot of doctors and nurses in front of the bed of my sister.

The old doctor tsked.
“This will not do. We need to inform the parents of this child before the it’s too late.”

Yadiel wiped his tears with his back hand.
“D-Doc. Perez, can you hear what you’re saying?! We can still save her using different methods. H-How about blood transfusion… or chemotherapy?”

Doc. Lorriane growled.
“Doc. Yadiel, Levi’s little sister is now on her l-last stage! She can’t survive… using those methods.”

Napaupo ako sa sahig pagkatapos ko yung marinig. Bumaling sa akin ang kanilang atensyon. Mabilis akong nilapitan ni Yadiel para yakapin at doon na ako humagulgol ng sobra-sobra.

Mawawala na yung kapatid ko.

No! She’s still a baby to me and she still has a lot of dreams that she wants to achieve.

Gusto niyang maging model kagaya ni Ezra. Gusto niyang makapunta sa Eiffel Tower kasama si Kyle at matutong lumangoy kasama si Zein.

Gusto ko ring makita niya akong maging successful kagaya ng mga kaibigan ko.

Pinilit kong tatagan ang sarili ko. Nanginginig ang buo kong katawan habang hawak ang aking camera na dinala ko mula sa office. Malabo na ang aking paningin sa mga luhang patuloy na umaagos mula sa aking mata, pero napakalinaw sa akin ang mga aparatong naka-kabit sa kapatid ko.

Hinang-hina na siya!

I cupped her face and kissed her forehead.
“V-Vinia, m-magpakatatag ka para k-kay Ate. Sabi mo nami-miss mo ng umuwi? B-Babalik na si mama kaya please… l-lumaban k-ka…”
I whispered at my sister.

She didn’t respond with words, but I saw a lone tear fall from her little eyes. I kissed her again, hoping it could lessen the pain that she’s feeling and she just smiled at me.

She opened her eyes and wiped my tears.
“A-Ate Levi, I wanna s-see m-mom. I missed her s-so much.”

I tried to put a smile on my face.
“You can now say the letter ‘s’ without stuttering? Y-You’re now a big sister!”

She nodded.
“Y-Yes po, ate. You told me b-before that mom will come home once… I’m a big girl already.”

She finally said that she miss our mom!

Vinia, you made me proud.

Maga na ang mga mata ko sa kakaiyak pero patuloy pa rin ang mga luhang ayaw tumigil sa pagdaloy. Kung pwede ko lang ilagay ang sarili ko sa posisyon ng kapatid ko, ay matagal ko ng ginawa.

Pinagdadasal kong sana ako nalang yung may sakit.

Sana ako nalang yung nahihirapan.

---

🌈🙃

E.F.G-20

“Ate Levi, am I beautiful like you?”
Vinia asked while lying on her bed.

I’ve been taking her pictures using my camera since she asked me to do it. She said she wants to show it to mom once she arrives. I’ve been taking her pictures since she’s a baby, but it’s painful for me to do it today. Seeing her look pale and sick made me feel torn inside.

“Yes, Vinia. You look like a princess.”
I honestly said.

She moved her head to face the window of her room, looking at the sunset. The race of the sun made her face ethereal. She’s the prettiest child in my eyes.

“I-I wanna see my prince too.”
she blurted, almost a whisper.

Binaba ko ang camera sa side table at hinawakan ang kamay niya.
“Really? Do you have a crush with someone?”

“Y-Yes po, ate.”
she shyly confessed.

I held her blushing cheeks.
“W-What’s the name of your lucky prince?”

“Yaddie!”
Vinia squealed.

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko nung marinig ko yun sa kanya.
“Yadriel? You mean, the younger brother of Doc. Yadiel?”

She enthusiastically nodded.

Di akalaing sa murang edad ay mayroon na siyang iniibig. Napakagat ako ng aking labi para pigilan ang paghikbi. Seeing her face, I could tell that she’s really in love, but it instantly changed in just a snap.

“A-Ate, I wanna see mama and Yaddie for the very… last t-time.”
she cried in despair.

The thought that she

knew she wouldn’t last any longer makes my heart break into piece
s.

Yadiel said that my sister couldn’t withstand excessive treatments. Her blood pressure dropped as well as her temperature. Unfortunately, Vinia’s survival rate was very low.

I was sobbing so hard and my tears won’t stop from falling. Hindi ko kayang makita siyang umiiyak at nawawalan ng pag-asa.

I was taking a nap on Vinia’s bed when I heard loud noises from the hallway. I stretched my arms and wore my jacket before I stepped outside.

“OMG si Ezra! Dali pa-picture tayo!”

“Ezra, pwede pa video greet ako?”

“Pa-autograph naman ako, Ezra?”

Iyan ang ilan sa mga narinig ko mula sa mga tao pagkalabas ko ng room ni Vinia. Hindi na ako nagtaka nang makita si Ezra na nanginginig sa takot habang pinalilibutan ng ilang pasyente. He’s only wearing a pajama shirt and pants while a lot of people are taking his pictures.

“EXCUSE ME!”
Malakas kong sigaw, dahilan para sa akin mapunta ang kanilang atensyon.

I quickly took off my jacket while walking towards Ezra’s direction. I covered his face before I walked him out of the crowd. I’m hugging him, hoping it will make him feel comforted. 

Tinanggal ko rin sa kanyang ang jacket nang makapasok kami sa room ni Vinia.
“Ghorl, sabi ko sa’yo wag mo ako puntahan di’ba?”
I’m not mad. I just didn’t expect to see him here after I gave them a heads up about my sister’s condition.

My shoulders shrugged when Ezra gave me a tight hug.
“Kumusta? Nasaan na si…”
He surveyed the whole room, and his lips parted when he saw Vinia on her bed.
“Oh, God!”

Ezra was covering his mouth as he walked towards the bed of Vinia. He probably didn’t expect to see her in that condition.

I caressed his back.
“Hey, don’t cry. Papangit ka niyan.”

Humarap siya sa ‘kin.
“Paano ako hindi iiyak, Levi? Bata palang si Lavinia. Hindi dapat siya nagkakasakit nang ganito.”

Bumaling ang tingin namin ni Ezra sa pinto nang pumasok si Yadiel. He’s wearing black silk long sleeves underneath his white lab coat. He brought his stethoscope and it’s wrapped around his neck.

“Should I…leave?”
Yadiel hesitantly asked while looking at me.

Ezra shook his head
“No, I will leave.

May bibisitahin pa akong isang pasyente, babalik nalang ako Levi.”

“Babalikan ka namin nila Kyle.”
Ezra whispered before he leave the room.

Yadiel held my waist and pushed my body towards him after Ezra left us alone. Kaagad naman akong napakapit sa leeg niya dahil sa sobrang pagkagulat.

“I didn’t know you have a fashion model friend…”
Yadiel said with a grin on his face.

I pouted my lips.
“Wag mo ng subukang landiin ‘yon, kung ayaw mong mabato ng semento.”

He leans closer to my face.
“Don’t worry, Ezra’s not my type. I’m crazy in love with his friend in front of me.”

I pushed him away when Vinia move from her sleep. Yadiel winked at me before he check my sister’s condition. I know that he’s tired from his whole shift, but he never forget to check my me and my sister every night. He’s always there for me when I need someone at my side.

He also paid all the medical expenses of Vinia without asking for my permission. I assured him that I will pay for it in the future and he just agreed. Malaking halaga iyon pero alam kong barya lang iyon sa kanya. Nalaman kong pamilya niya ang may-ari ng Romero Medical Hospital na may mga branches di lang sa Pilipinas kundi sa iba pang mga bansa.

It’s Sunday afternoon and my whole squad joined us in the park to play some games. Vinia was in her wheelchair and was permitted by the doctor to go out. It’s her only request; that’s why they allowed her.

“Ate Levi, come on, you can do it!”
Vinia cheered me while I was holding a string to make her kite go up in the sky.

“Go, Levi! Go!”
sigaw nila Kyle, Ezra at Zein.

We are all wearing casual clothes, maliban kay Ezra na may suot na facemask at scarf. We wanted to surprise Vinia this day and I asked my squad to be my accomplice for my plan to succeed.

After a few minutes, I was able to make the kite float in the sky. It was such a breathtaking moment and all of our faces immediately formed a smile.

Napatingin kami kay Vinia nung magsimula siyang umiyak habang binabasa ang nakasulat sa saranggola.

“I missed you, anak!”

Lumapit si mama mula sa likuran ni Vinia at tinakpan ang mata nito gamit ang kanyang mga kamay. Lahat kami ay nagpipigil ng luha habang nakamasid sa kanilang dalawa.

Vinia was sobbing.
“M-Mama, ikaw na po ba ‘yan?”

Inalis ni mama ang kanyang kamay at pumunta sa harap ni Vinia para bigyan ito ng mahigpit na yakap. Nakatingin na sa amin ang ilang mga tao pero hindi na namin ito ininda.

“Oo, a-anak. H-Hindi na aalis si mama. Patawarin niyo a-ako kung ngayon lang ako nakauwi.”
Our mom whimpered.

Vinia raised her pinky finger.
“P-Promise, mama?”

Our mom nodded before she locked her pinky finger at Vinia.
“P-Pupunta tayong Disneyland kapag… gumaling ka. Kaya please be strong anak. N-Nandito kaming lahat para sa ‘yo. D-Di ka namin iiwan.”

Vinia cupped the face of our mom.
“C-Can we also bring Yaddie along?”

Our mom wiped the tears of Vinia.
“Oo naman. K-Kahit sino pa ‘yan basta gumaling ka lang, anak.”

Niyakap ako nina Kyle, Ezra at Zein nang di ko na napigilan ang paghagulgol. Parang dinudurog ang puso ko kapag nakikita silang umiiyak.

Mas masakit para sa akin.

---

🌈🙃

E.F.G-21

Warning: This chapter contains

death that may not be suitable for sensitive readers.

“…the prince kissed the princess and they live happily ever after.”
Our mom ended the story of the book she’s reading for Vinia.

Vinia tried to smile after hearing our mom.
“Do you also think I’m a princess, mama?”

“Of course! You are the prettiest princess in the world.”
Mom uttered.

“R-Really? Even if I’m already… thin and… pale?”
She asked, sounding unsure.

I sat on the side of Vinia’s bed.
“Yup! You are the fairest of them all.”
I conclude while combing her soft hair with my fingers.

She turned her head back to our mom.
“Mama, ayoko ko na pong pumunta ng… Disneyland.”

“Huh? Bakit naman? I thought you want to go there?”

Vinia played with her fingers.
“A-Alam ko pong hindi na ako… gagaling. I-I wanna change my wish, mama.”

Mom scratched her eyes, wiping her tears.
“Anong wish mo… anak?”

Vinia forced herself to sit on her bed.
“I want to see my prince. I miss Yaddie. He promised he will marry me once we grow old. I’m big now, mama. Can I… marry him before it’s too late?”

Binaling ko ang aking mukha palayo kay Vinia. Tahimik akong umiiyak habang pinapakinggan siya. My eyes were already sore because of too much crying.

“Sino ba itong si Yaddie at lagi mong bukambibig?”
My mom asked curiously.

Bumukas ang pinto at iniluwal non si Yadiel. His face instantly formed a smile while looking at our mom. He’s holding the medical record of Vinia.

“Yaddie is my little brother po… Tita.”
He said while raising his brows at me, trying to send his flirty signal.

Our mom stood up from her sit to welcome Yadiel.
“Doc. Maraming salamat po sa pagtulong niyo sa amin. Nalaman ko pong binayaran niyo ang bills ng anak ko, babayaran ko po kayo agad.”

Yadiel tapped my mom’s shoulder.
“Hindi na po kailangan basta para sa anak niyo, tutulong po ako…tita.”

I faked a cough.
“Babayaran ka pa rin namin. Wala ng libre sa panahon ngayon, lahat may kapalit.”

He just nodded as he walked towards the bed of my sister. Yadiel checked Vinia’s heartbeat using his stethoscope and just looked intently at my sister’s weak eyes.

Yadiel sat on my sister’s bed and whispered.
“D-Do you wanna see Yaddie, Vinia?”

My sister bit her lip, trying to stop herself from the urge of crying.
“Y-Yes po. That’s my only wish Tito Yadiel.”

Yadiel held the face of Vinia.
“Okay. I’ll bring Yaddie with me. Please be… strong. Y-Yaddie wants to see you too.”

I saw the glimpse of hope on my sister’s face.
“I-I will wait for… him.”

Yadiel advised us to keep an eye on Vinia and never leave her side from now on. Vinia’s condition got worsen. Her breathing has long pauses and her skin turned slightly bluish especially her hands and feet.

We’re only counting her last days.

Parang pinagsakluban ako ng langit at lupa nung marinig ko iyon. Lahat ng pangarap ko para sa kapatid ay naglahong parang bula. I feel like I’m slowly dying as well, just like my sister.

If I could just transfer her illness to me, I would be glad to oblige, but it’s impossible.

I was busy peeling some fruits for mom and Vinia when I heard voices chattering outside of the room. Napailing nalang ako nung ma-realize ko kung sino ang mga nasa labas.

“Ghorl, ako na sa lobo. Sa ‘yo na tong malaking poster, Zein.”
boses yun ni Ezra.

Kyle whispered.
“Wag nga kayong maingay. Zein, ikaw na magbukas ng pinto.”

“Bakit ako? Marami rin akong dala.”
pagdadahilan naman ni Zein.

Di na ako nakatiis at lumapit sa pinto para pagbuksan sila. I was shocked to see them wearing Disney Princess outfits with their wigs on. Kyle was dressed as Snow White, Ezra as Belle and Zein as Rapunzel.

Naalala kong gusto ni Vinia na magpicture kaming lahat habang nakasuot ng disney princess na damit pero di ko inasahan na gagawin nila. Pinagtitinginan na sila sa labas ng ilang pansyente at mga nurse kaya pumasok din sila kaagad sa loob ng room.

I saw how surprised Vinia’s face was when she saw my squad wearing fancy dresses. She tried to sit from her bed and clapped her hands while chuckling.

“Wow! You all look beautiful!”
she exclaimed.

Ezra raised both of his hands that were holding a pair of garment bags.
“You and Levi should be princesses too, right?”

Binaba ni Kyle at Zein ang mga hawak nilang balloons at poster sa side table at nilabas ang makeup kit na galing kay Ezra. Tinulungan nila si Vinia na magpalit ng damit at napaawang ang aking labi nung makita siyang suot ang Sleeping Beauty outfit.

Napakaganda niya.

They just put a light amount of makeup on her face. Her eyes looked tired, but she managed to look cheerful because of my squad’s surprise.

Nagpalit na rin ako ng damit. I’m wearing a Cinderella outfit and I can’t believe they also brought a glass slipper. Hinahanap ko sa loob ng bag ang kaparehas pero hindi ko ito makita.

Hindi ko na iyon pinansin at nilagyan namin ng ilang design ang room ni Vinia. Hinihiling ko na sana’y hindi magalit sa amin si Yadiel kapag nahuli niya kami. I’m willing to pay for the consequences as long as it will make my sister happy.

I was currently standing over a stool chair while decorating the wall when the door opened. Gumalaw ang upuan kaya napasigaw ako pero nasalo naman ako agad ni Yadiel.

He’s carrying me like his bride and that makes me feel blushed. Nakita ko ang pagkagat niya sa kanyang labi habang nakatingin sa mga mata ko. Alam kong nagulat din siyang makita akong ganito ang suot.

“Ehem!”
Kyle and Ezra intruded.

Binaba naman ako agad ni Yadiel at napatakip ng aking bibig nang lumuhod siya sa harap ko at isinuot ang kaparehas ng glass slipper na kanina ko pa hinahanap.

Hindi ko inaasahan na nasa likod pala ni Yadiel si mama kaya naitulak ko siya kaagad.

He groaned.
“Levi, why did you push me away? I feel like my back broke.”

Kaagad naman din siyang tumayo nang mapansin si mama sa likod niya. Kaagad niyang binati si mama at lumapit kay Vinia na tahimik lang na naghihintay ng sasabihin niya.

“Remember my promise to you yesterday?”
Yadiel uttered.

Vinia gently nodded.

“I-I brought your prince along with me.”
Yadiel started to stutter.

Vinia cried from so much joy after hearing Yadiel. She surveyed the whole room, trying to find Yadriel.

“W-Where’s Yaddie.., Tito?”
she asked, while wiping her tears with her back hand.

Maya-maya pa ay bumukas ang pinto at iniluwal nito si Yadriel. Masaya kaming napatingin sa taong matagal ng hinahanap ng kapatid ko. He’s finally here. Yadriel is wearing prince charming outfit. He’s already sobbing when he entered the room.

We stood from the corner of the room, trying to give them enough space to see each other. Pinilit tumayo ni Vinia pero kaagad siyang pinigilan ng batang si Yadriel. Pinahiga niya si Vinia pabalik sa kama at umupo siya sa gilid nito.

Yadriel cried heavily.
“S-Sorry Vinia, if I came late. It’s… really hard for me to see you l-like this.”

Vinia touched the face of Yadriel with her trembling hand.
“D-Don’t cry, Yaddie. You made my… life happy.”

Tahimik kaming umiiyak sa gilid habang nakatingin sa kanilang dalawa. I tried to gasp for air when I felt like I couldn’t breathe because of too much crying. My heart felt heavy from the pain that I was feeling.

Tumunog ang mabagal na kanta mula sa hallway ng ospital. That’s A Whole New World from Aladdin. Vinia sings the song while holding the face of Yadriel.

”

A whole new world”

”

A dazzling place I never knew”

”

But when I’m way up here”

“It’s crystal clear”

“That now I’m in a whole new world with you”

“P-Please be my… prince charming again in my next life, Yaddie. I’ll promise to live happily ever after with…you.”
That’s the last words from Vinia before she closed her eyes.

In the fairytale, Sleeping Beauty awakened after her prince charming kissed her…

While… Vinia slept peacefully after Yadriel kissed her goodbye.

---

🌈🙃

E.F.G-22 (SPG)

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

.

“You’re still the best photographer that we have here at Lens Media Studio, Levi.”
Mrs. Llanera concluded while looking at my portfolio.

My lips formed a smile.
“Thank you for trusting me, Mrs. Llanera.”

Isang buwan na ang nakalipas simula nung iwan kami ni Lavinia. Sinubsob ko ang aking sarili sa pagta-trabaho, dahil hindi rin naman ganon kalaki ang kinikita ni mama sa pagiging kasambahay. Sinunod niya ang kanyang pangako na hindi na siya babalik sa Qatar.

I haven’t seen Yadiel since we paid our debt for Vinia’s hospital fees. He tried to reach out to me before, but he stopped because I wasn’t answering any of his calls. 
Hindi ko na rin ulit nakita ang ilan niyang bodyguards na dati akong sinusundan.

All of my past relationships were all failures, so I’m afraid to give him a chance. I cannot deny that my heart still beats for Yadiel. Whenever I remember him, I always feel motivated. He became one of the reasons why I kept on going. 

“Dito na po tayo, s-sir.”
The taxi driver said while looking at me in the rear-view mirror.

Napatingin ako sa bintana ng taxi at tumambad sa akin ang isang night bar. Sa dami ko ng napuntahang clubs at bars ay nakapagtatakang hindi pa ako nakapunta dito.

I turned my head back to the driver.
“Sigurado po ba kayong ito yung location na nasa phone ko?”

He just nodded in response.

Inabot ko ang bayad at bumaba ng taxi. Tumigil ako sa tapat ng bar habang mahigpit ang hawak sa aking portfolio na may lamang sample photos ko. Hinabilin sa akin ni Mrs. Llanera na nandito ang possible buyer na bibili ng aking photographs kaya ako na ang nag-presintang pumunta.

I didn’t expect that this buyer would meet me at a place like this, so I was surprised. I rolled my eyes at the men who were smirking at me while smoking in the open area. They must be enjoying what they’re seeing since I’m just wearing a loose western shirt, slim fit slacks, and a pair of white flat shoes.

I released a deep breath before I entered the bar. It’s already been a month since the last time I visited a place like this, so I got deja vu when some of the guys turned their heads in my direction. Hindi ko kilala kung sino ang bibili ng sample pictures ko, kaya pinalibot ko ng tingin ang buong bar.

I noticed a guy who’s sitting on a bar stool chair while sipping his whiskey. He gave me a wink while raising his hand. He’s wearing a business suit and pants. I just smiled at him playfully before I walked towards his direction.

He has a fine face and body structure. It’s been a while since I played with a guy, so I guess he could be one of them. I’m also wondering if I still had the charm that could make them crazy once I left them hanging.

“Mr. Abella?”
I asked after I sat on the high stool chair beside him.

The side of his lips rose up when he noticed I was biting my lower lip.
“Y-Yes, this is him. I guess you’re Levi Sullivan, am I…correct?”

I stared at him for a brief moment before I shook my head.
“Wrong answer, Mr. Tiger. Could you please try again, hmmm…?”

Nagulat ako nang bigla niyang hatakin ang bewang ko at paupuin sa hita niya. Napakapit ako nang mahigpit sa kanyang leeg sa sobrang pagkabigla.

”
You must be my Amore…”
He said in a husky voice.

Madilim ang parte kung saan kami nakaupo kaya hindi ko na ininda ang ilang matang nakatingin sa amin. I rubbed my finger on the collar of his suit while looking at him seductively. He was about to kiss me when someone punched his face.

My eyes widened when I saw Yadiel sending death glares at the man I’m flirting with. Kasama niya ang ilan niyang bodyguards kaya napagawi sa aming direksyon ang mga tao. Kuyom ang kamao ni Yadiel at mabilis ang kanyang paghinga.

“What the fuck, dude?! You must be insane.”
mapang-asar na wika ni Mr. Abella nang makatayo siya. Pumutok ang kanyang ibabang labi sa lakas ng pagkakasuntok ni Yadiel.

Yadiel forehead creased.
“Yes. I’m now fucking insane, so don’t you dare touch what’s mine before I can do worse than an uppercut punch!”

Mabilis na hinarang ng mga bodyguards si Mr. Abella nung akmang lalapit siya kay Yadiel. Hindi na ako nakapalag nung bigla akong hilahin ni Yadiel palabas ng bar habang mahigpit ang hawak sa aking palapulsuhan.

Mabilis niyang pinaandar ang kanyang BMW car nung makasakay ako sa shotgun seat. Napakapit ako sa aking seatbelt sa takot na baka ito na ang huli kong mga sandali. He’s still panting heavily and he’s gripping tightly on his steering wheel.

Napahawak ako sa aking bibig nang tumigil kami sa isang hotel. Bumaba si Yadiel mula sa driving seat at pinagbuksan ako ng pinto. Dala ko ang aking portfolio nung bumaba ako ng kotse.

Napakabilis ng mga pangyayari at di ko na namalayan na nasa loob na kami sa isang VIP suite room. Nilapag ko sa side table ang portfolio na kanina ko pa hawak. Nakaupo si Yadiel sa King Size bed habang nakatakip ang mukha gamit ang kanyang dalawang kamay.

Somehow, I feel guilty for him. He must have been disappointed with me, but I haven’t done anything wrong. I clearly told him that I didn’t want to be in a relationship again.

His eyes were bloodshot when he looked at my face.
“Levi, sino yun? Bakit ba kung saan-saan ka pumupunta?!”

I gave him a sarcastic laugh.
“Bakit ka ba sumisigaw? Nagseselos ka ba—”

“Fucking yes! Oo Levi, nagseselos ako pero alam kong wala akong karapatan, dahil hindi ka naman akin…”
He admitted.

I crosssed my arms over my chest.
“You cannot blame me, Yadiel. Tao lang ako, may pangangailangan din. He’s hot and he must be good in bed—”

He yelled.
“Mas magaling ako dun! You already tried me, right? I can be your fucking buddy if that’s what you want, Levi. I just… can’t control myself when I’m seeing you with other guys.”

I rolled my eyes.

“You’re awakening the beast out of me when you’re rolling your eyes, so don’t trigger me, Levi.”
He warned me.

I gave him a smirk and intentionally rolled my eyes again. Napasigaw ako nang bigla niya akong hatakin palapit sa kanya. Agad niya akong niyakap sa bewang habang nakasubsob ang kanyang mukha sa aking tiyan.

I hit his back.
“Y-Yadiel, stop it.”

That’s a lie. I really missed him so much. His face, body and presence. I’ve been longing for him, but I’m afraid to admit.

He bit my tummy, gritting his teeth.
“I wanna fuck you till you can’t walk anymore so you won’t leave my side.”

Yadiel guided my waist down on the bed. He kissed my lips torridly while holding my nape to deepen the kiss. Hindi na ako makahinga sa tindi ng kanyang halik kaya marahan ko siyang tinulak.

I’m panting heavily.
“W-Wait…”
I raised my hand telling him to stop for a minute while I’m catching my breath.

He bit his lower lip, feeling worried.
“S-Sorry, Levi. Let’s go back—”

I moved my self on top of him and started to unbutton his long sleeves.
“You’ll be my fuck buddy starting from now on, Doc. Romero.”

---

Continuation of the Mature Content in the next chapter;)

E.F.G-23 (SPG)

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

.

“Don’t leave a mark—ahhh!”
I screamed when Yadiel bit my neck. I didn’t expect to see him this aggressive before. His hands are squeezing my ass while planting kisses all over my body. 

He kissed the part of my neck that he bit. ”
S-Sorry, Levi. I’ll treat you later. ”
He went back to my lips and ravished them like a beast. 

Napakapit ako sa kanyang leeg nang bigla niya akong buhatin pababa ng kama. Napaawang ang aking labi nang ibaba niya ako sa tapat ng veranda at putawarin sa harap niya.
I moaned when I felt his tongue twirling at my entrance. 

“Ugh! Yadiel, stop it! It tickles.”
I hummed while holding the grills tightly. I’m trying to stop myself from making any noise, but I can’t stop it when he’s doing that. I spread my legs wider to give him more access.

I sighed when he stopped.

“I think we should start.”
He warned me before he positioned his hard shaft in front of my entrance. He’s rubbing the tip of his cock in between the cheeks of my ass and it’s making me pissed.

“Yadiel, come on just insert your—ugh! Fuck!”

I yelled when he pushed his shaft inside me. Napakagat ako ng aking labi nang magsimula siyang gumalaw. He’s guiding my waist to meet his slow thrusts.

“Just bear with it, Levi. I’ll be careful.”
Yadiel assured me. He bended over to kiss my nape while his hands are playing with my nipples.

I groaned.
“Y-Yadiel, Ugh! I-I’m tired of standing. C-Can we just go back to bed?!”
I ordered him.

He began to thrust me harder.
“Shit! No Levi, let’s just stay like this. I want to see your legs tremble until you can’t stand anymore. ” 

Mas lalo pa niyang binilisan ang kanyang pag-ulos, dahilan para mas humigpit ang kapit ko sa grills.
My legs are shaking and we’re both sweating, even though the night breeze is cold.

The room filled with our moans and groans. Yadiel keeps on pounding me and I’m just enjoying the ecstacy that I’m feeling. I bended myself more and I’m now pushing myself to meet his hard thrusts.

“Ugh! Levi, I’m cumming…”
He warned in a hoarse voice.

I turned my face on my back to see him. His eyes screamed lust and excitement. He’s gripping my waist very tight for support. Yadiel gave me few hard thrusts before he spilled his juice inside me.

He immediately caught me when I fell down. I felt weak and I just wanted to rest after that. 
Kaagad akong sumubsob sa dibdib niya nang buhatin niya ako. Nakayakap ang aking mga binti sa kanyang bewang, at mahigpit ang aking kapit sa kanyang leeg.

He had already cum, but I could still feel his fully erect cock poking my ass. My lips parted in shock when Yadiel took me inside the bathroom. He slowly put me down in the bathtub before he smirked at me. 

“Levi, let me plant my… seeds inside you again.”
He confidently said while stroking his hard shaft in front of me.

I swallowed the lump in my throat. Seeing him stroking himself makes him hotter. The side of his lips rose up when he noticed me watching his hard cock.

 

“You want to taste this?”
He teased while holding his enormous member.

I nodded my head to give him a sign. He got closer to me, and his cock landed on my face. I quickly cupped his shaft using both of my hands and stroke it for him.

Yadiel growled.
“Shoot! Faster, Levi! Ugh, Fuck!”
He put his hands on the back of his head. He’s catching his breath while enjoying how I’m pleasuring him. 

I twirled my tongue on his balls while stroking his fully erect cock.
“Doc, I want to know what the taste of your juice is, hmmmm…
” I said, using my playful voice. 

“Let me give it to you, Levi.”
He told me before he guided my head and pushed it into his member. I immediately opened my mouth and sucked on his cock. Halos mabilaukan ako nang bigla niya iyong ipasok ng buo sa bibig ko.

“Ugh! Arghhhhhhh!”
Yadiel keeps on moaning and growling while moving his waist to fuck my mouth. 

I’m holding his abs for support since his hard member was making me choke. He stopped moving and pulled out his shaft to kiss my lips.

He’s now sweaty too.
“I wanna fuck you again, Levi. Would you allow to have another round with… me?”  

There’s something about Yadiel’s eyes that will make you agree if he asks you for a favor. The burning desire in his eyes was evident and I can feel that he’s sincere to ask for my permission. Pagod na ako at masakit na ang aking likuran pero hindi ko na iyon ininda.

I kissed him torridly while stroking his hard shaft. He was making me breathless when his tongue entered my mouth. Yadiel sucked my tongue when he found it, making me squeal from the temptation I was feeling. 

Mabilis ang kanyang galaw at di ko na namalayan na nakaupo na rin siya sa bathtub. He guided my waist on top of his lap while he slit his middle finger in my entrance.

“Y-Yadiel, p-please… give it to me.”
I gave him a heads up to let him know that I’m ready.

He sucked my lips down to my neck. I moaned in surprise when he pushed my lap down to his raging member. Kaagad kong niyakap ang kanyang leeg para doon kumuha ng lakas.

Yadiel keeps on thrusting me and I’m starting to feel sore on my back. He sucked my nipple hoping it could lessen the pain that I’m feeling. And I’m glad it worked.

I hit his hard chest.
“S-Stop it, Yadiel. Nakikiliti ako—ahhhh!”

Yadiel didn’t let me finish my words when he guided my shoulders to turn his back at him. Napatuwad ako sa bathtub at mahigpit na humawak sa faucet nang sinimulan niyang umulos sa likod ko.

“Fuck! Fuck! Ang sikip mo, Levi! Ugh!”
He growled while thrusting me. He’s squeezing my ass as he continues to fuck me. 

The sound of our bodies meeting each other filled the bathroom. I could feel his every inch while he was moving on my back. 

He’s freaking huge!

And based on his performance, he could literally fuck me all day long without feeling tired. I know he must be exhausted from his shift at the hospital, so I’m wondering where he’s getting his strength.

“Levi, I’m coming…”
He warned me again.

I moved my hips to meet his thrusts, urging him to keep on going. I yelled so loudly when he took out his shaft and spilled his warm load on the cheeks of my ass. 

 

He bent down to kiss my lips. I felt so tired and vulnerable. He cupped my face to deepen the kiss, and I responded to him. 

“I’ll make sure that you’ll love me the same way I love you, Levi.”
Yadiel declared.

I just yawned, feeling sleepy. I hugged him again before I fell asleep. I could feel him rubbing my back while planting soft kisses on my forehead.

I think I love you too, Yadiel
.

 

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-24 (SPG)

Minulat ko ang aking mata nung maramdaman ang brasong mahigpit na nakayakap sa bewang ko.
I turned my face to my back and saw Yadiel cuddling me. I tried to remove his arms from my waist, but he groaned. 

“Levi, wag mo ‘kong iwan, dito ka lang.”
He said in a hoarse voice.

Nakapikit siya at mukhang nanaginip pero alam niyang ako yung yakap niya. I bit my lower lip, trying to resist the urge to smile. I held his face and reached out to give him a kiss on his lips.

He opened his eyes and his lips formed a smirk.
“D-Did you just… k-kiss me?”

Agad akong umupo sa kama nung marinig ko iyon sa kanya. I really thought he’s sleeping that’s why I kissed him without having hesitation.

“H-Hindi no! B-Bakit naman kita hahalikan? Never ako naunang humalik sa k-kahit… sinong lalaki!”
I really sounded guilty and it’s making me pissed when he pursed his lips.

He’s enjoying this for sure!

He bit his lower lip.
“So, ako palang yung lalaking una mong hinalikan? Tama ba ako, Levi, hmmm…?”
He asked while twirling the belt lace of the bathrobe that I was wearing.

I hit his flirty hand when he started to untie the lace of my bathrobe.
“B-Bumangon ka na dyan, baka ma-late ka na sa work mo.”

He removed the comforter that’s covering his lower body. Napaiwas ako ng tingin nung makitang wala siyang suot na kahit ano. I cleared my throat when he cupped my face, forcing me to look at him.

“I told you, ayokong nakikita kang tumitingin sa iba. Sa akin ka lang mag-focus, Levi.”
He stated while looking intently at my eyes.

I made a scrunch face.

He laughed.
“Are you… blushing? You look so adorable, Levi.”

I’m a hundred percent sure that he’s teasing me. Of course, I’m not the one who should only feel pissed. The feeling should be mutual too.

I immediately grabbed his cock and stroke it with my right hand. His lips parted in shock when he felt my fingers playing with his shaft. Napatingala siya sa ceiling at huminga nang malalim.

“L-Levi, stop. Hindi ka pa… magaling. Ugh! Please.”
He pleaded but I didn’t mind him.

He must be worried about my ass when he banged me last night. Tulog ako pero alam kong inasikaso niya ako kagabi. He dressed me up, cleaned me, and also applied an ointment on my ass to lessen the soreness that I was feeling.

I’m not gonna let him fuck me this morning. I just want to see his face while I’m pleasuring him.

“Shit! D-Don’t do this to me, Levi. Baka di ako makapagpigil at tuluyan ka ng hindi makalakad.”
He uttered.

I shrugged. Without wasting any time, I pushed him on the bed. I lowered my face to his hard member and licked the tip of it. His hands are gripping on the bed sheet and he’s panting heavily.

He moaned when I sucked his shaft. I’m trying to open my mouth wide, but his whole length won’t fit.
I gave him a deepthroat while he’s guiding my head down.

His load spurted on my face when he reached the climax. He immediately wiped my face using his hands; worry was evident in his eyes.

He gave me a soft kiss.
“Let’s have a date, Levi. I already filed a leave in my job, so I’m free today.”
That didn’t sound like an offer.

I pouted my lips, trying to think of a good answer.
“Ililibre mo ako?”

He chuckled in disbelief.
“Of course, I can be your sugar daddy if you want.”

Pinahiram ako ni Yadiel ng pinagliitan niyang damit. Habang naliligo si Yadiel sa comfort room ay tinawagan ko na si mama para ipaalam na hindi ako makakauwi. Alam kong nag-aalala siya sa dami kong natanggap na text at tawag mula sa kanya. Maya-maya pa ay lumabas na rin si Yadiel sa wakas pagkatapos kong maghintay nang matagal.

He’s wearing a black henley shirt, dark rinse jeans and a pair of casual boots. Napakamot ako ng batok nung mapansing halos magkaparehas kami ng suot.

I sighed heavily.
“Magpalit ka nga, ayoko ng may kaparehas na damit.”
I said in an irritated voice.

He stamped his feet, throwing tantrums.
“No! Gusto ko parehas tayo. Ayaw mo ba nun? Mukha tayong couple…”

I turned my back.
“Bahala ka, hindi na ako sasama—”

I stopped when he suddenly hugged me from behind.
“Don’t be mad at me, Levi. It’s making me sad. I’ll just buy all of your photographs that you brought last night, hmmm…?”

Ayoko sa clingy na lalaki pero hindi ako nakakaramdam ng inis kapag si Yadiel ang dumidikit sa akin. Parang nakikipag-karerahan ang tibok ng puso ko sa bilis ng takbo nito.

“Hindi mo na kailangang bilhin. Sasama na ako, baka ipa-kidnap mo pa ako.”
I blurted.

In less than an hour, we arrived at a Balinese-inspired vacation resort. Agad naman kaming pinapasok ng guards ng resort nung sabihin ni Yadiel na VIP member siya. Hanggang ngayon ay hindi ko lubos maisip kung gaano kayaman ang isang Doc. Yadiel Romero. Base sa nakikita kong interior ng resort, ay hindi nakapagtatakang malaki ang binayad niya para maging isang VIP member.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Romero. Let me assist you to your table.”
The waitress offered.

Yadiel held my hand as we walked towards the center table inside this exclusive restaurant. May mga ilang tao din na kumakain at marahil ay VIP members din ang mga ito. Most of them are wearing business suits. I can see familiar faces of actors and models that are having their lunch as well.

Kasalukuyan kaming nakaupo habang naghihintay ng order nang biglang tumunog ang cellphone ni Yadiel. He opened his phone to check the caller and I saw him sighed heavily. He declined the call and smiled at me like nothing happened.

“Bakit di mo sinagot? Paano kung importante ‘yon?”
Pagtataray ko.

He shook his head.
“Wag mo ng pansinin, hindi naman mahalaga—”

Yadiel didn’t finish what he’s saying when his phone rings again. Looks like it’s the same caller since I saw his brows furrowed in frustration.

I rolled my eyes.
“Sagutin mo na yan, wala pa naman yung food, eh.”

He stood up from his seat and bowed down a bit so he could kiss my forehead. I saw some of the customers looking at us, but Yadiel seems unbothered. He tapped my head and gave me a wry smile.

“I’ll just take this call, babalik ako agad. Please behave for me.”
He ordered.

I couldn’t believe that I nodded at him in agree. Mabilis naman siyang lumabas sa veranda para sagutin ang tawag. Hindi ko naririnig ang boses ni Yadiel pero hindi maganda ang kutob ko. Kinakabahan ako sa di malamang dahilan.

I hope my instincts were wrong. I just couldn’t admit it, but I already love him, and it will surely break my heart if he does something to hurt my feelings. 

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-25

I was busy playing with my fingers while waiting for Yadiel to come back when I saw a familiar face from the lounge. Kumaway ako agad nung pumasok siya ng restaurant at nakangiti siyang lumapit sa akin.

I stood up from my seat and gave him a welcoming hug.
“OMG! How are you?”

Gellian covered his mouth, trying to resist the urge to laugh.
”

Grabe! Para namang ang tagal nating ‘di nagkita.”

I tapped his shoulder while giving him a genuine smile.
“Congrats pala sa blockbuster mong movie.”

Highschool friend namin si Gellian.
He was the puppy love of Zein way back then, but he left the country to study abroad after he graduated from high school. Gellian is now an award-winning actor in Germany, and he’s finally back here in the Philippines after 6 years.

 

He nodded and smiled proudly.
“Salamat, Levi. May kasama ka ba?”

Yadiel intruded.
“Yes. Levi’s with me.”
Kaagad lumapit sa akin si Yadiel at pumagitna sa amin ni Gellian. His forehead was creased, and he was definitely not in a good mood while looking at Gellian. 

 

Gellian offered his hand to Yadiel.
“Pare, I’m Gellian Zamora. Kaibigan ako ni Levi.”
Walang bahid na takot na pagpapakilala ni Gellian.

Tinanggap naman iyon ni Yadiel.
“Yadiel Romero. Nice to meet you.”
He said in a flat tone with a grin on his face.

“P-Pare, yung kamay ko mababali!”
Bakas ang kirot sa mukha ni Gellian sa higpit nang pagkakahawak ni Yadiel sa kamay niya.

“Don’t worry, I’m a doctor so I can treat your injured hand.”
Yadiel assured him after he took out his hand from Gellian.

Maya-maya pa’y tinawag na si Gellian ng ilang mga co-actors niya kaya umalis na rin siya agad. Bumalik kami sa table ni Yadiel nang dumating ang order namin. Nilapag sa table ang ilang mga seafood dishes. There’s a shrimp pasta, bourbon-glazed salmon, and tuna noodle casserole. I remember posting something on my Instagram that I miss eating seafood, and Yadiel left a heart emoji in the comments. 

“T-Thank you, Yadiel.”
I whispered when I finished eating.

“Para saan?”
He asked after he wiped his mouth with a tissue.

I couldn’t look at him. I feel like I’m about to cry, and I don’t want him to see my vulnerable side. 

I bit my lower lip.
“Sa… lahat-lahat ng natulong mo sa ‘kin. Sa pagbili mo ng mga photographs ko. Sa pagliligtas mo sa ‘kin ng maraming beses at lalo na kay…”
  The tears that I was trying to resist fell from my eyes. 
“V-Vinia.”

Ngayon lang ako nagkaroon ng lakas ng loob na magpasalamat sa kanya. Napakaraming beses niya na akong tinulungan at ‘ni minsan ay wala siyang hininging kahit anong kapalit. Napakaswerte ng taong mamahalin niya at gustuhin ko mang ako iyon, ay hindi ako karapat-dapat.

I want Yadiel to be with someone as successful as he is. Someone who can support and understand him. Someone whom he can be proud of. 

Yadiel stood up from his seat and walked towards me. Lumuhod siya para bigyan ako nang mahigpit na yakap. He then wiped my tears using his hands.
“Please… don’t cry, Levi. Nasasaktan din ako,”
He pleaded.

I stopped from sobbing and tried to calm myself down.
“Let’s go, Yadiel. I wanna… ask you for a date this time.”

Ngumiti naman siya at inalalayan akong tumayo. Lumabas kami ng resort at sumakay sa car ni Yadiel. He was holding the steering wheel with his left hand while his free hand was holding my hand. He would always kiss me on my cheek if the stoplight turned red and he had to stop from driving. 

“Yadiel, ang bagal mo! Halika na dito!”
Sumbat ko sa kanya nang magsimula akong lumusong sa dagat.

His arms are crossed over his chest and he slowly shook his head.
“Ayoko, di ako marunong… lumangoy.”
He confessed in almost a whisper.

I chuckled and let him hear it.
“Ililigtas naman kita, eh. This time, ako naman yung magliligtas sa ‘yo.”

He tsked before he took off his branded shoes and folded his pants. Bakas ang pagda-dalawang isip sa mukha ni Yadiel pero hindi na siya nagreklamo. Dahan-dahan siyang lumapit sa akin at mahigpit akong niyakap nung maabot niya ako.

I was about to remove his arms when he whispered in a husky voice.

“Don’t let me go, Levi. No matter what happens, please don’t… push me away.”
Pagsusumamo niya.

I rubbed his back when I noticed that he’s whimpering. Maraming lalaki na akong nakitang umiyak sa harapan ko pero kay Yadiel lang ako nakaramdam ng lungkot. Di ko namalayan na umiiyak na rin ako.

I took a deep breath.
“I-I’m not going to… let you go, so stop crying.”

Kaagad naman siyang kumalas sa pagkakayakap at binigyan ako nang matamis na ngiti. His eyes are filled with joy, hope, and excitement. I know he didn’t expect to hear that from me.

“T-Talaga? Totoo ba yung… narinig ko, Levi?”
He asked curiously.

“Oo, kaya wag ka ng mag-drama. Doctor ka, hindi ka artista.”
I teased before I splashed the sea water on him, using both of my hands to stop the awkwardness between us. 

Hindi ko namalayan na inabutan na kami ng gabi sa dagat. Napakabilis ng oras kapag kasama ko siya. Kung pwede ko lang hilingin na huminto ang oras ay ginawa ko na.

Niyaya ko na siyang bumalik sa resort kung saan kami galing kanina para makapag-pahinga. He’s been yawning since earlier, and it makes my heart melt that he chose to spend his day off with me rather than taking a rest.

Kaagad namang nakatulog si Yadiel pagkatapos niyang maligo nung makarating kasi sa VIP Room. I was lying on the bed beside him, and I couldn’t help but admire his peaceful face while he was sleeping. He will be back at work tomorrow, so I’m trying not to disturb him.

My shoulders shrugged when I heard my phone ring. Kaagad naman akong tumayo at kinuha iyon sa bedside table. I was hesitating to answer it when I saw that it was a call from an unregistered number.

I cleared my throat before I answered it.
“Hello? Who’s this?”
 

“Am I speaking with… Levi Sullivan?”
The girl, with an authoritative tone, asked. 

“Y-Yes, you’re speaking with Levi.”
Nauutal kong sabi. Hindi ko gusto ang tono ng pananalita ng babaeng kausap ko.

I heard her sigh.
“I’m willing to buy all of your photographs. Meet me by tomorrow and I’ll send you the location.”

I smiled after hearing the good news.
“Thank you—”

She cut me off disrespectfully.
“No need to thank me. I’m doing this for someone who’s very… important in my heart.”
She declared before hanging up the call.”

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-26

“Sigurado ka ba talagang ayaw mong samahan kita? Paano kung-”

“Babae ‘yon, wag kang mag-alala.”
I assured Yadiel while I was helping him button his long sleeves.

Sinabi ko kasi sa kanya na hindi niya na kailangang bilhin ang portfolio ko dahil meron ng possible buyer. Ayoko namang isipin niya na inaabuso ko yung kabaitan niya. He offered to take one of his bodyguards to accompany me, but I declined.

He gripped my waist to get me close to him.
“Levi, mahal kita.”

I think my whole world stopped when I heard him confessed out of nowhere. Nakatingin lang ako sa kanya at walang lumabas na salita mula sa aking bibig. Napakabilis ng tibok ng puso ko at parang gusto na nitong sumigaw na mahal ko rin siya,

Pero di ko ginawa.

I smiled guiltily.
“T-Thank you, Yadiel.”

Disappointment was evident in his face. Yadiel gasped and took a step backward. He opened his drawer and got a navy blue necktie, which he wore quickly.

Alam kong nasaktan ko siya pero hindi ako yung karapat-dapat para sa kanya. He’s a successful heir of Romeros, while I’m just nothing. He’s the sky from above that I won’t be able to reach no matter how hard I try.

Alas-10 na ng umaga nung makauwi ako. Medyo may kalayuan kasi ang resort kung saan kami nag-check in ni Yadiel sa condo ko. Nakangiti naman akong yumakap kay mama nung makita ko siyang kumakain ng tanghalian.

She rubbed my back.
“Saan ka ba galing, anak? Kanina pa kita hinihintay dahil may maganda akong balita sa ‘yo.”

I took a glance at her.
“Ano naman pong good news ‘yan at kailangan niyo pa talaga akong hintayin?”

“May pasyente ako na may ari ng isang art company sa Switzerland, at naghahanap sila ng mga aspiring artists kaya ni-recommend kita, anak.”
My mom proudly remarked.

I chuckled in disbelief.
“Ma, hindi naman ako ganon kagaling na artist. Tsaka baka painter yung hanap nila

, photographer naman po ako.”

I just dropped the topic and started eating my lunch that she prepared for me on the table. I keep checking my phone, but there’s still no update from the buyer who called me last night.
I just ate as quickly as I could so I could prepare while waiting patiently.

Nakapagbihis na ako pagkatapos kong maligo nung matanggap ko ang text message mula sa buyer na kanina ko pa hinihintay. She sent me the exact location where I should meet her. I’m wearing a plaid casual longsleeve shirt, kitty denim pants, and a pair of leather panel shoes. Nag-apply na rin ako ng light makeup just to cover my dark circles under my eyes.

Pinara ko ang taxi sa isang fine dining restaurant. Muli kong tiningnan ang text message na natanggap ko bago ako pumasok sa loob. I held a tight grip on my portfolio when a waitress guided me inside.

Napaawang ang labi ko nung mapansing walang ibang customers maliban sa isang babae na nakatalikod sa center table. I dragged my feet and walked towards her direction. I have experience dealing with possible buyers before, but this is the first time that I felt this nervous.

I gaped in disbelief when I saw the woman’s face. Kung hindi ako nagkakamali ay siya yung kasama ni Yadiel sa airport nung umuwi ako ng Pilipinas. Nakasuot siya ng floral silk dress at bumagay iyon sa puti at hubog ng kanyang katawan.

Her hair was tied in a sleek top knot.
Her ears, neck, and wrist are filled with luxury jewels. This woman in front of me screams power and confidence, which makes me feel intimidated by just getting close to her.

She raised her eyebrows when she noticed my presence.
“You can feel free to sit down, Levi.”

She casually said my name, as if she knew me personally. Kaagad naman akong umupo at nilagay ang portfolio sa gilid ng lamesa. Binigyan ko siya ng pilit na ngiti dahil hindi ko nagugustuhan kung paano siya tumitig sa akin.

She offered her hand. ”
I’m Jazmine. I guess you’re familiar with my face, right? We met in Japan airport two months ago.”

I took her hand and shake it gently.
“Y-Yes, I remember taking your picture before.”

Mabilis niyang tinanggal ang kamay niyang hawak ko at kumuha ng tissue.
“I’m not the only one in that picture that you took. I’m with… my special someone. Did you forget, Levi?”

Napakagat ako ng aking labi nung marinig ko ‘yun sa kanya. Her special someone is none other than Yadiel. I gasped for air trying to stop myself from the urge of crying.

Ang tanga mo, Levi!

Bakit ka ba naniwala kay Yadiel na ikaw lang yung mahal niya?

Niloko niya ako, kung kailan handa na akong tanggapin siya…

I snapped back to reality she slapped my face.
“How dare you flirt with my lover? Did you know that Yadiel should’ve married me if you hadn’t intruded on us?”

I wiped my tears using the sleeves of my shirt.
“S-Sorry, lalayuan ko na siya-”

“As you should, Levi! His parents needed him in the Neitherlands, but he decided to stay here because of a trash like you!”
She crossed her arms over her chest. 

I nodded guiltily, urging her to go on.

”
I couldn’t believe that he would choose a gold digger instead of taking care of his ill mother and pursuing his dream of becoming a successful doctor!”
Jazmine yelled in frustration.

My vision got blurry because of the tears tentatively falling from my eyes. My whole world shattered and my heart broke into tiny pieces. I just wish I could wake up from this terrible dream.

Ganon ba ako kamahal ni Yadiel para ipagpalit sa sarili niyang pamilya at pangarap?

Is that the reason why he told me not to let him go and asked him to stay?

I was surprised when Jazmine lend me a tissue to wipe my tears.
“Levi, please stay away from Yadiel. I’m asking you to break up wth him. He’s not the one for you.”

She put a check on the table and left me hanging. My heart leaped after hearing her last words. I buried my face in my hands and cried heavily.

Habambuhay nalang ba akong masasaktan?

Minsan nalang ako magmahal ng totoo, bakit kailangang sakit pa ang maramdaman ko?

Hindi ko alam kung anong pumasok sa utak ko at pumunta ako sa isang bar. Gusto kong uminom hanggang sa makalimot kahit alam kong imposible. Kahit alam kong hindi iyon mangyayari.

The bartender was already stopping me from drinking, but I kept on pouring more whiskey into my glass as I sat on the stool chair. I tossed the glass away and gulped it down without hesitation. 

My phone ring and I saw Kyle calling through our group chat. Kaagad ko naman itong sinagot. Nakita ko ang pagkagulat sa mukha nilang tatlo nung aksidente kong ma-open ang video call icon.

Ezra opened the lights from his vanity table.
“L-Levi, nasaan ka? Bakit ang ingay ng backgroud mo? Don’t tell me, nasa bar ka?”

“Levi, lasing ka na yata? Gusto mo tawagan namin si tita para masundo ka?”
Kyle suggested.

Zein put his phone down and wore a hoddie jacket.
“Ako na magsusundo. L-Levi, wag mong ibaba yung tawag. On the way—”

I cutted them off.
“Sawa na ako!”
I yelled.
“B-Bakit kasi… hindi ako kasing successful niyong tatlo? Bakit hindi ko kayang ipaglaban yung… mahal ko? B-Bakit lagi nalang akong nasasaktan?!”

Never in my life have I felt jealous of someone’s achievement, especially when it comes to my friends. I’m actually the proudest person when they reach their success.

Ngayon lang.

I just finally realize that I don’t fit to be a member of Rainbow Squad. Simula kasi nung highschool, nangarap kaming apat na magiging tagumpay balang-araw. Pero ako yung napag-iiwanan. Habambuhay nalang yata akong magiging proud sa kanila.

Si Kyle ay nasa France at nagtatrabaho sa magandang kompanya. Si Ezra naman ay nasa U.S at nagta-trabaho bilang isang fashion model, habang si Zein ay tagapagmana ng napakaraming resorts, hindi lang sa Laguna kundi pati na rin sa iba’t-ibang parte ng Pilipinas.

Bakas ang pag-aalala sa mukha nilang tatlo nung sinabi ko iyon. Walang nagsalita, dahil alam nilang totoo ang sinabi ko. Marahil ay lasing na ako, kaya ko ‘yun nasabi.

I cleared my throat, trying to calm myself down.
“S-Sorry ghorls, naparami na yata ako ng inom. Wag mo na akong puntahan, Zein. Aalis na rin ako. I’m so… happy for all of your success. I love you all, my Rainbow Squad!”
That’s what I said before ending the call.

Nilapag ko sa counter table ang cheke na binigay sa ‘kin ni Jazmine at naglakad paalis. Madilim na ang paningin ko dahil sa sobrang kalasingan at ramdam ko na rin ang pagkahilo. I leaned my head against the wall, feeling exhausted. My eyes were blurry, but I could still see Yadiel entering the bar. He looks like he’s in a rush since he’s still wearing his lab coat and his long sleeves are tangled.

Yadiel walked towards my direction, and grabbed my wrist, guiding me out from the bar. He’s panting heavily and his gripping my hand tightly.

I removed his hand that’s holding mine when we reached the parking lot. He turned his head to face me. I cannot fathom the emotions in his eyes.

I leave out a heavy sigh.
“Let’s stop this, Yadiel.”

Fuck! This is torture.

---

🌈🙃

E.F.G-27

He didn’t answer for a long time. He must be waiting for me to admit that I’m kidding or just playing with him. I looked at his eyes where I fell in love the first time I saw him. Those eyes that made me feel safe and secure. His gaze that always sends shivers down my spine.

“L-Let’s stop… seeing each other, Y-Yadiel.”
I whispered, almost stuttering every word.

Hinawakan niya ang dalawa kong balikat at yumuko.
“P-Please Levi, don’t… do this to me. Handa kong ipagpalit ang lahat… makasama ka lang.”

I shrugged my shoulders.
“Tinanong mo ba ako, kung… gusto kitang makasama?”
I lied.

He cupped my face, making me focus on him. ”
Is it because of what Jazmine told you? Did she ask you to push me away, so I can go back to Neitherlands? Levi, I need you to… tell me the truth…”

“Nagsasabi ako ng totoo Yadiel, kaya makinig ka!”
My voice thundered.
“I didn’t feel even a slight affection towards you, so don’t choose me over your family and your own dream.”

Hinawakan niya ang dalawa kong kamay at lumuhod.
“Levi, please don’t… let me go. I-Ikaw yung gusto kong makasama sa pag-abot ng pangarap… ko.”
He pleaded.

I wiped his tears using my trembling hands when I saw it falling from his eyes. I tried to pull him up from bending his knees, but he didn’t flinch. Nakaluhod lang siya sa gitna ng madilim at tahimik na parking lot.

He held my hands again and kissed it.
“M-Mahal kita, Levi. Nagmamakaawa ako. Please ask me to… stay.”
He hugged my waist and whimpered after saying those words.

“H-Hindi na ako hihiling na m-mahalin mo rin ako… Sapat na sa ‘kin yung makasama ka, L-Levi.”
His voice broke.

My chest tightened and my face already soaked with my own tears. Napakasakit sa akin ang makita siyang nagmamakaawa. Pilit kong pinapatatag ang sarili ko na huwag siyang bigyan ng rason na piliin ako.

I want him to chase his dream, even if it means my heart being shattered in return.

I composed myself before I removed his arms from my waist. He didn’t leave my eyes when he forced himself to stand up. I felt a pang in my chest when I saw the tears rolling down his cheeks. 

“Palayain mo na ako, Yadiel. H-Hindi kita… magagawang mahalin kahit anong pilit mo.”
I said in almost a whisper.

His eyes were dreary and he didn’t answer for a long time. Nakatingin lang siya sa mga mata ko na wari mo’y binabasa kong nagsasabi ako ng totoo. Taimtim ko siyang tiningnan pabalik.

”
I’m not worth fighting for—”

He yelled to cut me off.
“You are, Levi! Kayang-kaya kitang ipaglaban… kung bibigyan mo lang ako ng p-pagkakataon.”

“Parehas lang tayong masasaktan kung pipilitin natin ang… isa’t-isa.”
My voice quiverred.

Yadiel forced himself to smile, but his tears were still falling from his cheeks. He wiped my tears away while nodding his head. 

”
I don’t know when I will come back… so please take care of yourself. T-Tandaan mong m-mahal na mahal kita, L-Levi.”
He held my chin up.
“Hindi na yata ako… ulit magmamahal kung hindi lang rin ikaw.”

Ganon din ako.

Ikaw lang din yung minahal ko ng ganito,

But I need to let you go.

Muli niya akong niyakap bago tuluyang umalis sa harap ko. Gusto ko siyang sundan. Gusto ko siyang habulin at sabihing mahal ko rin siya,

Pero di ko ginawa.

Alam kong ito ang makakabuti para sa aming dalawa.

Napaupo ako at humagulgol nung tuluyan na siyang mawala sa paningin ko. Napakalamig ng gabi at sinasabayan ng hangin ang aking bawat hikbi at pangungulila sa kanya.

I was shocked when someone tapped my back.
“Mr. Sullivan, tumahan na po kayo. Ihahatid ko na po kayo sa condo niyo.”

I turned my face at the man who was beside me, and I saw one of the bodyguards of Yadiel. I smiled flatly and shook my head in disagree.

“I’m… fine.”
I hissed.

He took a deep breath.
“Hindi po pwede, Mr. Sullivan. Hinabilin po kayo sa akin ni big boss.”

Wala na akong nagawa kundi sumunod sa kanya. Nakasakay ako sa passenger seat ng van at nakatulala habang nakadungaw sa bintana. Pinagdadasal ko na sana’y tama ang naging desisyon ko na ipagtabuyan si Yadiel dahil para rin ito sa aming dalawa.

“Oh my god! Levi!”
Kaagad akong niyakap ni Zein nung makita akong naglalakad sa hallway ng condo.

Niyakap ko naman siya pabalik at doon na ako humagulgol ng sobra-sobra. Hindi ko pala siya kayang iwan. Hindi pala ganon kadali.

“M-Mahal ko siya, Zein. Tama naman yung… ginawa ko, ‘di ba?”
I said between my sobs.

Zein nodded while rubbing my back, trying to calm me down.
“Tama ang ginawa mo, Levi. Rainbow Squad are here to support you.”

Kaagad naman akong tumawa nung marinig ko iyon kay Zein. Di ko inaasahang makarinig ng pagdamay mula sa kanya. Wala man sa Pilipinas sina Kyle at Ezra ay alam kong nag-aalala din sila sa ‘kin.

Bakas ang pag-aalala sa mukha ni mama nung pumasok ako sa condo kasama si Zein. Nakita kong hawak niya ang ilang litrato ni Yadiel na lihim kong kinunan nung nasa ospital kami. My mom ran towards me and gave me a hug.

“Kakayanin mo ‘to, anak. Alam kong matatag ka.”
Her comforting voice makes my heart feel at peace.

I just nodded in response.

I badly want to forget Yadiel; that’s why I followed my mom’s request to go to Switzerland. I decided to take a different path and pursue painting. It was really hard, at first, but I became better as the years went by.

After 3 years of hardwork, I was able to create my first ever painting that will be sold in an auction with the help of my mentor who guided me. Marami na akong naipinta at sobrang dami na ring humanga sa aking kakayahan bilang isang pintor.

Tatlong taon.

Tatlong taon ang nakalipas at akala ko’y hindi ko na siya ulit makikita, akala ko’y nalimutan ko na siya pero hindi pa rin pala. Pilit kong inabala ang sarili ko sa pagpipinta pero siya pa rin ang inspirasyon ko sa aking bawat obra.

Parang gusto kong mag-walk out ng stage nung makilala ko kung sino ang bumili ng painting ko sa halagang 2 billion pesos. Hindi ko inaasahang makita siya dito sa World Auction Records pagkalipas ng tatlong taon.

“Yadiel Kristoff Romero is my name, nice to meet you.”
He introduced himself proudly while looking at my eyes.

This is freaking karma, that’s what I told to myself angrily.

---

🌈🙃

E.F.G-28

Yadiel’s Pov

I graduated from the best medical school in the U.S. The successor of the entire Romero’s Medical Hospital all over the world. An obedient son, a caring brother, and a loyal person—that’s how you can describe me.

I got it all.

I have the looks and the body that most girls fantasize about, but the only girl who I fell in love with cheated on me. 

”
Yad, maniwala ka sa ‘kin… hindi ko magagawang lokohin ka. I-Ikaw lang yung mahal ko.”
Jazmine pleaded while holding my hands.

She’s only wearing a bathrobe and looks like she just had a great time with the guy naked on her bed. I couldn’t believe that she would have the audacity to cheat on me. I gave her my all. I showered her with all my time and love. I even bought most of the expensive bags, makeup, and accessories just to make her happy, but it seems like it’s still not enough.

I bellowed, tears falling from my eyes.
“Fuck! Jazmine, h-how?!”
I scoffed.
“How could you do this to me?”

She bended her knees as he reached for my clenched fist when I was about to punch the guy on her bed. I looked at her with a confused expression.

She’s crying her heart out.
“Please… wag mo siyang s-saktan. Just let him go, Yad.”

“Bakit? Wag mo sabihing mahal mo rin ang lalaking yan!”
I pointed at the guy.
“Damn it! Jazmine, kakagaling lang natin sa Japan tapos may bago ka na agad?!”

She didn’t answer and just looked down on the ground, feeling guilty.

I wiped my tears when I felt them forming up in my eyes. I’m disappointed in her. I even introduced her to my family because I thought of marrying her. I just found myself drinking in the bar with my friends, hoping it could lessen the pain that I was feeling.

Then I saw him again. I still remember the first time we met. It was such a random day, but meeting him made it memorable. 

“I’m sorry.”

He mumbled after he bumped into me.

Nakayuko siyang lumuhod para kuhanin ang reseta sa kanya ng doktor pero naunahan ko siyang makuha iyon.

I unintentionally read the dortor’s test result for him, and I found out he was a traumatic patient. 

I lowered my head, so I can see him.

“Are you, okay?”

I asked before I touched his shoulder.

When he lifted his head, my lips parted in awe. His face screamed dominance and seduction. He had a pair of golden eyes, a sharp thin nose and kissable plump lips. 

He rolled his eyes before he removed my hand that was holding his shoulder. Irritation was evident in his face, and I gulped when I realized that I could be the reason why he became in a bad mood.

Padabog niyang kinuha ang reseta na hawak ko.
”

Ano? Gusto mo rin ako? Magsama kayo nung doktor na nakausap ko!”

sigaw niya sa ‘kin bago tuluyang umalis.

Napahawak ako sa aking bibig sa sobrang pagkabigla.

I didn’t expect to see such a strong personality from that small body of his. I turned my face in his direction and saw him walking away from me. 

Sadyang mapaglaro ang tadhana nung muli ko siyang makita sa Japan makalipas ang isang taon. He looks scared and agitated because of the old man who harrassed him. I didn’t waste any time and called my guards before I threw an uppercut punch to the old man’s face. 

I caressed his shoulder, trying to calm him down.
“Hey, okay ka lang? May masakit ba sa ‘yo?”
Sunod-sunod kong tanong nung makita ko ang namumutla niyang mukha.

“Yes, I do.”
He mumbled.

My heart skipped a beat after hearing his voice again. I’m not sure what he meant by his statement, but it makes me feel soft for him.

“Sorry, Yadiel, but I need to get back to my friends.”
He didn’t hesitate to remove my hands from his waist when I tried to flirt with him at the bar. 

He’s not just a good-looking person, but he’s also a loyal friend. Mas lalo akong humanga sa kanya nung mas piliin niya ang mga kaibigan niya kesa sa ‘kin nung gabing iyon. He gave me back the jacket I gave him, and I grabbed that chance to simply slide a paper with my phone number on his fitted pants. 

Tatlong araw.

Tatlong araw na akong naghihintay ng tawag mula sa kanya pero wala akong natanggap. Masyado akong natulala sa mukha niya kaya nalimutan kong itanong ang pangalan niya. I was in my office at Romero Medical Hospital while fidgetting on my phone when one of my hired men called. 

“Big boss, nakita na po namin yung pinapahanap niyo.”
Bungad na sabi sa ‘kin pagkasagot ko ng tawag.

I hysterically stood up from my seat.
“Nasaan?!”

Wala akong pakialam kung pinagtitinginan ako ng mga kapwa ko doktor at ilang mga nurse nung tumakbo ako palabas ng ospital habang nakasuot ng labcoat. I’m a great doctor, but I couldn’t express my own feelings. I was panicking, feeling excited, and my heart was beating so fast, especially when I saw him in the center of the mall. 

“Shhhhh… you’ll be fine. Breathe in and breath out.”
I uttered while I was hugging him. His face has the same expression as what I saw in Japan. He’s trembling and he looks so scared. 

The moment he nodded in response, is the moment I realized that he’s the one I want to protect. If I were his comfort, then he’d be my shelter, my home, and my peace. 

“Levi.”
He said in a flat tone when I asked his name.

I actually knew his name already because I even hired someone to find his whereabouts, but I still wanted to hear it coming out of his sexy lips. 

“Can I kiss you, Levi?”
I blurted without even thinking.

Fuck! Ano bang sinabi ko? Nahuhulog na ba ako sa kanya?

I saw him swallow a lump in his throat before he removed the earpiece of my stethoscope and threw it away.

The stethoscope that he threw from afar is a 3m Littmann Core Digital Stethoscope that cost a million when I bought it from a great doctor in the U.S, but I didn’t mind it when I finally tasted his plump lips.

We made out that day and it was such a memorable experience. Levi is a tiger and I am a lion of the jungle. Di na ako nagdalawang isip na bilhin lahat ng photographs niya nung mapag-alaman kong binibenta niya iyon sa Art Exhibit.

He’s a photographer and I think it suits him since he captured my heart without even trying. I felt possessive when it comes to the point that I even asked my men to follow him from afar just to make sure he’s safe. Levi is a head-turner, so I hired more men to make sure that no one can flirt with him except from me.

Yes, I was fucking obsessed with him. I badly want to claim him as mine so I can protect him as my own. I couldn’t express how happy I was when I became his fuck buddy. I admitted that I’m not content enough, but that’s way better than having no connection between us at all. 

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-29

I was busy admiring the stolen picture of Levi when my phone received a call.

“Big bro, mom is sick and we need you. I thought you would come here after a few weeks. What’s taking you so long?”
tanong sa ‘kin ng nakababata kong kapatid na si Yadriel nung sagutin ko ang tawag.

Matapos kasing mawala ang kapatid ni Levi ay pinabalik ko na si Yadriel sa Neitherlands kung nasaan sina mom at ang main branch ng buong Romero Medical Hospital. The only reason why I came here in the Philippines is to check on the hospital’s facility and run some research on medical fields. I didn’t think that Levi would make me change my mind. 

Minahal ko siya ng sobra at handa akong piliin siya kesa sa sarili kong ambisyon. Hindi ko magagawang iwan siya dahil natatakot akong wala na akong balikan. Natatakot akong mapunta siya sa iba pero mukhang wala na akong magagawa nung huli kaming magkita.

He removed my hand that was holding him when I guided him out from the bar. Kaagad naman akong napatingin sa kanya at bakas ang lungkot sa kanyang mukha.

”
L-Let’s stop… seeing each other, Y-Yadiel.”
Levi mumbled.

Hinawakan ko ang dalawa niyang balikat at yumuko.
“P-Please Levi, don’t… do this to me. Handa kong ipagpalit ang pangarap ko, m-makasama ka lang…”

Siya na yung pangarap ko. Akala ko noon, kontento na ako sa pagiging magaling na doktor pero siya pala yung kulang para maging masaya ako.

Levi shrugged his shoulders, making me remove my hands off him.
“Tinanong mo ba ako, kung… gusto kitang makasama?”

Fuck! All this time, I thought he had already loved me as well. I thought he would fight for me because I’m willing to fight for him against any battle that comes our way.

Hinawakan ko ang dalawa niyang  kamay at lumuhod.
“Levi, please don’t… let me go. I-Ikaw yung gusto kong makasama sa pag-abot ng pangarap ko.”

Isang “oo” lang ang gusto kong marinig sa kanya at kontento na ako. Hindi ako maka-diyos na tao pero nagdadasal akong ipaglaban niya ako habang hinahalikan ko ang mga kamay niya.

“M-Mahal kita, Levi. Nagmamakaawa ako. Please ask me to… stay.”
Yumakap ako nang mahigpit sa bewang niya at di alintana ang kirot ng aking puso.

My heart was bleeding in pain, my brain was shouting his name, and my own self was rebelling against me.

“H-Hindi na ako hihiling na m-mahalin mo rin ako… Sapat na sa ‘kin yung makasama ka, Levi.”
My voice broke.

Levi removed my arms from his waist. Dahan-dahan akong tumayo mula sa pagkakaluhod habang nakatingin sa mga mata niya. Malabo na ang paningin ko dahil sa dilim ng parking lot at sa mga luhang patuloy ang pag-agos mula sa aking mga mata.

“Palayain mo na ako, Yadiel. H-Hindi kita… magagawang mahalin kahit anong pilit mo
.
”
Levi whispered while looking intently into my eyes. 

”
I’m not worth fighting for—”

I bellowed to cut him off.
“You are, Levi! Kayang-kaya kitang ipaglaban… kung bibigyan mo lang ako ng p-pagkakataon.”

“Parehas lang tayong masasaktan kung pipilitin natin ang… isa’t-isa.”
Levi’s voice quiverred.

I couldn’t help but to feel miserable after hearing that from him. Lahat ng pangarap ko kasama siya ay naglahong parang bula. Ang dami kong gustong sabihin sa kanya, mga lugar na gusto kong sabay naming puntahan, mga alaalang gusto kong sabay naming gawin,

Pero sumuko siya. 

I forced myself to smile, but my tears were still falling from my cheeks. I wiped his tears away while nodding my head. 

”
I don’t know when I will come back… so please take care of yourself. T-Tandaan mong m-mahal na mahal kita, L-Levi

.

Hindi na yata ako… ulit magmamahal kung hindi lang rin ikaw.”

Fuck! Finally, I said it. Siya lang talaga ang taong nagparamdam sa ‘kin ng ganito. Alam ko sa sarili kong nag-iisa lang si Levi sa mundo, kaya hindi na ako maghahanap ng iba kung hindi lang din siya.

“Kristoff, did you hear the news about Levi? He’s now a great painter!”
Masayang bungad sa ‘kin ni Jazmine nung makapasok siya sa office ko sa ospital.

“Of course, Levi is… always great at everything he does.”

I looked at the picture of Levi that I took from my phone when I first saw him in Japan 3 years ago. Tatlong taon na ang nakalipas pero siya pa rin ang laman ng utak at puso ko. Hindi man kami muling nagkita pero masaya ako sa tagumpay niya.

“Nasaan na yung inaanak ko? Bakit ‘di mo sinama?”
Pagre-reklamo ko kay Jazmine.

She already had a daughter from the man she chose over me. Ibinaon ko na sa limot ang panloloko niya sa akin noon at naging masaya para sa kanya.
In the past three years, a lot has changed. My mother survived from breast cancer and is now nearly recovered. Yadriel is now eight years old and has plans to continue his studies in the Philippines. I’m still here in the Neitherlands, and I became the highest-paid doctor in the last tally. I already saved a lot and had almost everything, but I still feel like something is missing. 

No, someone is missing.

“Levi, M-Miles, Sullivan? Big bro, is this the name of the sister of… V-Vinia?”
Yadriel curiously asked while looking at the picture of Levi from Time Magazine.

Mom rolls her wheelchair close to us.
“Do you know that painter, Kristoff? I really loved his painting and I also wanted to see him in person.”
She mumbled while smiling at me. 

Dad caressed the back of mom.
“Well, I guess we could buy his painting at this upcoming auction. We could also ask him if he could pay us a visit.”
My dad suggested this while looking straight into my eyes. 

Mom held my hands, trying to resist herself from the urge of crying.
“We know how much you’ve been longing for him, anak. If you still love him, then we’re all here to support you.”

Kaagad ko siyang niyakap at humagulgol ng sobra-sobra. All these years, they witnessed how miserable I am while counting the days, weeks, months, and years that I can’t even see the precense of Levi. I focused myself on my work, hoping it could lessen the longing that I felt, but it didn’t work. 

No matter how much I tried to forget him, I always found myself looking at his old pictures that I had kept for a long time. No matter how successful I am, I still won’t feel content without him by my side. 

”

Yadiel Kristoff Romero is my name. Nice to meet you.”
I introduced myself to the ringman of the World Auction Records while looking at my
love
after 3 years.

Levi, I’m not going to let you go this time. 

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-30

Levi’s Pov

Bumaba ako agad sa stage at lumabas ng auction room pagkatapos ng picture taking. Parang nagkakarera ang bilis ng puso ko nung makita ko siya pero ayoko na siyang guluhin pa. Tatlong taon ang nakalipas at marahil ay masaya na siyang wala ako sa piling niya.

He already made his name popular as the highest paid doctor and I couldn’t help but to feel proud, even though I didn’t help him at all. I really made a good decision to let him go three years ago and if I would bring back the time, I would probably did the same thing.

“L-Levi, what’s wrong?”
Mr. Klent asked while wiping my tears with his thumb.

Hindi ko namalayang umiiyak na pala ako habang naglalakad palabas. I looked at Mr. Klent and I can’t fathom the emotion in his eyes. I know that he’s worried about me, so I tried to force a smile.

I cleared my throat before I remove his hands on my cheeks.
“I-I’m okay, Mr. Klent…”

Mr. Gustav Klent was my mentor, who taught me how to paint for the past 3 years in Switzerland. He also didn’t leave my side during those times when I felt like a failure and I was losing hope. For the past 3 years, he has served as my father, even though we are not related by blood. He made me understand what it’s like to have a father who will support you in your dreams.

A baritone voice faked a cough from my back.
“L-Levi,”

I turned my face towards Yadiel, and I saw his forehead creased while looking at Mr. Klent. He’s breathing heavily while throwing death glares at the man beside me. He’s a hundred percent mad, and that’s clearly evident. 

I gave Yadiel a wry smile.
“Long time no see, D-Doc. Romero.”
I said in casual tone.

He looked at my eyes the same way he looked at me 3 years ago. His stares always give me comfort, no matter how many years have passed. I noticed that Yadiel had become much more mature. His face still had the Greek god features that I adored the first time I saw him in Japan. His face is still clean and shaved even before. His shoulders became broader, and somehow, I feel like he became much taller. His aura screamed wealth and power. 

Mr. Klent offered his hand to Yadiel.
“Doc. Romero, I’m Gustav Klent, and I was honored to finally meet you.” 

Tinanggap naman iyon ni Yadiel habang nakatingin sa ‘kin.
“It’s my pleasure.”

I shrugged when Mr. Klent tapped my back, trying to send me a random signal.
“I’m actually the mentor of this great painter right here, Levi Miles Sullivan. Thank you so much, Doc. Romero, for buying his first ever sold painting.”

Yadiel put his hands in his pants pockets and sighed heavily.
”

It’s always been my dream to buy the painting of Levi, so no need to thank me, Mr. Klent.”

Their conversation was interrupted when Mr. Klent received a call. He walked away to answer the call, and I was left alone with Yadiel while waiting for him to come back.

Yadiel took three steps closer to me, making my heart race.
“Levi, may I have your number?”

I rolled my eyes before I crossed my arms over my chest.
“W-Why should I give it to you, Doc. Romero?” 

He pressed his lips together to stop himself from smiling.
“Please don’t roll your eyes at me, Levi. I just need your number, so I can reach out to you for the payment of your painting. I bought it for five billion pesos, remember?”

My lips parted in shock.
“Five billion pesos?! Akala ko ba two billion pesos lang?! Bakit sobra yung ibabayad mo?!”
Sunod-sunod kong tanong sa kanya.

He smirked while pinching the bridge of his nose.
“Gusto lang kitang marinig mag-tagalog. I s

till… love you, Levi.”

He’s still the straight-to-the-point Yadiel from before. His smooth and cocky demeanor, which I have always admired, never leaves him. Kung hindi ko lang siya kilala noon, marahil ay kinilig na ako sa sinabi niya.

“Pwede ba Yadiel, tantanan mo na ako! May anak na kayo ng ex mo tapos nagagawa mo pang lumandi!”
I comfront him.

Akala niya ba hindi ko nakikita yung pictures nila sa social media ni Jazmine kasama yung anak nila? The child must be around 3 years old, so I’m sure that he’s the father since Jazmine was head over heels for him when I last saw her. 

He made a frowning face, couldn’t believe what he had heard.
“Anak?! Ano bang pinagsasabi mo—”

Bumusina ang sasakyan ni Mr. Klent, hudyat na kailangan na naming umalis. Mabilis akong naglakad papasok ng sasakyan at hindi na muling sinulyapan si Yadiel. Narinig ko ang pagtawag niya sa pangalan ko, pero di ko na iyon pinansin.

Ang kapal ng mukha niya!

Malandi lang ako pero di ako mang-aagaw ng asawa. Naranasan ko nang mawalan ng ama at ayokong sapitin iyon ng anak nila ni Jazmine.

A few weeks have passed, and I’m glad that I didn’t hear any news from Yadiel. Mr. Klent was the one who coordinated with him in regards to the payment of my painting. I just found myself shocked when I received an alert that five billion pesos had been credited to my account. 

 

Kasalukuyan akong nag-eempake ng gamit dahil babalik na ako sa Pilipinas after 3 years. I already miss my mom and the Rainbow Squad. Talking on the phone is not enough to fulfill the longing that I’m feeling. I had already built my own art gallery in the Philippines, and that’s always been my plan before going back. 

Kyle and Terrence are back together. Kyle became his husband’s permanent secretary, and I’m always updated with their world tours as a couple. Kyle made it clear that it’s for business purposes only, but I doubt that. Ezra is still single since his breakup with Engr. Carlos. I keep on urging him to date someone else, but it looks like he’s not yet moved on. Zein is still busy managing their resorts. They were all successful, and I couldn’t help but feel proud.

“I will miss you, Levi. Don’t hesitate to call me, okay?”
Mr. Klent reminded me between our hugs. 

I caressed his back and nodded my head.
“I will surely do that, even if you didn’t ask. Please take care of yourself, Mr. Klent.” 

Hindi na ako nagpahatid sa kanya papuntang airport dahil madaling araw ang flight. I’m wearing a black turtleneck long sleeve under my Lardini Camel Wool trench coat, fitted jeans, and White Balenciaga sneakers on my feet. I’m holding my passport ticket and my leather rolling luggage as I walk inside the airport.

“Hello L-Levi, can we take a picture together?”
A guy around my age asked me while caressing his nape, probably feeling shy.

I smiled awkwardly before I answered.
“Sure, go ahead.”

Mabilis siyang dumikit sa akin at hinawakan ako sa bewang. Sa tagal kong pamamalagi sa Switzerland ay tuluyan ng nawala ang trauma ko. It’s not an easy journey for me to fully heal. I met a lot of doctors, attended different therapies and even drank medicines to avoid it from happening again. 

Inaabala ko ang sarili ko sa pagbabasa ng magazine sa loob ng eroplano bago ito lumipad nang lumapit sa akin ang isang flight attendant. She looks like she was about to say something, so I gave her a sweet smile.

“Good morning, Mr. Sullivan. Your seat has been upgraded to a first class business seat. Kindly follow me before the plane starts its takeoff.”
She gave me a heads-up.

Sa pagkakaalam ko’y economy class seat ang binayaran ko kaya nagulat ako sa sinabi niya. Tumayo nalang ako at sumunod sa kanya dahil pinagtitinginan na kami ng ilang pasahero.

Parang gusto kong bumaba ng eroplano nung makita ang isang lalaki sa loob ng first class seat. He’s holding a glass of wine while wearing a linen kimono shirt. He gave me an enticing smile when he noticed my presence. 

“Levi, nice to see you again!”
He greeted me before he walked towards my direction and gave me a tight hug.

Yadiel, kailan mo ba ako titigilan?

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-31

Padabog akong umupo sa left side ng business class seat malayo kay Yadiel. Dinala naman ng flight attendant ang maleta ko mula sa economy class seat kung saan ako galing kanina. Mariin akong pumikit at pinilit matulog dahil nahihilo ako sa biyahe.

The plane had already taken off when I suddenly felt like I was about to throw up. Kaagad akong tumayo habang hawak ang aking bibig. Nanginginig ang aking mga tuhod habang hinahanap ang daan papuntang restroom.

Yadiel immediately stood up and walked towards me.
“L-Levi, what’s wrong? Are you okay?”

I couldn’t speak, so I just hit his chest because he was blocking my way. He grabbed my shoulders, trying to make me focus on him. Worry was evident in his eyes.
“Levi, tell me what’s wrong?”
He asked me again, now gritting his teeth.

Kaagad akong yumakap sa kanya at di sinasadyang sukahan ang mamahalin niyang damit. I’m glad that he didn’t push me away. He even caressed my back, trying to comfort the nausea that I was feeling.

“Doc, ano bang ginagawa mo d’yan sa loob? Kanina pa ako naghihintay dito!”
Sigaw ko kay Yadiel sa labas plane toilet.

Umuusok na ang ilong ko dahil kanina pa ako naghihintay sa kanyang lumabas. Napapangisi nalang ako dahil kagaya noon ay ayaw pa rin niya sa marumi. He’s a doctor, so I guess they’re really keen on cleanliness.

The toilet door slightly opens and reveals the face of Yadiel.
“L-Levi, what should I do?”
He blurted.

He looks like a scared kid, so I laughed and let him hear it.
“Why? What’s wrong?”
I teased him.

“I didn’t bring… extra clothes.”

My eyes widened.
“Ano?! Bakit kasi di ka nagdala?”

He scratched his head, flexing his hard biceps.
“Gusto ko kasing masiguro na ligtas kang makakauwi ng Pilipinas, kaya… nagmadali ako dito.”

I shook my head in disbelief.
“Masiguro na ligtas ako? Eh, di mo nga nasigurong may dala kang damit tapos ako pa rin inaalala mo!”

I shrugged when someone tapped my leg. I turned my face to the little girl who was wearing a red dress and was smiling at me. I bent my knees so I could reach her.

“Hello, I want to ush… use the toilet.”
She mumbled.

Hindi ko namalayan ang pagtulo ng aking luha nung maalala ko si Vinia.
This little girl must be around her age. I smiled at her wryly when she wiped my tears with her small hands.

“Did Tito Yad hit you?”
The little girl asked while pointing her finger at Yadiel.

I gave her a tight hug.
“Yad? Did you know him?”
I asked in a soft voice.

The little girl just nodded.

“Just a moment, I’ll make that guy leave so you can use the toilet.”
I assured her.

Kumalas ako sa pagkakayakap sa kanya at pinilit na tumayo. Lumapit ako sa pinto at binuksan iyon nang padabog. Kaagad kong tinakpan ang mata ng bata nung makitang walang suot na kahit ano si Yadiel.

“Ano ba yan, Yadiel? M-Magdamit ka nga!”
Sigaw ko sa kanya habang pinagmamasdan ang paligid.

He covered his private part, but he’s too late since I unintentinally saw it already.
“Wala nga akong damit, eh. Dapat nga ako ‘tong nagagalit kasi sinukahan mo yung damit ko.”

Tiim bagang akong naglakad pabalik sa upuan ko at kumuha ng extra shirt at underwear mula sa aking maleta.
I rolled my eyes before I gave him my clothes. I’m really sure that my clothes won’t fit him, but that’s fine instead of leaving him naked.

“Where’s your mom, baby girl?”
I asked the little kid after she went out of the toilet.

I heard a loud footstep from someone wearing heels. I took a glance at the woman running towards our direction and was shocked when I saw a familiar face.

“Gabbie, Oh my god! I thought I had lost you—”
Her words got cut off when she saw me holding her child.

Kaagad tumakbo ang batang babae na hawak ko palapit kay Jazmine. I probably didn’t notice that the little girl looked familiar because I was busy admiring her cute face. If I’m not mistaken, this little girl named Gabbie is the child of Yadiel and Jazmine. I saw their pictures together on social media when I tried to stalk Yadiel before.

“Mommy!”
Gabbie gave Jazmine a tight hug on the waist.

Kaagad kinarga ni Jazmine ang bata at lumapit sa akin. Saktong lumabas din si Yadiel mula sa cockpit ng eroplano matapos niyang kausapin ang piloto. Nanatili akong nakatayo at hindi alam kung saan ibabaling ang aking mga mata.

Jazmine smiled at me genuinely.
“H-Hi Levi! This is my child, Gabbie. She’s now three.
” She formally said, while carrying her adorable daughter.

My lips rose, and I slowly nodded my head.
”

Congratulations! Gabbie looks like you and… Doc. Romero.”

Nagulat ako nang hawakan ni Yadiel ang bewang ko palapit sa kanya.
“Really? Magkamukha ba kami… nitong inaanak ko?”

I raised a brow.
“Ano?! Inaanak?”

Jazmine chuckled hysterically.
“Yes, Levi. Hindi namin anak ni Yadiel si Gabbie. Paano mangyayari ‘yon? Eh, hindi ka nga niya—”

“Stop! We need to go back to our designated seat.”
Yadiel cut her off.

I’m now seated beside Yadiel on the left side of the business class seat, while Jazmine and Gabbie were on our right. It’s a 16-hour flight and I’ve already done a lot of things to cope with my boredom. Tapos na kaming kumain ng almusal na bigay ng mga attendants nang makaramdam ako ng antok. Hindi ko namalayan na nakatulog na pala ako.

I woke up from my deep sleep when I felt someone hugging me. I gaped when I found myself leaning on Yadiel’s hard chest and he was still sleeping soundly. Mukhang nakatulog na rin sila Gabbie habang karga ni Jazmine sa kabilang side ng eroplano.

I tried to push Yadiel carefully, but he didn’t flinch at all. His arms are tightly locked on my body while my face is still glued to his perfectly toned chest. His familiar perfume sends shivers down my spine. A grin formed on his face when he noticed me looking at him.

His face turned down to see me.
“I miss hugging you like this, Levi.”
He said, in a hoarse voice.

I raised my eyebrows before I pushed him away, making me free from his hug. I can’t deny that I miss him too, but I don’t have the strength to say it. It’s been 3 years and I find it awkward if I say what I really feel for him.

Paano niya nasasabi ang lahat ng iyon nang ganon kadali pagkatapos ko siyang iwan?

Paanong napakadali sa kanyang magpatawad?

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-32

Dumiretso ako sa sementeryo para dalawin si Vinia pagbaba ng eroplano. Yukom ang aking kamao at doon kumukuha ng lakas habang papalapit sa puntod niya. Pero kahit anong pilit kong pigilan ang emosyon ay hindi ko magawa nung makita ko ang litrato niya sa kanyang lapida.

“V-Vinia, ako to… si A-Ate Levi,”
I started to stutter when I sat on the grass beside her.

I caressed her gravestone gently while tracing her face.
“M-Miss na miss ka na ni… Ate. Kumusta ka na? P-Pasensya na kung… ngayon lang ako n-nakadalaw sa ‘yo.”

Tuluyan ng bumagsak ang mga luhang ayaw kong ipakita. Kinuha ko ang maliit kong painting mula sa maleta at ipinakita iyon sa kanya.

“V-Vinia, look! I’m now a successful painter. Look at your face on my painting, y-you look… so beautiful as ever.”

Walang alinlangan kong niyakap ang lapida niya at di alintana ang init ng araw at ang mga taong nakatingin. Nanginginig ang aking mga kamay at puno na ng luha ang aking mukha.

“M-Miss ka na ni Ate…”
I whimpered.
“B-Bakit mo ‘ko… iniwan? S-Sabi mo gusto mo a-akong makitang maging successful? I’m now a famous painter, Vinia. A-Ate Levi, can take you to Disneyland… whenever you want.”

“I… w-will count the days until I can see you again, Vinia.”
I whispered before I kissed her gravestone.

My vision was blurry because of too much crying, and all of the memories of Vinia, since she was still a baby, came back to me. I don’t think I could find a kid who’s more adorable than my little sister. She’s my everything and my inspiration to keep on going.

“Welcome back, Levi!”
bungad sa ‘kin nila Kyle, Ezra at Zein nung makapasok ako sa condo.

Kaagad ko silang niyakap at hindi inaasahang maiiyak ulit sa sobrang pananabik sa kanilang tatlo. I scanned the whole room and saw a lot of balloons and customized posters of me scattered on the floor. Perhaps they were trying to surprise me, but I suddenly came in and ruined their plan. 

“We missed you, ghorl! Ano bang meron sa Switzerland at parang naging glooming ka?”
Ezra teased me.

Zein touched something on my neck.

“Oo nga, shining, shimmering, din itong diamond necklace mo. If I’m not mistaken, this was from David Morris and it’s worth seven million pesos—”

Kaagad kong hinawakan ang kwintas na suot ko.
“Ano?! Teka, hindi sa ‘kin to!”

Kyle covered his mouth.
“Hala! wag mo sabihing… galing to sa Sugar Daddy mo?”

My eyes turned to their backs when I saw my mom holding a cake while walking towards our direction. She was wearing a casual dress with her apron on. Her smile never leaves her face when she finally gets close to me. 

“Welcome back, anak. Sobrang proud kami sa ‘yo.”
Her warm voice made my heart touched.

Napuno ng kamustahan, tawanan at iyakan ang condo at hindi na namin namalayan ang oras. Masaya kaming kumakain ng hapunan sa dining room nung makarinig kami ng nag-doorbell sa labas. Agad na tumayo si mama para tingnan kung sino ang bisita.

“Good evening po. Susunduin ko po sana yung… asawa ko.”
A deep voice of a man caught our attention.

“Nandyan na pala si Kuya Terrence.”
Zein said while looking at Kyle, who was still eating pizza. 

Ezra sighed.
“Ano ba yan? Pasintabi naman sa mga single.”

Kyle chuckled while wiping his mouth before he ran towards his husband. 
Napapangisi nalang kaming lahat habang pinagmamasdan silang magkayakap. I couldn’t deny that somehow I felt envious of Terrence and Kyle’s healthy relationship. I hoped someone would also make me feel treasured and accept my dark past. 

“Welcome back, Levi.”
Terrence genuinely uttered while handing me the bouquet of roses that he was holding. I accepted the flowers while looking at Kyle, who’s now pouting his lips, feeling jealous. 

“Babe, bakit si Levi may flowers tapos ako wala?!”
Kyle yelled, now gripping his waist. 

Terrence held the shoulders of Kyle.
“Babe, hindi naman sa ‘kin galing ‘yan.”

“Kanino?!”
sabay-sabay naming tanong.

Terrence scratched his head.
“Nakita ko lang dyan sa labas ng pinto. May pangalan mo sa note kaya binigay ko sa ‘yo.”

Kaagad ko namang binuksan ang maliit na sticky note at kapagkuwan ay nadismaya nung mabasa ang nakasulat. Hindi ako makapaniwala na hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa rin niya siya nagbabago.

“It’s me, Yadiel. Call me, I’ll be waiting. (099-812-*****)- to my only Levi
.”

It looks like he didn’t change his number after all these years. His number is still saved in my contacts, but I don’t have the courage to reach out to him. I felt gulty about what I did, so it must have been unpleasant to ask about his state.

It’s already midnight and I still can’t fall asleep. I’m planning to purchase some decorations and furniture for my art gallery by tomorrow, so I should be sleeping by now. I’m now lying on my bed while wearing a loose shirt, pants, and a necklace that I got from Yadiel.

Yes. I’m really sure that this expensive necklace came from him. I got my phone and called the number of Yadiel, feeling irritated.

“L-Levi? Is this… really you? ”
He immediately answered the call in just a split second.

I nodded even though he couldn’t see me.
“I’m going to give you back this necklace that I’m wearing. Where can I see you?”

“I’m now in my house. Do you mind coming tonight?”
He seductively asked.

I growled.
“Ulol! Sa tingin mo ba pupunta ako dyan ng madaling araw? I’ll send you the location and you can meet me there at exactly 10 am tomorrow.”
I quickly said before ending the call.

I buried my face in my pillow and forced myself to sleep. It’s been a tiring day and it’s going to be more tiring the next few days once I open my art gallery to everyone.

The scent of pancakes woke me up from my sleep. I immediately stood up when I saw that it was now 12 p.m. when I looked at the wall clock. Pumasok ako ng banyo at naligo nang mabilis. Ang tunog ng pag-agos ng tubig mula sa shower ang nagpagaan sa aking pakiramdam.

“Anak, bilisan mo dyan. Nandito na si…”
My mom uttered while knocking on the toilet door. 

”
Ano pong sabi niyo?”
I raised my voice so she could hear it.

I didn’t hear any response from outside. I slightly opened the shower curtain to look for a towel, but it seems like I didn’t bring any. I combed my wet hair using my fingers before I called my mom again.

”
Ma, paabot po ng tuwalya!”

Maya-maya pa’y bumukas ang pinto ng toilet at iniluwal nun si Yadiel na nakangiti habang hawak ang tuwalyang hinihingi ko.

His lips parted in awe while looking at me. I took a deep breath, trying to calm myself down, but it didn’t work. He’s enjoying the sight that he’s seeing for sure. 

 

I screamed.
“Close the fuckin door, you pervert!”

 

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-33

“Levi, what do you think about this?”
Tanong ni Yadiel habang hawak ang canvas white board.

I scratched my head, losing my sanity.
“Alam mo, dapat di ka nalang sumama sa ‘kin. sabi ko linen canvas, kung ano-ano yung kinukuha mo!”

He put down the canvas he’d been holding and looked intently at me.

“Sorry na, Levi. Wag ka na magalit, I’m not an artist like you so I’m not familiar with this stuffs.”

Nandito kami ngayon ni Yadiel sa Art Depot para bumili ng ilang art materials para sa gallery ko. Hindi ko naman siya pinigilan nung nagpumilit siyang sumama. Kasama namin ang ilan niyang bodyguards na naghahanap din ng mga art materials na kailangan kong bilhin.

“Mr. Sullivan, ito pa ba yung l-linen canvas?”
Tanong ni Butler Chris na matagal ng tauhan ni Yadiel.

Tumayo na ako sa aking kinauupuan pero pinigilan ako ni Yadiel.
“L

Levi, you don’t need to stand up. Just stay seated and we’ll take care of this.”

I growled, not minding the other customers in this shop.
“Hindi tayo matatapos kung hindi ko kayo tutulungan!”
I took a glance at Butler Chris.
“Illustration board po ‘yang hawak niyo Mr. Chris,”

Yadiel took a deep breath before he walked towards the sales lady. I saw the girl’s face lit up with admiration while looking at the face of Yadiel. My lips parted when I saw the girl flirting with him. I didn’t waste any time and quickly got up from my seat.

“Kristoff! I finally found the canvas that I’m looking for. You can now… ”
I swallowed the lump in my throat.
“C-Come back… here.” 

 

Yadiel instantly ran towards me with a grin on his face. He must enjoy seeing me jealous. I was shocked when he kissed me on my cheek, making my heart race.

 

“Levi, you don’t need to ask me to come back to you, because I will still do that even without your permission.”
He whispered in a husky voice. 

I just rolled my eyes, trying to stop myself from the urge to smile. He knows how to make me fall for him even more. He is still the man with the sweet talk. Yadiel can easily get someone with his flowery words, and I’m one of those people.

 

I’m now inside Yadiel’s BMW car after I bought everything I needed. He offered to pay for all of my art materials, but I didn’t allow him to. He’s way too kind to do that considering that we’re not in a so-called relationship and I also had money to pay for my expenses, unlike before.

 

“Congratulations, Levi. You make me proud of what you have become.”
He mumbled while driving his car.

I turned my face to him and nodded.
“Ako din, p-proud din ako… sa ‘yo.”

Yadiel quickly turned his car onto the side road and parked in the available space. He took a glance at my face, and I saw the tears forming up in his eyes. My heart feels broken whenever I see him sad. 

“Marami nang nagsabi sa ‘kin niyan pero… sa ‘yo ko lang ‘yan gusto marinig.”
A lone tear fell from his eyes.

I grabbed my purse and looked for my handkerchief to wipe his tears, but he suddenly got my hand and kissed it. For the past 3 years, I have also tried to date a lot of guys, but nothing beats the way I feel about Yadiel. He just set the bar way too high. 

“I-Ikaw pa rin yung pangarap ko. Levi, mahal pa rin kita.

A lot of years have passed, but you didn’t leave my heart. When you chose to let me go before, my whole world crashed. I’m willing to ask you again a million times to accept me, but I’m afraid that you will let me go again.”

He whispered while holding my left hand.

I want him too. Gusto kong sumugal pero natatakot akong subukan. Paano kung iwan niya ako kapag nalaman niya ang nakaraan ko? Paano kung hindi ako matanggap ng pamilya niya? Paano kung hindi din kami magtagal?

I took my hand from him.
“I-I’m sorry, Yadiel. I’m not the one for you. There are a lot of successful women who can make you happy—”

He cut me off.
“Fuck! I don’t even fucking care about them. Levi, you’re the only one I love. I’m willing to accept you for who you are, so don’t feel worthless. You’re a precious gem that I want to treasure in this lifetime, so let me show you. Let me show you how… special you are to me.” 

I felt my tears falling from my eyes. My heart leaped after hearing him. I couldn’t believe that he would still accept me despite what I’d done to him. I’m so grateful that someone would make me feel treasured and special. 

He caressed my face and kissed my forehead.
“I will not force you to love me just like the way I am with you, Levi. Just give me a chance and I will prove to you how desperate I am to win your heart, am I allowed to do… that?”

I nodded in response, and I saw a glimpse of hope in his face. He gave me a sweet smile while wiping my tears with his thumb. We’re both catching our breaths because of too much crying.

“Levi’s Art Studio…”
He whispered while reading the name of my art gallery when we reached our destination.

Bumaba ako ng kotse at pinagmasdan din iyon.
“Vinia’s always on my mind with every success that I’m achieving.”
I bit my lower lip, trying to resist the urge to cry.
“I hope she’s also proud of me…” 

Yadiel held my hand.
“I’m sure she’s really proud of her ate. She must be happy while watching your success in the sky.” 

I turned my face above and imagine myself smiling to Vinia. Lahat ng mga tagumpay at karangalan na aking natanggap ay sa kanya ko inaalay. Wala man siya sa tabi ko pero alam kong masaya siya sa kung saan man siya naroroon.

“Congratulations for your opening, Levi!”
Kyle gave me a hug when he reached me.

Zein squealed.
“OMG! Parang gusto ko na rin maging painter…”

Ezra handed me the tulips bouquet he’s holding.
“Grabe, iba ka na talaga Levi. May discount ba kami kapag sumali kami sa painting class mo?”

I chuckled and let them hear it.
“Of course! Kahit libre ko pa kayong tatlo.”

It’s been a month since I came back to the Philippines, and I finally opened my gallery to the public. Levi’s Art Studio is located in Makati and is a 2-story exhibition space. The first floor is filled with my own paintings and photographs that can be purchased by possible buyers, while the second floor is where my painting class will be held on weekends.

 

Yadiel has been pursuing me for the whole month as well. He always visits me in the evening after his hospital shift ends. I didn’t decline his offer to always drive me home and for his bodyguards to always look out for me. He’s being way too careful and possessive, which I find irritating sometimes. But I always lost it when he was being clingy and sweet.

“Levi, can you paint me… now?”
Yadiel asked randomly while I was talking to him on the phone. 

“What?! As in… ngayon na mismo?”
Napatingin ako sa wallclock ng kwarto at napahinga nang malalim nung makitang alas-10 na ng gabi.

“Yes, I want it now.”
He clarified with his bedroom voice.

“Yadiel, alam mo namang gabi na. Tsaka hindi ko kayang i-paint ka ng hindi kita kaharap—”

“Then, come here in my house. I’ll be… waiting for you.”
He suggested.

I think I know where this is going. I immediately opened my closet and looked for the black shimmer lingerie, white blouse, and fitted short skirt that I borrowed from Ezra. I smirked while looking at myself in the mirror when I finally wore it.

“You’re done, Yadiel.”
I said to myself before I wore an oversized jacket to cover my under clothes.

---

B

race yourself for the m

ature content of the next chapter.

E.F.G-34 (SPG)

Warning: This chapter contains mature content, so if you’re not 18 yet or a sensitive person, I advised you to disregard this chapter.

I’m now in front of the house of Yadiel and was hesitating if I should knock on his door or just press his passcode, which was my birthday as he told me over the phone. I put a small canvas, acrylic paints and brushes inside the backpack that I was wearing, so I felt very stuffed.

I shrugged when I heard my phone ringing and saw the name of Yadiel. Hindi ko na iyon sinagot at mabilis na binuksan ang pinto matapos kong pindutin ang passcode. Mahigpit ang aking kapit sa doorknob nung makitang madilim ang buong bahay.

“Y-Yadiel? I’m…here—”
Napatigil ako sa pagsasalita nang bumukas ang ilaw sa bedroom. Kaagad kong sinara ang pinto at pumasok sa loob ng bahay niya.

I noticed that the interior of his house was still the same as three years ago. I gulped when I remembered the first time I came here and we made out. It’s one of the most memorable experiences in my whole life. 

I entered his bedroom and was shocked to see my painting hanging on the wall on the top of his bed. That’s Embracing From Grief, which he purchased at the World Auction Records in the United States.

I snapped back to reality when Yadiel came out of the shower wearing a bathrobe. I swallowed the lump in my throat when I saw some drips of water pouring from his hair and the lemon scent of his body soap that sent shivers down my spine.

 

“Let’s start with Levi,”
Yadiel mumbled while untying the lace of his bathrobe. 

I put down my bag and slowly took off my oversized jacket, revealing the sexy clothes that I was wearing. I heard Yadiel clear his throat while looking at how I was dressed. I dragged my feet and sat on a stool chair beside his bed. I intentionally crossed my legs, which was very evident since I was only wearing a striped mini skirt. 

Yadiel immediately took a few large steps closer and grabbed my nape. ”
Just forget about the damn painting! I’m more interested with the artist…” 
He groaned before he ravished my lips.

Napayakap ako sa kanyang leeg nung bigla niya akong buhatin at ibaba sa kama. I moaned when I felt his hands gripping my legs. He sucked my tongue to stop me from making any sound. 

“You’re so… sexy.”
He whispered between our kiss.

I slowly took off his bathrobe and it revealed his perfect toned chest and sculpted hard abs. I tilted my head to the side when he started to plant soft kisses on my neck, making me chuckle because of the tingling sensation.

“Ahhh! Yadiel… m-masakit,”
I moaned when I felt him biting my neck.

He licked my neck, hoping it would lessen the pain that I was feeling.
“Your scent is making me wild, Levi.” 

“Tsk! You should be punished, doc.”
I warned on his right ear using my playful voice.

He stopped kissing me and looked at my eyes.
“W-Why? Levi, I’m sorry—ugh!”

Yadiel groaned when I tighly gripped his crotch. He immediately held my wrist and put it on top of the bed’s headboard. I scoffed when he forcedly tore the blouse that I was wearing. 

I hit his chest.
“That’s not mine, Yadiel! Why did you tear it apart?”

“I’ll just buy you a dozen of the same brand.”
He proudly assured me before he spread my legs wider, making me feel exposed. 

I moaned when he suddenly slid his finger into my underwear. Yadiel kissed my lips before he pushed his finger in my entrance. I delicately wrapped my arms around his neck for support. 

“Y-Yadiel, please I… want you.”
I gave him a heads up.

He lowered his head to face my entrance hurriedly.
“Please bear with me, Levi. I don’t want you to get hurt.”

Napakapit ako nang mahigpit sa bedsheet nung magsimula siyang dilaan iyon. I roughly bit my lower lip to stop myself from moaning, but I lost it when his tongue twirled into my entrance.

“Damn you, Yadiel! Fuck! Ugh!”
I screamed as loud as I could. 

My eyes widened when he covered my mouth with his left hand, asking me to be quiet. I’m panting heavily and I feel so hot in the midst of the breezing cold night. Yadiel’s bed skills are making me feel heaven.

“Every word that comes out of your mouth will add to the times I will fuck you tonight, so make yourself behave, Levi.”
He warned me.

Walang pasabi niya akong pinadapa sa kama at mabilis na pinunit ang skirt na suot ko. I buried my face in his pillow so he couldn’t hear my moan once he started our agenda for tonight. I took a deep breath when I felt him taking off my underwear while biting the cheeks of my ass. 

“You’re so fuckin’ sexy tonight with this lingerie on, so expect that I won’t be gentle.”
Yadiel whispered in a hoarse voice. 

I turned my face to him.
“Just fuckin’ do it!”

He smirked playfully.
“Oops, that’s four words from you, Levi. I guess you want to extend this session till the morning, hmmm?”

I just rolled my eyes and gasped when Yadiel suddenly pushed his cock’s tip inside me. I bit my lower lip from shock. He gripped my waist before he started to move very slowly. I know he’s trying to be careful to not hurt me despite the lust that he’s feeling.

”

Levi, is it… painful? Should we stop? ”
He asked worriedly.

I shook my head to disagree before I decided to change our position. I threw myself on top of him and pushed him onto his bed. I savoured his lips while caressing his hard chest that was panting heavily.

His hard shaft was poking my ass, so I moved my hips to seduce him even more. Yadiel held my nape to deepen my kiss while his free hand was massaging my nipple. I bit his lip to resist the urge to groan.

“You taste so good, Levi.”
Yadiel mumbled while sucking my left nipple.

I held his broad shoulders in support when I started to push my body down to his hard cock. Mahigpit na kumapit si Yadiel sa aking bewang nung magsimula akong gumiling sa taas niya. Nakita ko ang pagtaas ng sulok ng kanyang labi matapos kong bilisan ang paggalaw ng aking katawan.

“Uhmmm… fuck! You’re freaking huge, Yadiel!”
I mumbled while moving my hips on top of him. 

Yadiel combed his wet hair up using his fingers. ”
I know. You must have forgotten about what I told you earlier that you should be quiet, Levi.”

Napatili ako nung walang pasabi niya akong buhatin at padapain sa kama. He grabbed a clump of my hair before he positioned himself on my entrance. I felt my stomach tightening when he held my small waist firmly, guiding it to meet his thrust.

Napuno ng sigaw at ungol ang buong kwarto at di ko na mabilang kung nakailang beses na ba siyang nakaraos. I thought he was joking when he said that he wouldn’t be gentle, so I didn’t expect him to be this wild. My back is starting to feel sore, but I’m enjoying every moment that he’s inside me.

I missed him fucking me this hard. No one compares to how good he is in bed. He’s really an expert, and I’m fully satisfied with his performance. He’s still not done after banging me countless times until I feel sleepy and close my eyes because of too much tiredness.

The sore that I’m feeling on my back woke me up from sleep. Napangiti ako nung makita si Yadiel na mahimbing na natutulog sa tabi ko. Ngumisi ako nang mapansing nakasuot na ako ng damit ni Yadiel habang siya’y walang kahit anong suot.

He took care of me again last night just like what he did before. Sinubukan kong bumangon sa pagkakahiga pero agad akong napadaing nung maramdamang masakit ang ibabang parte ng katawan ko.

Yadiel stretched his arms and hugged my waist.
“I told you, I’m not going to be gentle. Should I borrow a wheelchair in the— ”

He didn’t finish his words when I hit him hard on the chest.
“Fuck you! I will never allow you to do it again.”

Yadiel shook his head before he kissed my neck.
”

Please, don’t make me beg, Levi. You know how crazy I am with you… ”

I just rolled my eyes before I dragged myself down onto his bed. Hirap akong humakbang hanggang makarating sa banyo para maligo. I bit the inside of my cheeks when I saw my body full of hickeys, especially my neck down to my chest.

”
Fuck you, Yadiel!”
I yelled so he could hear me on his bed.

I heard a few knocks on the toilet door. 
“Levi, sabay na tayong maligo. Promise, wala akong gagawin.”
Yadiel assured me.

I threw the tissue roll on the door, my face flushed with rage.
“As if you think I’ll let you in, you pervert!”

 

I heard him chuckle. I’m now imagining myself being with him in the future. Throwing plates and pans while we’re both teasing each other. Wake up in the morning with him by my side and slept in his arms when the sky gets dark.

I can’t wait to confess how much I love you, Doc. Yadiel Kristoff Romero.

---

🌈💅

E.F.G-35

“Teacher Levi, can you help me po?”
Amber asked me while holding a paint brush. Her hands are filled with different paint colors. 

Mabilis akong lumapit sa kanya at lumuhod para makita ang kanyang ipininta.
“Why do you need to ask my help? You did great, Amber!”

She let out a heavy sigh.
“No, I’m not. I want to be as great as you are, Teacher Levi.”

I put my hand over my mouth and laughed. She’s only 5, but she talks like an adult. I just started my painting class last week, and most of my students are children. I’m only teaching them every weekend, and I didn’t feel tired at all because I missed chatting with the kids.

It is now afternoon and I haven’t eaten my lunch yet since Yadiel told me that he would take me somewhere. I already closed the entire gallery, and I’m standing beside Butler Chris, who was assigned by Yadiel to look out for me.

“Sir, Chris, can you just drive me to where he is? We’ve already been waiting here for almost an hour!”
Pagrereklamo ko.

Butler Chris took a glance at his wristwatch before he turned his gaze to me. 
“Pasensya na po, Mr. Sullivan. Sigurado akong parating na si big boss, konting hintay lang po.”

I was about to call Yadiel for the nth time when I saw a Mercedes Benz Sprinter Van approaching towards our direction. It stopped in front of me, and my lips instantly formed an “o” shape when Yadiel got out of the van. He’s wearing slim-fit black longsleeves, firm slacks, and a pair of business shoes. His lab coat was hanging on his arms as he walked close to me and gave me a short but tempting kiss. 

 He moved his face near my left ear.
“Let’s go?”

I slightly pushed his chest to stop him from being too close.
“S-Saan ba tayo pupunta?”

“Let’s meet my parents.”

Parang nabuhusan ako nang malamig na tubig pagkatapos ko iyong marinig sa kanya. Napakabilis ng tibok ng aking puso at halo-halo ang aking nararamdaman. I’ve already seen his parents on the news, but this will be the first time I see them in person. 

I was sitting beside Yadiel while he was driving his van. I was busy looking for any beauty products in my bag, and I cursed when I noticed that I hadn’t brought any. Nakakahiya namang makita ako ng pamilya niya ng hindi ako mukhang presentable.

”
Levi, what’s wrong? Are you okay?”
Yadiel asked while looking straight down the road. 

I let out a heavy sigh, feeling frustrated.
“Paano ako magiging okay, Yadiel? You haven’t informed me that we would visit your parents!”

He smoothly parked his car beside the road and caressed my face.
“Levi, you don’t have to feel insecure. You’re the prettiest in my eyes. I’m sure my parents would love you as well.”

My heart skipped a beat when we reached the Romero’s luxury mansion. The exterior of their mansion is well proportioned and articulated. It was made with cohesive materials and colours that are striking and appealing. It has a wide garden and a round swimming pool in the side yard. 

I couldn’t help but admire the masterpiece that I was seeing. Being an artist, I find their mansion well detailed in terms of design and style. It was very entriqué, and it’s making my eyes spark with amusement.

“Ate Levi!”
A familiar voice called my name.

Kaagad akong napangiti nung makita si Yadriel na tumatakbo palapit sa akin. I noticed that he had become much taller since he’s now 8 years old. He’s wearing a basketball jersey shirt and pants while holding a ball. He immediately hugged my waist when he reached me. Yadiel hurriedly carried his little brother when he noticed that he’d been hugging me for too long.

“I missed you po, Ate Levi.”
Yadriel mumbled while wiping the sweat on his forehead with his back hand.

I grabbed the ball that Yadriel was holding.
“I missed you too! You look like your Kuya Yadiel, but in a mini version.” 

I think my eyes fell when I entered the Romero’s living room. The interior design is definitely the pinnacle of effortless sophistication. The spacious layout and sumptuous furniture reinvent luxury in a fashionable way. It is definitely a villa fit for a modern king.

“Oh my god! Levi Miles Sullivan in our house!”
Di makapaniwalang sabi ni Mrs. Romero habang papalapit sa ‘kin.

She’s in her wheelchair, but I couldn’t deny the power that she exudes. Wearing a red silk dress, she screams beauty and wealth. Kaagad niya akong binigyan ng yakap na aking ikinagulat.

“I guess our son’s lover has finally arrived.”
Mr. Romero welcomed me when he went out from the balcony.

I immediately offered my hand to Mr. Romero while my head was down.
“Hello po, I’m L-Levi Miles Sullivan.” 

He took my hand and smiled genuinely, which made me feel at peace. There’s no doubt that he’s the father of Yadiel because of his features and the way his gaze makes me feel comforted. Somehow, my nervousness faded. 

He chuckled.
“You don’t need to be so formal, Levi. You can call me Tito from now on.”

Mrs. Romero held my hand, which caught my attention.
“Or, I can be your second mom if you’d like.”
She teased me.

I have never felt so welcome in my whole life, just like how the Romero family did. By looking into their eyes, I knew that they were sincere. I really thought they would be mad at me for loving their eldest son, but I guess it’s all my anxiety that’s creating those thoughts. 

“So, kailan ang kasal?”
Tanong ni Mr. Romero na siyang dahilan kung bakit ako nasamid sa gitna ng hapag-kainan.

Yadiel wiped my mouth and immediately handed me a glass of water. 
“Dad! Don’t pressure my

love. Darating din po kami dyan.”

I hit Yadiel’s chest, feeling dumbfounded.
“Hindi pa nga kita sinasagot, nangangarap ka na agad!”

I heard Mrs. Romero chuckle.
“I thought you and Levi were now a couple. I guess you’re just… dreaming, my son.” 

I tightly gripped the spoon that I was holding when I felt the hand of Yadiel land on my legs. I turned my face to him and saw how he pursed his lips, trying to send me his flirty signals. I just rolled my eyes in response.

“Big bro, can you and Ate Levi make another… Vinia? I miss her so much. ”
Yadriel asked while looking down at his plate.

Mrs. Romero caressed his face and gave him an assuring smile.
“No, son. Ate Levi, and your big brother can’t produce another Vinia. You must have loved her a lot. ”

Yadriel just nodded, trying to resist the urge to cry. I could see in his eyes that he still couldn’t move on from Vinias, just like me. I would be very content if Vinia were still alive and able to see her grow like Yadriel, which is what I’m dreaming of. 

“Promise me, Levi, that you will visit us again if you have your free time. I want to go shopping with you.”
Mrs. Romero whispered when it was already night.

Tumango naman ako bilang pagsang-ayon.
“Sure po, tita. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”

I saw Mr. Romero whispering something to Yadiel, which made me curious. I just shook my head when Yadiel chuckled while tapping on the back of his dad. There’s no doubt they are father and son teasing each other. 

“Mom, Dad, mauuna na po kami ni Levi.”
Yadiel uttered while caressing my waist.

Mr. Romero took a glance at Yadiel beside me.
“Remember, son, you can’t come back here if you don’t complete your mission.”

Napangiti ako nang pilit nung yakapin ako ni Yadiel mula sa likuran.
“Of course, dad. I will make sure that I succeed, right Levi?”
Yadiel asked me while kissing the top of my head.

I hit his tummy with my elbow to stop him from being clingy. I just smiled at his parents awkwardly before I dragged my feet to get into Yadiel’s van. Whatever that mission is, I’m sure it’s something I wouldn’t like.

Yadiel had already parked his van in front of my condo. I still can’t go out since he’s holding my hand very tightly and it looks like he’s not going to let me go. I turned my face to him and instantly closed my eyes when he suddenly kissed me. 

“Levi, please be mine. You know, I’m not a patient guy… and I can’t wait any longer to marry you. ”

I pulled the collar of his longsleeved shirt to shut him up with a kiss.
“Is this the agreement that you had with your dad? To make me agree to marry you?”
I asked, using my soft voice.

He just nodded, feeling shy. I really find him adorable when he does that. Yadiel is really the type of guy that every women dreams of having as their husband. Hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala kung anong nakita niya sa akin para mahalin niya ako nang sobra.

“I like you, Doc. Yadiel Kristoff Romero. No, I think I already loved you since the first time I saw you.”
I finally let out the feelings that had been building up inside of me for a long time.

He chuckled in disbelief.
“Sigurado ka ba talagang minahal mo ako agad nung una mo ‘kong makita?”

“Oo nga, ang kulit mo naman!”
I was about to open the shotgun seat of his van and leave him hanging when he wrapped his arms around me. 

“Ganon din ako, Levi. Di ka na rin mawala sa utak ko nung una kitang makita noon.”
Bulong niya habang umiiyak.

The sound of his whimpers always makes my heart torn, but I’m willing to be his shoulder to lean on. I want to serve as his strength, just like what he is to me. I can’t wait to see ourselves grow as partners in life.

---

🌈💅

Epilogue

I just released my first art exhibit, and I’m glad that it was successful. Many members of the media have asked me to attend a press conference, so I agreed to do so in order to express my heartfelt gratitude.

“S-Sino po ang inspirasyon niyo sa pagpipinta, Mr. Sullivan?”
The reporter asked me while a lot of cameras were flashing on my face.

I gave her a sweet smile since she looked very nervous while looking at my eyes. 
“Napakarami kong naging inspirasyon para maabot ang tagumpay, at hindi ito naging madali. Nagpapasalamat ako sa aking ina, mga kaibigan, aking… sinta at sa namayapa kong k-kapatid.”
I hurriedly wiped my tears when I felt them rolling down my cheeks. 

Yadiel stood up from the audience seat and ran towards my direction. He cupped my face and wiped my tears using his thumb without minding all of the media that were looking at us. His worried eyes made my heart calm down and it stopped me from sobbing. 

Nung matapos ang press con ay agad akong inalalayan ng mga bodyguards ni Yadiel na makalabas ng venue. My interview was trending nationwide and I gained positive feedback from the viewers. I’ve never felt so exposed in my whole life, so it feels surreal. I couldn’t imagine how my life would change by being a successful painter.

Three days have passed since that press conference, and that’s also the last time I saw Yadiel. Wala akong natatanggap na tawag o kahit anong text mula sa kanya, dahilan para mas lalo akong magalit. Tinawagan ko si Doc. Lorriane pero tatlong araw na rin na daw na hindi pumapasok si Yadiel sa ospital.

I’m currently looking at how I dressed in the mirror when I heard my phone ring. Kaagad kong kinuha ang phone ko at bumuntong hininga nung makitang si Kyle ang tumatawag. Umiling ako bago ko ito sinagot.

“Ghorl, bakit ka napatawag—”

Kyle squealed so loudly, making me move my phone away from my ear.
“Ghorl, wag ka munang magbukas ng gallery mo! Let’s go to the beach and have some fun!”

“Tapos ano? Gagawin niyo akong third wheel ni Terrence? Wag na, ghorl. Tsaka, balak ko ring puntahan si Yadiel sa mansyon nila.”
I blatantly said.

I heard him sigh.
“Wag mo ng puntahan ‘yon! Dapat siya yung pumupunta sa ‘yo. Gayahin niya dapat si Terrence, pinuntahan ako sa Paris dahil miss niya ako.”

“Kasama naman ba sila Ezra at Zein?”

“Actually, we’re here already in Batangas, and we’re just waiting for you.”
Kyle proudly answered.

I growled in frustration.
“Bakit di niyo ako sinabihan?! Hindi ako nakapag-prepare!”

“Wag ka na mag-prepare, Levi. Kami bahala sa ‘yo.”
That’s the voice of Ezra.

Zein intruded.
“Levi, take your time. My rubber duckies are waiting for you.” 

Binaba ko na ang tawag at agad tumakbo sa aking closet. I grabbed some clothes that I would be needing and just threw them inside my mesh beach bag. My mother was still at work, so I’d call later to inform her about my unexpected errand.

I quickly fastened my seatbelt when I got inside Yadiel’s BMW car that he let me borrow three days ago. I’m not good at directions, so I’m using Waze to guide me to the beach that Kyle sent me. My heart was beating so fast, and my body was shaking. For some unknown reason, I feel happy, excited, and a little bit nervous.

After almost two hours of driving, I was able to reach the resort that Kyle told me about. Nakapagtatakang wala akong nakitang mga tao nung makababa ako ng sasakyan. Kibit balikat kong tinawagan si Kyle at mabilis naman niya itong sinagot.

“Ghorl, what’s taking you so long?”
He mumbled.

My forehead instantly creased.
“I’m here outside of the resort. Ito ba talaga ‘yon? Bakit… parang walang tao?”

“K-Kasi, nirentahan namin. Wag ka ng maraming tanong at pumasok ka na lang.”
Kyle sounded unsure, which makes me wonder if he’s saying the truth.

Namangha ako sa kabuuan ng beach resort nung makapasok ako sa loob. My lips parted in awe when I saw the majestic, clear beach with the waves crashing against the shore. The humid, fresh air makes my heart calm instantly.

“Levi, we’re here!”
Ezra shouted, which made me snap back to reality. 

I stiffed from my position when I saw familiar faces from afar. The specific spot on the beach was lined up with my stolen photos, flower petals, balloons, and party music. I almost cried when I saw my mom, my Rainbow Squad, Rossett brothers, Gellian, Doc. Lorriane, Mr. and Mrs. Romero, Yadriel, and even Mrs. Llanera and Tom sitting on the white chairs while looking at me.

Kaagad akong hinila nina Kyle palapit sa kanila at tuluyan ng umiyak nung yakapin nila ako. All of their faces looked worried, but I could see through their eyes that they were genuinely happy for me. I surveyed the whole crowd, and I felt a pang in my chest when I didn’t see Yadiel. I’m really hoping he’s here too.

My Rainbow Squad guided me in the center aisle. I was looking at their faces with a lot of questions on my mind when the background song changed into a romantic rhythm. My shoulders shrugged when I felt arms snake into my waist. 

“I missed you, Levi.”
 

I bit my lower lip before I turned my face to Yadiel. I let out a deep breath before I crossed my arms over my chest. I missed him too, but I’m really mad that he didn’t call me at all for the past three days.

“Miss mo mukha mo! Alam mo ba kung gaano ako nag-alala? Alam mo ba kung ilang beses kitang tinawagan pero di ka sumasagot? Alam mo ba kung—”

He gave me a short kiss on my lips to cut me off.
“I’m sorry, Levi. You don’t know how much I tried to resist calling you. I prepared all of these… because I want you to know how much you’re special to me. I’m really sorry if I made you worried.”

Yadiel bent his knees and begged.
“Levi, please wag ka nang magalit.”

I heard Mr. Romero laugh hysterically from the audience. Terrence and Carlos are just looking away, while my whole squad are trying to stop themselves from the urge to chuckle.

I held Yadiel, trying to pull him up from his knees, but he just kissed the back of my hand. He slowly turned his face up to meet my eyes, and my heart melted when I saw a lone tear rolling down his cheeks. My lips formed a smile when I saw him holding an emerald ring on his hand.

He cleared his throat before he made his vow.
“Levi, I’ve been… waiting for this moment for so many years. You probably can’t remember the first time we met, but it’s still vivid in my memory. I knew the moment your eyes met mine that you’d be difficult to forget…”

I wiped my tears with my back hand. My heart was beating so fast that I couldn’t mutter a word. I just nodded at him, urging him to go on. 

“Levi Miles Sullivan, you deserve the best in this world. Allow me to show you how much I love you every single day. Allow me to be your husband, your personal doctor, and someone who will pick up your shattered pieces. It’s not going to be easy, but I know we will make it as long as we are t-together.”
His voice broke from too much whimpering.

“Levi, please marry me. I’m not forcing you to agree, and I will be glad to wait no matter how long if you decline me this time—”

He paused when I forcedly grabbed the ring on his hand and put it on my ring finger.
“Yes, I also can’t wait to be your partner in life, Doc. Romero.”
I confessed casually.

Yadiel immediately stood up from his knees and gave me a tight hug. I heard the crowd clap their hands and congratulate us. I guess this is where my chapter ends. I still couldn’t believe that me and Yadiel would reach this moment in our lifetime. There might be a lot of struggles or obstacles that we will encounter in the future, but I’m willing to take his hand and will never surrender.

Allow me to paint our picture as we grow old. You are everything that I ever dreamed of and everything that I asked for,

Doc. Yadiel Kristoff Romero

Now signing off,

Levi Miles Sullivan

🌈💅

---

-Terrorious

Author’s Note

To all of my Rainbow Squad,

 
 

      Thank you very much for reading the story of Levi and Yadiel which is entitled

Embracing From Grief

(Crossing The Line Series 3). This is the  fourth 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 4), Sana patuloy niyo pa rin akong suportahan. Abangan niyo po ang stories nina Gellian at Zein also known as part of

Rainbow Squad.

I will do my best to make their stories worth it just like

Yadiel and Levi.

      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

Embracing From Grief

. We made it this far Rainbow Squad!

Nakakalungkot mang isipin pero malapit na tayong magpaalam sa original Rainbow Squad (Kyle, Ezra, Levi and Zein). I will miss them so much since their stories are the first series I wrote.

    
Next na yung story ni Zein and Gellian and sadly, last na po itong part ng Crossing The Line Series. Salamat po sa pagbabasa at sa walang sawang suporta. Mahal ko kayong lahat.

Your Rainbow Squad Author,

Terrorious
🌈💅

Announcement

I will be a part of a collab, Rainbow Squad!

BLOOD SERIES is a collaboration that consists of 5 books written by different authors with the same theme and genre. But the characters aren’t connected, in any way, as possible.

You can read the books in any order.

---

SERIES #1:
SINFUL BLOOD  [GXG]
by venamaritres

SERIES #2:
ORACLE’S BLOOD [BXB]
by Dark_Senshi

SERIES #3
CRIMSON’S BLOOD CURSE [BXB]
by Inkitten

SERIES #4
BLOOD ANGEL (BIXBI)
by carandangflorygrace

SERIES #5
Sweet Blood (BXB)
by Terrorious

—

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, business, events and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

AVAILABLE ON WATTPAD!

Disclaimer: These series contains mature contents or erotic scenes that may not be suitable for young/sensitive readers.

Terrorious

🌈💅

E.F.G (Special Chapter)

Warning:
This chapter contains
rape
and
abuse
that may trigger your
depression
. Please read at your own risk.

In the middle of my deep sleep, I heard a raspy voice next to my ear. Pilit kong tinatatagan ang aking sarili na huwag ipakita ang takot subalit binalot na ako nito matapos maramdaman ang paghaplos sa aking buhok.

“Levi?”

Sweat started to gather on my forehead as he continued to stroke my hair till he sniffed it. Mahigpit akong kumapit sa kumot na nakabalot sa aking katawan. When he spoke again, my lips trembled nervously.

“Alam kong gising ka, Levi,”
Uncle Marvin murmurred.
“Open your eyes kung ayaw mong habambuhay ka ng nakapikit kasama ng mama mo.”

As soon as I saw his smirk and his knife pointed at my neck, tears welled up in my eyes. I felt terrified throughout my entire body. I’m trembling, yet I can’t even lift my finger. I was terrified that if I didn’t obey him, he would kill my mom.

“T-tito, p-pagod n-na po… a-ako.”

He merely smirked and carefully lifted the blanket that had been covering my bare body. Sinubukan kong magpumiglas at hawakan iyon nang sobrang higpit pero matalim niya akong tiningnan. I let go of my grasp because I was frightened he would punch or hit me
again
without mercy.

“Very good, Levi,”
nakangiti niyang wika matapos makita ang hubad kong katawan.

Mariin kong kinagat ang aking ibabang labi nung marahas niyang ipasok ang kanyang dalawang daliri sa loob ko. Humikbi ako nung pinasok niya pa ang isa. While silently crying, my hand sought for my uncle’s face, hoping that he would stop, but he did not.

“Tito, p-patayin niyo na lang po ako. Wag niyo na pong idamay si mama,”
nanghihina kong sambit.

Imbes na sumagot ay pinaglandas niya ang dalawa kong hita at dali-daling pumwesto sa aking gitna. He just used me for the second time not an hour ago, so he’s also naked. Mom asked my uncle to keep an eye out for me because she was not at home looking for work.

“Ahhh! T-tito!”
I yelled in agony as he thrust his shaft inside my body without warning.

Matapos niya akong pagbuhatan ng kamay sa aking pisngi ay napapikit ako. Sa sobrang sakit ng kanyang mga pag-ulos ay hindi ko na ramdam ang paulit-ulit niyang pagsampal sa akin.

“Mama, please come back home and save me,”

I’ve been saying this in my head since earlier.

Dumaing ako nung sakalin niya ang aking leeg upang salubungin ko ang kanyang pagbayo. When I was out of breath, I grabbed his hand, but he’s too strong for me. Because of his grip on my neck, no words are coming out of my lips.

He growled like a beast as he continued to thrust forcefully.
“Ughh! Fuck, Levi! Why do you have to be so tight?!!”

Ubos na siguro ang luha sa aking mga mata nung hindi na iyon umagos mula roon. I was barely surviving and was completely exhausted. I desperately want to flee, but I’m only a child and have no idea how. I feel like I’m trapped within a dark tunnel with no way out.

I’m stucked and helpless.

“Holy shit! I’m coming, Levi,”
He grumbled.

Mas binilisan niya ang pag-ulos at matapos ang ilang segundo ay tumigil siya. He gasped as he gently turned to face the ceiling. After feeling his warm release inside me, I passed out.

I just want to die at that very moment.

As my emotions continued to flow, I looked for someone to hang on to. When I realize I’m alone, I casually open my puffy eyes and cover myself with a blanket. Akala ko noon ay hindi na ako ulit babangungutin ng nakaraan, subalit nagkamali ako.

“Y-Yadiel?”
I uttered after clearing my throat.
“W-where are you? I really n-need you.”

Madilim ang buong kwarto at napakalakas ng ulan sa labas. Mas lalo akong binalot ng takot at lungkot. Nangangatog ang buo kong katawan nung bumangon ako para siya’y tawagan.

“Hello, my love,”
he said after my fifth call,
“I’m sorry I had to fill in for a colleague’s shift, so I’m still here in the hospital. It’s now… three a.m., why are you still up?”

Nilayo ko ang telepono nung muli akong humikbi upang ‘di niya iyon marinig. I don’t want to concern him because his voice sounds exhausted. I gather my thoughts and smile, masking my current state.

“I’m p-painting,”
I mumbled, my voice breaking.

“Hey, love, are you okay?”
He presumably put his phone away, but I can still hear him stating he’ll go home to his coworkers.

“Yadiel?”
I asked, biting my lower lip.
“You don’t need to come home; I’m OK.”

“You sure?”

I gulped.
“Yeah,”

“Are you really sure, Levi,”
pag-ulit niya pa.

“Oo nga! Nakakainis ka naman, eh! Wag ka nang umuwi, pupuntahan kita d’yan bukas.”

I overheard him giggling.
“If that’s the case, then I’ll wait for you; I love you, Levi.”

Rumolyo ang mga mata ko.
“Yeah, I love you too, Yadiel. Bye!”

Maaga akong nagising kinabukasan at nagluto ng almusal. Actually, the meal I’m preparing is suitable for lunch because it’s Caldereta, Yadiel’s favorite dish. For not going home last night, I poured a lot of chili. As in a LOT!!!

Nang matapos akong magluto ay kaagad rin akong naligo. My appointment with Dr. Alegre has already been scheduled. He had been recommended to me by Zein as a psychiatrist at Get Better Recovery Center.

I did some research and saw several of his effective treatments with traumatic patients, yet he’s still unmarried at 30 years old. His face is attractive, but my husband is way more hotter.

“Levi Miles Sullivan, you may now come in,”
the nurse stated cheerfully as the patient ahead of me exited the consulting room.

Because I didn’t have time to prepare, I’m only wearing a casual short sleeve suit coat. It was worn with terno shorts and lace-up boots. When I saw Dr. Alegre inside the room, my lips curved up. He immediately rose from his seat to greet me.

“Mr. Sullivan-Romero, please have a seat,”
wika niya habang hawak ang likod ng upuan sa harap ng kanyang lamesa.

I sat down because he motioned me to do so. Dr. Alegre filled the empty glass with tea and handed it to me. Ngumiti naman ako bago tanggapin iyon.

“How did you know my lover, Dr. Alegre?”
hindi na ako nagpaligoy-
ligoy at diretso ko ‘yong tinanong.

He combed his thick locks with his fingers.
“Every medical center in the country is buzzing about your approaching wedding with Dr. Romero.”

I could tell from his expression that he idolize Yadiel. My future husband is the country’s best surgeon, so I get it. I just took a drink of tea and met his look when he spoke.

“Are you suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, Mr. Sullivan-Romero?”

Halos mabitawan ko ang hawak kong baso nung marinig iyon sa kanya. Some traumatic doctors must ask bunches of questions before identifying your true condition, but he was able to prove it by simply looking at my eyes.

He snapped his fingers in front of my face as I was zoning out.
“Talking to someone is the greatest way to heal from this; have you told your husband or friends?”

“I don’t think I’m strong enough to tell them,”
Yumuko ako nung maramdaman ang nagbabadyang luha.

“How about… having a child?”
he asked emphatically.
“You know what, Mr. Sullivan-Romero, the reason I haven’t asked about your past is because I can sense that you don’t trust anyone around you.”

I raised my brow.
“And you think having a child will benefit me? Why do you think that is? In what way?”

“As of right now, you still can’t let go of your gloomy past, and the best advise I can give you is to look forward to the bright future. Dr. Dorothy Rowe concludes that there’s no reason why a baby or a child shouldn’t make you happier,”
He adviced.

Inilahad ni Dr. Alegre ang kanyang kamay matapos ang aming session at masaya ko naman iyong tinanggap. Before walking towards the door, I say my goodbyes. I was about to grab for the doorknob when someone from the outside opened it for me. When I saw who it was, my lips parted.

“Doc. Lorriane? A-anong ginagawa mo dito?”
nagtataka kong tanong ko sa kapatid ng asawa ni Kyle.

Looking at her nice pink clothing, she appears to be going on a date. Her outfit’s sleeves were puffy, and her face looked different because she was wearing make-up. Muntik ko pa siyang hindi makilala.

Feeling uneasy, she tucked her hair behind her left ear.
“I’m h-here because…”

“Mr. Sullivan-Romero, she’s my p-patient,”
Dr. Alegre replied on Lorriane’s behalf.

Halos madapa si Dr. Alegre para lumapit sa amin. Akala siguro nila’y hindi ko napansin ang pag-uusap nila sa mata kaya ako patagong ngumisi.

To be honest, they’d make a terrific couple.

When I entered Romero’s Medical Hospital, it was almost midday. Mr. and Mrs. Romero, along with Yadriel, are currently in the Neitherlands, which is one of the reasons why Yadiel had no time to go home every night. He must supervise their hospital in addition to treating his patients.

“Hello, Dr. Endrano,”
I said,
“where is Yadiel? I haven’t seen him at his office.”

Yadiel’s pal Ezekiel Endrano. He’s a neurosergeon, and his office is right next to my hubby’s, so I’d ask him. Dr. Endrano was stroking his nape and couldn’t look me in the eyes, which made me nervous.

“Mr. Edrano, where is he?”
pag-ulit ko.

He replied,
“Levi, he’s at the clinic, injured.”

“Thank you, Dr. Edrano,”
turan ko bago bumaba papunta sa clinic ng ospital na nasa ground floor.

When I eventually arrived at the clinic, I was gasping for air and panting excessively. Humugot ako nang malalim na hininga bago dahan-dahang pumasok sa loob. Nakapagtatakang tahimik ang buong paligid. Inisa-isa kong tingnan ang lahat ng patient’s bed at nang marating ko ang pinakadulong kama ay nakita ko siya, ginagamot ang sarili niyang sugat sa kanang kamao.

“Love, what happened?”
I sat beside him and placed the paper bag with the lunch I had prepared for him on the bedside table.

He hurriedly wrapped a bandage across his injured fist before hugging me. When he started crying, I caressed his back. Mahina lamang siyang humihikbi pero ramdam ko ang sakit sa bawat pagtulo ng kanyang mga luha sa aking balikat.

“L-love, it’s my fault! I should have met you when you were a youngster so I could kill that piece of shit! It must have been difficult for you to tell me the truth. I’m sorry,”
he continues, despite the fact that it was not his fault.

Tumulo ang magkakasunod na luha sa aking mga mata. I held him tightly and buried my face on his shoulder. Yadiel has always been a comfort to me, but I didn’t tell him because I’m afraid he won’t accept me anymore.

“H-how did you know?”
mahina kong bigkas.

His whimpering persists.
“From the first time I met you, I knew you were a traumatic patient; you probably don’t remember how you captured my heart the instant your eyes met mine, but it’s still vivid to me; I waited for you to tell me the truth, but you decided not to.”

“Levi,”
He cupped my face and stared intently at my eyes.
“I’m your husband, so why are you isolating your problems from me? W-why are you going to any other doctor if I’m here willing to heal you?”

Hinawakan ko ang kanyang kamay habang patuloy na umaagos ang aking mga luha. He kissed my forehead after wiping away my tears with his thumb. When he made me lean on his chest and made me hear his quick heartbeat, I was stunned.

He whispered under his breath,
“You don’t know how much I wanted to hear you call for my help when you needed it the most. You’re such a warrior, Levi. You’re the strongest person I’ve ever encountered and the most vulnerable,”

“Hindi ka ba… n-nandidiri sa ‘kin?

We’re only engaged, so you can still back off if you change your min–”

When he held my chin up and kissed me, I couldn’t complete what I was saying. I was expecting a peck, so I was surprised when his tongue wandered over my lips, looking for an opening.

“Yadiel,”

“Levi, I love you and I will undoubtedly marry you; no matter what has happened in your past, my heart will only beat for you,”
he declared aloud.

“OK,”
I snarled, then averted my gaze as I blushed.

Bahagyang tumaas ang boses niya,
“Seriously, Levi? OK lang ‘yong sinagot mo after kong mag-confess na parang teenager? Where’s my

I love you too

?”

I crossed my arms across my chest and pointed to his injured fist.
“Then tell me where you got that first, and don’t tell me you had a fight with my uncle in hell?”

He chuckled awkwardly before concealing his hand behind his back.
“Well, Levi, that’s not true; I flung my fist at someone who is still… alive.”

“And who is this person?”

He swallowed the lump in his throat.
“Uhmmm…”

Bumaling ang aming tingin sa pinto nung marinig ang sigaw ni Lorriane.
“Yadiel, you have no right to punch my lover out of jealousy!”

Tumayo naman agad si Yadiel upang ipagtanggol ang sarili niyang pride.
“Of course!”
he said as he took my hand in his and raised it.

“Can’t he see the massive emerald I put on my lover’s finger so no man can get close to him?”
dagdag pa ni Yadiel.

“What?!”
hindi makapaniwalang singhal ni Lorriane.
“Levi, I think you don’t need a child right now, because your future husband is so childish.”

“I agree with you, Lori,”

Bumagsak ang balikat ni Yadiel nang bumaling sa akin ang kanyang atensyon.
“L-Levi, is that true? Are we going to have a child? Am I going to be a daddy?”

“That was the original plan,”
I teased,
“but I think we can postpone that for now because you’re still acting like a kid, Yadiel.”

“Levi, I want to be a dad; I’ll call mom so she can arrange a flight back here, and we can strategize how we can make our first baby–”

“YADIEL!!!”
buong lakas kong sigaw para patigilin siya.

Taking the first move might be difficult, especially if it will have an impact on your connection with your loved ones. I never expected someone to come into my life and embrace me free from grief.

Embracing From Grief

by: Terrorious

🌈💅

PS.
Alam kong bitin ka. Sorry na. Magkakaroon ‘to ng kasunod (baka next life, char)

PPS.
Also, I’ll be taking a break for a few weeks, so this is my final update before I go. Hindi ko na po balak sabihin ‘yong reason, but I’m sure babalik ako.

PPS.
I will miss you, Rainbow Squad.