Author’s note:

Hello, Aprilicious!!

Before ninyong basahin po ang

EXCHANGE OF HEARTS

basahin niyo po una ang DSS#1:

HADES

SERVANTES . Connected po sila kasi story po ’yon ng father ni Race.

Sana mahalin ninyo rin ito gaya nang pagmamahal ninyo kina Hades at Isaiah.

Sa hindi pa nakabasa ng DSS#1:

HADES

SERVANTE S, basahin niyo na po.

Thank you!

With love,

Imy.

DESCRIPTION

Hurace had no plans to fall in love with anyone, whether male or female. He was content having parents, even if they were both men. He didn’t like the idea of having a relationship with someone else; he loved to grow alone and had no plans to have a wife or children. He only wanted to take care of his parents and live freely on this earth.

But then, he met a guy named Atlas Zubiaga. They were very different from each other. Atlas just wanted to explore the world, loved parties and hot sex. He enjoyed playing with girls, which is why he was well-known as a heartbreaker.

They were very different, but in one instance, they both fell for each other. They didn’t know that this time would come and change their lives.

---

This is a work of fiction, Names, Characters, businesses, places, events, and Incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual person’s, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Plagiarism is a crime

This story is unedited, so expect typo, graphical errors, grammatical errors, wrong spelling and whatsoever errors.

CHAPTER 1

Race put his hand in the pocket of his hoodie because of the cold wind blowing in the middle of the night. He nodded to the guard of the University where he studies before exiting.

It’s already ten o’clock in the evening. Malimit na lang na mga sasakyan ang dumadaan sa harap ng university. He wanted to call his father but he also didn’t want to disturb his fathers.

Yes, fathers. Because he has two fathers. One is his Daddy and the other is his Papa.

Many people know that his parents are both men. Some of them are disgusted because of that and some are not. And it doesn’t affect him. He doesn’t care what people think about them.

His Daddy told him that he impregnated his mom but his mom died while giving birth to him and his daddy was still in love with his Papa, his Daddy returned to his Papa and they got along and they are still together today.

It’s been what? 19 years?

He inhales the cold breeze and starts walking. He loves to walk. He loves late night walks, he always does that whenever he gets home late because of his studies.

He strolled and suddenly stopped because his phone rang.

He got a text message from his Papa.

Papa Hades: Where are you, son? It’s already late.

He typed for a reply immediately.

Race: I’m going home, Pa. I just want to stroll.

Papa Hades: Make sure to come home before 11, okay? Your father is worried ’bout you, son.

Race: father? It’s not my first time to stroll around.

Papa Hades: He’s your father, it’s natural to worry for his son’s well-being. Your silly and your curse machine father is worried, so come early.

Race chuckled after he read his father’s reply.

He shook his head and replied;

Race: I’m on my way, but I just stroll. I need some fresh air.

Papa Hades: okay. Be careful, Race. See you.

He shoved his phone back to his pocket and started walking again

He really loves to stroll. He is used to walking home, their subdivision is still far from the school he attends but he chooses to walk.

He was far away from the university and from where he was standing he could hear the loud music coming from a famous club. Many people go to that club and almost all of them are rich. He never went to any clubs, he didn’t like noisy places and he didn’t like to party. Especially inside the club. Drinks, others are flirting, having sex and what else are they doing and he hates that. All of that.

He just shook his head and continued walking. The night is getting late and more and more people are coming to the club. He passed the club and stopped when he heard shouting. It’s not a shout from inside the bar, it’s not a shout from having fun.

He frowned and slowly approached where the screams came from. His eyebrows raised when he witnessed the fight in the dark area outside the club.

There weren’t just one or two. But there are many. Helping to beat a man. And to his surprise, the man can still fight his opponent even though there are many of them. The man gets punched but he can also punch back at the one who punches him.

“Stupid,” he whispered and walked away. He doesn’t like to fight. He doesn’t like that, he thinks that fighting with some asshole is a cheap and waste of time.

“Don’t fucking kick my balls, asshole!” Someone shouted that almost made him laugh.

Instead of leaving, he returned to watch the fight.

“This one’s for touching my pretty butt!” He shouted again.

He is so noisy. How can he still look calm and collected even though he’s facing his death. It looks like those people won’t let that man live.

“Hey! Don’t you dare to punch my gorgeous face!”

He punched the other guy and kicked the one who’s holding him, and knocked over two men who rushed at him.

“Patumbahin na ’yan!”

Bumaling si Race sa sumigaw, wala itong ginagawa, nakatayo lang ito habang pinapanood ang mga kasamahan ng pinagtulungan ang isang lalaki.

Race heard someone exclaim, he followed the voice and he saw someone standing now so far the commotion.

Perhaps he is the boss? Is this a kind of gang fight?

“Yes, boss!”

Sa isang kisap mata ay sabay na sumugod ang mga lalaki at pinagtulungan ang nag-iisang lalaki. He can fight pero marami siyang natatanggap na bugbog at sipa.

In a blink, they all moved and rushed towards the man. It’s one dozen versus one. Race can tell that this man can fight, luckily he is still alive.

Race frowned when the man received a great punch.

Damn, it hurts.

He doesn’t have a choice. He doesn’t want to interfere but the guy looks like he can’t fight anymore.

Race can’t help but shake his head. What’s wrong with him? He shouldn’t have wasted his time watching kids play.

“What’s with this commotion?” He asked, bored and glanced at the guy who’s already on the floor with blood in his face.

Pity.

“Who are you?” The boss asked him.

“I’m here to call the cop.” He simply said and grabbed his phone from his pocket.

“Huwag ka ngang makikialam dito! Umalis ka na kung ayaw mong madamay-”

“I already dialed the cop and they are on their way here—”

“—Boss, nagsisinungaling lang—”

“Me? Lying? For what?”  He retorted while simply showing his phone screen to them with a name of Police Station 16.

But the truth was he changed the name of this father in his contact list before he dialed it and showed to the gang

“They’re coming…” He said, smirking and tilted his head.  “What are you waiting for, idiots? Run.” He added.

The boss gritted his teeth. “Putangina!” He exclaimed, kicking his henchmen who’s lying on the ground before he turned his back and started walking away. “Umalis na tayo!” His henchmen followed after him.

“Race? Race?”

Race sighed after he heard his father and put his phone on his ear.

“Dad, sorry. Did I disturb you?” He asked.

“What happened? Are you alright?” His dad asked, worried. He just heard the man earlier.

“Yeah, yeah. I’m alright. I’m sorry that I called you,”

“It’s fine, son. Where are you?”

“I’m coming home…” He said and glanced at the guy who is still on the floor while murmuring. “I’ll hang up now. See you later, Dad. Love you.”

He hang-up the phone and shoved it back into his pocket before he walked towards the man.

“Daddy’s boy?” Said the guy, laughing.

Race cocked his brows and said. “You still had the strength to laugh, huh? Bungi ka na nga pero may gana ka pang tumawa.”

“Excuse me,  ako.” He retorted and forced himself to get up, but it seemed like he couldn’t stand up.

Race watched him trying his best to stand up by himself. But after a minute, the man puffed an air and pouted.  “Help me up, please.”

Race couldn’t help but roll his eyes before he helped the man to stand up.

“Wow! I’m alive!”

“You nearly got kill,”

“Yeah, yeah. I know. I saw St. Peter earlier.” He laughed at his own joke.

Race shook his head once more and turned his back. Race left the man, but he followed him.

“Iiwan mo na lang ako?” He asked, dramatically.

“You’re not going to die,” Race answered.

“Baldado ako! Tulungan mo ako!”

“Tinulongan na kita kanina,” Race didn’t spare the man a single glance.

“Sana hindi ka na lang tumawag ng pulis, sana tinulungan mo na lang akong bugbugin ang mga hampaslupa na ’yon.”

“I didn’t call the police. It’s my dad whom I called. And I don’t like to fight, I will just engage myself into a cheap and kids fight.”

Race heard murmurs from the man behind him, but he ignored it.

“Hindi ’yon cheap. Para ngang sumali ako sa heavyweight,”

“Hindi mo nga sila kaya.” Finally, Race stopped walking, and faced the man who almost bumped on his chest

They both tall, and they both have the same height. But the difference was this man in front of Race was bulkier than him, he had more muscles than Race. This man also have a broad shoulder. Race shouldn’t felt envy to his man’s body.

“Kaya ko ’yon! Dumating ka lang—”

“If I didn’t meddle with your kids, you might be dead by now.” He cut him off.

The man rolled his eyes, and winced when he tried to move. Race cocked his brows as he watched the man faking his expression. He acted that he’s fine, but his face contradicted his actions.

Race doesn’t have a choice. He sighed and called for a taxi

“Get in,” Race ordered, and he hopped in first.

“Where are we going?” The guy asked, but he got in the car.

“To the Harrison Medical Hospital, please…” He told the driver, and he ignored the man beside him.

“Anong gagawin natin sa hospital?”

“Use your brain, idiot. Nonsense ang tanong na ’yan.” He didn’t know if he could stay longer with this guy. Race thought that this man didn’t use his brain, always asking him a nonsense question even though it can be answered with common sense.

“Oh, sorry. Valedictorian lang kasi ako noong high school tapos halos with highest honors lang ’ang awards na nakuha ko. Sorry.”

Race almost rolled his eyes.  He chose to ignore the man the whole ride to the hospital. Race paid the taxi driver, and he entered first leaving the man behind again.

“Hey! Wait for me! Sino ba ang gagamotin? Ako o ikaw?” He exclaimed.

Why is he so noisy? Why can’t he just shut his mouth up?!

“Good evening, Sir Hurace,”  Race greeted by the nurse, and supported the man.

“Good eve,” he greeted back. “Gamotin niyo ang isang ’yan.”

“Yes, sir.”

Another nurse arrived with a wheelchair, and they took the man with them. Before Race followed, he messaged his Father.

Race: Dad, I’ll be home late.

Seconds past his dad replied;

Dad Isaiah: why? Where are you? Are you alright? What happened?

He just shook his head as he read the message.

Race: I’m here at Harrison M.H.

Dad Isaiah: Hurace?! What happened?!

Later on his dad called him.

He answered the call.

“Dad—”

“Hurace?! What the hell did happened?! Why are you at the Harrison M.H.?!”

“Dad, I’m fine,okay—”

“Fine?! Then why are you there? What are you doing?”

Race sighed. His father was overreacting again, but he got used to it.

“May dinala lang akong lalaki rito,”

“Why?” His father’s voice calmed.

“Binugbog siya at marami ang sugat niya kaya dinala ko siya rito para magamot siya.” He explained.

Narinig niya mula sa kabilang linya ang malalim na hinga nang kaniyang ama at ang pag buntong hininga nito and his Papa said ‘see? He’s alright. Calm down, babe.’ In the other line.

He heard the heavy sigh from his father on the other line. His Papa Hades said to his Daddy Isaiah ‘see? He’s alright. Calm down, babe.’

“Dad, I’m fine, okay? You don’t have to worry about me, okay? After this uuwi na ako.” Said Race.

“Just go home safe, Race. Don’t make your father worried.”

“Yes, dad…”

Race hung up the phone, and sighed—running his fingers through his hairs.

He understands why his father reacted that way.

Sumunod siya sa kwarto at pumasok doon. Nag-angat naman ng tingin ang lalaki sa kaniya nang makita siyang pumasok.

As soon as Race stepped into the room where they brought the man, Race met the man’s eyes.

What’s his name again?

Race averted his eyes, he looked at the nurse who treated the man.

“Are you done, nurse Cha?” He asked.

“Yes, sir. Puwede na rin po siyang lumabas.” Said the nurse before she bid her goodbye and left.

It’s just the two of them who left inside the room.

“I thought you already left,” said the man and rose from the bed.

“Babayaran ko pa ang bills mo.”

“I can pay my bills. I have money.” Said the man. Race thought that the man would walk, but he just sat in the wheelchair and said to Race. “Itulak mo. Nakakatamad maglakad.”

Speechless, Race stared at the man’s face.

What?! Did he just order Race to push the wheelchair?

“Come on! Itulak mo na! Nakakatamad maglakad tapos baldado pa ako,”

Race couldn’t hide the irritation on his face, but he couldn’t argue too. He pushed the wheelchair even though he’s debating with himself whether to push the man off the stair or perhaps push the man off the building.

“I heard the nurse call you, Hurace… Is that your name?” The man looked at him.

Looking straight, Race retorted. “Where’s your common sense? Nawala ba kanina habang binubugbog ka?”

“Sabi ko nga pangalan mo ’yon,” said the man. He cleared his throat, and he moved on his chair—sitting straight. “I’m Atlas by the way.”

“Why are you there by the way?” Asked Atlas.

“Napadaan lang—”

“Napadaan? Lang?” Atlas chuckled. “Hindi ako naniniwala sa’yo. Galing kang club ’no?”

“I hate clubs and parties,” Race simply answered.

“Really? Well, I love parties, club, girls, sex, liquor and cigarettes—”

“It’s bad for our health.” Race can’t hide his furrowed face after he heard Atlas.

“Matagal naman na akong umiinom pero hindi pa naman ako patay,” Atlas just shrugged his shoulder.

Race looked at him, brows cocked.“Why? Do you ever wish to die?”

“Pagod naman akong mabuhay.” He said with a hint of boredom. “Hindi naman sa gusto ko ng mamatay. Pagod na talaga akong mabuhay. Nakakapagod gumising sa ugama pero nawawala ang pagod ko kapag may babae akong nakikita.” Atlas bursted laughed, and Race just shook his head.

“What about you? Do you want to live longer here?”

Race didn’t even hesitate, he nodded his head. “Yes. I wanna live longer.”

Atlas nodded and Race left Atlas to pay the bill.

“Kilala ka ata ni Nurse Cha, tinawag ka pa niyang Sir kanina. Magkakilala kayo?” Asked Atlas after Race comes back.

“Yeah,”

“Nililigawan mo si Nurse Cha?”  Atlas asked, shocked hinted on his face.

“What? No? She’s 7 years older than me,”

“Ah, hindi ka pumapatol ng matanda? Ako kasi Oo, mas masarap sila—”

“Just shut your fucking mouth.” Race cut him off. “I don’t wanna hear it.”

Atlas’ shocked face looked at him..“Holy shit! Don’t tell me you’re still a virgin?” He just bursted laughed when Race did not answer.

On the other hand, Race was just containing himself from pushing Atlas off the stair. .

“Shut up.” Race left Atlas, he walked out of the hospital. He immediately called for a taxi.

His fathers might have worried about him. He didn’t want his parents to worry about him.

“Do you often visit here?” Asked Atlas.

“Yeah,” he answered without glancing at the guy.

“So, may nililigawan ka nga rito? Sino? Si nurse Cha? Baka joke-joke mo lang ’yong kanina na hindi ka pumapatol sa mga matatandang babae.”

Irritated, Atlas glanced back at Atlas. “It’s none of your business, Atlas.“

Atlas frowned.

A taxi stopped in front of Race, but before he hopped in, he looked back at Atlas. “Sinong susundo sa’yo?“

“Si San Pedro,” Atlas retorted that made Race lifted his brows. “Tatawagan ko ang driver ko na susunduin ako rito.” Atlas added and grabbed his phone from his pocket.

A minute later, a taxi parked in front of them.

“See you again, Race,”

Race furrowed as he glanced at Atlas who’s grinning at him

“Syempre, magkikita pa tayo dahil magpa-party tayo. You helped me that’s why need to party!”

“I hate parties—

“Sus! Utot mo, Race. I know you love parties! Maraming babae ro’n na maganda at kasing edad ni nurse Cha—”

Race cut Atlas’s off by raising his hand and waving while his back was still facing Atlas.

“See you never, Atlas.” Said Race and he hopped in.

KABANATA 02

“What the hell happened to you, Atlas?!” He was greeted by his mother’s voice as he stepped in the house.

“Napaaway ako—”

“Palagi ka na lang napapaaway! Kahapon napaaway ka rin? Paano ’yong nakaraang araw?! Napaaway ka rin?”

“Hindi, pustahan ’yon, eh—”

“Oh, my god! Ang sakit mo sa ulo, Atlas!”

Atlas whistled as he walked towards the dining area, he saw his sibling listening to their mother’s rants.

“Hey! Good evening, my dearest family!” He greeted his siblings as he walked towards the table.

Amber stood up, she’s the second eldest in the family. She helped Atlas to sit on the vacant chair.

“Sino na naman ang nakalaban mo ngayon?” Asked Amber.

“Boyfriend no’ng chix ko, ate,”

His siblings rolled their eyes. Nothing’s new. Atlas always comes home with a bandage on his body, sometimes Atlas comes home and he can’t even lift his feet. He was always involved in fights where the only reason was women.

“Magtino ka nga, Atlas,” Artemis said, one of his eldest sisters.

“Si Kuya nga hindi matino, eh.”  He pointed at his brother who laughed at his face.

Atlas furrowed as his brother jokily punched his shoulder where he got bruised.

“Gumaya ka kasi sa akin! Bakit ba kasi nagpakita ka ro’n sa boyfriend ng chix mo? Dumiretso na sana kayo sa hotel—”

“Kuya!” His two sisters exclaimed in unison.

“What? Totoo naman ’yon, ah!”

Atlas just shook his head.

“Who brought you to the hospital, Atlas?”  His mother walked in the dining area.

“Hindi ko kilala, tinulungan lang niya ako.”

“Who? Babae?” Atlas’s brother cocked his brow.

“Nope. It’s a guy, napadaan lang doon sa club.”

Atlas pursed his lips as he remembered Race. In his mind, Race was grumpy, and he’s cold towards Atlas. They are really totally different from each other, but Atlas didn’t bought what Race said to him that he didn’t go to a club, and he’s not a fan of parties.

Everyone loves to party! Loves hot sex!

“Ang bait naman niya para tulungan ka,” Lifted her brow, Amber said to Atlas. “What’s his name? Taga saan ba ’yan? Guwapo? Mayaman—”

“Ate, hindi ka no’n magugustuhan. Matino ’yon tapos malandi ka.” Atlas didn’t even hesitated to say it in front of his sister.

A slippers flew to his face.

“What the?! Why did you do that?!” He shouted.

“Sinong malandi?” With an eyebrow cocked, his sister defied him.

Atlas pouted, he stood up and grabbed bread as he walked out of the dining area. His feets still aching, he can’t walk properly.

He climbed on the stairs, he tried his best to climb even though his feet were throbbing so bad. He’s lucky, his other bruises and wounds on his body were healed earlier by nurse Cha.

After he arrived in his room, he threw himself on the bed. Grabbing his phone to check the time. It’s already eleven fifteen in the evening.

“People love parties,” He whispered to himself as he remembered what Race told him. He stood up, and he walked towards his bathroom to clean himself. “I don’t believe that he doesn’t like to party. People love that!“

While he was cleaning himself, he scratched his head as he remembered that he forgot to ask Race’s number. How can he invite that guy to their club hopping if he doesn’t have Race’s number?

Maybe they’ll meet again? Where? To the club?

To see Race again, Atlas went to the club every night. He’s optimistic that he will see Race outside the club.

He did that because he just wanted to invite Race to a party to thank that man for helping him the last time he got injured.

But that night he didn’t see a glimpse of Race. The other night too, there’s no trace of Race.

He waited the other night. Still no Race.

He was already irritated. He blamed himself for not asking Race for his number.

Atlas waited for Race outside the club for two weeks straight. He just wanted to say thank you, that’s all!

It’s already ten o’clock in the evening, the same time when he first met Race. But minutes passed, there’s still no sign of Race.

He pouted, and stood up. Atlas threw his cigarettes and stepped on it. Looking at his surroundings, he spotted a beautiful girl who looked at him seductively.

He licked his lips, and lit up a new cigarette. Leaning on the car that didn’t belong to him. He just felt like leaning on the car to look more seductive.

He looked at the girl, and he caught the girl’s eyes. Still looking at him.

His plan was to wait for the girl to come to him, he doesn’t like to first move. He never planned.

No way. I’m handsome and expensive. If they want my attention, then they should come to me.

“Hey,”

Atlas can’t help but grinned. He just won.

He threw his cigarette as he turned to face the girl. “Hey, sexy…” He seduces the girl as he caresses her waist.

“Why are you here? Bakit wala ka sa loob?” The girl asked him, rubbing her breast on Atlas’s chest.

Another cheap person is attracted to an expensive one.

“May mas maganda kasing babae rito,” a lie.

Numerous girls heard about this, but they still gave up.

“And who is that beautiful girl, hm?” The girl touched his jaw. Atlas simply drew back, he didn’t want the girl to kiss him.

“You, babe…”  Atlas whispered in her ear. The girl couldn’t help but chuckle as she felt Atlas’s hot breath. The girl was about to kiss him, but Atlas moved away.

“You? Why are you here outside, babe?” He asked back, his hands still placed on the girl’s hips.

“Well, like you…mas gusto ko rito dahil may guwapo,” she bit her lips. Grabbing a cigarette she put it on Atlas lips, and Atlas willingly accepted it.

Atlas lifted his brows as the girl grabbed a lighter and lit up the cigarette on his mouth.

“Bugahan mo nga ako ng usok,” she ordered seductively.

Atlas wanted to burst laughing, but he still blew a smoke on the girl’s face as the girl ordered him to do.

She moaned. “Sa’yo lang ako magpapabuga ng usok…you’re so hot, and I think you’re more than that when you’re naked.“

Atlas lifted his brows, and whispered. “Really?”

“Yeah…”

“You’re sexy and hot too…and I think you are gorgeous when you’re naked.”

“Let’s go then,” said the girl, and she held Atlas’s hand. “May malapit na hotel dito at may malapit na convenience store diyan na nagbebenta mg condom. Puwede tayong dumaan do’n bago dumiretso sa hotel.”

Atlas’s mouth forms an ‘O’, but he closes his mouth immediately.

He wet his lips as he laughed.

“Do you have a boyfriend?” Asked Atlas.

“No…I don’t have one—”

“Marisa!” Someone shouted.

Atlas whistled as he looked towards the man who shouted. His brow cocked after he saw a thin and small guy.

“Who’s this guy?!” Furious, the guy asked.

“George, why are you here?! We’re over right?!” She shouted.

Atlas crosses his arms while he’s watching the couple fighting.

“Ito ba ang pinalit mo sa akin?!”

Atlas laughed.

“Why are you laughing?! What’s funny?!” The guy asked, irritated. The guy was about to approach Atlas, but Atlas showed his toned body.

“Hindi na ako magtataka na hanggang ngayon ay masikip ka pa rin kahit hindi ka na virgin, ang liit ba naman ng putotoy ng boyfriend mo.” He chuckled, and shook his head.

The girl’s face was red.

“I’ll gotta go—”

“Wait! Where are you going, babe?” The girl stopped him.

Atlas arched his brow and said.  “You are not my girlfriend, so don’t call me babe.” After that he left.

He heard the girl cursed him, irritated by what he said. The couple continued fighting, but Atlas chose to ignore them.

He just shrugged his shoulders, and planned to go inside the club when he spotted a very familiar figure.

Huminto siya sa paglalakad at pinakatitigan ang isang taong naglalakad, naka hoodie ito kaya hindi kita ang mukha ng taong iyon.

Atlas stopped, and stared at the figure of a man walking, and he’s wearing a hoodie enough to hide his face.

But one person comes to mind. He remembers someone who wears a hoodie and that’s Race.

Atlas scoffed, running towards the man.

“Hey!” He called, and he got the man’s attention. Atlas stopped in front of the man, and couldn’t help but stare at the man. “It’s you,” He grinned when he saw the man’s face.

Confirmed, it’s Race

He’s so happy to see Race again. He felt like he hadn’t seen Race for a month! He really waited for Race to show up, so he can invite this man to the party.

“You smoke?” Face furrowed, Race asked as he gazed at the cigarettes in his hands.

“Yes. Is that a problem?” He asked, grinning.

“Yes,” Race replied, and kept a distance away from him.

Atlas lifted a brow, confused at Race’s sudden move.

Tossing the cigarette, he stepped on it. “Tss. Ano pa ba ang hindi mo gusto?” He asked, irritated.

“Sinabi ko lang naman na ayaw ko sa sigarilyo, hindi ko sinabing itapon mo,”

“Lumalayo ka kasi, eh. Kinakausap kita kaya huwag kang lumayo.” Said Atlas, rolling his eyes.

“Don’t come near me, too.”

Atlas’s jaw dropped. He can’t believe that Race said that to his face.

“Grabe! Ang arte mo!” Atlas furrowed, he didn’t move closer to Race since it seemed like Race didn’t want him to get closer.

“Bakit ngayon ka lang?” He asked after minutes passed.

“What do you mean?” Race frowned.

“I waited you here kasi nakalimutan kong hingin ang numero mo, anyayahan sana kitang magclubbing—”

“No, thanks. I don’t like clubbing—”

“Utot mo! Hindi ako naniniwala diyan. You know what? People loves to party—”

“—except me.” Pagputol nito sa sasabihin niya at nauna nang maglakad. Race cut him off, turned his back, and started walking away.

Atlas scratched his head, and he followed Race.

“Don’t come near me, keep your distance, please…” Race said when Atlas tried to get closer.

Atlas can’t help but his furrow deepened, and he doesn’t have a choice but to keep his distance.

“Why are you like that? You are so arte! Ganiyan ba ang tinuro ng mama mo sa’yo?”

Race looked at him, and didn’t talk.

“Hey! I’m talking to you!” Atlas waved his hand in front of Race. “O, ganiyan ba ang tinuro ng papa mo?” He added.

“My mom died when she gave birth to me,” Race simply answered.

Cat got Atlas’s tongue. He’s guilty of asking those things.

Next time, he needs to be more cautious with his words when he’s around Race. He felt that Race lived differently from him.

“I’m sorry…”

“Why do you want to invite me, anyway?”

He glanced at Race. He’s not used to Race asking him a question. It’s always him who’s always asking a question.

He’s really noisy. Can’t keep his mouth shut.

“I just want to say thank you for helping me—”

“I’m just being generous, hindi na ’yon mauulit.”

His jaw dropped. He walked past Race, and started walking backward.

“Bakit ka pala naglalakad? Wala ka bang sasakyan?” He’s just curious that’s why he asked.

“I have one, but I merely use it,”

Atlas nodded, and shut his mouth. He really intended to stay quiet, since he’s waiting for Race to ask him a question.

After a few minutes, Race didn’t talk.

“Ikaw? Hindi mo ba ako tatanungin kung wala akong sasakyan?” Asked Atlas, irritated. He just really want them to talk, but it seemed Race didn’t want to talk to him.

Race stared at him for a minute, and lifted his brow.

He took a heavy breathe, and said humbly. “Well, I have five wrangler, 4 sports car na bili ko pa sa ibang bansa. May tatlo akong big bike at sports motor. May isa akong McLaren at isang Mercedes Benz. May tatlong mountain bike—”

Race can’t help but sighed heavily.“I didn’t ask.” He said, bored.

Atlas shrugged his shoulders. “I just want you to know,” He pursed his lips, and he matched Race’s steps. “Inggit ka?” Atlas wiggled his brows.

“I love walking from the university to our subdivision. It can saves our planet—”

“Napaka nature lover mo naman. Love na love mo si Mother Earth. Nahihiya na ako sa’yo.” Atlas tried to joke, but Race didn’t laugh, so he laughed instead to support himself.

“I’m serious. Makakatulong ang paglalakad sa kalikasan, imbis na sumakay ng mga sasakyan na nagbubuga ng mga usok na nakakasira sa kalikasan mas mabuting maglalakad ka na lang. It’s an exercise too, it helps to stay our body healthy.”

Atlas scratched his head. He really can’t believe this guy! He must be different! He’s really different! What’s with this guy? He always makes Atlas shocked.

“Oo na, ikaw na ang mother earth lover,” He said and stopped in front of Race. Race stopped and looked at him. “Can I get your number?”  He didn’t waste the time. He didn’t even hesitate to ask Race his number.

“What? Why?” Race’s furrowed deeper.

“Para sa susunod ay hindi na ako maghihintay sa’yo sa labas ng club kung kailan ka dadaan. Tatawagan na lang kita o i-te-text kapag i-invite kita—”

“You don’t need to invite me. If that’s still about me helping you, then you don’t need to pay me or to invite me. It’s fine.” Race cut him off.

Atlas can’t help but feel irritated. Race really didn’t have a plan to give his phone number to Atlas.

“Then, from now on we are friends. Friends had their phone number to contact them. So, can I have your phone number? Friends na tayo right?”

Race titled his head, and asked him, “who told you?”

Atlas didn’t even try to hide his irritation.“Edi don’t! Don’t give my phone number to me,” He said, irritated, and walked passed by. “Thank you for helping me by the way.”

CHAPTER 3

“Hindi ka ba maglalakad ngayon?” Hades asked Race.

Race shook his head as he filled up his glass with water. “I’ll stay here, hindi muna ako maglalakad.”

Hades just nodded his head. He’s ready to jog with Race today.

“Okay, mag-iisa na lang muna ako ngayon,” Hades said while glancing towards Isaiah.

Sipping his coffee, Isaiah raised his brows. “I won’t come with you, tinatamad ako.”

Hades pouted, and said. “Okaaay. One day of solitude” Hades shrugged his shoulders as walked towards Isaiah and planted a kiss on Isaiah’s forehead.

“No sex with you—”

“Shut the fuck up, Hades,” Isaiah cut him off, and he stood up, “wait for me, I’ll come with you.“

Hades grinned wider. Seeing his father like that, Race couldn’t help but shake his head. He’s used to seeing and hearing his fathers like this. It’s not that he’s disgusted by it, yet he loved watching his fathers being sweet with each other. 

“That’s how you blackmail your father,” Hades winked at him. “You sure you won’t come with us?” Hades asked him again.

Race nodded, and he watched his father Isaiah climbing down the staircase—already wearing more comfortable clothes.

Hades patted his shoulder. “We have to go, anak.”

“Take care, both of you.” He said.

“Hey, don’t do such stupid things here, ’kay?” Isaiah also walked towards him to mess up his hair.

“I won’t.”

“Good,” he then turned to his husband. “And please, use another position.” Then they both walked away.

Speechless, Race just stared at the door. He can’t believe that Isaiah said that in front of him.

He blinked twice, and set his glass on the table.

He can’t stomach hearing it with other people, but it’s his parents so he’ll endure their sweetness. He loves seeing them happy, both in love with each other. Even though his parents fought sometimes, they will find a way to settle their fight. Race loves them even though they are crazy…sometimes.

Other’s have a family composed of a mother, and a father. But that’s his uniqueness, he’s unique from other people. He has two fathers who always supporter, and love him. They always filled up the love that others can’t give to their children. He doesn’t need a mother anymore, he already has two fathers. That’s enough for him.

Yes, his mother died when she gave birth to Hurace. Isaiah never opened up to him about his mother, but his father Hades told him the story. Race never saw the jealousy in Hades’ eyes. Hades told Race everything he needs to know because Race deserves to know about his mother after all.

Race already knew that he’s an offspring of Isaiah and his mother. Haded told him that Isaiah didn’t leave his mother alone, he’s there when he is still in his mother’s womb.

He just didn’t understand why his father Hades stayed with Isaiah even though Hades knew that Isaiah had a son with another woman. If it’s another man, perhaps they will leave, and won’t accept the child.

His Papa Hades loves his daddy Isaiah so much.

After he ate breakfast, he went back to his room, and sat on his bed. He remembered what happened the last time he talked with Atlas. That man asked for his number, yet he didn’t give his number.

He wanted to stay away from that boy since all the things he dislikes Atlas loves. That’s why he stayed away even though he wanted to be Atlas’s friend. He admitted that he also wants to be his friend because he doesn’t have one, yet he wanted to be friend Atlas who possesses the things he didn’t like.

Nonetheless, he doesn’t want someone to enter into his life. For Race, perhaps it’s fine to be alone than to have someone so noisy like Atlas. He just wanted to be alone or perhaps to grow older with his parents. He didn’t plan to let someone enter into his life, and to enter into a romantic relationship with a girl.

All people will die anyway. When someone dies, all the people around him will forget about him. Even though he has hundreds of friends, they buried your memories with him in his grief. That’s what Race though.

He opened his Instagram account, and to Race’s surprise, he saw Atlas’s account on the top of his recommendation, and his username made him facepalm.

@bjatlas

That’s his username. Race knew what ‘bj’ is, but he chose to shake off his thoughts.

Without hesitation he tapped Atlas’ account. He can’t believe that he stalked this guy.

9k followers and 200 following.

Race scrolled down. Most of Atlas’s posts he was wearing a boxer. Race tapped one of Atlas’s posts, and he couldn’t help but raise his brows as he read the caption.

@bjatlas Another episode of girls drooling after they saw this pic. Yum!

He really has a gut to post these kinds of pictures which attract more viewers—mostly girls.

There’s a picture that catches Race’s attention. He tapped the picture, just like the other pictures Atlas posted, he still wore his favorite boxer. Race read the caption below.

@bjatlas life fuck me hard, and I wholeheartedly bend, so life can fuck me better from behind. Yum! #lifesucks

Race bit his lips to prevent from laughing after he read the caption. He really couldn’t believe that this man existed. He doesn’t care about the world, he doesn’t care he posted lewd. Race thought that Atlas was just expressing himself.

Race scrolled up, and stared at Atlas’s profile picture. He tapped it, but he accidentally tapped the follow button.

His world stopped as well as his breathing.

Shit.

He was about to unfollow Atlas when notification popped, and someone messaged him.

He read it.

@bjatlas: tsk. Ang lakas mong mag first move.

His brow raised.

He’s the one who messaged me first. Race says to himself.

@h.race: It was an accident.

@bjatlas: sus, I’m not buying that reason! You stalked me! I didn’t know that you’re a stalker, Race.

He just shook his head. It’s true that he accidentally followed him. Race just wanted to see his profile picture, yet he admitted that he stalked Atlas.

@h.race: don’t feel special. Ig, recommend it.

@bjatlas: weeeeeee??🧐🧐

He didn’t reply. Minutes later Atlas messaged him again.

@bjatlas: okaaay. Fine! Just give me your phone number, and I won’t let them know that you stalked me, Mr. Stalker.

@bjatlas: at huwag mong iisipin na special ka, ha?!

His brow rose when he read the message.

@h.race: why bj?

@bjatlas: BIG JOHN. Akala mo blow job no? Ang bastos mooo!

Race regrets asking him that. Atlas is a man, but possesses the mouth of a woman.

@bjatlas: gimme your phone number.

@h.race: what for?

@bjatlas: huwag kang pabebe @h.race, hindi ka babae.

Race’s blood boiled as he read the message. He’s getting into his nerves. Race regretted that he replied to this guy.

At the end, he gave his phone number to Atlas, and the guy messaged him immediately.

Atlas: Bar hopping tayo, mamayang gabi.

Race: No.

Atlas: Hindi ka naman iinom. Sasama ka, friend na tayo ’di ba?

Race’s brow raised at the message. He didn’t know that Atlas and him are already friends.

Who told him that? Self proclaimed friend.

Atlas: Mamayang gabi. 8:00 pm, sa labas lang ako maghihintay sa’yo. Doon pa rin sa club kung saan tayo nagkita.

Race didn’t reply, Atlas didn’t bug him either so that’s fine. After he rested a bit, he went to the dining area, and he saw his parents.

“Hey, how’s your rest?” His daddy asked him.

“Fine, dad,” replied Race.

Hades walked towards him, and looped his arms on Race’s shoulder.

“Nineteen ka na, wala pa rin bang girlfriend?” Hades cocked an eyebrow. “Or boyfriend?” He added. “No offense, son. Hindi ko kasi alam kung ano ang gusto mo.” Hades pointed out.

Race didn’t feel offended, he just shook his head, and patted his father’s back. “I’m fine, pa. I don’t need a girlfriend, and I don’t want to enter into a romantic relationship.” He admitted.

He saw his parents looking at each other. Worried flashed in their eyes as they gazed at him back.

“I’ll find you a girlfriend—”

“No, thanks, Pa. I don’t need one. Ayos na ako rito,” he cut his father off.

Isaiah approached him. “No pressure, son. But, I want three grandchildren,”

“No pressure pero prinissure mo.” Said Hades. Isaiah glared at him that made him shut his mouth.

Race sighed. “I’ll tell you if I like someone or I find someone,”

His parents nodded in unison.

Isaiah said, “just gave me three grandchildren—”

“What if he likes a man, and not a woman?” His father Hades asked his husband, Isaiah.

They looked at each other for a while, after that Isaiah glanced at him and asked. “Do you prefer men?”

He spaced out. He liked someone way back when he was a sophomore, but it didn’t last long. The girl he liked way back doesn’t like him back since that girl likes someone. Notwithstanding, he didn’t like a guy before. He prefers women, that’s all. Race shook his head to answered his father’s question

“No…” He said, carefully.

His parents nodded again in unison. Hades patted his back again.

“Man or not. Woman or not. Kung saan ka masaya doon kami ng daddy mo.”

Race didn’t hide the smile on his face. “Thanks, Pa.”

However, Race doesn’t have a plan to enter into a romantic relationship. He doesn’t plan to have a girlfriend. He believes that when he dies, those people near him will forget about him.

Maybe, they will mourn, but days after they will forget about him.

“Ipakilala mo kaagad sa amin ang babae na ’yan, ah?” Hades said, grinning. He walked towards Isaiah and hugged the man from behind.

They are sweet. Sweeter than the sugar, but he never looked away whenever he saw his father like this. He wanted to see how sweet, and clingy they are with each other.

“Yes, sure.” He assured them even though deep inside he doesn’t want one.

“Ah, about your bucket list,” saidIsaiah. “Anong sunod sa list mo?”

The last thing they did was hiking, it’s on Race’s bucket list. He went hiking with his parents since his parents won’t let him go alone. It’s his first time going hiking. It’s a tough journey, and really exhausting, but when they reached the peak all of their exhaustion vanished as they saw the beautiful scenery.

He went with his parents, but it looked like he went there alone since after they reached the top, his parents vanished on his sight.

“Travel,” he replied.

His parents smiled at him. “Where, son?” His daddy asked him.

“Europe.”

They nodded. “Kailan ka aalis? Gusto mo sasama kami—”

“I want to go alone this time.” He said, carefully. He thought that he would hurt his parents because of what he said.

But his parents just smiled at him. “When?”

He shrugged his shoulders. “I don’t know… I haven’t set the date yet,”

“Okay. Just tell us when.” Hades said with an assuring smile.

After a moment of silence, Race cleared his throat. He needs to tell them that he’ll go out later in the evening. He doesn’t want his parents to worry about him.

“Dad, Pa,” he started. Race cleared his throat before he continued. “My friend…” He didn’t realize that he said friend. He cleared his throat again. “He invited me to a club—”

“Do you want to go there?” His daddy cut him off.

He blinked, and hesitated for a while. He’s worried that his parents won’t let him.

“Hindi ako iinom at hindi rin ako naninigarilyo.” He murmured.

Isaiah nodded, but he didn’t try to hide the worry on his face.

“Okay…”

“If you didn’t want me to go, I won’t. I-te-text ko na lang siya na hindi—”

“It’s fine, son. Hindi naman namin gusto na ikukulong ka namin dito. Just take care, okay?”

Race nodded at his father.

“Kailan kayo pupunta sa club?”

“Tonight,”

Even though worries hinted at their faces, they still nodded. They really can’t help but worry about their son since it’s his first time going to a club.

“Is he?” Hades asked him. “I mean your friend?”

Isaiah elbowed Hades.

“Ow! What was that for?” Haded asked.

“Stop asking. It’s him and he’s just a friend.”

Race parents fought for a while. He understood why his Papa asked him that. Perhaps Hades thought that Race had a romantic relationship with some guy.

“I prefer a woman, Pa. I don’t like that man. He’s just a friend.”

Hades raised his brows, but did not ask further. Race sighed heavily when they changed the topic. He doesn’t like to talk about his relationship status.

Dumating ang gabi at nakabihis na si Race pero ang tagal niyang nakaalis sa bahay nila dahil ang daming paalala ng kaniyang daddy Isaiah.

The night came, and Race already wore decent clothes. He left home late since his parents had a ton of words for him before they let Race leave.

He checked his phone.  He was greeted by Atlas’s messages.

Atlas: Where na u?

Atlas: 8:00 na. Nasaan ka na?

Atlas: sisipot ka ba o hindi?

Atlas: pinaasa mo lang ako, eh.

Atlas: Raceeeee!

He just shrugged his shoulders. He didn’t reply, he just shoved his phone back into his pocket. Race has a valid reason why he’s late.

8:50 p.m. when he finally arrived at the club where him and Atlas first met. There’s a lot of cars parked outside the club, and from the outside he can hear the loud voice, and loud music coming from the inside.

“Tatawagan ko na lang po kayo, Mang Ben kapag uuwi na ako,” he said to the driver.

“Yes, Sir.”

He stepped out of the car, and called his father as he promised.

“Dad—”

“Are you safe?”

“Yeah. Safe and sound.”

He heard Isaiah’s loud, and heavy sighed from the other line.

“Take care and enjoy, son.”

He nodded as he hang-up the call. Race didn’t even bother to message Atlas to ask where he is right now, because he knew where Atlas was waiting for him.

Race walked towards the club, and he spotted Atlas immediately, puffing a smoke.

He raised his brows, and stopped in front of Atlas, but he kept a distance away from the man.

“Akala ko hindi ka na darating,” said Atlas, tossing his cigarette away.

“I didn’t say—”

“8:00 pm ang sabi ko hindi 9:00 pm.” Atlas cut him off.

Race just shrugged his shoulders in response.

Atlas tsked and walked inside the club. “Let’s go inside.”

He followed Atlas inside. Race was greeted by the loud music, and the people dancing on the dancefloor. Some of them were flirting, and some were drinking.

He hates all of this and he doesn’t know why he’s here in the first place.

All of the things he dislikes were here. Cigarettes. Smoke. Hard liquors. Loud music, and rabble.

He dragged back from his reverie when someone grabbed his hand. He looked at who grabbed him.

“Bakit hindi ka sumusunod sa akin?” Atlas asked, brow furrowed. Atlas raised his voice since they won’t hear themselves because of the loud music.

Race let Atlas grab him, until they reached the wide couch where some guys were sitting there with their partners.

“Atlas!” Sigaw ng babae, tumayo ito at sinalubong si Atlas ng halik sa labi.

A girl called Atlas, she approached Atlas, and gave him a kiss on his lips.

Binatawan siya ni Atlas para humalik pabalik sa babae-isang malalim na halik na matagal natapos.

Race stole his hand back from Atlas, since Race knew that Atlas would kiss the girl back.

Race averted his eyes. He just looked at his surroundings, after that he looked down to the people sitting on the couch watching Atlas, and the girl making a scene.

They are smiling while watching the two kissing, and while their partners kissing their bodies too.

Race couldn’t help but raise his brows, and shook his head.

“Hey, everyone!”

Atlas called everyone’s attention.

Atlas rested his arms on Race’s shoulder. “I would like you to meet my friend,”

We are not friends. He said to his mind.

“Everyone, this is Race!”

Atlas’s acquaintances nodded at Race, so he nodded back to respect them.

“This is his first time to enter a club,” Atlas continued talking. Atlas grabbed him, and let him sit on the couch.“Strict kasi ang parents!”

They all laughed.

“Do you have a girlfriend?” One of the girl asked

He looked at the girl, she’s not his type.

“Wala. Single since birth!” Atlas answered for him.

Another bark of laughter.

Someone gave him a glass of liquor, but he shook his head.

“Welcome, Race! Inom ka muna, this is your welcome party dahil finally nakapasok ka na sa club!” The boy said to Race.

Race shook his head again.“Thanks, but I don’t like drinking liquor —”

“Uminom ka dapat! This is your first time! Dapat mag enjoy ka! Enjoy the rest of the night!” The other boy said.

“Maraming babae diyan sa tabi. Manghila ka lang at dalhin mo sa gilid, doon sa madilim and make her come.” Atlas’s friends laughed at him.

Race ignored the boys. Bumaling siya kay Atlas na umiinom ng alak at may babae sa tabi niya na hinahaplos ang dibdib niya.

He looked at Atlas who’s gulping a glass of hard liquor while his girl was kissing his body, and caressing his chest.

“Go on, Race. Uminom ka na. My friend’s right, you should enjoy the rest of your night! This is your first time—”

“You said hindi mo ako pipilitin na uminom. That’s the reason why I came here.” Said Race in a firm voice, but it looks like Atlas didn’t hear him because Atlas gave him a glass of liquor.

“Enjoy your night, Race. Gusto mo ng babae? Hahanap ako para sa’yo. I tell you, mas masarap uminom na may humahaplos sa katawan mo.” Atlas laughed, and he looked at the girl to gave her a deep kiss.

Race averted his eyes again to give the couple privacy. When his parents kissed in front of him, he didn’t avert his eyes, but when someone kissed in front of him he couldn’t look at them.

“Hey, Race.” A girl approached him.

He jerked when the girl touched his shoulder. He cringes because of the touch. He doesn’t like someone touching him without his permission.

“Please, stay away from me,” He said in a nice way because he didn’t want to hurt the girl’s feelings.

He thought everyone heard him because they all laughed at Race’s reaction when the girl touched him.

“Seriously, man? Kahit kailan hindi ka nahawakan ng babae? Wala ka pang girlfriend?” One brow raised, the man in front of him asked.

He didn’t know his name.

“Wala sa isipan ko ang mag girlfriend,” Race raised his voice so everyone on the couch could hear him.

“Aw,” the girl said. “Wala ka pa palang experience.” She laughed and touched him again. “Ngayong gabi, mae-experience mo lahat ng hindi mo pa na e-experience. Hayaan mo ako na iparamdam at ipa experience ko sa’yo lahat ng ’yon.”

No. Race said to his mind.

He regretted coming here. It looks like Atlas forgot what they agreed earlier as they talked.

“Takot ata siya sa babae,” Atlas’s acquaintance said

“Hindi na ’yan matatakot kung maka tikim na ’yan.” The girl said beside Atlas.

Race looked at Atlas for some help, but Atlas didn’t look at him. Race’s eyes darken, and narrowed. He doesn’t like what happened to him. He felt like these guys were teasing him, and made fun of him being inexperienced.

Race shook his head, silently saying that he doesn’t like this anymore. And Atlas saw him.

Atlas saw it.

Atlas cleared his throat and he faced his acquaintances. “Guys, guys!” He called their attention. “Leave Race alone. He said already, he doesn’t like this, okay? So, let’s respect it.”

“Just one shot!” One of the girls shouted, raising a glass of liquor.

Everyone agreed except Race. They all raised their glass, and a girl gave Race a glass.

Race shook his head. He shook his head several times, hoping that they will understand that he doesn’t want to drink

“Shot! Shot! Shot! Shot!” They all chanted.

“Shot! Shot! Shot!”

He shook his head again, glancing at Atlas and to his surprised Atlas joined them—chanting and cheering for him to drink a one glass of liquor n

“Just one shot, Race,” said Atlas, and shoved the glass on his hand. “Wala naman sigurong mawawala kung iinom ka ’di ba? Tsaka kung pinoproblema mo ang parents mo, huwag kang mag-alala dahil may mouthwash kami rito para hindi ka mangamoy alak pag-uwi mo.” Atlas assured him, but Race didn’t like what Atlas said.

Before he agreed about this, he made himself clear that he wouldn’t drink.

He’s irritated, and mad at Atlas

“We have condoms, too, dude! Baka gusto mo lang naman humingi, libre lang. Baka kasi mamaya ay mawala na kayo ni Thalia.” The man wiggled the condoms in front of Race.

Race swallowed, and was about to stand when Atlas stopped him.

He wants to go home. He wants to get out of here. He clearly doesn’t like his surroundings—the people, and all.

“Just one shot, come on.” Atlas wiggled his eyebrows.

Race scoffed, and to get over with this, he grabbed the glass and gulped down the liquor. He tasted the heavy liquor on his throat, and he doesn’t like the taste of it.

Everyone cheered for him. They think that races like this but definitely he’s not having fun anymore. He’s angry. He’s mad, and he wants to get out of here. That’s what he wanted to do right now—to get out of this place.

For everyone, this is heaven, but for him it’s not. It’s hell for him.

“Shot! Shot! Shot!” They chanted.

May tumapik sa balikat niya at nang nilingon niya ito binugahan siya nito ng usok.

Someone patted his shoulder, and when he glanced someone puffed a smoke on his face that made him cough so hard. Race held his throat as he continued coughing.

“Thalia!” Atlas shouted. “Hey, are you all right?” Atlas asked, worried.

He threw a death glare towards him.Race wanted to shout at him, but he couldn’t stop from coughing.

“May hika ka?” Atlas asked him, worried.

“W-Wala.” He tried to say.

Race calmed himself down. He gasped for air, and when his breath calmed down he stood up, ready to leave when Atlas stopped him.

Race glared at him. He hates this guy.

“Stay, okay? Sabay tayong aalis.” Said Atlas.

He shook his head, and retorted,  “I want to get out—”

“Yeah, later, okay? Sabay tayo,” Atlas guided him to sit. “And I’m so sorry for that.” Said Atlas.

“Aalis na ako—”

“Ow! What the fuck! Gays!”

They both looked at the direction, Race was ready to deny and to explain. But to Race surprised, it’s not them that Atlas’s friends talked about being gays

They followed Atlas’s friends, and they saw a gay couple making out on the couch.

“Disgusting,” the other one said.

Race looked at the man. They didn’t hide the disgust on their faces. It showed on their face that they dislike seeing the gay couple.

“Pareho naman ata silang may penis pero bakit penis pa rin ang hanap nila?” Someone said.

For Race, it’s not a problem seeing a gay couple making out in a club, but he can’t understand why these guys don’t like it. Why can’t they prevent their mouths from saying something like that? Can’t they just close their mouths, and ignore the couple?

“Disgusting,”  Atlas said as he shook his head.

Race stared at Atlas, he wanted to punch this guy.

It’s not disgusting. He wanted to say it aloud but he stopped himself. These people can’t understand him if he’ll protect the couple. Perhaps they didn’t used to see a gay couple making out.

Race wanted to understand them. He tried to understand these people since they grew up different from him who grew up with two fathers.

“Disgusting, shit!” Atlas laughed, and looked at him. “I really don’t like gays,” Atlas said to him. “I hate seeing gays. Nandidiri ako.”

“Hey!” Atlas shouted at the couple. “Stay away from here! Stay away from us! I don’t like seeing you here! Pathetic gays! You are disgusting!“

Atlas friend’s laughed. They all laughed. For them it’s funny but for Race it’s not.

His chest heaving as he tried to calm himself. He wanted to punch Atlas. His hands clenched. He clenched and unclenched his fist.

He thought about his parents, and his blood boiled in an instant at the thought of someone saying like these to his parents.

He stood up, clenching his fist. He patted Atlas’s shoulder, and when Atlas whipped his head at him, Race didn’t hesitate to throw his clenched fist on Atlas’s face.

“What the fuck—”

He punched Atlas again.

“Hey! What the fuck is your—”

He threw  another punch.

He grabbed Atlas’s collar. Rage flashes in his eyes.

“Say that again, and I’ll kill you myself. Remember, Atlas, those gays are humans too. Better choose your words before you say it aloud.” He threatened Atlas in a firm voice  “And you deserved my punch. You deserved more than a punch.”

He shoved Atlas away, and without glancing back he stormed out of the club with chest heaving. He regretted coming here, if he knew that this would happen, and if he knew that Atlas was like this, he wouldn’t have agreed to come.

But he didn’t regret what he did to Atlas. He fucking deserved that.

CHAPTER 4

The fuck.

Atlas couldn’t move from his seat.

He caresses his jaw, it’s throbbing because of Race’s punches earlier. He didn’t even know why Race punched him.

“Gusto mo pagtulungan natin ang lalaking ’yon?” His friend asked, seriously.

Atlas shook his head immediately. “No,” he replied.

He stood up, and he followed Race immediately. He looked at his surroundings, he’s looking for Race. When Atlas saw his figure, he ran as fast as he could.

This man! He pinched me, and I didn’t know the reason!

“Hey!” He shouted. Race didn’t stop, he continued walking as if he didn’t hear Atlas. “Hey! You!” He shouted again.

This time Race stopped, yet Race didn’t look at him. Atlas sighed heavily as he walked towards Race while holding his jaw.

“What’s that for?” He asked, irritated. “Why did you punch me? What’s your problem?” He added.

“You. You are the problem, Atlas.” Race turned to face him, and Atlas couldn’t believe it when he saw Race’s face full of rage.

He won’t forget Race’s pair of eyes. Atlas was just staring at Race’s eyes as Race punched him earlier. Atlas can’t look away as if he was hypnotized.

He admitted that he felt nervous seeing Race gone mad, but there’s a part of him that was happy to see Race’s side.

Eyes full of rage.

“What did I do?!” He asked, desperately.

He wanted to know why Race punched him so hard! He thought that he would lose his handsomeness just because of that hard punch.

“You didn’t know what you’ve done?” Race asked, and stepped closer to him.

He shook his head innocently. “No. I’m completely clueless why you punched me, and I want to know why.”

Race stepped closer. They are inches away from each other, and Atlas feels Race’s hot breath.

Atlas didn’t flinch nor step back.

He stared at Race, he challenged the man in front of him. Race’s eyes darken

“Care to tell me—”

“You insulted them,”

“Who?” He asked, innocently. “Wala akong ininsulto—”

“The gays. You insulted them.” Race answered, voices were firm.

“Oh,” he blinked after he realized.

He remembered. He understands where Race’s furious came from, and why Race punched him.

“Totoo naman—” Race didn’t let him finish talking. Race punched him again.

“Hey! Naka ilan ka na sa akin ngayon, ah!”

“You deserved that!”

“Ba’t ka galit?” Atlas asked Race again, holding his jaw.

“Wala ka namang karapatan na insultuhin sila,” Race said in a low voice, he’s still mad. “Wala naman silang ginawa sa inyo ’di ba? Bakit pinapakialaman niyo sila? Nanamihik sila sa tabi pero iniinsulto ninyo sila.”

Atlas can’t help but pout, yet he didn’t talk because he’s afraid that Race might kill him right now.

“Matagal na ba kayong ganiyan?” Race asked him in a firm voice.

Atlas pursed his lips as he nodded his head.

Race seemed didn’t like his answer because the man scoffed, and he stepped away—keeping the distance from him.

“Madumi kasi—”

“Mas madumi ka.” Race cut him off.

Atlas couldn’t hide his shock as he stared at the man in front of him. He can’t believed that Race was mad at him just because he said insulted the gays earlier?

Race turned his back and started walking away from him. Scratching his head, Atlas followed Race.

“Okay! I’m so sorry!” Exclaimed Atlas, stim following Race. “Hindi ko na ’yon uulitin!”

He can’t understand why he’s apologizing to this guy when Atlas believes that he did nothing wrong? And he can’t understand why he followed this guy, he should have let Race walk away, but look at him now, he’s following a man who possesses a woman in his body.

“Hoy! Sorry na nga, eh! Hindi na uulitin!”

He ran his fingers through his hair when Race ignored him.

“Hoy! Huwag mo akong dedmahin! Pabebe ’to!”

He grinned when Race suddenly stopped. Atlas looked away immediately, and he pretended to whistle.

From his peripheral vision he saw Race glaring at him.

“Mag sorry ka sa kanila,”

“How? Hindi ko naman na sila mahahanap sa loob, eh. Malaki kaya ang club—”

“Then, don’t do that again.” Race turned his back again, and continued walking.

Atlas pursed his lips as he watched Race walking away from him.

“Sorry!” He shouted again, but he did not follow Race. “Sorry dahil pinilit kita uminom kanina!” He made sure that Race heard him.  “I’m so sorry, okay? Sorry, hindi na ’yon mauulit. Hindi na kita pipiliting uminom at hindi na kita yayaing mag club!” He added.

He hoped Race heard him.

“Your punches were really, really good!” He shouted. “Like, it’s so fucking good! I have a cut on my lips!”

He didn’t receive a response from Race.

He asked. He just lets Race walk away, until he can’t see the man anymore.

He can’t understand why he needs to say sorry, but deep inside he wanted to say sorry. He didn’t want Race to get mad at him, he didn’t want Race to ignore him. He wanted Race to be his friend, that’s why he invited Race tonight, but he did not know that it would turn out this way.

Minutes later, he smiled alone as he remembered Race’s face while punching his handsome face.

“Ang lakas naman no’ng sumuntok. Akala ko si idol Manny Pacquiao na ang sumusunod na sa akin.” Shaking his head, Atlas headed back to the club parking lot, and he headed home.

He lost his appetite after what happened.

“Sir, your father will be expecting you in the study,” his father’s right hand man greeted him.

Lazily, Atlas climbed on the stairs, and headed to his father’s study. To his surprise, he saw his siblings there, and his mother.

It means they have something important to discuss since they are all present m

“Did you get into a fight again?” His mother asked him.

He chose to sit away from his siblings.

“Wala—”

“Seriously? Kitang kita sa mukha mo na napaaway ka,” said his sister Amber.

“Hinayaan ko siyang suntukin ako. Hindi ako nakipag-away.” He responded.

“It’s new. Hinayaan mo siyang suntukin ka niya? Wow, ah. Hindi ako naniniwala diyan. You are lying again, Atlas. Malamang nakikipag basag ulo ka na naman—”

“That’s enough.” Their father meddled, and his siblings shut their mouths.

His brother whistled, and his father shot him a sharp look.

“We are all here,” his father started, and he settled himself on his chair.

While massaging his jaw, he felt someone’s presence beside him. Without looking he knew who’s that person m

“You punched you?” Asked August.

“Why do you care?”

August shrugged his shoulder. “I wanna meet him. It’s look like may nakakapantay na sa iyo ngayon. It’s new na nagpapasuntok ka,” August looked at his swollen jaw, and the cut on his lips. “Malakas sumuntok?”

Atlas rolled his eyes. “Yeah—”

“Geez, bro! Bakit hindi ka lumaban? Bakit hindi mo sinuntok pabalik? Why did you let him punched you, huh? Kung ako ’yan baka binasag ko na pagmumukha no’n—”

Someone cleared a throat.

Both of them sat properly, and they focused their attention on their Father.

“Puwede ba umayos naman kayong dalawa diyan. Kahit ngayong gabi lang.” Artemis glared at them.

“Maayos naman kami, nagkuwentohan lang,” said his brother. “Namiss kasi namin ang isa’t isa. Right bro?” August glanced at him.

He looked at August, and said. “No.”

“Ouch.”

Their father cleared his throat to catch their attention. And he got it.

“Next week is the big day,” he started.

They looked at each other. Curious about the word big day.

Amber and Artemis looked at each other, and slowly they smiled, while August murmured ‘yes’ under his breath.

Big day means there’s a transaction that will happen next week. New client. More money.

That big day is the illegal transactions with other countries.

“Yes, children. Next week, 29th of July is the big big big day for us.” His father added. He stood up, and started walking around the room. “May darating na bagong mga kagamitan galing Russia—”

“It’s illegal—” he tried to cut off his father.

“Kailan pa naging legal ang negosyo natin, Atlas?” His brother interfered.

Atlss shut his mouth, and leaned on his chair.

His father continued talking. “As I said, may mga bagong kagamitan na darating sa susunod na linggo. Guns—”

“Sweet.” His brother smiled.

“Yes, son. It’s so sweet.” His father agreed, and both of his sisters goggled. “Walang alam ang mga pulisya sa illegal na transaksyon na ito—ang pagpupuslit ng mga armas pero kailangan nating magpakasiguro.” Their father continued. “Kailangan nating siguradohin na walang hahadlang sa mga plano natin. Kapag mapasaatin na ang mga armas na ’yon ay maibebenta natin ’yon sa mahal na presyo—”

“Maraming bibili lalo na ang mga taong nasa organisasyon.” Their mother continued. “Tayo ang source ng mga armas nila—ang mga pangangailangan nila. Kaya dapat walang hadlang sa transaksyon na magaganap sa susunod na linggo.”

Their mother looked at them one-by-one. “And I want to you to look out for the Servantes and the Monteverde. They are hindrance in this transaction, lalo na ang mga Petroville. They are all nuisance! Kung hahadlang sila ay ipatumba ninyo kaagad.”

Atlas looked down at his nails, and chose to play with his nails.

This is his parents’ business since— he didn’t know. Perhaps his parents joined this illegal organization before he was born. His parents didn’t have a legal business, they are all illegal.

The weapons from other countries will be shipped next week. They are expecting weapons to arrive next week, and that means he’s back to his job.

Since he was a kid, his parents taught him how to aim. But as a child, he was afraid to hold a gun, and even kill someone. His father always punished him every time he didn’t hold the gun.

His father won’t let him eat for a day or a week if he fails. Atlas remembered clearly, it’s still vivid in his mind the days when his father won’t let him eat, but he was just standing, and watching his siblings eating delicious food.

While he was taught to aim, to hold a gun, and to kill someone. His siblings were taught to manage the business, the transaction between the other countries. On the other hand, his elder brother wasn’t taught how to hold a gun, but he was taught in hand-to-hand combat.

Years had passed, he taught himself to fight in hand-to-hand combat to protect himself from danger. He just let those gangsters punch him since he can kill them easily. There’s no fun fighting with those cheap gangsters.

He never was in the transactions, he was always the lookout. He killed those people who tried to interfere, or those people who were a hindrance to the transactions.

“July 29th,” Amber said. “May party na mangyayari ’di ba? Doon sa mga Russo and malapit sa pantalan ang mansyon nila kung saan gaganapin ang transaksyon.”

They all went silent. Atlas didn’t try to talk, every time they had a conversation about transactions he just kept his mouth shut, he really didn’t want to give a comment. If his father told him to stay on guard or to kill certain people that his father thinks will be a hindrance to the transaction, then he will do it since it’s his job.

“Actually, dear, a-attend kami sa party,” his mother said with a smile. “Kayo ni Artemis at August ang haharap at hahawak ng transaksyon. People want us there, they expected us to come, so we will come para hindi nila mahalata na may transaksyon na nangyayari. And while we were their,” his mother looked at him. “Si Atlas ang magbabantay sa amin mula sa malayo para masabi namin kaagad sa kanila kung sino ang ide-despatsya ko kapag nalaman kong may nalalaman ang mga tao roon about sa transaksyon.”

“Hindi ba risky ’yon? Malapit lang sa—”

“No, dear,” his mother smiled sweetly at his sister Artemi. “Ililipat ang transaksyon. Hindi na roon sa pantalan kung saan malapit sa mga Russo. Sa ibang lugar isasagawa ang transaksyon at hinihiling ko na sana ay hindi kayo gagawa ng gulo.”

The meeting was adjourned. He was so silent the whole meeting.

Holding a cold compressor, he walked into his room.

He didn’t want this business. But, he has nothing to do since his parents shoved him in this kind of business.

Kinuha niya ang kaniyang cellphone at i-cha-chat na sana niya si Race sa Instagram pero laking gulat niya nang naka block na siya. He tried to call Race through phone numbers pero hindi na rin niya matawagan dahil naka block na rin siya.

He grabbed his phone to message Race on Instagram, but to his shock he was already blocked by the user. He tried to call Race through his phone number, but he still can’t contact Race because his phone number was also blocked from Race’s phone.

He created another Instagram account immediately then he chatted with Race.

@illsuckyoutillimsickofit: hey! How dare you block me here on Instagram and block my phone number?!

Minutes passed, and Race replied.

@h.race: who’s this?

@illsuckyoutillimsickofit: it’s me Atlas.

@h.race: not shocking. You always had the worst username.

Atlas scoffed as he read his username before he typed for a reply.

@illsuckyoutillimsickofit: it’s unique.

@h.race: no. It’s not. It’s disgusting.

@illsuckyoutillimsickofit: Well, it’s not the real thing here. I want you to unblock me.

@h.race: not gonna happen.

Irritated, Atlas typed for a retort, but he couldn’t send his message since Race blocked him again.

Atlas created another account.

@imhandsomeandeveryonewantstofuck_me: heeeyyy!!!! Unblock me or I’ll annoy you foreverrrr!

Atlas threw the cold compressor, and he lay his back on his bed as he waited for Race’s reply. His heart jumped when Race read his message, but he received nothing. He was about to type another message, but he couldn’t message the person again.

Race blocked him again.

“Fuck!” He shouted, irritatedly. He created another account. Everytime he created an account, and messaged Race, Race always blocked him.

He won’t get tired creating accounts until Race gets tired of him.

@at_last: happy now?

He stared on his screen, waiting for Race to respond to his message.

He’s sad for his username. He really needs to change it or else Race won’t stop blocking every account he’ll make.

@h.race: unblock ka na.

@at_last: which one? Ang dami ko kayang account na binlock mo.

@h.race: @bjatlas

Atlas can’t help but grinned, and typed a response.

@at_last: you like it more, huh. You want bj?

Now. His account got blocked again.

He wanted to say. Buko Juice, and not blow Job!

CHAPTER 5

He’s ignoring him.

Race ignoring Atlas for a week!

Atlas tried to message Race on Instagram, and he can’t remember how many times he tried to message Race. His account was blocked, also his phone number from the user. He can’t send a message anymore!

He also waited for Race outside the club for many nights, hoping that he would see Race again. But he didn’t see Race, even his shadow.

He kept on denying that he missed the Race. He kept on saying that he just wanted to see Race because he loved teasing that man. Race always has the best reaction every time he teases the man.

He loves making Race mad. He loves to see him mad, and glaring at him like Race gonna kill him with those deadly stares.

He didn’t miss Race! He swore to God! He didn’t miss Race! He swore to God again.

Why would I miss him? He fucking punched me last week! My fucking gorgeous face!

He didn’t miss him, not a millimeter. He didn’t miss him! He doesn’t care if he can’t contact him or talk to him. He swore to God that even a millimeter he didn’t miss Race. He didn’t miss Race! He didn’t—

“Where are you going, Atlas?” His sister Amanda asked him.

He didn’t even glance at his sister as he continued walking.

“Sa labas lang,”

He’s in his usual clothes. Pajamas and black t-shirt.

“And why?” His sister stalked him behind.

“Bibili ako ng bagong sim,” he answered without looking at her.

“Gumagana pa naman ang sim mo.”

He tried to not roll his eyes. “Bibili ako ng bago. Naka block ako sa cellphone niya. Humanda lang siya sa akin,” he said. He was actually talking to himself.

Damn. He didn’t miss Race a millimeter. Really.

“Bumalik ka kaagad para magsanay. Malapit na ’yong shipping ng mga armas kailangan nating maghanda.”

Shrugging, he said, “I am good in all things. It’s easy to shoot a thousand people on the head.”

Cocky as ever.

He went out, and started walking towards the sari-sari store inside the subdivision.

“Ate Teresa,” he called.  “Pabili nga po ng sim, ’yong globe po, ah.” He said, and he give his black card.

The lady snorted. “Hindi kami tumatanggap ng card, Atlas,” she said. “At ingatan mo ’yang card mo baka mamaya ay manakaw ’yan.”

“Hindi ’yan, Ate,” he replied. “Wala ’tong . For the char lang ’to.” Atlas laughed at his own joke, and he grabbed a one thousand pesos in his pocket.

The truth is, his card is not empty. Every week his mother sent him money, that’s his wages for doing his job.

“May girlfriend ka na, Atlas ’no?” The lady asked him.

He shook his head and chuckled. “Bakit po? May plano ka pong ligawan ako?” He joked, but the lady went scarlet.

“Nagtanong lang! Ikaw talaga bata ka!”

He laughed, and he put Race’s number on his contact list. He did not try to call Race since he knew that once he called Race, he’d block Atlas again.

“Hindi naman ako naniniwalang wala kang girlfriend, Atlas,”

Atlas looked at the lady. “Maniwala ka, ate. Wala akong girlfriend,” he chuckled. “Gusto mo mag-apply?” He joked again.

He really loved seeing people flushed because of him.

“Tama nga ang sinabi nila,”

“Na ano po?”

The lady smiled. “Na malandi ka. Ang galing mo kasing magpakilig ng babae.”

He took it as a complement. He really loves when someone compliments him that he’s flirty. He felt like there’s butterflies flying around him, and a spotlight pointed at him.

“Talaga?” He said with a smile. “Nako, ate, nahihiya naman po ako. Hindi naman po ako malandi, guwapo lang ako.” He trailed off.

After that, he went back to his home. His left, and right brain was fighting whether he called Race or not.

If he’ll call Race, perhaps Race will block him again. It’s visible that Race doesn’t want to talk to him. On the other hand, if he won’t call Race, what’s the use of buying a new sim?

“Atlas,” His mother appeared, arms crossed on her chest.

Stopped in front of his mother. “Ma,” he planted a kiss on his mother’s cheeks.

“Alam mo na ba ang mga target mo?” His mother asked.

He nodded once. “Yes.”

Smiling, his mother nodded at him. “Good.” She patted Atlas’s shoulder. “Ang siguraduhin mo ay mapatumba mo ang Servantes at ang Monteverde. Hadlang sila rito, anak. Ilang beses na tayong muntik nang mabuking dahil sa kanila.”

Atlas nodded again, and did not try to talk. His mother handed him a black envelope.

“What’s this?” He’s confused.

Smiling sweetly, his mother said. “You’ll find out, anak.” She kissed Atlas’s cheeks before she walked away, swaying her hips.

Atlas looked down on the envelope in his hand, he just shrugged his shoulders and he went to his room.

He tossed the envelope on the bed, and checked his phone. He’s not yet done debating with himself, Atlas just kept on staring at Race’s phone number.

After staring at it for a minute he finally stood up and made his decision. He bathed quickly, and wore simple clothes. Black pants, a sando, and he wore his favorite hoodie with a paw patrol print.

He grabbed his car keys, and his phone with him. Atlas went straight to the garage, and maneuvered his car.

In the middle of the road, he realized that he didn’t know where Race lived.

He didn’t know where Race was.

He didn’t know where to find Race. They are not even close to knowing Race’s location. They are not even friends. Race was still mad at him.

He did the only thing that comes in his mind.

He called James, the underground best tracker. “Hola! What do ’ya need?”

“I need you to find someone,”

“A baby girl?”

“No,”

James went silent, and later on he whistled.

Atlas can’t help but roll his eyes as if James can see him right now. He knew what his friend’s thinking.

“May atraso siya sa akin. Sinuntok niya ako at hindi ako nakaganti. Masakit kaya ’yon sa pride ko.” Half lie, half truth.

James laughed on the other line. “I didn’t say anything, amigo.”

“You were thinking of it.”

James laughed once more before he talked. “Give me his name,”

He was about to tell Race’s name when he realized that he didn’t know Grace’s full name. He didn’t even know Race’s surname, so how can James track Race?

Atlas parked his car in the club’s parking lot.

“Fuck,”

“What man? What happened?”

He squeezed his eyes shut. “I don’t know his whole name.” He said, defeated. Next time they’ll meet he’ll ask Race about his whole name. Atlas was sure about that.

“Any other way to track him?” He asked the guy.

“Number?”

His brow furrowed. “You mean his phone number?”

“Yeah. If you had his phone number then we can track him so easily.”

It’s tempting, but he’s hesitating to give Race’s number to James. Atlas tried all his best to get Race’s number, and he didn’t like someone to know Race’s number.

“You don’t have his phone number, don’t ya?”

He pouted. “I have,” he admitted, but deep inside he doesn’t want to admit. He just wants to see Race! Why is it hard to see that man?

For what? He thought

What he’s gonna do if he sees Race?

Probably, punch him. He’ll get his revenge.

“Oh…” The guy on the other line said. “Meron ka naman pala. Give me his phone number para masuntok mo na siya.”

He rolled his eyes. The truth is he really doesn’t want to give Race’s phone number, but he really wants to see Race. He doesn’t have a choice, but to give Race’s phone.

He can’t wait. He kept tapping his index finger on the steering wheel.

“Huwag mo siyang tawagan, ah,” he said in a serious tone.

The guy chuckled. “I can sense the possessiveness in your voice, Boss.”

“What are you thinking, James?! Just do your fucking works! Bakit ang tagal? Akala ko ba mabilis ’yang mga daliri mo?!” He grunted, impatient.

“Mabilis ’to kapag sa pussy ko ’to gagamitin—”

“Gross.” He cut James off before the guy finished speaking.

“I’ll remind you, Atlas na kulang ang numerong binigay mo,”

His brow furrowed deeper as he looked on his phone.

“Anong mali?!”

“Kulang ng isang numero!” James grunted.

He scratched the back of his neck, and he read Race’s number again.

“I’ll kill you myself, James if you have a plan to message him or call him,” he said while rolling down the window to let the air get inside.

“Kung hindi mo lang sinabi na maghihiganti ka sa lalaking ito ay iniisip kong bakla ka, Atlas.”

Atlas wanted to punch James if he was just close to him. “I’m not gay, James!”

“I know,” James can’t help but laugh. “Easy, Atlas. You don’t need to shout, I’m just asking—”

“You’re not asking, you’re stating.” He corrected James.

“Found him!” James shouted.

Atlas sat straight as he waited for James to say where he found Race.

“But you know man, I’ll still support you. We are friends. I still love you, man even if you are gay—”

“Fuck off! I am not a fucking gay!” He exclaimed, irritated.

“Yeah, yeah,” James whistled. “Nasa University siya malapit lang sa club kung saan ka pupunta. Specifically, he’s in the library.” James retorted. “Pero anong ginagawa niya rin?”

Atlas couldn’t help it but rolled his eyes. The answer is fucking obvious!

“Malamang nag-aaral! Good student ’yon, eh! Bobo ka ba, James?” he can’t help himself to snapped.

“Sabado ngayon, Atlas,”

“Walang day off ’yon. Laging nag-aaral ’yon!”

James laughed on the other line. Atlas knew that laugh, James was teasing him.

“Bakit alam mo? Bakit parang hindi paghihiganti ang dahilan kaya mo siya—”

“Nye, nye, nye. What ever,” he cut him off. He’s already irritated, if this is not his friend, he probably kill this man for teasing him too much. “Thank you sa paghahanap at huwag na huwag mo siyang tatawagan kundi makakatikim ka sa akin. Tatama diretso ang bala ng sniper ko sa bungo mo.” He warned James, but the man laughed at him.

“I have a gay friend now—”

“I’m not a gay, James!” He said, but the more his irritation grew, the more James teased him. Because of irritation, he hang-up the call, and didn’t waste a single time. He maneuvered his car, and drove fast.

Atlas arrived at the University that James told him. He saw students still coming to the University even though it’s the weekend.

Oh, right. They are college students. No weekend, no holidays.

He didn’t know where the library was, he hadn’t seen this University before, perhaps he never tried to wander around here.

He was about to enter the gate when the guard stopped him. Brow furrowed, he looked at the guard.

“What’s your problem? Papasok ako—”

“ID, Sir,”

He scoffed. He hasn’t brought his school id. On the other hand, he’s not a student from the University, even though he has his school id the guard won’t let him pass since there’s a policy that only students on this University can step inside.

He showed a friendly smiled at the guard. “Tandaan mo na lang ang napaka guwapo kong mukha, guard. Nag-iisa lang ito sa mundo kaya wala kang makikitang ganito ka guwapo. Matatandaan mo kaagad ako.” He said, so cocky.

Atlas is Atlas.

The guard brows furrowed deeper at what he said. He didn’t buy what Atlas said.

“Sorry, Sir pero bawal pumasok ang outsider,”

“Hindi ako outsider! Estudyante ako rito nakalimutan ko lang ang ID ko!” He reasoned out. He silently praying that the guard will let him pass, but he saw the guard narrowed his eyes on him.

“Umalis ka dito kung hindi mo gustong kaladkarin kita,”

He snorted.

“Huwag na! Dito na lang ako! Maghihintay na lang ako rito! Napaka higpit ninyo akala mo naman subrang guwapo ninyo. Hindi naman kayo gold.” Atlas threw a tantrum, and chose to sit in the waiting shed outside the gate.

Atlas pouted while the guard narrowed his eyes at him. He just ignored the guard, instead he made himself busy while watching the students buying street foods.

No wonder why he always saw Race walking passed outside the club since it’s only walking distance from here to the club. Atlas wondered if Race’s house is just around here.

He couldn’t count how many street foods he ate while waiting Race. But after another minute of waiting, he finally saw Race.

He smiled, and he walked towards Race.

While staring at Race he thought that Race was lonely. He doesn’t have a friend, he’s always alone.

“Hello, best friend!” He said, joyfully.

Race jerked, staring at him with a shocked face.

“Hey! Do you miss me, best friend?”

“Why are you here?” Race asked without looking at him. “I didn’t tell you where I study.” Race added.

Race started to walk away from him, but Atlas followed Race wherever he went.

“Ilang account ko na kaya ang binlock mo!”

“You deserved that,”

Atlas ran his fingers through his hair. He saw girls looking at him, and at Race. They are making the girls drooled

Race is wearing an eyeglass, and with his usual hoodie. His hair was fixed, and looks like he used gel.

“Pati phone number ko naka block na sa phone mo,”

“Oh, really? I didn’t notice.”

Atlas rolled his eyes because of Race’s response.

He sighed, and outstretched his hand. “Gimme your phone,” he demanded.

Race narrowed his eyes at him. “Then you’ll put your number in my phone? Again?”

“Yes! At kapag i-b-block mo pa ako sa phone mo ay sisipain ko na ’yang puwet mo,” he threat. “I’ll kick your ass, Race!”

Race didn’t look like he was afraid of Atlas’s empty threat. Atlas saw Race looked at the buko juice vendor

Atlas smiled, something went into his mind. “Do you want bj?” He asked, innocently.

Race almost choked him. “What the fuck, Atlas?! Shut your mouth!”

He glanced at Race, looking so innocent.

“What?! What did I say?!”

“Nasa public ka kaya iwas-iwasan mong magsabi ng malalaswang salita!”

Atlas’s jaw dropped because of the accusation. Looking at Race, the man really wants to kill him right now.

“Wala akong malaswang sinabi!” He hissed while looking around.

Everyone is looking at them, but he didn’t know if everyone heard them because they were whispering at each other.

“Bj!” Race hissed back, looking around then back to him. “You said bj! Anong hindi malas—”

He bursted laughed. Holding his stomach while he kept on laughing so hard. Students around them looked at him.

“What the fuck, Race?!” He’s laughing so hard. He thought that his heart might explode.

“What?!” Race asked him irritatedly. From the look on his face, Atlas knew that Race didn’t like the attention.

“Sabi ko bj! Buko Juice! Hindi blow—” He couldn’t finish his word, he laughed again. Tears were about to stream down. “Buko juice, Race! Buko Juice!” His stomach hurts.

Race looked away from him, and he suddenly distanced himself from Atlas as if saying that he didn’t know Atlas.

“Oh, c’mon! I just want to treat you!” Atlas said, still laughing. “Gusto mo ba ng…bj?” He couldn’t help but laugh again.

“Ang pink ng utak mo, Race,” Atlas calmed himself, and he’s catching for breath. “Ang pink naman ng utak mo! Akala ko talaga napaka inosente mo!”

He’s panting.

After a minute, Atlas finally breathes properly after a minute of laughing, but there’s still a hint of a smile on his face.

He wiped the tears on his eyes. “Gusto mo? Bj?” He asked Race, but Race ignited him.

Then Race’s eyes fixed on a girl who walked past him.

Atlas followed Race’s gaze. One brow raised he stared at Race, and when Race felt him staring, he furrowed his brow.

“What? Why are you staring at me?” Race asked, irritated. He looked away from the girl, and started walking away

“Gusto mo pala ’yung baby girl?” He pried, arching his eyebrow to Race.

This man has a crush on that girl who walked past them earlier. He didn’t know that Race has a crush on someone. Atlas thought that Race was a robot.

He followed Race, and matched his steps. “Anong pangalan ng baby girl na ’yon?” He asked.

“Why do you ask?”

“May gusto ka sa baby girl na ’yon?”

“Bakit ang dami mong tanong?” Race couldn’t hide the irritation on his face. “Ano naman kung gusto ko siya? She’s pretty, and smart but I don’t want to be his boyfriend. I just admire her.”

Atlas pouted, and raised his brow. “Bakit hindi mo siya ligawan? Sigurado akong may pag-asa ka sa baby girl na ’yon,”

“Hindi ko gustong magka girlfriend. Wala sa isip ko ’yan.” Race trailed off.

Atlas didn’t mind that he left his car outside the University, he could call someone to pick it up. He just had this feeling that he wanted to be with this man for a while.

“Tatanda kang binata, Race. I think the baby girl has a crush on you.”

“I don’t care,”

“But you admire her, right? So, why not? Why don’t you try?”

Race stopped, and faced him. “Why are you talking to me?” Race asked, settling his bag strap on his shoulder.

“Kasi best friend tayo?”

“You’re not even my friend,”

Atlas rolled his eyes. “Hindi tayo friend kasi best friend tayo! Close tayo!”

“Self-proclaimed best friend.” Race corrected him, and started walking away. But this time Atlas did not follow Race.

“I came here to say sorry,” he said.

Race stooped, and slowly turned his back to face him, wearing his brow furrowed.

“I am so sorry for last night. I didn’t mean that.” He continued. “I didn’t mean to force you to drink liquor. I just want—”

“I don’t care about that.” Race cut him off.

Scratching his head, Atlas took a heavy breath.

A moment of silence.

“Why do you hate them?” Race asked him finally.

Atlas raised his brows. “I just hate them, for no specific reason.” He admitted.

“It doesn’t mean you hate them, you’ll insult them.” Staring at him seriously, Race said with a firm voice.

“You can’t blame me, okay?! I hate them, what do you expect me to do? Watching them kissing in front of me?!” Atlas hissed. Chest heaving.

“At least you should let them be! You are insulting them! You should ignore them, and mind your own fucking business instead of insulting the couple!” Race hissed back.

They are both mad. Their eyes are burning with anger.

Race’s jaw clenched, while Atlas tried his best to calm himself.

“Bakit ganyan ka maka asta sa kanila ?” This time, Race spoke with his calmed voice, it’s like Race was also trying his best to calm down.

“You can’t expect someone to support their relationship! You can’t command someone to support them! Everyone is not like you, Race! Not everyone supports them! Not everyone is supporting lgbt!” He swallowed hard, he’s shouting because he’s frustrated. He’s explaining his side why he’s acting like that around lgbt.

“I am not like you, Race! You support them but not everybody is you! You’re just minding your own perception, and you didn’t think about the perceptions of the others! You support lgbt, then respect the people who contradict it! You know, I can support them just like what you want me to do. You want me to support them right? Is that what you want, Race? Then, I’ll try, okay? I’ll try to support them, but please don’t hate me because I said that to them. I am sorry because I didn’t think about your perception too, that night I thought you hated them. I am so sorry…but I’ll try to support them.”

His chest heaved. Jaw tightened as he stared at Race.

Race averted his eyes, jaw still clenching. His chest heaved, and both of them were catching their own breath.

“I didn’t say you’ll support them,” Race said. “I just want you to respect them because they are humans too.”

They stared at each other. No one talks for a moment. They stared until Atlas started laughing.

Atlas ran his fingers through his hair, while biting his lips. He didn’t know why he said he’ll support lgbt because he didn’t want Race to hate him. He doesn’t like it when Race ignoring him.

He wants Race attention.

“We are friends,” he said.

Race raised his brows, and said. “The last time I checked, I had no friends.”

Atlas grinned. “Well, you have now.”

CHAPTER 6

It’s wednesday, and Race didn’t know why Atlas is here—outside the campus.

Frowning, Race walked towards Atlas who’s talking to Bridgette.

When Atlas spotted him, he animatedly waved his hands. Race didn’t exchange the smile that Atlas gave him.

Instead, he asked. “Why are you here?”

“Nagkikita ’di ba ang mag best friend?” Atlas retorted, raising his one brow.

Race tried not to roll his eyes.

As far as Race remembered, he didn’t agree with anything. He didn’t agree to be Atlas’s friend.

Feeling close.

“Magkaibigan kayo?” Bridgette asked, smiling.

Atlas’s grin widened, and he faced Bridgette again. “Yes! We are super very close!” Atlas even showed his two fingers, showing how close they are.

“Oh, really?”

“Yes! Noong bata pa kaming dalawa, palagi kaming tabi matulog tapos alam mo bang umiihi ’yang si Race sa kama.”

Bridgette laughed.

Race snorted.

Lie. We are not even friends.

“What are you doing here?” He asked Atlas.

“Syempre para ayain kang gumala!”

Race furrowed. “May klase pa ako,” he said, and walked past Atlas.

“Bye, Bridgette! See you when I see you!” He heard Atlas shout.

He furrowed, but he did not glance back, to see what Atlas was doing. He doesn’t care if they are already friends. He doesn’t care at all.

“Hoy—”

“Bakit mo kinakausap si Bridgette?” He can’t help but asked.

He didn’t even know why he asked Atlas. He wanted to take it back but it’s too late.

Atlas grinned like a dog. “Nagseselos ka?”

What the fuck?

Atlas bursted laughed after he saw Race’s shocked face.

Why would he say that?

“Don’t worry, hindi ko aagawin sa’yo ang crush mo,” Atlas smiled at him, and patted his back.

He felt someone strange was happening in his system, but Race couldn’t explain what it was.

“Sa’yong sa’yo ang crush mo. Hindi ko siya gusto, iba ang type ko.” Atlas didn’t stopped patting his back.

Then here’s Race, he couldn’t even open his mouth to talk or to think of a retort. Everytime Atlas teased him, he also had a retort. But now? He’s completely speechless, also he’s confused why he feels strange in his system.

“Saan tayo gagala?” Atlas asked him.

Race shook all his thoughts. Why does he keep on wondering about the strange feeling inside him? It’s not important, perhaps he’s just hungry. “Gusto mo si Bridgette?” He asked back.

He wants to know. He didn’t know why but there’s part of him that wanted to know Atlas’s answer.

Instead, Atlas laughed at him.

Suddenly, he wanted Atlas’s arms to stay on his shoulder. He wanted to grab Atlas’s arm, he wanted Atlas arms around his shoulder. He loved that feeling when he felt Atlas callous arms around his shoulder.

Damn. He shook his head. He shook all his strange thoughts.

I’m crazy. He thought.

“Hindi ako ganid. Kaibigan kita kaya malamang hindi na ako puwedeng magkakagusto kay Bridgette,”

Race frowned, and faced Atlas. “Kapag hindi tayo magkaibigan ay magugustuhan mo siya?”

“Huh? Hindi, hindi ko naman kasi siya type. Ang talino na kasi, gusto ko ’yong bobo, ’yong hindi talaga subrang bobo na walang alam pero ’yong tama-tama lang ang katalinuhan.”

What the fuck? What kind of answer is that?!

“Matalino na kasi ako kaya hindi ko na kailangan ng matalinong girlfriend. Baka kasi kapag nag girlfriend ako ng matalino tapos matalino pa ako baka kapag nagkaanak kami ay baka masusubrahan pa ng anak ko ang katalinuhan ni Einstein o baka malalagpasan niya si Plato, si Socrates—”

Race left Atlas there alone, talking to himself with nonsense.

Oh, Race remembered Atlas always talking nonsense. Race wondered if he’s really a genius.

He’s cocky too.

“Hey! Bakit ko ako iniwan?” Atlas followed him, and rested his arm arm around Race’s shoulder.

They have the same height, but when it comes to bodybuilding, Atlas won. Atlas has a toned body, while he’s just average.

“Wala kang kuwentang kausap,” he retorted.

“Saan ang walang kwenta sa sinabi ko? I was telling the truth!”

Race ignored Atlas. He just continued walking until they arrived at the café near the school.

Race ordered matcha latte, and Atlas ordered Mocha. After they ordered, they found a table near the glass.

“Hindi naman sa nagyayabang ako pero matalino na kasi ako, bakit kailangan ko pa ng matalinong girlfriend?”

“Paano kung magkaka asawa ka nga ng matalino?” One brow raised, Race asked without glancing at the man in front of him.

He’s just watching the car outside.

“Katulad sa’yo?”

He startled.

Why does he keep staring at me? What’s his problem?

“Bakit ako nasali riyan?”

“Tinatanong ko lang kung katulad ba sa’yo na matalino?”

“Mahilig ka sa matcha?”

Race looked up at him. “Yes. Since I was a kid, I always loved matcha,” he paused. “What about you? Do you love mocha?”

“Yeah, so much!”

Race didn’t realize that he’s staring Atlas for a minute while he’s sipping on his matcha.

“Stop staring,” said Atlas, and he looked away.

Race jerked, and he looked away immediately. He felt his body burning, he can’t even look at Atlas right now.

What’s wrong with him? Why is he staring at Atlas? What’s on his mind?

Atlas cleared his throat, and said, “I… I started liking mocha when I was 15 years old. My father bought me a mocha latte since I did a good job that day, then after that I started liking mocha latte.”

“Oh…”

Damn, because of him everything felt awkward! He can’t look at Atlas direction anymore!

“What about you? When did you start liking matcha?”

Race felt Atlas’s gaze at him. He slowly looked at the man, but it seems like he’s the only one who felt awkward.

“My father bought me a matcha when I was ten years old, he said that it’s my mother’s favorite. After I tasted the matcha, I liked it immediately. No wonder why my mother loved matcha, it’s delicious.”

Race thought that talking eased the awkwardness around them. He can look at Atlas now without feeling awkward, but it’s just a split of seconds.

“You and your father are close?” Atlas suddenly asked, looking outside.

Which one? He wanted to ask, but he realized that Atlas didn’t know that he had two fathers. He doesn’t want Atlas to know about his parents, he’ll probably hate them.

“Mhmm, yes, we are,” he paused. “We really have a strong relationship.” Race added.

“Mhmm…”

Staring at Atlas’ face, suddenly Race wanted to know about his parents. Looking at Atlas’s face, it seems like Atlas, and his parents are not close.

“What about you—”

“Oh, I remembered! I have something to ask you,” Atlas smiled.

Okay, change of topic. Noted.

Race didn’t ask about Atlas’s parents. It’s obvious that Atlas doesn’t want to talk about his parents.

“What is it?”

“Why are you walking from your University to your home?”

Race sipped, and said, “I just want to stay healthy, that’s all,”

Atlas squinted his eyes.” Not buying that, I think you love to walk from here to there because you love to see a sexy girl whenever you walk past at the club!”

Rolling his eyes, Race put down his matcha. “Didn’t I tell you that I hate that place?”

“You hate the place, but the girls are not,” Atlas teased him. “You’re not a virgin, right?”

Shit.

Race coughed, and coughed.

What the fuck?! He’s so random?

“Do your mouth have a break?” He’s still coughing.

“Uh, I’m not a car though, so I don’t have a break,”

Race wanted to throw a punch on Atlas’s face.

He really can’t predict Atlas. He’s so fucking unpredictable! He looked so lonely earlier, then suddenly his mood changed?

“Gusto mo tubig? Kukuha ako,” Atlas didn’t wait for his reply. He stood up, and went to the counter to get a glass of water.

“It’s your fault,” Race glared, drinking the water.

“What? Why? I didn’t do—”

“Why did you ask me that kind of question?” He hissed, looking at his surroundings if there are someone listening to them

“Why? What’s wrong with my question?” Atlas couldn’t stop grinning like an idiot. “Why?” He leaned in to whisper, “am I right? You’re not a virgin anymore —”

“I’m a virgin! Why do you keep on asking me that? It’s ridiculous! I’m a virgin, okay? V-i-r-g-i-n, virgin! Stop asking stupid questions!” Race’s face was red as he hissed. He didn’t want someone to hear them talking about this kind of thing.

Atlas shrugged his shoulders, and he pouted as if disappointed. “I thought you were not a virgin anymore. You attract girls without doing anything, so I I thought —”

“Your thoughts were wrong! Don’t ask me a question like that again or I’ll punch you again like the last time.” Race threatened him.

Instead of feeling nervous, Atlas just smiled at him while staring at his eyes. Of course! Atlas loves to tease him! Atlas love to see his red face because of anger or perhaps because of awkwardness

He looked away, he couldn’t stare at Atlas’s eyes longer. It’s like those eyes are grabbing him into a deeper hole. But, why is he like this? Why can’t he look directly at Atlas’s eyes? Why is he afraid to look at those eyes? Why does this strange feeling inside him won’t stop?

“Kanina habang nag-uusap kami ni Bridgette ay ikaw palagi ang bukang bibig niya,”

They are now heading back to the University. Race can’t see Atlas’s eyes again. He’s not like this the other day, he can look at Atlas’s eyes for a minute. But, what happened today?

“We’ve been classmates since we’re in high school.”

“I think she likes you,”

He turned to look at the man beside him.

“She doesn’t like me. We’re just friend—”

“You like her, you told me that,” Atlas cut him off. “And I know she likes you too. May pag-asa ka sa kaniya.” Atlas seemed so serious today. What happened?

“Sabihin na natin na meron pero hindi ko naman siya liligawan.”

Race scanned his ID and he went in “I just like Bridgette because she’s cool pero wala sa utak ko ang—”

He suddenly stopped when he didn’t feel Atlas’s presence beside him. He looked back when he heard a commotion at the guard house.

Oh, he can’t pass since Atlas is not a student here.

“Guard, he’s my friend.” He said to the guard.

“Pero, Sir bawal po—”

“Don’t worry, guard. I’ll keep my eyes on him tsaka sa library lang naman kami.” He assured the guard.

The guard narrowed his eyes at Atlas for a moment before he let Atlas pass.

Atlas murmured something under his breath. Race grabbed Atlas on the hand.

“Saan tayo pupunta?”

“Library,”

“Anong gagawin mo doon?”

“Malamang para mag-aral. Ano pa ba ang ginagawa sa library?”

Atlas shrugged, and let Race grab him. “Sex? Some are just kissing in the corner, and some are making out.”

“Shut the fuck up.” Race glared at him.

He’s really unbelievable!

“Tama naman ako. Ilang beses na kaya akong nakakakita na nagm-make out sa library. They are not here for study, they here to make out because not all students come in library. Malamang kaya nila gusto sa library kasi tahimik at walang istorbo.”

“Bakit alam mo ’yan?” Race squinted his eyes.

“Because I also tried it,” Atlas hissed.

Race was not shocking anymore. He scanned his ID before they walked inside the library.

“You tried?” They continue talking silently.

“Yes,” Atlas followed him while he’s searching for a book.

“With whom?”

After he found the book, he went straight to the vacant table, and started reading the book.

“With the librarian—”

He snapped his head toward Atlas who’s shrugging his shoulders.

“What the fuck?!” Race hissed.

Atlas nodded his head, he’s proud that he did that thing with the librarian!

“Yes the fuck. We kissed, pero hanggang doon lang.”

Atlas puts his feet on the table, his arms are on the back of his head while watching Race reading a book.

A moment of silence.

“Boring talaga ng buhay mo,” Atlas spoke, breaking the silence.“Puro ka pag-aaral. Magsaya ka naman.”

“Hindi boring ang pag-aaral,” he said without looking at the man.. “Why are you here? Wala ka bang pasok?”

“Meron, pero hindi ako pumasok.” 

Race can’t help but raise his brows while he’s still reading the book. A moment later, he felt Atlas move on his chair.

Suddenly, he felt Atlas move beside him. He can’t concentrate on the book he’s reading. Everything went blurred.

Atlas scent filled his nose and he likes it.

“Hindi ko na kailangan mag-aral dahil matalino naman ako,”

Race chuckled, and looked at the man beside him.

He regretted what he’ve done. Their faces are so close! They almost kissed!

Both of them went stiff. They can’t move to their seats, both of them can’t look away. They’re just staring at each other.

They swallowed, and looked away in unison.

Jesus, he wanted to dig in his stomach since he felt the strange feeling inside again. He didn’t what is it, but the feeling gets wilder

“Kahit matalino ka na, may mga bagay ka pa ring dapat matutunan.” he whispered.

He stiffed on his seat. The awkwardness between them grew. They couldn’t look at each other because of the accident earlier.

Even Atlas who was jolly, and always teasing him can’t even look at him

“Mababaliw ka raw sa sobrang talino,”

Race cocks an eyebrow, eyes still on the book.

“Who said that?”

“Hindi ko alam kung sino nagsabi sa akin no’n. Good samaritan lang na ayaw akong mabaliw.” Atlas joked to eased the awkwardness between them.

What happened earlier is an accident! It was a wrong move! Race regretted turning his head towards Atlas.

He can’t focus on the book now, he can’t understand what he’s reading. It feels like a foreign language to him.

Race steady his breath, he thought he might lose oxygen.

He can’t explain this strange feeling right now. This is the first time he felt this. He thought like…he thought that—he’s alive.

He thought that he finally lived in this world.

What happened to him?

I need an explanation for this. He thought.

Atlas cleared his throat, and said, “I’ll go ahead,” he stood up. “I have something to…attend.”

Race looked up to watch Atlas.

“Uuwi na ako,” Atlas said it again.

Race only nodded, and he looked down on the book again, clearly averting Atlas’s gaze.

He wondered if there’s a book that can explain why he felt this way. Why is there a strange feeling in his system?

“Take care.”

Race didn’t hear Atlas talking because he’s busy debating with himself. But, someone cleared his throat to catch Race’s attention.

Race finally looks up, and catches Atlas’s staring at him.

“I’ll go ahead and I might not see you in a day or two.”

Race nodded his head. He understands Atlas clearly. What happened today was an accident, and perhaps Atlas wanted to stay away from him to ease the awkwardness. It’s so clear that Atlas was nervous after the accident.

It was an accident.

“It’s not like I don’t want to see you, but…I have something to work on. I have training to attend.” Atlas explained.

Race didn’t ask for an explanation, but it made him feel at ease.

“Take care,” he said again, he didn’t even try to ask about the training that Atlas was talking about.

“Okay. Bye…” Atlas turned his back, and walked away until Race couldn’t see his figure anymore.

Race sighed heavily as he leaned on his chair. He squeezed his eyes, and calmed himself.

He slowly strokes his chest because he feels strange there. It’s not the pain he used to feel. It’s a different kind of feeling. He can’t explain what it is.

He’s not hurting, he doesn’t feel the pain in his heart, but a feeling that made him feel better.

It’s strange, but he likes it.

CHAPTER 7

Atlas drove home, relieved to find that his siblings were not there.

He quickly entered his room and called his personal doctor.

Given by the Underground his personal doctor because there was an opportunity that shot Atlas. He didn’t think that his personal doctor would become his friend.

“I have a problem,” he began with his doctor.

“I’m a doctor, Atlas. I’m not running from people with problems.”

“Gano’n na nga!” he shouted as he threw himself onto the bed.

He squeezed his eyes tightly shut. Even now, he still felt the strange sensations in his chest — in his heart.

He was scared of his feelings because he had never felt them before. It was strange, like he was nervous but not really, and his heart was beating strongly too.

“You are my doctor and I need you here now!” he demanded.

He squeezed his eyes shut tightly.

He breathed, trying to calm his throbbing heart inside his ribcage.

“Okay, coming, boss.”

He rolled his eyes as he hung up the call.

While he waited for his doctor, the only thing he did was stare at the wall as if the answer to his questions was there.

The air con was on, but he was sweating and nervous.

This is not right!

He only felt it when they were almost inches away from Race, and that’s where he couldn’t explain what he was feeling.

This is Race’s fault! He poisoned me! He poisoned my fucking heart! Maybe he did some incantation?

Because he was annoyed at how long his doctor was, he stood up and went to his computer to research what he was feeling now.

But he was surprised by what he read.

A sickness he couldn’t accept. All the feelings he had were in the sickness he read.

He sat down on his bed, staring into space.

What he felt now had nothing to do with Race.

“Hey, boss,”

He snapped his head to his doctor.

“Rile,” Atlas sighed deeply. He was scared that he might really have an illness. “I have a heart disease.”

His doctor stared at him. He stared and looked away, with his fist in his mouth, trying to suppress a smile.

“What?! I’m fucking serious, Rile!” Atlas exploded. He stood up and approached Rile, who stopped himself from laughing. “I researched it! It’s on Google! I researched because this feeling I have, and all the feelings I have are symptoms of heart disease!”

Atlas suddenly fell silent and closed his eyes tightly. He took a deep breath and tried to calm himself down.

“No stress, Atlas. No stress allowed. You’ll get a heart attack if you stress out. Relax…” he whispered to himself.

“Relax…don’t stress out. Don’t shout, you’ll get a heart attack…” His chest heaved, his hand rising and falling with his deep breaths.

“What the fuck are you doing, Atlas?” Rile asked in amazement, almost laughing.

“I have a heart disease, Rile! I’m going to die! I’m going to die young and I won’t see my children!” he exclaimed, shaking Rile, then trying to calm his breath again.

He turned away from Rile and sat back down at the edge of his bed.

“Relax, Atlas. Don’t stress out, it’s not good for your heart,” he muttered to himself as he took deep breaths.

His doctor watched him, shaking his head at his boss’s behavior.

“I’m going to die. I’m going to die…noooo. This can’t be, I need to find a donor—”

“Boss, you don’t have heart disease—”

“But my heart, Rile, it’s beating so fast! It’s beating!” he insisted, trying to calm himself again. “Relax, Atlas. Breathe…don’t stress—”

“Boss, you’re alive, so your heart is beating.” Rile sat on the chair in front of the computer. He raised an eyebrow when he saw what Atlas had researched earlier about his condition.

“Rile, I have heart disease. I’m just feeling this now,” he said softly.

What happened earlier in the library with Race came into his mind, when their faces came close. He couldn’t look away from Race because he wanted to—he shook off all these thoughts.

“What exactly are you feeling?” Rile asked, raising an eyebrow.

Atlas closed his eyes tightly again and felt his own body. He recalled what he felt earlier when he and Race locked eyes, and they were just a few inches apart.

“I’m sweating, and my heart is beating fast and strong like I’m nervous,”

“It doesn’t mean you have heart disease.”

“I have a heart disease,” he hissed.

Rile brushed his brow with his thumb. “What else did you feel? Were you with someone?”

Rile’s last question caught Atlas’s attention.

He was with Race earlier, and when their eyes met, he felt this strange feeling in his heart and body.

“Do people generate electricity?” he asked, innocently.

“Generate electricity?” Rile cocked an eyebrow. “I’ve never heard of such a case.”

“I-I feel electricity in my body when…” His voice faded.

“Maybe you’re a worker for Meralco—”

He threw a death glare towards his doctor.

“I’m serious.”

“I’m serious, too, Atlas. Just tell me why you felt electricity in your body. Maybe I’ll do some research and experiments to answer your question.”

He took a deep breath.

If he didn’t have a heart disease, why was he feeling this in his body now? A feeling he couldn’t explain.

“If I’m not sick, then it’s all his fault! Race put these strange feelings in my body when we were too close!

Maybe he did some incantation or witchcraft. I don’t know what he did to me!

“What made you feel that?” Rile remained in his seat.

“It’s not what. It’s who.”

Rile’s jaw dropped, and he stared blankly at Atlas for a moment before shaking his head with a hint of a smile on his lips.

Rile turned to Atlas’s computer.

“What are you doing?” Atlas asked, frowning.

“Doing some research.”

He rolled his eyes. “I want you to check on me, asshole! Don’t just research! Check on me, run a test! Even when you told me that I don’t have a heart disease, let’s check it! Test me! Run some tests, fucking Rile!”

Atlas ran his fingers through his hair. He was damn worried about his health!

“You’re not sick, asshole—”

“We don’t know that!” Atlas exclaimed.

He wanted to kick Rile’s ass! He was fucking stressed about his damn condition!

It’s Race’s fault!

It’s Race’s fault!

He made me feel this way!

I’ll kick his ass tomorrow, that nerd!

Atlas told himself to calm down.

You’re not going to die. Relax, breathe and stay away from stress!

“Stop chanting like that!” Rile scolded while still in front of the computer, reading something.

“Chanting what?!”

Rile snapped his head toward Atlas, who was now mussing his hair.

“That fucking ‘you’re not gonna die. You’re not gonna die. Relax, relax…’ If you don’t stop murmuring that, I’ll kill you myself!”

“I’ll kill you first!” Atlas countered.

“Nye, nye, nye. I won’t tell you the reason why you feel that. I’ll let your disease kill you, fucker.”

He went still and just stared at his friend, who was also his personal doctor.

“Disease?! I am sick?! Really sick?!”

Oh, God, noooo!

I’m not gonna die!

I’m not gonna die!

I’m not gonna die!

“Yes, you have a disease, and this disease kills millions of people,”

Oh, God. Help me.

Not my heart.

Not my handsome face.

I’m not sick!

I don’t want them to bury my dick six feet under!

Geez! The horror!

“Why are you so pale?” Rile’s laugh echoed in the room.

He just stared into space, waiting for Rile to tell him what he found out in his research.

“I’m gonna die?” he asked dryly. “Like…like the millions of people who die because of that disease?”

“Hell, yeah.”

“Oh, shit. What…how can I prevent or cure this damn disease?”

“Dude, there’s no cure.”

He now became even paler.

Rile laughed again after seeing Atlas’s reaction, almost unable to breathe.

“Tell me…what’s this disease? Has it become an epidemic? You said—”

“It’s ‘In love disease,’” Rile cut him off.

He snapped his head at Rile, who was now back at the computer.

“What?! What the…fuck? In love?!”

He wanted to punch Rile, kill him, and kick his ass so fucking hard!

This man is really pissing him off!

“It’s not a disease!” he exploded, storming towards Rile and choking his friend.

“You made me worried for nothing! In love is not a disease, you motherfucker!” He hugged Rile’s neck and rocked it back and forth.

“H-Hey!”

“I’ll kill you! I’ll kill you for making me worried for myself! I thought I only had one year left to live! I thought they were gonna bury my cock six feet under because of my fucking illness! Asshole!”

“H-Hey!” Rile tried to catch his breath. “Y-You…a-are…in—in love!”

Everything spun. His head was spinning as he heard Rile.

His chest heaved, gasping for his own breath. He still wanted to kill Rile for making him worried and giving him false information.

“What? What do you mean?”

Rile fixed his clothes and took a deep breath.

“What you’re feeling right now is not because you’re sick or you have a heart disease,” Rile said, chest heaving too. “You like that person, okay? You said earlier it felt like electricity, and I asked you what made you feel that, and you said who. It means it’s a person who made you feel that way. Maybe your bodies touched, and because you like them or are attracted to them, you felt like there was electricity. It’s your body responding to what your mind tells it. In short, you like or love that person or you’re just starting to like that person.

You said earlier too that your heart throbbed faster and louder. Not all people who feel that have a heart disease; some have an in-love disease. It occurs when you’re near the person you love or like. Your heart won’t function normally because it beats faster when you’re nervous, happy, timid, or sad around that person. I said millions of people die due to this disease because some of them, their lovers die, or the person they love didn’t reciprocate their feelings, and that made their heart die because of a broken heart. What you’re feeling right now is normal; everyone feels the same. You have nothing to worry about.”

Atlas became wordless. He couldn’t find the words to respond. He became as stiff as a statue.

He tried to process Rile’s words.

All that.

The nervousness he felt when Race was around.

The happiness, the sadness, the excitement, he felt all this because of Race.

No.

It can’t be.

No. Not gonna happen.

“It’s not a problem, okay? Don’t worry about it; there’s nothing to worry about, okay? If you truly like or love that girl, then pursue her.”

His eyes narrowed. “That’s the problem,” he said, staring at the wall. “It’s not a girl.”

CHAPTER 8

Early Friday morning, Atlas was outside the campus where Race studied.

Yesterday, he hardly left his room because he still couldn’t accept what he heard from his personal doctor.

He kept telling himself that ‘he’s not in love,’ what he feels when he’s near Race is just nothing or maybe a symptom of heart disease.

He’d rather believe he has heart disease than be in love with Race.

Race is just his friend!

He doesn’t believe he’s in love; not everyone who gets nervous or whose heart beats fast when near someone is in love right away. Maybe there’s another reason?

There’s another reason why he feels that way whenever Race is around.

He’ll find that.

He’ll prove that he’s not fucking in love with Race. There’s no way he’s in love with Race!

“Hey,” a girl approached him, it’s Bridgette, Race’s crush.

Fucking crush.

“You’re Atlas, right?”

“Yes.” He retorted.

“You’re friends with Race, right?”

So many questions. Atlas tried not to roll his eyes.

The girl wasn’t doing anything to him, just asking questions, but he was annoyed with her, especially when she mentioned Race’s name.

“Best friend.” He corrected.

Bridgette smiled. She’s pretty, and Race told him that Bridgette is smart, which is why Race adores this girl.

But I’m smarter than her.

“Did you… see him? Or did you talk to him yesterday?”

Atlas couldn’t help but frown.

“Why?”

The girl arranged her book. “He didn’t go to class yesterday. I’m worried that he might not attend today either.”

Why are you worried? Don’t be worried. Who told you to worry about Race? Are you his girlfriend?

Atlas brushed away his thoughts.

“He didn’t go to class?” He repeated.

Bridgette nodded. “Yes. Although this isn’t the first time he’s been absent,”

“He often skips class?” Atlas asked, surprised.

Wow, a good student often skips class.

“He doesn’t always skip, just sometimes. Sometimes he’s absent for a week, and sometimes for three or four days.”

Now he’s worried.

I have the right to be worried about his well-being. I’m his best friend after all!

“He’s not the type to skip class. That’s why I’m worried about him, especially since our exams are near.”

He grimaced at the girl. She kept saying she was worried about Race, which annoyed him.

“Do you know where he lives?” He asked.

“No one knows, he’s not the type to share, and Race is very mysterious.”

He nodded in agreement. Bridgette was right; Race was indeed mysterious.

“He likes you,” he said, deliberately mentioning it to Bridgette to see her reaction, though he didn’t really want to say it because it annoyed him.

But Bridgette just smiled. “If he liked me, he would have courted me by now, but he hasn’t. So it’s hard to believe he likes me.”

Atlas nodded.

Smiling, Bridgette added, “But I like him. I really like Race. If he courts me, I’ll say yes.”

In your dreams.

He frowned, glaring at the girl.

No, not gonna happen, girl. Race won’t court you.

“You’re his friend, right? Do you know where he lives?” Bridgette asked him. “If you know, can you tell me? I’m worried he might be sick, which is why he’s absent.”

Atlas couldn’t hold back. He rolled his eyes and didn’t care that Bridgette saw him do it.

Even if I know where he lives, I won’t tell you.

Their staring contest was cut short when the bell rang.

“I have to go or I’ll be late,” Bridgette waved at him. “Bye!”

The problem is he doesn’t even know where Race is. Race never told him where he lived, nor did he know Race’s last name.

He pulled out his phone and called Race.

It didn’t even ring.

Atlas tried calling Race again, but it was out of coverage.

Atlas ran his fingers through his hair in frustration.

He didn’t know why Race turned off his fucking phone!

He was worried about what was happening to Race. Even though he had been absent only since yesterday, he couldn’t help but worry.

He angrily got into his car and drove off. Instead of going to his class, he headed straight to his hideout where he often trained.

Atlas’s hair was messy from repeatedly running his fingers through it. He always combed his hair with his fingers when he was angry or frustrated.

On his way to his hideout, he called Race again and again and again. But he still received nothing. No Race answering his call.

Guilt pangs his heart.

The thought entered his mind that Race might be mad at him, thinking he had been avoiding him because of what happened. It wasn’t impossible for Race to feel that way.

Maybe he’s angry or something.

He couldn’t help but ask himself.

Did Race feel the same when that happened the other day? Did Race’s heart also beat faster when their faces were close?

He quietly prayed that Race wasn’t mad at him. This was the first time he was worried that Race might ignore him for his entire life!

“He’s not mad,” he said. “He’s not mad at me because of what happened. He’s not mad at me because I didn’t show up yesterday.” He murmured.

When he entered his hideout, he saw three cars parked in the lot.

He went straight inside and immediately saw three guys playing billiards and drinking.

“What are you doing here?” He asked the three and directly drank a glass of alcohol from his friend.

“Hanging out,” Rile simply replied.

“My hideout is not for hanging out. Go to the mall,”

“Why do you seem to be in a bad mood, Atlas?” James nodded at him.

He stared at James for a moment. He was debating with himself whether to have Race tracked or not.

“Oh, don’t tell me you’re in love with me?” James laughed.

He rolled his eyes at his tracker and drank some more.

“You’re supposed to be at the university right now, right?” The other boy asked, the one who would be with him to observe the Russo mansion on the day the weapons were shipped.

“I don’t feel like it,”

“Do you need a personal psychiatrist? I can—”

He raised an eyebrow at James. “You’ll just drive me crazy.” He said, grabbing a gun and positioning himself at the shooting range.

“Everyone, did you know that Atlas likes someone?” Rile’s voice echoed.

Atlas aimed his gun.

“Yes, I know that. He even asked me to track that person because he couldn’t find them.” James laughed.

“Why am I always out of the loop? Why didn’t anyone tell me our friend is in love?”

Atlas rolled his eyes at what Sebastian said.

“I’m not in love, moron!” He insisted.

“His heart beats so fast! It’s like he’s having a heart attack, and he feels electrified whenever they’re close—”

He threw a death glare at Rile. “I’m not fucking in love, okay? It’s normal to feel this fucking way.” He aimed his gun again but didn’t shoot.

“You even commanded me to track that guy,”

“Guy?” Sebastian echoed.

“Yes, a guy.”

“I’m not gay.” He defended.

He shot the head.

He shot the heart.

The head again, and the face, and he shot the heart three times.

A few moments later, he fell to the floor because his three friends piled on him and messed up his hair.

“We’re so proud of you, fucking boss!” James said, almost in tears, on top of Atlas.

“What the hell! Get fucking off me!”

“After all the women you’ve slept with, you ended up with a guy. Damn, man! I’m so proud of you!” Sebastian also said, almost in tears.

“I don’t fucking like that boy! I’m not damn fucking in love—”

“Shh, just accept that you’re in love,” Rile hushed him. “You have our support, dude! This is a first in history!”

Rile messed up his hair and helped him stand. He shot a death glare at his friends; if looks could kill, these three smiling idiots would be dead by now.

“I’m.not.in.love.” Still glaring at his friends.

“Man, there’s no problem with being gay, okay? We’re not mad or disgusted.” Sebastian put an arm around him.

“I’m not in—”

“Where is he?” Rile asked, then snapped his head towards James, who was eating chips. “Dude, can you track him? I need to see him—”

“Don’t.” Atlas stopped and sat on the sofa, his hair and clothes all messy, looking like he was assaulted by three women.

“Why?” The three asked in unison.

“He’s mad, okay?”

“Why is he mad, dude?” Rile sat beside him.

“Because of what happened, okay? Our faces got close, and because I felt something weird, I left and abandoned him. Then I didn’t show up yesterday, and now he didn’t go to class. Maybe he thinks I’m mad or disgusted by what happened.”

“Did you like what happened between you two?” James whispered in his ear.

“The hell, yeah! I almost wanted to kiss—NO.” Atlas quickly realized. He glared sharply at James and pushed his face away.

“Maybe he doesn’t like you, that’s why he stayed away?” Sebastian shrugged his broad shoulders.

“No—”

Rile cut him off. “Maybe he wanted to stay away from you? Maybe he doesn’t like you?”

“The hell, no—”

“It’s not a happy ending, boss. The boy you like doesn’t even like you. He won’t reciprocate your love. He’ll stay away and you won’t see him again.“ There was sadness in James’ voice.

Atlas stood up. He couldn’t shake off his friends’ words from his mind. Their comments only made him more nervous.

But he shakes off all these thoughts.

He faced his friends, who were grinning at him.

“H-He stays away because he likes me! I am sure that he feels the same way I feel when our faces are so close! I can feel that he likes me but he hates to admit it. I saw it in his eyes. He stared at me like he really likes me! I am one hundred percent sure that Race likes me. I know he likes me, I am sure of that. He just can’t face me, that’s why he avoided me because I know his heart will palpitate when I am near or when he sees me. He likes me, and I am sure of that.”

After he said that, his chest heaved.

He doesn’t even know what he just said. He had forgotten what he was saying.

His three friends burst out laughing. They were holding their stomachs as they laughed so hard.

James was on the floor, laughing. He thought he wanted to pound his head on the floor.

Rile rolled on the floor, repeatedly tapping the cement as he laughed without stopping.

Sebastian had fallen off the sofa, tears streaming from his eyes as he laughed.

Atlas, on the other hand, was so, so, so, so confused. He didn’t know why his friends were laughing at him. It seemed like his friends were going to die from laughing.

“D-Did y-you…” James couldn’t finish what he was saying because he laughed again. “R-Record it? What the fuck—” He laughed again and repeatedly tapped the floor.

They’re all crazy.

They need medication. They need assistance. I need to bring them to a mental hospital.

“Fuck! I-I forgot!” Rile cursed and laughed again.

Annoyed, Atlas started kicking his friends.

“Dude! You—you’re so f-fucking…confident!” Sebastian rolled on the floor, hands on his stomach.

“Y-You’re so soooo confident that he likes you toooo!”

He made a face. So, that’s the reason why they were laughing so hard.

“I know he likes me. He’s into me, I know that. I can see it in his eyes.” He said and turned his back on his friends to return to the shooting range.

Tomorrow he’ll find Race. If he doesn’t see Race tomorrow, he’ll have James track him.

Gunshots echoed in the hideout, and in the background, his friends were still on the floor laughing.

Annoyed with his crazy friends, he took out his cellphone and called Race again, but there was still no answer.

Damn, you made me worried sick, Race.

CHAPTER 9

“Are you sure you’re okay?” his father asked him, worried.

“You know, we won’t force you to go to school if you still—”

“Dad, I’m fine,” he said reassuringly. “Papa told me that I’m fine.” Race glanced at his Papa Hades.

Isaiah gave Hades a dirty look.

Hades just shrugged his shoulders. “Don’t worry about our son. He’s been resting for four days. And besides, he doesn’t feel anything now.”

He mouthed to his Papa, ‘Thank you, Pa.’

And Hades mouthed back, ‘No worries, son.’

In the end, Isaiah sighed in defeat. He narrowed his eyes toward his son and said, “Just take care, okay? If you feel anything, call me.”

“Yeah, sure. I will, Dad.”

Hades clapped his hands together. “Alright! Let’s discuss today about the upcoming event at Russo’s Mansion?”

Race frowned and paused from his eating. With a frown, he looked at his parents.

“Event? What kind of event?”

“It’s a party, son,” Isaiah said, “and we are invited.”

Race didn’t talk, he waited for his father to continue because he could sense there was a ‘but’ in his father’s sentence.

“But, you won’t come with us.”

“When?” he asked again and resumed eating.

“29th of July,” his Papa responded to his Daddy Isaiah. “It’s this week.”

“It’s on Saturday, right?” Race poked the veggies.

The two men nodded in unison.

“I don’t want you to come with us, son. It’s dangerous for you, okay?”

He turned to Isaiah. “How?”

Isaiah stared at him as if processing an answer.

“It’s crowded, Race—”

“But I wanna come with you.” He cut Isaiah off.

Isaiah’s mouth hung open and he turned to Hades, who was busy eating. Isaiah poked him to grab Hades’ attention.

“What?” Hades hissed, and Race could see that his father was stealing a glance at him.

Race stopped eating and crossed his arms against his chest.

Race saw Isaiah widen his eyes at Hades as if they were having a conversation with their eyes.

After that, Hades cleared his throat and turned to him.

He stared at his Papa Hades, silently praying that he would be allowed to join the party at the Russo’s this Friday night.

“He can come with us, babe—”

“What?! No—”

“I don’t want to cage him here, okay? Our son is not a prisoner, let him explore, okay? He’s not our little Race anymore.”

He suppressed a smile.

God. Thanks, Papa. I really love you.

He thinks that Hades can read his mind because Hades winked at him.

“I didn’t say that my son is a prisoner of my own house, Hades.”

Hades pouted. “You didn’t call me babe.”

Oh, shit. Here they go again.

“You know, Hades, I am just worried about my son, okay? I don’t want to risk it. It’s all about his condition—”

“Our son, babe. Our,” Hades corrected Isaiah.

Race cleared his throat to cut the tension between his two dads. He didn’t worry when they fought because they would always make up quickly.

“Dad,” he faced his father. “I wanna come with you and Papa Hades. I won’t drink, I won’t smoke, and I won’t engage in a dangerous situation,” he said, promising.

He was really bored at home, especially after missing school for two days, but it felt like a month to him. He was bored at home, always hanging out in his room.

He wanted to go out, see more of the Philippines, and, most of all, see his parents interact with businessmen like them.

He already saw his parents talking to some tycoons, and he was really impressed with what he saw.

He was amazed when Isaiah took him to a gala and he saw how serious his father was in front of the businessmen. Except for his other father, Hades, who sometimes smiled but, like Isaiah, was mostly serious when talking.

The first time he saw his parents like that, he couldn’t take his eyes off them because he was so amazed.

He wanted to be like them—a successful businessman in the world.

“I know you won’t,” Isaiah sighed again in defeat. “Fine. You can come with us, but we won’t stay long. We’ll go home right away.”

He smiled and nodded, and Hades mussed his hair.

“Pick a beautiful tux, son. There will be many girls there, daughters of businessmen. You might find your soulmate there,” Hades grinned widely and winked at him.

Race just shook his head and continued eating, and after that, his Papa drove him to school.

“I am really serious about what I said at home.”

Race rolled his eyes. “Dad, I don’t need to impress the girls,” he said.

“What? Why? You need to look handsome in front of them! Who knows, Cupid might hit you, and you might find your true love there.”

Race laughed and shook his head. He thought his papa was a crazy and in-love bastard who believed in Cupid’s arrow.

“I don’t need to impress the girls, Pa. I am already handsome, and I can make the girls drool without dressing up too much.”

Hades looked at him in disbelief, mouth agape.

“Son, you’re being cocky,” a smile appeared on Hades’ lips. “You’re learning, huh.”

Race just shook his head and opened the door.

He learned that from the best—from Atlas.

“Are you going to walk after school or do you need your driver to drive you home?” Hades asked before he walked away.

“I’ll walk.”

Hades stared at him for a moment before nodding.

“I am worried for you too, son.”

Race stared at his father—the man who accepted his Father Isaiah and him.

He nodded. “I’m fine…nothing to worry about.”

Hades nodded and waved his hands. “Take care, send my regards to Bridgette.” Hades winked.

“Ugh, Pa. Bridge is my classmate, okay?”

“Yeah, yeah,” he rocked his head. “But you two are perfect for each other.”

Race couldn’t help but roll his eyes. His father was being a Cupid again. Earlier, he was pushing a different girl on him, and now it was Bridge.

“I can’t remember how many girls you paired with me and said we were perfect for each other, but nothing happened.”

“Cupid is not perfect.”

“Yeah.”

Hades grinned at him, and lastly, he drove back to their company.

Race entered the university, but in the middle of his walk through the hallway, he saw Atlas talking to some girls.

Race frowned in confusion.

Why is he here?

He hadn’t seen Atlas for several days; the last time he saw Atlas was when he accompanied him to the library, and that awkward moment happened.

I’m not surprised if he stays away from me after that.

Race gripped his bag strap tightly and turned around to take a different route, avoiding Atlas.

He started walking, but someone tapped his shoulder. He almost lost his breath when he saw Atlas.

“Where are you going?” Atlas asked, frowning, still holding his shoulder.

Okay. This is weird. His heart is acting weird again.

“To my room, why?” he replied disinterestedly.

Race’s eyes dropped to the ID Atlas was wearing. He raised an eyebrow when he realized it was their university’s ID.

He looked up at Atlas. “You transferred?”

Atlas grinned widely at him. “Yes! I transferred, best friend!” Atlas slung an arm around him.

God, why does this guy feel so close?

Atlas smiled so wide. He wanted to touch it because he loved how Atlas smiled at him, as if it wasn’t real.

“Why?” he asked, shrugging off Atlas’s arm.

“I wanted to see you.”

Silence.

They both stared at each other. Both silent and processing what Atlas said.

Atlas blinked at him as if he didn’t know what he said and regretted saying it.

They were both silent for a moment.

And seconds later, Race’s heart palpitated. He quickly averted his gaze and rubbed his chest.

What was that?

“I-I m-mean…” Atlas spoke, trying to find words. “I mean—best friend tayo kaya…gusto kitang makita.” Atlas gulped, and his eyes couldn’t relax. “’Di ba gano’n naman ang mag-best friend? G-Gustong makita ang isa’t isa?”

Okay. He’ll buy that explanation.

Race licked his lower lip before gazing at Atlas again, who couldn’t meet his eyes. It was like Atlas felt embarrassed after saying that.

“Bakit ka pala dito dumaan?” Tanong ni Atlas sa kaniya, halatang iniiwasan ang topic kanina.

Shrugging, Race said, “You’re waiting for me to walk there,” he cocked a brow.

“The hell? Sino ka para hintayin?” Atlas asked, rolling his eyes.

“You’re waiting for me, hmm I see. And you saw me, right? And you’re waiting for me to approach you.” He concluded.

Atlas frowned even deeper at him. He stared for a few minutes as if he couldn’t believe what he was saying.

“Ano naman ngayon kung hinihintay nga kita?” Atlas said seriously, surprising him.

He just wanted to provoke Atlas and didn’t expect this response—Atlas actually admitted it.

“Umabsent ka noong Huwebes at Biyernes kaya hindi kita nakita. Kasalanan ko bang namiss kita?”

The fuck.

He’s stunned to speak. Race tried to find words, he opened his mouth but closed it again when he couldn’t find a response.

He couldn’t talk as if his tongue got cut off his mouth.

Smiling, Atlas put an arm around him. “I missed you, best friend!”

Race rolled his eyes and removed Atlas’s arm from his shoulder.

“Stay away from me.”

He meant that. He really wanted Atlas to stay away from him because his body was acting weird whenever Atlas was around.

Just like today, his heart palpitated as if his heart wanted to get out from his ribcage.

He didn’t know why his body was acting weird. He only felt this when Atlas was near.

“You want me to stay away from you?” Atlas asked with a furrowed brow as he stepped closer to him. “Did you mean that?”

“Yes,” he answered without breathing. “I want you to stay away from me.”

He stepped back, but Atlas grabbed his hand.

His heart palpitated again and again. His heart was throbbing inside his ear. He could only hear his heart beating so fast and Atlas’s warm hands on him.

He quickly pulled his hand away from Atlas.

Atlas’s eyes narrowed at him before Atlas looked at his clenched hand.

“You feel it too,” Atlas said, still looking at Race’s hand.

Race frowned. “Feel what?”

He clenched and unclenched his hands.

Atlas’s eyes returned to his, staring intensely. There was no smile on Atlas’s lips.

“You feel electricity when I touch you.”

What?

Does it mean Atlas feels electricity whenever he touches me?

“No,” he said, looking at his own hand. “I didn’t feel what you felt.”

But his heart palpitates, and his body goes warm and acts weird whenever their skin touches.

“What?” Atlas asked, incredulous. “You didn’t feel it?”

He shook his head, and a moment later, Atlas held his hand and stared at him intently.

“This, you didn’t feel anything?”

Race blinked at him. He stared at their hands.

That strange feeling in his body was back because they were holding hands now.

He felt like his heart was in his ears due to its loud thudding.

“What do you feel?” Atlas really stared at him, waiting for him to answer. “Tell me what you feel, Race. Can you feel it too? Your heart throbs in your ribcage, the electricity, and all the weird feelings you just feel whenever we touch.”

Yes.

He said in his mind.

He felt all that. And only Atlas made him feel this way. This is strange, and he’s not dumb. He knows this kind of feeling. He’s not dumb, he knows what this is.

I feel it all, but I won’t tell you.

“No.” He answered, pretending he didn’t care.

Atlas frowned and looked down at their clasped hands before slowly letting go.

He saw Atlas gulp and shake his head.

“So, it’s just one-sided?” Atlas asked more to himself.

Race didn’t answer nor speak. He’s afraid that he might take back what he said after he saw the pain in Atlas’s eyes.

Race averted his gaze. “I have to go, I still have class,” he said, but he didn’t leave. Even though Atlas nodded, he still didn’t leave because he was waiting for him to speak.

“You’re not coming with me?” Atlas finally asked.

Atlas shook his head and pointed in the other direction.

“My first class is over there,” Atlas said with a lackluster voice.

Race almost wanted to take back what he said earlier because he didn’t want Atlas to treat him like this. He didn’t like the quiet Atlas because he was used to him being cheerful and always teasing him. But he didn’t want to admit his feelings because he wasn’t sure if his feelings were real. He also didn’t want Atlas to know how he felt because he might feel differently towards him.

At last, Race nodded. “Okay,” a pause. “See you later, Atlas.” And he walked away with so many questions in his mind.

---

At least it’s not ‘see you never, Atlas’.

Atlas said to himself.

He stared after Race until he couldn’t see him anymore.

He sighed and rubbed his chest because he felt a hole there.

Race said ‘see you later, Atlas’ and not ‘see you never, Atlas’.

It’s good news, Race said he’ll see me later, which means he wants to see me, which means he’s into me, which means he’s interested in me.

I knew it, but Race is afraid to admit it. Race hates to admit it.

Atlas shrugged his broad shoulders and walked in the opposite direction.

I know he’s lying. Race felt it too! I knew it! When I touched his hands, he pulled away as if his hand was on fire, as if his hand burned from my touch.

He said to himself.

He entered his first class and sat at the very back of the room, still thinking about what happened earlier and pondering the events.

He didn’t expect to transfer to Race’s school; he just wanted to see him because he missed him.

I missed provoking him and seeing his face turn scarlet when he’s angry and provoked, that’s all.

Even as his class started, he couldn’t get Race out of his mind, especially how soft his hand was when he held it.

Under his desk, he stared at his own hands, remembering when he and Race held hands.

He admitted that he still wanted to hold Race’s hand for a long time. He loved holding Race’s hand; he was addicted to it and how it felt when their hands touched and their fingers intertwined.

He shook his head, trying to shake Race out of his mind.

Race was like a ghost haunting his mind.

He prayed that Race felt the same way too. He hoped that Race couldn’t concentrate in the middle of the professor’s discussion because he was thinking of him.

He prayed that Race was thinking of him because he was thinking of Race right now.

When his second class ended, he left the room and took his cellphone from his pants pocket.

He read Sebastian’s text.

Sebastian: We have training today.

Sebastian: Don’t be late.

Sebastian: I know you want to see your crush but focus on our mission too.

Sebastian: You’re thinking of him right now. I know it and you want to be with him for a long time but come here now. We’re having a meeting.

Sebastian: It’s an urgent meeting. Be there.

Atlas rolled his eyes after reading Sebastian’s texts.

Atlas: I can’t.

He was about to put his cellphone back in his pocket when it rang again.

Fast replier. He thought.

Sebastian: They are expecting you here, moron!

Atlas: I still have class.

Sebastian: Ditch it.

Atlas: I can’t. I’m a good student now and good students don’t ditch their classes.

Sebastian’s reply was instantaneous.

Sebastian: Don’t fuck with me, dickhead! I know you transferred universities because you wanted to see him all day because you like him.

Sebastian: Come here now or I’ll make James track your crush…

Atlas’s brow furrowed at what he read, and at the ellipses at the end, which meant there was more to come.

Atlas: I’ll kill you before you do that.

Atlas: And he’s not my crush.

Sebastian’s reply was instantaneous.

Sebastian: Then attend the meeting and the training.

Sebastian: Come here now. The transaction is near and we need to focus. You can flirt with him after we’re done here. He’s all yours.

Atlas rolled his eyes at the phone and shoved it back into his pants pocket.

His body told him to see Race.

He hadn’t left his spot when Sebastian texted him again.

Sebastian: Don’t you dare think you won’t come today. I’ll kill you myself if you don’t come, and when they find out why you didn’t come, they’ll kill your crush because they’ll think he’s a hindrance. So come here before they find out, Atlas. This is not a threat. It’s a warning for you.

Almost all the blood rushed to his head when he read it. His grip tightened around his cellphone. His hand trembled as he stared hard at his phone.

His eyes were bloodshot and he wanted to pull the trigger towards Sebastian.

The veins in his arms were showing because of his tight grip on his cellphone.

He calmed himself. His chest heaved as he breathed slowly and squeezed his eyes tightly.

He debated with himself whether to go or not, but Sebastian was right. When The Underground finds out that he’s busy with someone, even if Race is not his lover, they’ll kill Race because they’ll think Race is Atlas’s hindrance to his work and slowing down the mission.

He’s not shocked anymore that most people who work at The Underground don’t have lovers because The Underground kills anyone who is a hindrance. The Underground slaughters the people who slow down the mission. Most people working at The Underground are afraid to commit to love. They are terrified because The Underground might kill the people they love.

Some don’t have time for love. Others focus on their work and forget about love because even if they fall in love, The Underground will kill them if they find out you have a weakness and someone is hindering your work.

If you are working at The Underground, you are committing to it. They vow to work at The Underground.

But Race is not a hindrance for Atlas. He will never be. And even if Race is not his lover, he’ll protect the man he first trusted aside from his friends.

Even his three friends took a long time before he fully trusted them, but with Race, he trusted him after just a few days.

Atlas quickly typed on his phone.

Atlas: Hey, best friend! I won’t be able to have lunch with you today. I have something to attend to. I have training today.

Race’s reply was instantaneous.

Race: You told me that the other time that you have training to attend. What kind of training?

A smile appeared on his lips.

Atlas: You are asking. Are you interested in me now?

He really loved provoking Race. He could imagine Race’s face turning scarlet because he was mad.

But minutes later, he didn’t receive a reply from Race.

He frowned and typed another message.

Atlas: Just kidding.

Atlas: I can’t tell you what my training is. It’s not that I can’t tell you, but you don’t need to know.

Why was he explaining?

He didn’t know either.

He just found himself typing another message.

Atlas: Tomorrow, let’s have lunch together.

Atlas: Best friends lunch together, right?

Atlas: Tomorrow, okay? Don’t forget, or I’ll kick your ass!

He stared at his messages and realized how many he had sent straight through.

He sighed.

His phone rang, and he received a message. His heart didn’t jump with joy because it wasn’t from Race, but from Sebastian.

Sebastian: We’ll start any minute now. Be here NOW. Your family is here, and they are looking for you.

Sebastian: NOW.

He sighed and shoved his phone back into his pocket and drove to The Underground.

CHAPTER 10

“It’s good to see you here,” Sebastian acknowledged him as he sat beside Sebastian.

“I’m not in the mood, Sebastian. Don’t provoke me or I’ll kill you,” Atlas said without looking at the man beside him.

Shrugging, Sebastian said, “I am just protecting you and your crush—”

“He’s not my crush,” Atlas muttered irritably.

Sebastian just grinned. “Hmm, I want to see him, maybe I’ll like him too.”

Atlas quickly turned to his friend, who was grinning beside him.

Atlas knew that Sebastian liked men. He even had a boyfriend once, but they broke up after a month.

“Not him,” Atlas retorted, his voice hard as a rock.

“You said you don’t like him, so I’ll make my move. I’ll visit him tomorrow to see him and—”

“Shut up.”

Atlas cocked his gun and slammed it onto the table. He looked at Sebastian, who seemed amused despite Atlas’s serious threat.

Sebastian raised both hands. “Easy,” he laughed. “He’s not yours, right? You don’t like him either, so maybe—”

A gunshot filled the room.

The conference room went silent. Everyone turned to the wall with a bullet hole, then looked at Atlas, who was glaring at his friend.

But Sebastian didn’t seem scared at all. He even laughed more.

“Don’t you dare, Sebastian,” Atlas threatened, still glaring at his friend.

Sebastian leaned in to whisper, “He’s all yours, friend. I’m not that kind of a friend.”

Atlas just stared at his friend, his eyes sharp as if he could kill him with just a look.

His chest heaved as he breathed.

He didn’t know why he was so angry now, why his blood was boiling because of Sebastian’s words.

Before, he never got this mad when Sebastian tried to take his girls. He would just let it go, but now, he felt his vision darkening, barely hearing anything.

All he saw was black, and he wanted to shoot Sebastian in the head, but he managed to restrain himself.

A part of him didn’t like other people mentioning Race. He didn’t even like seeing Race with someone else. It made him jealous to see Race with other friends besides him.

“What happened?”

Atlas’s mother entered the room, followed by his father, who was talking to a man. Out of his three siblings, only Amber and August were present.

“Good noon, tita, tito,” Sebastian greeted Atlas’s parents. “It’s nice to see you here, Amber,” and then he nodded at August.

“Why was there a gunshot?” Amber asked, her eyes stopping at the wall with a bullet hole. “Did someone get mad? Went wild?”

“Someone just got annoyed.”

Atlas glared at Sebastian, but he ignored him.

“Did you do that, Atlas?” His brother sat beside him.

“No.” He lied.

But he wasn’t a good liar. No one believed him.

His mother sighed and sat across from him.

James, their tracker, entered the room, walked seriously to the front, and presented an image.

“This is the blueprint of Russo Mansion,” he started. Everyone went silent, their attention on him.

“Last night, I hacked their security system and found out that they have hundreds of cameras around the mansion.” He slid to the next page.

The picture showed a long pathway.

“As you can see, it’s just a normal pathway,” James said. “But it’s not.”

He zoomed in on the picture, focusing on the wall of the pathway. Everyone looked closely for something out of place.

Then Atlas saw a small lever. He raised an eyebrow.

“There’s a secret passage,” he said.

They all glanced at him.

“You’re right, boss,” James said, hiding a smile. “There’s a secret passage here. Only Russo knows about it, but it didn’t escape me.”

“It’s not surprising if Russo has a secret passage; it’s a mansion after all. There might be more,” August interjected.

“Actually, there are only three secret passages in the Russo mansion.”

August frowned, but Atlas showed no reaction and just listened to his tracker.

James switched the picture and showed the ballroom. “One from the ballroom,” James pointed to a large circle in the center. “This is one of the secret passages. If a normal person sees this, they’ll think it’s just part of the design, but no. This is one of their secret passages.”

“What’s inside?” His sister asked. “Treasure?”

“Sadly, I don’t know what’s inside.”

“Where’s the last secret passage?” His father asked this time.

“In the master bedroom,” James replied, showing another picture. “This room belonged to the founder of Russo who died ten years ago. No one dares to open this bedroom again to show respect to the founder. They said the founder didn’t like people entering his room, so even his sons and grandchildren haven’t opened it since his death.”

Everyone fell silent, intrigued by the founder’s bedroom.

“It’s enigmatic. Does that mean there’s something inside that bedroom?” Sebastian spoke up.

“We expect that,” James switched back to the blueprint of the Russo mansion. “But maybe nothing’s in there.”

“Maybe there is,” his mother said.

Everyone looked at her, serious and focused on the blueprint.

After a moment, she nodded at James. He typed on his laptop and switched to a new picture.

Atlas frowned as he stared at the image. He knew it was a treasure.

“What’s that?” One of the council members asked.

“The Underground wants that,” his mother smiled and walked to the front. “The Underground said whoever gets this treasure first will be rewarded. And if we succeed, our Court will become strong because of the reward from the Underground. The other courts think we are weak, but let’s prove them wrong. If we get this reward, we will be among the respected courts. We can expand and strengthen our Court. A bigger Court means more wealth.”

“What prize is that?” Another council member asked.

His mother gave a sweet smile to the council.

Atlas sensed that the reward was significant, not just any prize. His mother’s smile told him it was substantial.

She walked behind his father and placed her hands on his shoulders.

“My husband,” she started. Everyone paid attention to her next words, even Atlas. “The Underground will give my husband a position. Not only will he be a part of our Court, but he will also join the Underground councils, making us more powerful than the other courts.”

Everyone went silent except for his two siblings, who didn’t hide their amazement.

“Damn,” his brother whispered. “We won’t just be the Underground’s errand boys during transactions, but we can also command other courts.”

“We can do anything,” his sister added with a grin.

“It’s not as easy as you think,” Atlas said, looking at his siblings. He looked at each of them before speaking. “We can’t do any of that if the rest of the Underground doesn’t agree.”

“Atlas is right,” his mother said, returning to the front. “The Underground councils must agree with our plans before we can act. But that doesn’t mean we can’t do anything.”

His mother grinned again.

Sebastian and Atlas exchanged glances. Sebastian’s silence indicated he was observing.

“If we get that treasure from Russo and give it to the Underground, they promised to immediately give my husband a position. We will be strong enough to topple other courts and do what we want without the Underground knowing! We can blackmail them and do as we please! Just because we’re in the Underground doesn’t mean we can’t do what we want if the councils disagree. We can do whatever we want behind their backs!”

Everyone smiled.

Except for him and Sebastian.

It’s illegal. That’s what they’re doing. That’s what his parents are doing.

His family never did anything legal. Everything was illegal, and they used violence to get their way. Anyone who opposed his parents was killed immediately.

That’s what his parents taught him.

“How can we be sure the treasure the Underground wants is in the Russo mansion?” Sebastian asked this time.

His mother turned to Sebastian.

“I had James investigate the founder of Russo, and we found out that he was the last to hide that treasure.”

Atlas glanced at his tracker, and James nodded at him.

“So this Saturday, we won’t just have one mission, but two.”

His father stood up and stood beside his wife.

“There’s a change in our plan,” his father said, looking at each of them. “Artemis will handle the transaction while August and Amber join us at the Russo party to get the treasure. Atlas and Sebastian will be assigned to eliminate the people—the hindrances to this mission. As I said, if you see anyone suspicious who might hinder our plan, take them out immediately. James will be our eyes. He’ll guide us inside the mansion, and the rest will deal with the Underground to prevent them from discovering our other transaction.”

Kill the people. Kill all the hindrances.

Even though it wasn’t his first time killing someone—an innocent person—he still felt guilty. There was always doubt within him. He hesitated.

And he knew Sebastian felt the same way. He knew why Sebastian stayed despite not liking what was happening and what he was doing.

“Atlas,”

Everyone had left except him and his mother.

He faced her and looked at her. “What?”

His mother crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. She leaned against the table.

“I know what you’ve done,” she started.

“What have I done?”

His mother shook her head. “You transferred schools.”

He froze but wasn’t surprised his mother knew. He just feared she would find out why.

“Why? Is there something wrong? Is it wrong to transfer schools?” He asked.

His mother was silent, her gaze intense as if reading his mind. He tried to remain calm, not showing his mother his nervousness.

“No, son,” his mother smiled at him. She approached him and kissed him on the cheek. “There’s nothing wrong with it…” she whispered and caressed his cheek.

He composed himself, trying not to flinch or blink.

“Anyways, I want to know if you already know who you’re gonna kill this Saturday.”

He couldn’t answer.

“I gave the envelope to you.”

Oh, that one. He forgot where he put it. He never dared to open it.

“The names of the people you’re going to kill are in there. I hate them all, so kill them. They’re going to the Russo mansion this Saturday because they’re invited too, as they’re highly regarded and well-known business tycoons. I want you to kill them because they’re a hindrance.”

His mother didn’t wait for him to speak and directly left the conference room.

He clenched his fingers into a fist.

Chest heaving because of heavy breaths.

“Yo, are you okay?”

James and Sebastian appeared.

“She knows,” he said in a low tone.

James frowned. “Know what?”

“She knows that I transferred to another school, and I know she knows the reason why I’m there. For sure, she’ll investigate until she finds out who the reason is.”

“And she’ll kill that person because she’ll think that person is just a hindrance,“ Sebastian added.

“There’s no happy ending when you’re a member of your mother’s Court and the Underground,” James added.

“But you really like him?”

Atlas shot a dirty look at Sebastian, who had a mocking smile.

“No.”

“Then give him to me if—”

“Screw you.” Atlas cocked his gun. “He’s not a possession for anyone to claim, Sebastian.”

“Look at that,” James said, shaking his head. “I really thought you were as straight as a ruler, but then I remembered there’s a type of ruler that’s flexible, the one that bends?”

The two laughed as if what James said was funny.

Atlas tsked. “I’m not the only one here,” he said and glanced at Sebastian, who was still laughing but stopped because of what Atlas said.

“Damn. I’ve been straight for a long time.”

“But you bent because of him,” James guffawed.

Sebastian hit him on the head. “If you turn gay, I’ll date you.”

“Idiot! You’re disgusting, Sebastian!”

Atlas sighed and just shook his head. “I’ll have to go,” he said, saying goodbye to his two friends.

“Where are you going?” James asked.

He checked his wristwatch. “Going back to school. I still have class.”

He left the conference room with the two following him like tails.

“Do you still have class, or do you want to go back for something else?”

Atlas rolled his eyes at what James said.

“James,” he called his friend but with a threatening tone in his voice.

“I said, you still have class to go back to.” He retracted his statement.

“If you don’t want him, just give him to me because—ouch!” A slipper landed on Sebastian’s face.

“Shut up.” Atlas said and left.

Before he could leave, he heard James asking, “Did it hurt?”

“No, James. It didn’t hurt. Should we try throwing this slipper at your face?”

“No way. It hurts.”

Atlas shook his head, took out his black card, and threw it in the direction of his friends.

“Buy all the things you want,” he shouted and got into his car to return to school.

When he returned to school, he immediately texted Race and noticed that it was already 1:20 pm!

“Shit!”

Atlas: where are you?

Atlas: I’m here.

Atlas: Let’s have lunch together.

Atlas: Did you already eat?

He sent texts to Race one after another, but he didn’t receive a single reply.

Race might have eaten already because he was late! He had told Race earlier that they would eat together and that he would kick Race’s butt if they didn’t eat together, but now, he was the one who didn’t follow through on his word.

He walked quickly to the cafeteria. He was hoping Race was there.

He checked his cellphone, but there was still no reply from Race.

Atlas: where are you? I’m here at the Cafeteria.

He shoved his cellphone back in his pocket.

He scanned the entire area. There were still quite a few students inside, probably because others had no classes.

His eyes stopped in the middle and saw Race with Bridgette, both laughing as if they were talking about something funny.

Atlas immediately felt bad. He didn’t waste any time. He marched over to Race.

“I was just gone for a while, and you’re already flirting,” he said.

The two looked up at him. Race was still smiling because he had just laughed.

But he couldn’t appreciate Race’s smile because he was annoyed that someone else was the reason for his smile.

After a moment, Race stood up, and so did Bridgette.

He looked at Race, confused. “Are you leaving? Are you done eating?” he asked Race.

He ignored the ache in his heart and the heaviness he felt.

“Did you eat together?” he asked again.

“I’ll go now, Race,” Bridgette said, smiling as she bid farewell.

Race smiled back, and his heart squeezed tight at what he saw.

He returned his gaze to Race.

“Are you leaving? Are you done eating?” he asked again.

Race looked at him in confusion. “I haven’t eaten yet.”

Now Atlas was the one confused. He thought Race had finished eating and was about to leave.

“W-Why? I thought you were done eating.”

“You texted me earlier that we would have lunch together. I haven’t eaten yet because I was waiting for you,” Race answered and turned to go to the counter.

Atlas was left standing, stunned.

He thinks his heart will explode just because of what Race did.

“Race,” he called.

Race stopped and looked back at him. “What?”

He stared and stared and stared.

His heart was pounding and pounding, pounding, pounding, pounding…

It didn’t stop. His heart beat so fast.

Sebastian’s words about liking Race but denying it flashed in his mind, but his heart was screaming otherwise.

This is weird, weird, weird, weird. Soooo weird. He thinks he likes Race.

He likes Race.

He likes Race.

And he thinks that he might confess his feelings today, where they’re standing, in the middle of the crowd.

“Nothing,” he said at last.

He can’t do it.

CHAPTER 11

“What’s that?” Atlas asked Race.

Race looked at Atlas briefly before returning to writing in his small notebook.

“What are you doing?” Atlas asked again, sitting beside him.

Race scooted away a bit. These past few days, he didn’t want their skin to touch because it would bring back that strange feeling in his body.

Even when Atlas wasn’t doing anything, that strange feeling was still there.

“Nothing,” he replied and closed his notebook.

“What’s that? Is that your confession for your crush?” Atlas asked, raising an eyebrow.

Race shook his head. “No,” he said.

“Then why are you smiling?”

“I’m not smiling—”

“You were smiling! Even earlier, from afar, you were already smiling at your notebook.” Atlas raised an eyebrow and pouted. “What did you write that made you smile like that?”

“I said, ‘it’s nothing’.”

Atlas sneered. “I don’t believe you. I really feel like you’re hiding something from your best friend.”

Race rolled his eyes.

Race didn’t get to speak as Atlas cut him off. “Don’t tell me you’re going to deny our friendship again?”

Instead of arguing with what Atlas said, Race remained silent.

“Whose confession is that for? Why do you need to write it down? To memorize it?” Atlas asked one after another.

Annoyed, Race turned to Atlas. “It’s not a confession, okay.”

Atlas squinted his eyes. He didn’t believe what Race said. “Then why were you smiling?”

“It’s not—”

“Just admit it; you’re going to confess to me! I know you like me but you’re just shy!” Race was stunned and looked at Atlas, who had put an arm around him. “There’s nothing wrong with liking another guy! I can’t blame you if you like me because I’m handsome.”

The fuck.

Race went silent, and his jaw dropped!

Because of what Atlas said, he could hardly open his mouth.

This man is unbelievable!

“Oh, wordless?” Atlas cocked his eyebrow. “I already know, I can feel it. Don’t be shy to confess to me, so hurry up and read whatever that—”

“Asshole!” Race hit Atlas with his small notebook. “It’s not a confession, dickhead! It’s my bucket list!”

Atlas winced as he took the notebook from Race and read its contents.

After a while, Atlas asked, “Paris?” A pause. “You want to go to Paris?”

“Yeah, why?”

“I’ll come with you.”

Race frowned and took his notebook back from Atlas, putting it in his bag.

“I want to go alone.”

“I’m coming with you; best friends don’t separate—”

Race threw Atlas a death glare. “What do you mean don’t? Have you ever seen friends clinging to each other like caterpillars?”

And Atlas actually thought about it, “Yes?” Race raised his brow and waited. “We’ll be the first friends to stick together like caterpillars.”

Race couldn’t help but roll his eyes out of annoyance with Atlas.

He stood up and left the guy there, but because Atlas was persistent, he didn’t leave him alone.

“When are you going to Paris?”

Without looking at the guy behind him, he said, “I don’t know. I haven’t set a date, but I won’t even tell you if I ever decide when I’m going.”

He could feel Atlas pouting beside him. The urge to look at the guy right behind him, it’s really a temptation to look at this handsome guy.

“Well, I’ll stick to you so that if you ever leave, I can come along.”

His head will really ache whenever he talks to Atlas.

“Stay away from me for a bit.”

“I don’t want to.”

“One meter distancing, please,” he said.

“No—”

“Hey, Race! Hello, Atlas!”

Both of them stopped and looked at the girl approaching.

Race turned to Atlas to say he wouldn’t allow him to come, but he saw the guy raising an eyebrow at Bridgette.

“Hey, Bridge!” Race greeted back.

“Where are you going?” she asked.

“Why would we tell you?” Atlas asked coldly.

“Ah,” Bridgette laughed awkwardly. “Because… I want to come if you’re going to the library.”

“N—”

“Yes, you can come with us, Bridge. We’re going there too,” Race said, turning to Atlas, who was pouting. “Right, Atlas?”

Atlas just looked at him with an I-don’t-have-even-a-choice look.

“Thank you, Race!” Bridgette said, smiling as she got in between him and Atlas.

Race raised an eyebrow and glanced at Atlas, whose face was almost unrecognizable from irritation.

Race just shrugged, thinking it was okay that Bridgette was in the middle because he really didn’t want to be close to Atlas.

He doesn’t like the feeling. It’s really strange for him to feel that way. It’s like he doesn’t want to stay away because he likes Atlas’s company.

Atlas is really a magnet.

Once you two are together, it’s almost as if you never want to be apart from him. There’s a personality trait of Atlas that he really likes, and because of that personality, he still hasn’t distanced himself from Atlas.

Atlas is really a social butterfly. Even though he’s new to the university, almost all the students already know him.

That is why he wanted to stay away from this man because once he gets attached, he doesn’t know if he can get out anymore. And of course, he doesn’t like the feeling of not wanting to stay away from Atlas, like he wants this guy always next to him because he admitted that he feels safe when Atlas is near.

“Where are you going to eat later, Atlas?”

Race snapped back to reality, not even realizing that they were near the library.

“In the cafeteria,” Atlas answered simply.

“Can I join you and Race, is that okay?”

Atlas put his hands on his hips. “I didn’t really want to, but since you’re insistent, fine.”

“Great! I haven’t had a meal with you guys for a long time,” Bridgette smiled but only looked at Atlas.

Atlas just smirked and entered first, followed by Bridgette, and he was last.

They logged their names in the book first before looking for an empty table and chairs.

“What projects do you have, Atlas?”

Atlas pulled out a chewing gum from his pocket and chewed it. He sat down uninterestedly in front of him and leaned back on the chair.

“A lot,” Atlas replied simply without looking at Bridgette.

“Oh, perfect! I don’t have much to do now, do you want me to do your assignments for you?”

Race coughed at what he heard, quickly grabbing his mineral water and drinking it.

He didn’t see it coming.

He already felt that Bridgette liked Atlas, but he thought it was low-key. What he didn’t expect was how Bridgette would make her move.

“I’m not dumb,” Atlas replied. “I was always in the top rank in elementary, then I was valedictorian in high school, and I received awards with high honors and special awards. Do you want me to list all my achievements? It would take a while because there are quite a few.”

The fuck, so cocky Atlas!

Bridgette didn’t know whether to smile or not, she was really hesitant. The girl was embarrassed by what Atlas was saying.

Under the table, Race kicked Atlas. Atlas turned to him, still chewing the gum, and raised an eyebrow.

“I’m just going to get a book, I’ll leave you guys here for now,” Atlas stood up straight, not even waiting for him to respond.

He watched Atlas disappear and then looked at Bridgette.

“Don’t mind him,” he said.

Bridgette smiled, “It’s okay. I’m not hurt, I actually liked him more because I found out he had so many achievements in elementary and high school.”

Race raised an eyebrow.

Bridgette touched his hand on the desk. She looked into his eyes and said, “I know you like me, Atlas told me about it. But, I am really sorry if I can’t reciprocate your love…” Bridgette sighed. “I am in love with someone else, Race, and that is Atlas. I love his personality, the way he shows himself to anyone, he doesn’t like to pretend, he really says what’s on his mind, and that’s the reason why I fell for your best friend.”

Race looked at the girl in confusion, about to speak but Bridgette moved closer to him and touched his cheek.

He cringed.

“I know it hurts you, but this is the reality. I know you love me, Race, and it hurts you. I’ve told you face-to-face who I like, and I know it’s painful for you because I know you have feelings for me, but I don’t want to give you false hope that you have a chance with me,” she sighed and slowly shook her head. “I don’t want to hurt you and I also don’t want you to feel that I have feelings for you. My love is for Atlas only… I’m sorry…”

He cringed more.

He wanted to vomit all the food he ate.

What the fuck is she saying?!

“I’ll have to go, I need to find Atlas so we can talk,” Bridgette stood up but before she left, she turned back to him and touched his cheek again. “I hope you’ll find the person that is destined for you and it’s not me, Race… I am destined for someone else and that is Atlas.” And she walked away.

Race drank some water.

“The fuck?” he murmured.

Cringe showed all over his face. He couldn’t control his expression.

His expression showed that he wanted to vomit.

He didn’t see it coming! He didn’t even know that Bridgette would say that to him!

Yes, he admitted that he admired her—BEFORE.

What he didn’t know was that she was assuming things.

He was really surprised by what Bridgette said to his face earlier. He didn’t expect it, really. He was so shocked after what he heard! Race couldn’t even talk.

Race just massaged his forehead and stood up to get a book as well.

He went to the first bookshelf, browsing through the books there, searching for the one he needed but feeling like there was something else he wanted to find aside from the book.

He moved to another bookshelf but frowned when he couldn’t find what he was looking for.

Race knows where to find the book he needs. He’s always in the library and already knows where the books are placed.

His forehead furrowed deeper as he failed to find the book, causing various thoughts to flood his mind.

He was about to move to another bookshelf but ran into Bridgette, who was frowning as she reached for a book.

“Where is he?” was the first question he asked.

Bridgette turned to him but remained frowning.

“There, he’s being flirted with,” she said.

“Flirted?” He raised an eyebrow.

“Those girls from another department came here just to flirt with Atlas!” She turned her back on him and murmured under her breath, “Atlas doesn’t even know them, but those flirts are acting so close!”

“Shh,” he hissed.

Race shook his head and approached Bridgette.

“Where is he?”

“At the very end of the library,” she pointed.

Race nodded and left, but soon returned to Bridgette, smiling at her.

“Want to come with me?” he asked politely.

Bridgette blinked at him, staring for a moment before sighing.

“Race, I told you…I can’t reciprocate your lo—”

“I don’t like you, okay? I just want you to come with me.”

Bridgette grimaced. “You don’t like me?”

Race pouted and shook his head slowly.

“I-I thought…” She was shocked. “You…”

“No, I don’t. Whoever told you that I like you…it’s a lie, okay? You are my friend, Bridgette, and I don’t get involved with friends.”

Bridgette was left speechless. Earlier, it was Race who was almost at a loss for words because of what Bridgette said. Now, it was Bridgette who was nearly speechless.

“I-I really thought…” She blushed. She couldn’t look at Race’s eyes. “Oh, God! It’s so embarrassing!”

“I’ll ask you again, will you come with me?” He asked, raising one eyebrow.

“I don’t know if I can look at your eyes anymore because of what I said earlier! It’s really the most embarrassing moment of my life! Super assuming, level 100!”

Race pouted and just pulled Bridgette towards the end of the library where Atlas was. Bridgette, who was behind him, just went along with his pull, still murmuring to herself.

Race pulled out a chair for Bridgette. “Sit here.”

Shocked, Bridgette stared at him. She stared and stared and stared.

“I-I thought you don’t like me, but why did you—”

He just smiled and walked away to find a book.

Actually, he was used to pulling out a chair for any woman he was with. He always did this for his grandmother, always pulling out her chair before he sat.

After finding the book he was looking for, he returned to the table where Bridgette was, who was staring at something. Bridgette’s stare was so intense that it seemed like she was about to burn the person she was looking at.

Race turned to see what Bridgette was looking at, and his eyebrow cocked at what he saw.

After seeing what he saw, he didn’t feel his own body, feeling soulless.

“Who’s that girl?” He asked when he sat beside Bridgette.

He couldn’t take his eyes off Atlas and the girl he didn’t know. Atlas even had his arm around the girl’s shoulder, and they seemed very happy, laughing at their jokes.

Fortunately, Atlas and the girl had their backs to them, so they couldn’t see how serious Race’s face was.

His smile fell.

“I don’t know her either,” Bridgette answered irritably. “If I had any right to Atlas, I would’ve dragged that girl away earlier!” She hissed.

He caressed his stomach because he felt something inside it, like his organs were knotted.

“Just let them be,” he said and looked away.

He focused his attention on his book instead of the two flirting in front of them.

“The girl’s really flirty,” Bridgette murmured.

Slowly, he looked up, and their eyes met.

He was startled by their sudden eye contact, so he turned to Bridgette.

“Are you okay?” He asked, not knowing why he asked her that.

“No,” she replied. “It’s really hard to be jealous when you have no right to him because you can’t do what you want to the girls flirting with him.”

Race sighed.

He stared at Bridgette for a moment.

He agreed that Bridgette is a beautiful lady with her own kind of beauty. Bridgette is smart too; usually, boys in his batch like her.

“Don’t focus on them,” he said and fixed a strand of Bridgette’s hair. “If you don’t want to be hurt, then look away,” he added.

He returned his gaze to his book and forced himself to focus on what he was reading, even though his mind was preoccupied with the guy flirting in front of him.

He wanted to look at Atlas; he wanted to know what they were doing, but he was afraid Atlas might catch him checking on him.

“Oh, god,” he heard Bridgette hiss.

He looked at her, confused.

“You—” Bridgette covered her mouth. “Y-You—You like me?!” She exclaimed.

“What?!” He hissed back, still confused.

“Y-You fixed my hair…and—and—”

“And what?”

Bridgette blinked and looked away. Her face was now red.

“You like me because you fixed my hair.”

God, this girl. Very assuming, level 100.

“Don’t be too assuming; it will hurt you, Bridge,” he retorted.

“But you act like you like me—”

“I don’t.”

“But—”

“You are my friend, and I don’t get involved with friends.” He winked at her and continued reading the book.

But still, he couldn’t focus. He couldn’t read the text properly. He kept reading one paragraph repeatedly, but he still couldn’t understand it because his mind was elsewhere.

“It seems like you two are talking about something interesting.”

He jerked, startled, and looked to his side.

Atlas raised an eyebrow when their eyes met. Race didn’t back down and raised his eyebrow at Atlas, leaning back in his chair as if challenging Atlas.

“Where’s…your girl?” Someone interrupted. They broke their staring contest and looked at the girl beside Race.

Atlas leaned back in his chair but didn’t pay attention to Bridgette, instead turning to Race.

“What were you talking about? You seemed to be having fun,” he said again.

Race raised an eyebrow and tilted his head to the side. “Why do you care?”

“Coz, I am your best friend and I need to know your secrets—”

“It’s not a secret.”

“Then, spill the tea!” Atlas hissed and relaxed his back.

Race sighed and turned to Bridgette, who was just staring at Atlas.

She’s quiet and just staring at Atlas.

“Are you okay?” Race asked.

Bridgette turned to him and nodded. “You two seem so very close—”

“No. We’re not.” Race quickly denied. “We’re not close.”

“Don’t deny it,” Atlas whispered. “Your best friend is hurt.” He placed a hand on his chest.

Race shook his head and stood up. He placed a hand on Bridgette’s shoulder and smiled at her.

“I’ll return the book. Will you wait for me or go now?”

Bridgette pouted and stood up. She gathered her things before responding.

“I still have somewhere to go, so I’ll leave first.”

Race nodded. “Okay. Bye, Bridge, see you tomorrow.” He waved and turned to return the book he had taken.

After returning the book, he went back to the table to get his things, but he found Atlas and Bridgette talking there.

He stopped for a moment to watch the two talking. Bridgette’s face was red as she spoke, while Atlas was intensely staring at her, fully attentive to what she was saying.

“Jesus…” he whispered and rubbed his chest before continuing to walk.

From a distance, he saw Bridgette leaving—perhaps their conversation was over.

Atlas turned to him, so he straightened up and kept his face expressionless. He just walked straight without breaking their eye contact.

He couldn’t help but ask, “What were you talking about?”

He picked up his things and started walking, with Atlas matching his pace.

“Secret.”

Race almost rolled his eyes. “What were you doing with Bridgette while I was away?”

“Just gathering data,” Atlas simply said.

When they left the library, Race faced Atlas, who was adjusting a strap of his bag on one shoulder.

“Data gathering?”

“Yes.”

“What’s that?”

Atlas smiled and stepped closer. “Who do you like?” He raised an eyebrow.

“What?!” He jerked back.

“I just gathered this data from Bridgette, and she said you don’t like her. That means you like someone.” Atlas wiggled his eyebrows, and the corner of his lips rose.

“I don’t like anyone—”

“Come on, admit to me who you like. We’re best friends, so I need to know everything about you, including who you like, in case we like the same person.”

“Are you crazy?” Race hissed and turned his back.

“I think I am.”

He heard Atlas say.

“You really are,” Race murmured.

“At least I didn’t deny my feelings,” Atlas added. Race paused for a moment to look back at Atlas. Atlas also stopped behind him, twirling a key on his finger.

Atlas grinned. “What?”

Race just glared at Atlas and continued walking.

Atlas’ words lingered in his mind. He felt there was something more behind them. Race felt Atlas wanted to say something else. He didn’t know what it was. He didn’t know what Atlas really wanted to say.

Then Atlas started singing, “London BRIDGE is falling down, falling down. London BRIDGE is falling down, falling down.”

Race face-palmed at Atlas’ song.

He knew it. Race knew that Atlas didn’t like Bridgette; he could feel and see it through Atlas’ actions. Atlas’ face was unreadable whenever Bridgette approached. What he didn’t understand was why Atlas was annoyed with Bridgette.

“Hey, Race,” Atlas called him.

He stopped and looked at Atlas.

“Let’s meet on Sunday,” Atlas added.

“Sunday?”

“Oh, yeah. I have something to do on Saturday, so I won’t be available. Let’s hang out on Sunday instead.”

“What are you doing on Saturday?”

Race stared at Atlas when he scratched his head. “Ah, family outing.”

Race nodded slowly. “I’m not available on Saturday either; I have a party to attend.”

Atlas raised his brow. “With who?”

“My parents,” he simply said and walked away.

With his back turned, Race waved to Atlas, who was still behind him.

“Meet me on Sunday!” Race said while waving his hand.

“See you on Sunday, Race!”

CHAPTER 12

“Where’s a good place to visit?” Atlas asked Sebastian, and his doctor and tracker heard it through his earpiece.

“Why are you asking me now?” Sebastian asked with a furrowed brow as he reassembled the weapons they were going to use later.

“I’m just asking, and can you just answer me?” he hissed as he threw himself on the sofa.

“He’s taking that guy out, dude,” he heard Rile say on the other line.

“Oh… shit! We’re coming too!” James chimed in.

“Shut up, both of you!” Atlas shouted. He turned back to Sebastian, who was checking his sniper.

“Sebastian, suggest a place!”

Sebastian glanced at him and then back at his sniper. “I suggest that you should bring him to the Motel and book for 5 days—”

Sebastian stopped talking when he heard the gun being cocked.

Sebastian glanced at Atlas again.

“Hey, why are you pointing your gun at me?”

“I’m not pointing my gun at you, friend,” Atlas simply said.

“Yeah, you’re not pointing your gun at me, friend,” Sebastian mocked him sarcastically and rolled his eyes.

Atlas faked his shock when he looked at his gun—pointing at Sebastian. “Oh, my bad,” he said, lowering the gun. “I didn’t mean to do it, my friend.” And then he smiled sweetly.

“Geez,” he heard James whisper in the earpiece.

Atlas crossed his legs and folded his arms while staring into space.

“He’s not like that,” he whispered, enough for Sebastian to hear. “He doesn’t like that, Sebastian.” A pause. “He will hate me if I bring him there.”

“Okay, I’m sorry for saying it.”

After a while—a minute of silence—James spoke, “But, for sure he will hate you if he finds out what you did—he’ll find out soon that you killed hundreds of people.”

Atlas froze to death. His eyes wide and didn’t blink after he heard what James said.

He didn’t think about this. He never thought about this. It never crossed his mind that one day Race would find out what he’s doing—that he kills people.

Fear and anxiety enveloped his body. He felt colder in his seat, more nervous about Race finding out than their mission later.

“He’ll hate you for sure, or maybe he won’t see you again and he’ll push you away if he finds out,” James added.

His fear intensified because of what his tracker said. He couldn’t think clearly, and he didn’t know what to do if Race knew what he’s doing.

He’ll hate me. He’ll push me away from him. He won’t see me again. He’ll hate me all his life.

Atlas’s chest heaved as he inhaled deeply while in deep thought.

No. I won’t let that happen. I won’t let him find out what I’m doing.

This is a secret.

“Shut up, James,” Rile said.

“What?! I didn’t do anything—”

“Our friend is overthinking now. Idiot.”

He didn’t pay attention at all. His mind was full of what-ifs. He was worried about Race.

“Race will surely get angry when he finds out, worse, he’ll stay away from me and push me away.”

He imagined Race fuming mad at him, his eyes full of hatred and fury.

No. He can’t stomach it. He can’t stomach Race’s rage.

“There’s no secret that remains undisclosed,” he heard James’s voice again.

“If I were near you, James, I would have punched you already,” Rile hissed.

“I am just telling the truth! I’m even giving our friend a warning,” Atlas could feel James pouting. “Our friend fell in love with that guy, and he told us that this guy is different. I expect him to get mad when he finds out the truth. I’m just warning Atlas so he can think about it now. So when it happens, he’ll know what to do and expect.”

Atlas rubbed his chest before he stood up. “I won’t tell him the truth—”

“You sure?” Sebastian asked, concerned.

Atlas stared directly at his friend and said, “I’ll tell him when the time is right. We are just getting to know each other. I don’t want to ruin our friendship and our bond because of this. And if he finds out everything, then I will accept the consequences. But for now, I won’t tell him. As long as I can hide it from him, then it’ll remain a secret.”

The strange feeling is still there; it remains in his heart—his body. The strange feeling feels like something heavy in his chest that makes it hard to breathe. He can feel guilt too. He is second-guessing whether he should tell him or not.

“His life is in danger.”

Atlas squeezed his eyes shut when James spoke again.

James is really the one worsening his thoughts. What James says keeps replaying in his mind.

“He’s part of your life, and when your family finds out about your affection for this guy, they’ll kill him and make him suffer because they think that he’s a—”

“Enough,” Atlas cut him off.

He can’t take it anymore. His chest becomes heavier. He can’t breathe properly; it’s like something is stopping him from breathing.

“I already know about this. You don’t have to remind me because I already know, James.”

Someone patted his shoulder. “Focus on our mission today, Atlas. Stop spacing out because this mission is important,” Sebastian said seriously before handing his sniper to Atlas. “You can worry about that once we’re done with the mission.”

Atlas accepted the sniper and stared at it intently.

“Any minute now, our mission will start,” Sebastian said as he put on his black gear that covered his face up to his mouth. “I need you to focus and not think about anything else. Stop overthinking about your love problems. You are on a mission. Your emotions have no place here, Atlas. For a while, stop thinking about that guy.”

Atlas took his gear and put it on. Then he wore his black gloves and left their hideout to go to their positions.

Their mission started as soon as they set up their sniper. They were far from the Russo mansion, but from their hiding place, they could see the mansion clearly and who entered and exited.

They are all set; his mother had just called to tell them to enter the Russo mansion, and the ship is also nearby.

But the heaviness in his chest didn’t fade away; it remained in his chest. He kept rubbing it and kept popping his knuckles and neck. He can’t relax.

He was nervous and scared. He didn’t know if it was because of their conversation earlier or the things James said.

“For God’s sake, Atlas, please focus,” Sebastian said seriously without glancing his way.

Atlas peered through his sniper scope and looked at what was happening in the Russo mansion. After studying the place, he leaned against the wall and closed his eyes tightly.

He kept rubbing his chest. Round, round, round, round and round as if it could ease what he felt.

“What happened to you?” Sebastian approached him and sat beside him.

They both took off their earpieces.

“I’m worried and I feel terrified for no reason,” he confessed.

“Stop thinking about what James said, for now, I need you to focus because this is important—”

“I know…” But he feels like something isn’t right.

“Do you have the envelope that your mom gave you?” Sebastian asked.

“I left it in the room,” he simply replied and rubbed his chest again.

“Do you know who we’re taking down today?” Sebastian cocked his brow.

“Yes.” He lied.

He will kill anyone who blocks and ruins his family’s plan. He knows when people are acting weird, and if he sees one, he’ll kill them right away.

“Who are we supposed to kill?” He asked.

Sebastian frowned. “I thought you already knew?”

He just shrugged and waited for the answer. He was too tired to mind and review the envelope, and he was busy with something else.

“Monteverde and Servantes,” Sebastian replied before returning to his sniper and lying down.

“Who are they?”

Without glancing at Atlas, Sebastian said, “I expected that you didn’t review the envelope or maybe didn’t even try to open it.”

Atlas shrugged again and returned to his position. Like Sebastian, he also lay down.

“Who are they?” He asked again.

Through the simulation glass scope of his sniper, he watched the events outside the mansion. Guests in fancy attire were arriving.

“Business tycoons, actually they are a gay couple.”

Atlas glanced at Sebastian, and only one person came to mind, but he immediately dismissed it.

He turned his attention back to what he was doing earlier. “Who else?”

“A 19-year-old guy.”

“What?!” Atlas asked in surprise. “Why does my mother want that guy killed?”

Shrugging, Sebastian answered, “I don’t know! Maybe your mother has an explanation? Maybe this guy is a hindrance too?”

Atlas frowned, still not understanding why a 19-year-old boy was part of their mission.

“What’s his name?”

“Hurace.”

Atlas turned to Sebastian. “Hurace?”

“Yes.”

He remembered someone again. Just hearing the similar name made him think of a person.

“Are there more?”

“Yes. We have many targets today. The only problem is how you’ll kill them if you don’t know their faces.” Sebastian face-palmed.

“Tell me who they are, describe their physical appearance, and I’ll kill them.”

Sebastian smiled and then got serious about his job. Moments later, his mother spoke from the other line, saying they were already executing their plan, and then his brother spoke, saying the ship had arrived.

“Servantes noticed me!” His mom hissed. “Fuck! This man really won’t leave me alone! He’s ruining our plan!”

Atlas carefully observed the mansion. Even though it was night, the mansion was well-lit, so he could clearly see the arrivals and departures. They also used green light.

“Take this man down! I’ll bring him out, and you should shoot him immediately.”

Atlas gripped his gun tightly, readying himself. He was prepared to pull the trigger.

“Kill his son first,” his mother said sternly.

His mother cursed a few times before falling silent, and a moment later, he heard her talking to someone and called him Hades Servantes. His mother was talking to that man, the one ruining their plan.

“I heard you brought your son here!”

“Oh, yeah. He’s around here somewhere,” the man replied.

Son? This gay couple has a son? How? Maybe they adopted the child?

Sebastian and Atlas looked at each other before returning to their tasks.

Atlas focused on the mansion door, waiting for people to come out. He was ready to pull the trigger.

“The man is yours, Atlas,” Sebastian grinned. “I’ll give you a million if you shoot Monteverde’s son in the head.”

“Two million.”

“Deal.”

“I saw him wearing a tux, stunning and looking exquisite!” His mom laughed. Atlas knew what his mother was doing. She was describing Servantes and Monteverde’s son. “Your son is so tall, Hades! And so handsome!”

“Like his father.” Monteverde chuckled in reply.

“He looks even more handsome with his hair fixed like today! What brand is his tux?”

“Oh, my apologies. I can’t quite remember.”

Atlas and Sebastian exchanged looks, thinking they already knew who they were going to kill.

Kill Monteverde and Servantes’s son first, then the gay couple, then the 19-year-old guy named Hurace, and next, the tons of business tycoons.

“Two million, Atlas, if you shoot him in the head.”

Atlas grinned and focused on the mansion door.

He could feel the tension rising.

He rubbed his chest more.

Through his sniper’s simulation glass scope, he saw a tall man, wearing a tux and looking stunning. Everything his mother said about Hades Servantes’s son matched the man who just came out of the mansion.

Adrenaline rushed through his body. He dropped his sniper and stared at the man coming out of the mansion, his hands in his pockets while looking left and right.

Atlas didn’t know what to do now. Shocked and nervous, he just stared and froze in his place.

Sweat formed on his forehead. Fear, anxiety, and worry enveloped him. He couldn’t explain what he was feeling because it was all mixed up.

“What the fuck is he doing here?!” He hissed.

He quickly stood up and moved away from Sebastian, grabbed his cellphone, and called Race.

“Atlas?! Where are you going?! You need to kill this man!” Sebastian shouted at him, but he ignored it due to his extreme anxiety. Only one person was on his mind.

“Hello?” Race answered.

“Where are you?” His voice cracked.

Atlas couldn’t sit still, worried that Race might get caught up in tonight’s events.

“I am at the party, at the Russo Mansion. Why?”

Atlas took a deep breath. This was the first time he had felt this troubled and anxious.

He had no idea what he would do if Race got involved.

He was nervous. He didn’t know what to say to get Race away from the place. He couldn’t bear the thought of seeing Race hurt.

“What are you doing there?” He kept tapping his foot on the ground.

“Partying.”

“I-I…” He squeezed his eyes shut. He paced back and forth, anxiety gripping him. “I-I need you to…stay away from the mansion.”

“What?”

Fuck. This is harder than I thought!

What’s he doing there?! Why now, when our mission is so important?!

“M-Meet me…tonight. Yeah, meet me at—” ugh! He couldn’t think of a place!— “At…at the cafe you first saw! Yeah. I’ll meet you there, Race…”

“What?! Are you nuts?! Bukas pa ang plano na—”

“Race, please…” He begged. He would beg just to get Race away from that place because he didn’t want anything to happen to him.

He would beg.

“Atlas! I saw him!” Sebastian hissed. “You need to kill him before he goes somewhere!” Sebastian added.

Atlas covered the speaker so Race wouldn’t hear. “Wait, Sebastian. I’ll handle him, okay? Just give me a minute, please?”

He begged.

He felt like his heart would explode from the intense fear and anxiety. Adding to his worry for Race, he felt like he couldn’t take it anymore. He didn’t want anything bad to happen to Race because he knew he couldn’t handle it.

“Race?” He called out to Race.

“Atlas! This is important! We don’t know who he’s calling right now! We need to kill him right now—”

He gestured for Sebastian to be quiet.

“Race?”

“I’ll kill him if you can’t!” Sebastian hissed again.

Atlas closed his eyes tightly.

“Race?”

“Yeah?”

“Race? Do you hear me, Race? Race, meet me at…”

He froze when he realized something.

His fear and anxiety worsened. He felt weak from his realization.

No. It can’t be! No. No way. No, please…

No. No…not him, please…

Not my Race.

“Race…Race…Race…Hurace…” He chanted.

His world fell apart.

“What the fuck, Atlas?! Why are you chanting my name?!”

His name is Hurace.

It felt like cold water had been poured on Atlas.

No, not him. Not him, please. I hope this is not true. Not him, please…

“Atlas!” Sebastian hissed at him.

Atlas turned to Sebastian, who was scoping through the sniper rifle.

Sebastian was about to pull the trigger.

Adrenaline surged through Atlas’s body. He felt cold and couldn’t move from his spot. It was like all the blood drained from his body.

“Sebastian!” He shouted.

He was pale. No blood. He could hardly breathe.

No. No. No. No. Not him, please…

Atlas quickly ended the call.

“If you can’t kill him, then I will! You’re taking too long! He might leave, and we’ll fail this mission!”

“No! No! No! No! No!” Atlas shouted as he ran as fast as he could.

No. No. Don’t kill him! Not him, please. I am begging! Not him!

“Don’t pull that trigger!” He shouted as he ran fast. “Don’t pull that fucking trigger, Sebastian! I’m begging you!” He pushed Sebastian hard.

But it was too late.

It was too late.

Too late…

Sebastian had already pulled the trigger—twice.

Atlas’s world froze. Everything froze. Everything went black. His heart pounded in his ears.

It felt like his heart would explode from fear and shock.

“You…pulled the trigger.” He whispered.

“What the fuck is your problem?!” Sebastian grabbed him by the collar, furious.

“I said don’t pull the fucking trigger!” Atlas yelled back and punched Sebastian repeatedly, tears streaming down his face. “Did you hear me?! I said don’t pull the trigger! Don’t pull the fucking trigger! I begged you not to pull the trigger!”

“If he dies because of you, I will kill you myself!” Atlas backed away from Sebastian and collapsed to the floor.

“What’s your problem?!”

“It’s him…” A single tear fell from his eyes. “It’s him…the guy I like.” Atlas felt weak, losing all strength after what happened. His mind was filled with thoughts of Race. He was fucking worried!

An ambulance siren filled the place, making Atlas feel even more desperate.

CHAPTER 13

“We gave you an easy job, but you can’t do it properly! You both messed up! It was so easy! The target was already outside, and you still didn’t manage to kill him?!”

Atlas’s mother’s voice echoed. She was furious because they didn’t complete their mission properly.

But Atlas can’t focus. His mind always drifts to Race; he is damn worried. Not a minute goes by without thinking of Race; he can’t breathe properly because he is worried about Race.

He kept blaming himself for what happened. He doesn’t know Race’s condition because he wasn’t given a chance to visit him. It’s too dangerous for Race, and Atlas won’t let himself endanger Race because of his stupidity.

His mind didn’t function properly after what happened; if Sebastian hadn’t stopped him, he would have rushed to Race’s side.

“You both are irresponsible! You can’t even handle a simple mission! I can’t believe this! We failed and ruined our plan because of you!”

In his peripheral vision, he saw his father nodding at his personal guard.

“I won’t let this pass; you need to learn. You should learn from your mistakes so that next time this happens, you know what you’ll face,” his father’s voice echoed. His father approached him and tightly grabbed his jaw.

Atlas jerked his head, but his father pulled it back harshly. Atlas frowned.

“You disappointed me, Atlas. I thought you were good enough, I thought you could do more, but you disappointed me.”

Atlas narrowed his eyes on his father. He doesn’t care about his opinion. “I already know th—fuck!—” Atlas screamed, screamed and screamed to death.

His father buried the kitchen knife into his shoulder.

Fuck!

“I never allowed you to speak, Atlas. Don’t try to speak until I tell you so.”

He squeezed his eyes tight, feeling the burning in his flesh.

It hurts badly.

His father approached Sebastian, and then Atlas heard his friend scream.

Atlas tightly shut his eyes and repeatedly shook his head. He can’t hear this, he can’t stomach this. It makes his body numb; he doesn’t want to hear his friend scream in pain.

“Remember, Sebastian, that the next time you fail, this is not all you’ll get.” His father smiled sweetly at them, making Atlas cringe.

His father addressed everyone in the room where they were being punished.

“They are the reminder that anyone who fails the mission will be punished. I’ll do more than this. Watch closely, everyone, watch what will happen to you if you fail your mission,” his father continued. He faced them and nodded to the man beside him. “Whip them.”

Two men immediately moved into position behind them. Atlas tried to move and fight, but the chains on his hands and feet tightened. He can’t move, can’t fight.

“500 lashes for each of them!” His father commanded, and the man behind them took action.

The lashes on his back came one after another. He wasn’t wearing any clothes, so the whip dug deep into his skin.

Atlas bit back the screams. He won’t scream.

He won’t scream.

He won’t scream.

He won’t shout.

I am stronger. I am stronger. I won’t scre—

The room filled with screams, they screamed the pain they felt every time the men whipped them.

Atlas’s eyes popped open, his bloodshot eyes narrowed at his father who was smiling at him. His eyes darted to his mother, just watching them scream. His gaze shifted to his sister, who was crying and couldn’t look at him. He then looked at his brother, who was staring at him blankly, but he knew deep inside that his brother was worried about him.

“Don’t go easy on him, George. Whip Atlas harder, don’t think that he is my son. Imagine that he is an enemy being punished,” his father said.

Atlas screamed every time the whip hit his back. He could feel his back becoming numb, he couldn’t feel it anymore. Blood was dripping from his back and sweat was streaming down his face.

Race.

Race.

Race.

He is fine. Please, be fine. You’re stronger than I thought. Please, be fine.

I am sorry.

Race—

“FUCK! Shit—” he screamed and screamed and screamed and screamed.

He closed his eyes and bit the inside of his cheek, and he kept telling himself that everything would be okay.

He squeezed his eyes shut.

Sebastian also screamed continuously, accompanied by the sounds of chains as they tried to move.

Atlas’s and Sebastian’s screams mixed together. They both tried their best not to scream because they were strong, they were brave. But, they couldn’t help it. It was too much. It made them weak, it made them feel numb and tired.

Tired of shouting. Tired of fighting. Tired.

Atlas’s knees grew weak, trembling, and he could barely feel them anymore. Until his legs gave out, but he couldn’t kneel on the platform where they were being punished because their hands were tied with chains to keep them standing.

“250!” shouted the man behind him.

His vision became blurred. He saw clouds; he didn’t know if they were really clouds or if he was just hallucinating. Heat. He could feel heat in his eyes.

He dropped his head, tired.

He shook his head trying to wake himself up, he tried not to sleep. He tried to keep his eyes open, but his eyelids felt heavy, closing involuntarily.

He shook his head again and popped his eyes wide open.

Don’t sleep. Don’t sleep. Don’t sleep, he kept telling himself.

Atlas jerked and screamed when the man behind him whipped him again and again and again and again.

And he screamed.

Hot water streamed down his face. He looked down and saw the water dripping at his feet.

His sweat? Maybe because his forehead was sweating.

But his eyes were blurred. He saw clouds and he could feel the heat in his eyes. He then realized that the water was not from his sweat.

It was his tears.

He’s crying.

He’s crying because of the pain.

No. Don’t fucking cry, Atlas! You are a grown-ass man! Don’t cry! Don’t sleep. Don’t fucking sleep—

Everything went black.

He felt something or someone touching his back.

He popped his eyes wide open. He was lying face down on an unfamiliar bed. He heard voices in the room.

Slowly, Atlas tried to get up, but someone immediately stopped him.

“You need to rest, bro,” someone told him. “Just rest.”

He shook his head and still tried to stand up. “I need to go to the hospital,” he needed to see Race. He needed to know if Race was fine.

“You can go tomorrow,” Rile still held him back.

He shook his head, saying, “I need to see him now—”

“And you can hardly walk! You need to rest, your wounds are swollen and fresh. You should take a rest.”

Atlas stood up but sat back down when he felt the intense pain in his back.

“Fuck,” he whispered. “How bad is my wound?” he asked.

“Fucked. Really, fucked. It looks gross and really hideous.” Rile scratched his head and laid Atlas back down.

“I need to bandage your back,” he said. “You and Sebastian look awful, you know that? That man can hardly get up from his bed and until now he’s not awake.”

“Sebastian,” he said. “How is he? Where is he? Is he fine? Healing? How are his wounds?” he asked Rile one after another as Rile bandaged his back.

“He’s surviving. You both are surviving. This,” Rile took a deep breath. “What happened is awful and I can’t imagine it. This is the first time your father punished his men.”

Atlas flinched when he felt the pain in his back.

“Where is he? Can I see him?” he asked, referring to his friend—Sebastian.

He felt guilty because Sebastian was punished because of him. This is all his fault.

“Later, after I’ve bandaged your body,” Rile answered.

They went silent for a while, no one spoke. Atlas couldn’t help but worry about Race; he hadn’t heard anything—what happened next and what Race’s condition was.

Is he safe? Did Sebastian really shoot him? Is he alright?

I hope he’s fine.

Minutes passed, and Rile asked, “How are you, man?” He had finished with the bandages.

“I’m not fine,” Atlas confessed. His back still ached. He could still feel the pain from the whipping; it felt like he was still being whipped due to the intense pain.

“You need to rest—”

“Take me to Sebastian,” he cut Rile off. “I need to check on him.” He tried to stand up but winced at the pain in his back.

“Let me give you a hand,” Rile said, helping Atlas to stand.

Atlas exhaled deeply once he stood upright. He hadn’t realized the extent of his ordeal.

“Rile, can you—”

“Weew! Weew! Weew!” Someone shouted from outside, mimicking the sound of an ambulance siren.

“Weew! Weew! Weew! Emergency, emergency!” James appeared with a wheelchair. He stopped and faced Atlas, saluting. “Sir, your service is here, Sir!”

Atlas couldn’t help but roll his eyes at James’s antics.

“What happened to you, James?” Atlas asked, then turned to Rile. “Did he eat something strange?” Gesturing at James.

Rile shrugged. “He probably escaped from the mental ward, but they fed him well there. Don’t worry, he doesn’t bite.” Rile patted Atlas’s shoulder and helped him sit in the wheelchair.

“Where to, my lord?” James asked as he began pushing the wheelchair.

Atlas looked at James. “My lord?”

“Yes, that’s what they call someone with a high rank—”

“Enough with your nonsense, James. Make sure to eat properly,” Atlas said.

“I did eat,” James replied. “I think you’re the one with a problem, boss,” he laughed loudly.

“Shut up.”

“Did you dislocate your back, boss? Are you disabled?” James burst out laughing.

Atlas didn’t know what to do with this man. He seemed a bit unhinged.

“My back is dislocated. The boss is disabled,” James sang.

Atlas ignored James.

They entered a room, and the first thing Atlas saw was Sebastian sitting on the bed while his back was being treated.

Atlas stared at his friend. Something hit his chest when he saw Sebastian’s condition.

Atlas took a deep breath. “How are you?” he asked in a low voice.

“You? How are you?” Sebastian asked back.

“I asked first,” he rolled his eyes.

“That’s not what I meant,” Sebastian said. “How are you? Did you already visit him?”

Oh.

He froze.

No.

He’s not fine. He can’t focus.

He gestured toward Rile. “My doctor said ‘I need to rest’. I’ll visit him tomorrow.”

Sebastian nodded and also nodded to the doctor treating him.

Sebastian faced Atlas, looking at him sympathetically. “I’m sorry, man,” he continued. “I didn’t know that was him. I didn’t know him, okay. I’m really so—”

“You don’t have to apologize, Sebastian,” Atlas took a deep breath. The incident was still fresh in his mind. The terror when he saw Race outside the mansion and Sebastian almost killed Race. “It’s my fault too… I didn’t even know that he was there. He just told me that he would attend a party, but my mistake was that I didn’t ask him where—and I didn’t tell you that it was him after I saw him outside the mansion.

“I was overwhelmed when I saw him. I didn’t know what to do. In my panic, I didn’t tell you right away; instead, I called Race to ask him to meet me at the first café he saw—but when I glanced at you, you were ready to pull the trigger, and you did.”

They went silent. The silence was deafening.

“When will you visit him?” Sebastian asked after a few minutes of silence.

“Maybe tomorrow?” Atlas shrugged. “I feel guilty. I don’t know what to say when I see him. It’s my fault that he’s in the hospital. I don’t even know his condition. If he’s okay, if he’s in critical condition—but I hope not. I can’t see him lying in a hospital bed with a bandage on his wound knowing that I am at fault for why he got shot.”

God. I can’t even face him.

How can I face him when I am guilty? When I am the one at fault for why he’s lying in the hospital bed?

I am the one to blame, not Sebastian.

“It’s my fault too,” Atlas looked at Sebastian. “I didn’t listen to you when you said ‘don’t pull the trigger’. I heard you say that, but I didn’t listen. You pushed me away, but it was too late because I had already pulled the trigger.”

Atlas took a deep breath.

He needed air.

“Then you told me that it was him, the guy you like, and it was the first time that you begged and you were about to cry. It hurt me to see you like that, man. It was the first time I saw you like that, and it made me worried,” Sebastian added.

Atlas nodded. They were done reflecting.

“That’s heartbreaking,” James whispered and wiped his fake tears.

Atlas glared at James. “Where were you when the incident happened?” Atlas asked.

James rolled his eyes. “Your mother commanded me to crack the passcode of the Russo’s safe, but it went wrong when the Servantes showed up. Then someone blocked me from the system and kicked me out,” tears fell from James’s eyes, surprising the three who saw him. “It’s the first time I got kicked out of a system, and someone blocked me! I can’t accept it! It’s really a heartbreaking scene when I stared at the screen and realized that someone kicked me out! It’s like the world crashed on me! I am stressed and depressed! This is soooooo stressful!”

“Will you please stop your drama, James?” Rile said with arms crossed. “I am so tired of your soap opera, you have the worst acting.”

“It’s not acting! It’s reaaaal! My tears are real! My sorrow is real! I am grieving! I think I died inside!” James continued his drama.

“You just crowned the most Dramatic King,” Sebastian said to James.

“Thank you,” James responded.

The three of them rolled their eyes.

“Anyways,” James, Sebastian, and Atlas turned to Rile. “Have you ever wondered why your mother wants that kid to be killed?”

“He’s not a kid,” Atlas said. “He’s a beautiful man—”

“Damn.” Sebastian facepalmed while Rile shook his head.

“I’ll come with you tomorrow to see him!” James exclaimed.

Atlas raised an eyebrow at his two friends, but they just shook their heads, and Rile continued.

“What I am saying is… haven’t you wondered why your mother wants Race to be killed?”

Sebastian and Atlas looked at each other.

“She wants all people to die. Whoever wants to stop her or she thinks that person is a hindrance, she will kill that person without hesitation,” Sebastian answered, glancing at Atlas, who was staring blankly into space.

Why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why, why…

Race, who are you? Why does my mom want you to die?

He didn’t know. He couldn’t think of a reason why his mother wanted Race dead. The man didn’t do anything.

His mom is very desperate!

“Why was Race there?” James asked, serious this time.

Wow.

Atlas shrugged when he realized that James was asking him.

“He didn’t tell me. He just told me that he would attend a party with his parents—”

“Parents?” Rile cut him off.

He looked at Rile, then at James. His eyes grew bigger when he looked at Sebastian.

Their eyes both widened in realization.

Race, Race, Race, Race…Race…

Race—

“Hurace,” he whispered and gazed at Sebastian, who froze in place. “His name is Hurace.”

“Oh, shit,” Sebastian cursed. “James, get my bag!”

James quickly moved and gave Sebastian the bag. Sebastian rummaged through it, and when he found what he was looking for, he showed it to Atlas.

An envelope.

“I think I already know,” Sebastian whispered, but the three still heard him.

Atlas said nothing. His heart pounded in his ears.

Loud. So loud and fast.

Sebastian opened the envelope and searched through the pictures. “Hurace… Hurace… Hurace—” he stopped. Froze. Shocked. His eyes wide open, then he slowly looked toward Atlas. “Fuck.”

“What?” Atlas asked nervously and snatched the picture from Sebastian.

He froze. Stopped breathing. Everything went slow. His heart pounded loudly in his ears.

His heartbeat stopped, fast, stopped, fast.

Jesus. Why on earth is this happening?

“Hurace Adam… Monteverde,” he read slowly what was written on the picture.

He’s smiling, looking at the camera. So beautiful and dazzling. Damn, this man is so exquisitely made!

“It’s him,” he said to no one in particular. “It’s him. It’s really him… Race…” he whispered.

He chanted Race’s name in his mind.

Race, Race, Race, Race.

Hurace… Hurace.

Shitshitshitshitshitshit.

“He’s Monteverde,” he added.

His three friends looked at each other. Two didn’t understand, but Sebastian did.

“When he told you that he would attend a party—”

“He attended the Russo party,” Atlas completed Sebastian’s sentence.

“With his parents,” Rile added.

“He’s Monteverde, so it means…” James trailed off, unable to finish his thought.

“He’s the son of Isaiah Monteverde and is now in a relationship with a man—Hades Servantes—my mother’s enemy, whom she wants dead. Race is the son of the gay couple, and my mom wants him dead too because he’s the son of her enemy.”

Atlas stared into space, the complexity of the situation dawning on him.

No wonder Race was so furious when I insulted the gay couple at the bar, Atlas thought.

“Shit, I didn’t realize it sooner,” Sebastian muttered. “I didn’t recognize him when I saw him leaving the mansion, and I thought he was someone else. It turns out your mom had already put him on the kill list. She even put his picture in the envelope! Damn it! Why didn’t I recognize him right away?”

“Because he’s more handsome in person than in the virtual picture,” Atlas said, staring at the photo.

Damn, if I had just looked at the contents of the envelope, I would’ve known he was on the kill list, and I could have told Sebastian not to include Race! How stupid!

This is really all your fault, Atlas! Next time, check the envelope your mom gives you!

“Give me back the picture—”

Atlas pulled the picture away. “I’ll keep this,” he said. “I’m going back to my room to rest. I need to process everything! They’ve dumped a ton of problems on me all at once!…”

He looked at the picture once more. He smiled, but it was a smile tinged with hurt—pain.

Damn, so handsome.

CHAPTER 14

“How’s your shoulder?” his dad asked him.

Race looked over his shoulder before he answered, “Good, but I can’t move it though it still hurts.”

Isaiah took a deep breath, his jaw clenched and serious. He was really mad and furious because of what happened in the Russo Mansion, especially because Race was involved.

At that time, Isaiah was inside the mansion talking with his acquaintance. He didn’t know where Hades was, but then he heard someone screaming and shouting outside the mansion. He wasn’t going to pay attention to it, but someone approached him and said that Race—his son—was shot.

He didn’t know what to do at that time, he began to panic because he didn’t know what to do when he saw his son lying on the ground with blood all over his shoulder. Luckily, Hades arrived and the people who first witnessed the incident quickly called an ambulance.

“Take a rest, son. You’ll be able to leave tomorrow morning,” Isaiah said and messed up Race’s hair. “Rest, bud.”

Race looked at his father for a moment before nodding and closing his eyes because he couldn’t bear the pain in his shoulder.

He got shot in his shoulder near his armpit. The first bullet hit him, but the second one just grazed his arm because he immediately fell when he was hit in the shoulder.

It happened quickly, and Race didn’t expect it to happen to him. He was talking to Atlas over the phone because Atlas wanted him to go to the first café he saw, but then Atlas disappeared on the other line. He was about to call Atlas again, but he collapsed from the gunshot and because of the shock, he passed out.

Speaking of Atlas, he still hasn’t visited Race.

Race is wondering what he’s doing right now and where he is and why Atlas isn’t visiting him. He’s been here in the hospital since yesterday and he expected Atlas to visit him right away, but he hasn’t come yet.

He shook his head lightly.

Why am I even thinking that? Of course, he won’t come. And why am I expecting him to come visit me?

He clenched his fist.

“Race,” his father touched his head lightly and stroked his hair gently.

Race slowly opened his eyes and looked at his father. “Yes, Dad?”

“Your shoulder is bleeding.”

He looked at his shoulder. “Oh,” he only said.

“Are you okay?” Isaiah asked while calling a nurse to change his bandage. “You look so tense and it’s like you’re thinking deeply.”

He shook his head, “I’m fine, Dad.”

“You sure?”

He nodded and closed his eyes again, this time he was relaxed and calm.

“Yes, Dad. Thanks.”

Even with his eyes closed, he could still feel his father’s worried eyes on him.

Race sighed and finally looked at his dad again. “I’m fine, Dad. I’m just tired and sorry for the trouble—” his words were cut off.

“No, buddy. I am sorry for not protecting you,” Isaiah smiled. “Now, take a rest.”

He was about to close his eyes when his Papa opened the door and walked straight to him.

“Hey, son, how are you feeling?”

“I’m fine, Pa.”

Hades nodded at him then faced Isaiah. “We have to talk outside.”

“You can talk here,” Race interjected while looking at his parents.

“No, son—”

“Is it about the shooting incident?” He asked. When no one answered, he continued. “I want to hear it.”

“Yeah, we can talk here, Hades. Race is already nineteen, he’s not a baby anymore,” Isaiah said.

“He’s still my baby bubu.”

Race rolled his eyes because of what his Papa said. His Papa used to call him baby bubu when he was still a toddler.

“Anyway,” Hades’ face immediately turned serious as he faced Isaiah again. “The investigator didn’t find any trace of the person who shot Race. They can’t be traced because they did it cleanly, they didn’t leave a single clue.”

Isaiah clenched his jaw, his eyes were bloodshot.

A few moments later, Hades pulled Isaiah to the corner of the room where Race couldn’t hear them, as if they were going to discuss something they didn’t want Race to hear.

They were talking, really, really serious. They were talking like business partners. They were not talking like lovers, no tenderness in their eyes, no gentleness. They talked like strangers.

Race sighed at the sight of his parents and looked away.

He knows that his parents are just worried about him. They are still searching for the person who shot him.

Even Race couldn’t imagine that it would happen. Everything happened so fast, he just saw himself lying on the floor, his body bleeding.

He still remembers the horror he felt that time, the pain, and even the fear he felt, he still can’t forget it.

He was just talking to Atlas over the phone, then in a snap, he saw people around him, shouting and screaming, asking if he’s okay, saying that it was going to be okay.

Speaking of Atlas, that boy didn’t bother to check on him!

Race’s forehead furrowed deeper while thinking about where Atlas was and why he still hasn’t visited him.

He expected Atlas to come to check on him, but until now, nothing.

I know that he already knows what happened to me because we talked before that happened! Even the incident is all over the internet!

He should be here to check on me. Unless he doesn’t care.

I won’t talk to him ever.

Why isn’t he even here to check on me? He didn’t even call?!

Race expected Atlas to show up yesterday because he knew that guy would be worried about him after hearing about the shooting incident, but until today he hasn’t shown up? Not even a call?

The heck. Being busy is not a valid reason.

I will not talk to him. I swear.

Because of Race’s constant thinking and cursing Atlas in his mind, he fell asleep. He woke up to find his parents gone from the room, and his shoulder bandage had been changed.

But still, he roamed his eyes around the room. Expecting to see someone sitting on the couch waiting for him to wake up but he saw none.

Race sighed and sat up, then leaned his back against the headboard of the bed. With his left hand, he reached for the remote and turned on the TV.

Using his left hand, he also reached for the fruit on the table next to his bed.

He couldn’t move his right hand because his shoulder hurt every time he moved it; it felt like something was stabbing it.

But he stopped eating when the door rang. Race looked at the door and ignored the anxiety that wrapped around his heart.

He waited. He waited for the person to show up and maybe kill him?

His eyes narrowed as the person entered the room.

He became still. Race didn’t move at the sight of Atlas, wearing simple jeans and an oversized t-shirt and a hat.

Atlas glanced at the door and hissed, “I said stay here!”

Race’s forehead furrowed as he watched Atlas near the door.

He was talking with someone behind that door.

“We want to see him!”

“You can’t. Just stay here—”

“No. We made a deal—”

“Yes, we made a deal, and you agreed to stay outside the room!” Atlas hissed again, looking at him then back to the person he was talking to.

“Man, it’s not fair!”

Oh. What’s happening? Why is everyone hissing like they’re hiding from someone?

“What? It’s fair! We agreed that you should stay outside—”

“Tapos ano? Sosolohin mo siya?” (And then what? You’ll have him all to yourself?)

Atlas pinched the bridge of his nose, one hand falling to his hips.

He looks attractive.

Race’s unspoken words.

“Why don’t you let him go inside, Atlas?” Race interjected.

Heads popped in the door.

“Yes, heads. It’s not just one, not two, but three.

“See? He let us go inside!” The other one said and stepped inside. He was probably the one talking and arguing with Atlas earlier.

They entered one after another, and like Atlas, the three were also wearing simple jeans, with only one of them wearing a hat.

The first one to enter didn’t have a muscular build, unlike Atlas.

“Hey, I finally met you!” he greeted happily and even approached Race to shake hands.

“Wow, you are really so beautiful, I can’t believe this!” he said dramatically. “Why did God give you so much credit?”

Oh. He thinks he blushed.

Ugh. He’s not gay. Men don’t blush.

“Thanks,” he only replied.

He didn’t know how to respond to that because this was the first time someone called him beautiful, especially boys.

“I’m James, by the way,” he was about to approach again, but a muscular guy pulled him back, as if he was in the gym every day. His body was bigger than Atlas’s.

“I am Sebastian. I apologize for his inconvenience. He’s really a headache and really talks nonsense.”

A smile slipped on Race’s lips.

James pouted but didn’t argue. Then the third boy just waved his hand at him.

“Rile,” the boy said. Very quiet but smiled at him.

“Really, Race,” James spoke again. “I really meant it when I said you are beautiful, I can’t blame my friend like—”

“Enough.” Atlas blocked his sight, and now he couldn’t see James.

“I didn’t notice that you came closer,” Race said to Atlas.

“And that’s because your attention is on someone else,” Atlas retorted, and Race saw it. Race really saw Atlas roll his eyes.

James spoke again, “I wish I had a beautiful face too, you know girls would crave for me.”

Race tilted his head to see James, but Atlas quickly blocked him.

“Focus on me, Race. Eyes on me. Only me,” Atlas said, his voice hoarse, and he thinks the three behind Atlas didn’t hear it.

His heart didn’t function well, it showed on the monitor.

If Atlas weren’t here, he would rub his chest because of the strange feelings he felt inside.

Race adjusted his sitting position. “Oh, do you have something to tell me?” he asked.

Atlas stared at him, stiff, and his eyes wandered from his face down to his body.

Race swallowed. He couldn’t take how Atlas was staring at him.

Finally, Atlas stopped wandering over his body and asked, “How are you?” His voice was very low, and there was something in his voice, but Race couldn’t say what it was.

Race nodded, looking at his shoulder. “But it kinda hurts though, I can’t move this hand because it hurts,” he said, shrugging.

Race looked up at Atlas, who was staring at him and his shoulder bandage. When Atlas looked at his eyes, he smiled.

He smiled, but it looked like it hurt.

His smile didn’t reach his eyes.

Something is wrong with Atlas.

“Are you okay?” he asked this time.

Atlas blinked and then nodded. “Yeah, I’m good.” He showed a fake smile again, and Race hated it.

“When can you leave?” Atlas asked.

“My dad said tomorrow.”

Atlas nodded, eyes still on his shoulder.

No one talked. The silence was deafening. Even the three didn’t talk.

A minute passed, and Atlas spoke.

“I’m so sorry…” he whispered. “I-I…” He couldn’t finish the word and shook his head.

“Why are you sorry?” Race asked with a furrowed brow.

Race didn’t know why Atlas was apologizing. There was nothing Atlas had to apologize for because he hadn’t done anything wrong.

Maybe, Atlas was just guilty for not coming sooner? Or maybe he was guilty because after they talked, Race got shot?

“I-I am worried. I am terrified…” he whispered.

“Why are you terrified, Atlas? Tell me, why?” Race tried to reach for Atlas’s hand but stopped himself before he could do it.

“I-I’m terrified when you get shot… I am so scared, it’s my first time feeling like a lost boy. It is so terrifying to feel it again.”

Atlas’s eyes darted to him. Pain, worry, and fear were visible to Race now. He could see it clearly in Atlas’s eyes. So much emotion, and he just wanted to pull Atlas into his arms and embrace the boy.

Race was speechless after Atlas told him that. They were just staring into each other’s eyes.

Race’s eyes lowered to Atlas’s lips, and Atlas licked them.

There were so many secrets there, and Race wanted them out. There were so many unspoken words there, and he wanted to hear them.

Race looked back at Atlas, staring into his eyes.

There were also words in his eyes, but he was afraid to tell them, afraid to show them. There was a lot of emotion in Atlas’s eyes that only Race could see.

He wanted to know Atlas more. He wanted to know this guy better and understand him. This man was a treasure, and nobody saw it.

Race’s gaze lowered to Atlas’s hands, and he found them shaking. He looked at Atlas’s eyes again.

“You’re shaking,” he said.

Atlas looked down at his hands. “Oh.”

“Are you okay?” Race asked worriedly, and without realizing it, he reached for Atlas’s hand with his left hand.

He felt it trembling in his bare hands.

“I’m scared,” Atlas finally said.

Race looked up, waiting for Atlas to continue.

“I won’t let it happen again,” Atlas’s voice was low but serious. “I won’t let it happen again to you. I will protect you, and I promise that no one can harm you.”

He was totally speechless. He couldn’t laugh; Atlas seemed so serious.

“Protect from what?” Race whispered.

Atlas’s eyes narrowed at him. “From everyone,” he said. “Even from me, Race.”

Race blinked rapidly; he couldn’t explain the feelings he had because it felt like his heart was going to explode.

His parents would protect him at all costs, but this guy was different. Atlas would protect him from everyone, even from himself.

Race couldn’t stop himself any longer. He pulled Atlas’s shirt and hugged him with one arm.

He didn’t say a word; he was too shy, afraid of what might come out of his mouth. He was surprised by his actions and why he hugged Atlas.

“Who will protect you from everyone, Atlas?” Race whispered, still hugging Atlas.

Atlas bowed his head and returned the hug but didn’t speak; he just hugged Race.

“Are you two together?” James’s words startled them.

Atlas moved away from Race, and Race sat up straight.

“Don’t interrupt their moment!” Sebastian punched him again.

“What? I am just asking because I am totally confused right now, okay?” He looked at the two beside him. “You guys told me that these two aren’t a thing? Then why were they just hugging a while ago?”

“Can you just be serious for an hour?” Sebastian retorted.

“I’m serious!” James hissed, “look at my face, Sebastian! Look at me, I am serious!”

Race smiled watching Atlas’s friends. No wonder Atlas really treasured his friends.

“Don’t mind them,” Atlas said.

Race looked at Atlas and nodded.

“It’s fine.”

“We have to go,” Atlas said.

Race nodded again.

“I’ll call you to check on you. Don’t forget to charge your phone, and please, pick up your phone, Race.”

“Yeah, I will, Atlas.”

Atlas nodded, stared at him, and bent down to hug him.

Race smiled and patted Atlas’s back, but he felt Atlas wince.

“What happened to your back?” he asked.

Atlas shook his head and looked at his companions, who now looked worried.

James was biting his hand, while Sebastian had both hands on his head. Rile seemed calm but couldn’t stop staring at Atlas.

“You sure?” Race asked again and patted Atlas’s back.

“Ow,” Atlas winced, and his eyes twitched.

Something was wrong, but he didn’t dare ask. Atlas would tell him when he was ready.

“We have to go,” Atlas said with a grimace and turned around. James quickly approached him.

“Is your back still there, boss?” he asked.

They left, and after a few minutes, his parents returned.

He felt content.

CHAPTER 15

Race was fully healed. He could now move his shoulder without feeling any pain.

He was healed, but his father, Isaiah, was still worried about him. Even though his father didn’t show it, Race could feel Isaiah’s concern for his well-being.

Because of that shooting incident, Isaiah had been restless, unlike Hades, who remained calm. Isaiah was so worried that, without telling Race, he had hired bodyguards to watch over him wherever he went.

Race could see them everywhere; wherever he turned, he noticed people quietly observing him.

He couldn’t blame his father since that incident was very traumatizing. When Race first left the hospital, he himself was restless, fearing he might be shot again. He was also afraid to leave their house, worried that what happened at the Russo mansion might happen again.

But as days passed, Race’s fear subsided. Nothing had happened to him in eight days. No one had tried to harm him, and Race thought that maybe he wasn’t the target of the shooting. He believed he might have just been caught in the crossfire or mistaken for someone else.

Eight days had passed, but he still hadn’t heard a word from Atlas. Atlas hadn’t shown up at school or contacted him in any way. Not even a text or a shadow of Atlas had appeared.

He was worried. Race was worried about Atlas. Their last interaction was when Atlas visited him in the hospital with his friends, and since then, Atlas had never shown up or contacted him.

He was concerned because he felt like Atlas was hiding something from him. Race noticed it when Atlas visited him in the hospital. It seemed like Atlas wasn’t telling him everything, especially when Race patted Atlas on the back and saw him wince. Race knew something was off, that Atlas was hiding something from him.

For eight days, Race had been waiting for a text or call from Atlas. As hard as it was to admit, he missed Atlas.

He felt foolish.

When Atlas was around, he would push him away because he didn’t want to feel the strange sensation he felt whenever Atlas was near. He felt strange when Atlas was close, and he didn’t want to feel that because he couldn’t explain it.

But now that Atlas was gone, he found himself longing for his presence. Every time he went to school, Race found himself looking for Atlas, hoping to see him waiting at the gate to greet him and tease him.

He was truly going crazy.

Race was walking to his next class when his phone suddenly rang.

He stopped and immediately grabbed his phone from his pocket. His heart skipped a beat when he saw Atlas’s name on the screen.

He took a deep breath and squeezed his eyes shut. He couldn’t believe it! He felt a surge of excitement as soon as he read Atlas’s name on the screen. He tried to calm down, but he couldn’t; his heart was still racing with excitement and joy.

His hands were shaking as he read Atlas’s text.

Atlas: Hey, how are you doing?

His phone beeped again.

Atlas: Jesus. I know this is crazy and not so fucking me, but fucckk, Race! I really miss you, okay?

Race stared at his phone in shock. He couldn’t hear anything but his heart pounding fast and loud in his ears. It felt like something had hit his heart when he read Atlas’s text.

He didn’t respond immediately. He didn’t know what to say to Atlas’s text.

He saw three gray dots on his screen, meaning Atlas was typing something.

He waited and waited and waited.

But the dots disappeared.

Race frowned at his phone. He waited for another text from Atlas, but none came.

“What the fuck?” he hissed and found himself calling Atlas.

After just three rings, Atlas answered the phone.

“I assume that you missed me too,” Atlas chuckled.

Race frowned deeper when he heard loud cheering on the other line.

Where the fuck is he?

“Hey! Please, talk…” Atlas added.

Race took a deep breath, looked around, then stared at the door of the room he was supposed to enter.

He turned his back and went to sit under a large tree. He couldn’t believe he just ditched his class.

“Where are you?” he asked Atlas.

“At The Club!” Atlas shouted.

The noise on the other line grew louder.

“It’s still morning,” Race noted.

“They’re open 24/7.”

“What are you doing there? Aren’t you supposed to be at school?” Now, he sounded like his father.

“Ah, my Race misses me.”

Shit.

Race immediately rubbed his chest when he felt like something hit his heart.

“Race?”

He cleared his throat. “Yeah?”

“Hurace is your name, right?”

How? How did he know?

“Yeah…”

Atlas fell silent on the other line, but Race could still hear the loud cheering and music.

“I have something to tell you,” Atlas paused. “I think I am crazy.” Atlas laughed, and Race just listened.

“Jesus! I just want this out of my heart, okay? I just don’t like this feeling, and it’s very strange to me, Race. In the past eight days, I’ve just fucking felt this all of a sudden, and I don’t know how to get it out of my fucking heart.”

Atlas took a deep breath. Race could imagine him running his calloused hand through his hair.

“Are you drunk?”

Race knew Atlas was crazy, but the Atlas he was talking to now didn’t feel like him.

“I drink but I’m not drunk,” Atlas giggled. “Hey, listen to me first, okay?”

“Hmm.”

“Hmm,” Atlas mocked him and chuckled.

He’s really drunk.

“Anyway, I know this is really crazy and I know this is sudden. I really missed you, Race,” he went on. “Crazy, right? Yeah, I know. I feel like I am fucking gay, geez.” Atlas laughed at his own words.

“I really missed you. These past few days that I didn’t see you, I think I really suffered. Yeah, I know it’s cheesy and God, I am very cringe. But, can you blame me for missing you? I miss your smell, your laugh, your eyes. I miss everything about you.”

God. This is too much.

Race closed his eyes tightly as he listened to Atlas. He leaned back on the bench and swallowed hard.

“God, thanks! I don’t feel heavy now,” Atlas laughed. “You know what? I felt something heavy in my heart, but when I told you everything, I felt light, like the weight was lifted because I said what I’ve wanted to say for a long time. But that’s not all I want to say, Race. There’s more, but I’ll tell you next time.”

Race bit his lip. He liked what he felt right now. It felt like something was tickling him, and he couldn’t help but smile at everything Atlas said to him.

If someone saw him right now, they’d think he was crazy because he was smiling alone. Smiling like he was crazy and in love.

Wait. In love? No, no, no, no!

In love? No! I’m not in love, I’m just happy. That’s all.

“Uh, I think I said it all? Again, I miss you. Fuck, this is so gay and I am not gay! Shit. Bye, Race.”

“Atlas—”

Atlas hung up.

Race stared at his phone.

“He hung up,” he said to himself.

He stood up and grabbed his bag. Instead of heading to his next class, he went in a different direction. He was now heading out the gate and didn’t know why. Never in his life had he skipped class, but now, out of curiosity about what else Atlas wanted to say, he skipped class just to see Atlas.

He wanted to hear what else Atlas had to say to him. He admitted that it felt good when Atlas said he missed him.

He quickly flagged down a taxi and asked to be taken to The Club where Atlas was. It was early in the morning, and Atlas was drinking alcohol.

When Race arrived at The Club, he immediately went inside, and Atlas didn’t lie when he said it was open; there were indeed many people inside.

He immediately scanned the room and spotted Atlas at the counter, drinking and clearly drunk.

Race quickly approached Atlas. As he got closer, his heart beat faster, and he couldn’t calm it down.

Atlas was about to drink again, but Race stopped him.

“That’s enough,” he said in a low voice, but enough for Atlas to hear.

Atlas turned to him, his eyes widening when he saw Race standing behind him.

“What on earth is happening to me?” he said, staring at him with parted lips. Atlas couldn’t believe he was seeing Race standing there. He rubbed his eyes like he was dreaming. “The fuck? Am I hallucinating again?” he said and pinched his cheek.

“You’re drunk,” Race whispered.

Atlas raised both his hands. “Okay, cool,” he said. “I’ve been hallucinating these past few days, okay? I saw Race everywhere, and I heard his voice everywhere, and I am so fucked up, okay? I know, I’m crazy, and I know you think that too!” He laughed and shook his head.

Race sighed and sat beside Atlas.

“Do you have a problem?” he asked, staring at him.

“Yeah? I don’t know if I consider this a problem,” Atlas chuckled and was about to grab a drink, but Race didn’t let him.

“That’s enough. You’re already drunk.”

“I said I’m not drunk; I’m drinking—”

“Do you want to talk about it?” Race cut him off.

“Nah, it’s not really a big problem.”

“Then why are you here? Drinking?” Race moved the bottle of alcohol out of Atlas’s reach, noticing that his eyes were almost closed and his face was red even in the dim light.

Atlas faced him and pouted. “It’s just my heart, okay? It’s not a big problem—”

Race’s heart pounded loudly. “You have a heart disease?!” he was shocked.

“Fuck, no!” Atlas scratched his head before continuing. “It is just my heart,” he said, pointing at his chest. “I am so confused right now. I am so confused and I badly want this out of my heart. It’s really heavy and I don’t feel well because I’ve been thinking of him these past few days. I’m not supposed to think of him but I do.” He might cry.

Race tried to calm himself, even calming his racing heart.

He thought he might have a heart attack.

“You were thinking of him and it makes you annoyed,” Race asked gently.

Atlas looked at him, and it seemed like he didn’t recognize Race, or maybe he did but believed it was just a hallucination. “Annoyed?” He paused. “I’m not annoyed. I miss him every day and I want to see him and feel him and smell him and just stare at him.” He rested his chin in his palm, staring into space.

Something hit Race’s heart. It skipped faster and faster every second, and Race was afraid he might have a heart attack right then.

It felt strange, but it felt good when Atlas said it. It was like he was on cloud nine.

It wasn’t just Atlas who had said he missed him, but it was only now that Race felt the joy when the boy said it.

“But I did something to him…” Atlas’s voice weakened, almost inaudible to Race. “I’m so sorry… I truly am.”

“I’ll take you home—”

“I am not gay, okay?” Atlas suddenly pointed at him. “I am not gay and I am not supposed to like that boy but my heart craves for him.”

He likes me.

He damn well likes me.

Why does it feel good? Why does it make him happy? Why does it make Race smile like he’s an idiot and crazy?

“You like me?” Race asked, raising an eyebrow while crossing his arms and staring intently at Atlas.

Atlas stopped and stared at him for a few seconds before slowly raising his hand and messing up Race’s hair.

“Are you real?” Atlas asked in shock.

Race tried to suppress his smile. “What do you think, Atlas?” He cocked his eyebrow.

Atlas stared at him again for a few seconds and then swore. “Fuck,” he rubbed his face with his calloused hands. “I am not hallucinating?” he asked.

Race shook his head, the corners of his lips lifting, making him look even more handsome and attractive.

Atlas was stunned, just staring at him. “Oh, shit. Don’t smile at me like that,” Atlas shook his head and turned away but almost fell. Luckily, Race was quick to help him.

“You’re drunk, I should take you home—”

“No.” Atlas quickly stopped him, now serious. “I won’t let you—”

“You’re drunk—”

“I’ll call you, Bastian.”

“Who’s Bastian?” Race asked, puzzled, while supporting Atlas to keep him from falling.

They walked out of the club and sat on the bleachers outside.

Atlas took out his phone. “I’ll call him—”

“Let me.” Race grabbed the phone from Atlas.

Atlas didn’t resist and just nodded. He let Race search his contacts for the name Bastian.

Race looked at Atlas, who was now leaning his head against the wall with his eyes closed. “There’s no Bastian here.”

“Sebastian,” he breathed, “that is his name.”

Race quickly nodded and called Sebastian.

“Where the hell are you, Atlas? Where did you put your asshole?” the man on the other line started.

“Oh, this is Race and Atlas is here,” Race glanced at Atlas. “He’s drunk and he needs someone to bring him home. He can’t stand on his own and won’t let me take him home, can you come over and fetch him here?”

The person on the other line went silent.

“You there?” Race checked the call; he thought that Sebastian had hung up, but someone spoke.

“Oh, yeah, yeah. I’ll be there in 20 minutes—”

“20 minutes?”

“Yeah…”

“That’s so fast…”

Sebastian chuckled on the other side.

“I’ll hang up now,” Race added and turned to Atlas, who seemed to be asleep.

“You’re Race, right?”

Race frowned at the question. “Yeah, why?”

“Nothing,” he cleared his throat. “I’m coming, bye.”

“Bye.”

After the call ended, Race immediately returned Atlas’s phone, intending to put it in Atlas’s jeans pocket, but the boy quickly stopped him.

“Let me,” Atlas said softly and took the phone from Race.

Race cleared his throat and sat up straight while watching Atlas put the phone in his pocket.

“He’s coming,” Race said.

Atlas tilted his head. “Who’s coming?”

“Sebastian.”

“Oh, that dick will punch me if he knows I just confessed to you,” Atlas murmured.

Race just stared at Atlas. He didn’t know if he should believe what Atlas was saying. Atlas’s words were pleasant to hear, and Race felt something strange in his heart, but he was hesitant to believe them. Atlas was drunk, and he might just be saying things without realizing what he was talking about.

He wouldn’t assume anything; it would only hurt him.

“You like me,” Race said, not taking his eyes off Atlas. He loved staring at the boy in front of him.

“Crazy, right?” Atlas laughed softly. “I know that I am not gay, but here I am thinking of you. Also, I was thinking about what would happen if we ended up together? Crazy, right? I am thinking of you as my boyfriend, and it’s fucking crazy because I never thought of this before—not until I met you.” Atlas raised his hands and laughed softly. “I swore to God that I don’t plan to have a boyfriend or to have feelings towards a boy, but here I am, confused about my feelings, and I need you to get out of my system. I want to stay away from you to stop what I feel for you. But my fucking heart and mind won’t let me forget you! You always come into my mind like a mushroom appearing from nowhere! And when I don’t see you, my body craves you! When I don’t see you, my heart misses you!”

Race was totally speechless, his lips parted. His heart was pounding fast in his ears. He didn’t care if anyone was watching him right now, staring at Atlas like he was in love. He was staring at Atlas with tenderness and gentleness in his eyes.

He couldn’t believe that his heart was beating so fast for this boy.

“Then I got jealous when I saw you with someone,” Atlas pouted and massaged his nose bridge. “Especially when you’re with Bridgette,” he added.

“We’re just friends,” Race said.

“Who?” Atlas asked without glancing at him.

“Bridge and I.”

“When you are together, you two don’t look like just friends,” Atlas looked at him. “You two look like a couple, and it fucking hurts. I am jealous of her.”

Jesus, make my heart calm.

“She’s just my friend—”

“And I am your best fucking friend!” Atlas hissed, and there was jealousy in his voice that made Race smile like an idiot.

Why is he smiling? He really likes to see Atlas like this. It makes him happy to see Atlas throwing a tantrum over Bridgette.

“Self-proclaimed best friend,” he corrected and crossed his arms against his chest.

“Nah, I remember you agreed that I am your best friend.”

“I didn’t agree to anything, Atlas.”

“No, you agreed to be my best friend!” Atlas hissed and turned to face him. “I remember what you told me.”

“And what did I tell you?” Race challenged.

Atlas was drunk, and he loved watching Atlas throw a tantrum. He looked like a baby.

A handsome baby.

Atlas changed his voice, mimicking Race. “‘Atlas, you are my best friend. You are so handsome and humble, I want to be your best friend.’”

Race burst into laughter. He kept tapping his knee while laughing so hard. His stomach hurt because he was laughing too hard, and Atlas was throwing a death glare at him.

“What?! Why are you laughing?” Atlas asked irritably.

Race still didn’t stop laughing. “I-I didn’t say that—”

“You told me that,” Atlas cut him off. “I am your best friend, and she’s just your friend, but you pay more attention to her than to me! It makes me mad, and I am annoyed to see you staring at her. You should pay attention to me because I am your best fucking friend!”

“Uh-huh,” Race leaned his head against the wall and narrowed his eyes while staring at Atlas.

This guy is really handsome. He has an ethereal beauty; everyone likes this guy, and I like him too.

Not gonna lie, I am starting to like this guy. Maybe I felt strange in my body when he’s near because I like him, but I just keep on denying it.

“Race!” Someone shouted, and they both looked in that direction.

Race swore that he really saw Atlas roll his eyes.

“Speaking of your ‘friend’,” Atlas murmured under his breath.

“Why are you here, Race?” Bridgette asked him.

Race looked at Atlas, “I fetched him,” he said.

Bridgette looked at Atlas. “Oh, my God, Atlas! Why are you drinking so early in the morning?”

“Nan ya,” Atlas said.

Bridgette and Race both frowned, puzzled by what Atlas said.

“Nan ya…?” Bridgette asked in confusion and glanced at Race.

“Nan ya business.”

The two gaped at what they heard. They couldn’t believe what Atlas had said.

Race looked at Bridgette and silently apologized. The girl just smiled and stared at Atlas.

They all fell silent, no one speaking among the three of them. Then a car parked in front of them, and a man familiar with Race got out. He had seen this man visit him in the hospital.

“You’re wasted, man,” the man said as he got out of the car. He turned to Race and smiled. “Thank you for taking care of him.”

Race stood up. “No worries.”

Race watched as Sebastian helped Atlas stand and get into the car. When Atlas was inside, Sebastian turned to him again.

“Thank you again.”

“Bring him home safe,” Race said.

Sebastian stared at him for a moment before smiling. “I will.” Then they drove back home.

Only Race and Bridgette were left outside the club.

“He’s so mean…” Bridgette whispered.

Race faced her and hugged her. “He’s drunk, he didn’t mean it.”

“I’m alright,” Bridgette smiled at him. “Let’s walk back to the university?”

Race smiled and nodded.

When Race got home, his father was waiting for him in the living room.

CHAPTER 16

Isaiah looked at him from where he sat. He looked serious and… mad? Race didn’t know; he couldn’t read his father’s emotion.

“I’m home…” he said, his feet nailed to the floor. He couldn’t move.

“Do you have something to tell me?” Isaiah asked.

Race was puzzled. Why had his father asked him that so suddenly?

Race shook his head. “I am good. I feel safe now. If you were asking about what I am doing, well, I was in school and—”

“You ditched your class,” Isaiah cut him off, his voice cold and hard as rock.

Race’s lips parted, shocked at what his father told him.

How did he—

Oh, I forgot. He got bodyguards all around.

Maybe his men reported to him.

“Yeah, I ditched class—”

“Why is that? It’s not you, Race. You don’t like to ditch your class—”

“Dad, tell your men not to follow me around, please,” he cut his father off. He knew it wasn’t good, but he couldn’t help himself.

“Stop telling me what to do, Race,” Isaiah’s voice rose slightly, startling Race.

“Dad, that incident is just a coincidence, okay? I am not the target of that shooting incident, and I am not in danger right now. These past few days, I didn’t receive any threats to my life. I am safe and—”

“We don’t know that, Race. That incident may not be just a coincidence or a mistaken target. Maybe you are the target, but they failed! I can’t risk you, Race. I will send my men to guard you if it’ll make you safe!”

“Dad, even if you send thousands of your men, if I am the target, they’ll kill me, and no one will notice it—”

“You don’t know what you’re talking about, Race. You know nothing—”

“Dad, I hate seeing your men around. I am safe, and I know it, okay? I want you to send them away and tell them to stop following me wherever I go—”

“I said don’t tell me what to do, Race! I am your father, and you’ll listen to me!”

Isaiah stood up from where he was sitting and approached Race.

“Why did you go to that club, Race? When did you start going to clubs?” Isaiah’s voice was as hard as stone, clearly angry.

It’s not the first time he’d seen his father angry, but today was different. His father was really scary; Isaiah was more serious now.

“I had to fetch my friend—”

“Alam mo ba na delikado ang ginawa mo?” Isaiah’s voice rose, “Maraming nagyo-yosi roon, Race, and it’s—”

“I know that, Dad.”

“Oh? You knew the risk? Then why did you still go inside when it’s hazardous for you?!”

Isaiah’s voice thundered around the house.

“Dad, I am sorry… I really fetched my friend because he was drunk, and I called his friend to bring him home.” He whispered, trying not to sound desperate.

“That’s not my point, Race,” Isaiah stared at him intently, his eyes emotionless. “My point is, you put your life in danger!”

Race jumped at his father’s sudden shout.

He was nervous now; he had never been this scared of his father. Isaiah was really mad at him; Isaiah had never once shouted at Race, so Race was shocked and scared.

“D-Dad… I’m so sorry—”

“What should I do when I lose you?! Race, I don’t know what to do when I lose you! I almost lost you, and I don’t want it to happen again! Do you understand me?!”

Race stared at his father. He might cry because of this. His chest was heavy, and he was hurt. He wasn’t angry at his father’s words; his heart felt heavy because he saw his father holding back tears.

“I almost lost you, son…” Isaiah whispered. “So, please… don’t put yourself in danger because I can’t take it to lose you, hmm? You are my son, and I love you, and I will lose my mind if I lose you.” Isaiah’s voice grew softer.

Race looked down, not wanting to meet his father’s eyes, which were holding back tears.

“I am sorry…” he whispered. “I’m sorry. I am so sorry, I truly am. Dad, I’m so sorry…” He kept on saying. Even Race was now holding back his own tears.

“I am worried about you, son. I’m not just worried about that incident, I’m also worried about your health,” Isaiah wiped his hands over his face. “It’s too risky to go to a club, son. Many people smoke there, which could affect or trigger your condition.” Isaiah now faced him, looking at him pleadingly. “Please, listen to me, son. All I want you to do is listen to me. I can’t lose you, son. I can’t.” The last words were almost a whisper.

“I’m so sorry—”

“Stop saying that,” Isaiah cut him off, dropping his head. “I’m not mad, I am worried, okay? I am not mad at you.” Isaiah’s voice softened as he approached Race to hug him and kiss his forehead.

“I’m sorry for shouting, son. I can’t control my emotions when it comes to you, Race. When my men called me saying you went inside a club, I panicked. I was very worried and almost followed you into that club, but then my men said you just went out with someone.”

Race slowly nodded. He loved the feeling of his father’s hug and kiss. The fear and anxiety he felt earlier from his father’s shouting were now gone.

“It was my friend, he was drunk,” Race said.

Isaiah nodded and stepped back.

“Next time, bring your girl here, okay?”

Race looked at his father in confusion, who was now smiling at him.

“My girl?” he asked, puzzled.

“Uh-huh,” Isaiah patted his shoulder. “My men said you were with a girl, and you two walked together back to the university like a couple.”

Oh no. Bridge is not my girlfriend! She’s my friend, for fuck’s sake!

“She’s not my girlfriend, we are just—”

Race stared at his father’s phone as he showed him a picture of him hugging Bridgette. It was when he comforted his friend because she was hurt because of Atlas.

That boy said something to Bridgette.

“She’s not my—”

Isaiah showed him another picture where Bridgette was holding his arm, and he was smiling at her.

They really looked like a sweet and happy couple.

But the truth is, they are not a couple!

“Dad, you misunderstood, okay? Bridge is not my girl—”

“So, Bridge is her name?” Isaiah cut him off and walked back to the sofa.

“Bridgette,” he corrected.

His father faced him, “Bring her here, okay? I want to know her, and please, son, don’t deny her in front of me. It’s not good to deny your girl to your father.” After saying that, Isaiah turned and went to his room.

It was terrifying to see his father mad at him for the first time, and his father really shouted at him, which made him shiver.

He really couldn’t believe it. He thought he might cover his ears because it really hurt hearing his father shout at him, but he understood why his father was angry. It was his fault too. First, he ditched his class; second, he went to a club.

The only thing he couldn’t accept was his father’s insistence that Bridgette was his girlfriend. No matter how much he denied it, his father wouldn’t believe him.

Someone tapped his shoulder. He turned around, and a smile flashed on his lips.

“He’s just worried,” Hades said.

Race nodded, fully understanding his father and feeling no anger towards him either. “I understand, and I know it’s my fault,” he said.

“Don’t take your Daddy’s words to heart,” Hades said.

“It’s fine, Pa. I know he’s just worried about me and afraid to lose me. I really understand, Daddy. I understand where his anger is coming from.” He nodded twice.

Hades nodded and walked towards the kitchen, with Race following him.

“I’m also worried about you, Race. Just like your father, I can’t lose you because we almost lost you. Race, you are precious to us, and if we lose you, we don’t know what to do or what to think. Maybe we’ll lose our minds? Or maybe worse?” Hades took a deep breath and faced Race, patting his shoulder and ruffling his hair. “When I saw you bleeding, I almost had a panic attack. It is hard to watch you bleeding because it really hurts and is terrifying seeing you with blood.”

Race gave a bitter smile, his heart aching.

“Just…let your Daddy do whatever he wants, Race. He can’t take care of you or watch you himself because we have business to handle, that’s why he hired men to watch you. It’s his way to keep you safe while we are away. I know it’s not right to have somebody watch your every move, but we don’t have any choice because we are really worried about you after that incident happened.” Hades took a deep breath before continuing. “So, please, son. Don’t hate us for doing this because all of this is for you. I am sorry on behalf of your Daddy. We’re sorry for doing this, we also don’t like this idea, but we don’t have any choice. Forgive us, son.”

Race might cry; his eyes blurred with tears, but he held back his emotions.

“I am not mad, Pa…I understand…” he whispered.

Hades hugged Race and kissed his head before pulling away.

“When you have a child, you’ll understand the feeling that it’s like you’re dying when you see your child getting hurt. It’s really terrifying,” Hades said gently.

Hades took out bread and Nutella. “I heard your father said that you have a girlfriend,” he said, raising an eyebrow.

“She’s not my girlfriend, Pa. Trust me, she’s just my friend.”

“Friends to lovers, that is your trope,” Hades teased.

Race almost rolled his eyes because his father wouldn’t believe anything he said.

“I swear, Pa. Bridgette is not my girlfriend, she’s just a friend.”

Hades shrugged and took a bite of the bread.

“I also thought I wouldn’t fall for your Daddy, but here I am, deeply and madly in love with him.” Hades winked at him.

Race couldn’t help but roll his eyes at his father’s words.

“I’m not you, okay? I swear, I don’t like Bridgette. She’s just a sister to me—”

“Uh-huh.”

Race rolled his eyes again before continuing. “Yeah, I adore her, but she’s really just a friend—”

“That’s where it starts. You’ll confess your feelings, then court her, then she’ll say yes, then you’ll be together, then when the time is right, you’ll get married, then you’ll have ten kids, and then—”

“Pa, what are you talking about?” Race asked with a furrowed brow, confused by his father’s ramblings.

“There will be no confession, no courtship, no wedding, and no kids,” Race concluded.

His father just stared at him, shrugged, and ignored Race’s words.

A moment later, Hades approached him and patted his shoulder. “Just remember that we’re here for you if you ever break up with your girlfriend. We’ll comfort you, son.”

Argh. He hated his fathers now.

“Not gonna happen, Pa,” Race moved away to get water from the refrigerator. “We won’t break up because we won’t even be together, and I won’t cry over a breakup because I don’t plan on being in a relationship.”

He had long decided not to enter a relationship. He thought everyone dies, and he didn’t like the idea of leaving his partner alone if he died. He didn’t want to have a girlfriend and then leave her alone if he passed away. To prevent that, it’s better to stay single for life than to think about those things.

“Don’t speak too soon, son,” Hades grinned. “We don’t know that; maybe next month we’ll see you crying and chasing after your girlfriend.”

Race shook his head. He no longer argued with his father about Bridgette because no matter what he said, his father wouldn’t believe him. What mattered was that he knew he and Bridgette had no relationship and were just friends.

“Maybe next, you’ll want to get married,” Hades added.

“I don’t have a plan to get married. I want to stay single forever. All I want to do in my life is to take care of you and Daddy when you get old. I just want to be with you and Daddy. I don’t want to be with someone else,” he admitted.

Hades fell silent and just stared at Race.

“That can’t happen,” Hades leaned on the counter, crossing his arms. “We also don’t want you to isolate yourself. We want you to explore the world and go beyond your limitations. There’s something more outside of your comfort zone, something to explore, and you need that adventure. Don’t confine yourself to us. We can take care of ourselves while you explore the world. Please, don’t say that you don’t want to be with someone else. We want you to interact with other people and build trust with them. We won’t last forever, and we don’t want you to be left alone because you isolated yourself with us.”

They both went silent for a moment; no one spoke. The silence was deafening.

His father was right; he needed to explore the world because there was something more outside his comfort zone. He would meet and interact with other people while exploring.

But what if he didn’t want to explore or meet new people? What if he wanted to stay where he was right now? What if he didn’t want to stay away from his family because that was his life?

Race wanted to voice this, but he remained silent.

“By the way,” Race slowly looked at his father. “Your birthday is coming. What are your plans?” Hades asked.

Oh, he almost forgot his own birthday. In two weeks, it would be his birthday.

“And it’s your mother’s death anniversary,” his father added.

It would be his 20th birthday and his mother’s 20th death anniversary.

When he was born, his mother died because of him. Because she gave birth to Race.

“I just want to have a simple gathering, just you, Daddy, and me. We’ll go to the cemetery to visit Mommy, then we’ll eat at a restaurant.”

It was always like that. He didn’t like grand celebrations on his birthday because it felt like he was celebrating his mother’s death as well.

Hades smiled at him. “Okay, okay,” he nodded. “Also, don’t forget to bring your friends, okay? I want to meet and get to know your friends, son. Especially Bridgette.” His father winked at him, and he rolled his eyes.

“I’ll go upstairs to make Daddy happy,” Hades laughed at his own words. “Dang! I really can’t believe I ended up with your father.”

Race raised an eyebrow as he watched his father.

“I’ll just ease his worries and bring back his energy,” Hades winked again and laughed. “I’ll leave you here, okay? Eat if you’re hungry, sleep early, son, and please don’t ditch your class again, hmm?”

His father smiled in the end, muffled his hair, and marched out of the kitchen.

A lot had happened in one day.

Race sighed and sat on a high chair. Atlas suddenly came to mind; he was worried about that guy and whether he got home safely. He forgot to tell Sebastian to text him when Atlas got home. Now, he didn’t know what happened to Atlas or if he got home safely.

While he was deep in thought, his phone lit up.

He immediately read the text.

Atlas: He’s safe. I already brought him home. Safe and sound, nothing to worry about. — Sebastian.

Then Sebastian sent him a picture of Atlas, sleeping peacefully in his bed.

While staring at the picture, he couldn’t help but smile.

CHAPTER 17

Atlas might die.

This is the first time that he is really ready to die—he might die because of embarrassment.

He’s just staring at his phone dumbfounded. Mouth parted and eyes widened.

It happened just yesterday, but he will carry this embarrassment forever.

He can’t believe that he just said this all to Race! He can’t remember texting Race that he misses him! The fuck!

He wants to die.

He wants to die.

He wants to die.

He can’t hold this embarrassment forever. He might die because of this embarrassment!

What did I do?! What the fuck have I done?!

God. This is not me. I didn’t say this to him. I’m not the one who’s texting him.

He bangs his head to the wall.

Bangs. Bangs. Bangs.

It hurts.

His forehead goes red.

He regretted it after.

“Atlas, aren’t you going to university?” His sister knocked on the door.

“No.” He simply said.

There’s no way he’ll go to university after he did some terrible and horrible thing that he might want to forget but he can’t since his mind is always betraying him and always thinking of the shit he’d done.

It’s because of this stupidity, he’ll carry this embarrassment.

“You should go to Uni, At—”

“Ugh, shut up, Artemis.”

A loud bang exploded. His sister just hit his door hard, he didn’t know what his sister threw to create a loud bang.

“Stop destructing my property, Artemis—”

“Don’t call me, Artemis! I am your ate if you forget—”

“Oh, God. I didn’t forget it.” He cuts his sister’s off.  “I just don’t feel like going to University, okay? I just want to stay here,” forever if he likes.

No one talks, his sister went silent. Maybe his sister just walked away? Tired of him?

Atlas just shrugged his shoulders then he went back hitting his head to the wall.

Stupid.

Stupid.

Stupid.

Why did I do that?!

I think it’s time to go to Mars. I want to be an Alien.

He opens his phone and re-read his messages.

Atlas: Jesus. I know this is crazy and not so fucking me but fucckk Race! I really miss you, okay?

He really typed this?! It’s like it’s not him. He wouldn’t text Race like this.

He read the last message. It was Sebastian who sent it, but he attached photos of him! Laying on his stomach and he’s sleeping.

I’ll kill Sebastian for this.

How can he face Race when he carries embarrassment everywhere he goes. It’s so hard to face and talk in front of Race without getting red.

He stopped when he heard a click, then his door flew open and his siblings stepped in.

His shoulder fell.

“This is prying of privacy,” he tries not to roll his eyes.

Can’t.

“We’re worried about you, okay?” His sister—Amber sat beside him, so he quickly turned off his phone and shoved it in jeans’s pocket.

“I’m not sick, you have nothing to worry about,” he says.

“Is it your back that’s why you don’t want to go to University?” Artemis asked in a worried voice. He’s not used to it, they always fight with his siblings.

“No.” He said. “My back’s healing, though I still feel the pain but I can manage it.” Thanks to Rile who’s checking on him 24/7 just to make sure that he’s okay.

“Then why is that, Atlas? Why don’t you want to go to Uni?” Artemis raised an eyebrow.

“None of your business,” he said, averting his eyes.

“He’s keeping a secret from us,” August said quietly, cocking his head towards Atlas.

“When did I ever tell you my secrets, brother?” He cocked his head too.

Amber rolled her eyes. “Stop fighting, okay?” She turned to Atlas and said, “We’re just worried about you, Atlas. It’s the first time Daddy used violence on us—especially since you and Sebastian got involved.”

Right. His dad had just whipped him and Sebastian because they failed their mission.

500 lashes and it almost killed him. He couldn’t take it anymore and his body gave up. He thought that it was his end—a tragic one, but maybe he was lucky enough to still be alive today.

His wounds are healing—not totally healed. He can still feel the pain, mostly every night when he sleeps on his back. It hurts so bad, which is why he sleeps on his stomach.

“It’s not about my back,” he finally said. “It’s just…” He couldn’t finish the word, but his siblings were waiting for him. “I-I did…uhm, horrible and terrible things? Like—I mean, I feel embarrassed afterward. I was drunk, okay? I didn’t know what was happening to me and I couldn’t control myself, that’s why I did it.”

It was weird to tell this to his siblings. They fight and argue all the time but this? Today? He just opened up to his siblings because he didn’t want them to worry about him.

“What?” Artemis frowned. “Wait—I don’t understand. I literally don’t understand.”

He made a face at his siblings.

“You can’t understand me,” he rolled his eyes. “Go out.” He said, pointing at the door. “I won’t go to Uni today.”

“Enlighten us, moron!” August punched him. “You’re really confusing. Are you a girl?”

He glared at his brother.

“Go fucking out, August. I don’t need your ears today,” he snapped.

“Aw, our little brother is being cute today.”

Atlas playfully punched his older brother. “Fuck you.” He showed his middle finger.

“Go on, Atlas, tell us. We are worried about you. You haven’t gone to University for how many days and then yesterday Sebastian brought you home drunk.”

He remembered Sebastian.

“That bastard,” he whispered, enough for his siblings to hear.

“Why? What about him?” Amber asked.

Atlas just exploded in a second. “He just sent me a picture of me sleeping in my bed! I know I’m handsome but he sent my picture to him! I feel embarrassed! I need air.” Atlas moved away from his siblings as they were almost surrounding him.

“My God, Atlas. You’re just making everything more confusing!” Amber complained.

He’s frustrated right now, he wants to get out of here but he knows that his siblings won’t let him.

He took a deep breath. “I got drunk yesterday and I did something embarrassing.”

“What did you do?” August pride.

“I sent him a message saying I missed him—don’t get me wrong. I was drunk, okay? I couldn’t control myself and just today I figured out what I did and I feel like I want to be an Alien.”

His siblings stared at him.

Stared. Stared and stared. Dumbfounded. Mouths half open and eyes wide. They were shocked.

“What?” Atlas asked the three. “Come on, talk.”

Amber blinked and blinked. Cleared her throat and looked at her brother and sister.

“Well,” she laughed a little. “Did I hear it right? You said…him?” She lifted a brow.

Atlas frowned and looked at his siblings one by one.

“I think we heard it wrong,” August laughed softly, glancing at Artemis. “I think he said ‘her’.”

“Yeah, he said ‘him.’ It’s really clear. He said it.”

Atlas realized. His head spun and then boom. He was on the floor, messing up his hair from another embarrassment.

“Dumb, dumb, dumb shit! Fuuucck!” He stood up. “I can’t do this. This embarrassment is too much for me.” He looked up. “Oh, heavenly God. Why did you dump embarrassment on me all at once?!” He shouted.

He was about to leave his room but August grabbed him before he could.

“And where are you going?”

“Somewhere. I need fresh air,” he said. His face turned red. “It’s too much, I can’t face you guys.” He turned his back but August grabbed him again.

“We’re not done yet,” August pushed him back inside and sat him on the bed.

They were not towering over him.

They were just staring down at him, and he was fighting the feeling of nausea. This embarrassment made him feel nauseous. His face turned scarlet, and his body felt hot.

After a moment, Artemis said, “You’re gay.”

It wasn’t a question. It was a statement.

“Fuck? No!” He jerked and stood up. “What the hell, Artemis? I’m not gay, okay?”

“You know, you can tell us the truth—”

“It is the truth.”

No way. He’s not gay.

“You have many numbers in your contact list, but why did you text him?” Amber asked, raising an eyebrow.

They were interrogating him.

“I don’t know! I-I just… you know—I was out of control? I don’t know!”

He grabbed his bag and stomped out of his room but stopped midway when his brother asked.

“Do you like him?” In a serious tone.

He mechanically faced his brother. “What?”

“I said, do you like him?”

He went silent. His siblings didn’t talk either. The silence was deafening. He hoped his sister would intervene.

“No…?”

He was surprised by the question mark at the end. He wasn’t sure.

He didn’t know. He didn’t know what to say, and he didn’t know what he felt toward Race. He couldn’t name it.

“Oh, shit.” August clapped his hand to his mouth. “You’re gay—”

He rolled his eyes. “I said ‘no.’”

“You know, it’s fine to be gay, okay? Look at me, I don’t care about the gender as long as my dick is buried in their holes.” August burst into laughter. “I don’t care about the gender, I care about their holes,” August added.

“Yuck,” Amber and Artemis cringed.

“You’re totally useless, August.” Atlas shook his head.

“Tell me, what’s his name,” Amber said, her smile wide.

“Bring him here,” Artemis added.

He stood still.

Uh, no way. He won’t put Race in danger.

Race is totally his family’s enemy. For his family, Race is the son of their enemy, and his parents won’t let Race live.

“Not gonna happen,” he walked out.

“What? Why?” His siblings walked after him, throwing questions at him.

“I’m sure Mom and Dad will support you, just like we support you—”

“Not everyone is like you, Artemis.” He said. “And I already said it, ‘I’m not gay.’”

He was sure of it.

“There’s nothing wrong with liking a man, Atlas,” Amber said.

“Is he handsome?” Artemis asked when they reached the garage.

“Handsome?” He faced his siblings. “Handsome is not the right word for him. No words can describe him.” He said.

“Oh, you really like—”

“I hate you, August,” he cut August off.

August countered with a shrug. “And you’re worse for denying your feelings for him.”

“Worse is not a word.”

August just shrugged his shoulders. “It sounds like a word to me.”

Atlas raised an eyebrow at August.

“Hey, don’t look at me like that. I know you are freaking smart and shit, but I know words. Worse is a word—just basic English.”

“You’re the worst.”

“Wait, I have a suggestion for you,” August grinned at him. “Bring him to the nearest hotel and fuck his hole until he collapses, and then leave him alone when he’s asleep—fuck.” August hissed after Atlas threw his sneaker at his brother’s face.

“Thank you for catching, brother.” He picked up his shoe and put it back on before getting into his car.

“Hey! That is just my suggestion when you don’t like that boy, Atlas! If you like that boy then keep him, moron!” He heard his brother shout as he drove away.

He knew that he had already decided not to go to Uni, but here he was, tiptoeing and looking around like a thief afraid that a cop would see him.

He looked left and right before he tiptoed again.

He was praying that he and Race wouldn’t cross paths. He thought he might die if that happened. Atlas couldn’t face Race now, he was ashamed and couldn’t stomach his own stupidity.

He tiptoed and, when he didn’t see Race around, he ran and then hid.

Tiptoe, look around, run, and hide.

That’s what he was doing right now. Some students were watching him and maybe they thought that Atlas was not a normal person and they should avoid him because right now, he was not freaking normal.

Who the hell wants to face Race after what happened?! Some of his genius neurons said ‘stay away from the mess’ and ‘stop doing embarrassing things!’.

He’d try that.

He thought that his genius self was not in the right state or maybe his genius self was sleeping and he needed it to wake up.

Tiptoe. Tiptoe. Look around then sigh and run—

“What are you doing?”

Atlas jumped back like a scared kitten caught stealing food.

He rubbed his palm on his chest. His heart was throbbing fast. Stop. Fast again.

Damn.

“W-What—w-what are you doing… here?” He looked around before trying to calm himself.

“This is where I study.”

Yeah, stupid me for asking that freaking question.

Atlas tried to laugh, “yeah…” He couldn’t meet Race’s stare. “Yeah. I know.”

They fell silent. Atlas kept telling himself not to gaze at Race. He thought that he was turning scarlet and was afraid that Race might see it.

Atlas cleared his throat. “I-I should go. I have… you know—class,” he laughed. It was fake.

In his peripheral vision, he saw Race nod his head. “Uh-huh.”

“Yeah, uh-huh.”

Atlas didn’t realize that he had just mocked Race.

He should leave right now or maybe run just to get out of here. He couldn’t take his embarrassment anymore, he felt like his body was betraying him.

“Are you okay?”

He snapped his head towards Race, who was staring at him—worried.

Yeah, he’s just hallucinating. Why would Race worry about him?

“Me? Of—of course! I’m fine! I’m good, really. I’m fine.”

Race’s eyes narrowed. “Do you realize that you just repeated ‘fine’?”

No. “Yes.” Liar.

Race’s stare was really intense. He needed to avert his eyes because he couldn’t meet Race’s gaze.

“Hangover?”

“No. I’m good.”

“Did you take meds?”

“Yeah.” Lie. He never took his meds.

“Did you sleep well?”

“Yeah.”

“Why are you tiptoeing, Atlas, like you’re hiding from someone and you seem like a thief?”

“Yeah.”

Oh. He realized it was the wrong answer.

Race’s gaze narrowed at him, one brow cocked, and Race looked at him like he was a weirdo.

“And you’re spacing out,” Race commented.

He just smiled and was about to turn his back and run when Race spoke.

“Oh, I think I know.”

Atlas slowly faced Race, who was now smiling widely at him.

God. He’s enjoying this.

“You know what?”

Please, don’t bring up what happened yesterday because I might die because of it.

“You forgot?” Race raised an eyebrow.

Atlas laughed, “yeah! Sorry, I forgot.” It was really a fake laugh.

“You want me to remind you what you did yesterday?” Race cocked his brows and wiggled them.

Jesus, this man is trying to provoke him and it’s working.

“I gotta go—”

“You sure you don’t want to hear it?”

Fuck. This man is annoying.

“I’m afraid I won’t love to hear it.”

“Oh, really? You don’t want to hear that you just sent me a message saying that you are crazy for missing me, and when I called you, you kept on talking that you missed me, and you’ve been thinking of me these past few days, and I can’t get out of your system, and your heart is heavy because you carry that feeling for how many days. And, oh, you told me you like me and you find me handsome.”

I think this is the time to transform into a potato.

Jesus, why does this man keep telling me this information just to see my reaction?! My hands trembled and I really wanted to die right now.

How to transform into a potato? Or maybe I’ll fly to Mars and be an alien.

“Jesus, shut up,” Atlas hissed and covered his face with his calloused hands. He knew that his face had turned red.

Potatoes don’t blush.

He promised that he wouldn’t do this again in his lifetime. He wouldn’t let his genius self be ashamed again.

“You think I’m handsome.”

“I think you’re delusional.”

Race laughed, and oh, he was caught off guard because of that laugh.

He wanted to hear it again and again. He didn’t think that laugh could be music.

“You’re attracted to me.”

Yeah, not gonna lie. That’s true, but I won’t admit it.

“You’re being delusional again,” he glared at Race. “Let me work on your delusional state, Race. Delusions are really a serious case of illness, and when it becomes severe, it might kill you.”

“Oh, you bet.” Race smirked. “I gotta go, Atlas.” Race turned his back on him and started walking, but he stopped suddenly.

Atlas’s brows rose as he stared at the man.

“Do you mean what you said yesterday?” Race lifted his brow. “The ‘I missed you’ part?”

Atlas, suddenly startled, felt his chest throbbing.

Why did he ask so suddenly?

Yes. I missed you these past few days, you stuck in my mind and my system, whatever I do, whenever I go you always stay in my mind. You are at fault for it. That’s why I drunk because I can’t find an explanation why you stay in my mind and why I felt this feeling of missing you and I know that I am not gay and you are just my friend but when you are around my heart is throbbing and I have this strange feeling in my body that I only felt in you. You are so different but I can’t risk it. I feel alive when you are around and I want you to be around and in my sight. You feel me alive and yet I am afraid of this feeling towards you. This is not normal and this is new to me and I am afraid to risk it and I don’t want to scare you about my feelings.

“No.” Was all he said.

His mind is working and constructing words but they stay on his mind.

Race expression changes. Shoulder falls but his smile is still there. “I knew it,” he shrugged. “You were drunk and not in your right mind. You have no control over yourself and you don’t know what you ’re doing. I knew you didn’t mean it. Thank you for telling me.” He winks and then walks out.

He left dumbfounded.

Sorry, I am afraid that this feeling is something else. That this feeling is not just for a friend.

I am afraid that I want you as my lover and not just as your best friend, Race.

CHAPTER 18

He didn’t see Race after that.

They did not lunch together nor go to the library nor go home together.

Iniiwasan niya rin si Race dahil sa kahihiyan na ginawa niya, ayaw pa niyang makita si Race dahil pakiramdam niya ang magiging cause of death niya ay dahil hindi niya nakayanan ang hiyang nararamdaman niya.

But still, he misses Race kahit pa ilang oras pa lang niya itong hindi nakita.

He found himself looking for Race on campus. He went to the library but didn’t find Race there. He next went to the cafeteria but didn’t see Race either. After his class, he waited outside of Race’s last class, but his classmates told him that Race had left early. He waited at the gate, hoping that Race would show up, but he didn’t.

He came to a conclusion:

Race is avoiding him. He didn’t know why, but he guessed that it was because of what he had said earlier.

Kinuha niya ang kaniyang cell phone at tinext si Race.

Atlas: Where are you?

No reply.

Atlas: Let’s meet? I wanted to talk to you.

Still no reply.

Atlas: Let’s talk. I have something to tell you.

Three dots showed up but then disappeared, and he received nothing.

Atlas sighed and sent another message.

Atlas: Are you mad?

He’s patiently waiting for Race’s reply.

His heart throbbed when Race saw his message, and seconds later, three dots showed up.

Race: Can’t meet you. I’m busy.

Atlas’s shoulders fell.

Atlas: Are you mad? Did I do something wrong?

Race: No.

Atlas: Then why are you avoiding me?

Race: I am not avoiding you. YOU are avoiding me.

Atlas: I was looking for you earlier, but I didn’t see you around. Your classmates told me that you left early.

Atlas: I believed that you’re avoiding me.

Race: I didn’t. I left early because I had something to do.

Atlas: What is that? Care to tell me?

Race: I’d rather not.

Atlas: Are you busy?

Race: Yeah. Something’s come up.

Atlas: Meet me? Let’s talk, just a few minutes.

Race: I have a life too, Atlas. Let’s talk some other time.

Atlas: Okay. I’m sorry.

Atlas: Uhm, see you tomorrow?

Atlas: You’re not going to avoid me tomorrow, right?

Race: I’m not avoiding you. I told you, YOU’RE avoiding me. Not ME.

Atlas: See you, Race.

Atlas: I’m so sorry, again.

Race: See you tomorrow, Atlas.

Atlas shoved his phone into his pocket. He ran his calloused hand over his face and then combed his fingers through his hair.

I hope he’s fine.

---

“Race, put down your phone,” his daddy’s voice echoed. “Who are you texting with?” Isaiah added.

“It’s nothing,” he said and shoved his phone into his jeans pocket.

They were in the living room. His dad and papa were on one side while he and Bridgette were on the other.

The living room went silent. They were all staring at each other, only hearing their breaths.

He didn’t see this coming.

While Race was in the middle of his class, he received a message from his daddy that he had already met Bridgette and they were at their house.

And this is what happened.

“You two look good together,” Hades smiled, breaking the silence.

“She’s my friend,” Race said.

“Yeah… I know that, Bridgette told us too, son. But, time will pass, and you’ll develop feelings for each other and you’ll end up together. Romantic, isn’t it?” Hades added.

Race was not happy about this.

His parents really thought that he and Bridgette were a thing. But he was also thankful because Bridgette told his parents that they were only friends.

“Pa, stop,” he sighed and shook his head.

Hades closed his mouth, and Race was shocked that his papa listened.

He turned to his daddy. “Why did you bring Bridgette here?” he asked.

“She’s your friend, right?” Isaiah glanced at Bridgette.

“Yeah—”

“But you didn’t bring her here? You should bring your friends here, Race, so we’ll know who your friends are,” his daddy cut him off.

He sighed and gazed at Bridgette, who was just staring at his parents, silent and… shocked. Race realized that this was the first time Bridgette had seen his parents. He didn’t tell anyone who his parents were. It’s not that he was ashamed—he was the proudest son to have parents like them—he just didn’t want people to judge them.

“We’re glad that you have a friend, son,” Hades smiled and put his arm around his daddy’s shoulder.

“I and your daddy thought that you stay away from people and you isolate yourself in your bubble. You can’t blame us for being excited to meet your friends, son.”

He stared at his papa, who was smiling at him.

“I have friends, Pa—”

“The one you’re texting earlier, is he or she your friend too?”

His lips parted. “Um, yeah…”

Hades’s face lit up. “Great! Bring her here, then. Your daddy and I will cook—”

“It’s him, Pa,” he corrected and waited for his parents’ reaction.

Hades suddenly stopped and looked at his lover. They stared at each other and then Hades smiled and clapped his hands together.

“That is even better! Hurray for brotherhood!” His papa really shouted.

“Bridge?”

Bridgette flinched when Isaiah called her.

“Yes, Sir?”

“Don’t call me Sir. Isaiah will do it.”

“Um,” Bridgette looked up to find a word to say.

“Anyways,” Isaiah said. “Stay for dinner, Bridgette. I cooked dinner, I hope you won’t reject me—”

“Uh, sure, I-Isaiah—I mean, Tito Isaiah…”

Isaiah laughed, and Race rolled his eyes.

“Dad, Bridgette’s parents are really strict. She has a curfew. Her parents won’t let her go out at night, so… it’s a bad idea to suggest she stays for dinner.” Race looked at Bridgette.

“Yeah, he’s right, Mr. Monteverde and Mr. Servantes. As much as I’d like to stay for dinner, my parents will have to search and rescue me if I don’t get home by the time they give me. Sorry, I can’t stay for dinner.”

There was nothing wrong with what they both said, but Race’s parents had huge smiles on their faces, grinning from ear to ear.

“Aw, my son really knows you, Bridgette, doesn’t he?” Isaiah actually laughed.

“We’re friends, Tito Isaiah—”

“Yeah, I know,” Isaiah shook his head. “But it’s so sweet, isn’t it? My son knows that your parents are strict and that you have a curfew. Does that mean Race has already met your family, Bridge?”

Race and Bridgette looked at each other before Race answered his father.

“Sorry to disappoint you, Dad, but I haven’t met her family. She just told me about her parents and that she has a curfew.”

Bridgette nodded in agreement.

Hades chuckled, and Isaiah elbowed him.

“You are very delusional, babe. Don’t jump to conclusions, okay? Let’s hear them first.”

Isaiah rolled his eyes and threw a death glare towards Hades.

“I am just asking them, it’s not delusions, Hades.”

Isaiah called Hades by his name; it means Hades is in danger. Isaiah is mad, and Hades will sleep on the floor, and there’s no touching.

It’s a punishment for provoking Isaiah.

Hades smiled and quickly tried to appease Isaiah. “Babe—”

“By the way, Bridgette, how did you meet my son?”

Isaiah ignored Hades the whole time. Their conversation lasted long and revolved around Bridgette and Race. His parents wouldn’t stop asking if they were really just friends or if there was something more.

Especially his Daddy—Isaiah, who kept pushing the two together. He wouldn’t listen to what Race said and couldn’t understand that Race and Bridgette were just friends.

Bridgette didn’t stay late either. She said goodbye to Race’s parents.

Isaiah looked at him. “Be a gentleman, son. Escort Bridgette home—”

“Huwag na po,” Bridgette smiled, “nandiyan na rin naman po ang sundo ko.”

Isaiah extended his hands and reached for a hug from Bridgette. “Next time you come here, you two should be in a relationship. I know you’ll end up together, just don’t take too long.”

Bridgette couldn’t help but laugh—a fake laugh. Bridgette couldn’t tell them that she liked someone else; she saw Race as a brother. She liked someone, and that was Atlas—Race’s best friend.

Bridgette next approached Hades.

“Take care, Bridgette,” Hades hugged Bridgette and whispered. “Tell me who he’s dating.”

“Yes po,” Bridgette whispered back. “But I know he’s not dating anyone.”

Hades smiled at her and nodded; they just had a secret agreement.

“Let’s go, Bridge,” Race called. “Your parents must be worried about you now.”

Isaiah cocked his eyebrow at what he just heard. “See? My baby is sweet, you two are really good toge—” he stopped talking when Hades claimed his lips and devoted his mouth to him.

“Let my baby bubu explore, let’s not pressure him into a relationship. If our son said they are just friends, then that’s fine. Maybe our baby bubu has someone in his heart already?” Hades tilted his head towards Race.

“Still,” Isaiah said.

Bridgette said her goodbyes but stopped when Isaiah spoke again.

“Wait,” they all turned to face Isaiah. “Race’s birthday is coming up; you can come with us, Bridgette. We have a simple celebration for his birthday. You should come and celebrate with us!”

Race sighed in defeat. His dad wouldn’t stop.

Bridgette looked at Race, then at Isaiah, “It’s three weeks from now, right?”

Isaiah nodded. “He doesn’t like parties—”

“He hates it when he’s in a crowd. He prefers to be with his family. He also prefers a simple celebration.”

Isaiah’s grin widened. “I knew it! You know my son very well! I like you, Bridgette. I’ll give my son to yo—”

“Dad.”

“Isaiah.”

Hades and Race said in unison.

Isaiah just looked at them with an apologetic look and smiled.

“Okay, that’s enough for tonight. Your family is waiting for you, Bridgette.”

“And you, babe. I need you in our room, we have something to discuss.”

Bridgette nodded and smiled before she and Race left the house. Race escorted her to her car.

“I’m sorry,” Bridgette said. “I didn’t know this would happen—”

“It’s not your fault,” Race cut her off, narrowing his eyes at Bridgette. “I just want to ask, why do my parents know you? I didn’t show them any pictures of you.”

Bridgette sighed and her shoulders slumped. “I was outside the university, just talking with a classmate, and they were asking me about you,” Bridgette rolled her eyes and continued. “I told them some basic information about you, and then your parents showed up, asked my name, and when they heard it, Tito Isaiah smiled and invited me to come with them to your house to wait for you.”

Race nodded. He thought that maybe his parents tried to visit him but ended up meeting Bridgette.

“I d-didn’t know that your parents… are—”

“A gay couple,” Race finished. He nodded thrice and then looked away.

“Why didn’t you tell me? I am your friend, Race, but I know nothing about you! I had no idea about your parents, and I was shocked when I saw them and when they told me they are your parents,” Bridgette hissed. “Are you ashamed of it?” She whispered so no one could hear.

Race snapped his head towards Bridgette and narrowed his eyes. They became dark and aggressive, almost mad.

“Ashamed? Why would I feel ashamed? It doesn’t mean that just because I kept my parents a secret, I am ashamed, Bridgette. I don’t want people to hate them and look at them with disgust, okay? I would tell the world that they are my parents because I am proud to be their son. If the world weren’t cruel, my parents wouldn’t live in fear of anyone’s thoughts.”

Race’s chest heaved after that, his heart heavy. He immediately looked away and stepped back.

“Race, I can be all ears. I will listen to your rants—”

“Bridgette,” his voice was firm. “Good night.” He turned his back, every step heavy like his heart.

Bridgette called him, but he pretended not to hear her. He walked straight into the house and suddenly stopped when he saw his daddy.

“Let’s talk,” Isaiah said softly, walking first. Race didn’t know why his father wanted to talk but still followed him.

He felt eyes on him from afar. Race looked up and saw his Papa on the staircase, watching them as they entered the dining hall. Before he finally got into the dining hall, his Papa nodded at him.

Race’s pace slowed when they were inside. Isaiah sat at the end of the table while Race stood close to his father.

“Dad—”

“I’m so sorry…”

Silence was deafening. They stared at each other.

Race got his eyes and eyebrows from his father while his lips and the rest he got from his mother.

“I’m sorry. I was an asshole earlier. I kept pushing you towards Bridgette even though I know you don’t like it. I know you’re upset with me—”

“Upset? Dad, what makes you think that?” His brows lifted.

“You are my son, Race. I have taken care of you since your mother gave birth to you. I know you well, son…”

Race averted his gaze.

“You looked at me like you hated me because I kept pushing you even though you didn’t like it. I’m so sorry for my behavior, I know I shouldn’t have acted like that.”

His attention snapped back to his father. He wanted to tell his father it was all right and that he didn’t have to apologize, but his father didn’t give him a chance.

“I acted immaturely,” Isaiah laughed, head falling back. “I watched you earlier and every time you looked at me, it was full of hate, and I know you were upset. I am sorry, son. I-I…” Isaiah gulped, his eyes restless like he was searching for the right words. He suddenly stared at the vase on the dining table like it held answers.

Race was worried.

He walked slowly to his father and placed his hands on his father’s shoulders.

“I-I’m just… I’m—happy that you have a friend, and it’s so different for us to see that you have finally found a friend. When you were a seven-year-old boy, you hated socializing or making friends with your peers. Everyone invited you to join them and play, but you just ignored them like you didn’t see them. I was worried that you might grow up like that, isolating yourself and distancing yourself from people.”

Race squeezed his eyes tightly, hating that his father’s voice broke when he spoke.

“I never saw you interacting with someone until now. I-I am very happy to know that you finally have a friend… So, I acted like that earlier. I acted like a child and not like your father. I’m sorry… son, forgive me.”

Race couldn’t take it anymore. He hugged his father and squeezed Isaiah tightly like he didn’t want to let go.

His father was right, he was avoiding people. He kept his distance, had some acquaintances, but didn’t want to attach himself to them. He was afraid, really afraid.

It was his nature to avoid people, to distance himself from them because it made him worry less.

He never told anyone his reason for keeping his distance and always avoiding people. He kept that reason to himself and promised never to tell anyone about it.

When people got too close to him and he got attached to them, he would distance himself and sometimes turn his back on them because of his phobia.

“I’m not upset—”

“Because you’re just mad,” his father corrected, and Race shook his head.

Race sat in the chair beside his father.

“Maybe I am mad. I don’t know what to call this feeling. I just didn’t like what you said, Dad. I wanted you to stop earlier, but you were unstoppable.”

“You are upset.” His daddy nodded his head. “I-I will never do that again… never. I promise to be more aware of you.”

He smiled, the heaviness in his heart earlier disappearing because of this talk. It made him happy that he and his dad were really close. He could tell all his secrets to his daddy—to his papa too.

“I promise to be a good father to you, Hurace, just like I promised you when your mom gave birth to you. I have flaws too and I’m not a perfect dad, but I’ll do my best for you.”

His dad stood up and planted a kiss on his forehead. “I gotta go, your papa is waiting for me upstairs.”

Race nodded and smiled. “Good night, Dad. Kiss Papa for me and tell him I love him.”

Race knew that his papa talked about this with his daddy. He thought he already knew why his parents talked earlier. Maybe, his Papa Hades called out Daddy Isaiah for his behavior earlier.

Race remained in his seat, his head falling as he took a deep breath.

Suddenly, his phone vibrated in his pocket. When he saw Atlas’s message, he was shocked to find that Atlas had flooded him with messages.

Atlas started sending messages to him when they were in the living room, and because his focus was on his father, he didn’t notice that his phone was vibrating.

Atlas: Text me when you’re done with your business.

Atlas: Are you done?

Atlas: Race, you can tell me what’s happening. I am your best friend. Just a reminder in case you forgot that part.

Atlas: Are you done?

Atlas: How’s everything going? Are you alright?

Atlas: I am worried. Text me immediately to let me know you’re not dead and you’re breathing fine.

Atlas: Race, what happened? Are you alright? Tell me what happened.

Atlas: Are you mad at me? Upset?

Atlas: What did I do wrong? Tell me, I can’t eat well.

Atlas: We should talk tomorrow. When you’re not dead right now.

Atlas: God, Race, let my brain relax for a meantime. I can’t stop thinking about you.

Atlas: You okay? How are you? Are you mad? Are you upset? What did I do wrong? Did I say or do something that made you mad at me? Tell me what to do and I’ll do it.

Atlas: God knows I miss you a lot.

Atlas: I have something to tell you.

Race’s heart pounded in his ears. He felt like he was floating but was still sitting in the chair.

His brain wasn’t functioning well, couldn’t structure a word. His brain was a mess, so was his heart.

He felt his hands trembling, his palms wet with sweat. Even though the air conditioning was on, he was sweating.

His heart might explode because of what he felt right now. It was so amazingly beautiful, and he liked the feeling; it made him feel good and happy.

Race’s trembling fingers typed a reply.

Race: I’m good, nothing happened, and I am alive. Things went well.

Race: See you soon, Atlas.

SIDE STORY (01)

Hades & Isaiah

“Promise me that you won’t do it again,” Hades steady voice echoed in their room when he enters.

He sighed. “I can’t keep my mouth shout.” He admitted and started walk slowly towards Hades. “I-I’m just glad to know that my son has a friend and I an very excited to meet her.” He added as he sat in the bed.

Hades remain where he is—sitting in the bed while leaning in the headboard.

“I know it’s very weird that our son has finally find a friend and it’s a girl—” Hades stared at him. “I also understand that you, Isaiah and I can’t blame you that you are very enthusiast to meet his friend—” Hades paused. “But, what you’ve did earlier is really inappropriate.”

Hades is scolding him like a child and Isaiah knows deep inside him that he really deserve this because what he’ve done earlier is really a bad thing.

He has many ‘what if’s’ when Hades made him realized his mistakes.

1. What if my son will mad at me?

2. What if my son will stay away from me?

3. What if my son will hate me because I’m pushing to his limits. What will I do if that’s will happen?

4. What if he won’t treat me like his father because he’s mad at me?

5. What if our relationship will be destroyed because of my inappropriate manner?

So on and so forth.

“Babe,” soft fingers touches his cheeks. “Are you listening to me?”

He meet Hades’s eyes and to his shocked, he mirrored the worried and sympathy in Hades’s eyes.

When he did not respond, Hades sighed and take his arms to bring it to his mouth and kissed it.

“What are you thinking?” Hades kisses his hands softly.

Isaiah eyes soften as he watched his lover and answered, “am I a good father?”

Pain. That’s what he see in Hades’s eyes.

“Am I a good father to my son—”

“No.” Hades protested immediately.

“I-I think I…failed to be a good father of Race,” Isaiah chest heaved as he takes a deep breath. “I…I saw my son’y reaction. He was mad at me, I knew it even though he won’t tell me. I know he’s irritated because I kept on pushing his limits and I didn’t listen to him. I always insisted that him and Bridgette will be a good lover in the future, and I can see it in my son’s eyes. He’s irritated at me, he wanted me to stop talking but he can’t because he still respects me as his father. I failed. I failed. I failed. I should listen to him. I’m not a good father.”

“Hey, hey,” Hades cups his face, their eyes locked. “You did not fail—”

“No. I failed. I acted like an immature father who doesn’t know his own child—his own flesh—his own blood.” Isaiah countered.

Hades nodded his head and he leans in. Their forehead touched and they both close their eyes as they inhale themselves.

“You did not fail. You didn’t. You are the best father,” a pause. “But I won’t lie either that you also a mistakes there. You are not perfect, you’ll make mistakes but it doesn’t mean that you failed to be his father because you are not. Race knows that you are the best and you are the only father he needs. So, don’t think that you failed since you did not.”

Isaiah really tried not to cry, his eyes is hot and he felt his tears wants to stream but he choose to stop it.

He inhale through his nose and exhale through his nose and smiled.

“Thank you,” he whispered.

“God knows how much I love you.” Hades whispers back as their lips met and they both shared the same breathe.

They break from the kiss to inhale some air. Hades stared at him and asked, “what happened to you talk with Race?”

“I say sorry and he forgive me. I asked for his forgiveness but he said he don’t have to forgive me because I did nothing wrong,” Isaiah met Hades’s eyes. “My son understand me.” He whispers.

“He always understand you,” said Hades.

“His birthday is near.” He changed the topic.

Hades reaches him and they both fell in the bed. Hades hugged him tight like he don’t want to let go—and good God, Isaiah doesn’t want to let go too. He want to hold Hades forever. He always want Hades’s warmth skin in his body. He wants to hear Hades breath and want to see those beautiful eyes.

“It’s Trixie’s 20th death anniversary too.” Hade reminded him—no trace of jealousy.

“Hurace’s 20th birthday and Trixie’s 20th death anniversary.” He whispered to himself.

A moment of silence, Isaiah’s just staring from nowhere and Hades just staring at him and waiting him patiently.

Then suddenly, Isaiah slowly snaps his heads to Hades. “Do you think she’s mad at me because I am not a good father to our child?”

They stared for a seconds. When he realized something, he want to take back what he’ve asked ti Hades. It is wrong to us his partner about the biological mother of Race.

Isaiah thinks that he is stupid for asking Hades about it. He didn’t think about Hades reaction or what would he feel.

He was about to take it back but Hades eyes soften and smiles slowly.

“She is proud of you,” Hades gently touched Isaiah’s cheek. “Wherever she is now, I know she is proud of you. Isaiah, you did not abandon Race, you did not let Race to grew alone. Trixie is proud of who are you right now.”

Isaiah dips his head and shook it.

He don’t know what to think. For past years, he didn’t think about this. This is the first time that he questioned himself as a father if he really was a good father of his child. After what he’ve did earlier, he doesn’t know what to do.

“Is this really bothering you?” Hades whispers.

“I can’t help it,” he admitted.

He heard Hades sighed of understanding, soft lips touch is neck and Hades murmurs against his bare neck.

“I hope I can vanish what’s bothering you,” hot. That what Isaiah think. “But, I know it won’t ease your pain right now.” Hades added and break away from Isaiah.

Isaiah wants to pull Hades back, he still want to feel Hades lips again in his skin. He really loves the sensation that Hades gives him. It makes him alive.

“And I won’t make love with you when you are bothered and hurt. I know you are not in the good mood right now,”

It makes his heart warm. He really love this man.

“Even though you will like it but I know that pain will remain.“ Hades added and Isaiah agreed.

He is bothered and he doesn’t want to make love with Hades when his mind is full of questions. He really bothered and can’t concentrate. He wanted to go to his son’s room and sleep there just to ease his pain and for the peace of his mind.

Even though his son forgives him but he still bothered to the idea that his son might mad at him.

“Go,” Hades caress his hair.

“What?” Eyebrow shot. “Are you kicking me in my own room, Hades?” Cross his arms against his chest.

“No, babe,” Hades chuckled and pulled him to his arms. “I know what you’re thinking,” said Hades. “You wanted to go to our son’s room and sleep there. You wanted to be with our son because it will give you peace.”

His heart throbbed. “Do you mind?” Isaiah asked.

Hades shakes his head immediately. “No. I won’t mind. I know you misses you son, Isaiah.”

“Do you think he will let me sleep with him? He’s turning twenty two weeks from now—”

“Race loves you and he won’t kick you out of his room,” Hades cuts him off and bring his lips to Isaiah. “Go, babe. Go, before I change my mind.” Hades smiled wickedly.

Isaiah grins and shakes his head. Before he leave, he drops a kiss to his lover before he walk to Race’s room.

He’s nervous. He feel the nauseas.

I hope my son is awake.

He knocked the door three times. No one answered and I makes him nauseous. His hands is trembling when his son didn’t open the door.

God. Help me.

He knocked again.

Knocked. No one answered and nervousness grows up in his system.

Knocked. Knocked. Still no answers. He wanted to back out and just go back to their room. He thinks that his son is mad at him and expecting him to come so he didn’t open the door. Or maybe is son is really, really, really mad at him to face him.

He bounce his feet to the ground. He’s debating is he backs out or to wait or knocked again.

Isaiah clenched his fist ready to knocked again but he drop his fist so fast and turned around to leave but the door cracked open and he goes still in his place.

His throat bobbed.

“Dad?”

God, my son.

Isaiah slowly face his son like a machine.

Smile slowly—awkwardly.

“Hey!” He greet back.

“Do you need something?” Race asked and stared. “Do you…want to talk to me?” Race paraphrased it.

“No,” he replied. “What makes you to open the door so late?” He asked.

Race scratched the back of his neck before he answered. “I’m sorry…I bathed…”

Isaiah run his gaze to his son’s hair then nodded.

It gives him relief. He really though that his son is mad at him so Race didn’t open his door.

“Dad?”

Race called him when he space out.

“Yeah?”

Race tilted his head to other side. “You didn’t come here to talk with me, am I right?” Isaiah averted his gaze.

“Right,” he admitted.

How should he tell Race that he wants to sleep here? It feels like he becomes teenager again.

“Dad?” His son called him again.

“Okay,” he breathe. “I came here to sleep here because I can’t sleep thinking that you might still mad at me and you won’t forgive me of what I’ve did earlier and you will hate me forever because I pushed you to your limits.”

There. He finally said it.

Race, though seems shocked. He blinks and blinks. Lips parted and eyes wide open.

“Dad—y-you’re—I’m not mad…no, I am not mad at you. Why would you think about that? There nothing to forgive because I’m not mad at you nor upset.”

They fell silent, staring at each other. No one speak, they just listening to each other’s breathe.

Okay, I’ll go back to our room. It seems that my son won’t let me—

“Come,” Race step aside to give him room.

His heart might explode because of happiness.

“Is it fine with you, dad to sleep here? Are you comfortable?” Race asked as he arrange his bed.

Isaiah roamed his eyes to his son’s room like it his first time to see this even though he was there when his son decorate his own room.

Isaiah nearly cried when he’s watching his 7 years old son decorating his own room for the first time. He really don’t want Race to have an own room because he really want to have his child beside him, but his son insisted and at the young age he is matured enough to stand on his own feet.

Isaiah didn’t forget the first night of Race here in his room. He really slept here because he can’t sleep in their room with Race on his side. It is really hard for Isaiah to let his son to be independent, it’s hard for him to let his child slipped to his hands. But also, he wanted Race to live his life into fully because he knows he can’t hold his son’s hand forever.

Just like Race, Isaiah also has a fear of losing Race in his life.

He didn’t want to chain his son to keep Race safe. Even if it is hard for him to watched his son as he fly high, even it is dangerous, he still watches his son.

“Dad?”

He break through his reverie and he’s back to the reality. Race is done to his bed and now he’s sitting on the other side.

“I’m going to sleep. I have school tomorrow,”

Isaiah nodded to his son and he as Race lay down.

“Aren’t you going to sleep, dad?” Race asked.

Ah, it is so nostalgic to sleep here in my son’s room.

Isaiah misses this. He really miss to sleep beside his son. He might cry because of the heaviness in his chest but he stopped it.

Isaiah lay down beside his son and he close his eyes. “God, I really missed this.” He whispered.

“Me too.” Race whispered.

A smile slipped in Isaiah’s lips and silence fell between them.

The door cracked open and later he felt that someone joins in the bed.

“I’ll sleep here too.” Hades voice echoed. “Good night, my dearest family. ” Hades said.

Isaiah smiled.

He is on the other side, Race in the middle and Race on the opposite side of the bed.

“Good night, dad. Good night, papa.” Race whispered.

Isaiah feel contented.

CHAPTER 19

“I’ll quit,” the room went silent. “I can’t do this anymore.” Atlas added and everyone is shocked, shacking their heads like they are disappointed.

“Atlas,” his father said in a warning voice.

He gaze his father who’s glaring at him-mad and disappointed.

He’s hurt to see his family’s eyes full of disappointments, but he doesn’t care. All he wanted is to get rid of his job, he doesn’t want this at all.

“What makes you want to quit, Atlas?” His mother’s voice fills the room that makes the hair on the back of his neck stand.

He face his mother-seriously staring at him with a suspicious look.

“I don’t want this job anymore,” he said. “I am tired of killing people. I am not a murderer-”

“You are,” his mother cuts him off. “Have you ever forgotten how many lives you killed? How many families lost their mother or their father because you killed them?”

His throat bobbed, fire grows in his system. “You wanted me to kill them. I did it because you told me so!”

His mother arched her brow, “really?”

“Mom, you know from the start that I don’t like this-”

“Is that the reason why you want to quit or their’s other?”

He goes still. He sniffed and looked away.

“Atlas, you know what will happen if I find out the reasons why you want to quit right?”

He’s well aware.

Atlas meet his mother’s eyes. “You’ll find nothing, mom. There’s no other reason why I want quit. I am tired of this and I don’t want to slaughter people.”

His mother stared at him for a minute but Atlas didn’t looked away, he wanted to prove that he’s telling the truth.

Then his mother break the stares and shrugged her shoulder.

“Even I found that you transferred university because of this certain person? I also heard from your siblings that you like someone,”

His eyes snaps to his siblings, glaring at them, but they only shake their heads like they are telling him that they didn’t told their mom about it.

“That’s not true-”

“Then, let me investigate if it’s true. If I find out that you have a lover…” His mother slowly looked at him with no emotions in her eyes-dangerous. “I’ll kill that burden myself. I’ll kill that hindrance myself, son. Remember the rule, Atlas.”

His heart is pounding inside of his ear.

“Once you are in you can’t go out. Whoever the burden or hindrance will get kill. Relationship is no room for this job, you should committed yourself in this job. Since the day you stepped in the Underground, you are married to this job and you can’t let go and quit that easily like a regular job.”

His mother’s eyes narrowed at him-her bloodshot eyes and its look dangerous. Dangerous to stare.

He knows that his mother didn’t lie. He already witnessed some of the Underground employee’s lover killed because the Underground thinks that it’s just a hindrance and burden of their job.

Once you are in, you are already married to this job.

He thinks of Race, his safety. If his mother find out that he likes someone and that is a man, for sure his mother will get mad and probably kill Race, but he won’t let his mother do it.

Yes, he likes Race. He admitted it the other day. He admitted to himself that what he feels toward Race is not just for a friend. The strange feelings he felt when Race is around is not just a feeling of excitement when you saw your friend but the excitement when you saw the one you like.

He loves Race’s attention, Race’s warmth skin, Race’s presence and all. He loves all of Race. He loves what he feels when Race is round.

He can’t deny his feeling, every time he’ll deny it, it just grow bigger. His feeling grow and grow every time.

This is the first time that he felt this toward a man and it makes him alive for a first time. It makes him happy to see Race from the distance. When he sees Race’s smile, his heart won’t stop beating and it goes crazy when Race stared at him.

He wanted to confessed but he’s afraid that Race might stay away from him or disgust him. He don’t want to scare Race, he will take this easy.

Some parts of him want to confess his feelings, he don’t want to hide. He want to express his feelings toward Race but also some part of him was afraid to confess because he thinks of the rejection he might get. Also, he doesn’t want to terrified Race and Race might avoid him.

It is safe to hide his feelings towards Race than to confess. He can’t stand seeing Race avoiding him. Also, if it makes Race safe from his family, then he’ll keep his feelings. He won’t risk Race’s life because of his selfishness.

His family will kill Race if they find out about his feeling for a man. His family won’t hesitate to kill Race and he won’t let it happen. To make Race safe, it is better to keep his feelings and stay away from Race. It is hard but it makes Race safe even though it is hard for him to do it.

His body want Race. His body is looking for Race everyday. He always searching for Race, he always misses that man. He is really attached to Race that makes him want to chain himself in Race. Atlas want to stay beside Race but his job won’t let him.

He wanted to confess his feelings to Race. He wanted Race to he his lover and do whatever they want.

He wanted to go date with Race like a normal people.

He wanted to kiss Race in the public and they won’t mind the people staring at them-with disgust or not. He wanted to tell the world that he like this man.

He wanted to travel with Race.

He wanted to do all the things in Race’s bucket list.

But his family and job makes it hard to do it all. He is chained to this job and he can’t go out. He is stuck.

“If you want your lover to get killed by me, then quit. But if you want your lover to live longer, then stay away from your lover and the world will be in peace.” His mother smiled at him wickedly.

Atlas jaw clenched, his eyes narrowed and it becomes dark. It is his first time to feel this anger toward his mother.

She’s wicked. She’s dangerous.

“Picked wisely, son or it will the end of your lover.” Then his mother stormed out of the room.

After the door shut behind his mother, his knees wobbled. He need to grips the desk for support so his knees won’t give out.

“Atlas-”

“You told her that I like someone-” his voice is hard as rock, eyes were bloodshot. Jaw clenched.

“We didn’t,” Amber soft voice fills the room. “W-We are just talking about the person you like at the kitchen-”

“She heard you-”

“But we didn’t mention who is your crush.” Artemis cuts him off. “We don’t know who is h-she.” Artemis gulped and roamed her eyes around the room.

“What’s your plan?” August asked him, eyes worried.

He squeeze his eyes shut and take a deep breathe. “I’ll stay. If it makes…” Him safe. His unspoken word.

He throw himself in his bed after they leave the board room. He sighed and close his eyes.

He remember what happened the other day when he and Race met. That day he wanted to confess his feeling because he is sure about what he feels but before he’ll do it, his sister called him because the Underground called of a urgent meeting and they got a mission.

He leave Race there. He didn’t have a chance to confess and to express his feelings because of this job. Then he realized after he left that his job is very dangerous and Race’s life is in danger when the Underground find out about this.

To make Race safe, he won’t confess and he just let his feeling slipped away. Maybe after a month or two his feeling will disappear like a bubbles. He’ll stay away from Race, he won’t text nor call Race.

But when he saw Race in the University in that morning, waiting for him at the gate and Race flush his wonderful smiles at him.

And he is doomed.

He realized, it is hard to do it all because he’s in love with Race.

* * * 

“You are not in yourself these past few days,” Race curiously looked over Atlas who didn’t even glance at him when they started walking.

“It’s just…something in my mind,”

“What is it?” He stopped so they can talk properly, but Atlas walk straight , he didn’t bother to stop or to face him.

Something is wrong with him .

It happened after the talk-he doesn’t know if he can call it a talk because the two of them didn’t even talk. Atlas texted him that he want to tell him something, but it didn’t happen since Atlas’s sister called Atlas and he can see the fear in Atlas’s eyes, the tiredness in his eyes. He wanted to asked what happened, but he kept his mouth shut because it might be a family problem so Race didn’t asked.

Then after that, Atlas is in hurry and leave him alone in the café. He’s clueless and…hurt.

Yeah, he doesn’t know why he felt that while watching Atlas leaving him behind without saying a word where he would go or what happened-he’s hurt.

Damn hurt .

“Atlas, what is it?” He asked again then grab Atlas elbow to stop the man.

“It nothing to worry about,” there’s irritation in Atlas’s voice.

Irritate with him?

“What’s wrong? Do you have a problem?” Race almost rolled his eyes because he realized that his question is really nonsense. Of course, he has a problem!

When Atlas remain silent, he sigh, comb his fingers to his hair. “You know,” he accused. “You can tell me your problems, Atlas. I’ll listen. I understand y-”

“ No .“ Atlas cuts him off. Bloodshot eyes narrowed at him.

“Then…I’ll try to understand you-”

“You will not understand-”

“I’ll-”

“You. can’t. understand. me.”

Race fell silent as he stares and stares and stares at Atlas like he’s stranger-like it’s the first time that he met Atlas.

Something is really bothering him. His eyes is tired and Atlas’s hair is mess like he’s been messing is hair. And Atlas can’t look at him straight in his eyes even though Race tried to catches Atlas’s eyes.

Atlas is avoiding him and he needs to know the reason.

“I know that something is bothering you,” said Race, voice is hard. “Tell me, Atlas. Tell me and I’ll listen. If you think I can’t understand you then I’ll try to understand you.” His voice soften.

Atlas stared at him, there’s no emotion in his eyes then suddenly he shut his eyes.

“ No . There’s nothing in hell I would tell you about that,“

“About what?”

Tell me. Tell me. Tell me.

I wanted to know.

Atlas shook his head and started walking again.

“Tell me, Atlas,” he followed behind. “I am your best friend right? I am your best friend and you can trust me-”

“That’s it!” Atlas shouted, pointing his index finger at Race and he startled because of the shout. “That’s the reason why I won’t tell you what’s bothering me!”

Race startles.

Atlas is shouting. Atlas is shouting. He is frustrated and Race can feel it.

“Then tell me,” Race, at least tried his best to remain calm and his voice remain gentle.

“I am just your best friend! “ Atlas steps forward, eating the distance between them. “I am just your fucking best friend!”

It builds more confusions in Race.

“Yes, we are best friend, Atlas! What’s the problem with-”

“See? You won’t understand it! I know you won’t so there’s no way I’ll tell you what’s bothering me when you didn’t even felt what I felt!” Atlas retreats and about to turn his back but Race stop him.

“How can I understand when you won’t even try to make me understand!”

God, now he’s shouting and he’s glad that there are just a few students here and they pay no attention to them, arguing.

Atlas is panting like he’s been running. “No…I won’t,” he begun to shakes his head and retreats again and Race mirrored his walk.

“Tell me. Make me understand. I am your best friend and I-”

“ I like you! “ Atlas exclaimed and his world seems to stop spinning.

He can’t remember how to open his mouth. He can’t remember how to speak like he’s a one year old boy. He can’t move.

Heart beating inside his ears.

Thud. Thud.

His heart went crazy and can’t control it, he can’t tell his body ti calm because it is hard to calm when he just heard it!

“See?” Atlas laugh-pain is with it. “You can’t speak,” shakes his head and looked away. “You won’t understand me, Race. You will never be. I-My mind can’z function correctly because I’ve been thinking this for…days? No. Weeks. Couple of weeks. I’ve been thinking should I confess or not.” Atlas chest heaved as he speak.

Race listen but he lost. He is lost with Atlas’s words. It’s like Atlas’s words is from paradise.

Heart pounding loud as time pass. It’s louder every minutes and it goes crazy when Atlas stared at him with fear and pain in his eyes.

“My mind goes crazy and I can’t think right. I’m debating with myself, Race. If ’ I like you ’ or ’ I am in love with you ’.” Atlas scuff and break the stare. “God! I think I love you , Race and it’s makes me fucking crazy! My mind is a mess and you’re the reason!”

Atlas fully face him and stare at him. Waiting. He’s waiting for him to talk.

Talk . He tell himself. Talk. Say something. Say something, Race.

He open his mouth but can’t.

He can’t speak. He doesn’t know what to say. He’s shocked and confuse and Atlas’s confession made him lost for a words. It’s like Atlas’s confessions makes him a one year old boy who doesn’t know how to speak.

Damn it! Speak, Race! Say something!

Atlas stared. He reflected a fear in Atlas’s eyes. The wariness, the pain is in his eyes.

Damn it! Atlas is waiting for him to speak but he is too stunned to open his mouth.

“See?” Atlas smiled, hurt. “You wouldn’t understand me. Even if you try to understand, you will fail. You don’t like me. You won’t even try to fall for me. You don’t love me. You don’t have even a plan to reciprocate my love for you since it’s just a one sided love. You won’t understand me because you didn’t felt what I felt. You did not love me just like I love you. That’s the difference.

You think it’s easy to tell you this? No. You won’t understand because you did not have a sleepless night because of thinking my feelings for you. You won’t understand me because I am just your best friend and I want more than that. You wouldn’t understand me because you don’t have a plan on falling in love with a man just like I am.“

He’s too stunned. Can’t speak. Can’t open his mouth to say something. To tell him that he’s wrong because he have a sleepless night too because Race is thinking of him and he’s damn crazy because he’s confused why he felt this towards a man instead of a woman.

He wanted to say it a loud but again, he can’t open his mouth.

Atlas look at him straight in his eyes.

Pain, fear. Race wanted that out of Atlas.

“If I were a woman, loving you wouldn’t be a sin.” Atlas whispered and Race breaks into pieces.

Something hits him in his heart like a meteor. He begun to tremble, mind messed.

“If I were I woman, I’d be loving you freely without worrying you and fearing you. But we live like this and met like this.” Atlas added and laugh a little.

He stared Race for a moment and a smile tugs on this lips but it didn’t reach his eyes like Race used to be.

“I guess, my confession scared you. You can’t even talk or move, you were just standing there like a statue. You didn’t blink and you are just staring at me blankly.” He takes a deep breathe through his nose and out to his mouth then shoulder falls. “I guess my love for you scared the hell out of you. I shouldn’t have said it, I saw this coming but I can’t stop myself.”

No. I am not scared. He wanted to say, but can’t say it out loud.

It’s fucking frustrating!

“ I’m sorry… “ Atlas whispered and walks away.

CHAPTER 20

Atlas is avoiding him for a couple week. When Atlas saw him walking towards, the man immediately leave.

Every time, Race found a way to talk to Atlas, but the man avoided him. After Atlas confessed to him, the man started to avoid him. Atlas seemed embarrassed because of his sudden confession.

Even Race, he can’t forget the moment when Atlas shouted that he likes him. It made him stunned and couldn’t talk because of that.

He thinks that the cat got his tongue’s out.

He wanted to speak, but can’t. Race is very shocked that he forgot all letters in the alphabet.

How can he forget it? It his first time that someone confessed to him-specially a man like Atlas. He doesn’t know what to do, his foot is nailed in the ground.

It overwhelms him that Atlas confessed to him. Sometimes, he thinks that Atlas’s just making fun at him or maybe Atlas’s just pranking him or what. He don’t know. He have a second though to believe Atlas or not.

He has so many reasons to not believe at Atlas and his confession.

1. Atlas is handsome and he remembered that he saw Atlas kissing a girl outside a bar, so it is considered that Atlas is still a straight.

2. Atlas is handsome and it is too hard to accept that Atlas likes someone-him. A man. He didn’t see Atlas to like him. He is muscular and he likes girls.

3. Atlas hates Lgbt. Race remembered the last time that Atlas took him into the club and when Atlas saw a gay couple making out he shooed it away and his reaction is something like-disgusted. He doesn’t like what he saw.

And that’s it. The reasons why Atlas is lying or he shouldn’t have to believe that man.

He might be lying; making fun of him; pranking him; or he’s playing with Race.

Even though Race doubt Atlas and his confession, he still feel the happiness in his body. It’s like he won a lotto because of that confession. It makes him happy to hear that Atlas likes him, it awakens the butterflies in his stomach. Sometimes, he prayed that the feeling he felt right now is long lasting because he really like that feeling. It makes him feel alive.

For the first time in his life, he’s excited to go to university just to see Atlas and talk to that man to clarify something.

He can’t sleep well while his head is playing up with him. His mind always show Atlas and his confession.

He close his eyes again, try to sleep and this time he finally sleep but he saw Atlas in his dream.

They are in a titanic ship. They are away from in each other and they are standing on the deck. Facing each other.

“I told you it’s a lie,” Atlas smirked.

Race shook his head, he didn’t believed at what Atlas’s said.

“No. I can see it in your eyes, Atlas. You’re telling the truth-”

Atlas bursts out laughing. “Fools!” His laugh echoed.

It’s a cold night, everyone is inside the ship. Some is preparing for a fireworks show later and some maybe having fun and it’s only them outside.

“I didn’t think that you’ll buy it,” his wicked grins showed up.

“No. You’re lying. I know you’re telling the truth-”

“Fools! Fools! Fools! Why did you believe that I like you?! You’re a guy! Why would I fall in love with a guy? Disgusting!” He laughed.

Race step aback. It’s like something hits his heart and it’s hurt so much.

Why would Atlas said it to him? Why Atlas is lying to him? 2 weeks bygone since Atlas confessed to him and he believed Atlas because Atlas is sincere and when Race looks in Atlas’s eyes he only sees sincerity. Although he was shocked and hard to believed because they both man, yet Atlas brought him to a date.

The last past weeks it gone well. They are happy but today-he can’t accept what happened today.

“No-”

“Gone, Race. Be gone.” And Atlas walks away.

Race dream shift in another time. This time they are in a room but still inside the ship.

“Stop following me! I already told you to gone! I fooled you, Race! I don’t like you and you are disgusting!”

Dream shifted again, they back on the deck. Alone in the dark.

Music fills the ship, it’s loud and the people is shouting and singing along.

“Fool. I don’t like you. Gone.”

He stared at Atlas. Eyes are bloodshot. It’s been a days since he followed Atlas but this time he is tired.

He then saw himself jumping in the railing, below him is the dark ocean, above him is Atlas who’s starring at him and his back hit the cold water.

Race jerked up, seizing for his breath. He clutch his chest and bangs his fist there second time. His heart beating so fast and sweat streaming down his face.

“Shit,” he cursed under his breathe.

“What was that?” He whispered to himself.

Fucking dream.

“It’s just a dream. It’s not true.” He said more on convincing himself to be okay.

There’s no way that he will followed Atlas everywhere and at the end he end up his life since the man he loves broke his heart.

“That’s not true. Dreams are just a product of our mind…” He whispered and slowly lay his back on the bed and closed his eyes.

“Hinding hindi ko hahabulin ang lalaking ’yon. Gagu ba siya?”

This time he sleep and never dream that again.

---

“Seriously, what’s wrong with you?” He asked irritatedly. Race’s been chasing Atlas for two exclusive days.

Yes, Atlas still avoiding him and it frustrate him that the guy he use to be with is avoiding him!

“Stop following me, Race,” Atlas said. Walking straight and didn’t even glance at him.

“What’s wrong with you? Last time you just confessed to me then boom! You’re avoiding me! Eh?”

Race tried to remain clam. He won’t let his anger take over his mind and his taking care of his health also.

Remain calm is the best way to stay healthy.

Atlas wave his hand. “Oh, forget about it.”

“Eh? What do you mean?” Race frowned and stop.

Atlas seems to feel him because Atlas stopped too and face him.

For several days passed it is the first time that Atlas really looked at him in the eyes. Really looked at him.

It’s like Atlas is studying him, every feature in his face. Every angle. And it’s like Atlas is diving in the deep eyes of Race.

“You didn’t understand what did I said to you the last time?” Atlas asked calmly.

Race shook his head. “I always seek for your clarification, yet you always avoiding me.”

“Didn’t I tell you?”

“No,” Race is hesitant to answer. “But I think you said that…we are not alike? That…you like me and I don’t like you?”

Atlas stared at him dumbfounded.

“I’m hurt,” Atlas clutch his chest and he act like he’s hurt then he rolled his eyes. “Really, Race? That’s how you’ll hurt me?”

What’s wrong with this guy? Dinaig pa ang babae, parang may period din si Atlas dahil sa mga kinikilos niya.

“Then enlighten me-”

“You said that ‘we are best friend’-”

“I forgot the part that you said that but that’s true, doesn’t it?”

Parang kulang na lang tadyakan ni Atlas si Race. Atlas is frustrated.

“You said ‘we are best friend’,” Atlas repeated. “Best friend! Best friend, Race!” He show his index and middle finger and bend it like a bunny ears.

Race feel ashamed. He’s really confused.

Atlas turn around and started walking away and Race was about to follow but he remember something from his dream that made him stop.

Geez.

Dreams are not true.

It’s not like I’ll commit suicide if I follow Atlas and he refuse to enlighten me.

“Atlas!” He exclaimed.

The guy stop but did not face him.

“For God’s sake! Stop being a girl and talk to me-”

“A-what?!”

There you go. Atlas finally face him.

“Yes! You acted like a girl on her period, can you just stay calm and just enlighten me so this will be over?”

Atlas make a face. “Race for my fucking sake, stop chasing me like you really really really into me. I’ll assume that you like me and started dreaming of you-”

“Wait,” Race lift his palm to stop Atlas. “You dreamed of me?”

“No-”

“You said-”

“You’re assuming.” Atlas rolled his eyes.

“Please, stop running away and talk with me so no one die-”

Atlas narrowed his eyes on him. Race didn’t use that intense eyes, he always saw Atlas with his gentle and soft eyes.

“Who said someone is dying?” Atlas asked seriously.

“No one-”

“You just said it awhile ago!” Atlas voiced echoed like he’s angry. Thank God they are on a middle of a parking lot, hopefully that no one’s here.

“Oh, that,” Race’s face heat, kahit ang leeg at ang likod ng tenga niya ay biglang uminit. “I-I just have this weird dream, you know?”

“No. I didn’t know-”

Race rolled his eyes but he continue talking. “It’s me and you…I mean-in my dream. Then…in my dream, you confessed to me,”

“Wow, even in your dream I still did confessed my feelings?” Atlas arched his brow. “Then what? I got rejected and you said there that I should enlighten you because you couldn’t understand me?”

This guy is really incarnated from a girl to a guy. Mas malala pa nga ito sa babae.

“No, it’s another way around,” he said softly.

Maybe, not all dream will come true right? I’m maybe tired of thinking about Atlas so that’s why he appeared in my dream.

Habang nakatitig si Atlas kay Race at naghihintay sa sasabihin nito ay tumatakbo naman ang isipan ni Race kung magiging totoo ba ’yong napanaginipan niya o hindi.

“Tell me.” Atlas crossed his arms and waited for him to speak.

“We’re in the ship, it’s dark outside and we’re standing on the deck. We’re distance away from each other,” he stared Atlas for a reaction, but the guy did not show any reaction. Atlas just waited him to continue. “You,” he pointed his index finger to Atlas. “Confessed to me…the other weeks? Then, on that night you said to me,” Race pointed himself. “That…I am a fool to believed you…er that you like me.”

Shit. He can’t continue this. It is hard for him to say this all because it makes him red! His face just turned scarlet and it’s hot here.

He didn’t know what would Atlas say after this but he come up some idea;

1. You’re crazy, Race. Dreams are not true. (Not sure if Atlas will comfort Race, but hard to guess.)

2. Why did you dream of that? I would never said that to you! (As if Atlas will say this.)

3. Why did you dreamed of me? You like me, eh? (No, no, no. Atlas is assuming. Really really really assuming. So maybe this one is eligible.)

4. No, Atlas. I would never said that to you. You’re not a fool. I like you and-(no, no, no. Don’t go there. This is not eligible, this is the least in the list. Atlas would never said this!)

5. Fuck, yeah! You’re a fool! You really believed that I like you? You really dreamed of me? You really like me that much, huh? You’re such a fool, Race for trusting and believing me. (Super eligible. This one should in the top list. 99.99% that Atlas will say this one.)

Race is not ready for the last one, maybe he can’t take it? He don’t know. Atlas never said hurtful words to him ever since they met, so Race will hurt if Atlas said the truth that he is a fool for believing it.

But Atlas said, “what else? Is there something else in your dream?” Atlas asked, eyes narrowed at him and it’s full of curiosity.

Oh, men. Paniguradong kukutyain na naman siya ni Atlas pagkatapos nito.

“Don’t make fun of me after this,”

“I won’t.”

Pinakatitigan ng maigi ni Race si Atlas and to his surprise, he didn’t see any glint of lie in Atlas’s eyes.

Race took a deep breathe. “Then, I followed you everywhere you go because I didn’t believe at what you said that I am a fool and you don’t like me. My dream shift again an this time we’re back in the deck, it’s dark. Then you said to me to be gone, I was hurt in my dream so…I jump from the ship and ocean eat me.”

Actually, Race realize that they talk nonsense. Why would they talk about his dream when he followed Atlas because he just want clarification then they end up talking about his fucking dream?!

“You know that I would never said that to you right?”

Race taken aback. Wow. The second in his list is correct! Atlas really said that but not all!

“Y-Yeah,” Race laugh and comb his hair. “I know. So…I really don’t like to followed you around because we don’t know that my dream will-hey! Where are you going dumbass? Jesus, why did you leave me here?”

Tinalikuran ba naman siya ni Atlas. Timang talaga na lalaki, pagkatapos siyang pinakuwento tungkol sa panaginip niya tapos bigla na lang siyang iniwan?!

“Atlas,” he called. But Atlas didn’t turn his back to look at him. “Bastard.” He whispered.

Lumanghap ng hangin si Race at sumigaw, “Atlas!” Turn around, turn around, turn around-there you go! Atlas just turn his back to look at him! Then Race lift this arms and showed his two middle fingers.

“See this?” Fuck this guy for influencing him to be bad. It’s Race first time to show his middle finger since he was in junior high school when he have a fight with some bullies. “See this?” He repeated. “My finger said, fuck yourself! Fuck you, Atlas! I will never chase you, you motherfucker!” He stumped his foot away.

He’s mad-no, he’s irritated with Atlas.

But it feels good. Oh, yeah. It feels good after he did that to Atlas. He deserved it though.

“What-What did you just say?-hey! I’m talking here. Don’t turn your back on me while I’m talking,”

Nagkabaliktad na tuloy, si Atlas na ngayon ang naghahabol kay Race.

“Did you just raise your middle fucking finger at me?” Atlas is behind him.

Race lips curves into a smile. Now, chase me, Atlas.

“I didn’t know that a potato can talk,” Race said it aloud to make sure that Atlas will hear it.

“I’m not a potato-”

Nakalabas na sila ng parking lot ng mall na pinuntahan ni Atlas.

Hindi nilingon ni Race si Atlas, patuloy lang siya sa kaniyang paglalakad habang si Atlas ay sinusundan siya at hindi ito tumitigil sa pagsasalita.

“Wait-wait,” Race stopped when he feels that Atlas stop behind him but he didn’t face the man. “It supposed to be you who chasing me and not another way around!”

Race smirk. Atlas finally notice that he’s chasing Race.

“It should be you and not me,” Race said cockily. “You like me right?”

“Oh, God. I can’t believe this…” Atlas whispered. “I knew it. It’s wrong that I confessed to you,”

“I knew that it is just a joke for you. You’re just pranking me-”

“What the hell?” Atlas exploded and in just a second, Atlas appear in front of him. Fuming mad and his face is red. “You think I’m just joking around and pranking you?!”

Race shrugged, he tried his best to remain calm even though his heart beat faster every minutes.

“Look,” Atlas took a deep breath. His arms in his hips, he’s not bright red. “Why did you think that I’m just pranking you?”

“’Cause…you’re avoiding me? After you confessed, you just disappear then you’re avoiding me and here I am chasing after you. So, that’s why I though that you’re just pranking me with your confession.”

“You rejected me!” Atlas exploded.

Nanlaki ang mata ni Race. He didn’t remember na nireject niya si Atlas, he remembered that he was stunned to say a word.

“I didn’t,”

“You didn’t talk, you didn’t say anything…and,” Atlas looks away, cheeks are red. “I knew that it is a rejection .”

Nobody talks. They are just staring at each other waiting who will talk first and Race won’t do that, so in the end, Atlas sighed and comb his hair.

“If that is not a rejection , then what is that?” Atlas ask.

Race blink three times, staring at the most beautiful eyes. Well, his father has the beautiful eyes and this one too. The man in front of him.

“Well,” he cleared his throat and looks away. “Um, maybe that’s, err- confusion ?”

“Confused?” Atlas stepped forward and Race couldn’t move. “Why are you-”

“Let’s end this talk. I’m confused because you didn’t tell me why you like me. End of discussion, so, let me excuse myself, eh?”

Race shrugged his shoulder. Hindi na niya nilingon pa si Atlas na nagrereklamo pa sa kaniyang likoran, iniwan na niya ito at umuwi na siya sa kaniyang bahay.

He’s done chasing, Atlas.

Kahit na hindi niya nalaman kung bakit nagkakagusto sa kaniya si Atlas, at least sigurado siyang gusto siya ni Atlas at hindi iyon prank lang.

Atlas likes him and Race smile because of that thought.

Atlas likes him and it makes him happy.

Damn happy.

CHAPTER 21

Atlas wanted to chase Race but someone called him and ordered him to buy a food. Take note, it’s his damn friend who ordered him to do it because they are out of stuck in their headquarter.

He can refuse it because Atlas is their boss-err more like a leader. But he is irritated and he wanted to cool off his mind before he goes home.

The talk between him and Race awhile ago didn’t end up well. Yes, he agreed that he likes it when Race chase after him, it’s been a weeks since Race started chasing him and his damn stupid assuming brain lets him assumed that Race like him. Well, he really believes that Race likes him because that man followed him around.

It’s so damn good to chased by a man named Race. Atlas didn’t know that Race have a gut to chased him. Ah, that feels good. But, the chasing end up awhile ago when Race stopped because of his damn stupid fucking dream.

That’s not true though. Atlas thought. He wouldn’t called Race a fool nor he didn’t wanted the man to get killed.

“What do you want?!” Atlas ask irritatedly, he’s now inside the grocery store of a mall.

“We want junk foods-”

“You know it’s bad for our health, right?” Atlas countered.

James cough, “when did you become an employee of World Health Organization?”

“What?!”

“I mean, you start talking like you care for us…” James added and maybe he heard Sebastian talk. “Well, he become a health adviser.”

“Didn’t I cared for all of you motherfucker?” Atlas ask while he stroll around but he didn’t know what to buy.

He just put all the food in the cart, but it’s all a healthy food.

“No.” James responded immediately.

“Well, I care now,” Atlas sighed, he didn’t know why he say that. It’s like it comes to his system naturally that eating junk foods is bad for our health.

He thinks that he just heard Race talking to his side, like an angel.

Atlas it’s not good for our health.

He just heard Race said that.

“Uh-huh, you started caring at us when the-man-shall-be-named-Race-who’s-got-our-boss-heart came in to your life.”

He stop after hearing that. He is not irritated that James say it, but the guy had a point. Since Race came and they become best friend (he still didn’t like the best friend tone) he started caring for his friends health. Well, he doesn’t show it.

“What do you want me to buy?” Atlas drop the topic and started strolling again.

“Um, can you stop by the pizza minute? Buy some pizza for me,” James voice echoed.

“Okay,” he said as he put the bread in the cart.

“Vegetables too, and meat. Anything that we can eat-” Rile speak.

“Chocolates and beer and please buy junk foods. Too boring without them, ’kay?.” Sebastian added.

He sighed, “okay, I got it.”

“This is exciting! Let’s party! Atlas become sooooo thoughtful! He’s buying us fooooodd-”

“Stupid,” Atlas say and headed out in the counter. “You’ll pay me, fuckers. This is not a treat and I’m not thoughtful as you thought.”

And everyone went silent and when Atlas checked the call, it’s already ended.

“Fuckers.” He murmurs under his breathe. He then look at the cashier. “How much?”

“Five thousand-five hundred, sir-”

“What?!” Atlas exclaimed. He pointed the food he buys. “All of this is five thousand-five hundred?!”

The girl looks away, turning red. “Y-Yes, sir.”

Atlas pouted and pull his card in his pocket. “Here,” he handed it on the cashier.

The girl swipe it faster and handed it back at him. “Done, sir.” The girl said.

“Thanks-”

“Atlas?” A girl voice from behind.

He peaks from his shoulder and he saw Bridgette.

And he become more irritated. What is she doing here?

“It’s really you!” Bridgette step in beside him, smiling widely. Well, he didn’t forgot that this girl likes him and then she flirt Race.

“What are you doing here?”

Atlas almost rolled his eyes. He didn’t even try to hide it before Bridgette saw him. But the girl seems didn’t mind it, like the girl used to it.

“I’m here to play. You know, this amusement park is the best!” He said then rolled his eyes again.

The girl smile, “oh, I thought you’re here to buy some ingredients for Race’s birthday. I thought wrong-”

His head snaps on Bridgette. “Race what?”

The girl smiled widely and put all in his cart in the counter.

“You didn’t know?” Bridgette smile at him like she wins. When he didn’t talk, Bridgette smile wider. “Oh…I thought you already knows it! You’re his best friend right? Race’s birthday is coming and I am here because I buy some ingredients since I’ll cook for him for his birthday. It’s like a tradition, you know? I always cooked for Race when it’s his birthday!” Atlas thought, maybe it’s that his imagination but he just saw Bridgette eyes shining like she’s challenging him. “How about you, Atlas? What are you going to cook for Race? Hmm?”

Damn this girl. Bridgette did just defy him? Oh, well. He will gladly accept it.

Defying him is not good, sweetie.

---

“Why are you sulking?” James ask while he munching the pizza and the fucker didn’t pay him.

“Hmm, I’ll be guessing…” Sebastian touches his chin to think. “Nag-away kayo ni Race? Am I right?”

Atlas rolled his eyes. These days he found himself rolling his eyes often every time he’s irritated. “No,”

“First ever fight as a couple?”

He throw a death glare towards Rile but the man just smile at him mockingly.

“We’re not a fucking couple-”

“Oh, right! He rejected you!”

“Go to hell, Rile.” He said while showing his middle finger.

Damn, he didn’t forget that Race raise his middle finger at him earlier and it’s fucking hot. Atlas was stunned to speak that time since it his first time to saw Race raise his middle fucking finger.

But it makes Atlas happy.

Did I just turned the good man into bad one. He likes both though.

“So, if you and Race did not fight…then why are you sulking like someone defy you?” Rile ask again.

Because he’s irritated again after he remember what Bridgette said earlier and it makes his blood boils.

“I don’t know when his birthday,” he the pouted and bite a pizza.

“That’s my pizzaaaa-”

“Fuck you. It’s my pizza, you didn’t pay me, moron!”

James pouted and shut his mouth.

“Who?” Sebastian spouted.

“Race birthday,” he respond, can’t meet their eyes.

He thinks that his face is now scarlet because he can feel that his face is hot.

“Oh…” The three said in unison.

Suggestions boom in a seconds.

Rile say, “let’s ask him.”

James say, “easy! We can track it!”

Sebastian says at last, “you’re unbelievable. You like him but you don’t know his birthday? God, man! You don’t deserve that man.”

The last one makes him irritated more. He wanted to throw Sebastian outside the headquarter but the man seems more muscular than him so he can’t kick Sebastian ass out of the headquarter.

“The last one is correct!” James agree. He glare at the guy and James smile, can’t meet his eyes. “On the second thought! My suggestion is more eligible! Sebastian, you can go out now! You’re suggestion is reallyyyyy useless!”

“You agreed with me awhile ago, why change of hearts, James?” Sebastian smirk.

“I didn’t!”

The two didn’t stop arguing.

Atlas sighed and he stand up. “Stop you two,” he pointed his friends who keep arguing. “I didn’t forget that you still have to pay me since you ordered me to buy a food and for your fucking information this is not a treat! You’ll pay me! All of this!” He then storm out of the headquarter and drive back to his house.

While driving, he pull out his phone and call Bridgette. Well, Bridgette knows Race’s birthday. He just let his pride down so he can’t ask James to hack Race’s documents and birth certificate.

“Oh, you finally call me!” Bridgette shriek.

Atlas tried not to rolled his eyes, but fail to do it.

“When is his birthday?” He ask cooly.

“Oh…” Bridgette went silent for a moment. “Hmm, it’s one week from now…it’s sunday. October 15.”

“Okay-”

“Wait!”

Atlas did not hang up the call, he wait Bridgette to talk. Maybe the girl wants to tell him something?

“Um, do you mind…do you-um, mind if I ask you for a date-”

“No, thanks. I’m off limits . Bye. Thanks for the information.” He then hang up the call and throw his phone at the back seat.

Fucking off limits.

   * * * 

“What are you going to do in your birthday?” His daddy asked him while they’re eating dinner.

“Visit mom,” he answered.

“No going out with your friends?”

Friends?

He stop eating. Atlas comes into his mind. Atlas and Bridgette is only his friends. But Atlas is the best friend. Yeah, he just put some label.

“Um, no?” He’s not sure, so Race just shrugged his shoulder.

“Going out with Bridgette?” Isaiah ask.

Race swallows and look up to his father and he notice that his Papa Hades is staring at his daddy like he’s waiting for Isaiah to continue.

There’s no other meaning in that question. Race though. His daddy’s just asking him.

“She’s coming here and she also told me that she’ll come with us when we visit mom.”

Isaiah nodded. “Cool,” a whispers. “Anything else?” ask Isaiah again.

“No,”

“Do you list some places you wanted to go in your bucket list?”

“Yeah, I did.”

“Oh, then let’s do it-”

“Uh, I think I cannot go to that places yet. I have plan on it,”

Isaiah nods slowly. “Oh, okay. So, do you have any wishes? Wish list?”

Race put his utensils slowly and stared at his daddy’s eyes and smiled. “Dad, I only have one wish,”

“What is it?”

“To live longer with you and Papa.”

---

“It’s burrrrnniiiiinggg!” James shouted and run around the room. “Call nine-one-one! We’re gonna diee!”

“Shut up, James!” Sebastian exclaimed but he’s in panic mode also. He doesn’t know what to do, to get a bucket of water or run first to save your life.

“Don’t panic! It’s just a fire!” Atlas, at least tried to calm his friends down. But he’s bad at it. “If you don’t calm down, we’ll gonna die virgin!”

“Oh, God! I’m motivated! Thank you, Atlas for your not-helping-motivation!” James run everywhere.

Alarm echoed in the room.

“I said don’t panic! Don’t panic! It won’t kill us!” Atlas exclaimed, now he’s on panic mode.

“Well, it just burn us down into ashes!” Sebastian was about to run outside when someone speak.

“What are you guys doing?”

Rile the calm one just enter the room and he’s staring them like his friends are the bunch of idiots people.

James still screaming and running around, he open the refrigerator and get a mineral water and throw the water in the fire but the fire gets bigger.

“Fiiirrrreeee! We’re done! We’re done! We’re gonna dieeeee!” James shake Atlas so hard and wipe his fake tears. “I love you so much man. I am so grateful that you exist in the world. You know how much I love you and I always treasure our memories and I will be forever your best friend!”

“You’re so dramatic! You’ll win the Oscar award,” Atlas says in a smug face. “But with a horrible acting.”

The alarm’s off and everyone is looking at each other.

“What are you doing?” Rile ask while wiping his arms.

“Atlas burn the headquarter-” Sumbong ni James.

“I did not! You’re imitating me cooking! You burned the headquarter!” He said and work straight to the gas stove and inspect the damages. But shockingly, there’s no damage. Well, except the meat that looks so horrible. It’s darker and maybe the meat just turned into ashes. “Poor meat.” Atlas said.

He turned to look at his personal doctor who seems very calm.

“What did you do?” He asked.

“Don’t throw a water when it happens,” Rile said and sit down.

“Pero nasusunog ang kawali-”

“Nasusunog ang kawali dahil masyadong malakas ang apoy ng gas stove at hinigup ng mantika ang apoy kaya nakikita ninyong nag-aapoy sa mantika.” Rile explain and they all listen. “Don’t throw water on the prying pan because it makes worser. Hinding-hindi nagkakatagpo ang tubig at mantika kaya ito lumala ng buhusan ito ng tubig ni James.”

“Ahh…” They all nodded.

Atlas realize that they all look stupid. They panicked just because of that fire! They all look stupid.

“When that happen again, remove the pry pan in the stove and wait until the fire disappear.” Rile added and look at them smugly. Yeah, Rile thinks that they are pretty stupid.

Finally, Atlas can breath properly. He thinks that his heart went out from his ribcage. Yeah, he panicked…and screamed.

“Back to the part that Atlas cooked,” Rile looks at him and arch his brow.

“What?” He asked.

“You cooked?” Rile ask again.

“There’s a problem with that?”

Rile shakes his head but a smirk slips in his lips. “Nope. Cooking is not a problem, but the problem is…you cooked. Like it’s not you, Atlas.”

And that’s it. He can’t hide anything from his friend.

After he bought some ingredients, Atlas immediately tried to cooked and did not went well, they almost burned the place because of his first try.

“And…what makes you to tried to cook, Atlas?” Rile added.

So at the end, Atlas told them about he met Bridgette at the mall and then he knew Race’s birthday because of Bridgette and that girl defy him. Of course, he won’t let that girl win so he bought ingredients and tried to cooked so he can cook for Race.

And Atlas think that he’ll poison Race with his cook.

“Why just throw a party?” Sebastian suggest.

“No,” he snaps. “Race won’t like it. He doesn’t like to party.”

“Well, everyone wants to party, Atlas-”

“Except, Race. He doesn’t like it, also when people around him smoke.”

Atlas stared at wall helplessly. He misses Race so much and thinking about that man makes him want to drive to Race’s house so he can see the man.

He truly misses Race.

It’s fun that Race chased him to seeks some clarification but still he’s irritated that Race rejected him. Oh, well. Race said he didn’t rejected him but he’s silence for a whole moment when Atlas confessed because Race was confused.

Race asked him, ‘why do you like me?’

And he keep on thinking about that. He can’t think for an answer when Race asked him that but something comes up to his mind and he want to say it aloud but can’t.

He wanted to tell Race that; ‘I like you because I found you so comforting. I like you because one day I realize that you are my comfort. Every time I saw you, my body felt alive-no, my soul felt alive and everything’s alright.’

He wanted to tell everything. He wanted to tell Race about what he feels but he’s thinking when’s the right time of that.

Maybe not today or tomorrow or the next day, but he’ll tell Race about what is in his mind.

He’ll tell everything, every details, every feelings he felt, every heart beat he gets when Race’s around. He’ll tell Race when and how he likes Race. It sounded cringe but he’ll do it.

He already accept it. He already accept that he really fall for a man named Hurace.

“I’m gay,” Atlas said aloud and proud.

His friends stared at him, no trace of shock in their faces. Then his friends smiled at him.

“We know.”

“I like him,” he say proudly. “I want him. I’ll make him mind and he’ll become my boyfriend.” He says confidently.

He’s not afraid to admit this all.

Not anymore.

Sebastian patted his shoulder and sit beside him. “Go get him. If you don’t, then I’ll stole him from you.”

“Motherfucker. That will never happen,”

“I know,” Sebastian stand up and help Atlas to stand. “Let’s continue to our cooking lesson.”

“And try not to burn the headquarter down.” Rile added.

CHAPTER 22

“Oh, look at him. He looks handsome,” Isaiah said while waiting for him. “I knew that you’ll get my charm, son.” Isaiah added while mussing Race hair.

Oh, God. It takes him minutes to fix his hair and now his daddy just messed it.

“No, he get it from me.” Hades put his arms around his shoulder and shook him. “Right, son? We have some similarities and one of it is my handsomeness!”

“You don’t have any contribution, Hades. You have zero percent sperm,” Isaiah fired back while fixing his tie.

Race watches his Papa clutches his chest like he’s hurt and walk dramatically to his partner.

“You knew that I have contribution to our son’s handsomeness! I donate one-hundred percent of my sperm-”

“Oh, you did not-”

“Hey! Do not ever forget that I planted my thousands-millions of sperms in you butt-”

Isaiah slap his palm to Hades mouth, glaring at him. Cheek flush and red neck.

“I pooped all your sperms, Hades. Your sperms stayed in my butt and it didn’t travel to my balls!”

Oh, Jesus. Race cannot take this anymore. He cannot. Hearing his parents arguing about this it makes him to leave them behind but can’t. Even though his parents argue all the time about their sex life, even though it makes Race uncomfortable but it makes him happy seeing his parents argue in a small thinks. He loves seeing his parents hugging after their fights like they can’t resist each other, like they cannot live without each other.

Race look away so he can give his parents a short time of privacy. They did this always like they are not tired of this.

Race on the other hand, he can’t take it when one day he’ll lose his parents. He maybe die with them. He won’t get tired hearing and seeing his parents like this because he knows that one day he can’t see this anymore.

Maybe he’ll die young because of accident, or a disease or maybe he’ll die old?

He’ll cherish this moments forever.

“Son, turn around,” says his daddy Isaiah.

“Are you done?” He asked.

“Uh-huh,”

He then spin around and confetti boom as his parents started singing happy birthday.

“Happy birthday, Hurace Adam Monteverde!” Hi Papa Hades shouted and hugged him.

“You’re 20,” Isaiah said.

“Yes, dad. I’m finally 20.” Race blow the candles and smiles to his daddy.

“I can’t believed it, you grow so fast.”

“Time flies fast,” says Race and hugged his daddy.

“You’re big now, baby bubu!” Hades, messes his hair again.

“Pa, I’m not baby anymore! I’m twenty!” He protest.

“Still a baby! My baby bubu!”

God, he cannot. Help Race. His papa Hades won’t stop calling him ‘my baby bubu’ even though he’s already twenty years old! His papa used to call him baby bubu when he’s still a kid, but now he’s a man.

“Pa, I’m a man not a baby,” Race pouted.

“Oh, is this man have a girlfriend already?” Hades wiggle his brow at him and he shakes his head.

“Nah, I’m living single until 50.” He said.

“Aw, don’t be soooo stupid, son. You’ll find someone someday,” Hades put his arms back around Race’s shoulder. “Or perhaps not.” Hades added.

“Come here,” Isaiah step in while holding a small box in his hand. “I have a twentieth birthday gift for you, son.”

Race stare down at the box that his daddy’s holding. It is a small black box.

“Thanks, dad,” he said and reach for the box. “What’s this?” Asked Race.

“Open it.”

He stared at his daddy for a minute before he open it and saw a bracelet.

Race slowly look up to his father who’s watching his reaction.

“Dad, this is Graff,” he said and his father nodded.

“Yup, I told them to made a bracelet that made out of rubies and emeralds. It cost a millions, but it is worth it.” Isaiah just shrugged his shoulder like it’s nothing to him.

Millions?! Just for a bracelet?!

Well, he believed that this bracelet cost a millions because it’s made by Graff. A well-known for its luxury accessories. Royals used accessories from Graff. Royals like Queen Elizabeth and some artist like Lady Gaga.

“Dad, this is too much,” he shakes his head. “Please, stop spending too much money. I love this bracelet but it’s too much. I can’t wear this-”

“Oh, wear it, boy or your dad will gonna cry,” Hades cuts him off.

Race snaps his head at his father.

“Dad-”

“Just wear it if you feel like, I didn’t force you to wear it, son,” Isaiah smiled and patted his head like he always did when Race still a kid. Hobbies hard to stop. “And besides I didn’t regret buying you an expensive luxury bracelet made by a luxury and well-known brand. You’re worth it more than a rubies and emeralds, son.”

His heart, he thinks just beat faster than he ever feels. His father made his heart beat faster. He thinks he might cry.

“So, don’t feel guilty wearing this, okay?”

He nodded and let his daddy help him wear it. Race stared down at his wrist where the bracelet place. It’s beautiful, it’s sparkling.

“Dad, thank you,” he said finally and look up to his daddy. “Thank you for bringing me in the world-”

“No,” Isaiah cuts him off. “Thank you for staying for us. Thank you for surviving…”

Something bangs his heart like something hard hit his heart that makes him hard to breathe but he still manage it.

“Oh, Jesus. This is so dramatic, I might cry. I’m cutting onions here, my loves.” Hades speak beside them and he and Isaiah both look at Hades whose wiping his wet cheek and eyes.

“I’m fine,” Hades said, but not convincing. “Let’s go?” Hades smiled at them, looking at them with gentle eyes. “Trixie is waiting for us.”

---

It is their tradition to celebrate Race’s birthday at the cemetery. Race likes to celebrate it with his mother and his fathers.

Today is also Trixie’s twentient death anniversary. The day she gave birth to Race, the day Trixie gave Isaiah a son. The day that Trixie died.

Isaiah told Race about his father and mother’s relationship when were they are a teenager.

They were a young couple, they love excitements. Race mother was not just his father ex-girlfriend but also was his best friend.

Race won’t forget that his father told him once that he loved Trixie and his mother is a loving woman and loving best friend. His mother was there when his father needed someone even though Isaiah tried to pushed her away. But still at the end, his father can’t love Trixie as he love Hades.

He and his father both watch Hades as he put down the folding table. It’s not too big and it suit for three persons.

After Hades arrange the table, Isaiah put two basket on the table.

“Hey, Trixie,” Hades waves his hand as if Trixie is in front of him. “Long time no see.” Hades added. “Guess what? We’re getting stronger! Me and Isaiah is getting stronger, our relationship is much more stronger than you imagine.”

“Stop it, Hades she’ll visit you in your dream and haunts you,” Isaiah said.

“Nah, she can’t. You occupy my damn mind even in my dream you still there.”

And that makes his daddy cheeks flushed. Isaiah turn his back at Hades so his Papa can’t see his daddy’s blushing.

He smiled while watching is daddy and papa. These two always acts like a teenager like they didn’t age at all.

Isaiah cleared his throat, “son? Any word?”

Race step forward and put the bouquet on the ground. “Hey, mom,” he cleared his throat. “It’s been a two decades since you gave birth to me and you give up…twenty years of existing and twenty years of missing you, mom. But, don’t worry, I’m doing well and I did not ever forget to take care my health as my daddy said to me. Also papa Hades is doing well, he treat Daddy and me well. He didn’t leave us and abandon us also he treat me like his own child like I’m from his genius and charming sperm. Don’t worry, okay? We’re doing fine, papa will take care of Daddy. They relationship is going strong too…it’s stronger by the way. They both in love at each other even though they fight all day.

Actually, mom they’re fighting over a small thing and they make it bigger. Something didn’t change over a decades, mom.“ He stop to take a deep breathe.

“See? My son really loves me,” he hears his Papa whispers. “He compliments me and he called my sperm genius and charming!” He hissed.

“Shut up.” Race can hear his daddy rolling his eyes.

“Um, happy twentieth death anniversary, mom and happy twentieth birthday to me.” He added.

After his long speech his papa step beside him and put his arms around his shoulder.

“Hey, Trix,” his Papa called. “Thank you for giving me a handsome man, my son. Thank you for bringing him to life and also thank you for trusting me. I promise I won’t disappoint you, I’ll take care of your son-that is my son now. And I’ll take care of your man-he was your man but he’s mine. I’ll love this men you gave to me-although I found Isaiah and I stole him away from you because this man was so damn hot and gorgeous then he seduced me to hell and I fall in love with this man named Isaiah Monteverde-Servantes. Yes! He’s a Servantes now, we got married-civil marriage. These men are mine now, you can’t take any of them away from me. No one can take them away from me even you, Trixie.”

His papa didn’t fail to make Isaiah and Race cry. His papa is a loving father that he always prayed for. His Papa is not young anymore also his daddy. They are both near fifty and it makes Race heart hurt. And to his twenty years of living, he witnessed how his Papa took care of him and his daddy. He can still remember the time when Race rushed to the hospital and his Papa was there while his daddy is away.

His papa loves him even though they are not related, even though he is not Hades biological child.

Hades once told him when he asked why he loves him even though he’s not his child and Hades said, “loving a person it doesn’t need to be a blood related or your biological father. Loving a person means you can’t live without them and I can’z live without both of you and your daddy. Even though you are not my biological child, I still love you, Race. It doesn’t need to be a blood related.”

After their heart warming speech, they all sit on the chair and they started eating the food that Hades prepared.

“You think Trix is watching us?” After the moment of silent, Hades finally speak.

“I dunno, I haven’t seen her walking around or watching us,”

“Well, that’s a creep.” Hades whispered before he continue eating.

A smile tugs on Race’s lips before he face his father. He wanted to ask his father about something that has been on his mind for how many years of silent.

Now, he has the courage to ask his daddy. It’s been a decade and he believes that his fathers will understand him, specially Hades.

“Did you ever love mom?” He asked.

He wanted to ask his father about this. He’s really curious but too afraid to ask because he can’t stomach seeing his papa Hades hurt.

A moment of silent before Isaiah answered him. “I loved your mom,”

Take note: loved. Past tense.

“She was my girlfriend and my best friend. She’s always there when I needed someone. I know she loved me but I can’t return the love she gave. I loved her because she is she, I love her but it’s not too deep like I love your Papa.” Isaiah glances at Hades before continuing. “The difference between the love I felt for your mother and your Papa Hades is that I love your mother as a friend and I love your father that I would die if I lose your father. I can’t live without your father, Race.”

Race glance at his Papa Hades who have a tear in his eyes while staring at his beloved Isaiah.

“God, babe. You gave me another reason to tie you into our bed and fuck-”

“For God’s sake, Hades. Stop saying fuck-”

“Make love I mean.” Hades cuts him off.

Race caught his daddy fighting the urge to roll his eyes. “I forbid you to talk about our sex life, Hades. We’re here to celebrate Race’s birthday.”

“Noted, babe.” Hades wink that makes Race laugh and shakes his head.

“By the way,” his daddy snaps his head toward him. “I receive a call earlier and it from Bridgette,” Isaiah pause. “She asked where we celebrating your birthday and I said here and she asked if she can come over and I said ‘yes! Sure, Bridgette.’ And she’s joining us here today.”

“Aw, your girlfriend is coming-” his papa tease him.

“She’s not my girlfriend-”

“Oh, she’s here.” Isaiah said and they all look toward the girl whose holding a basket. She dressed a pink floral and she bun her hair.

“Hello po!” She wave shyly at Race’s parents.

“It’s good to see you here, Bridgette. Whose with you?” Hades asked and look behind Bridgette.

“I come here alone, tito,” Bridgette said and finally glance at Race.

He’s happy to see Bridgette here but something strange in his heart.

“Happy birthday, Race,” she smiled wide and walk to his side. “I cooked your favorite italian pasta and I baked you a cake,” Bridgette took all the food box out of her basket and put it on the table.

His Papa put down the folding chair besides him. He didn’t realize that his papa brought some chair for Bridgette.

“It’s so sweet,” Isaiah commented but he’s staring at Race, maybe watching his reaction and he didn’t give his father a satisfaction.

Race look up and smiled. “I appreciate this, but you shouldn’t have cooked and baked-”

“I love cooking and baking. At huwag kang mag-alala, Race. Kaibigan kita kaya wala kang inabala.”

“Still.” He said.

“How sweet she is, isn’t she lovely, son?” Hades asked, while grinning so widely.

“She is.” He responded but he’s not full of enthusiasm.

He’s waiting for someone. He’s waiting for someone to text him or maybe call him to greet him a happy birthday.

The first thing he check after he woke up was his cellphone and hoping he receive a text from someone he know. But he got nothing until now.

And Race thinks that maybe he never knew that today is his birthday. Perhaps. He never tell when is his birthday so maybe he never know?

But still, he’s waiting. Or maybe Race waiting for him to reach out after their talk.

In the mall’s parking lot, it’s their last tao because after that they both avoiding each other. They met and cross their path several times but they didn’t talk. Not totally avoiding each other because they still acknowledge each other whenever they cross their path. They just nodded and then walk away. Sometimes they just cock their brows and then walk away like nothing happened, like they didn’t know each other.

Since that confession, something change between them.

Atlas is avoiding him, perhaps he’s timid about his confession or maybe he’s afraid to face him, or he regret confessing. The latter is possible.

Maybe he regretted it and so Atlas avoid him and chose to stay stranger.

It makes Race frustrated. He wanted to yell at Atlas and chase that man and kick his fucking ass but no. Race is stopping himself to do it because he’s done chasing Atlas. He wanted a clarification and Atlas didn’t gave him that.

And it turns out, Atlas makes him confused more.

It should have a reason why Atlas likes him. That’s all he wanted to know because it’s really head spinning after Atlas confessed and Race can’t believed it.

How can he will believed it? They both man! And Atlas is so handsome and he makes everyone droll at him (except for him) and he can pull girls he likes if he wanted to but why him?

He’s a man.

Race thought that Atlas, perhaps a bisexual.

But him? He didn’t think so. It’s confusing and it’s frustrating. He’s mad at himself because he can’t think clearly, he can’t tell Atlas about what he feels too because he doubted himself and he thinks he’s not sure about his feeling.

He’s afraid to tell Atlas about this. About something that kept coming to his mind and fucking mess his mind for a weeks thinking of this.

He’s afraid to admit that he finally likes Atlas and he wants to punch Atlas for making him feel this way.

“Did you like it?” Bridgette walks beside him.

They are now heading out, it’s getting darker now and they finally go home.

“Yes,” he said even though he hadn’t pay attention at the whole damn thing celebration. “Thank you.” He added.

“No worries,” Bridgette smiled at him and she pull something from her bag. “Here. This is my birthday gift for you, it’s not that expensive but I bought this using my own money.”

He should be happy because Bridgette cooked for him and even gave him a present, but he can’t fake all the things he feels right now.

Like someone is digging a damn hole in his stomach.

“Thanks, but you don’t have to give me a present when it’s my birthday,”

“I just want to give you that because you’re great and I’m so thankful that you are my friend.”

He stared at the box, slowly open it and found a luxury brand of a watch. He knows that it is expensive and luxury-she perhaps bought this from and famous and well-known brand. The leather is very luxury.

“I can’t accept this,” he looks at Bridgette. “This is too much.” He said.

He already have a million worth of bracelet gifted by his daddy. He already wore a million accessories in his damn wrist and can’t wear anything luxury anymore. One day, they might not see Race anymore because he already kidnap because of this luxury bracelet and watch.

“No. Don’t give it back, this is my present for you for being my best friend and-”

“Being my friend it doesn’t need anything in return. I don’t need something in return, Bridge. Our friendship doesn’t need this things.” He cuts Bridgette’s off.

“I know…I just feel to give you this. When was strolling in the mall, I found this and I didn’t hesitated to buy.” Bridgette explained.

Still, he won’t wear this luxury watch. Bracelet is enough, he can’t afford another luxury accessories in his wrist.

“Thank you.” He cuts the topic and walk silently towards the their car.

His parents are waiting for them there.

“Let’s go home, we’ll continue our celebration at the house,” Isaiah says. “You can come with us, Bridgette. It will be more merry.” He added.

Race didn’t talk not even give a comment. He and his daddy already talked about the things between him and Bridgette and he already clarified it. Maybe, his daddy is just that generous.

“Um, sure.” Bridgette answered with a smile.

“Great!” Hades exclaimed, glancing towards Race. “Let’s go home?”

Race nodded and caress his jeans pocket where his phone located. He didn’t receive any and he lost his excitement. Race expected Atlas to call to greet him a happy birthday, but he receive nothing.

Not shocking at all. Race though that Atlas didn’t know when is his birthday so maybe that’s why the man didn’t reach out for him. But still, he feels hole in his stomach and wanted to vomit.

He’s the last to enter the car but before he close the door his phone vibrated from his pocket.

His heart pound after he read the text. Heart rate is not normal and the hole in his stomach? Just vanished.

Atlas:

I’ll fetch you outside the subdivision. 6:00 p.m. sharp.

CHAPTER 23

“Drop me here,”

All their heads snaps at Race.

“What? Why?” His daddy asked him. “Did you forgot something?” Isaiah added.

Race shook his head as he looked outside. It’s already dark, he can’t see anybody outside the subdivision.

“Race?” The warning of his daddy’s voice. “Tell, what’s the problem?” Then worry shows in his face.

Race shook his head again, “no, I’m fine, dad.”

“Then, why is that you wanted us to drop you here?”

“Um,” he’s searching for a response. Race look up to think but he can feel the stare of his daddy.

It’s dangerous. His daddy used to stare at him using that look when he’s angry or upset or irritated at him.

He sighed.

There’s no place to lie, he can’t lie to his daddy. Isaiah knows his son so well.

Race sigh again in defeat. “I’ll meet someone here,” he finally admitted.

They all went silent. The silents is so deafening, he can hear the insects even though they are inside the car.

Hades cough. Isaiah blinks and Bridgette stare at him, shock.

“I gotta go,” he said and about to open the door but his daddy speak again.

“Who’s the person you meet with?”

“Friend.” He didn’t hesitated to answer but after that he doubted himself.

He don’t know if him and Atlas is still a friend after what happened between them-the Atlas’s confession. It cause a bigger changes specially in their friendship.

“A friend…” Isaiah nodded and glance at Hades.

“What’s the name?” Hades asked.

“Can’t tell you,”

“And why?”

“He’s…” He’s finding for a better answer of that question. “He’s…private person, introvert and…he doesn’t want anyone to-”

He then stopped because he realize something.

He said something. He mentioned something!

God, he wants to bury himself in the ground. He want to be a potato right now. He’s hoping that his parents didn’t realize it or they mishear it.

The nervousness he feel right now is the worst when he’s takes his entrance exam.

He stares at his parents whose staring at him, waiting for him to continue, but there’s no hints of confusion in their eyes and their emotions didn’t change since he started talking.

Phew. Maybe they didn’t realize it! Fuck! I would bury myself fifteen feet under the ground.

If you wondering why Race is acting like this and he’s nervous because he mentioned something earlier?

It because he mentioned ‘he’. Race said ‘he’ and that is his biggest mistakes because he just giving his parents a hint what’s the gender of this person he’s meeting with.

“Why did you stop?” His daddy asked, brows frowned.

Shit. I hope they didn’t realize it. He’ll die young because of this. His papa will tease him forever and would never stop teasing him until his last breath.

God thanks! The didn’t heard it! They didn’t realize it! They didn’t-

He stop and slowly look at his side and he saw Bridgette, staring at him intently, like she’s reading him like a book.

God help. Bridgette didn’t take the hint. She didn’t realize it too. She’s just waiting for him to continue like his parents. Possibly.

He cleared his throat after a moment of silent.

“My friend…” He said. “Is a private person. My friend doesn’t like, um gathering, introvert and hates people.”

He look at Bridgette from his peripheral view and saw Bridgette arching her brow and tilt her head.

Jesus.

“Oh,” Hades finally said, nodding. “That’s explain a lot.”

“He hates people but he’s your friend,” not a question.

Race glance to his daddy. “Um, he hates people but we’re friend. Not all people who hates people doesn’t have a friend. Most of them have one to two friends.”

“Hmm, okay,” Isaiah nodding his head. “But still. He’s a little bit weird for me. People doesn’t hate people, they just don’t want to be around with them. It’s different right? Hates and doesn’t want to be around with them.” Isaiah said more to himself and nodded again before he settle to his seat.

“Fine, we’ll drop you here,” Race face lit up but he hide it immediately. “But, please…take care, okay? Call me when everything is not right, okay? Call me when you feel something different.”

“Yes, dad.”

“Call us, okay?” Isaiah asked again to assure.

“Yep,” Race popped the ’ p ’.

He look at his daddy before he open the door and he hear a sigh when he step outside.

“Be home at 8 p.m. sharp.”

When he look back to his father, he saw the hesitation in their eyes like they want to take back what they’ve said earlier and doesn’t want him to leave.

“8 p.m.” Race repeated.

“Sharp.” Isaiah added.

Race watched the car until it disappear before he started walking. Suddenly, he stop when he saw someone coming from the dark.

“You’re 5 minutes late,” Atlas voice echoed.

“My father throws many questions.”

Atlas nodded and a car beeped behind him.

“Let’s go?” Atlas fell a step beside him as they walk towards the car.

It’s a black classic mustang and Race was amaze by the car.

“You own this?” He ask.

“Yes.”

Eerily silence filled inside the car. Minutes passed but still no one talks. They are both silent and breathe are heavy.

“Where are we going?” Race break the silence at last.

Fuck the silence. It’s so deafening it feels like bees are whispering in my ear.

“You’ll see later.” Atlas answered but it didn’t satisfied Race.

Wherever they going, Race seems relax and comfortable. He’s expecting Atlas to welcome him a happy birthday song but he didn’t. Atlas didn’t say a word.

He’s a little bit offended. He thought Atlas wants to meet him because he knows that today is his birthday. Yet, even a greetings he didn’t receive from the man whose driving and been silent in the whole ride.

Race feel irritated, his brow frowned and the middle of his brow deepen as he stare at the window and watching the trees passed by.

After a long ride, they finally stop in front of a three-story house that looks classic.

The double gate open and they go inside. From the distance, Race hear a loud bang of a music. No shouting, just a loud music echoed the place.

Race glanced at the man beside him to ask a question but he stop himself when he saw the dark eyes of Atlas, the intent of his eyes stop him.

Jaw clenched and narrowed eyes.

“What the fuck are they…” Atlas muffle the words, he didn’t hear what Atlas said.

When Atlas step outside and he followed.

“What is happening, Atlas and where are we?” He asked. The place seems so horrific. He didn’t see any houses near here and they are surrounded by a bunch of trees.

Why a house built here? They are weirds.

Race look around before he fell a step beside Atlas whose stumping his feet hard in the earth.

Atlas is mad .

He can see it in his eyes. The dark eyes, narrowed and intense. Brow frowned and jaw clench.

Atlas looks…wonderful. Handsome. Attractive. Dangerous .

Atlas open the door without knocking. The music filled his ear as they step inside.

Race roam his eyes around. Drinks. Smoke. Party.

But Race didn’t saw any people partying.

Only James drinking, Rile not minding his surrounding and Sebastian playing a dart.

Race’s eyes drop to the man who seems the only one who enjoy the party.

Smoke between his index and middle finger, a bottle of liquor in his other hand. He’s enjoying the loud party music, he do head bangs like a rock star and then suddenly everything went out.

The party lights went off. The music turned off. Silence fell over, it eating them.

Head turned towards him. Race didn’t know what to do. He panic, sweat in his palms.

Fuck. He didn’t know what to react. The guys might think that he’s the one who turned off the music and the party lights.

He was about to explain himself that he didn’t do it but he feel something dangerous step beside him that makes him shiver.

Atlas presense makes his body shiver. This is the first time he saw Atlas this intense and dark eyes clouded with anger.

“What the fuck are you doing?” Voice hard as rock.

His three friends freeze like a statue, they gulp and James look away wiping his sweat.

His friends…are terrified at this side of Atlas.

He is too.

“I said what the fuck are you doing?” Atlas voice boom. “Sebastian?” He gaze Sebastian who look calm but sweat streaming down.

Sebastian swallowed, “w-we…um, we-”

“You’re throwing a party,” Atlas cuts him off, eyes were bloodshot.

Race didn’t know what’s happening and why Atlas is mad that his friends is throwing a party. Race didn’t see any wrong about this, he just-Race move backward, away from smoke.

“W-We didn’t…it’s…it’s-” James couldn’t find a right word to say. He’s trembling.

“Who the fuck told you to throw a party? I already told you do not do anything stupid!”

“We didn’t throw a party,” Rile said, hands in his pocket. He seem calm. “It’s August.”

They all look at the man whose smoking and didn’t mind what happened around him like he have another world.

“August,” Atlas called the man with a cold and dry voice.

“Brother.” The man stand and walk slowly towards Atlas.

“What the fuck did you?”

“Obviously! I’m throwing a party!” The man named August throw his arms in the air and laugh.

Race flinched when August look at his way and then the man is in front of him puffing a smoke in his mouth.

“Hm, you must be Race.” August smiled at him and puff the smoke at his face.

Race fall a step backward and cough so hard when the smoke goes to his lungs.

God, he hate the smell of smoke and the effect of it in his body.

“Motherfucker.”

Seconds later, Race heard a loud bang, he look at the man who puff a smoke at his face-was now sitting in the floor, wiping the blood in his mouth.

“Don’t. Do. That. Again.”

Atlas hands in his brother’s neck, gripping tight but the man was smiling like an idiot.

“Oh, you’ll willingly kill your own blood and brother for this…” August look at him before he smiled and continue. “Man? What a shame.”

“Want to see Hades?” Atlas tilt his head, his eyes are now blank. Race didn’t see any mercy in Atlas’s eyes.

It brings fire in his body just looking at the man he knows and seconds passed he thinks he knows this man enough but the truth is Race didn’t really know the man who defended him.

Seeing Atlas like this makes him shiver and he wants to run away from this place. He didn’t expected this, he didn’t know that this will happen and he didn’t expect to see Atlas like this.

Something dark clouded to his eyes. Race saw no mercy.

Race though that Atlas was a soft man who loves to piss him off, who loves to throw a jokes and a man who keep saying they are friends. He thought wrong. Perhaps. After he saw this, he change his mind.

Atlas is not a soft man. He’s dangerous man.

But still, Race couldn’t move. His body won’t let him leave even though he’s terrified after seeing this. What a shame. His body told him a different. His body told him the opposite.

Run . His mind said. Run. Run. Run. Run. Dangerous. Dangerous man.

His mind works.

Don’t. Stay with him. He’s not dangerous. He’s different. Don’t run.

His body object and move.

Stay. Stay. Stay. Stay. Fucking stay.

So he stay even though he’s trembling and there’s an urge to his mind to run and don’t look back.

“I’ll kill if you do that again,” Atlas cold voice stop him from his reverie.

“Nah, you wouldn’t-” August didn’t finish when he choke.

“You wouldn’t know…Don’t take my threat as a joke, August. Trust me, the last thing in mind right now is to put this fucking cigarette to your fucking mouth while I lit it up.”

Run. No. Stay. Run. Stay.

“Atlas,” Sebastian, on the other hand wants to stop the tension between the brother but Atlas throw him a death glare that made Sebastian stop.

“Stop me or I’ll kill you too.”

This is not right. Atlas won’t kill his friends and his brother. No. He’s not a killer. The Atlas he know was soft and always pissing him off.

“Dude, cool off, okay? We’re sorry-”

“Sorry?” Atlas clutch Sebastian collar and yank him. “Sorry?! I already told you don’t do any stupid! Don’t ruin my plan and don’t throw a damn party!”

“I’m sorry-”

“I told you, Sebastian to not disobey me when I order you. I told you, Sebastian that Race didn’t like party, drinks and smoke. Yet, you disobey me by letting his motherfucker to throw a party! Look around, it look so mess!” Atlas shove Sebastian away.

Race saw what happened. It looks not real. The party, the drinks and the smoke that goes to his lungs and knock him off. Until now he’s steadying his breath.

“It’s his birthday, right? We should throw a party, brother. He likes party and smoke,” August laugh as he hand a cigarette at Race but Atlas slap his hand away.

“Stop it, August.” Atlas warned his brother before Atlas reach for his hands and pull him away from the house.

Race didn’t argue. He let Atlas pull him even though his heart is stomping hard at his ribcage.

He wanted to be mad at Atlas because of his threat to his brother but he can’t. Atlas is defending him and even know that he hates cigar and drinks.

“I’m sorry,” Atlas says, voice still dry. “You shouldn’t see that. I’m a mess.”

Race didn’t speak, everything seems not real to him.

Atlas threat his brother to kill him.

Atlas threat his friends.

Atlas defended him.

Atlas punch his brother when he puffed a smoke to his face.

Atlas being mad at his friends and brother because they throw a party.

Atlas being mad because he saw drinks and cigar.

Atlas is something else.

“Wait for me here.” Atlas said before Race can response, Atlas walk back to house and he left there speechless and catching his own breathe.

That smoke did something to his lungs and makes his heart beat fast. For a second, when August puffed his smoke to his face, Race life flash to his face.

A minutes later, Atlas back with a food container in his hands.

“I’m sorry,” Atlas said, this time his voice is soft and tender like something didn’t happened earlier.

Soft Atlas is back.

“Why are you throwing tantrums earlier?” He ask the man whose still holding the container.

“Get in the car.” Atlas order and Race didn’t ask twice as he get in.

Atlas drove away from the house, he can’t hear a loud music anymore.

Maybe they stop after what happened earlier.

“I’m sorry,”

“You said it three times,” he look at Atlas, jaw clench and Race saw a tension in his body.

“I’m sorry. I’m mad-”

“I can see that.” Race nodded.

“I’m mad. I already told them no party, no drinks and smoke but they disobey me,” Atlas tensions grows more. Eyes becomes dark. “And my brother, he puffed his smoke at you, Race.” Atlas inhale an air.

“It’s nothing. I’m fine,” lie. He’s not fine. “Why did you do that anyway?”

“For fuck’s sake, Race. You still don’t get it, do you?”

“I need an explanation.” He retorted.

Atlas rolled his eyes.

They suddenly stop, Race roamed his eyes around and saw nothing but a bunch of trees.

“Let’s go outside.” Atlas said, holding the food container and he followed the man outside-in the dark.

“What are you doing?” Race frowned deepen as Atlas fix the container at the back of his car.

“Picnic.”

“Yeah,” Race roamed his eyes again. “Picnic outside. Dark and cold nights. Trees surrounded us and it is soooo damn comforthing here, Atlas. Perhaps later, a wild animals eat us instead.”

“Duh, don’t be afraid. I’m here and no one will eat you here, dummy.”

Atlas back being Atlas.

Always pissing him off.

He likes it.

“You didn’t answer my question,” Race hopped at the hood of the car just like Atlas did.

Atlas snaps his head towards him, no trace of amusement in his eyes. “You really wanted to know?”

“Yeah.”

The man stared at him for a while before he exhale. “It is obvious that I like you very much, Race. I even confessed my feelings to you and got rejected-”

“I didn’t.”

“So, basically, I’m mad at them because they’re ruin my plan of celebrating the birthday of the man that I like.”

Race lips parted.

“Funny right? Me? Planning or a birthday party and wanted to surprise you? Nah, it’s not my thing,” he looks away. “I didn’t do this things, Race. I’m not found of birthdays but for you? I fucking learn how to cook! I burned myself because of my failed cooked! I almost burned the house down just to know how to cook because that friend of your who names Bridgette defy me the other day. She said she’ll cook you because it is the tradition and she asked me what will I do in your birthday and I am damn pissed off because of that girl. So, here I am, I watched tutorial in youtube and finally, I perfect my cook-I mean not so perfect but it pass in my taste. I finally made it and it looks like a food to me after a weeks of learning!

You did that to me, eh? I fucking learned how to cook for you. I shouldn’t do it because you didn’t even care for it. Bridgette already cooked for you and I’ll guess that you already ate her cook and you praise her for being a good cook. But, damn hell. I won’t back out. I don’t care if you like her more than me. Just fucking eat this and let’s enjoy the night. It’s your birthday and we shouldn’t talk about this. But what happened earlier is not find with me. August puffing his smoke to your face? No tolerance. You don’t like smoke. You hate it and I think it is bad to your health and I care for your fucking health, Race. That’s it. Did I satisfy you with my heart warming confession?“

Atlas curse and laughed.

Race couldn’t talk again. He’s taken aback after hearing this. Atlas always makes him speechless. It’s so familiar. Him being so stunned after Atlas talked. Atlas always cuts his tongue out and chase his words away.

“Don’t tell me you’ll reject me again?” Atlas laughed and saw a pain in his eyes before it disappear. “Let’s not talk about it. Let’s eat-”

“Are you asking me out?” Race said, looking at Atlas.

“Me asking you out?” Atlas laughed again, awkward this time. Atlas brushed his hair and even in the dark, Race saw a red in Atlas’s cheek bone. “Am I that so obvious?” He added, almost a whisper.

“Uh-huh.” Race nodded surpassing a smirk.

Wow. Atlas asking him out.

“Don’t laugh at me, I’m still pissed.” Atlas rolled his eyes. “Let’s eat.”

And they eat in silence and Race didn’t want this night to end.

Later on, Atlas grab something at his pocket and shove a keychain to his hands.

It’s not just an ordinary keychain. It’s a crochet keychain and it looks like him.

“Don’t tell me you did this too?”

“I tried. It looks so horribly cute.” Atlas can’t meet his eyes.

Race can’t help it but smile.

“Let’s visit my mother tomorrow.” He said.

---

Atlas can see it in Race face that he’s terrified over something. They are now at the cemetery, after their class they drove here.

“She died when she gave birth to me. She didn’t make it, her heart gave up.” He said.

Atlas couldn’t take off his eyes away from Race.

Last night was a dream come true for Atlas. Race didn’t rejected him but ask him to go with him at his mother grave.

It’s a good thing. Race is letting him in in his life. They getting better and everything feels better.

Atlas look down at the keychain at Race’s bag.

It’s not perfect. It looks horrible but he did all his best to made this. Even it’s not perfect, Race accepted it and ate the food he cooked and even praise him for being a good cook.

Atlas smiled. He can’t hide his smile anymore.

This man makes him happy.

“But…my dad, he found his true love…”

Atlas back to reality.

Found his true love…and that is the Servantes.

But Race didn’t finish the sentence, it’s like he’s timid to said it.

His daddy found his true love and it is a man and Race being shy of saying it because Race thinks he’ll disgusted.

Atlas already knows that his daddy married a man. And their nothing to be ashamed of.

“You’ll be stun after you saw my parents and after you see them,” Race said as they walk silently inside Race house.

“No way. I think…I’m going to like them.” He whispers even though his heart is drumming so hard.

Atlas darted his eyes at the girl sitting in the couch, who look stunned seeing him here.

Bridgette is here.

“Dad, Pa,”

Atlas look at the couple who hug Race.

Atlas inhale before he step in.

“Atlas, my best friend.”

Atlas smiled so lovely and offer his hand at Race’s parent.

“Sir, I like your son.”

CHAPTER 24

Everyone was silent.

They are all seated in the dinning table, food are served and they eat in silence.

Atlas can feel the Race’s nervousness beside him. Mr. Servantes and Mr. Montevero seated opposite to them and Bridgette seated beside Race.

Atlas hate it, but he didn’t show it.

Race is nervous. His hands are trembling. Atlas wants to hold it to keep it calm but even him, his hands are trembling under the table.

He shouldn’t trembling. He shouldn’t feel fear. He goes to battle, he saw people die-he even killed people. He saw pool of blood from the people. He fought and he almost killed on time in his mission years ago but he didn’t feel any fear. His hands didn’t trembled and he didn’t feel nervous going to a battle.

But this? Race parents watching him eat and their eyes are intent. Atlas hardly swallowed the food because he thinks that his every move the Servantes and Monteverde watched him, perhaps they are finding a flaws or mistakes to kick him out of this house.

After of his confession in front of Race’s parents, everyone went silent. Atlas thought that everyone turned into stone because they all freeze even Race, watching him with eyes wide open and parted lips.

That time Atlas thought that Race perhaps want to punch him and kick him out.

He didn’t regret it though, he thought that it is the best thing to do. There’s nothing to hide and maybe today or maybe yesterday, Atlas felt something changed.

After the long moment of silent Hades cleared his throat and laughed awkwardly and told them it’s time for dinner.

Although, it’s early to eat dinner. It’s five in the afternoon.

Suddenly Mr. Monteverde spoke. “Did you know this, Race?”

Race flinched and looked at his father. “Know what?”

“That-” Isaiah pointed his thumb towards Atlas. “That boy likes you?” He asked.

Atlas brow rose.

Boy?

“Um,” he can feel Race glancing at him before he answered. “Y-Yes…he confessed,”

“Two times,” Atlas added, looking directly at Isaiah’s eyes. Atlas seems not frighten but deep inside he’s shaking. “And today. It makes three times.”

Deep inside he quivered, he’s fighting the urge to avert his gaze. He can’t meet Race’s parents’ eyes.

Deep inside he’s terrified that Race’s parents’ might see something inside him. He’s terrified that they will find the secrets he kept from his son and to them.

It’s his biggest fear it that they’ll find out who truly he is. But Atlas know that sooner or maybe later Race’s parents’ will drag him out of here when they know his name.

He also fear the thought of Race’s parents’ don’t like him for their son. Specially when they find out his secrets.

“Name?”

And his heart just went out from his rib cage.

This is what he fear.

They will hate him after they’ll know what is his name.

Atlas swallowed the fear, he keep his cool and didn’t show any weaknesses.

“Atlas…” He hesitated. “ Atlas Zubiaga , Sir.“ He didn’t looked away, he fight the stare and fight his own fear.

Mr. Monteverde stared at him, brow rose and he tilted his head.

Atlas breath becomes heavy, heart pounds so loud and fast.

“Family background?” Isaiah added.

He swallowed again. He can feel his sweat streaming down his face and feel the sweat in his palm. He rubbed it in his pants and shakes his hand to lose the tension.

“My family run a business,” he responded.

It is true. His parents run a business but it is not just like what they are thinking.

His parents run an illegal business. They didn’t do legal transactions but they do it illegal. The government didn’t knows it.

“What kind of business?”

Isaiah asked more.

“Perhaps let’s go to living room and continue out little chit chat there, babe?” Hades interrupted and Atlas was very thankful.

Hades always saved him.

“Sure.” Mr. Monteverde wipes his hands with the tissue and stood up. Hades and Isaiah go first before the three of them followed.

“Sorry,” Race fell a step beside him. “Are you okay?” He asked.

He smiled and nodded. “Didn’t know that you cared for me,” he smiled wickedly.

“You looked scared.”

“Scared? Not in my vocabulary,” he shook his head and looked straight. “What’s that by the way?”

“You’re trembling,”

“Maybe your house is cold?”

“The cooler was turned on,”

“Not enough maybe. It’s too cold for me.”

“You flinched when daddy asked about your name, you hesitated.”

That made him stop and he blinks his eyes. “I didn’t-”

“Stop denying. You’re scared.”

Atlas sighed. “I can handle myself.” He said before he followed the couple.

Umupo si Atlas sa katapat na upuan ni Mr. Servantes at Mr. Monteverde. May hawak-hawak na chess si Hades, siguro may balak siyang makipag laro kay Atlas pero sa hindi mapalagay si Atlas sa kinauupuan niya. Para siyang nag-aalab sa kaniyang upuan, hindi niya alam kung ang upuan nga ba niya ang nag-aalab o dahil grabe kung tumitig si Isaiah sa kaniya na para bang kinikilatis talaga siya at binabantay ang bawat galaw niya.

He won’t back out. Hindi siya nagpatalo sa mga nakakatakot na titig ni Isaiah, nilabanan niya ito sa titigan.

Isaiah squirted his eyes and tilted his head.

“Babe, kung hindi lang niya inamin na gusto niya si Race baka inisip ko na may gusto kayo sa isa’t isa,” Hades pouted.

Dahil sa pagsingit ni Hades ay naputol ang titigan nilang dalawa. He felt Race seat beside him and Bridgette beside Race.

Nagpipigil na naman si Atlas na pumagitna sa dalawa. Ayaw niya talagang nakikitang nakadikit si Bridgette kay Race. Kumukulo ang dugo niya. Sa madaling salita. He’s jealous.

He didn’t forgot when Bridgette defy him. Naiinis pa rin si Atlas kapag naaalala niya ang pangisi ni Bridgette nang hindi niya alam kung kailan ang birthday ni Race, para bang ngiting tagumpay ang pinakita ni Bridgette sa kaniya.

Atlas looked at the couple, they talked silently and then Isaiah looked at him again.

Atlas prefer Isaiah’s talking to his lover. Nawawala kasi ang nakakatakot nitong mga mata na kapag tumititig sa kaniya. Isaiah’s soft when it comes to his lover and his son, so Atlas understand why Isaiah acted like this, staring at him like a cat.

“Are you dating my son?” Isaiah asked.

Race coughed beside him and Bridgette made a noise.

“N-No, dad-”

“Yes, Sir. I asked him out yesterday. I thought he’ll reject him but instead he invited me here to meet you. We even visited his mother.” Atlas said confidently, he wanted to smirk when he saw Isaiah frowned.

“So you two are dating?”

Before he can respond, Race interrupted.

“Not official.”

He snaps his head towards Race. Looking at him questionably. “What do you mean ‘not official’?”

“I’m still confused, Atlas. All of this stunned me. I don’t know what I feel about you. I didn’t know. I’m a man perhaps that’s why I’m still confused.”

Kumunot ang noo ni Atla at buong katawan na niya ang hinarap kay Race.

“You’re still confused if you’re a gay or not?” Diretsahang tanong ni Atlas.

“I’m attractive both gender. I like girl and I like boy-”

“No way! You can’t like both at the same time-” he panicked.

“Silly! You know what I mean, Atlas.” Race blow a breathe.

“I don’t know what you mean,”

He desperate to know.

“Why are you sooooo confused?” He added.

“What if this is not what I felt? What if it will disappear. What if what I felt to you is wrong?”

Atlas made a face. “For fuck’s sake, Race. I don’t care about your what if’s. All I wanted to know what did you feel about me.” He cupped Race’s face.

Suddenly, he forgot that three pair of eyes are watching at then silently. But him and Race forgot about the audience.

“Tell me what did you feel,” Atlas voice become soft, he stared at Race like he’s a diamond and he held Race like a glass, afraid to broke it.

“My mind said I like you-”

“That’s it!” Atlas exclaimed. He can’t help but smirk. “You like me and I like you so much. Who cares if we both have penis? We likes each other and I’m asking you out and I’ll make this as official.” The smirk in Atlas’s face didn’t disappeared as he stared at Race’s eyes.

“We’re dating…and it’s official.” He said.

They looked at each other eyes.

Para silang hinihigop sa isa’t isa na naghihila sa kanila para maglapit silang dalawa. Parang may mga magnet sa katawan nilang dalawa at pareho silang nahihirapan na lumayo sa isa’t isa.

Atlas’s eyes drop at Race’s lips and he swallowed as he stared at it. He can’t help but lean closer. Heartbeat so fast and loud. He thinks that his heart is in his ear. Atlas heard nothing but only his heart beat for this man in front of him.

This man made his heart beat like this. This is not a normal heart rate. He thought that his heart might went out to his rib cage.

He’s thinking about kissing Race, what would it feels to kiss Race? He wanted to taste the sweetness of Race. He wanted to devour Race’s lips until he can’t breathe.

Someone cleared a throat and suddenly, they both back to present. Race flinched and jerked. Atlas remove his hand immediately at Race’s face and swallowed hard.

Fuck. I forgot.

“Don’t think of eating my son, Mr. Zubiga,” Isaiah said in a cold and stone voice.

Fuck.

Atlas’s cheek bones flushed. It went scarlet. If earlier, he can fight the intense stare of Race’s father, but now he can’t even lift his eyes. Nahihiya na siyang salubongin ang mga mata ng ama ni Race, kahit nga si Race sa gilid niya ay hindi rin makatingin sa kaniyang mga ama.

Nang nag-angat ng tingin si Atlas ay naabutan niyang nakatulala sa kaniya si Hades at nakabuka ang labi nito na para bang hindi siya makapaniwala sa kaniyang nakita kanina. And here’s Isaiah, staring at his son with full of love and understanding.

Atlas realized that even if Isaiah doesn’t like him for his son, but he still a father and he loves his son. He won’t take the happiness that Race felt right now. And perhaps, he understand his son because he experienced this too.

“Zubiaga,” suddenly, Isaiah tore his gaze towards him. “Let’s talk. Alone.” He added.

Atlas blinks three times, he looked at Hades who suddenly recovered from the shocked and looked at his lover.

“No way-”

“For God’s sake, Hades. I’ll talk with that boy. Alone. I’ll not flirt with him,”

Neither I.

“Anong pag-uusapan ninyo?” Asked Hades, still curious.

“Something important-” Isaiah stood up and he followed with a hard swallowed.

“You’ll toast the boy.”

“I don’t care. If he’ll back out then he’s not deserving for our Race.” Isaiah started walking towards the dinner hall.

“Oh, boy. Isaiah will toast you with his questions.” Hades shook his head and Atlas realized.

Isaiah’s not done asking him question about his family. He knows that Hades knows about his family he just didn’t show it. On the other hand, Isaiah didn’t pretended. He wanted to asked about him and his family for Race’s sake.

Isaiah knows that Atlas is dangerous. His family is dangerous.

Ang dami tuloy pumapasok sa isipan ni Atlas dahil sa pag-uusap na ito.

What if hindi papayag si Isaiah na magdate sila ng anak niya?

What if pagbabantaan siya na layuan ang anak niya?

Kinalimutan na muna ni Atlas ang kaniyang mga iniisip at tinuon na muna niya ang kaniyang atensyon sa lalaking grabe kung makatingin sa kaniya na parang tinotosta na talaga siya.

Hades was right. Isaiah will toast him not just his question but he’ll stare.

Sumandal si Atlas sa mesa na may kalayuan kay Isaiah.

“You’re the Zubiaga’s youngest children.” Isaiah started.

He didn’t hesitated to nod his head. There’s no point on lying. They already know him so what is the point of lying?

“You know the dangerous when you date my son.”

He nodded again. He’s aware. That’s is one he feared of. That’s why he’s protecting Race.

“Then why are you still here? You should go away, you are our enemy, Zubiaga. We both know that your family hates us and we both don’t know what will they do if they find out that you’re dating your enemy’s son.” Isaiah was dead serious.

He’s aware of that too. Matagal na niyang pinigilan ang kaniyang sarili at lumayo kay Race pero habang tumatagal ay tanging gusto na lang niya ay ang mapalapit sa binata.

“Besides you’re still young, perhaps this is just your exploration. You’re curious and perhaps…your feeling toward my son will disappear.”

Atlas respect this man but at what he just said? He lost the respect. He groaned.

“I truly respect you, Sir, but don’t belittle my feelings toward your son,” he said. “I know you’re worried about your son, I am too. I didn’t know what to do if something bad happen to him. I tried, I really tried to stop this but can’t. I kept on denying my feelings but it gone deep beyond my soul.” Atlas takes a deep breath and stared at the man who seat opposite to him, but the man didn’t talk so he continue.

“I know the danger since I admitted to myself that I like your son. I know that when my family knows about this…they’ll kill me or Race-but I won’t let them take Race away from me. I-I…It’s my first time to feel this way and it’s a man. I’m confused too. I don’t know what to do. I kept on denying because we both man and it’s my first time to feel this toward a man.

My family warned me about this…they-they already suspected that I have someone special in my life because I am little bit distracted this past few months and they-t-they warned me to stay away if I don’t…they’ll kill him-but they didn’t know that I like a man and not a girl. And then-“ he gulped, sweat in his forehead. “I wanted to quit. I told them that I will quit because I don’t want to do it anymore, I don’t want to do this job anymore. I’m tired and…I won’t put Race into danger because of me. I wanted to quit so I can have my peaceful life-”

“But even if you’ll quit they’ll still kill you and my son.” Isaiah interfered.

His voice is very dangerous, it also his stare. It brings cold to his body and Atlas feels the hair of his neck stood up.

“Yes,” he confessed. He looked at his feet. “I said I quit and then they suspected that it is because I have someone outside my work. They threatens me that if I quit they’ll find the special one and make that person suffer. I’m…not afraid. I’m not terrified that they’ll kill me and this job will kill me but since Race came and he stayed in my soul and makes my mind crazy, all I feared is that I’ll lose him. I feared that one day he’ll hate me if he find out what I did.”

Mariing pinikit ni Atlas ang kaniyang mata. He can feel his heart throb and he wanted to clutched it so hard because it hurt so bad. Masakit sa kaniya dahil kahit anong gawin niya ay wala siyang takas sa mga magulang niya. His parents are cruel, they’ll do everything just to have the things they wanted.

If his parents wants someone to be kill and they’ll do it because if they didn’t his father will punish them to death.

Hindi lang din ’yan ang kinakatakuan ni Atlas. Sa oras na malaman ng pamilya niya na may relasyon siya sa anak ng kanilang kalaban ay paniguradong gagamitin ng pamilya niya si Race para patumbahin ang Monteverde at ang Servantes, dadating din ang araw na ipapatay ng mga magulang niya si Race and he knows he can’t do that.

“I’ll die if he die,” Atlas whispered just enough for Isaiah to heard.

Isaiah tsked. “You know that it won’t happen. If my son die you’ll live. It’s just figurative right?”

“I gave my heart to your son the day that I admitted to myself that I like him. I gave my heart and if he’ll die I’ll die with him because my heart is with him.”

Isaiah stared at him for a moment.

“My son will not die. I will protect him-”

“We will.” Atlas cuts him off even if he don’t like it.

But he’s afraid that his family will find this. Napapansin niya ang taong sumusunod sa kaniya. Kahit hindi niya pinapahalata ay napapansin niyang sinusundan siya ng tauhan ng mga magulang niya. Paniguradong nakita na nilang nagsama si Atlas at Race and perhaps ni report na ito sa mga magulang niya. Hindi magtagal ay ipapatawag siya ng mga magulang niya para sa balitang ito at dapat handa na siya.

Hanggang sa kaya niya ay po-protektahan niya si Race. Kung kailangan niyang magsinungaling ay gagawin niya para maprotektahan si Race. He’ll do everything to protect Race.

Lies will protect him and Race from danger.

CHAPTER 25

“I didn’t know that you two are dating ,” Bridgette and him are walking towards their first subject. “How long you’re dating Atlas?”

“I didn’t know we’re dating,”

“What?!” Bridgette hissed and stopped. “H-How-b-but he said yesterday that you’re officially-”

“I didn’t know it until yesterday,” Race sighed and rubbed his face using his palm.

He wanted to punch Atlas after he said that in front of his family, he really look confidence confessing his feelings. Race was stunned to speak, he felt like his feet nailed in the floor and cat got his tongue’s out.

Sana naman sinabihan siya muna ni Atlas kung ano ang sasabihin niya, hindi ’yong bigla-bigla na lang magsasalita na ikaka atake pa ata niya sa puso. Akala nga ni Race kahapon ay aatakehin na siya sa puso dahil sa mga sinasabi ni Atlas.

At isa rin sa kinakatakotan ni Race kahapon ay ang reaksyon ng mga magulang niya sa lahat ng mga sinasabi ni Atlas. Race didn’t know if he believed Atlas. He said many things yesterday that makes Race mind hazed. Parang ang lahat ng mga sinasabi ni Atlas kahapon ay hindi totoo. Hindi talaga makapaniwala si Race na sabihin lahat ’yon ni Atlas lalo na’t napapansin niya rin sa binata ang takot at kaba na nararamdaman nito.

But still, when Race looked at Atlas’s eyes to saw a glint of lies but there’s nothing there. He only saw the confidence and all truth in his eyes. He’s not lying, he said that truth and it makes Race’s heart pound so fast.

All what happened yesterday is like a dream to Race, it doesn’t felt so real. He didn’t know that someone like Atlas likes him. He didn’t even saw that a man likes him and he didn’t saw this coming that he’s officially dating a man.

He always dreaming dating a woman and not a man. He always dreaming a woman he’ll date, he’ll introduce to his family but it turns out he’s dating a man.

The world really changed.

“You really looked stunned after he said to your father that he likes you,” Bridgette shook her head as they sit in their table. “You looked like you wanted to punched Atlas and bury him alive but you we’re there, just standing and staring at him.” Bridgette smiled.

Pabirong sinuntok ni Bridgette ang balikat ni Race. “Ikaw ha, hindi ko talaga inakalang kayong dalawa ang magdate,” ngumisi si Bridgette na ikinailing ni Race. “I thought Atlas was straight! I thought he likes girls because I heard that he had a lot of girls when you two haven’t met yet.”

Race felt something in his stomach but he ignores it.

He’s not jealous.

“Hindi ko inakalang babaliko si Atlas, noong una akala ko ay dumidikit lang siya sa’yo dahil mag kaibigan kayong dalawa tapos palagi ka pa niyang inaasar. Halos ganiyan naman ang magkakaibigan kaya hindi ako naghinala pero noong birthday mo ay naghinala ako na hindi lang kaibigan ang kikitain mo.” Bridgette wiggled her eyebrows.

“What’s with that look?” He asked, bored.

“Was it Atlas that you met that night?”

Ngumuso si Race, nagpangalumbaba siya sa kaniyang mesa at tinuon ang mga mata sa white board.

“It doesn’t matter.” As he said that his heart pounded again.

He felt alive. He didn’t felt this before. He thought that he might get a heart attack.

“I knew it!” Bridgette hissed and all of their classmates head turned towards them.

Bridgette made a peace sign and shouted silently. “I knew it! I knew it! I knew it! Ohhh my, gosh!”

“Behave, Bridge,” he warned.

“I can’t. You two are dating and you two look so good together! Omg! I didn’t saw this coming,” Bridgette still hissing. “I liked Atlas because he’s handsome and mysterious but don’t worry Race, I’ll stop what I feel towards him. He’s all yours. I don’t like him anymore.”

Pinipigilan ni Race na iikot ang mga mata niya dahil sa kakulitan ni Bridgette pero hindi niya maiwasang mapangiti habang nanatiling nakapalumbaba sa kaniyang mesa.

Mine.

After class him and Bridgette walk to cafeteria then suddenly Atlas showed up and when he saw Bridgette on his side, Atlas frowned.

“Didn’t I cleared yesterday that me and Race are dating? Didn’t I?” Atlas emphasized the word dating.

“We’re friends, what do you expecting us to do? Stay away from each other?” Race countered.

Atlas squinted his eyes at him at sinalubong ito ni Race.

“And don’t expect that I’ll stay away from my friend and don’t you ever mention it ’cause I wouldn’t do it,” diretsong tinignan ni Race si Atlas sa mga mata nito. “Bridgette comes first and she’s my friend. Even we’re dating you can’t order me to stay away.” He added.

Hindi nakapagsalita si Atlas, nanatili lang siyang nakatitig kay Race. Ilang sandali pa ay parang gusto nang bawiin ni Race ang sinabi niya kanina dahil tingin niya ay nasaktan si Atlas sa mga sinasabi niya.

Pero mali naman kasi na magalit si Atlas na magkaibigan silang dalawa ni Bridgette. Hindi naman puwede na palayuin ni Race si Bridgette dahil nagde-date na silang dalawa. Matagal na rin silang magkaibigan ni Bridgette at ayaw niyang abandunahin si Bridgette dahil lang nagseselos si Atlas sa kaniya. Isa pa kaibigan lang naman ni Race si Bridgette at wala naman silang ginagawang ikakagalit ni Atlas.

“I didn’t say that you’ll stay away from your friend,” Atlas said in a low voice. “And I’m sorry if you felt like I wanted you to stay away from Bridgette.” Atlas added.

He’s really sorry, from the look of his eyes and his low voice.

Nagulat ata si Atlas sa mga sinasabi ni Race.

“Um, Race,”

Bumaling si Race kay Bridgette na nahihiya ng salubongin ang mga mata ni Atlas. “I gotta go.” She said.

Tumango si Race at pinanood na umalis si Bridgette hanggang sa sila na lang dalawa ni Atlas sa labas ng cafeteria.

“I’m sorry,” Atlas whispered as they started walking away from cafeteria.

“I’m sorry too.”

As they walked, silence fell. It’s deafening, mga yabag lang ng sapatos ang naririnig nila at ang mga lantang dahon na naapakan nila.

Then suddenly, Race felt something brushed on his hand. It’s warm. He didn’t mind it but after a moment, that warm thing brushed again to his hand.

And he realized it is Atlas’s hands. They are close to each other, shoulder are touching and hands brushed at each other. But Race thought that it really Atlas intention to brushed his warm hands on his like he Atlas wanted to hold his hand but Atlas hesitated.

“Let’s date,” Atlas said from nowhere.

“We’re dating,”

“I mean, let’s eat outside.”

Natahimik si Race habang papalabas na sila sa gate.

Date. They will go out for a date. Sounds strange for him but feels so good.

“Where?” He asked.

“Oh, I know a place.” Atlas said with full of enthusiasm and was about to hold Race hand but he drop his hand immediately and instead Atlas grabbed Race’s bag’s strap.

He’s afraid to hold me? Race thought like looking at Atlas.

Afraid? Why did he hesitated?

On the other hand, Race likes to hold Atlas’s hands too. He wanted to feel the warmness of Atlas’s hand and what it feels in him.

Iniwala ni Race ang kaniyang iniisip at tumabi na kay Atlas sa paglalakad ni hindi niya alam kung saan sila pupunta.

   * * *

They stopped at the Espresso, it takes minutes to arrived at the place if you walked.

Atlas kept on glancing towards Race. Earlier he made a mistake, he didn’t know that Race will reacted like that.

Yes, he admitted that he’s jealous when he saw Race and Bridgette walking together. He can’t help it but felt bitter in his tongue down to his stomach and something in his chest squeeze as he saw the two. He knows that feeling because he felt it before when he saw Race with Bridgette.

He knows that the two are friends before he even met Race. He’s jealous of that too. He hope that Atlas met Race before he met Bridgette. But doesn’t change a thing. Perhaps, he’ll just overcome this jealousy.

They’re dating anyway. Race and Bridgette are just friends, but what he is for Race? Atlas knows that they are officially dating, but does it consider that he’s Race’s boyfriend? Or just a man he’s dating? That’s just their label. Dating.

Not boyfriend-boyfriend. Just dating.

He doesn’t know that him and Race will end up together after this dating. What will happen after this dating stage? How can he know that they are in a relationship? Like boyfriend-boyfriend and not just dating?

Because of that thought, Atlas can’t help it but asked.

“What am I to you?”

Race tilted his head, studying his face like a cat.

“Are you thinking about what happened earlier?”

He didn’t hesitated to nod. “I’m just curious,” he leaned in. “You called Bridgette as friend, that is your label.” Atlas hate to mentioned Bridgette but he continue. “What about us? What’s our label?”

Race went silent for a moment. Race just staring at him. Atlas thought that he perhaps heard his heart thumped to hard in his ribcage as he waited Race to answer.

And then Race said. “You’re my best friend,”

Atlas stopped, tilted his head and something pain hit is heart.

Best friend. Just best friend? Is that what Race thought of him? Just his best friend?

Atlas didn’t know it. Atlas thought that he’s something special to Race.

“But we’re dating…Am I just your best friend?” He can’t help but asked, pain stabbed his heart.

He blink, trying to blink away the pain.

“Bridgette is my friend and you are my best friend,” Race rest his chin at his palm and tilted his head like he’s enjoying this moment because he smiled at him sweetly.

Pain, suddenly vanished. Just like that. Just a one smiled from the man he like, the pain he felt earlier just disappeared.

“What’s the difference?” He asked, leaning back at his chair.

“Of all my friend, you are my favorite. You are my best friend, you are my favorite.”

Nawala ata saglit ang hangin sa baga ni Atlas dahil hindi kaagad siya naka hinga pagkatapos iyon sabihin ni Race. Pakiramdam niya ay kinuha ni Race ang hangin sa katawan niya at bigla siyang nakalimot huminga.

“Why are you so stunned, Atlas?” Race smiled.

Atlas looked away, he felt the heat in his cheek bones. He messes his hair, can’t meet Race eyes.

“Still, I’m j-just your best friend,” he folded his arms against his chest.

He hope he can stopped what he felt today. His heart was in merry. He can felt joy inside him and wanted to explode.

“Not just my best friend,” Race leaned in to whisper. “You are my favorite best friend. My favorite person.” He then smiled that makes Atlas heart melt.

This time, Atlas wanted to grabbed Race’s neck and kiss him and devour him. This man makes him joy. His heart is in joy.

Favorite person.

His favorite person.

It sounds so good to his ear. He didn’t stop repeating it in his mind. He can’t. Perhaps, he’ll carry this infinitely.

“Aw, Race being soft spoken person,” Atlas grinned. “I love it. It makes my heart fluttered.”

“Don’t flutter yourself, Atlas.”

“Oh, but you make my heart beat so fast,” his grins wide as he saw Race cheeks become red.

“It’s normal when people are delusional.”

Kahit na sa sinabi ni Race at sa pag deny nito ay hindi pa rin niya mapigilang mapangiti. Kahit anong deny ni Race ay iba pa rin ang sinasabi ng mga mata nito.

“By the way, what did you and my father talked about yesterday?” Umayos si Race sa kaniyang kinauupuan at mariing tumitig sa kaniya.

He just shrugged his shoulder. There’s no way he’ll tell Race about this. He doubted that if he told Race about his job and his secrets Race might stay away from him or hate him to death.

He’s afraid to tell Race about his secrets. He can’t lose Race. He can’t. Kung kailangan na itago kay Race ang totoong ginagawa niya para maprotektahan ang lalaking kaniyang nagugustuhan ay gagawin niya. Gagawin niya ang lahat para maprotektahan si Race kahit pa magsinungaling siya para may Race.

Kahit pa na magalit si Race sa kaniya na hindi niya sinabi ang katotohanan, ayo lang sa kaniya basta maprotektahan lang niya si Race. Hindi naman pangmatagalan ang sekreto niya, alam ni Atlas na hindi matatagal ay malalaman ng mga magulang niya ay ang mga sekreto niya at malalaman din ito ni Race.

Ang kinakatakutan ni Atlas ay ang dumating ang panahon na malaman na ng mga magulang niya ang relasyon niya kay Race. Hindi niya gustong isipin kung ano ang mga gagawin nito sa kaniya at kay Race. Kung dadating man ang araw na ito ay hindi siya magdadalawang isip na kalabanin ang mga magulang niya.

“You’re quiet,”

Race pulled him back to present.

“What did you asked again, Race?”

“I said, what did you talked about with my father yesterday? I’m curious,” Race shrugged his shoulder. “You stayed there for long. Perhaps you and my dad talked too long.”

“Oh,” Atlas leaned in and wicked grin flush to his lips. “I’m afraid I can’t tell you. It’s a secret, bubu.”

Race brow furrowed. “Bubu?”

Ngumisi pa lalo si Atlas dahil sa reaksyon ni Race. He love teasing Race, he love to watched Race reaction. He love making him pissed.

“I heard Mr. Servantes called you ‘bubu’,”

Gustong matawa ni Atlas dahil lalong lumalim ang gitla sa noo ni Race.

“My papa used to call me ‘baby bubu’ when I was a boy,” hindi pa rin nawala ang pagkunot ng noo ni Race. “But a baby and a boy today. I’m a grown-ass man, Atlas.” Race added.

“Yes, I can see that,” Atlas grinned and leaned in. “You’re a grown beautiful man and you’re my baby bubu now.”

Atlas waited for Race’s reaction.

He waited. Waited. Waited. Waited and he burst out laughing.

Atlas laughed so hard when he saw Race head fall back, hiding his eyes with his arms. Atlas saw Race’s shoulder is shaking. Perhaps, he’s laughing.

Napuno sila ng tawanan, wala silang pake kung may nakakarinig man sa kanila na tumatawa ng malakas o kung ano man ang tingin ng mga tao sa kanila basta ang importante ay pareho silang masaya ngayon.

Atlas wanted to stay like this infinitely. He wanted to see Race full of joy. He wanted Race to feel joy because it makes his heart in joy. Atlas didn’t wanted this to end.

“It’s raining,” Race stretched his arms and rain drops on his palm.

“I didn’t brought my car.” Atlas scratched his head.

“Perhaps the café might have an umbrella,” Race said. “Stay here. I’ll buy some.” He then disappeared to buy an umbrella.

Minutes later, Race back with two black umbrella.

“And why did you bought two?” He asked, sulking while reaching for an umbrella.

“What’s wrong with that?” Race asked.

Bumuga ng hangin si Atlas at wala na siyang nagawa kundi ang buksan ang payong. Labag sa kalooban niyang maghiwalay sila ni Race ngayon, nagsisi tuloy siya na si Race ang pinabili niya ng payong, kung siya sana edi isa lang ’yong bibilhin niya.

“You shouldn’t have bough two,” said Atlas as they started walking under the rain.

“Don’t worry, I won’t let you pay me. If you like, you can have this umbrella.”

Atlas can’t help it: he rolled his eyes.

Wala talagang alam na kasweet-an si Race o baka kulang lang talaga siya ng asukal sa katawan. Hindi rin alam kung paano lumandi.

They both silent as they walked slowly. Tanging butil lang ng ulan ang nagpapaingay sa paligid at ang mga tunog ng mga dumadaan na sasakyan.

Nakasimangot pa rin si Atlas dahil hindi niya nakatabi sa iisang payong si Race at nang sumulyap siya kay Race ay kalmado lang ang mukha nito habang siya ay wala sa mood, nakasimangot siya.

He tucked his hand inside his pocket and walked slowly, ni isa sa kanila ang naglakad ng malakas parang gusto rin ata ni Race ang sulitin ang first date nilang dalawa.

“You don’t like rain?”

Since they started walking it’s the first time that Race talked to him.

“No,” he said at sinipa ang inosenteng bato sa daan.

“Why are you sulking?”

He tsked. Atlas realized that he dated a man who lacked of sugar in his body and can’t feel someone’s feeling.

“I hate it now.” Sinipa niya ulit ang maliit na bato.

“Care to tell me why?”

“No.”

“Why?”

“No.”

“Why no?”

He stopped and looked at the man who called him earlier that he is his favorite person in the planet but he didn’t want them to share at the one umbrella.

“I hate rain because you didn’t want us to share at that stupid umbrella,”

Mukang nagpipigil ata ng kaniyang tawa si Race. “Bakit mo sa ulan sinisi ’yan? You should he mad at me and not at the rain.”

“I can’t!” He hissed. He tried to hate Race because of that. All he wanted is to share with him at the same umbrella. Hindi naman niya gusto na mag-isa-isa sila ng payong.

“Why?”

Atlas hit the bigger rock as he hissed, “I can’t-” but before he can kicked the rock he slipped and his ass touched the wet road. “Fuck.” He hissed.

Race on the other hand bursts out laughing. Head fall back as laughed harder. His laugher filled the place, even the rain getting heavy and noisy Race’s laugh is all Atlas can hear.

Atlas surrendered. He put down his umbrella and let the rain dumped his hair and shirt.

“And that’s the karma.” Race laughed harder. Hitting his knees as he continue laughing in the top of his lungs and head fall back.

Hindi napigilang mapangiti ni Atlas. Napapikit siya at dinama ang pagpatak ng ulan sa kaniyang mukha. Ngayon ay basang-basa na siya at lalo pang lumakas ang ulan.

“Here. Let me give you a hand,” Race stretched his hands but he didn’t stop laughing. “You look like a wet chick. Where’s your mommy chicken, Atlas?”

Ngumuso si Atlas at tinanggap ang nakalahad na kamay ni Race pero imbis na tumayo siya ay hinila niya si Race palapit sa kaniya.

Atlas didn’t let it slipped. He tugged Race down and cupped Race’s neck. Their mouth touched and everything’s slowed. Race went stilled for a second but later on he finally relax, hands drop to his side as they kissed. Race’s umbrella makes them invisible to the people who passed by.

Nakaupo si Atlas sa basang daan habang si Race naman ay nakaluhod at nasa ibabaw ni Atlas. Slowly, their eyes met. Slowly, Atlas grins and stole an another kiss.

Race eyes widen. Atlas grins grow widen.

“And that’s your karma for laughing hard at me.” Atlas voice was hoarse and eyes were gentle.

“Who look wet chicken now, hm? Baby bubu ?” Atlas tilted his head.

“You’re so unbelievable!” Race hissed and stood up.

Ngunit sa pagkakataon na ito ay hindi na niya nilahad pa ang kamay niya para tulongan si Atlas sa pagtayo. Race crossed his arms agains’t his chest and can’t looked at his eyes.

“Give me a hand,”

“I won’t repeat my mistake again.”

“Aw, I’m hurt. I didn’t know that kissing me was a mistake.” Atlas stood up and picked up his umbrella to fold it. He can’t use it anymore, he already wet.

Race started walking again, leaving him behind. “Let’s go-”

Atlas was so fast. He hold Race hand and folded Race’s umbrella. Race eyes wide as the rain drop on Race’s head. They are both soaked right now.

“I’m afraid you wouldn’t need an umbrella anymore.” Atlas smiled so sweetly and started walking, leaving Race behind.

“You’re an asshole.” Race whispered behind him.

“And this asshole stole your first kiss.”

Atlas said and licked his lips. He can’t help it: he smiled.

Sooo sweet. Lips so sweet. I’m afraid that one kiss is not enough for me.

CHAPTER 26

Race felt this way before when he was in grade school, he’s 9 years old when he felt this hell.

Race was sweating, he’s panting and catching for his breathe. He felt his body and it’s burning hot. That’s when he realized that he’s burning fever, but it’s not about his fever.

It’s about his heart.

His father run him to hospital when he’s 9 because he had palpitation. His heart squeezed so tight and he can’t move because his body was weak.

Race groaned and trying to reach for the button that connected to his parents’ room. Isaiah put this button in case he felt something in his body-specially in his heart.

Just like now. He woke up with sweat all over his body and he’s catching for his breathe like someone take away his breathe.

Race swallowed hard and tried to open his eyes and moved to the side of his bed to pressed the button. In just a simple moved, his body drained and he felt more weak. His body was weak.

Race successfully pressed the button, but his body can’t take it anymore.

He collapsed on the floor.

 * * * 

First thing he saw when he opened his eyes was his daddy Isaiah who looked worried for him.

Isaiah cupped his face, “thank God!” Worried flash in Isaiah’s eyes, but it’s not just worried, but also feared. “How’s your feeling? Are you hurt? Did you feel something on your body?” Isaiah boomed him question after question.

“How long did I slept?” He asked, voices are weak.

“Two days, son. You’ve been unconscious for two days.” Isaiah caress his hair, worried was written all over his face.

“I can’t really imagine the horror I felt when we saw you on your room’s floor, laying there unconscious and you’re burning hot, Race.” Isaiah put his forehead to Race’s. “I’m so damn worried, son. I don’t want to remember again the first time we almost lost you.” Isaiah’s voice quivered.

Race heart squeezed, but he didn’t show it to his daddy. Isaiah’s been worried about his health. “Dad, I’m fine…”

“When we heard the button, your daddy and I rushed to your room. I remembered, my heart was throbbing so fast and so fucking terrified in the thought of you,” Isaiah take a deep breathe. “It’s been a long time since you felt this way. It’s been a long time since you have a palpitation and we both don’t know what to do because we’re shocked. The first time you have a palpitation was when you’re nine years old and we can’t lose you, son. We can’t take it…”

Isaiah’s eyes shimmered, tears slid from his eyes but Isaiah wiped it immediately.

Race didn’t want to see his father like this. He’s hurting when he saw his father cried because of him, because of his damn stupid heart.

He don’t want to see his parents cry because they though he’ll die because his heart palpitated and his breathe weaken. Race remembered when he first open his eyes all he saw was his fathers crying beside him and they are praying and begging for him to comeback to life and don’t leave them behind.

It’s hurt to heard it. It makes his heart more in pain and that time he promise to took care of his health, specially of his heart because he can’t stomach seeing his parents cried and in pain.

“I’m alright, dad.” Race showed a weak smiled and hugged his daddy. “I’m not gonna die.” He added to ease what his daddy felt right now, but it seems it didn’t make Isaiah’s alright because he cried more.

“Fuck,” Isaiah swore. “I won’t let you leave us.”

“I won’t leave. I’ll choose to stay.”

The door creaked opened and Isaiah and Race both looked at the door when Hades stepped in.

“Hey, Pa,” Race greeted Hades.

Hades tears was about to slipped, yet Hades wiped it and stormed towards him.

“You,” Hades voice cracked. “You made me worried.” Hades musses his hair.

“I’m sorry…”

“No need to say sorry,” Hades said and hugged him an Isaiah. “Thank you for not leaving us.”

A moment later Isaiah said. “Ugh, this is so cringe. Don’t tell your boyfriend about this. He might laugh at us.”

“Nah, that boy won’t laugh at us. Can’t you see how he looked at our son?”

Isaiah tsked. “Yeah, it annoys me that he stared at our son like he’s his life.”

“That boy is fucking in love with our son. Don’t you agree?” Hades laughed.

Race’s cheeks flushed as he listen to his parents talking about Atlas.

Race suddenly flinched when he remembered Atlas.

It’s been two days since he’s unconscious and he didn’t know what happened to Atlas.

“Did Atlas reached for me?” Race asked, cutting the conversation between his parents.

He’s worried about Atlas. That man might called him many times and perhaps Atlas was worried about him too because he disappeared for two days.

Isaiah cleared his throat and stand straight. “Yeah, that boy was irritating. He always called us and asking for you,”

“He kept asking where were you. He always bagging us and he won’t let us sleep at night. He kept on calling and asking your whereabouts. We already told him that you’re busy and no one should distract you, yet he didn’t believed us so we told him that you’re not well that you have fever and you need to rest. So, finally he stopped and he said he’ll wait for you to recover but he also suggested to visit you here instead so he can rest because he said his life was in hell when he didn’t saw you and damn worried about you. He also said that he might die if he can’t see you.”

Race flattered at what he heard. His heart throbbed not because of his sick but because of Atlas. He really can’t believed it that Atlas really said it in front of his parents. He really have a guts to said it.

“But we didn’t told him what really happened,”

Race looked at his daddy. “Why?”

Isaiah sighed and caressed his cheeks. “It’s for you to decide if you’ll tell your boyfriend about your condition or not.”

Race cheeks went scarlet, he can’t meet his parents’ eyes.

“He’s not my-”

“Don’t feel shame, son. Atlas told us that you two are exclusive. He’s your boyfriend and we’ll support you.” Isaiah cuts him off.

He felt bad for Atlas for denying their relationship. Race kept on denying Atlas why that man didn’t felt shamed of saying that he’s his boyfriend.

Race felt guilty. He shouldn’t deny their relationship because there’s nothing to he shamed of.

I don’t deserve him. He thought.

“About to your condition. We didn’t tell Atlas about it because we want you to decide it for yourself if you tell your boyfriend or not.”

Race heart shattered into piece. He starred at the ceiling thinking of what would he do.

His heart shattered at the thought of Atlas bagging at their door and asking where he is because he’s worried.

His heart shattered into pieces because he can’t tell Atlas about this. He need to lie because he can’t stomach seeing Atlas hurt. That man will hurt if he knows about his condition and Race was sure that Atlas will change if he knows.

Perhaps, Atlas won’t treat him like a strong man but see him as fragile and perhaps Atlas will lessen their outdoors activities because of his condition. Hindi na magagawa ni Atlas ang mga gusto niyang gawin kung sasabihin niya ang kalagayan niya. Knowing Atlas, tatalikuran niya talaga ang mga gusto niya para lang sa kaniya at hindi ’yon gusto ni Race.

He wanted Atlas to experience the world. He wanted Atlas to enjoy. At kung malalaman ni Atlas ang kalagayan niya, malamang hindi na ’yon magagawa ni Atlas pa. Kapag sasabihin niya ang kundisyon niya baka itutuon na lang ni Atlas ang atensyon niya sa kaniya at sa pag-aalaga sa kaniya dahil sa kalusugan niya. Ayaw naman niyang ituon lahat ni Atlas sa kaniya ang atensyon niya at ayaw niyang iwan ni Atlas ang mga gusto nitong gawin at pigilan ang binata sa mga nais nitong gawin dahil lang sa sakit niya.

Telling Atlas about his condition was like giving a burden to Atlas and stopping him to do the things he wanted.

Lying to Atlas was much worse decision but it will makes them happy thought.

Lying means it makes for both of them to continue their life without a burden to their shoulder and without them worrying Race’s health.

After of deciding, Race finally looked up to his father who stared at him worriedly.

He doesn’t want Atlas to stare at him like that. He wanted Atlas to worried nothing.

“I won’t tell him,” he said.

His parents looked at each other and then sighed. Race understand that his parents didn’t like his decision, but still they support him.

“Your doctor will visit you here later and check your condition, also he prescribe me a medicine for you to take everyday.”

                  * * *

When the doctor said that he can go home now, his parents took care of his things and pay his bills after that they drove back to their home.

Race stepped out to the car and he stopped and stared to the man who sitting down in front of their giant gate.

Race heart shattered and wanted to rushed to Atlas and hugged that man but he can’t. His doctor told him earlier to took care of his heart and don’t exhaust himself.

“Atlas,” he called his boyfriend.

Slowly, Atlas opened his eyes and looked at him.

His heart squeezed and opened both of his arms, inviting Atlas to rushed and hugged him.

Atlas didn’t let any time to spend, he stumbled to his feet and Atlas rushed to Race’s embrace.

Atlas buried his face to Race’s neck and inhaled his scent. Atlas embraced tighten like he was telling Race how much Atlas missed him.

Race was fighting himself to from telling Atlas what happened. He can’t tell Atlas about his condition, he already made his mind. He’ll lie because it seems the best way.

“Fuck, I missed you damn much,” Atlas whispered against his neck.

Race patted Atlas’s back. Even his heart was shattered he’ll fought and swallowed the pain. “I’m fine and…” Race squeezed his eyes shut, nothing to be shamed off. Atlas was proud to be his boyfriend and he should be. “I missed you too.”

Atlas leaned back and cupped his face. Worried written all over his eyes and he checked Race for a damage when he saw nothing Atlas hugged Race again.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry…”

Race almost stopped breathing when he heard Atlas’s voice breaking.

His heart beat shaking.

“Why are you saying sorry?” He tried to cupped Atlas’s face but Atlas buried his face back at Race’s neck.

“I’m sorry. I’m really sorry. It’s my fault. I’m so sorry-”

“Atlas, for God’s sake. What are you sorry for?”

This time Atlas faced him, his eyes were read like he was about to cry.

“It’s my fault. It’s my fault, i-if I didn’t let you-”

“Breath, Atlas. Breathe,” Race whispered. “There you go. Breath, Atlas.”

When Atlas finally relax and all the tension in his body fade he said. “It’s my fault that you catches cold. If I let you used your umbrella you wouldn’t catch a cold. If I didn’t let you to played in the rain with me, you wouldn’t catch cold.”

“It’s not your fault-”

“It is my fault,” Atlas cuts him off. “I’m so sorry, baby. I’m so sorry.” Atlas whispered as he kissed on Race’s forehead and he rest his forehead against Race’s.

“You didn’t know how worried I am,”

“I thought I know,” Race smiled. “My Papa told me how you bagged at our door asking where I am.”

“I think I lost my soul when you didn’t answer my call and when your father told me that you have a fever and you need to rest.” Atlas leaned back to stared at him at his eyes. “Your father wouldn’t let me see you. They won’t tell me where were you so I waited here outside your gate.”

Race glanced at the gate then back to Atlas. “Did you know that I’ll go home today?”

Atlas shook his head. “No. Your father didn’t tell me. Sir Hades called me yesterday that you’re fine, so I waited here but didn’t know that you’re coming back.” Atlas explained.

God you gave me a wonderful man.

Race just smiled at Atlas who was staring at him worriedly, Atlas check his body then put the back of his palm at Race’s forehead and neck to check if he still have a fever.

Atlas was serious when he did that like Race’s was holding his life.

“Baby, are you alright? Do you feel something strange? Do you feel like your burning? Do I have to call a doctor? I have a friend and he’s a doctor, I can call him to check on you.” Atlas kept on touching his forehead and his neck. “Do you want something? Do you need something? Are you hungry? Did you eat something while you were at the hospital? Did you feel pain? Did your body feel weak? Did you-”

Race can’t help but smiled as he listen to Atlas while his boyfriend was checking on him. His body felt joy, this is the first time that he felt something like this.

Something like contented, joy, and his heart never felt this way before.

“Atlas,” he called his boyfriend. Atlas stopped checking on him and stared at his eyes, in instant worried flush to his eyes.

“Are you okay? Are you hurt?” Atlas cupped his face.

He shook his head and held Atlas’s hand. It’s cold because he’s been staying outside for how many hours.

“I’m fine…I just want to ask you something.”

“What is it? You won’t asking me to leave you right?” Worried and fear flush to his eyes but it vanished immediately when Race shook his head. “Then ask me, baby.”

Race took a deep breathe before he said. “Did you felt shamed for being my boyfriend? Even once?”

Atlas brow furrowed, the line of his forehead deepened. Face was serious. “No! Why would I felt shamed? I’ll shout your name and tell everyone that you’re my boyfriend, Race. I won’t feel shamed of you.” Then Atlas stared at him for a moment. “Why? Did you felt shamed for being my boyfriend?”

Race immediately shook his head. “No. No. I’m proud to be yours.” He whispered.

Atlas eyes shimmered and it crinkled. Something shone in his eyes and Atlas slowly leaned in, closed his eyes and parted lips.

Race took a deep breathe and closed his eyes, he’s waiting for Atlas’s lips to touch his.

Then something cleared his throat. “Boys, get inside,”

They both jerked and snaps their heads toward the man standing at the gate. When they didn’t move Hades cock his head. “Get in.” He repeated and they both moved.

“And Atlas, try not to eat my son alive.”

They both blushed.

                   * * * 

They eat in silence. Race can felt the stare of his parents, they are watching him and Atlas.

But seems, Atlas didn’t felt those stares because he’s busy putting all the food in his plate.

“You should eat veggies, it’ll help you to feel better. It also help you to recover quickly,” Atlas sounds liked his daddy Isaiah when he have had a sick when he still a kid.

“That’s enough, I can’t eat all of this.” He said and motioned his hand on his plate.

Atlas brow furrowed at stared at him. “But you need to eat more, baby. It helps you to recover fast, okay? After you eat, take your medicine and go to your room and take a rest, hmm?”

Jesus, Atlas more worse than to his daddy but why does he felt joy in his heart? He’s happy and he felt light inside of him while Atlas was treating him like this.

It does makes him so special.

“I’ll take care of myself, now eat.” Race said and motion his hand to Atlas’s plate that Atlas didn’t touch.

“Yeah, I’ll eat later if you’ll done-”

“Atlas, eat.” Race cuts him off and they both stared at each other.

Atlas sighed and nodded his head. “Okay, fine. But eat all of this, okay? You should eat more to restrain your energy. You’ve been unconscious for two days and didn’t eat anything. You must be hungry right now.”

“I have dextrous, Atlas. It help me not to feel hungry-”

“You should eat a real food. Dextrous is not real food.”

Race almost rolled his eyes and didn’t argue more. He can’t win this arguments when his opponents was Atlas. But even Atlas forcing him to eat this food on his plate, he still smiled and shook his head.

Race was crazy. Why it makes him happy when someone specially Atlas was ordering him to eat?

Race stopped smiling when he felts an eyes staring at him and when he lifted his head, his eyes darted to his parents who was watching at him and perhaps they saw Race smiled and cheeks flush.

Immediately, Race averted his gaze and felt shamed because his parents saw him like that.

Later on, Hades cleared his throat to catch their attention. “Son, Atlas was right. You need to eat more and take your medicine after and get some rest.”

“Yes, dad.” He said.

“I’m sorry, Sir,”

Race snaps his head towards Atlas who spoke. He stares at his boyfriend, confused written all over his face and Race was waiting for Atlas to say something.

“Why are you saying sorry?” Isaiah asked, serious.

Atlas glanced at Race’s daddy. “It’s my fault why Race have had a cold,” Isaiah lifted a brow. “The day before he have a fever, we played in the rain. He doesn’t want to get wet but I forced Race and folded his umbrella. If I listen to him, maybe he won’t catch a cold.” Atlas eyes were full of regrets.

Race looked at his feet. He felt guilty for not telling Atlas what really happened. It’s not Atlas fault that he catches cold, it his heart who triggered.

His daddy told him that his first palpitation when he was a nine years old and they found out that he have a heart disease, at first his fathers didn’t know where Race get that disease then the doctor said it is a history.

Race get his disease because his mother have had a heart disease and it is the reason why his mother died when she’s giving birth to Race because her heart gave up.

When Race was nine years old, his heart triggered because he was exhausted. Race exhausted himself that time because it is a family day and he played a lot and that’s when his heart triggered and had a palpitation. Just like Isaiah said, they almost lost Race back then. Race almost die, his heart almost gave up. His breathe was weak he’s catching his own breathe but luckily Race survived.

Since then, Race took care of his health. He didn’t want to exhaust himself that much that can cause trigger in his heart. He stayed away from those people who using cigarette and he didn’t drank liquor. He ate healthy foods and he do exercise every morning. That’s why he run every morning.

Every time his colleagues invited him for a drink or club hopping he immediately rejected it because he didn’t want to trigger his heart and it will cause of his death.

That’s the reason why he doesn’t want to have relationship. He doesn’t want to enter in every intimate relationship and didn’t commit because he doesn’t like the idea of leaving his lover behind if he died.

It much worse to leave the love of his life behind. The idea of leaving if parents when he died much worse, then if he have a lover and he died it much hurt more.

That’s his promised to himself. He won’t enter to any relationship, he’ll leave alone and he’ll grow up with his parents.

But he didn’t realized that he fell in love with Atlas and all he wanted was to grow up with Atlas.

Yet, he can’t tell Atlas what his really condition because it will change everything.

Atlas will change. Atlas will treat him like a fragile. Sigurado rin si Race na kapag nalaman lahat ito ni Atlas ay hindi na magagawa ni Atlas ang kaniyang gustong gawin dahil lang sa pag-aalala sa kalagayan ni Race.

Race won’t stop Atlas to do what he wanted. Race will be there whatever he do and wherever he go and whatever adventures he’ll face.

Lying will makes them move smoothly. Lying makes eliminating their burning. His disease was a burning of their happiness and he won’t let his burden to change anything.

CHAPTER 27

Atlas can’t take off his eyes on Race. It’s been a week since Race got sick and Atlas regretted what happened. He always blamed himself even Race told him several times that it’s not his fault, yet Atlas wouldn’t forget himself for what he’ve done.

Atlas believed that it’s his fault why Race catch a cold. Because of his stubbornness, Race catches a cold.

After what happened he’s cautious now. He always thought Race’s health. He won’t let that happen again even if it just a normal fever just like Hades said to him but Atlas believed that it not just a normal fever because Race run to hospital, maybe Race have a serious condition, but Atlas brushed away his thought and he stared Race.

“You didn’t tell me about your family, you didn’t talk about them even once.”

Atlas flinched and averted his gaze. He doesn’t like to talk about his parents, there’s nothing to talk about.

“You didn’t want to know them,” he said in a stern voice, he wanted to switch the topic, Atlas didn’t want to talk about his parents.

“Why? You didn’t want them to meet me?” It’s just a normal question.

“No,” Atlas said. “Yes…I mean, Yes. I don’t like them to meet you-”

“Are you shame to tell them that you have a boyfriend-”

“-no! I’m not shamed, not even an inch.” He protested.

“Then why you didn’t want me to meet them?”

Race stared at him.

It’s a sunny afternoon and they are sitting under the shadow of a Nara tree. They don’t have class today, so they stayed under the shadow of Nara.

Atlas felt the stare of Race but he can’t meet them. Atlas wanted to meet Race his family, if his family was not complicated and chaotic. His family doesn’t deserve Race. They doesn’t deserve to meet Race.

This man is so wonderful and his family was the villain.

“They’re cruel,” he said after a moment of silent.

“Parents are not cruel.”

Atlas smiled. He hoped that he can said that too but can’t. He can said that his parents are not cruel. He witnessed how cruel his family is.

“Trust me. I know my family well and they’re not nice just like what you though.”

“I want to meet them-”

“I’m afraid not,” Atlas eyes darkened, he looked at Race without amusement in his eyes. “You’ll never meet them. When I said they’re cruel, I meant it. They are dangerous and my family is the last people you’ll wanted to cross path. I love your parents, Race but my parents are not like yours. They are cruel.”

Atlas averted his gazed. His jaw clenched and shoulder stiffed. His eyes darkened at the thought of his family.

Atlas still felt the presence of his parents’ spy. Even they will hide, Atlas can see them. Kaya nga minsan ay nilalayo ni Atlas ang kaniyang sarili kay Race dahil iniiwasan niyang magduda ang spy ng mga magulang niya. Ayaw ni Atlas na mag report ang mga ito sa mga magulang niya na may relasyon sila sa anak ng kalaban nila.

“Okay, I understand…” Race whispered.

Slowly, Atlas looked at Race’s eyes but Race looked away immediately, yet Atlas saw the fear in Race’s eyes.

Atlas’s emotion suddenly change. If he’s surrounded by darkness earlier and his eyes were deadly, now it change when he saw fears in Race’s eyes.

Race was terrified. He’s terrified of him.

Atlas squeeze his eyes and swore. Goddammit!

“Look,” Atlas sighed and face Race. “I was trying to say that…um, If in multiverse my parents was not cruel, then I’ll introduce you to them because the world deserve to know you. But, they’re cruel. They don’t deserve you, Race.” They don’t and I will protect you from them.

“Of course…I understand, Atlas. You don’t have to explain-”

“I’m sorry…” Atlas cuts him off. “I’m sorry because I can’t made myself to tell you about my family. I-I’m-I’m not proud that they’re my family.” Atlas lower his head, he can’t meet Race’s eyes. “Am I cruel too? Is it bad to hate my family?” He finally looked up.

Yet Race stared at him with full of understanding. Race didn’t looked at him like he’s a monster and cruel for hating his family. He understand. His eyes spoke and it understand him.

“No. You have your reason why you hate them. You can tell me if you’re comfortable,”

“I’m comfortable with you. I-I…I-I just don’t want to talk about them.”

“Sure.” Race said and patted his back.

Moment later, Race spoke. “Me and Bridgette will come to our house-”

He jerked. His emotion vanished and jealousy replaced it. Atlas brow furrowed and eyes squinted at Race’s. “What?! Why you didn’t tell me?”

“Hey! That’s why I’m telling you right now-”

Atlas tsked and crossed his arms against his chest. “I don’t like your friend,”

“Well, you can’t do anything about my friend. As I told you, you are my favorite best friend and nothing’s change.”

Atlas tried to surpassed his smiled, but no he have to remain mad (acting mad). “Why are you going home with your friend then?”

“Oh my, God. Stop acting like a kid, Atlas. Stop sulking and pouting it’s not cute.” Race said but he laughed at him.

Me? Sulking? Pouting?

No way! I’m just jealous.

Atlas just jealous.

“You know that I am beautiful and wonderful. It is why you like me, eh? You like my beauty,”

“Come on, stop sulking you’re not cute.”

Atlas didn’t move to his place, he still acting mad. Napansin ni Atlas na tumitingin sa kaniya ang mga dumadaan. Atlas cleared his throat, yet he still sulking and pouting.

This is not fucking cute.

Then why am I acting like this in front of Race?!

He needs to stop but can’t.

“I’ll go with you,” he said, finally he stand. Arms still crossed against his chest. “I won’t let you two alone in your house. I don’t trust your friend, maybe she’ll kiss you when she have an opportunity and steal you away from me. I won’t let that happen.”

Race rolled his eyes and sighed. “Stop exaggerating everything.”

“I’m not exaggerating. I’m protecting what’s mine, baby.”

Atlas straighten when he saw Bridgette walking to their way. On the other hand, Atlas didn’t saw Race’s blushed and smiled when he said that. He just made someone fluttered.

“Hey, Bridge!” Atlas greeted.

“Hey, Atlas. Hi, Race,” Bridgette waved her hand at Race.

Atlas frowned. Bridgette didn’t felt the intense stared of Atlas’s eyes. He’s watching her with a hawk eyes.

“Atlas, stop watching her like that.” Saway ni Race sa kaniya. Ngumiwi lang si Atlas at tumabi kay Race.

Aakbayan na sana ni Atlas si Race nang biglang tumayo ang balahibo sa likod ng leeg niya. Natigilan si Atlas at lumipat siya ng puwesto. Tumabi siya kay Bridgette at pasimpleng tinignan ang taong nakaupo lang sa may bench, akalain mong hindi siya nagmukhang spy ng magulang ni Atlas dahil sa pananamit nito at para lang din siyang estudyante-no, he’s more like a professor with golden brown hair with glasses. He looked like a normal person just like others, but no. Atlas was not naive, he knows that that golden-brown-hair-man is his parents’ spy. To follow him around and report it whenever he found something to use against him.

Sinadya talagang lumipat ni Atlas sa tabi ni Bridgette para makita niya ang spy ng magulang niya.

He’s being watched. He need to take care every move. He need to stay away from Race and stop doing something crazy around Race. Hindi hahayaan ni Atlas na makapansin ang spy na ito sa relasyon niya kay Race.

“Let’s go.” He said.

He need to be more cautious.

---

“You told me that you’re here to make your project,” Atlas crossed his arms while looking down at his boyfriend and his friend Bridgette laying on the floor. Basically, they haven’t done anything, they just lay there and sleep.

Brainstorming for 5 minutes and sleep for 2 hours.

“I need to do something to be productive,” Race yawned and stretched his arms and stood up.

“Oh, God! I cannot to anything today! That project drained me!”

Atlas frowned at Bridgette before he followed Race upstair. But in the middle of the staircase, Atlas thought that it is a wrong idea to followed Race upstair.

“Where are you going?” He asked.

“Bath.” Race answered simply.

Namula ang pisnge ni Atlas habang sunod-sunod na pumasok sa kaniyang utak ang mga larawan ni Race na naliligo.

His grin turned wicked. Atlas cleared his throat and waited for Race to invite him inside his room. Ever since they started dating, he haven’t entered at Race’s room. Now is the best timing!

“Where’s your parents?” He asked, so casual like he didn’t plan on joining Race on his bath.

“On work,” after 2 turned Race opened the dark brown wooden door.

Atlas smiled widen and everything was so bright. He can felt a spotlight behind him as he smiled at Race who stared at him, bemused.

Race lifted his brow, he looked at Atlas likes Atlas was crazy for smiling.

“You looked like a creep,” Race stepped in his room and Atlas was about to followed but Race stopped him midway. “Stay here. I’ll be back soon. You can stroll around but don’t make any stupidity, hm?” Then door shut behind Race.

The spotlight earlier went out, everything was black and Atlas was left alone outside Race’s room. His shoulder fell as he walk back to the path.

He thought he can shower with Race today, yet it didn’t happened.

“So freaking dumb-I mean numb for not feeling something!” Atlas mumbled. “The feeling was so intense! He should felt the heat then he shut me up!” He’s sulking and feet stumped on the floor like a kid.

Bababa na sana si Atlas sa hagdan nang mahagip ng mga mata niya ang isang painting sa left wing-papunta sa kuwarto ng mga magulang ni Race.

Ngunit imbis na bumaba si Atlas ay nakita na lang niya ang kaniyang sarili na naglakad palapit sa painting.

Atlas stopped in front of the weird painting. He tilted his head as he study the painting.

“Who the hell will bought this kind of painting?” He whispered and inspected the painting.

Below the painting, the name written there. Perhaps the name of the painting and it said: Inside of every heart there’s a treasure living in it. Perhaps, it’ll open by a good hand. In this cruel world, I, the man who lost in every stroke of my brush, lost in the palette, yet I found my treasure and it’s in my painting. A treasure that no one would take away from me.

“Really?” Atlas squinted his eyes to study the painting but he didn’t saw any man on the painting. The painting was a totally messed!

Atlas didn’t understand the meaning of the painting, for him it’s a messed. And why would the Servantes and Monteverde bought this ugly painting?

It has also the signature of the painter below the name of the paint.

Von Sukulov Malforie III

Hmm, an international painter. He’s not Vincent Von Gogh who had weird painting. Atlas thought. Though, the paint was a messed. It looked ugly. Atlas thought that he can pain better than this one.

“You’re face told everything what’s on your mind,” Race appeared on his side.

Atlas wanted to sniffed Race. He wanted to buried his nose on Race’s neck and inhale every scent of him.

Atlas basically addicted to Race’s scent. He wanted to stole Race’s body soap so he’ll smell like this man beside him.

Looking fresh Race glanced at Atlas who was still in shocked and lips are parted.

“Stop staring at me like that,”

“Staring at you like?”

“You’re a creep.” Race shook his shoulder and stared at the painting in front of them.

“You’re face told that this painting was ugly,”

“Geez. Don’t tell your parents or they’ll kick me out.”

Race laughed a little and it feels like a music in his ears.

“I’ll tell them.”

“Baby, where’s your loyalty?” Atlas turned to faced Race and hugged the man, he finally did what he wanted to do earlier. He inhale Race like it’s his oxygen. Sighed of contented left his mouth. “Fuck, you smell good. I can inhale you everyday.”

Atlas wanted to wrap his legs around Race’s waist, but Race tapped his legs. “Do you know this artist?” Race pointed the name.

“Who is he? You’re ancestor?”

“No silly!” Race laughed and pinched his nose before he continue. “My father bought this painting because Von Sukulov Malforie died after he painted this-”

“And what’s the special? Everyone dies,” Atlas rolled his eyes, he still wanted to wrap his legs around Race’s waist.

He can’t let go Race right now. Race was like his drug, he’s addicted to this man. Atlas arms was still around Race’s shoulder and any minute now he’s thinking of wrapping his legs around Race’s waist.

“-Von painted this because it resembled something. My daddy said that Von wanted to say something through this painting-”

“Did his ear cut?” Atlas interfered.

“No! He’s not Vincent Von Gogh!” Race glared down at him.

Atlas smiled and rested his head on Race’s should, arms still wrap around his shoulder an Atlas purred like a kitten.

Damn, he looked like a crazy bastard man here. It looked grossed and cringe, yet he still acted like kitten around Race.

“Then what’s so special on this painting?” Atlas asked, bored. “It’s looked totally messed to me. Your parens bought the wrong painting, they didn’t have a good taste on painting.”

“I will tell my daddy about this. I’ll tell what you said to them-”

“No way!” Atlas jerked to looked at Race’s smug face then arms back on Race’s shoulder. “I wanted to impress them so tell them the opposite, hm? You’re not anti-Atlas, right? Help me then.”

Atlas acted like kitten again who longing for his fur parent to patted his head.

“Nah, I’ll tell them the exact word you said to me,” Race smiled, eyes still fixed on the painting.

No. Atlas was not jealous with that ugly painting.

“Oh, by the way. My dad told me that something special with this painting so he bought this one,” Race. “But you’re not wrong. I found this painting horrible.”

Atlas grinned widen and it turned to laughed, he can’t take it anymore. He grabbed Race by his neck and devoured the man. Lips touch each other, until Race parted his lips that indicated Atlas to pushed his tongue inside Race’s. They kissed like they’re the oxygen and they kissed like it’s the end of the world.

Atlas breaks the kissed, lips still parted and smiled touched their lips as they stared at each other. Race’s rest his forehead to Atlas’s.

“I told you, we are good match.”

And they kissed again like there’s no tomorrow.

---

Every time Race and Bridgette have to do their school works, Atlas go with them because he knows that Bridge and Race was making their school works at Race’s house and every time Atlas had a time, he’s grabbed Race upstair in front of the painting and kissed until they both can’t breathe, until their lips was swollen.

The best things come to my life. That’s Race. Atlas thought while staring at Race who slept on the floor with Bridgette.

Atlas was so shocked when he didn’t felt any jealousy when he saw Bridge and Race like this. He finally made up his mind that Race and Bridgette is just a friend and Atlas is Race’s favorite best friend.

Race didn’t called everyone his best friend and it made Atlas different and special because he’s Race’s first best friend and now his favorite best friend (person) in the planet.

Sa ilang araw na rin nilang sinama si Bridgette rito ay tinuring na ring kaibigan ni Atlas si Bridgette, but Race still Atlas’s favorite, nothing change and no one can replaced Race.

Atlas admitted to himself that it not just a simple like that he felt towards Race.

It’s not like.

It’s love.

The powerful one.

If it is not love, then why does he felt like he wanted to tie Race at him? Why does he felt scared at the thought of Race being hurt. Why does he gets jealous easily when Race smiled at someone (Bridgette was exceptional.). Why does he felt joy when he’s with Race? Why he felt contented when Race was with him? Why does he love seeing Race happy and he love hearing Race laughed at his humor. Why does he acted like a kitten around Race? Why does he imagine the future with Race? Why does he see Race with him in the future? Why does he thinking marrying Race? Why does he wanted to stay with Race? Why does felt he’s dying at the thought of Race leaving him behind? Why does he wholeheartedly let Race hurt him? Why does it felt this way?

It is because he’s in love with Race, right?

He’s in love and he’ll marry Race someday. Atlas will do anything for Race. Atlas will protect Race.

Even he’s in the middle of the war. He’ll protect and stay with Race.

No matter what.

Race go deep to his soul. Race dived in the depth of his soul and he invited Race to his brain and locked the man inside. There’s no going out.

Atlas sighed of contented and moved beside Race.

You wrecked me. Atlas thought. But for you, I’ll embrace you.

You’re the death of me. Atlas thought. But you’re the death that I will happily accepted.

“Race,” Atlas caressed Race’s cheeks. “I will give my heart to you and please don’t give it back to me.”

Race mumbled to his sleep and opened his eyes until there eyes crushed.

Race smiled. “Again?” He’s half asleep. “Said that again.”

Atlas take the command happily. “I’ll give you my heart. Don’t give it back because if you do, I’ll die with my heart bleeding.” He whispered.

“Let’s exchange hearts, then,” Race whispered back. “f you are tired to my heart, don’t give it back to me because I am willingly die without my heart.”

“No. I won’t give it back. I won’t let you die without a heart. I’ll die with your heart on me and you’ll die with my heart on you.”

“I told you, we are a good matched.”

They both smiled as their lips crushed.

After their exchange of hearts and they go back to sleep. Atlas woke up because of his phone.

He stood up and picked up his phone.

His brow furrowed when he read the unknown sender.

He opened the messages and he freeze to death at what he saw.

Unknown: not too cautious, boss.

There’s a photo attached to the message and it’s him and Race kissing in front of the painting. It’s taken inside, it means that man broke inside the house.

Bridgette was inside the house, Bridgette was with theme the entire time, so how come this man broke in without Bridgette notice him?

Not impossible when the spy was a professional rubber. He broke in the house and no once notice it. Atlas was not shocked when he saw on one comes in the house when he checked the monitoring room.

That fucker was skilled and he’s dangerous.

Fuck. Fucking fuck!

Another message sent by the same number and another picture was attached.

Unknown: what a lovely couple!

This time it’s him and Race, this photo was captured when they played under the rain and it’s their fucking first kissed!

Atlas gripped his phone tightly. His veins are showing and he’s thinking to hunt this fucker down and killed him and buried him under the fucking Earth!

Unknown: be careful, boss! Don’t carried away with your lust, it’ll send both of you to hell’s pit!

Unknown: I’ll send this to your parents. In 3…2…1…

Unknown: opss! My hand slipped! Any second now, they’ll know and the underground will know!

Unknown: I suggested you two can make a best porno!

Atlas gritted his teeth, his gripped tighten around his phone and it nearly breaks.

“Fucking asshole.” His eyes darkened and jaw clenched.

Atlas: I’ll kill you.

He tapped send and his eyes went red.

All he wanted now is to kill someone.

CHAPTER 28

Their exchange of hearts gave bliss to Atlas. Perhaps when someone heard them talking like that, exchanging hearts (just figurative not literally-it’s like they made vows to each other) just maybe they’ll cringed if they’ll heard them talking, breathless.

It gave light. Atlas came to life again. Atlas admitted that before he met Race, his life was hell, his life was miserable and darkness clouded him like all he saw was black, but now he saw kaleidoscope of colors.

Race brought him to life. Race gave him another reason to live. Race gave him a reason to stay. Race gave colors to his darkness.

Yet, he can’t take off of his mind the message he received two days ago.

This time, Race messaged him to come over because him and Bridgette are coming home (for their unfinished project). Atlas wanted to come because he missed Race even though they met everyday and kissed all day when they’re alone.

Yet, he can’t come today.

He type a reply;

Atlas: I think it’s a bad idea, baby. You need to finish that project.

Race: I miss you.

Atlas shut his eyes. Every day passed Race sometimes initiated their kissed. It makes Atlas happy because it’s not just him who initiated the kiss, it also Race. Also, Race was slowly letting himself to be free, to opened himself.

Race was not timid anymore. He’s not full of confidence.

Atlas: I miss you too. But, if I’ll come over, you can’t finish your project.

Atlas: you need to focus on that one. I have mine to make too. I have some school works to do, so I can’t come, baby.

Race: I remembered you’re not serious with your study. I didn’t even saw you review for your exam.

Atlas: baby, you forgot that I’m a Valedictorian and with honors since elementary! I have a lot of medal. Review is nothing to me. Exam was so easy. It’s basic!

Race: okay, smart-ass.

Atlas smiled at the reply.

Atlas: I love you.

Race: yeah.

Atlas squinted his eyes on his screen. Staring the screen to long until he forgot that he need to go to their headquarter (their turf).

I’ll punish you when I come back, baby.

Atlas shoved his phone back to his pocket and maneuvered his car to their unregulated turf. No one knows about it except Race who he’d bought on his birthday to surprise Race, yet it turns out he didn’t surprise Race because some outsider throw a party and wrecked everything!

Back to the present, Atlas parked at the basement and closed his doors harshly as he stumped inside the turf.

As he expected, he saw his friends on their couch when he come. Of course, they are not shocked when they saw Atlas stepping in, Rile perhaps told them that he’s here.

“I need to relax,” he said and shoved his shirt off.

He grabbed the pistol near him and walked straight to the shooting range.

He shot and and shot and shot.

Gunshot echoed around.

Atlas kept on shooting. He always hit the head and the heart of the target.

When he’s run off of bullet, he throws the pistol away and grabbed the shotgun.

He aimed for the head and the head shattered around. He aimed the heart and the target wrecked.

“Loosen up,” Rile held a bottle of whiskey. Bottle not cup.

“I don’t drink anymore.” He said and he put down the shotgun.

“You really need to loosen up. The tension in your body was visible, you are stiff today, jaw clenched, gritted teeth, narrowed bloodshot eyes and dark smoke around you.” Rile still held the bottle but he shook his head. “I can imagine the horror movie while watching you.”

At last, Rile gave up and put down the bottle and sat at the opposite couch.

“What happened?” Rile asked.

“Some fucker broke inside Race’s house,” his eyes turned dark and brows narrowed. “He sent me pictures of me and Race and it was taken inside the house.”

“Have you checked the surveillance camera?”

“Done.”

“Did you checked place? 360 radius? The house?”

“Already done.”

“And?”

His bloodshot eyes narrowed at Rile. “Nothing. I saw nothing. He work clean and he didn’t leave any traces like some professional and skilled criminal also rubber.” Atlas rubbed his palm on his jaw.

Rile was right, his jaw was clenched. Atlas rubbed it to erase the tension and to relax.

But he can’t relax. He can’t lose the tension. There’s no way to relax when someone broke inside Race’s house. If the spy broken in without everyone noticed then that fucker was dangerous and he need to be more cautious. If he’s careless, then it’s the end of him.

He’s going to war.

“Hmm,” Rile put down his drink. “Maybe the spy was already inside the house before you come in?”

Nagsitayuan ang balahibo ni Atlas sa sinabi ni Rile. If he’ll consider that, then Race was in danger.

“Or maybe the spy can go in and out the house because you know him?”

Atlas stilled. His eyes darker, someone come in to his mind but he shook it off.

“No one can go in and out of the house without us noticing it. It’s just the three of us inside the house and Bridgette was on the living room. She’s sleeping when we slipped or maybe she’s doing their project when I grabbed Race out.”

It’s not Bridgette. There’s no way in fucking hell that Bridgette was his parents’ spy.

“Who’s Bridgette?” Sebastian asked.

It’s the first time he talk since the last time they saw each other.

“Bridgette is Race’s friend. They know each other for years. It’s not Bridgette. She’s not the spy.”

Atlas gritted his teeth and bite his lips. He often do that when he’s thinking deeply or he’s in the situation like this.

“Hmm, did you asked her?”

Atlas shook his head. “No. It’s more suspicious if I ask her. I already saw the enough at the monitoring room and she didn’t leave her place since we left.”

“It is so easy to delete the records, Atlas. If she’s a good at it, then perhaps she deleted the records when she followed you and Race and captured that picture. She can delete that since and go back to her place like nothing happened.”

Atlas shook his head.

No. Bridgette wouldn’t do it. He trusted Bridgette. Bridgette is his friend now. She’s not the spy. No.

“We can’t jump into that conclusion, Rile,” Sebastian interfered his thought.

“Maybe Atlas was right. Maybe, just maybe that spy was a skilled criminal and rubber. We don’t know anything, we can’t throw the accusation in that innocent girl.”

Sebastian was right. He shouldn’t throw an accusation towards Bridgette when that girl didn’t do anything.

Bridgette and Race is a good friend. They have a good relationship and Bridgette won’t let their friendship broken.

Besides, when Atlas felt like someone was staring at him. He saw a man and Bridgette was with them. It’s hard to think that Bridgette was the spy since it’s a man who followed him everywhere.

What if Bridgette was also a spy? It’s not impossible. They can work together perfectly. That man was just a decoy and perhaps Bridgette was really the one who taken that picture of him and Race inside the house and sent it to that man.

It’s not impossible that Bridgette and that man worked together. They can work swiftly.

Bridgette can take a picture and she’s inside the house with them. She can pretended that she’s doing their project and followed them upstair and captured a photo. Perhaps, that man deleted that records of Bridgette sneaking and following them and after that she sent those picture to that fucker and everything back to normal again like nothing happened.

Perhaps, Bridgette didn’t saw anyone coming inside the house because it was her who captured those picture.

It’s possible right.

Yet, Bridgette can’t do that. No. Bridgette was innocent and she didn’t know about the underground. She’s not a spy.

You’re just saying that because you can’t accept that she’s one of the culprit! His mind said and shook his head.

Even if he comes with that thought. He can’t throw the accusation towards Bridgette. They shouldn’t accused Bridgette. What if they’re wrong? What if Bridgette was not a spy?

“Oh, shit,”

Atlas blinked and back to the present when James swore, face on his laptop and he’s brow furrowed.

“Do you found something?” Rile asked.

James lifted his head and shook. “That fucker was good,” he looked at Atlas. “You’re right, he’s damn professional and skilled. He didn’t leave any traces and he also deleted the history when he pry in. The system looked like normal but he’s not good enough like me.”

Atlas lifted his brow. “What do you mean?”

“I mean it that he didn’t leave any traces but damn dude, he totally leave a mark.”

“Are you stupid or you’re really stupid?” Sebastian shoved James.

“Hey! I was born smart! My smart neurons agreed with me!” James protested and he become serious in just a second.

“What I meant by traces was, he deleted swiftly the record when he broke in. It’s so clean you didn’t found anything when you check, but if you dive deeper, that spy leave a mark!” James seems genuinely happy.

Atlas wanted to punched James at the face.

“Jameson Ambrose Martini Éstosé Salvador.” He called.

James snapped his head towards Atlas, eyes dark but he pouted his lips.

“Hey! No one called me by my whole fucking name!”

“Then tell me about that fucking mark he left asshole! Why did you love the thrill?”

James rolled his eyes at him. “Nyenye! For your fucking information, boss. I love the thrill! Stay put your penis and let’s dive in to the deepest pussy!”

Sebastian groaned while Rile massage his temple.

That’s really James real name. His first name came from his great-grandfather and the second name from his grandfather and the last name was from liquor that his father love. Éstosé was his mother’s surname when she’s not married and Salvador from his father.

Atlas really hate that name because it really long. His deepest sympathy to little James because he needs to write those names.

“James,” he called.

James puffed an air and then he said. “I meant by mark was a mark from a not well-known name, hmm…” James stopped and he did something to his laptop then his eyes lit up. “Oh, shit! I knew it!”

He, Rile and Sebastian stumbled to their feet as they run to James to see what he meant.

Atlas eyes widen when he saw the logo.

“That company died a long time ago,” Sebastian spoken his uttered thoughts.

“But it’s back from dead.” James added.

“Maybe, he intentionally leave that mark.” Rile said while eyes stacked on the logo. “James was right. For how many decades it disappeared and now it finally back. The dead is back.”

Atlas settled back to his seat. He stomped his foot on the floor while his mind was working.

“Can I see the message?” Sebastian stretched his hand.

Atlas gave his phone to Sebastian while the man read it his mind backed at worked again.

That fucker. I’ll kill him.

“Oh, he called you boss,” Sebastian throw a knowing looked at James and Rile.

“Hey, hey, hey! Don’t look at me like that!” James exclaimed when he felt Sebastian’s gaze.

“He called Atlas a boss,”

“I’m not a spy. I’m telling the truth, Bastie! Even if you’ll test me with lie detector! I’m not lying! I admit that I called Atlas a boss but I’m not his parents’ spy-”

“James, please breath,” Rile massage his temple and shook his head. “Sebastian is not telling you that you’re the spy.” Rile tried not to rolled his eyes.

“Then-what?! Why he’s looking at me like that?” James panicked. “You’re so creeeppy!” James run to him and shook his arms. “I swear I’m not the spy, boss! I called you boss because you’re my boss, but I swear I’m not the spyyyy!”

Atlas inhale deeply and then exhale. He’s composing himself.

“I know,”

James nodded three times. He looked at somewhere they didn’t know, only James know.

“Who the hell is the spy? Why he’s calling you boss?! I’m the only one who’ll call you boss! If I find that spy I’ll roast hiiiimmm!”

Rile and Sebastian shook their heads while Atlas massage the bridge of his nose and stood up.

“But first, I’ll dig deeper about that dead-who-comes-back-to-life, hmm interesting!” James rubbed his both palm and grabbed his laptop.

---

Atlas stayed at the turf until all night. He can’t show up to Race’s door looking like this-deadly.

He’d done this before, he forgot to control his emotion. Race saw it and Atlas saw the horror in Race’s eyes. It happened on Race’s birthday and Atlas promised to himself that he won’t do it again-he’ll control his emotion, specially when Race was around.

In the morning, Atlas drove to school and the first person he saw was Bridgette.

She’s walking in the gate. She’s alone and an earphone plugged in to her ear.

Atlas stopped his car just to watched Bridgette. While he watched Bridgette, he didn’t saw any hint that she’s a spy. She walked normally, she doesn’t care about her surroundings. She doesn’t seems like a spy to Atlas.

It didn’t leave his mind what they’d talked with his friends yesterday.

Rile suspected that the spy was inside the house before they arrived at the house or maybe the spy was with them-and it’s just Bridgette and him and Race.

Still, Atlas wouldn’t believed it. Bridgette isn’t the spy, she doesn’t looked like one. She’s Race’s friend for years and Atlas believed that Bridgette didn’t captured those photos.

When he couldn’t see Bridgette anymore, he hop out his car and walked straight to the gate. Hands on the pocket. He seems like he didn’t care to his surroundings, but Atlas opened all of his senses.

The spy was here. He’s around and perhaps that spy was watching him now. He didn’t know. That spy was good and skilled robber.

Atlas looked around like he was just watching these students who passed by, but the truth was he’s looking for that man he saw the other day.

That gold-brown-hair-man.

He’s positive. He’s the spy. He looked really suspicious and that man was watching him from the distance.

Yet, he didn’t saw that man again. He didn’t encounter that man the whole day, Atlas tried to find that man around the campos, yet he didn’t saw even a glimpsed of him.

Atlas thought that perhaps that man was not here anymore. He’s done with his mission (or perhaps not) or he have another plan (or perhaps he already reported it to Atlas’s parents and his parents was now planning something) or he have someone ally here to kept that man dated about him (or perhaps that man was really a good spy).

He’s done with all of his class and he’s waiting now outside at Race’s last class.

Atlas was looking around, he need to be more cautious, he can’t let that man near even an inch at Race.

He’ll kill that man before he go near an inch at Race.

When Race and Bridgette stepped out the class, the three of then walked towards the door.

Even he didn’t believed that Bridgette was a spy or perhaps an ally. Atlas can’t put his guards down, not like this that Bridgette was there first suspect.

They didn’t know.

Everything can easily twisted. Words ate the best example.

Atlas dragged back to the present from his reverie when Bridgette spoke. “Race, sa susunod na lang ako pupunta sa bahay ninyo,”

Atlas lifted his brow, he tried his best not to looked suspicious. “Why? Do you have something to work on?”

“No,” Bridgette giggled. “I have to go somewhere…um, I have some important business to do-”

“You have business?” Atlas cocked his head to the side.

“Omg ka, Atlas!” Bridgette pouted. “Wala akong business ah, wala akong company kung ’yan ang ibig mong sabihin pero may pupuntahan ako ngayon.” Bridgette smiled so brightly.

It’s real smile, yet Atlas tried not to doubt Bridgette.

She’s going somewhere. She have important things to do. She’s not a spy. She’s Race’s friend for fuck’s sake. Atlas convinced himself. At least he tried.

“Oh, it’s okay, Bridge. You can go now,”

Bridgette grinned and shoved Race at her shoulder. “Ehe! Ikaw ha, gusto mo talagang maiwan kayong dalawa, ano?”

Race shook his head and smiled. “Tomorrow, let’s continue it tomorrow.”

Bridgette nodded and bid her goodbye and they left alone.

“You’re off today,” Race said as they stared walking towards Atlas’s car.

“I’m just tired.” He lied.

It makes him felt guilty whenever he lied to Race. It’s not right but it’s the right thing to do. He can’t tell Race that someone was following them. He can’t tell Race about his job and about his family business and about what he’d did.

“I love to stroll today,” Race stopped before they reach his car. Race messed his hair and looked at him. “Let’s walk, it makes you to lessen your tension on your body and try not to scare everyone with your deadly stare, Atlas.”

Atlas blinked. Once. Twice. Thrice. And many times.

He stilled and composed himself.

He didn’t know that.

Race took his hand and they started walking to the other direction, hands holding and fingers intertwined.

“You can talk to me, Atlas. What’s bothering you?”

Atlas tried to relax, he looses the tension in his body and embraced the cold breeze.

He inhaled through his nose and exhales through his mouth.

Atlas was debating with himself to tell Race or not.

Lying makes Race safe (he can assured that). Lying will made them to move swiftly and if he tell Race, everything will change. Race will change. Atlas was certain that Race wouldn’t look at him after he know that his true colors. Race wouldn’t look at him like Race look at him today-soft eyes, gentle and tender, full of understanding and…like. Well, he’s not certain if Race love him but he was certain that Race cared for him.

Atlas took a deep breathe again and smiled. Finally, he loosed the tension and his body relax, not stiffed anymore like earlier. His jaw relax and eyes becomes soft.

“I had a hard time in class.” He lied.

And he didn’t regret it.

He will lied again. Again and again and again. If it means to protect everything-including Race.

CHAPTER 29

“Did you received another message again?” Sebastian asked as he sit beside Atlas.

Atlas grabbed his phone and checked his inbox and he shook his head.

He haven’t receive anything yet.

Atlas didn’t know what to feel. The spy stopped texting him and sending him pictures of him and Race. Is that an enough reason to be happy? Perhaps, no.

Until now he didn’t felt the presence of the spy again. Atlas watched Bridgette closely and he didn’t let his guard down. Even if Bridgette was .05% positive that she’s a spy or an ally, he still need to watched Bridgette himself. He need to keep Bridgette in his radar.

He can’t be happy nonetheless, Atlas was not sure if the spy stopped following him like his shadow or perhaps Atlas was right that the spy was a skilled criminal or robber.

How can that spy hide and moved like a shadow? The first spy that his parents hired was so easy to spotted. Perhaps, his parents hired another spy to followed him and Atlas admitted that the spy was so good.

He’s fucking good.

Rile walked towards him and handed him a bottle of hard liquor but Atlas shook his head without a hesitation.

He didn’t drink liquor-since he mer Race. He almost stopped himself from smoking, and it is also because of Race. That man really change him, yet Race didn’t force him to change but Atlas change himself for Race. At first he didn’t notice it until one day he realized that something big change from him.

Not a bag change but a good change.

“Are you certain?” Rile cocked his brow.

“Yeah. I do not drink anymore, it’s bad for our health,” Atlas winked. “You knew it, you’re a doctor, Rile.”

Rile shook his head and walked toward Sebastian instead and handed the bottle. Sebastian immediately accepted it and drank. Rile walked back to the kitchen.

“This one,” Sebastian gestured Atlas. “Is in love. I’m not shock when our friend change for his man.”

His man. Mhmm.

“What about you, James? Have you found already about that logo?” Sebastian turned his gaze to James.

James brow furrowed, his eyes narrowed on his laptop’s screen. Since the day James discover about that logo, he didn’t leave his laptop. He kept on searching about that logo.

“No. It’s still enigmatic,” James’s fingers moved quickly as he typed at the keyboard.

He’s the computer monster.

“I suggest that you should take a rest,” Rile showed up from the kitchen and leaned his one shoulder at the door frame. “It’s not good for your health, James. You already did your job the other day and you never leave your laptop.”

Rile being Rile. He’s the doctor anyway. It’s his job to take care of his friends.

“I need to find this logo-”

“You’ll find it,” Rile cuts him off. “But first, you need to rest. Avoid using your laptop for 24 hours. It’s bad for your eyes, James.”

James pouted but he didn’t listen.

“But I need to know about this logo, Doctor Rile. Don’t worry about me, I can take care of myself.” James said as he moved his fingers.

Rile sighed and started walking towards James and immediately grabbed James laptop. Rile narrowed his eyes at James. “For fuck’s sake, James. You need to rest! You’ll find this logo, okay? You’ll find this soon, but you need to rest.”

“For the love of God, Rile. Give me back my laptop. I have some business to do,” now James looked so serious-deadly serious. Yet, Rile doesn’t seem to care about it. He’s truly unfazed.

Rile cocked his brow and pointed his finger at James. “For the love of God, James. Take a rest before I’ll inject you a sleeping pills!” Rile stormed out the room, and just like that, Rile was gone.

Atlas looked at James. “What did you expect?” Atlas nodded his head. “He’s a doctor, anyway.” And he shrugged his shoulder.

Sebastian shook his head as James stomped his feet to the ground like a kid. “Fucking Rile! I don’t need a rest-”

“I agree with Rile,” Sebastian cuts James off. “You need a fucking rest, James. Look at your face on the mirror. You look like a raccoon.”

Atlas tried not to laughed when James touched his face and he run to the nearest bathroom to see his face.

A seconds later, James shouted. “Who the fuck are you?!” James stormed out the bathroom and he stopped in front of them. “Do I look ugly?! Am I ugly? Do I look like an old man?! Tell meeee, Am I ugly?!”

James being himself. He’s the dramatic one. There’s no day that James is not dramatic.

“I can’t say that I disagree,” Sebastian surpassed a smiled.

“Fucking fuck!” James touched his face and a tears slipped to his eyes.

Atlas and Sebastian looked at each other in shocked.

“He’s dramatic,” Sebastian mouthed.

“I agree.” Atlas nodded and they both watched James cried and he kept on touching his face, he kept on saying that he’s ugly and no one will ever like him because he’s ugly and old.

“That’s what Rile told you,” Atlas motioned his hands. “You need to rest.”

“Yeah, beauty rest.” Sebastian laughed a little.

James stopped throwing tantrums and he stared at no one in particular and then suddenly he rushed to his couch and lay there like the disney princess Sleeping Beauty.

“Fucker,” Sebastian shook his head.

Atlas was about to closed his eyes when Rile showed up. He’s panting and he can see the horror in Rile’s eyes. Phone gripped tightly at his phone.

Atlas stood up, worried and cautious written all over his face as he stared at his friend. Sebastian get up to his feet and he’s waiting for Rile to say something.

“Check your phone,” Rile chest heaved. “NOW.”

Atlas brow furrowed and his eyes narrowed, he’s confused but he still grabbed his phone from his pocket.

He checked his phone.

Everything becomes blurred.

His breathe is uneven. His chest heaved and eyes went dark.

His mother send to them a message. The three of them received a message from his mother.

Mother: I want your presence here at my court. You can’t hide to me. Secrets will unleashed.

 * * *

Atlas hearts was in his ear, drumming so hard and blood rushing to his veins.

Blood. He all can see was blood.

He wanted to kill someone. Tortured that man perhaps he would kill that spy slowly so he can taste the sweetness of torture.

He never got mad like this before, all he can see was red-no it’s black. Black flooded to his sight. He saw no one, but death.

“Compose yourself-”

“Do not fucking command me, Rile,” Atlas snaps.

It’s rare seeing Atlas snapped at his friends.

“I’m not commanding you, Atlas. But you shouldn’t let your mom get under your skin.” Rile voice was calm, yet Atlas saw the sweat slowly streaming down from his forehead.

They are all worried. They are worried for Race.

Perhaps later, his mother would reveal to the court who is his boyfriend and maybe blackmail him. His mother always do that. Blackmailing everyone until she gets what she wants.

His family is cruel.

And he won’t let his parents to touch Race even a single strand of his hair.

  * * *

Cold air embraced Atlas as they stepped their foot on the court. When the door cracked opened, all the councils turned their heads toward them as they walked and stopped in front of Atlas’s parents.

All people inside the court are quiet. They are watching this moment.

“I’m expecting you to kiss me, my son,” his mother smiled sweetly at him like she didn’t sent a spy to follow Atlas.

Wicked cruel woman. Dangerous woman.

His parents run this court, there are five courts on The Underground and these five courts are working under The Underground or they much prefer to call it Hades since Underground felts like hell and Underground was lead by Hades.

No wonder why Underground is the worst organization. No wonder they didn’t allowed their employee to have a lover or to enter a relationship.

Atlas felt his friends fall beside him as they faced Atlas’s parents.

“Hello, mother,” Atlas said, bemused. He didn’t gave his mother a smile.

Before his mother will say something, Atlas walked towards their seat that’s when he noticed his siblings seated beside their chairs.

After they settled on their chairs, Atlas’s mother stand up and clapped her hands and all the attention focused on his mother.

“First and foremost, I would like to acknowledge my son, Atlas for coming here today,” Atlas gritted his teeth but he didn’t looked away. “I’m so glad that he finally show up! I missed my son! I didn’t see him around and didn’t go home since I can’t barely remember.”

His mother smiled to him but Atlas didn’t return that smile.

“So,” Atlas’s mother walked around, she walked behind the councils who followed with their gaze. “We have a very important mission…”

Mission. It involves killing someone.

Atlas narrowed his eyes at his mother, his jaw clenched as his mother continue talking.

“Is that the mission of our court of The Underground gave a mission?” One of the council asked.

Atlas’s mother stopped behind the council who asked earlier. “Mhmm, good question, Baltazar.” Atlas’s mother walked back to the platform and stood on the center.

“The Underground want us to retrieve something,”

Retrieve aka steal.

“What they want us to retrieve something?” A woman from the councils asked. She played her pen with her fingers.

“Just wait, Valencia, we’ll get to that point,” his mother smiled sweetly and Atlas want to vomit. “Again, the Underground want us to retrieve an important thing…They want it and we’ll give it to them.”

Atlas narrowed his bloodshot eyes. The way his mother smile, their something she’s hiding or she have a wicked plan and Atlas didn’t like it.

“Why our court? Why not the other?” An old man council asked, cocked his brow.

“Simple! The Underground believe in us! They trusted us!” This time it’s his father who responded, it’s the first time his father talked as Atlas entered on the court.

“But, they will give us something in return,” his mother added.

“And what is that?”

Atlas’s mother smiled wickedly but didn’t answer.

“What thing they want us to retrieve?”

Atlas saw his mother’s eyes lit up at the question. She found something amusement with that question.

“Oh, oh,” His mother glanced at him for a moment but his father stared at him.

Atlas fist clenched. He didn’t looked away from his father’s stares.

Then something brushed his fist and someone whispered. “Relax…” It’s Artemis who brushed her hand to his.

Yet, it didn’t relax him. How can he relax when he knew that his parents are planning something.

How can relax when he knew that his parents already knew about him and Race because of that spy.

“At first I didn’t know why The Underground want this thing,” his mother said. “I admitted that I found that thing an ugly and weird.”

“But Underground what it in their possession it means it us worth a million or maybe a billion.” His father added.

“My husband is right,” Atlas’s mother glanced at him again before she talked. “That ugly thing is worth a million. Underground want it so much and they trusted us to retrieve it.”

Underground. They kept on saying They, Atlas was confused who own the Underground. He didn’t know who is the founder of this organization who have many connections all over the world, they have connections in governments too that’s why they smuggled and shipped illegal products with the help of governments.

Who ever the founder, he or she is a monster.

“The Underground want us to retrieve this ugly and weird but cost a million painting. Yes, it’s a painting.”

Atlas brow furrowed.

A painting? Perhaps it’s a painting of an international artist or perhaps an ancient artist.

His mother clicked something and the projector went on and a painting flashed on the screen.

Atlas squinted his eyes as he stated at the painting. Suddenly he tilted his head when he realized that the painting was so familiar.

A moment later.

He stilled on his seat.

Sebastian noticed and looked at him. “What’s wrong?” He whispered and Atlas shook his head.

He didn’t take off his eyes to the painting that his mother shown.

Atlas felt his heart beating inside his ears.

That ugly painting. He saw it in Race’s house. Race told him that his father bought that painting in a art exhibit and it really cost a million.

Atlas clenched his fist, his eyes went red and he wanted to kill someone right now.

Atlas knew. He knew it. His parents was planning something for him.

They knew.

They fucking new.

CHAPTER 30

“This painting called was saw in an art exhibit and someone already bought it.”

It’s Race’s father who bought it. Fucking fuck.

He can’t let his parents steal that painting from Montrverde.

“What if we can’t retrieve it?” This time it’s Artemis who asked.

“We will, daughter.” His mother answered and throw a glanced at Atlas.

“How we will know who bought it? You said that someone already bought it, how can we find that person?” August asked.

“Son, have trust in your mother,” their father said and this time he stood up beside his wife and wrapped his arms around her waist. “We already knew who bought it.” His father grinned.

Atlas felt the nausea urging to come out. He wanted to vomit at what his father said. Adrenaline rushed down to his spine.

“Really?” August cocked his brow.

“Yup!” His mother replied happily. “So, again, this painting bought by someone…” She paused. “And that someone is our enemy-the Monteverde and Servantes.”

Fucking fuck. Atlas felt the Adrenaline rushed to his body. It made him to kill someone right now. He knew that the venom inside him wants to come out, yet he kept himself calm.

“What if you can’t retrieve it? What will happen? What will the Underground do to us if you fail?” Atlas voice was full of venom, everyone felt it because he’s holding some dangerous aura, just the look of his face and his presence was intimidating.

It is hurt to stare.

Artemis brushed her hand again to try to calm him down. But Atlas won’t calm down, he can’t relax when Race was involve and that is including his family member.

Atlas never felt this way before. He never hate his parents before the way he hate then now.

He really hate his parents. Race didn’t deserve them.

“It’s not us, son,” his mother smiled and Atlas wanted to wiped that fucking smile. “It is you who will retrieve that painting.”

His world collapsed. Fucking no way.

Is he bad son is he want to kill his parents? Is killing his parents will makes him bad? Because for him it’s the sweetest thing he really wanted right now.

Atlas wanted to be free from his parents. He thought that whenever his parents are around he felt like he was chained in the neck and he can’t go away and run away because Atlas’s parents always pulling him back and he was choked.

He just felt the freedom when he’s with Race. He felt like the world is not cruel when Race was around. That man ease his exhaustions. That man made him realized that it’s not over yet, that the world is not cruel.

How can his parents will let their son to kill someone at the young age just because they wanted money? How can his parents will him work at the Underground at the young age?

What will you called that? Cruelty? Heartless? Monsters.

“I will not do anything.” Atlas hard and venomous voice echoed in the room.

“Oh, no. I’m afraid that you can’t disobey me, son. You know what will happen to you if you will disobey me again.” His father said, reminding Atlas what he’d done when they failed to kill Race.

Atlas eyes darken.

How can his parents do that to him? Who the fuck will punished their son with a five hundred whipped and Atlas almost died! Of course, it’s his fucking parents.

Atlas slammed his palm on the table and it vibrated at the impact.

Everyone fell silent.

“You cannot command me against my will.”

“You also cannot disobey me,” his father said.

“Why are you doing this? I already told you that I wanted to quit! I don’t want to work here anymore.”

“You don’t have a choice-”

“I fucking have a choice! Why can’t you understand?! Why can’t you let me live free? Why can’t you let me be live?”

Atlas’s mother eyes went bloodshot. “You are free, Atlas! We didn’t stop you from doing the things you wanted! We let you go around, we let you hang out with your friend. We let you transferred to the other university! We never stop you, Atlas. How can you say that we didn’t let you live free?!” His mother snaps.

Atlas brow furrowed as his jaw clenched and his fist shivered against the table. He can felt the rage rushing down to his body.

“Really? That’s freedom to you?” Atlas sighed and laughed a little. “I want to be free, mother. Free from you and free from the Underground. I never wanted this work yet you command me and chained me on my neck like I’m your fucking dog!” Atlas voice echoed in the room like a thunder.

Atlas’s mother inhaled deeply and looked away. “You cannot disobey us, son-”

“No I can! I’m not doing that-”

“Why is that a problem?” His father hard voice echoed. Atlas stopped and inhaled deeply, instead of answering his father clapped his both palms together.

Atlas was confused at what his father did and suddenly the door cracked opened and a tall man entered the room.

He’s wearing a bottom down black sleeve and a black khaki slacks. He’s the golden brown hair man who followed him around and he’s the one who sent him those messages.

Fucking spy.

What he’s doing here?

Atlas went stilled and his friends realized it.

“Mhmm, son, don’t let us do this to you,” his mother said with a wicked smile.

“Do what?” He kept his voice stern, he can’t show weaknesses. His parents will use it against him.

“Oh, you knew it.” She paused. “We don’t want to use your lover against you.”

Atlas trembled.

His world, he thought, it stopped for a moment.

A moment later, images flashes on the screen.

Atlas knees weakened, he clutched the edge of the table for a support.

“Mother! What are you doing?” Artemis stood up.

“I’m doing the right thing, daughter,” she smiled and walked beside the man and patted his shoulder. “Von, you did a great job!”

The golden hair man named Von smiled and nodded.

Atlas’s mother looked at him again. “You didn’t tell me that you have a lover,” his mother said, started walking towards him and stopped behind. “I’m hurt, son. Why you didn’t tell us that you have a lover?”

Atlas gritted his teeth. He wanted to grabbed his gun and point it toward his mother.

“Look at that,” she giggled. “You two looked so sweet.”

Atlas narrowed his eyes at Von. His eyes was full of venom and confusion.

“That girl is so beautiful and I cannot wait to meet her!” His mother said with full of enthusiasm. “Mhmm, Bridgette Moreno, 19 years old and daughter of a businessman. Her name sounds lovely.”

Atlas didn’t tear off his eyes on Von. He’s confused why that man told the opposite to his parents? Why did he send that pictures instead of him and Race? It’s not what that Von man sent to him the other weeks.

Atlas eyes darkened. Fucking fuck. He’s planning something. That Von was planning something. And Atlas only knew that that Von is not a trusted person, he just lied to Atlas’s mother of sending Atlas and Bridgette pictures instead of Race.

I cannot trust this man. Atlas thought.

“You already knew what will happen to your lovely girlfriend if your disobey us again, son,” so fucking wicked. “I don’t want to kill your girlfriend. I saw that you’re happy with her.”

Atlas stared at his pictures with Bridgette. Their were times that he stood beside Bridgette because he’s protecting Race. But now, Atlas felt guilty and mad. He’s guilty because Bridgette got into these mess even she didn’t do anything. He’s mad at himself because he’s making Race safe but he put Bridgette in danger.

“And, oh!” Another images flashed on the screen and this time Atlas lost his senses when he saw Race. “You didn’t tell me that you are friend with our enemy’s son! It’s a perfect timing right?”

Atlas’s mother walked happily back to the center. Atlas looked at Von and he wanted to kill that man.

“Mother, stop doing this! They are innocents!” Amber cried. “They are out of this, you cannot blackmail Atlas for doing this. He already told you that he cannot do this anymore.”

“You don’t have to defend me, Amber,” he whispered without tearing off his eyes at Von who smirked at him and looked away to looked at Amber.

“I have to and may I remind you that you can’t kill someone here.” She whispered back.

“Why I cannot do this?” His mother arched her brow. “If your brother will disobey me, it’s his fault if his lover will found dead tomorrow-”

“Mother!” August exploded.

Yet his mother didn’t stopped. “What will I kill first? Your girlfriend or your friend?” She said no one in particular. “Hmm, perhaps I can kill your girlfriend first. Your friend is useful but I would lovely kill him myself!”

“Why are you doing this?” Atlas stern voice echoed.

His mother smiled. “I’m being thoughtful here, son,” she paused. “You only have two option. You obey us or not. Every option there’s a consequence.” She smirked.

“I will let your girlfriend and friend live freely if you obey me. I will not touch them if you will obey me.” His mother sit back to her seat and smiled sweetly at him.

“Choose wisely, son or you cannot see your girlfriend and friend tomorrow.”

CHAPTER 31

That meeting bothered Atlas to death, it didn’t leave his mind since the day since he left at the court.

His mother chose him to retrieve that painting, and retrieve means to steal that painting. Atlas didn’t mind the retrieve part because he’s used to retrieve things since he turned fourteen.

His parents taught him to steal things at the young age. Madali lang kay Atlas na nakawin ang painting na kinakailangan ng mga magulang niya at ang hinigingi ng Underground. Subrang madali lang ito pero ngayon ay biglang nakalimutan ni Atlas kung paano magnakaw dahil ang nagmamay-ari ng painting na iyon ay ang ama ni Race-his boyfriend.

“Are you listening to me?” Race drag him back from his reverie.

He blinks and his eyes focus on his boyfriend.

While he’s staring intently to Race, something come up to his mind.

Atlas can’t believed that this man was already his.

A pang of guilt and pain in his heart while he’s staring at his man.

“What did you say?” Asked Atlas.

Race face furrowed and titled his head to other side. “I’m talking here for almost 15 minutes, yet you hear nothing?”

Atlas averted his gaze, he can’t take looking at Race’s eyes without feeling guilty.

“You’re not with yourself these past few days,” Race said to him, bemused. “You can tell me what’s bothering you, Atlas.”

Tell you what’s bothering me? I wonder what’s your reaction if you hear this. Atlas thought.

Telling Race what’s bothering him is the least thing he will do. There’s a lot of possibilities will happen if Atlas will tell Race what happened and what’s bothering him.

“It’s nothing, Race. You don’t have to worry,” he smiled and gave Race a kissed on his lips.

But Race didn’t leave him. Race still staring at him with those curious eyes.

Race didn’t believe him, yet he didn’t asked something. He just sighed.

“You can trust me, okay?” Race said. “Do you trust me?” Asked Race.

Atlas heart squeezed. “With my life, Race.”

* * * 

The next day, Atlas received a message from his mother. His brow furrowed and eyes darkened when he read the message.

Mother : I give you five days to do what we’ve told you, Atlas.

Atlas : I’m not doing this. I didn’t agreed to your request, mother.

Mother : it’s not a request, Atlas. It’s your job, remember?

Atlas’s hands gripped tighten to his phone. Veins are showing on his arms.

His phone beeped.

Mother : You knew what will happen if you didn’t retrieve that thing for the days we gave to you, Atlas.

Atlas threw his phone to his bed.

“Fuck,” he swore under his breathe. He sat on the edge of the bed and gripped his hair.

His mind was in chaotic thinking what he’ll do. He didn’t want to do what his mother told him. He can’t steal that painting that Race’s father bought.

What if Race will find out what he do? What if Race will find out about his job? Perhaps, Race will avoid him and dump him.

His heart squeezed so hard at his thought.

His phone beeped again, thinking of it might be his mother again, Atlas didn’t pick up the phone. He ignored it instead.

He lay on his bed. Atlas closed his eyes and his mind flooded with different emotions. His mind was full of words he cannot understand.

If he won’t obey his family, Race and Bridgette life is in danger. His family knew about these two, yet his family thought that Bridgette is his girlfriend and Race is just his friends.

It made him feel at ease that his family doesn’t know the truth, yet he felt guilty. His guilty didn’t let him sleep at night. He just put Bridgette’s life in danger.

If something happen to Bridgette, it is his fault. He just used Bridgette to veil his relationship with Race.

His phone vibrated again.

He knows that his mother is calling him just to remind him his job and it should be done for 5 days, and if he fail, he’ll face the consequences. Race and Bridgette will be in danger. His family will hurt Race and Bridgette.

He won’t let his family hurt these people.

Another beeped from his phone.

Atlas groaned and he reached for his phone. How can he rest when his mother won’t let him?

Groaning and frowning, he answered the call without even looking who’s the calling.

“What?! Stop calling me, okay? Can you let me rest? Stop bothering me, will you?!” He snapped, irritated. “Why you wouldn’t let me rest, huh?! It’s so irritating! Please, just for once, let me rest. I’m tired. Fucking tired.” He exclaimed.

Atlas’s chest heaved after he spoke. He fucking hate his family for doing this to him! His family is punishing him by using the people who is close to him.

After a moment, Atlas’s brow deepened because of confusion. It’s so confusing that his mother remained silent and didn’t shout at him or said any blackmails to him.

“Sorry, did I disturbed you?” That voice made him stop. Made his breathe stop. Made his world stop.

He jerked up to his bed and he stared at his phone screen. Atlas read the caller ID and when he realized who called him, he swore under his breathe.

“R-Race-”

“I’m sorry, Atlas. I know you had a bad day, but don’t threw all your irritation to me, okay? Again, I’m sorry for calling-”

“-baby, no!” He shouted. “Don’t hung up, please. I-I…I didn’t mean to shout you. I-I-I didn’t see who called me and I thought is my…” Atlas didn’t finished the word.

“Rest, Atlas. Gotta go now. I’m sorry-”

“Fuck, baby. I’m so sorry for shouting at you. L-Let’s talk, don’t hung up yet.”

“Let’s talk tomorrow,” Atlas heard Race sighed. “You seems to exhausted. I watched you earlier and you are not with yourself like you have something in your mind. I can feet the exhaustion in you, Atlas. I’ll just hung up now so you can rest. Let’s talk tomorrow, mhm?”

Atlas relax. At least Race is not mad at him. He’s afraid that Race will dump him after he snapped at Race.

The fuck. It’s his fault. He didn’t look who’s the caller.

“Y-You’re not…mad-”

“I’m mad. It’s so frustrating and irritating, Atlas. I want to ignore you tomorrow for shouting at me without any reason, but then, I know and I saw you exhausted, so I’ll be good to you. Let’s just talk tomorrow.”

Atlas’s heart skipped a beat.

Fucking fuck.

“I-I’m sorry, Race. I love you-”

“See you tomorrow, Atlas.” Race hung up the call.

Atlas messed his hair because of frustration. He hated himself for snapping at Race.

It’s my fucking fault! I should read who’s the caller first! Argh! Fucking fuck!

Atlas stopped messing his hair when he read Race’s for him earlier. That is why Atlas’s phone beeped earlier because Race messaged him.

Race:

You looked tired earlier. Are you okay?

Race:

you have something in your mind, am I right?

Race:

you can tell me, Atlas. I’m your partner, you can relay on me too.

Race:

I’ll call, okay? Let’s talk.

Atlas’s lips wobbled after he read the messages. He messed his hair again.

Fucking fuck!

Race was worried for him, yet he snapped at Race earlier because he thought that it was his mother.

“Shit, I’m so damn stupid!” He said.

The next day, Atlas waited Race on the gate. He wanted to see Race and apologize for snapping at him last night. Atlas didn’t know what excuses he will use that Race won’t find it suspicious. Atlas can’t tell Race what’s bothering him. He can’t tell Race that his family want Mr. Monteverde’s painting.

Perhaps he’ll tell Race when the right time comes and that time is not today. Atlas hated lying at Race, but he need to do this.

Atlas straighten when he saw Race walking towards him. Their eyes met and Atlas slowly smiled, but Race didn’t exchange his smile that made Atlas worried.

He’s mad.

Race stopped in front of him.

“Good morning,” Race said. “How’s your night? Did you rest well, Atlas?” He added.

Atlas swallowed hard. “I’m good. I rested well,”

“Good. Perhaps you won’t snap at me now.”

“I’m sorry,” Atlas whispered and he stepped closer. “I’m so sorry about last night, Race. I didn’t meant to snapped at you. I didn’t know that it’s you who called me. I though…I-thought…” Atlas can’t finished his sentence.

“You thought what?” Race brow furrowed at him.

Atlas can’t help but swallowed. His adams apple bobbed as he swallowed.

“I-I thought,” he averted his gaze. It felts like his tongue was tied inside his mouth. He can’t finished the word.

“You can relay on me, Atlas. I am your partner, you can trust me.”

Atlas felt Race’s hand held his. Race squeeze Atlas’s hand like he’s telling him that it’s fine. Race was assuring him that Race is there when Atlas need someone.

Atlas slowly looked up Race’s eyes. Atlas saw the understanding in Race’s eyes.

There the unspoken understanding.

Atlas inhale deeply before he said, “I thought it is my mom who called.” He admitted, can’t looked at Race’s eyes.

Atlas was terrified. He’s afraid that Race might dump him or hate him if he knew that he doesn’t have a good relationship with his family. What would Race will think? That he’s not a good son?

Race grew up with a good relationship with his family. They are close at each other. Race’s family relay on each other. Race’s parents didn’t let Race to kill people. Race’s parents didn’t let Race to steal something.

Race’s parents took care Race with all their love.

Him? What about him? His parents let him kill someone, let him steal something.

What will Race think that he hated his own mother?

“Did you have a misunderstanding with your mother?” Race asked with his sweet and gentle voice.

Atlas didn’t hesitate to shook his head.

“I hate my mother more than my life. I hate my father. In general, I hate my parents.” Atlas confessed, but this time he didn’t looked away.

Race didn’t said anything, he just stared at Atlas. It made Atlas worried.

“What are you thinking?” He asked, worried flashes in his eyes. “Did you find me a bad son?”

“Why are you saying that?”

“I’m scared. I’m scared what might you’ve thinking about me after you heard it. I’m scared that you might dump me.”

“Are you serious? Why I’m going to dump you?”

Atlas tilted his head to the other side. “Because I am a bad son?”

Race grinned and smacked him on his shoulder. “I’m not shallow thinker, Atlas. I didn’t know why did you hate your parents more than your life, but I know there a reason behind your hatred heart. I’m not going to dump you just because you hate your family, it doesn’t make you a bad son. There’s a lot of sons there that they hate their parents, it’s not just you. Hating your parents didn’t make you odds.”

Atlas stared at his boyfriend’s eyes with a teary eyes. He doesn’t know why he loves this feeling he felt just now. Hearing what Race said to him made him felt special. Atlas felt like he’s the lucky man alive when he’s with Race.

“You didn’t hate me?” He asked.

“Of course not, Atlas,” Race grabbed his hand and they started walking inside the gate. “I am just mad that you shouted at me last night. But hearing you today, my anger goes away. I understand you more than you know, Atlas. So, please do not hesitate to relay on me when you are tired and when you need someone by your side.” As Race continue talking, Atlas’s world disappeared and he only saw Race.

Race is the center of his world. Race made him felt alive again. Race gave him a reason to fight.

Race kept on going. While Atlas can’t help himself but stared at the man he love.

“I know there’s a lot of secret veil inside you mouth. I’m waiting for you to tell me, Atlas. I’m always here to listen to you. I will not getting tired listening to you. Atlas-” Race words muffled when Atlas kissed him.

Atlas kissed Race with everyone was watching them. They didn’t mind that students are watching them kissing right now. All what Atlas want to do is to devour Race.

They leaned back to catch their breathe. Atlas rest his forehead to Race’s and whispered. “My brain knows how much I love you,”

“Brain?” Race asked, confused.

“Yes. Our feelings is in our brain not in out heart. That’s why when someone had a heart transplant, their feeling to their love ones didn’t disappear with their hearts because feelings is in our brain.” Atlas explained and he smiled widely, satisfied when he watched Race dazed.

“Oh,” Race said.

Atlas wiggled his eyebrow. “I know I’m genius. You don’t need to compliment me-”

“I love you with all my brain,” Atlas stopped breathing. This man knew how to steal his breaths away. “That is right?”

“How many is your brain?” Atlas jester.

“Not so many as you have, my lord. But I know that all my genius neurons knew whom they love.”

“Hey! Don’t act like you’re the genius here!” Atlas protested as they started walking. “Remember, I am the genius here, baby.”

Race shook his head. “Yes, my lord,”

“And don’t call me that.”

“Call you what, my lord?”

“That!”

“My lord?”

Atlas pouted and looked away. This man was no mercy for him.

“Why is that, my lord-”

“I’m turned on, okay? Stop calling me that or we can’t attend our class today.”

“Is that a threat-”

“You have no mercy, Race,” Atlas clutches his chest. “I’m going now. Take care!”

And they slipped away.

But before Atlas stepped in his class, he saw someone familiar.

Atlas squinted his eyes and suddenly his eyes changed into a dark shade when he realized who the fuck he just saw.

Atlas didn’t hesitated, he stormed towards Von. The fucking Von-his mother’s spy.

“What are you doing here?” He asked harshly.

“I’m just visiting my colleague here, boss-”

“Don’t fucking call me that!” Atlas snapped and he grabbed Von’s arm.

“Where are we going?”

“I’m going to kill you fucker!”

“Oh?”

Atlas opened the door in the backseat. He three Von inside and he turn to the driver seat.

“Hey-” Von didn’t finished talking when he sniffed the car. “What’s this smell?” He asked.

Atlas smirked and put on the mask.

“Sweet dream fucker.” Atlas whispered when he saw Von unconscious at the back.

Atlas stepped on the break while he dialed Sebastian’s number.

“Ready my guns.” He said and hung up.

Minutes of driving, they finally arrived at the turf. Outside the garage he saw Sebastian, Rile and James waiting for him. They all looked serious.

Atlas stepped out from the car and threw his mask in the trash bin.

“Get him,” he said.

“What did you do, Atlas?” Rile asked, worried for him than terrified.

“You’re not planning to kill him right?” Asked Sebastian while he carry Von inside the turf.

“I’m planning on torturing him.”

“Why does I feel like you’re lying with yourself?” Sebastian said after he tied Von on the chair.

Atlas face furrowed. “What do you mean?”

“Well, if you’re gonna kill this man, you have a time of killing him earlier when you’re driving here.”

“I want to make his death memorable, Sebastian.” Atlas voice was stern while his eyes was bored to the unconscious man.

“Did you kidnapped him?”

“Kidnapped? I wouldn’t do that!” He protested.

“Then what did you do?”

“He showed up in the university and I grabbed him to my car and I let him sniffed the smoke.” Atlas explained.

“Is that right?” Asked Rile, looking at Sebastian.

“It is fucking right, Rile! He made my life miserable! He’s going to pay!”

“I didn’t mean that, Atlas,” Rile said and he walked towards the man and he checked. “You just grabbed this man inside your car,” he said. “Did he fought?”

“No.” Atlas said with a low voice.

“Oh, so you mean he let you grabbed him,” Rile nodded and said. “It means Von was willingly to come with you. He didn’t hesitated too. He just let you grabbed him.”

“Von seems stronger than we think. He can fight with you when you grabbed him without his consent.” Sebastian added.

Atlas started to doubted himself because of what his friends said. He stared at the unconscious man tied on the chair.

After a moment of studying the man. Atlas’s eyes squinted and he stood up.

Atlas smacked Von on the shoulder. “Wake up fucker,”

“What are you doing?” James asked behind him.

Atlas ignored James instead he smacked Von again on the shoulder. “I know you’re fucking awake in the whole time.”

A moment of silence, suddenly Von bursted into laughed. His head fell back as he laugh in the top of his lungs.

“Is he possessed?” James asked, looking terrified.

“Idiot, he’s not possessed,” Atlas said. “More like he’s crazy.”

Another laughed from Von. The four of them was confused while they are watching Von laughed alone. They thought that Von was really a crazy bastard.

“This is so ridiculous,” Von said while he shook his head. “I thought you’re stupid enough for being confident that I fell unconscious. Well, you didn’t noticed it immediately.”

“How did you do that?” Asked Atlas. He was mad and amazed or perhaps he’s mad because he felt amazed.

“Oh, I am a rescuer. I am a diver and a swimming trainer,”

Atlas’s face smug.

“Can you teach me how to breath under water?” James asked enthusiastic.

Atlas smacked James at the head and threw him a death glare. “You should not asked our enemy to teach you how to swim! You stupid! He might drown you!”

“I want to know how to swim!”

“You can ask me to teach you-”

“Oh-oh. Not gonna happen, boss. You almost drowned yourself the last time.” James stepped back like a scared cat.

Atlas rolled his eyes and he looked back at the man smirking at me.

“Why are you smirking at me, huh?”

“Well, your friend was right,” he nodded his head towards Rile. “I come here and let you grabbed me willingly.”

Atlas narrowed his dark eyes to Von. “Why?”

Von smiled and said, “I want to negotiate with you, Atlas.”

CHAPTER 32

Atlas clenched his jaw as he stared down at Von who’s grinning at him.

Atlas was irritated to this man because Von won’t stop grinning. Isn’t he not tired of stretching his lips?

“Are you stupid, Dear Von? You really want to negotiate with me?”

“Nah, I’m not stupid, kiddo. I am genius, you know.”

“You looked stupid to me though,” Atlas shrugged his shoulder and he sit back to the couch. “Why do you think I will accept your offer? You work for my mother-”

“I didn’t work for anyone,” Von cuts him off with a smirk. “People work for me, Atlas.”

Atlas’s brow furrowed deeply. Tension was growing up in his body.

“You-” he inhale deeply as he tried himself to relax. “Why did you sent those pictures to my mother?”

“That’s what she wanted-”

“Because you work for her!”

“Kiddo, if you listen earlier. I said, I didn’t work for anyone, yet people work for me. I am not doing it because I am puppet of your mother, but I am the one whose manipulating your mother.” Von smirk evilly.

Atlas caught off guard at what he’d heard. He stared at the man who is now seriously staring at him too.

The smirking Von was now gone and a deadly Von appeared.

“What do you mean?” Rile asked.

“It’s TMI,” Von smirked again and then sighed. “I’m really tired of narrating a long story, you know. You will eventually know it. Not now, but soon.” Von yawned.

“Are you saying that you have a plan for my mother?” Asked Atlas, he never blinks since Von said it. Atlas was damned serious too.

“Plan? Uhm, yes. I have. I have plenty of them,”

God. This man was very honest!

“What?” Atlas’s brow deepened.

Von tilted his head like he’s making Atlas to be irritated.

“Why would I tell you, mhm?”

Fucking fuck.

Atlas cracked his neck and rolled his shoulder.

“Oh? It that so?” Asked Atlas, this time he’s a little bit relax, but the darkness in his eyes was still visible to the people who’s looking at him.

Atlas stood up and walk towards the pitcher. He poured water to his glass and drank.

“Are you planning to kill my mother, Dear Von?” Atlas lifted his one brow.

Von matches his stared and wiggled his brow once before he shrugged.

“Mhmm, I did not have plan for it,” Von pouted and looked up at him again. “I will not kill your mother because I know you already dig your mother’s grave.”

Atlas gripped tightened around the glass. Veins are showing as he gripped the glass tightly.

“I am considering it after you sent those pictures to my mother,”

“Well, I’m just doing what she’d said-”

“And you really put that girl in danger?! Why did you include that girl to this mess?!” Atlas voice thunder around the corner.

“Oh, then do you want me to sent those picture of you and your boyfriend to your mother instead?” Von challenge him.

Atlas went silent. He opened his mouth to talk, yet he closed it again when he can’t find what he’ll said.

Fucking fuck.

“Your mother will kill your lovely boyfriend if I send those pictures and told them that the boy is your boyfriend. Thanks to me, you and your boyfriend’s ass was still safe until now. If I did not put that story to your mother, perhaps yesterday or the other day, you will not see your boyfriend face again.” Von laughed.

Atlas’s bloodshot eyes darkened. He stumped his feet towards Von and suddenly, like a lightning strikes from the sky, Atlas punched Von in the face and gripped Von’s throat.

“I’m not damned happy for what you’ve did, Von. I’m damn mad. You put that innocent girl into danger! You really think that’s the right thing to do, huh?! I can protect my boyfriend, Von. I can protect him with all my life. Yet, you grabbed this innocent girl to the picture and now she’s in the radar of my family! Now, I have two person to protect! You damned stupid!”

Atlas put down his hand and he take a deep breath. He did that to relax.

“At least, it’s not your boyfriend who will be kill first by your mother,” Von smirked and leaned to his back. “You still have a days to save your boyfriend and your acting girlfriend. Your mother was giving you a time to retrieve that painting and if you won’t give that painting to them in the day they gave to you…BANG! Good bye, lover…” Von laughed like an evil.

This man was beautiful, yet he’s dangerous.

“Do you want me to kill this man?” Sebastian asked, pointing his gun to Von.

“No.” Atlas didn’t leave his eyes to Von. “Put down your gun, Sebastian.” He ordered.

Sebastian’s brow furrowed.

“Did you hear your boss? He said put down your gun and untie me,”

Sebastian threw Von a death glare. “I don’t need Atlas’s permission to kill you. If you keep on getting into my nerve, I won’t hesitate to kill you.”

“Oh! I’m afraid!”

Sebastian rolled his eyes and looked back at Atlas who’s now in a deep thinking.

He’s debating with himself if he either kill Von or held him captive instead. This man seems not lying to him and this kind of man will not work for his mother.

“Don’t let that man to get out of this turf. Do not untie him, keep him inside the cell,” he said and turn his back.

“Where are you going?” Rile asked.

“Home.” He answered without looking back.

                    * * *

Home. Atlas meant so say, he will go home-to Race.

He should rest and not to drain his mind too much. Thinking of his problem makes his head ached.

“And what I owe you a visit?” Mr. Monteverde greeted Atlas at the door.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Monteverde,” he bowed. “Is Race here?”

Isaiah arched his brow and stared at Atlas for a while before he stepped beside and opened the door wide so Atlas can stepped in.

“He’s in his room,” Isaiah answered finally.

“Is he asleep?”

“Perhaps he’s resting after an hours of reviewing for exam.”

Atlas sighed. His boyfriend might be so tired right now or perhaps he’s asleep.

“How about you, Atlas?”

Atlas followed Isaiah in the kitchen and he watched Isaiah as the man prepared for a snack.

“Did you review for your finals?”

Atlas stopped. His breathing stop. Isaiah was the only one who asked him about his finals. His parents never did. His parents acted like he’s not their child.

Well, except for his brother and sisters. They are worried for Atlas.

He’s just shocked when Isaiah asked him about his finals. Atlas knew that Isaiah was monitoring all his actions because they already knew that Atlas is the son of their enemy. Atlas felt something inside him. He felt joy after hearing that from someone who is not part of their family.

“I’m asking you, Atlas,”

Isaiah’s voice dragged Atlas back from his reverie.

He blinks. “I don’t need to review, I’m genius,” he answered. “Well, for your information, Mr. Monteverde. I am always the rank one in our class when I was in elementary and when I graduated high school, I am the valedictorian and I always got with highest honors and-”

“Stop. I don’t need that information,” Isaiah said, rolling his eyes.

“Oh, I thought you need to know that. In case you didn’t know-”

“You just slapped to me all your achievements and telling me that I am stupid way back.”

Atlas suppressed a smile. “No, Sir. I am not telling you that you are not genius,” Atlas shrugged with a smug on his face. “Well, not everyone is gifted with a natural genius brain. Perhaps, you are not one of us, Mr. Monteverde who gifted with all the genius neurons-”

Atlas suddenly stopped when a plate fly to his direction. He dodged it fast while holding his head, trying to protect it from the flying object.

“Get out of my house!” Isaiah spouted.

“Sir?”

“Don’t sir-sir me! Get out!”

Another flying object fly to his direction.

“But, Sir! I’m telling the truth!” Atlas shouted as he dodged another flying objects.

Atlas popped his head to the diner table and he saw Isaiah holding his hips while throwing a death glare at him.

Damn. He’s mad.

“Oh, so you’re telling me that I am stupid and you are the genius here?” Isaiah’s chest heaved.

“No! No you’re not stupid, Sir.” Atlas flushed his perfect white teeth, hoping that it will help, yet is seems like it doesn’t help because Isaiah became more irritated.

Oh, fuck. My perfect white teeth is not helping.

“You fucker, come here!” Isaiah exclaimed and he tried to catch him when Hades catch Isaiah first.

“Hey, what happened here?” Hades asked calmly, but the man in his arms wiggled like a kid who wants to get out of his parents.

“Tell your son to break up with this moron,”

Atlas stopped and eyes widen. He straighten his body.

“Oh-oh,” he whispered.

“What? Why?” Hades looked at him then back to his lover.

Isaiah pointed his finger towards Atlas. “That boy called me stupid!”

Oh…well, I didn’t say that actually.

“I’m just telling you my achievements, Sir-”

“Don’t sir-sir me!”

Atlas bit his lip to suppressed a smile. Isaiah has a childish side. Hm.

Why Race doesn’t have that side?

Atlas want to see how clingy Race is to him. Atlas wants so see Race being childish when he’s around.

Because of that thought, Atlas can’t help but smiled. His perfect white teeth showed. Atlas rubbed his jaw and bit his lower lip to hide his smile.

God! He can’t believe that he’s imagining Race being clingy and childish.

“See? He’s crazy! He’s smiling like an idiot, Hades. They need to break up,”

Atlas blinked his reveries away and focus back to the man who is fuming mad at him now.

“Perhaps he’s thinking about Race,” Hades shrugged his shoulder.

Oh, damn right, Sir. Atlas was thinking about his son.

“He’s making fun with me,” Isaiah was not done sulking. Isaiah was still glaring at him.

Hades smiled at Atlas then he looked back to his lover again.

“Babe-”

“Atlas, what are you doing here?”

All their heads turned to the man who entered the kitchen.

All the exhaustion in his body disappear when he saw Race standing at the door and staring at him. All the heaviness in his body just vanished just like a bubbles.

Atlas smiled and he rushed to Race and hugged the man he called home in front of Race’s parents.

“And now you’re hugging my son,” Isaiah crossed his arms against his chest. “Earlier you making fun with me then now you are acting like a cat?!” Isaiah scolded him.

Atlas pouted.

“Uh, what happened here? Why it look…mess?”

“Your boyfriend did this,”

“Well, I am not the one who threw all these plates, though I will buy you another one.” Atlas smiled and put his arms around Race’s shoulder.

Isaiah scoffed and rolled his eyes.

Hades laughed echoed in the kitchen and he nodded at Atlas.

“You can go now boys, I still have to scold this man,” Hades smiled sweetly to them.

“What?!” Isaiah snapped his head to his lover, brow furrowed deeply.

“Yes, babe. I’ll scold you to our room.” Hades winked and grabbed Isaiah by his wrist out of the kitchen.

The two boy in the kitchen looked at each other and then shrugged their shoulder.

* * * 

“What happened with you and dad earlier?” Race asked as they stepped out in the mall after they bought a new plates.

Atlas smiled and shrugged his shoulder. “We’re just having fun, baby.”

“Oh, I didn’t know that it is fun to threw plates around,”

“That’s how your daddy showed his love for me.” Atlas winked at Race.

Atlas put his arms around Race’s shoulder as they walked towards their car.

Suddenly, he felt his phone vibrated inside his pocket. Atlas grabbed his phone and checked it. His mood suddenly changed at what he’d read.

Mother: Atlas, don’t tell me you forgot your mission?

Another beeped.

Mother: you already knew what will happen if you disobey me this time.

Atlas clenched his jaw. He didn’t realized that his gripped tightened around Race’s shoulder.

Race winced and looked at Atlas.

“What’s wrong?” Race asked with a soft voice.

Atlas shook his head and shoved his phone back to his pocket.

“It’s nothing,” he said, yet his face and eyes said the opposite.

Race saw it.

Race saw that their something was happening and Atlas wouldn’t tell him what happened.

Atlas was keeping it with himself.

Race suddenly stopped that makes Atlas looked at him with confusion.

“This past few days, I noticed that there’s something you are not telling me,” said Race.

“It’s nothing to worry about, Race-”

“It’s nothing? But you acting weird!”

Atlas sighed and rubbed his face with his both palm because of frustration.

“It’s really nothing, Race,” Atlas rolled his shoulder. “There’s nothing to worry about, okay?”

“You kept something to me,” Race stared at his eye.

Race was damned serious.

He looked mad at Atlas.

“You’re lying to me, Atlas and I don’t like it.” Race added, jaw clenched.

Atlas eyes darkened, but he shook his head and sighed. “I’m not lying-”

“I hope not,” Race cut him off. “Because I hate people who lied to me, Atlas.” Race voice was sterner and more venomous.

Atlas started to worried. His eyes can’t focus and his mind was in chaos.

Atlas was debating with himself.

He want to tell Race what’s happening because he want Race to trust him and he didn’t want to lie to his boyfriend. But, he can’t tell Race.

Atlas’s parents want him to retrieve Race’s father’s painting.

It’s Mr. Monteverde’s painting!

What Race will think of him if Atlas will told Race about it?!

Perhaps Race will change or perhaps Race will get mad at him or perhaps Race will dump him or leave him or hate him.

Atlas was afraid. He’s terrified for what it cost to tell Race about this.

He can’t lose Race like this.

“Race, you need to…” Atlas squeezed his eyes. “You need to understand that…not everything is you need to know, specially when it’s about me.”

Atlas regret that instantly when he saw Race’s eyes change. From dangerous to hurt.

Atlas stepped closer to Race and about to embrace Race but Race stepped back and smiled.

“We are in relationship right?” Asked Race. “We should trust each other. We need to relay in each other, not to keep lie in each other.”

Atlas heart squeezed when he saw Race hurt.

Race smiled at him, yet Atlas’s heart squeezed as he saw Race’s fake and hurt smiled.

Fucking fuck.

“Race-”

“I need to go home,” Race cuts him off. “I need to rest and forget that my boyfriend is lying to me.” Race started walking.

“Race,” Atlas called. “Please, understand me…” He begged.

Race stopped and looked over his shoulder. “I hope I can understand you, Atlas. You are lying to me and I don’t know what’s happening to my boyfriend.”

Atlas felt the heaviness in his heart.

“Baby-”

“I will try,” Race said without looking at him. “I will try to understand you. I will try my best to understand you as your fucking understanding boyfriend, Atlas.”

Atlas felt the pang in his heart. He squeezed his eyes shut and swallowed hard.

This is not what he’s praying for. This is not what he’s expecting to happened.

It’s so visible that Race was mad at him.

I’m sorry. I’m sorry. But I can’t tell you.

Not today.

It’s dangerous.

I need to protect you against my parents. I need to protect you and Bridgette. And I can’t lose you, Race.

“I-I promise-”

“ Don’t .“

Atlas stopped breathing. “What?”

“Don’t promise anything-”

“I will tell you the truth when the times come or when everything is finally okay. I will tell you everything, I promise with my soul.” Atlas cuts Race off.

They stared at each other for a while, then Race get in the car and never said anything.

Atlas sighed and messed his hair as he started driving.

They didn’t talk in the whole ride. No one is talking. Race was ignoring him in the whole ride. Race can’t even looked at him.

When they finally arrived, Atlas helped Race with all the plates they bought.

When they are done, Race started walking again to his room and Atlas followed.

He followed Race everywhere.

When they are near to Race’s room. Race suddenly stopped walking.

Atlas stopped and he stared at Race’s back-confused why Race stopped.

“You can go now. I need to rest.”

There’s no gentle in Race’s voice that makes Atlas worried and terrified at the same time.

“Race, we need to fix this-”

“There’s nothing to fix, Atlas. I just don’t want another lie from your mouth again.”

Race opened his door and the door slammed behind Race.

Atlas felt like his world broke down into pieces.

Fucking fuck.

Atlas waited at Race’s door. Waiting for Race to open, yet hour past and Race’s didn’t come out.

Atlas was in rage. He’s mad. Not with Race but himself and his parents.

“Go home now, Atlas,” Hades voice brought Atlas back to the present.

He spun around and saw Race’s parents.

“Sir?”

“You need to give our son a time and space perhaps?” Hades said.

“But-”

“You can fix everything tomorrow,” Isaiah added and nodded his head. “He just need to rest, Atlas.”

Atlas stared down on the floor for a moment and he nodded his head afterwards.

“Tell him that I will come back tomorrow,”

“We will.” They both said in unison.

Atlas nodded again and sighed. He smiled to Race’s parents and walk passed at them.

When Atlas was about to walked down the stairs when he saw the painting. Atlas stopped and stared at the painting for a moment before he finally walked down and left the house with a broken heart.

CHAPTER 33

But the promised was broken.

Atlas made a promised in front of Race’s parents that he will come back tomorrow, yet that promised was broken.

Today, was the day of Atlas’s last day to retrieve the painting, yet he still can’t make it.

Who the fucking hell steal the painting that owned by his boyfriend’s patents?

God. Atlas never wanted this to happened. He never want to steal that precious painting. He can’t. Even though he can steal it so easily, but Atlas won’t do it.

“What are you going to do?” Rile asked, he’s worried too.

The four of them are sitting in a couch. They are thinking what to do. They are thinking what Atlas’s parents will do if Atlas can’t retrieve that painting.

“Don’t let your mother hurt Bridgette nor Race,” James bite his nails. He always do that if he’s anxious.

“I won’t let my mother hurt them.” Said Atlas.

He stared at the wall. He can’t concentrate to build a concrete plan because his mind was flooded by Race.

All he can think was Race being mad at him for hiding something.

Atlas can’t forgot Race face. He’s mad. Race can’t even face him fully. The slammed of the door. When Race shut him up. When Race told him to go home instead of fixing their problems.

How can he fully concentrate when his boyfriend was fuming mad at him and can’t even talk to him because Race hate him for keeping a secret!

Damn! This things got the situation worse!

Atlas can’t tell Race what’s happening. He need to lie because that’s what Atlas believed was the right thing to do. Perhaps if Race will know the truth, everything will change. Perhaps their relationship will change. Perhaps, Race will change. Perhaps this situation will wreck their relationship.

Atlas didn’t know, but that’s all the possibilities that will happen if Race will know.

This is risky. Atlas knew that this was risky and lying to Race was a bad thing and a bad decision.

Race was right, relationship will be stronger if they will true to each other. Lying, perhaps is the one of the reason why everyone broke up-why relationship got ended because one was keeping a secret perhaps for the good intention or perhaps one is lying because they think that it is the right thing or perhaps for their own good.

“Earth to Atlas!” A finger snapped on Atlas face.

Atlas jerked and dragged back to reality from his reverie and he stared directly to Sebastian who snapped his finger twice on Atlas face.

“You’re still alive, thank to God,” Sebastian sit back to his seat. “What are you thinking?”

“Nothing-”

“You’re thinking so deep,” James cut him off. “Deep like an ocean. I can’t see the depth.”

“Where and when did you lean to talk like a poet?” Atlas arched his brow.

“Well, teacher Von teaches me-”

Atlas become serious, his eyes darken. “Oh?”

“Oh-oh? Yes! Yes! He teaches me, though it is hard to construct a word-”

“So, you two are now friends?” Atlas leaned back to his seat and dark eyes directly onto James. “I didn’t realized that you two would made a good alliance.” Atlas lifted his brow.

Yet, James smirked instead of getting scared. “Oh-ho-whooo! I didn’t realized that you are a jealous type of a friend, boss!”

Rile scoffed. Atlas glared at him. Rile holds his palm in the air and brought his palm to his mouth to prevent himself from laughing, on the other hand, Sebastian holding his stomach and his face was red because he’s stoping himself from laughing.

Atlas glared at them. “What’s funny?”

Rile shook his head. “No…nothing pfft!”

Atlas face furrowed. “So, you aren’t jealous that our friend here befriended with our enemy?” He gestured towards James who bursted laughing.

James held his stomach and he bursts into laughed. His face red and eyes was teary.

“You’re cute, boss,” James teased.

“Stop it. I have a boyfriend.”

“Yet, you two got into a fight,” dahil sa sinabi ni Rile ay natulala na naman si Race at bumalik na naman sa kaniyang isipan ang mga nangyari kahapon.

Ayos na sana ’yong nangyari kahapon noong bumili sila ng mga bagong pinggan na binasag lahat ni Mr. Monteverde pero nagbago bigla noong pauwi na sila.

Atlas knew that Race felt something strange in him. Race always asked him what’s wrong or what happened, yet Atlas always come up to a lie. Lying to Race that everything is fine, but the truth is not.

Paano siya magiging maayos kung lahat ng galaw niya ay pinapanood palagi ng pamilya niya? Lalo na ngayon na alam na nila ang mga taong malapit kay Atlas. At isa pa, nadamay pa sa gulo si Bridgette kahit inosente ito.

“Does it make me a bad boyfriend because I am keeping a secret from him?” Atlas asked suddenly, he remained staring at the wall while the three of his friends become serious in just a second.

“Did you told him a lie?” Sebastian asked.

Atlas didn’t know what to do. To shake his head or not. “I told him that everything is okay and nothing’s happen and aside from that nothing. I…I just kept all of this from him.” Was all he said.

“Hmm,” Sebastian hummed, perhaps he’s thinking deeply.

“You are not bad though,” James suddenly interfered.

They all looked towards James. “You are not feeding him lies, Atlas. You are just keeping a secret from him and that’s not included as a lie.” They are all shocked at James. They can’t believed that James really said that. “Lie means feeding the people a wrong words or perhaps telling them the opposite. On the other hand, keeping a secret means you keep them with yourself, but you didn’t told them about it. You are not bad, boss because you are not lying. Uhm, except that you are lying about nothing’s happened, but don’t worry Race will understand you if he will know the truth. Race is not narrowed minded, he will understand you though or perhaps not. Perhaps he will leave you after you will tell him the truth because Race can’t take the pain. But, whatever will happened, we are still here with you, boss!”

Ayos na sana ’yung speech ni James kaso dinagdagan nga lang. Lalo tuloy kinabahan at natakot si Atlas. Mas lalong lumala ang pagiging over-thinker niya. Kagabi pa nga niya iniisip ang mga posibilidad na mangyayari kung malalaman ni Race ang totoo.

Kung ano man ang mangyari, tatanggapin niya. Kung pipiliin ni Race na iwan siya…hindi niya alam. Hindi niya alam kung ano ang gagawin niya. Hindi niya alam kung ano ang mararamdaman niya.

Simula noong nakilala niya si Race ay ang daming nag-iba kay Atlas. Dahil kay Race kusang nagbago si Atlas, pero paano na lang kung iiwan siya ni Race? Baka hindi na makilala ni Atlas ang sarili niya. Baka kamuhian na niya ang mundo.

Ngunit kung dadating man ang panahon na ’yan, inisip na ni Atlas na hindi niya papakawalan si Race. Ki-kidnappin niya ito kung kailangan at ipaintindi niya ulit kay Race ang lahat.

He’ll do everything for Race. Everything.

“Hey! Is everybody’s here?!”

Atlas dragged back to the reality when Von’s voice echoed.

Sebastian rolled his eyes and massaged his temple.

“Why that dude can’t shut his mouth?” Sebastian whispered.

“He’s a man, yet he acted sometimes like a stupid motherfucker.” Rile added.

“Did you fed him already?” Atlas glanced at Sebastian.

“He refused,” this time Sebastian massaged the bridge of his nose. It seems like Von really’s getting to his nerve.

“Why?”

“He want a food from italian cuisine.” James answered for Sebastian.

“But aside from demanding of food, he didn’t do such thing. He never tried to escape even though we untied him to eat.” Said Rile.

“Perhaps he’s really wanted to stay here,” James added.

“Well, he can’t-”

“I can pay my bills here,”

They all jerked up and pointed their guns towards Von who’s now standing from a distance.

“How-how…how did-” James can’t finished his word because he was stunned to speak.

“Just like what you said best buddy that I really want to stay here at your mini cute turf.” Von grinned.

“How did you escape?” Atlas asked in a low monotone voice.

“Uhm, I’m not stupid you know-”

“How. Did. You. Escape?” Atlas said every word like a thunder.

“Oh…I did some magic hehe.”

Atlas squeezed his eyes shut, he started to feel the ache in his head. Now he experienced what Sebastian experience when he faced this guy.

Fucking fuck.

“Why you did not escape before? Why now?” Rile retorted.

“You know, Doc, being here feels like a vacation,” Von spread his arms and spun around. “This feels like vacation! It feels like I am in an exclusive resort in Maldives or perhaps in Switzerland.”

This motherfucker is getting into my nerve.

Kunti na lang talaga masasapak na ni Atlas si Von dahil kanina pa sumasakit ang ulo ni Atlas sa lalaking ito.

Tama nga ang kaibigan ni Atlas, hindi basta-basta ang lalaking ito. Hindi dapat ito maliitin-aside sa malaki nga siyang tao at maskulado pero mahusay din ang isang ito.

Nakatakas nga sa kulongan kahit ilang lock na ang inilagay nila. Imposibleng mangyari ’yon dahil nasa kanila pa naman ang mga susi, wala namang nawala sa susi ng selda at wala namang gamit si Von para buksan ang mga kandado at isa pa parang hindi naman pinagpawisan si Von na buksan ang selda.

Kung ano man ang ginawa ng lalaking ito para buksan ang mga kandado, isa itong delikado.

“And aside from that, I’ll stay here to wait your due date,” Von added.

“Due date?” Atlas asked, confused.

“Due date! Today is your last day to retrieve that painting. I want to witness everything. All the drama, the action, the tragedy, all of them! I want to witness what will happen today.” Von said and seated on the couch.

Kumunot ang noo ni Atlas ngunit hindi siya nagsalita habang nakatitig pa rin siya kay Von at ang baril ay nakatutok pa rin sa binata.

Ilang sandali pa ay nagsalita ulit si Von. “Aren’t you going to do something?” He crossed his legs.

“I will not steal anything-”

“It’s retrieve not steal.” Von corrected Atlas that makes him irritated more.

“Whatever,” Atlas rolled his eyes.

“So, you gonna let your mother kill your beloved boyfriend and that innocent girl, mhmm?”

Atlas clenched his jaw. He was about to pull the trigger when Sebastian come to the view and shook his head at him.

“Why are you blocking my view, Sebastian?” Asked Atlas. “Let me kill that bastard.”

“Cool down, Atlas-”

“Cool down? How can I do that when that bastard is the reason why my boyfriend and Bridgette is in danger!” Atlas exclaimed.

“It’s not me, Atlas. Perhaps you are not just cautious to your actions. Nadala ka sa damdamin mo kaya hindi mo na napapansin ang nasa paligid mo.” Von interfered.

“Fucker-”

“Stop it, Atlas. We need to think a plan. We like it or not, we need to retrieve that painting or your mother will…” Sebastian didn’t finished his words. He just shook his head like Sebastian was telling Atlas to think first.

Atlas dark eyes didn’t disappear as he put down his gun. “I will not gonna do it-”

“You have no option! You parents will do something terrible to Race and Bridgette if you disobey them again perhaps you father will give you a five hundred whips to punish you!” Sebastian exclaimed, looked so mad.

“You cannot understand, Sebastian,” Atlas pointed his index finger accusingly to Sebastian. “You are not in my shoe! You cannot understand what I felt today, okay? You cannot understand me! You didn’t felt what I felt! Because of this I can’t focus! Because of this my mind was always in chaos! I can’t think clearly because of thinking what to do! Do you think that I like to see my boyfriend and my friend suffer because of me? Do you think I like this huh?!” Atlas can’t help but exploded.

Natahimik lahat ng tao na naroon kasama ni Atlas. Lahat ay nakatitig lang kay Atlas kung paano hinabol nito ang kaniyang paghinga.

Atlas looked messed. There’s a black circle on his eyes. Everyone can see in Atlas’s eyes that he’s exhausted.

“I am so sorry,” Sebastian whispered.

Atlas shook his head once again. “It is hard for me to think a better plan, Sebastian. It is my boyfriend’s father’s painting. Mr. Monteverde owns it and it is hard for me to retrieve that painting because they are also…my family.” The last word was a whispered as Atlas slowly seated on the couch.

“We can retrieve it and swap it with an imitation, so they can’t notice that the real painting got steal,” Rile suggested.

“Mhm, sounds great!”

Tinapunan ng matalim na titig ni Sebastian si Von. “We are not asking for your opinion,”

Von holds his hands in the air. “Okay, okay!”

“Or perhaps I will retrieve it?” Sebastian suggested.

“Are you dumb? What if they will caught you?”

“Trust in me, Atlas.” Sebastian winked.

“No. You will not do it,” Atlas shook his head and take a deep breathe. He squeezed his eyes shut and said, “I will do it.” He said.

They all went silent and they all stared at Atlas. But the silence broke when something bangs in the door.

They all spun towards the door, guns pointed at the door and ready to fire when August stepped in.

“Kuya?” Atlas brow furrowed.

“H-Hello,” he said and tried to wave his right hand but August hissed and fell on the floor.

“I will get the first aid, he’s bleeding.”

“What?!” James panicked.

“Uh-oh! He got the painting!” Von announced happily.

While Atlas stopped and stared at his brother.

“What did you do?” Atlas asked in horror.

“I retrieve it since I can tell that you can’t do it because he’s your boyfriend, yet I got caught and Servantes shoot me on my shoulder.”

Napatakbo si Atlas papunta sa kaniyang kuya at tinulongan itong tumayo. “Are you dumb?! Why did you do that?! What if they killed you?! Are you thinking?!” Galit na sabi ni Atlas nang iupo niya ang kaniyang kuya sa sofa.

“Don’t worry, they didn’t saw my face though. I wore a mask,” August inhale.

Rile came and he med August immediately.

Von suddenly snatched the painting and he observed it.

Atlas tried to steal it but Von didn’t let him.

“What are you doing?” Asked Atlas.

“Atlas, there’s the second reason why I stay,” Von smiled sweetly at him. “It is because I want to steal this painting from you after you retrieved from the Monteverde and Servantes.”

“What?!”

Mabilis na itinutok ni Sebastian at James ang kanilang baril kay Von pero ang binata ay parang walang pake at parang hindi man lang natakot.

“Third reason is,” he gazed at the painting. “This painting was painted by my great grandfather and I am going to retrieve it since we own this painting in the first place.”

Hindi makapaniwalang napatitig si Atlas kay Von. Biglang pumasok sa isipan ni Atlas ang pangalan ng nagpinta sa painting.

Napangisi si Von nang makita ang reaksyon ni Atlas.

“The painter of this masterpiece was my great grandfather Von Sukulov Malforie III and I am Von Sukulov IV. Nice to meet you all!” And with that Von threw a gas smoke.

“Fucking fuck!” Atlas exploded. He can’t pull his trigger because Atlas can’t see the surroundings.

“Where did that fucker go?!” He shouted.

After a moment, the smoke finally gone and Sebastian said, “He’s gone with the painting,” a paused. “And he leave something.” Sebastian pointed the painting on the couch.

“The imitation of the real painting.” Rile continued.

“Go. Give it to our mother before she take an action.”

And Atlas leave with the painting.

 * * *

“I’m quitting,” malamig na bungad ni Atlas sa kaniyang mga magulang sabay bigay sa imitate na painting. “And don’t fucking disturb my life again.” He added.

Taas kilay na tinignan siya ng kaniyang ina mula ulo hanggang paa pagkatapos ay dumapo ang mga mata nito sa painting.

“I thought you wouldn’t do it,”

Nagtiim ang bagang ni Atlas habang nakatitig sa kaniyang ina. Atlas felt like an unlucky son in the world for having a parents like them.

Cruel.

“And I did what you told to me. Stop fucking my life, mother. I am not your pet-”

“You are the Underground pet, son not ours. You are our son not our pet-”

Atlas bursted laughed. “You making me laugh,” Atlas shook his head and he stared deadly to his parents. “Son? You did not treat me like your son.”

“If that what you felt, then we are out of it. Just remember, son that we are your parents. We love you just like parents love their children!”

Abot langit ang inis ni Atlas sa kaniyang ina lalo na sa tuwing ngumingiti ito na para bang iniinis siya.

“I know that you are a good son, Atlas,” his father said. He’s examining the painting and he run his finger through the canvas. “I know you won’t disappoint us.” His father smiled so sweetly.

“We are so proud of you, son.” His mother said.

“We can trust you, son. You didn’t disappointed us. You made us proud!” His father added.

Kung hindi pa namulat sa mundo si Atlas at kung hindi pa niya nasaksihan ang lahat siguro masayang-masaya siya ngayon na pinupuri siya ng mga magulang niya dahil sa kaniyang trabaho. Ngunit hindi na siya ’yong Atlas na inosente. Hindi na siya ’yong Atlas na iniikot lang ng kaniyang mga magulang. Hindi siya ’yong Atlas na pani-paniwala sa mga kasinungalingan ng mga magulang niya.

Namulat na si Atlas. He’s not innocent anymore. He’s not dumb. Alam na niya kung ano ang pinaggagawa ng mga magulang niya at kung gaano kasama ang mga magulang niya.

Siguro noong bata pa siya ay tinitingala niya ang mga magulang niya dahil akala ni Atlas na mabuti at tama ang ginagawa nila. Pero lumaki si Atlas at namulat.

Nagbago siya. Malaki ang pinagbago niya lalo na noong dumating si Race sa buhay niya.

Ngayon, ang mga ngiti ng mga magulang niya na pinapakita sa kaniya ngayon ay hindi na tatalab sa kaniya. Kumukulo na ang dugo niya sa tuwing ngi-ngiti ang mga magulang niya. He didn’t hate his parents like this before. He more hates his parents today. More than everyone knows.

“I will say this again,” his voice was hard as rock. “Leave me in peace. I want to live in peace. Do not disturb me again.”

Tumaas ang kilay niya habang nanatili namang nakangiti ang ama niya sa kaniya.

“If you won’t let me leave at peace, if you threaten me and the people around me…I will go to war against you. I don’t care if you are my parents, I will kill you without hesitation.”

With that, Atlas leave with the black card that the Underground gave him.

CHAPTER 34

Race watched his fathers as they talk to the police about the incident that happened earlier.

It happened so fast. Race was in his room when he heard a gunshot and when he rushed to the door, he saw his Papa holding a gun and the painting was gun.

After his fathers talk to the police, they all went to Race. “Are you alright?” His daddy asked him.

“I’m alright,” he answered. “I’m just stunned, dad.” He paused a second before he continued. “What about you, Papa? Are you alright? Did that robber hurt you?”

Hades shook his head and he patted Race’s shoulder. “He run after he stole the painting other than that nothing. When saw me, he didn’t shot me though that robber was holding a gun.”

“But the painting…” Atlas slowly looked at his daddy. “You bought it, dad.”

Isaiah loses long breathe and smiled. “The painting is not important. I’m just glad that nothing happened both of you are safe.”

“Aren’t you mad or upset that he or she stole your painting?” Race asked again.

“The painting is nothing to me, it just a painting-”

“But that painting worth a million.”

“Son, I love you and your Papa. You both are much worth more than a painting that cost a million.” Isaiah sighed and glanced at the place where the painting was replace before. “It hurts me a million if I lose both of you.”

“Aw, my Isaiah is very affectionate!” Hades hugged Isaiah to ease the heavy atmosphere.

And it works because Isaiah’s mood change in a second. His face furrowed.

“Don’t aw-aw me, Hades. You are such an idiot! Why you didn’t kill that robber?!”

“Because I am not a killer,” Hades answered. “But-” Hades hugged Race and Isaiah. “If my man got hurt, I will burn down the world.”

Race almost laugh because of what he’d heard. He can’t believed that his parents talked like this.

“Yeah, very exagg,” Isaiah rolled his eyes, yet it didn’t leave Race’s eyes when he caught his daddy Isaiah smiled a little-trying to suppressed his smile.

“It is lucky that Atlas didn’t came here, if he’s here, I dunno what will happened,” Race stared at his Papa and looked away.

His parents told him yesterday that Atlas was coming back today. Take note: Atlas promised to comeback, yet he did not come.

Race wondered if Atlas already knew the news that someone broke in their house and stole the painting. Perhaps, Atlas didn’t know about this because he’s still not here to checked on him.

Race was truly guilty when he pushed Atlas away yesterday. He truly regretted it after he get inside his room and had a reflection. He wanted to open the door and to apologized for being not an understanding boyfriend for him. Yet, Race was ashamed to do it. He was ashamed because he just pushed Atlas then in a minutes he was considering to open the door hoping that Atlas was still there waiting for him and apologized.

When Race finally made his decision after a minutes, he opened the door but he didn’t saw any traces for Atlas. He didn’t saw Atlas waiting at him outside his door, he didn’t even saw Atlas’s shadow.

His parents showed up and said that Atlas left and promised that he will comeback by tomorrow.

Race felt guilty. And he promised to himself that he will not do it again. He shall not repeat the mistake.

And the tomorrow came and someone broke their house and stole the painting. The police left after their investigation and yet Atlas didn’t came.

Race was alone in his room, staring at the ceiling and had a debate with himself. He had a debate if he call Atlas or not.

Something was telling him not to call Atlas because perhaps Atlas was mad at him for pushing Atlas away yesterday. Perhaps Atlas was upset at him? That is what Race was afraid of. He didn’t like Atlas being upset or mad at him.

But there’s also an urged that he want to call Atlas to checked on him and to invite him here in Race’s house and talk.

“Jesus,” Race hissed. “This making me crazy.” He added and rolled and he’s on his stomach, reaching his phone and can’t help and can’t stop himself anymore.

He dialed Atlas’s number. But the call operator answered him that his number he’d dialed is unattended-Race hung up it immediately and he called Atlas back, yet he was answered again by a call operator.

Race called Atlas thrice and for the fourth times, yet it was all the same.

Due to the frustration, Race threw his phone on the wall and buried hi face on his bed and he shouted to released some frustration.

It didn’t help thought because he become more frustrated since he kept on wondering if Atlas was really turned off his phone to avoid him because Atlas was mad or perhaps mad at him.

Ugh. Fuck this shit.

After a minutes of shouting, Race finally relax, yet he didn’t felt light. His body was heavy. His heart was heavy.

“God. I miss you so much, Atlas.” He whispered.

If he didn’t pushed Atlas away yesterday, perhaps Atlas was there with him. Perhaps Atlas will come here and won’t stop irritating him, yet Race loves it.

Race jerked up and grabbed his phone. He missed Atlas so much. If Atlas won’t answer his phone calls perhaps he will come to Atlas himself to see Atlas.

Oh-oh, finally. Race decided to make a first move.

Race hurried and he opened the door and he stopped.

His breathe stop. His world stop spinning.

Atlas was stunned, fist stopped in the air-perhaps he was about to knocked but Race opened the door.

They both looked stunned. No one blink, they just stared at each other. Starstruck. It’s like it’s their first time to meet each other.

Race felt his heart beating so fast.

“H-Hey,” Atlas said at last, blinking.

Race gulped and opened his door wide and he stepped aside to let Atlas stepped in his room.

“I heard that…someone stole the painting…” Atlas can’t looked at him. He’s not facing Race.

“Yeah…” Race sighed and walk towards his bed and sit on the edge-and now he’s facing Atlas who’s looking on the floor. “We’re glad that nobody’s hurt. Perhaps the robber only wanted the painting since he just stole the painting alone.” He added.

“I’m sorry,” Atlas whispered yet it is enough for Race to heard.

Race’s eyebrow furrowed. His eyes narrowed at Atlas who still can’t look at him in the eyes. “What for?” Race asked, curious.

Instead Atlas said, “I’m really sorry,” finally, Atlas looked at him and Race’s heart fluttered. “If…if I only had here perhaps-”

“I’m glad that you are not here when the incidents happened,” Race cut Atlas off. “There’s a gunshot incident here. The robber got shoot in the shoulder and if that robber fought perhaps we all get hurt. We’re just lucky that the robber run away.”

Atlas averted his eyes again and Race can see something in Atlas eyes yet he can’t tell what it is.

Race also felt that Atlas was keeping a secret from him again.

Race didn’t know if he really knew his boyfriend because he really thought that Atlas was lying to him and kept on keeping a secret from him.

Race really wanted to open it up, wanted to ask Atlas about his problem and what’s bugging him because these past few days Atlas was not with himself. Yet, if Race will ask Atlas, perhaps Atlas will not answer him or he will not tell the truth.

What’s the point of asking when he all got was a lie again?

At last, Race sighed and made up his mind that he will sealed his mouth and never asked about Atlas’s problem and he won’t ask about Atlas’s secret because Race thought that if Atlas really care for him and really trust him perhaps Atlas will tell him the truth.

Perhaps Atlas was not fully comfortable with him and Atlas was not fully trusted him.

Instead, Race said, “I’m sorry,” he looked straight in Atlas’s eyes. “I’m so sorry about yesterday, I truly am.” His heart pounded so hard-afraid what might Atlas reaction. “I just carried away with my emotions. I was mad because you will not tell me about your problems like I am not your boyfriend, but then I understand that not everything is I need to know. I realized that you have a life too, you deal with a different problems. I’m so sorry if I acted that way, it is my first time to enter in a relationship and…and it is a man. I don’t know how to handle it, I am not clingy as you. I am not affectionate as you. I-I just carried away because I really thought that you don’t trust me that much. But, don’t worry, Atlas I tried my best to understand you and to respect your decisions. If you have a secret it is fine with me if you are not comfortable to open up with me.

We are just starting, so I understand that we are still building our trust at each other. I really understand that now. I’m really sorry about yesterday. I’m so sorry if I pushed you away. I’m so sorry if I hurt you. I really want you to trust me, Atlas. I am your partner. If your problems are too heavy for you and you can’t take it anymore, you can come with me and relay on me, I don’t care if it too much. If your problems are too much for you, give the half to me and I will help you to ease the heaviness.

If you wanted to cry because it is too much for you to hold it, then come to me and we will cry together because that’s what relationship works. Trust, understanding, respect, and empathy.“

Race blinked. He didn’t realized that he said a lot. He realized that he just did a speech in front of Atlas, whom staring at him with adoration, gentle, love and understanding in his eyes.

Race shook his head and averted his eyes. He can’t meet Atlas eyes. Race was blushing because he was embarrassed at what he’d said. It comes out from somewhere he didn’t know.

“I’m so sorry…I talk to much-” he stopped and stared at the man in front of him who kneeling and buried his face on his stomach.

Race caress Atlas hair.

“I’m so sorry too,” Atlas said again against Race’s stomach.

Atlas was kneeling on the floor and his face was buried on Race’s stomach. Atlas arms tighten around Race waist, it is like he can’t let go Race. It is like anytime Race will be gone.

Race sighed, “stop apologizing. I truly understand why you kept a secret to me, Atlas. There’s a thing that we really need to hide so we can’t hurt someone. I understand you.”

Atlas kept on shaking his head like he really want to said something but stopping himself.

“I’m so sorry,” Race caress Atlas’s hair.

Atlas looked up and brows furrowed. “Why are you keeping on saying sorry? I am at fault, Race. I am the one to say sorry-”

“I am so sorry if I pushed you away,” Race cut Atlas off. “I will not do that again.”

Atlas pouted. “You better not.”

Race smirked and planted a kiss on Atlas’s head.

“You’re cute,”

“Nah, I am a mad, Race. I’m not cute, I am handsome.”

“God. I really miss you so much,”

Atlas’s embraced tighten. “Don’t pushed me away again. If you will do it again, I will not go away. I will stay until you take it back.”

“I will not do it again,” Race promised.

“Good. But if you break your promise, I will punish you in my room.”

Geez.

Race cringed.

Atlas smirked and winked at him.

Race just shook his head at his boyfriend cockiness. Just like he expected.

“Let’s go on a date?” Race asked.

“I’d like that.” The cocky Atlas grinned and stood up and held Race’s hand as they go out.

CHAPTER 35

“I haven’t seen you around for how many days,” Race and Bridgette walked side by side.

Bridgette smiled sweetly at him. “I got busy.”

Race lift an eyebrow as he stared at his friend who can’t kept her smile with herself.

“Who is he?” Race asked. He thought he knew why Bridgette smiled like that and why Bridgette looked blooming today.

“I didn’t say anything-”

“Yet your actions tell the opposite.” Race counters.

Bridgette pouted but after a minutes, she smiled and she flushed. “He’s handsome…and intelligent and he really cared for me. He’s always there when I need someone-”

“You can call me every time, Bridge. I am your friend too, I’ll be there if you needed me.”

“I know that!” Bridgette patted his back and looked at their path again. “It just felt different when he’s around. I badly want to call you but he already came and I realized that you are not single anymore. I don’t want Atlas to think different and I don’t want him to hate me.”

Race stopped and tilted his head. “He’s your friend too. We are your friends. You are not a burden or anything.”

“Yup! Yup! Yet, I want him only for me! I think I fell in love with him!” She squalled and giggled, she become scarlet as if she was thinking of a thing that makes her blush like that.

“Well, whoever he is. I am your supporter,” Race showed a boyish smiled. “But if he hurt you, I’ll call Atlas and torture that boy.”

Bridgette jest bumped him and giggled. “How sweet!” Bridgette smiled. “But don’t worry he won’t hurt me…if he will, I will cut his dick and feed it to the starving crocodile!”

Race can’t help but laughed and shook his head as they continued walking to their next class.

After a moment of silent, Bridgette asked Atlas.

“What about you and Atlas? How’s your relationship going?”

Atlas took a deep sighed. “We had our first fight,”

“Congrats!”

Race stopped and looked at Bridgette with full of confusions in his eyes.

“And why are you congratulating me?”

Bridgette chuckled. “Because finally you had an official fight with your boyfriend! An official fight as a couple!”

“Yeah, and you are happy that we’d fought?”

“Um, no. I’m not congratulating you because I am happy, yet-” Bridgette smiled sweetly at him. Race lifted an eyebrow. “It is a good sign that your relationship is really working.”

Still confused. Race just stared at his friend, but he did not say a word.

“A relationship won’t work if you don’t have a fight or a misunderstanding with your partner. It doesn’t mean that you have a fight your relationship is failing, that is a sign that both of you pay attention to each other and you know what? A fight will make your relationship stronger when you will fight your own battle and when you succeeded to the battle that you and your partner fighting with when you are together.” Bridgette gazed at him and smiled. “Do you understand what I’m saying?”

Race blinked.

Bridgette sighed. “Ito para mas maintindihan mo ang sinasabi ko, kung nalagpasan ninyo ang pinag-aawayan ninyo ibig sabihin ay magtatagal kayo dahil pareho kayong hindi sumuko, pareho kayong kumapit sa relasyon ninyo, pareho kayong hindi bumitaw. Ibig sabihin na sa susunod pang mga problema na dadating na pag-aawayan ninyo o may mga hindi man kayo pagkaintindihan ay alam niyo na kung ano ang gagawin ninyo because you’ve been there. Masarap sa feeling ’di ba na nagkaayos na kayo at nalagpasan ninyo ang pinag-aawayan ninyo?”

Race was stunned to speak. He was just staring at his friend who’d spoke to him with a life lesson.

“Thanks,” was all he said.

“You’re welcome,” Bridgette patted his shoulder. “Perhaps you can’t understand me or what I said to you, but I know you will realize it eventually.”

Race just nodded his head because he have nothing to say.

Suddenly Bridgette jumped to her feet and move closer to him.

“I forgot to ask you about the robbing incident in your house,” she whispered.

“Oh, about that…we are trying to forget what happened.”

“Why? Did your parents god hurt?”

“No, we’re fine, totally fine. We just…don’t want to think that again. It’s not important though and we are fine, my daddy is fine even though his painting was gone.”

Bridgette pouted and nodded her head as a sign of understanding, but Race knew that Bridgette wanted to asked him more.

“Sinisekreto ba ng family mo ang nangyari?” Suddenly Bridgette asked.

Race went stilled.

Secret.

It just a word, but has a biggest impact to him.

Secret. That was the reason why him and Atlas fought.

Race started to hate secret. He hates secret. He hates it when Atlas kept a secret to him. Ha hates it when he felt when Atlas was keeping something from him. But, he had learned from his mistake. He won’t do it again. Another reason why him and Atlas had fought because he was not understanding boyfriend as he called to himself.

He was not an understanding boyfriend than he should be. But now Race was trying his best to be a better boyfriend. He will try his best to an understanding boyfriend and tried not to repeat his mistakes again.

“It’s not a secret, though we don’t want to talk about that again,” he replied.

“Oh, sorry…”

“It’s fine,” Race smiled at her so manly. “Let’s go? We’ll be late in our class.”

“Geez! I forgot! It’s already time!”

And they both hurried to their next class.

---

Atlas patiently waited for Race to finished his class, they planned to eat outside today.

Sometimes, they won’t see each other because of their hectic schedule. But they are lucky to each other since they always understand each other.

It already a weeks since that incident happened and just like what Race have said, they already forgot what happened. They already moved on.

On the other hand, Bridgette seemed happy and blooming every day. She always smiled and she’s always with her phone. There were times that Atlas and Race saw Bridgette talking with someone on the phone and Bridgette was happy. Of course, Atlas and Race was happy for Bridgette too.

Other than that, Atlas was still thinking if he will tell Race the truth. It is easy to say, but it is hard to do.

Yesterday, Atlas tried to be open with Race. He tried tell Race his secrets, but he can’t open his mouth. Atlas felt that something was keeping him from telling Race all his secrets and that’s the fear of losing Race.

Telling Race all his secrets, it makes Atlas visible to Race.

Telling Race all his secrets means Atlas is letting Race to hurt him and it is scary.

But he can’t keep his secrets forever. Atlas have a plan on growing up with Race. He already planned that he will grow old with Race and it will happen if he will let himself to be visible to Race. It means he need to tell Race all his secrets. Atlas won’t let Race doubt him and leave him alone. He won’t let Race break his trust.

They are now building their trust. They are now making their relationship stronger than before and Atlas won’t let these secrets of him to destroy their relationship.

Atlas already knew it. He can’t keep his secrets forever, he need to tell Race.

Atlas sighed and rubbed his face with his palm. Thinking of these makes his head hurts, it feels like he’s solving a math problem.

“I’m going to tell him,” he said aloud. “But I’m not gonna dump all my secrets to him, yet I’ll go slower. First I should tell him the minor secrets before the major, so he won’t be shock, mhmm.” Atlas nodded alone.

“I hope someday you will be able to tell him all your secrets,”

Atlas jerked to his feet. His hand flew to his chest and eyes wide as he stared at Bridgette who burst out laughed.

“I don’t know that you got scared like a cat!”

“Hey! Let me know if you are going to talk to me!” Atlas exclaimed.

“I patted your shoulder, dumbass! You didn’t noticed me and you didn’t heard me calling you multiple times!” Bridgette retorted.

“At least give me a warning!”

“Well, it’s not my fault that you spaced out and you’re talking with yourself about your secrets!”

Atlas scoffed and rolled his eyes. “What did you heard?”

Bridgette stared at him for a while before she said. “I don’t know, I just heard you talking about spilling Race all your secrets.” Bridgette added instantly. “Just to be clear, I didn’t all what you’ve said, okay?”

Atlas sighed and rubbed his face again. “Just don’t tell him about it, okay?”

Bridgette nodded and gave him an approved sign.

“By the way, where is he?” He asked.

“Oh, he’s still inside. He’s still talking with someone,”

Atlas’s left eye twitched at what he’d heard.

“Someone? So, you don’t know her name?”

“I can’t remember his name, but I know he’s the council president.”

“Ah, it’s a he.” His voice wen’t cold and Bridgette can feel it. She can feel the atmosphere changed suddenly.

“You have nothing to worry about, Atlas. They are not flirting, okay? They’re just talking about some stuff. But I know that the President already have a girlfriend.” Bridgette smile was stiffed like she was just trying herself to smile.

Atlas slowly show his smile. The tension in his body disappear.

He didn’t know what happened to him, why he suddenly change when he heard that Race was talking with someone.

He become…possessive.

He didn’t know if it is healthy, he just saw himself lately that he gets easily jealous when someone was talking with Race. He can’t help himself to get jealous. He’s not like this before.

He’s not possessive before as he is today.

He change.

It’s not like he doesn’t trust Race. It’s just…he’s terrified that someone might steal Race away from him.

Atlas smiled sweetly. “Are you going somewhere? Going for a date with your boyfriend?” He changed the topic.

Bridgette went scarlet. “Y-Yes…”

“I’m happy for you, Bridge!” Atlas’s eyes disappeared when he smiled-he fake it though. But he meant what he’d said that he’s happy that Bridgette finally have someone.

“I gotta go!”

“Sure!” Atlas waved his hand as Bridgette run away.

His smile washed away suddenly when he saw who walked out from the room. He taste the bitterness and the venom in his tongue. Even though Bridgette already told him that this boy have a girlfriend, yet he still felt the jealousy.

Fucking fuck. Fucking jealousy. I’m damn possessive.

He’s mine.

Mine. Mine. Mine. Mine. Mine-

“Thank you for today, Race,” said the president.

“No worries, Timothy.”

“See you around!” The president smiled at him-so sweetly and he walked away.

Hmm.

Boy, he’s mine. Race is mine.

“Oh, you’re here,”

“Do you think…possessiveness is sexy?” He asked.

“Are you possessive?” Race asked him.

Atlas smiled at his boyfriend and put his arms around Race waist.

“Uh-huh, when it comes to you.”

“It’s not sexy,”

“Eh?” Atlas pouted.

“Enough with your jealousy,”

“But I am not jealous-”

“Really?”

“Yup!” Atlas pop the ‘p’.

“Uh-huh, then why are you looked like you are going to eat him like you are the eagle and he’s the prey?”

“I’m not looking at him like that,” he whispered.

“Yeah, you are. You don’t look good, too. You looked like an addict-”

“Hey! Why are you bullying me?!” He pouted.

Race rolled his eyes. “I’m just stating the fact.”

Atlas pouted more. “Just don’t fall for him!” Atlas sulked like a kid.

“What made you think of that? What comes to your mind that you are thinking that I will fall for someone else when I am already fallen deeply to your soul and got lost to your paradise? Remember, we already exchange our hearts and there’s no way to take it back.”

Atlas, he thought he might gonna die today.

He lose his shit. He can’t composed himself. He fallen deeply indeed.

Race said all of that without glancing at him and without showing any emotions! How calm when Atlas was dying to calm his own heart.

“It’s not fair…” Atlas whispered.

Fucking fuck.

So, this is love feels like.

PART II - CHAPTER 36

PART 11

CHAPTER

36

“I’m so sorry, I cannot take that,” Race said politely.

Timothy smiled. “But you are eligible for president position for student council president.”

Race laughed a bit, shook his head and said. “Yeah, thanks,” he added immediately. “Yet, I don’t have a leadership. I can’t take that position.”

Timothy pouted. “Don’t worry, Race. I know that you are a good leader. You can lead the students.”

Timothy is such a handsome guy. He’s a fourth year Engineering student and he’s bugging Race for almost a weeks because he wants Race to run for a Student Council President next election. But, Race didn’t change his answer every time Timothy asked him.

“No,” that’s what he always said.

Always ‘NO’.

“Aside that I not eligible to run for a president position, I can’t lead the students, Timothy. Perhaps, you should search for someone who is really suit for that position,” Race shrugged and he smiled so boyish. “Thank you for considering me anyway.”

Timothy stared at him for a moment and then sighed. “If that’s your decision, then I will stop bugging you,” he scratched his head and look away. “Maybe you are right, I should search for someone.” He sighed again as he looked back at Race. “But, If you have an exchange of mind, you can call me, okay? Don’t be timid if you want to hit me, if you already change your mind.”

Race watched Timothy as he searched his phone in his bag. Timothy shouldered his bag after he found his phone and then he faced his screen towards Race.

“Here, this is my phone number,”

Race stared on screen for a moment and he looked up and he catches Timothy’s eyes.

“No need, Tim—”

“Give me your phone,” without Race’s consent, Timothy grabbed his phone and he typed his phone number. After Timothy type his number, Timothy gave his phone back to him. “There, you can call or text me anytime if you want, Race.” Timothy smiled so widely.

Race shoved his phone back to his pocket. “Don’t you have a class?” He asked, lifting his brow.

“Oh, shit! I forgot! I have a meeting today with the council!”

“Oh, see you around then.” Race waved and started to walked away and he suddenly stopped when someone grabbed his wrist and when he looked back, he saw Timothy.

He cocked his brow. “Do you need something?”

Timothy shook his head. “I’m heading that way too,” he said pointing his finger.

“I thought you have a meeting.”

“Oh, yes, but I need to fetch my girlfriend first.”

And they walked together in silent.

Race on the other hand, he’s looking for Atlas. He can’t remain still because he knew that once Atlas caught him with others his boyfriend will get jealous. But, he didn’t do anything, he didn’t flirt with someone, so there’s nothing to worry about.

It’s just, he doesn’t like it when he saw Atlas’s jealous face. Race didn’t want Atlas feel jealousy, he didn’t want Atlas to feel unloved or perhaps to question his worth. Race doesn’t like it.

Timothy showed up last week because he wanted Race to run for a president. Race didn’t know why Timothy knew him, he’s not well-known in this school (that’s what Race believed). Yet, he doesn’t have a heart for that position. Race didn’t think even once to accept that invitation.

“See you around, Race,” Race dragged back from his reverie and he blinked at Timothy. “Just keep in mind that you can call me anytime. Even if it’s not about the election, but you can call me if you need something. I am your kuya, so maybe I can help you in some other thing.” Timothy added. “Especially, when you need an advice from your kuya about relationship.” He winked at Race before he started walking on the other way.

Race didn’t wait Timothy to disappear in his sight, so he turned his back and started to walk, but he stopped when he spotted someone from the distance.

It’s Atlas—watching him. He’s wearing a school uniform, he shouldered the one strap of his bag, leaning on the tree, he got a messy hair and he wore a reading glass.

Race took a deep breathe as he study Atlas from where he stood.

“Damn, hot.” He whispered and started walked toward his grumpy boyfriend.

Race already sense that Atlas was mad or perhaps he’s being jealous again. It’s inevitably that Atlas saw everything, that is why Race felt someone’s staring at him earlier, but he choose to ignored it.

“He’s bugging you again for that president position?” Atlas said when he get closer.

“Yup,”

Atlas cocked his brow and tilted his head. “Why is that? Is he not satisfied to your decision?”

Yup, he’s angry. He’s jealous.

He’s damn cute.

“I made him understand why I don’t want to run for that position,” Race stared at Atlas’s eyes and he didn’t break his stares. “Are you watching for the whole time?” He added.

Atlas tsked and he grabbed Race’s wrist. “I wanted to wait you, so we can leave together, but I saw you two talking and you are smiling at him like you really love talking with him.”

Race didn’t know if he wanted to laugh or to be mad Atlas.

He wanted to be mad because Atlas watched him all the time like a stalker and it makes him creep, yet it makes Race laugh too because he thought that Atlas is cute when he’s jealous.

Race remain calm as he said. “Did you know that it is creepy when you are watching me like an obsess stalker?” He cocked his brow as he let Atlas take him whenever he wants.

Atlas looked back at him with sour face. “I really hate seeing you with someone, especially when I sense that that Timothy felt something to you. Do you want me to stand beside you while you are talking to that boy? If you only know that I want to grabbed his lips because he was smiling at you all the time, so as much as possible I can’t stand near that boy since I don’t want to cause a trouble.”

Race stared Atlas’s back. This last few days he always noticed that Atlas was on his mood. He’s always mad and his brows always met like he’s mad at everything he sees.

“You still can approach me even though I am talking with someone, especially when you feel jealousy. I will let you hear what we are talking about, so you will not overthinking about something.”

“Tss, if you knew that I want to claim you in front of the people who talk to you,” Atlas whispered, yet Race still heard him.

“You can claim, Atlas. I am your boyfriend anyway.”  

Atlas stopped and Race continued walking, he leave Atlas stunned and he never dare to looked back.

“Sometimes you are mean to me, sometimes you are sweet,” Atlas walked beside him.

“You should be thankful that I am have a sweetness inside me.” He retorted.

“Let’s go, let’s eat somewhere and forget about that boy,” Atlas grabbed him and they went to their favorite restaurant.

                         * * *

Next day, he received an unknown message and it said: hey! What’s up?

Race didn’t bothered to reply since he didn’t know who sent him a message, perhaps it was just a mistake, so he chose to ignored it instead.

While he’s taking a rest under the shadow of a tree, his phone beeped.

He got another message, but this time it was from Atlas asking where he is.

Race replied: why?

Atlas : I want to see you, baby.

Race : seriously? We already met earlier.

Atlas : don’t be mean! It is bad to feel that I badly wanted to see my boyfriend because he is my sunshine and my energizer.

Race can’t help but rolled his eyes and he typed a reply.

Race : cheesy.

Atlas : at least I make you flutter wink emoji

Race : dream on

Atlas : babeeee! Tell me where are you hidiiiingg!

Atlas : I miss you so mucccchh!

Such a baby . Race thought and sighed.

Race : good luck for your search and rescue operation, Sir. salute emoji

Race smirked and he pocket his phone. His phone vibrated, but he didn’t bother to pick it up. He wanted to bully Atlas because he really love to see Atlas sulking like a kid.

He stayed there for a moment when he finally spotted Atlas approaching his way.

As he expected, Race can tell that his boyfriend is sulking like a kid. His lips pouted and he stomped hard, it’s so Atlas.

“Congratulations! You made it to round two,” Race teased.

Atlas seated beside him. “You are making fun of me.”

“Oh, no. I’m not making fun of you,” Race bite inside of his cheek to suppress his smile.

Atlas rolled his eyes and he retorted. “I thought you are with that boy again.”

“Who?” Race asked.

Atlas can’t help himself but rolled his eyes. “That boy. That. Boy. You knew him because he was bugging you for weeks!”

Oh. Race knew who’s that boy his boyfriend pertaining to. Race leaned back to the bleacher as he watched the students walked passed by.

“You don’t have to worry about him, he already stopped,”

That gave Atlas a relieved, Race actually heard his deep breathe after he said it like.

Race felt something on his shoulder and when he looked at his shoulder he saw his boyfriend resting his head on his shoulder.

It made Race relieved.

“I’m sorry,”

“For?”

“I’m always get jealous—”

“Thank God, you knew.”

Race can hear Atlas rolled his eyes. He really knew this man so much even though Race is not looking at Atlas he already knew.

Yet, there were days and moments that he can’t tell what was his boyfriend’s feelings. Sometimes he read Atlas wrong. There were times that he thought he didn’t know his boyfriend that much.

Race knew that secrets’s still there deep inside Atlas and Race wants them out, so he will know how to deal with it together with Atlas.

But he will wait.

“That’s not the point,”

Race didn’t spoke and waited.

“I just felt something’s off with that boy,” Atlas whisperer, enough for Race to hear.

“Perhaps you felt wrong. Don’t make judgements, Atlas.”

“I didn’t judge him, it’s the fact, you know?” Atlas looked up at him for a second before he watched the students again and Race did the same thing.

“He have a girlfriend, Atlas. You have nothing to worry about. He is committed to someone,”

“Yeah, Bridge told me.”

Race sighed and he rest his right part of his head on Atlas’s head. So they are now leaning on each other and they didn’t care to the people who is watching them. With disgust perhaps?

“I remember your bucket list,” Atlas started after a moments of silent.

“What about them?”

“What are you planning?” Atlas asked.

Race stared to no one in particular. He’s thinking deeply because he just realized that he forgot about his bucket list.

“I remembered you told me that your next stop was Europe country,”

Race can’t hide his smile. “You remembered.”

“Of course,” and he added. “So what’s the plan? When are you going to travel?”

“I don’t have any particular dates, I haven’t decide yet.” Race looked down at his boyfriend and asked. “Why?”

“I wanna come with you, I got my passport back, so I can finally travel with you anytime.”

Race was caught off guard and he looked at his boyfriend.

“You just take your passport back?” He clarified.

“Yeah,” Atlas added. “My mom holds my passport and I retrieved it yesterday.”

Race was worried for Atlas. It is been a long time since Atlas told him about his family and now that he open it up, Race wanted to know Atlas’s life when he was with his family. Race wanted to know if they are happy, if they go out for a picnic or perhaps to a hiking. He wanted to know if they do a barbecue party every friday night or having a movie marathon with his family.

Atlas didn’t tell him anything. Race remembered that Atlas hates to mention his family. He doesn’t like to talk about them and whenever Race wanted to asked about his family Atlas always nudged the topic, he always avoiding it and it made Race to wonder about what’s Atlas’s relationship with his family. What does it looks like.

Are they treating Atlas as their son or perhaps they are horrible parents that’s why Atlas didn’t want to talk about them.

This leaves Race to wonder and to worried more for Atlas.

“We can leave on your birthday,” Race suggested and it makes Atlas become stiffed.

Atlas leaned back to stared at him. “Are you fucking sure?”

“Why are you stunned? I mean it,”

“Fucking fuck! Why are you so sweet this past few days?” Atlas asked, still cannot believed.

“I’m not,”

“Oh, baby. I never thought that you have a sweet tooth!”

“What?”

“Never mind! I know that we have different competencies, so i understand that you can’t understand me.”

Here comes Atlas again.

“Fuck yeah!,” Atlas smiled widely and he punched the air. “It’s our first time to travel together outside the country! This going to be fun.” Atlas looked so excited, he is too. Race is excited to travel with his boyfriend to his favorite countries. He can’t wait.

                        * * *

Because Atlas is so excited that they are going to travel abroad, Atlas already surfed on internet to the place they will visit.

Atlas listed down all the places they will visit and they planned to take a trip for a weeks or two. Atlas always looked so excited about their trip, of course it is their first trip together as a couple and it is also Atlas’s birthday, yet Race can see something in Atlas’s eyes that he can’t tell what is it.

He wanted to ask Atlas, but he’s afraid that it will make Atlas mad or change his mood.

“Hey, Race!”

Race stopped walking and he turned to the person who shouted his name.

Timothy stopped in front of him. It’s been a days since Race saw Timothy.

The guy smiled at him and wiped his forehead. “How are you?” Timothy is panting and sweating, it is look like he’s been running for an hour.

“Good,” he answered and offered his water bottle.

“Gee, thanks! I really need this!” Timothy instantly drink the water. After he finished, he smiled again and said. “I’ve been running since this morning,” and added. “You know, president stuff.”

“I can tell that you are busy,”

“Oh, yeah. I’m a graduating students and also a president. My hands are full everyday!”

“Congrats in advance, Tim.” Race smiled.

“Thanks, Race. Even though it is exhausting, but I enjoy this,” Race watched Timothy as he drink from the bottle again, but something’s Timothy did that made Race uncomfortable.

Race frown when Timothy sucked and licked the bottle and he looked like he really enjoyed it.

“It taste good!” Timothy giggled and he gazed Race for a moment before he looked away and he licked the bottle again.

Jesus, what’s with this boy?

“There’s a lot in the cafeteria, you can buy there,”

“Really?”

It makes Race uncomfortable watching Timothy almost swallowed the bottle as he licked and sucked the opening. Timothy acted weird today.

It makes Race want to go away from this boy.

“Where are you going, Race?”

Race stopped walking and he slowly turned his head to Timothy. “I need to go, I still have a class to attend,” Race remain calm even though it makes him cringe.

“Let’s go together—”

“No.”

Timothy tilted his head. “What?”

“Before I go to my next class, I will meet my boyfriend—”

“You have a boyfriend?” Timothy become serious.

“Yes—”

“You’re gay ?”

It caught Race off guard, he take a stepped back and take a deep breathe.

“Does it matter?”

Timothy didn’t replied, he kept on staring at Race and Race felt the hair on the back of his neck stood. After a moment passed, Timothy’s lips slowly formed into a smile.

“Oh-hoo! You’re gay !” He said with enthusiasm.

Some looked at their way, but Race ignored them.

“What are you trying to say—”

“Damn, I thought you are straight.” Timothy cuts him off.

Race frowned deeper.

“Do you have a problem with that?”

Timothy instantly hold his hands up. “No, no, no. That’s not what I’m trying to say. You misunderstood me, Race.”

Race become serious, his eyes darken and he said. “What?”

“Geez! I’m glad to hear it, Race. You know, I am not a judgmental person actually I am happy that you admitted that you are gay with full on confidence like you are not ashamed of this and you are not afraid of judgments. It makes me admire you more because you that! You really amazing person and you are one of a kind! You are also cool!”

Race tilted his head and frowned. Atlas was right, there’s something off in this boy that he can’t tell. Timothy is weird. Race thought.

“Don’t you have a class, Timothy?”

“Just call me Tim, we are friends now!” Timothy jokingly hit his shoulder. “I accept you, Race. You are you, okay? Even though you are gay, I wanted to tell you that being gay is not a problem.”

Race wanted to punch Timothy. Race regretted that he stopped when Timothy called him.

“I’m going, I’m cannot be tardy today because—”

“Let me walk you to your next class,”

Not gonna happen weirdo. Well, Race lied about his class, actually he doesn’t have a class today since he finished it all. Today, he planned to meet Atlas and he can’t get through because of this boy.

“No thanks. You can go now, Timothy. I know your hands are full and I am not going to be alone since I will meet my boyfriend later.”

Timothy face change suddenly and he looked so irritated.

“Fine!” He exclaimed. “I’ll gotta go, I have some errands to run.”

Race finally can breath peacefully.

“Sure.” Race said and walked away.

Damn. Weirdo .

CHAPTER 37

Timothy becomes more weirder everyday. Race always spotted Timothy rounding near his class, Race didn’t know if Timothy already memorize his schedule because whenever Race will go to his next class, he always spotted Timothy.

It makes him feel goosebumps seeing that guy around. There’s really something off with that guy. Race chose to avoid that guy since he doesn’t want to have an interaction with that guy. It creeps him out.

At first, Race thought that he’s just social butterfly and an extrovert guy, nonetheless after a days he changed into something creepy. Yesterday, Race received a friend request on facebook, Race often visit facebook, but yesterday someone add him and when he checked who was it-he was shocked and it creeps him more when he saw Timothy’s name. And it doesn’t stopped there because Timothy reacted to all his shared post and his profile, so Race deleted his profile and post yesterday.

“You ditch class?” Atlas smirked at him when he sit next to Atlas.

“I don’t feel like to attend my lit class today,” he sighed and closed his eyes and Timothy flash in his mind.

Earlier, when Race was walking to his next class which is literature, he stopped suddenly when he spotted Timothy again outside his room. But, today was different. Timothy was talking to Bridgette and suddenly Bridgette pointed him and Timothy looked at him with those creepy eyes and smiled.

“What’s wrong?” Atlas’s voice filled his ears. It’s damn comforting.

“Nothing,” he lied.

He won’t tell Atlas hit gut about that guy. Perhaps he only feel that creeps, but the others didn’t or perhaps he jumps into conclusion and at the end he’s wrong all along.

“You wouldn’t ditch your class if nothing’s happened,” Atlas studies Race. “Tell me.”

There’s no way in hell that Race will tell Atlas about what just happened.

The wind messed their hair as they looked at each other’s eyes. Leaves chimes and they are dancing as the cold breeze of wind passed by.

At the end, Race shook his head. “I’m just tired,”

“I don’t have class today, perhaps we can go to our favorite café.” Atlas suggested as he held Race’s hand.

“I love their matcha latte,” Race said, relieved at the changed of topic.

He doesn’t want to talk about what happened and how he is today because he’s really not feeling well and he can still feel the goosebumps. Timothy’s weirdness always crept into his mind like a nightmare, it his first time to encounter a guy like Timothy. Weird and creepy.

Race shook off his thought and he focus his attention to his favorite best friend.

At least Atlas is always here with him. He’s safe.

                    * * * 

“Paris?”

Race shook his head and said. “Nah,”

“Why? It’s a beautiful city, Race.”

“Yeah, I know. Everyone knows it, but I didn’t have a plan to go there.”

Atlas puffed his hair and he scribe something again on his paper.

Atlas is suggesting which city they will visit first once they will arrive at the France-their fifth country that they will visit.

“Everyone loves Paris, so why does it listed on the fifth?” Atlas asked without looking at him.

Race sipped to his matcha latte before he replied, “there’s much better than Paris. I know it’s beautiful and it is called the City of Love. Nonetheless, you should know that there are best country or city aside Paris.”

“Okay, you win.” Atlas give up.

“Thank you.” Race smiled sweetly.

“Next stop is Barcelona,” Atlas looked up and waited for his word.

“It’s a beautiful province in Spain.”

“I know, but why?”

“Is there’s always a reason why I listed these cities and countries?” Race cocked his brows and lean over.

Atlas retreat and shook his bead. “No, boss.” And he’s back on scribing again.

Race watched Atlas list down the city that Atlas wants to visit. Of course, Atlas has a country the he wanted to visit, that’s why Race let him list it all down.

It becomes noisy when some freshmen students entered the café and they are chit chatting about their day. They’re laughing hard and they talk so loudly.

Race folded his arms to his chest and he watched the students buy their coffee.

Young and loud.

“Do you want to go somewhere?” Race gaze back to Atlas who’s still scribing.

“Why? Do you want to go somewhere?” Race asked back.

“I wonder if you wanted to go somewhere with less noisy and somewhere without noisy people?” Atlas said without looking at him.

“Everywhere we go there’s always people, Atlas,”

“We never know.”

“And what place you can recommend?”

“In my room, it just the two of us there.”

Race caught off guard but Atlas didn’t notice it because he’s damn serious about scribing on his book and reading some reviews online.

Jesus, this man is unpredictable.

Atlas noticed that he’s silent and he looked up, tilted his head and asked. “Are you alright?”

“I’m g-good,” Race clears his throat and shook off his thought.

Atlas nodded and he’s back at reading reviews again. Atlas seems like he doesn’t care about them being alone in Atlas’s room. Just the two of them! It didn’t affect to Atlas, but why does Race can’t focus? He keep on imagining something and then he gets red.

Race cover his mouth with the back of his palm and he looked away. He knows that he’s red because of what he thinks and he’s so embarrassed that he really think of it!

God! It doesn’t look like they will do something in Atlas’s room, Race! You mind! Atlas just wanted somewhere without noisy people.

Race like the idea of them being alone, but on what he’s imagining today it makes him to decide immediately that being with Atlas in a quiet place is not a good idea.

“I’m good here,” he said without looking at Atlas, Race doesn’t want Atlas to see him flush with scarlet.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes.” Final and last decision.

“It’s so loud here, are you fine with it?” This time, in his peripheral view he saw Atlas looked at him.

“I’m good, I’m fine here. I don’t want to go somewhere quiet or in your room. I’m fine here. I’m good-”

Race stopped. Shocked. He flushed. Heat travel up to his face like a venom. He heard a squeal and gasp, but he doesn’t mind it.

His heart pounding inside his ribcage. Pounding fast and loud.

Atlas smiled, he noted the shocked on Race face and he deepen the kiss.

Warm. Wet. And they are wild. Nothing could stop Atlas from kissing Race.

Atlas pulled back and he stared directly on Race eyes. Race feels like he’s burning.

“Hey, don’t be scared of me, okay? I will not do anything to you. We won’t do it if you are not ready too.” Atlas said with his soft and gentle voice. They are still close to each other, they can smell the scent of each other.

Atlas smells like rain and coffee-Race’s safe zone and his home.

Race smells like cinnamon and taste like matcha-Atlas’s home.

“Do-do…what?” Race tried to avoid Atlas eyes, but Atlas held his chin.

“I know what you’re thinking,” Atlas smiled. “Even if I am distance away from you. Even if I am not looking at you, but I can feel you, Race. I feel you and I know that you are nervous. I know what you are thinking.”

“No you don’t,” Race retorted. “What…am I thinking?” He added eventually.

Atlas lean in, lips touching Race’s earlobe and whispered, “I really and badly want to touch and feel you, Race,” hot breathe. Baritone voice. Atlas added. “I love to make love with you.”

To Race surprise, he pushed Atlas away and he averted his eyes. He can’t look straight to Atlas eyes when he’s like a tomato, so red.

Damn it! Why does it feels so hot here?

“I’m not thinking of that-”

“You are so important to me, Race,” Race stopped and looked at Atlas. Their eyes met and just like that, they forgot about the world. “And I want to treasure you, I want to keep you. And above that, I respect you.” Atlas smiled and planted a kiss on Race’s forehead.

“But, I am waiting for that moment though.” Atlas added and winked at him before he continued scribing.

Days flies faster, the graduation is near. The school year is near to its end. Race and Atlas will become third year college next year, but before that they will travel first to the places they love.

Everyday, Race noticed that Atlas’s enthusiastic and he always keep bringing up the plans when they will landed on the places they want to go. Race actually saw the child Atlas in a young adult body. He felt like he just witnessed what was Atlas when he was a kid.

He wonder if Atlas traveled with his family way back when he was a kid, he seems so excited that they will travel in European countries it’s like Atlas never travel outside the country.

“Have you already visited a country before?” Race asked, sipping on his favorite matcha latte in their favorite café shop near their school.

“Yup,” Atlas said, popping the ‘p’. He’s busy with his laptop, he’a doing something because his fingers work faster and he really looked so serious and deadly handsome with his messy hair and glasses. Damn hot and sexy too (that’s what Race thought while he kept on staring at Atlas).

“Where?”

Atlas licked his lower lip before he said, “Switzerland, Cuba, Peru, Hawaii, Turkey, Mongolia…” He looked up on the ceiling, perhaps to think and then he shrugged. “I forgot the rest.”

Race mouth parted as he stared at his so nonchalant boyfriend like it’s nothing to him and he doesn’t care that he travel around the world.

After a moment, after Race back to his pace his brow furrowed, narrowed his eyes at Atlas.

So why does he seems so excited like it is his first time to ride a plane? He’s so excited like a child.

Race leaned on his chair, tilted his head to the other side and said. “And here I thought you never ride a plane since you looked so excited about this trip,”

Atlas looked up and pushed his glasses up. “Baby, this is my first time to travel with you. I am excited because I am with you.”

“It’s the same when you travel before-”

“No.” Atlas cut him off. “It’s not the same, Race,” a pause. “Before, I traveled with my family, but I didn’t enjoy since they focus on their work so we end up staying on a hotel. We only travel outside the country because my parents have a business trip and they will brought us with them, I thought it was going to be more fun and I thought I would enjoy it, but no. Nothing was enjoyable.”

Race stared longer at Atlas, he didn’t break his stare. He studies Atlas, his expression and his action and he seems he didn’t care at all.

Race felt sorry for Atlas because he didn’t enjoy those trip. Race wonder again if Atlas really enjoy his childhood because he can see right now that Atlas didn’t enjoy his childhood.

He wanted to know Atlas more. There’s so much buried inside Atlas and he wanted them out and his secrets too.

“I’m excited with this too,” Race said and smiled.

“Let’s make a history.” Atlas added.

“What are you doing? You look so serious,” Race nodded at the laptop.

“Oh, this?” Atlas spun the laptop so he can see what he did and he saw places and food. “I am surfing what’s the best food and spot to the places we will visit.”

Race mouth half open, he’s stunned to speak. He just stared at Atlas and his heart was fluttered. Warmth embraced him, it felt like something touch his heart after he heard Atlas.

He’s really planning this. He’s making the plan. He’s excited about this.

Race smiled and smacked Atlas on the shoulder, “you’re so ready, huh.”

Atlas grinned and continued what he was doing earlier. “I can’t wait.”

They stayed their for a while and they talked more about their plan and Race’s bucket list. Atlas asked about his bucket list but he refused to tell Atlas because he doesn’t want Atlas to read them-he was ashamed to let Atlas read his bucket list. Perhaps, when they finally there at the place they want to go-he’ll do his tenth list on his bucket list.

Atlas leave earlier than Race since he still have a class left, but Race remain in the café since he finished his class.

He’ll wait Atlas in the café because they planned that they will go home together.

One hour passed and Race’s still there, staring on his phone, scrolling down on Instagram. Watching reels and reading some quotes when he heard the door chimed and someone stepped in.

He stopped and looked at the clock, Atlas’s class is not over yet, so it’s not Atlas. Race shrugged and he’s back to his phone again, but he felt different. Someone who just got in didn’t move, he can felt it. Race didn’t ear any steps that someone walk, he didn’t even heard a chair.

Race felt an eyes on his back. He take a deep breathe and he kept his pace normal. He relax.

Someone is watching him.

He can felt it.

Race chose to be brave and he turn slowly to see who comes in earlier and his eyes widen, body becomes rigid and he couldn’t move to where he sit due to his shocked.

“Timothy,” that comes out to his mouth.

Timothy smiled. “Hello, Race.”

    * * * 

Race remain calm even though the boy in front of him is creeping him out.

How long they sit without talking? Perhaps, 30 minutes? Race guessed.

Timothy really have a gut to sit in front of him. Race didn’t failed to show how he hate Timothy’s presence, but it seems like the boy didn’t mind it or perhaps he didn’t noticed.

Race wanted to walk away, he wanted to go, yet he can’t because he’ll wait Atlas there and there’s no use if he’ll text Atlas since Atlas left his phone.

He likes it or not, he’ll stay and wait until Atlas comes back.

A little more, 2 hours is not easy, but he’ll wait.

“Are you waiting for someone?”

Race jerked and he snapped his eyes to the boy in front of him who’s sipping his matcha latte.

“Yeah,” he said, cutting the conversation. He doesn’t want to talk with Timothy.

“Who? Your girlfriend?”

“No-”

“Oh! Sorry, I forgot!”

Race furrowed his brow as he stared at Timothy.

“You’re gay! That’s right! You’re gay, so maybe you are waiting for your boyfriend right?”

Race’s eyes darken. This boy is getting into his nerves. Why does he kept on saying ‘gay’? What is he trying to prove?

“Do you have a problem with that?” Race asked, voice’s hard as rock.

Timothy laughed and held up his hands. “Oh, no! I am not against in your relationship, okay?”

Race’s jaw clenched as well as his fist under the table. This is the first time that he felt anger towards someone like he really wanted to break this boy.

He’s fuming.

“By the way,” Race taken aback when Timothy suddenly lean in and they almost kiss.

“Fucker, stay away from me-”

Race didn’t finished his word when Timothy grabbed his collar and sniffed his neck.

“You smell so nice. I love your smell,” Race’s hands trembling, he cannot move. “I can smell you from afar, Race. Did you know that? I am here because I follow your scent, I know it’s you because I know your scent. I love it since the day I smell you and until now I cannot forget your scent. It is so enticing like I want to bite and lick that scent off to you.”

Fucker. Fucker. Fucker.

Race’s eyes becomes bloodshot. He pushed Timothy away from him and his fist was trembling, he stood and he grabbed Timothy by his collar and he narrowed his bloodshot eyes.

“Don’t do that again, you creep,”

“Do what?” Timothy laughed and licked his lower lip. “I didn’t do anything yet.”

Race’s forehead deepened and he frowned.

“Stay away from me, Timothy-”

Timothy shook his head and said, “I cannot,” he added. “I am addicted to you, Race. It’s your fault, you are so beautiful for a man that I cannot remove you from my system. I always thinking of you. Every night, every morning, when I go to shower, when I eat and when I jock off.”

The hair at the back of Race’s neck stood up as he felt the goosebumps.

Race cannot take this anymore, he can’t stay longer. He cannot face this creep. It makes him want to vomit.

“Creep.” Race hissed and he grabbed his things on the table and he shoulder his bag.

But before Race leave, Timothy said. “Do you know what attracts me more?” Race didn’t stop, “the more you run, the more I love to chase you.” That’s the last thing he heard before he finally leave and he shook off the goosebumps to his body.

Even he’s walking away from the café, he can still feel the intense eyes of Timothy-watching him like a predator. Race didn’t looked back as he walk towards the school. He decide, he just wait Atlas outside his room, he stay in the café with that creep.

Race started to feel unease and danger.

CHAPTER 38

“You’re always on your phone,” Atlas felt Sebastian seated beside him. “What are you doing? I often saw you with your phone and scribing something in your notebook.” When Atlas didn’t speak, Sebastian reached the note and he read it.

“Places I want to go together with my boyfriend…”

Atlas looked up and snatched his note. “Hey, it’s invading privacy, you know?”

Sebastian stared at him amused.

“You’re really in love,” Sebastian shook his head.

He shooed Sebastian away. “Go away, Sebastian.”

But, Sebastian shouted. “Hey, guys!” Rile and James comes into the view. “Our Atlas is planning for a trip with his boyfriend!”

“Hey, are you going to leave us here?” James pouted and Atlas frowned-pushing James away from him.

“It’s my date with Race, okay? It’s my first to travel with him, so you are staying here,” Atlas looked like he was scolding a kid.

“We’re coming, but we are not going to disturb your or interrupts your romantic date with Race.” James swore and held up his left hand.

Atlas stopped scribing and he lifted his brows at James. “Not gonna happen. You,” he pointed James, “stay here. You are my hacker, so you need to tell me what happen here while I am away.”

Atlas saw James pouted and he rolled his eyes before he continued noting down his plan of activities to the places they will visit.

“Your mom is out of the country, right?” Rile said from the opposite sofa.

“I can’t put my guards down, Rile. Who knows what my mother think? I don’t know when she’s going to strike,”

“She didn’t let you quit.” Said Sebastian with a serious tone.

“She won’t let me. He always threaten me,”

Atlas gripped the pen tighter, he can’t focus on writing because his mind was flooded of his anger towards his mother. After his brother retrieved the painting from Race’s parents, Atlas thought that his mother will let him quit from his job and let him live with a peaceful life, but he’s wrong.

His mother tricked him. Every now and then, when he opened up about his retirement, his mother always threaten him to hurt Bridgette (they thought Bridgette is his girlfriend) and sometimes they also threatens Race’s life.

“What are you going to do? You already know that your mother won’t let you quit this job,”

Atlas’s jaw clenched as well as his fist. He stared at up to friends and said. “If my mother going to fight me, then I’ll declare a war against them.”

They all went silent. James gulped and looked at Sebastian who’s staring darkly at Atlas.

“That’s not easy, Atlas-”

“Do I care?” Atlas’s eyes was deadly, it’s dark and metallic. “If they’ll going to hurt the person I love, I’ll kill them even though they are my parents.”

“You’re serious-”

“I am,” said Atlas. “They never treat me as their child, they treat me like their servant. I am not my parents’ slave. I never see them as my parents anymore, they never be a parent to me. A parents won’t do this to their child, Rile.”

Atlas closed his notes and he take a deep breathe to relax. He stopped writing, he rest his head to the sofa and closed his eyes.

Anger filled him, he can’t think clearly when his mind was full of many things, such as killing someone who’ll gonna threaten Race.

“We’re always with your side, Race,”

He heard Sebastian talked.

“I know…” I hope so. I hope you won’t betray me.

“Ah, yeah! If you’re going to declare a war, then we are your soldier!”

With eyes closed, the corner of Atlas’s lips lifted at what James said. It helped him to felt ease and he relaxed a bit. At least his friend’s still there with him.

After a moment of silent, James jested. “I noticed that it is not Atlas seems in love,” Atlas looked at James and waited. “Riles is always on her phone too! I catches him smiling like an idiot at his phone and he did a lip bite!”

All their eyes bored at Rile who cocked his brows at them. “What are you saying?”

“Hey! Don’t deny it! I know what I saw! I am not blind, Rile. You smiled like an idiot and in love stupidly with that person over the phone!”

Rile scoffed and stood up. “You all are weird, I am not in love nor smiling. You’re just hallucinating, James.”

James pouted after Rile left and James murmured something under his breathe, perhaps he cursed Rile to death.

“I know what I saw! Promise, I am not blind! I saw Rile smiling as he typed and I also heard him saying ‘shut up, you made me addicted to you’. Guys, imagine my shocked? I felt the goosebumps!”

It made Atlas and Sebastian smiled. Atlas know that James’s not lying. James is one of the person he knew that didn’t know what to lie.

“I’m waiting for that idiot to write a poem or to write a travel destination,” Sebastian smirked, shook his head while looking at Atlas. “You all are weird when in love.”

“Oh, I guess it’s the power of love?” James hugged himself he daydreamed.

Suddenly, Atlas snapped. Remembering something.

“Speaking of weird,” he looked serious again. “Race acting so weird these days.”

“Perhaps, he comes to his right mind and he realized that he doesn’t love you?” Rile is back and Atlas threw a death glare toward him.

“He’s keeping something to me,”

“Everyone has a secret.” Sebastian shrugged.

Atlas’s brow furrowed deeper. “No. No. I know my boyfriend, he’ll not going to act like that if nothing happened.”

Atlas tried to recall everything that he noticed at Race.

Race’s moves. The way he walked in the public, he’s so conscious, always looking at his side like he was looking for a person.

He sometimes trembled and Atlas caught Race zoning out. Atlas started to think of this when he noticed Race was quivering. He told Race to wait in the café, but after his class he saw Race outside his room, zoning out, he’s thinking something.

Atlas’s terrified at the thought that what is it is his parents who kept threatening Race. What if Atlas’s parents are the reason why Race was not with himself these last few days.

He nee to figure it out with himself if Race won’t tell him.

And if he’ll find out that it his parents behind this, he’ll make sure that his parents will pas for this.

“You’re so scary,” James hugged himself.

“Damn, deadly.” Sebastian agreed.

“I just hope that it’s not my parents, if I figure out that they are behind this…they’ll face a war.”

Sebastian and James stared at him silently, they know that it is not the time for a joke. Atlas looked so serious, deadly serious. His eyes darken whenever he narrowed his eyes, and it is bloodshot, reads to attack. Jaw clenching and unclenching as well as his hands.

“Where’s Race, by the way?” Asked James. “I miss him,”

Atlas sighed and checked his phone for a message. “I miss him too.”

“Where is he? Next time you come here, bring him with you so we can bond!”

Atlas pursed his lips, he looked bored now. “He said that he go out with his parents today. Family bonding.”

“Aw, so sweet.” James giggled.

“I miss him already,” Atlas whispered as his phone chimed.

He picked up his phone immediately, he thought that it might be Race calling him. Perhaps, Race has a telepathic power because he can read Atlas’s mind.

It’s not Race who called.

It’s Isaiah-Race’s father.

Atlas narrowed his eyes-shocked that Race’s father called him. Isaiah never called him.

He answered the phone.

“Sir-”

“Is Race with you?” Isaiah’s voice full of worried filled his ears and Atlas can sense that Isaiah’s terrified.

“He went out with you-”

“ Race is missing. Someone took him .“

---

Race gritted his teeth while he’s watching Timothy with those dark and metallic eyes of him. His hands and feet are tied on the chair and his mouth was sealed with a duck tape.

He was with his parents, having a good time eating in a five star cuisine. He went to the comfort room to pee when something hit his head-not stronger, yet it made him feel dizzy-the last thing he remember was someone dragged him and when he open his eyes, he’s already tied on the chair.

He’s throwing a death towards Timothy who’s smiling since he opened his eyes.

This fucker is an addict.

Race didn’t thought that Timothy would kidnapped him even though he’s in the public. Perhaps, the addict planned this well.

Race shoot Timothy another deadly stare. Race knew that it wouldn’t help him to escape here, but he really hates this boy.

Race knew that Timothy was a weirdo, but he didn’t thought that he’ll do this to him. This fucker wanted dead-or perhaps he’ll be dead right now.

“Look!” Timothy walked happy towards him and he showed his phone, “you’re so beautiful, Race.” He added. It was his picture that was taken by Timothy earlier.

He was asleep, already tied up on the chair. Timothy was smiling on the camera as if he’s enjoying it. He really enjoyed this.

“Here’s another one!” He excitedly swiped the screen and another picture shown. This time, Race’s forehead furrowed and adrenaline rush to his spine down to his foot.

It was another picture of him and Timothy, but Timothy was not just smiling-he licked Race’s neck.

Race groaned and he said something like ‘fuck you, asshole!’ But it was muffled since his mouth sealed.

“Shh, I am not done,” Timothy giggled and Race wanted to kicked Timothy’s balls-he’s lucky that Race’s feet was tied up.

Another swipe and picture shown.

Race wanted to fucking escape, another adrenaline rush to his body. Hair on his body stood because he felt the goosebumps.

Timothy was biting his neck like a vampire.

How much did he fucking enjoy my fucking body?! Race thought-trying to escape but the tie was so tight he cannot move.

“Here! Here!” Timothy swipe the screen and a video played.

“Here’s my sweetie little pie,” Timothy said in the video while filming Race. He’s asleep and bruises on his arms was visible. “He’s so damn beautiful, isn’t he?” Timothy laughed as he walked closer to Race.

“Jesus, I never though someone would made something like this so beautiful! His face,” -Timothy touched his face and Race flinched while he’s watching intently- “His lips,” the video shifted from back camera to front camera.

Timothy and Race showed in the video. Race was still asleep and he’s naïve what happened to him and he’s clueless what Timothy did to him.

“His lips is soooo pink! I wanted to devour this lips, I wonder what his lips taste like. But, I’ll do it a later.” Timothy laughed like a monster and Race who’s watching wanted to kill Timothy. His hand are clenched and unclenching.

“His neeeeckk,” Timothy whistle and he licked Race’s neck. Timothy licked his lips after and grinned. “So, damn delicious!”

Race muffled something but it was muffled again. He tried to moved, but Timothy hold him still and shoot him a death glare. Race was not afraid of that glare, it was an empty threat for Race, nothing more like Atlas’s intense stare.

“Stay still and watch the video, Race. Don’t make me angry or you wouldn’t like it what I can do to you, bitch.” Timothy fisted Race’s hair and the video continued playing.

“I cannot remember when was the last time that I taste like this,” he giggled on the background. “Hmm, since my little Race is sleeping,” Timothy moved from the video. He moved and Race thought that he placed the camera because Timothy showed in the video with him at the back still tied up.

Timothy grinned at the camera first and wave before he turned his back from the camera and faced Race.

Timothy lifted up Race’s head and said, “oh, my little Race,” and added. “You’re so fucking beautiful.”

Race’s eyes widen as he watched the video. Timothy slowly knelled down in front of him and tugged down his pants and the next thing happened made Race gagged, he felt like he wanted to vomit. He felt the nauseas climbing up to his throat and he gagged again when he heard on the video his groans and moans.

Race wanted to cry. He become stiffed and he cannot take it anymore. He cannot watched himself, humiliated with an addict person.

Race averted his eyes and squeezed it tightly. Yet, moans and groans was still heard on the video. He wanted to shut his ears so he cannot heard himself moaning and groaning. Race didn’t know if that was because he likes it or perhaps he’s groaning because he doesn’t like it.

He hate it. Race hate this. He hate what he saw. Ha hate was he heard. He wanted to shut his ears. He doesn’t like it hearing himself.

Fuck you. Fuck you.

Timothy groaned while he’s watching himself.

Race shut his eyes and he kept saying in his mind: ‘stop. Stop. Stop. Stop.’

“You heard yourself?” Timothy turned off the phone and lifted Race’s head. “You moaned as if you are asking me to suck you deeper and harder,” Race shoot him a deadly glared, but Timothy only smiled at him. “You like so much.” Timothy added.

Fucker .

His heart squeeze to tight, he cannot breathe for air. Race felt helpless, he cannot fight for his life. He cannot fight. His heart squeezed and it hurts him a lot.

His fucking heart.

Race praying his heart won’t palpitate right now. He cannot survive if he’ll palpitate while he’s on this state.

“No wonder why your boyfriend stay because you’re so delicious, one taste is not enough.”

Atlas. Atlas.

He’ll come for me for sure. My parents will find me.

His heart squeezed.

“Maybe, your boyfriend only stay because you taste like heaven,” Race harshly avoided his face to Timothy’s hands, but Timothy gripped his jaw tightly.

It hurts him. He felt nails dig to his skin.

“I told you, you are for me. You made for me, Race,” Race felt the horror when Timothy slowly knelled down, looking up at him. Race wanted to kick Timothy, but he can’t. He’s tied up on the chair and when he tried to move Timothy hold him still and with a flash, Race’s pants tugged down together with his brief.

Terrified. That’s what Race felt right now. He’s terrified what happened next. He panicked. He kicked-nothing happened. He tried to shout for a help-still nothing happened. It made it exhausted trying to escape when the reality was he cannot escape.

In the back of Race’s eyes watered as Timothy sucked his manhood. Race shook his head, he won’t cry. He won’t cry. He won’t break.

Race averted his eyes and he shut his eyes tightly. He cannot take watching Timothy humiliated him.

Timothy licked and sucked his manhood and Race didn’t know why he felt this way.

He groaned and he moaned. He doesn’t like this. He doesn’t like what happened to him. Someone humiliated him and he fucking hate it that this boy got his virginity.

Fucking fuck . Race hate this. He wanted to go out. He wanted to escape. He wanted someone to help him, but he felt helpless. He cannot do anything. He cannot fight. He thought he’s weak. He cannot do anything to save himself from his creep.

Race thought that he’s strong, but on what happened today, being humiliated made him weak. Being rape made him weaker. He can’t feel his body anymore. Timothy feasted his body, Timothy enjoyed humiliating him while Race wanted to be dead right now.

Help. Help. Somebody help me. I don’t want to be here. Help. Someone. Please, help me. Please, help me escape out of here. I don’t like this. I hate this. I am dirty. Help me. Please.

A singe tear escape from Race’s eyes. Hi body shook and trembling.

Atlas won’t like him anymore. Atlas will hate him. Atlas will think he’s dirty and a slut. Atlas will leave him. He’s not clean. He’s dirty. Someone rape him and Atlas will leave him. Atlas will stay away from him. Race’s heart squeezed at the thought of Atlas leaving him.

Another single tear escape and he shook his head immediately.

Help. Atlas, help me. Dad, help me. Papa, where are you? I need you. I need you. Help me out of here. I don’t want here anymore. Help me, please.

Heart squeeze tight, he can’t breathe. He breathe but it was shallow, faster and not normal.

Timothy continued what he’s doing, feasting Race. Timothy groaned echoed in the room. Timothy gagged but he continued. He didn’t stop. He enjoyed himself more.

Race was trembling when he felt something inside his body like something was about to explode. Race tried his best not to come, Timothy doesn’t deserve his come. He tried hard, but Timothy sucked him faster and bite his manhood.

Race groaned and he exploded.

“Mhm, fuck,” Timothy moaned before he pop out Race’s manhood.

Timothy licked his lips before he stood.

Race wanted to cry. He wanted to kill Timothy himself. But, what he can do? He’s tied up, he’s weak. He have a heart disease. What can he do to save himself?

“I knew that you are much better than my slut girlfriend,” Timothy said, licking Race’s cum away. “Mhm, I can’t get enough from you.”

Race curse Timothy to death. He knew this boy was a weirdo, if he only knew that Timothy will do this to him, he’d know better. He’d avoided this if he’d wary.

Race lifted his head to threw a deadly glares towards Timothy, but before he can do that, he knocked off and his vision blurred, darkened.

“For now, sleep.” He heard before everything went dark again.

CHAPTER 39

Atlas called Bridgette if she knew where Race is, but Bridgette didn’t know where Race.

It’s been an hours since they started searching for Race. They already saw the footage of the CCTV camera in the restaurant where Race and his parents ate, but the problem is they didn’t know who was that man behind.

He’s wearing cap and a mask. He wore a hoodie, so it was more complicated to see who was that man. Also, the CCTV only captured when Race entered the comfort room and the suspect come in after Race and moment later, the suspect leave with Race and they leave through the back door.

Atlas asked-mad-at the guard on the back door why they didn’t saw the suspect entered the building and they said that it was afternoon and they need to swapped for a new guard to standby. Perhaps, the suspect really did planned this all since he knew when the guard swapped for a new guard.

Atlas staring intently on the CCTV camera, he gripped his phone tight it might brake because of the his gripped.

He’s fuming mad. Everything he saw was all dark. It was dark when Race is not around. Someone took his light, his sunshine, his love, his boyfriend, his everything and that man will pay for this. He’ll be tortured, slowly and painfully.

“It is hard to identify who’s this man since he really hide his face well,”

Atlas’s jaw clenched and he cracked his neck. “It’s not. Try another angle, James.” His voice was metallic, there’s no emotion in his. It was took when Atlas received a call that someone took Race.

That bastard will pay.

“Look at this,” James pointed the car that maneuver to the left. “They are heading north.” James added.

“Hack the other CCTV,”

“Oh, damn, dude it is illegal-”

“We’ve done illegal before, James. I killed people and that’s a murder. Do you think I care if it is illegal to hack someone’s system to see who’s that fucking bastard that soon to be dead who fucking stole my boyfriend away from me?” Atlas snapped.

“Here I am, baby.” James worked his finger. Atlas didn’t understand what James was doing, but he trust his friends.

“Found his car,” someone spoke from Atlas’s earpiece, James also heard it since he have an earpiece also.

“Where?” Atlas snatched his car’s key.

“I’ll send the location. Come here faster,” and Sebastian was gone from the background.

Before Atlas leave, James exclaimed.

“Oh, baby! Got you fucking bastard!”

Atlas pushed James away and he zoomed the CCTV footage. The car stopped on the parking lot and seconds later the man stepped out from the car. He pushed his mask down when he lit his cigar and that’s it-Atlas stopped the video and he zoomed in. All his anger rising up. His veins in his arms showed as he clenched the mouse of the laptop tightly it might brake into pieces if James didn’t stole it away.

“You know this man?” James asked, working on his laptop for another angle. Seconds later, he showed another angle and this time it was clearer footage and Atlas confirmed who was the man who stole his boyfriend.

“That fucker, I’ll burn him down. I’ll kill and make him feel the hell.” Atlas clenched his jaw and he walked away. James called him, but he didn’t listen.

He dialed Isaiah’s number. “Do you have a lead?” Isaiah asked.

“Already have,” he get in to his car and he drove it fast as he can.

“Good god. Text me where-”

“Let me take care of this, Sir,” he cut him off. “That bastard will pay for this. I won’t let his slipped off my hand.”

Isaiah remain silent on the phone.

“Do everything you want, Atlas just take my son back to me. Safe and sound.” Isaiah’s voice was hard as him, but their also a hint of worried from his voice.

Who wouldn’t be? Someone took his son away while they are having fun.

“You wouldn’t mind if I kill that bastard, Sir?”

A moment of silent before someone spoke. “Make him pay for us. Don’t let that boy escape. I trust you, Atlas.” Said Hades.

“I will.” And the phone died.

“Jesus, Atlas! What are you doing?” James exclaimed from the earpiece.

“To kill that bastard,”

“And do you know where to find that bastard-that-soon-to-be-dead?”

“No.”

James scoffed. “See? You didn’t but you leave! I called you, but you didn’t listen-”

“But you do.” Atlas cuts him off and he stepped on the gas. He drove like a mad man. He’s a monster now. Someone provoke him and he doesn’t like it when someone took what his from him.

“What?!”

“You do know where that bastard. Send the location immediately.” He command.

James groaned and murmured something like ‘I know you can’t live without me’.

“Done,” announced James after he send the location and from Atlas’s gps, the red dot showed.

“Meet you there.” Sebastian also received the location.

“Don’t do anything, Sebastian-”

“I know. The bastard-that-soon-to-be-dead is yours.”

Atlas cracked a grin and his emotion washed away as he stepped on the gas.

“Guys, stay safe. I cannot handle two wounded idiots,” said Rile and sighed.

Atlas cannot wait to destroy Timothy. That bastard. He’ll pay for this. Atlas knew that something was off with that Timothy. He felt something different and danger with that boy and he’s not wrong. That fucking bastard took Race away.

“Be ready fucker, you’ll meet Hades soon.” He stepped on the gas.

* * * 

Race jerked when he felt something wet on his neck. He opened his eyes and to his shocked, he catch Timothy licking his neck.

“Sjskwni-” Race panicked and tried to pushed Timothy away from him by moving constantly.

“Race, behave-”

Race didn’t listen. He moved and moved. The chair was cracking every time he moved. Race shouted but it was muffled. He moved and-

Race heard a static sound in his ear, his head whipped to the other side.

“I said, shut the fuck up! Behave!” Timothy’s voice echoed.

Race looked down to his feet and it was quivering-he remembered he haven’t eaten anything yet since this fucker brought him here.

Race wonder how many days did past since he cannot see the outside. Perhaps, Timothy brought him in an abandoned building. He silently praying that his parents are fine.

Timothy’s slapped hurt him so much, he still can feel the numbness of his cheek. Timothy slapped him hard he thought he’ll deaf.

Timothy gripped his chin and Race directly stared at Timothy’s eyes.

“I’m sorry…” Timothy run his knuckles to Race’s cheek. Race tried to avert his face, but Timothy’s gripped tighten-it hurts. “Just…just listen to me, okay? You won’t be hurt if you just listen to me, Race.” Timothy’s voice soften and it made Race cringed.

He hate his fucker so much. If his glares are deadly, then Timothy might he dead by now.

“I know you are mad at me,” Timothy sighed and pursed his lips. “But, this is your destiny. You’ll mine forever, Race. You are mine now. Your boyfriend?” Race thought that Timothy didn’t realized that his nails dug to his chin.

Race flinched and he tried to avert his chin away, but Timothy won’t let him, his grip tighten more.

“He won’t be able to see you,” Timothy sighed. “I feel sorry for him because he can’t taste you anymore. He’s not coming to save you, baby. You are mine now, I already marked you as mine. No one will going to steal you away from me. If they’ll do that,” Race flinched when Timothy gripped his neck and he held it tightly, making Race hard to breathe. “I’ll kill them. You are mine. Mine. Mine.” Timothy whispered to his ear.

Race cringed everything Timothy did to him. He’ll admit that he felt terrified at what Timothy said earlier.

What if he’s not coming? What if Atlas won’t see him or he will not be able to save him? What happen to him if that will happen? He’ll be forever slave. He’ll suffer forever.

Race shook his head. Atlas will save him, Atlas is coming for him. He’ll save Race. Atlas won’t let Timothy steal him away from Atlas. Race is confidence that Atlas is coming for him.

Race breathe when Timothy turned his back and walked away. Minutes passed and Timothy’s back with a plate of food on his hand.

“You need an energy,” he said and put down the plate to unsealed his mouth.

Race gasped for an air after Timothy removed the tape. It felt like his mouth was sealed for a years.

“Eat,” Race open his mouth to curse Timothy, but the bastard shoved the spoon in his mouth and he gagged.

“Do not talk or I will cut your tongue.”

Race glared at Timothy, but the bastard ignored him and continued shoving the spoon in his mouth.

“Also, do not pray for someone to come to save you. You are not a princess to need someone to be save. No one knows where we are. I only knew this place and no one will find us.” Timothy continue shoving food in his mouth-Race mouth was full and cannot take another spoon of food. He nearly gagged because he cannot chew the food anymore.

“You need to eat because you need the energy later.” Timothy smirked at him and he shoved the water in Race’s mouth.

Race vomit all the food he ate and Timothy swore. “Fuck!” Timothy stood and he removed his shirt. “I didn’t told you to vomit the food! I bought this and it’s expensive!” He curse something under his breathe before he threw a death glare at Race.

Due to Race’s anger, he cannot stop himself, Race spit on Timothy’s face and said. “Fuck you!”

Timothy’s eyes went metallic, it was bloodshot and deadly. Race felt the adrenaline rush down to his spine. He shouldn’t have provoke Timothy.

“I told you to behave, yet you didn’t listen to me,” Timothy put a tape on his mouth and slapped him hard as fuck he heard another static sound passed inside his ear. “I should teach you a lesson for you to learn.”

Race heart thumped so hard and hard, his breathe was shallow and faster. He shook his head when Timothy remove his pants and his brief-he’s now naked in front of Race.

Race didn’t know what will Timothy do to him, but he only know that he won’t gonna like what happen next. Looking at Timothy, he’ll do something crazy to punish him.

Race squealed when Timothy remove his pants and his brief. He tried to move and kicked, but nothing happened just like the other day. He felt hopeless and weak every time Timothy did this to him. It makes him weak. He cannot do anything from Timothy. He cannot save himself from this monster. He’s weak.

The next thing happened shocked him.

Timothy sit on his lap and put his manhood in Timothy’s asshole. Race’s eyes widen and at the back of his eyes becomes wet, he shook his head so his tears won’t slipped away. He shouldn’t cry because of this crazy bastard. He should’ve fight for his life, he cannot let his crazy do something to him. But, how? How can he save himself when he’s weak? He can’t even move. Can’t shove Timothy away from him.

Race shut his eyes tightly not because he love what Timothy did to him, but to stopped himself from breaking down.

Timothy started to move up and down. Timothy moaned and he leaned to bite Race’s neck. Moments later, Timothy moved faster. Race’s manhood in and out in Timothy’s asshole.

He’s helpless. Race’s helpless. He felt weak. He cannot fight for himself. Someone humiliated him and raped him. He’s dirty.

“Fuck, fuck!” Timothy groaned and grinned against Race’s manhood and he moved faster.

Race was trembling, he always reminded himself not to give this crazy bastard the satisfaction. His heart pulsate every minute, his breathe quivered and shallows, faster and not normal.

He’s terrified what will happen in this case. If his heart palpitate, he don’t know what happen next-he might die here.

His heart is not strong just like everyone.

“Fuck, you’re so hard, baby,” Timothy grinned faster and deeper. His hands fell on Race’s shoulder and he gripped tightening.

I don’t want to be here. I hate this. I hate myself. Race kept on telling himself.

He hate himself for not fighting for his life. He hate himself for being weak. He hate himself because he cannot do anything to save himself from this bastard. He hate himself more than people hate him. Nobodies known how he hate himself right now. He hate himself because he’s now dirty little whore. He hate himself to let this bastard touch him. He’s dirty. Someone already marked him and he doesn’t like it. He hate himself every minute passed. He hate that he let this crazy fucking bastard touch him.

His heart throbbed when Atlas comes to his mind. Atlas will hate him for sure. Atlas will hate him forever and Atlas will forever look at him with disgust because he’s not the Race he know before. Someone touch him. Someone rape him. He’s dirty. Timothy’s dirty hands was all over his body, do you think Atlas will still accept him? No. Nobody will accept a person who’s now dirty like a mud.

Race slowly losing his hope, he gave up. Tears slowly pouring his eyes. Thinking of Atlas makes him sad and his heart shuttered into pieces. As Timothy continues moving up and down, Race didn’t fight. He let Timothy do whatever he want to his body. His head falls as his tears continue pouring down to his cheek.

How stupid I am to cry. I am a

fucking

man and real man do not cry.

“I am tight, right? My ass was tight, but I finally loosen up because of your big manhood. It’s fucking amazing to feel you inside me, Race.” Timothy continued moving up and down and planted a kiss on his neck.

Why fight for his life when he’s already felt dirty? What’s the reason of fighting?

“I’m coming,” Timothy groaned and he moved faster.

Race’e heart palpitate. He felt his heart bearing irregularly, his body is burning not because of pleasure he felt of what Timothy did to him. Sweat rolled down his forehead. He cannot breathe properly, he think someone stole his air away from him. He think that someone choke him to death, no air comes in to his lungs.

Race panicked. He knew this feeling and this is not a good thing. His heart is not in a good condition. He knew what happen next. He knew this feeling and he doesn’t like it. Race started to feel terrified for his life. He started to feel the end of his life.

No. No. Someone save me. Air. Air. I need air. I can’t breathe.

Timothy groaned and moaned. “I’m coming…” He pushed faster. Up and down. In and out. His moan echoed around the place. “I’m…fuck…I’m com-”

Timothy fell on the floor, blood flooded on the ground. Blood and more blood.

Race eyes was glued to Timothy’s body on the floor. His eyes are open and his blood kept on pouring.

Blood. Blood.

Race remembered what happened. It just a second and it happened faster. He’s not wrong, he heard a gunshot. Someone shot Timothy.

Timothy is dead. He’s dead. He’s dead.

Race felt relieved and petrified. When he was about to looked up someone crash him with a tight hug.

“I’m so sorry,” with that voice, Race cried. “I’m so sorry. I’m so sorry. I am late, baby. I’m so sorry.” Atlas kept on saying while he’s hugging Race’s tightly he doesn’t want to go. He’s hugging Race like he’s afraid that Race might disappear from his sight.

When Atlas looked to look Race on the eyes. Race smiled even though his heart is not beating regularly. His heart quiver and he felt a pang inside.

“Thank you for coming for me.”

Atlas’s tears streamed down on his face and he buried his face on Race’s shoulder.

“You’re safe …” Atlas whispered.

Safe.

Race nodded and he fight not to closed his eyes. His fighting for his life now. He should not sleep. He’s afraid that he will not be able to open his eyes again. He cannot sleep. He’s afraid that he will not be able to see Atlas again. He should not give up, his parents are waiting for him on their house.

Race felt that someone carried him. He doesn’t felt that he’s tied up on a chair, but carried like he’s a glass, he carried with gentle and tenderness. Free. That was he felt. Free and safe.

Race felt tired. He’s exhausted. He cannot move his body anymore. He’s body is weak, his heart is weak.

When Race was about to close his eyes when someone shouted-he recognized Atlas.

“ Don’t

fucking

leave me, Race. Stay!

Fucking

stay with me! “

CHAPTER 40

Blood drips on Atlas’s hands as he punched Timothy again on the face. Punched. Punched. Punched. He do it repeatedly. His eyes are full of vengeance, dark and he’s barbaric. Light died in his eyes, there’s no mercy on it as he continued breaking Timothy’s face.

It didn’t leave Atlas’s mind the memory of what he witnessed earlier. Timothy’s moving up and down on Race. Timothy raping Race. Race’s eyes full of sadness and hurt and hope died in his eyes. Race’s tied up on a chair and he’s helpless while Timothy was enjoying himself and there’s Race dying.

Fuck that. Punched doesn’t enough for him. He should-

“Let’s go, Atlas,” Sebastian interrupted him. “Let’s burry him-”

“I’m not done yet.” There’s no emotion left in his voice.

“Atlas, he’s dead. You cannot hurt what is dead-”

“It’s not enough, you know?” Atlas said, tracing the bullet hole on Atlas’s forehead down to his chest, to his belly, to his abdomen and down to Timothy’s manhood. Timothy’s manhood cut off when Atlas shot it multiple times. He doesn’t like what he witnessed, Atlas felt like he’s trembling with anger. He cannot understood himself, he wanted to break anything he saw.

“He raped Race. Race is broken because of this fucking bastard. He can’t collect Race’s pieces since it’s already shattered.” Atlas stood up, he’s not blinking as he stared down at Timothy’s dead body. “I don’t know what to do, Sebastian. I am too late, my Race is already broken and I cannot do anything so he’ll come back to his old self.” Atlas turned to face Sebastian and he stared like he didn’t know who’s standing in front of him. It felt like he cannot see clearly because he was flooded with so much emotion right now.

Atlas doesn’t know what to think anymore. His mind was full of so much thoughts. He doesn’t know what to do first, he felt like he’s useless because he cannot do anything.

Atlas also blamed himself for what happened at Race. He kept on blaming himself. If he just arrived earlier, he’ll be able to save Race before that motherfucking bastard did something horrible at Race. If he just arrived on time perhaps this will not happened.

“I don’t want to lose him,” he whispered. “I am lost without him.” He continued. “What should I do now? He’s in the hospital, battling for his life and I should be there to fight with him, but I am here, terrified and weak.”

Atlas for the first time felt like his heart shattered into pieces. He wanted to cry, but he stop himself.

“Then go there, stay beside him-”

“I can’t do that-”

“Why the fuck is that-”

“-because I cannot face, Race! It will break my heart seeing him in that condition! I feel the guilt whenever I see him! I am fucking at fault! If I arrived on time perhaps this will not happened, yet I am too slow! My heart can’t take to be there!” Atlas exclaimed and he shouted, kicked the chair and he let his anger to embraced him.

He shot his gun everywhere while he shouted. Sebastian let him do that to release the tension and the anger that Atlas felt today. Perhaps it is the way to let his emotions out.

“You did everything, you are not at fault,” Sebastian said after a minutes.

Atlas shook his head and wiped his tears with his shirt. “No. No. This is my fault. I knew that Timothy was really a bad thing and I have this feeling that something will happened and I have gut that Timothy will do something, but I didn’t do anything to stop this. I-I…If I followed my feelings and my instinct perhaps I’ll be able to prevent this to happen.” Atlas trembled. “If…If I were just wary this will not gonna happened.”

“Fuck that bullshit, Atlas,” Sebastian walked toward him. Atlas looked up, but his attention brought down to Sebastian’s shoulder-it was bleeding.

“I shot you.” Said Atlas with eyes wide.

“Don’t care,” Sebastian said and dropped his hands on Atlas’s shoulder. “I don’t care what you think. I don’t care if you blame yourself, I just want you to stay beside Race. That boy needs you there. You should be tough for Race.”

Atlas stared and said nothing. Sebastian continued. “You should be there when Race will open his eyes. He’s fighting for his own life right now,”

Atlas’s heart throbbed and it is hurt.

Fuck that.

He didn’t know that Race have a heart disease! Race kept this from him and it irritated him. Atlas was clueless what happened to Race earlier. He’s burning hot and his breathe was unsteady, too shallowed and faster than the normal breathe of a person. Atlas panicked and he cannot move from where he was glued. Thankfully, Sebastian dragged him out from him reverie and they brought Race to the nearest hospital and that’s when Race knew that Race had a palpitation and his heart is weak.

Atlas thought he was going to be crazy. He’s spacing out sometimes and he cannot focus, he kept on walking back and forth. His mind was full of angry and guilt.

When Race’s parents arrived, they break the news to him that Race have heart disease and sometimes he experience palpitation and need to bring to the hospital.

Atlas doesn’t know who he should hate: himself because he cannot do anything to ease Race’s pain, and he was to late when he arrived to save Race, and he felt hopeless.; or Race because he didn’t tell him his condition. If Race tells him sooner perhaps he won’t panicked.; or he should hate Race’s parents because they didn’t tell him the truth, they kept this all from him and it makes him mad more.; and the last person he hates is Timothy. This will not be happened if he didn’t started this. If he didn’t kidnapped Race, this won’t be happening right now.

“You need to know his explanation right?” Asked Sebastian-Atlas didn’t realized that he already wrapped up his wound.

“I’ll let him rest first before I ask for an explanation,” he replied and let himself fell on the ground.

“What are you going to do now?” Asked Sebastian again.

Atlas looked at Timothy’s dead body and said, “bury this motherfucker.”

---

It’s been five days since that incident happened. Yesterday, Race finally opened his eyes. The first person he saw was his father wearing its worried and red eyes-perhaps Isaiah’s been crying because his eyes are tired and sore.

Isaiah cried in front of him while hugging Race, Isaiah kept on saying sorry. He also blamed himself for what happened, that’s not it. Hades who was also guilty for what happened.

Nonetheless, Race told them that it’s not their fault that he was kidnapped by a psycho. Race on the other hand, blamed himself more for bot being wary. If he already told about this to hi parents perhaps they all prevented this. If he didn’t kept what he noticed at Timothy’s weird actions those past few weeks perhaps this will not going to happened. If he told Atlas about this earlier-if he just trust Atlas about his gut to Timothy, perhaps Atlas will do something to make Timothy stop and this, what happened to him will never gonna happened in the first place.

Race didn’t told his parents that he blamed himself because it will just added to their worried, and Race won’t let that happened.

Speaking of Atlas, he never saw that man since he opened his eyes. He never asked his parents about Atlas because he’s waiting for Atlas to showed up. Perhaps, Atlas was busy and he cannot visit him, whatever it is he’ll wait Atlas to visit him.

Time to time, Race noticed that his father-Isaiah always glanced at him like he’s waiting for him to ask a question, yet Race chose not to ask anything.

Everything happened still fresh and every time he closed his eyes he always saw Timothy’s face-laughing at him and licking his body. Humiliating him and hurting him.

Race can’t sleep every night, nightmare always visited him in his dreams. Always taunting him until he can’t sleep anymore-petrified that Timothy will show up again in his dream.

Race was paranoid too, whenever the door cracked opened he’s trembling so bad. His eyes can’t focus, also his mind. He’s tired of this. He badly want to cry, but he cannot show any fear in front of his parents.

Isaiah and Hades didn’t know that every night he have a nightmare and it end up he couldn’t sleep anymore. Even though he’s wide awake, that incident comes into his mind and shattered his soul into pieces.

Race can still feel Timothy’s tongue on his neck and Timothy’s mouth and ass on his manhood and every time that crossed to his mind, he breaks into pieces and he cried silently praying that this nightmares will go away-but that’s not easy though. It hard as he think.

One week passed and that nightmares won’t go away. Always taunting him, haunting his dreams until he cannot take it anymore. Sometimes, he woke up in the middle of the night crying and he kept on saying ‘help’ even though no ones heard his silent protest.

Atlas still didn’t visited him in the hospital, Race was worried. What if his thought was right that Atlas was disgusted because he’s dirty. What Atlas actually left him because someone already took him? What if Atlas will looked at him with disgusted eyes? What if Atlas won’t talk to him again?

That was added to his worried.

Tonight, Race jerked and he suddenly sat up on his bed. He’s panting so hard, his breathe was shallowed, but he’s not experiencing palpitation.

Timothy chased him in his dream again. It’s a nightmare actually. Timothy was laughing and he dreamt of Timothy moving up and down on his manhood and him-shouting for a help, but no one ever heard him.

Race inhale a sharp breathe as he wiped the tears that escaped in his eyes.

Damnit. His parents worried at him, even though they will not going to vocalize it, nonetheless, Race can read their actions and their eyes. Isaiah kept on watching him-his every move and Isaiah’s eyes full of worried and Race knew that his father wanted to ask something to him, but chose not to.

On the other hand, Hades kept on encouraging him to open up with him if he’s ready-and he’s not. He’s not ready, he’s terrified that his nightmares won’t go away.

Damn it, Atlas! Where the fuck are you?!

Race buried his face on his palm as he inhale deeply.

His parents also told him that Atlas was the one who saved him from that psycho, and Atlas brought him in the hospital, but other than that his parent didn’t told him where Atlas is, or did Atlas visited him even once?

Race thought that Atlas was just guilty that’s why he can’t face him; or Atlas was terrified to face him yet.

Whatever the reason it is, Race hoped that Atlas didn’t chose to leave him.

Race didn’t slept that night since his nightmares comes back whenever he closed his eyes.

In the morning, Race slept when his father sat in his bed. That way, he slept without nightmares or perhaps he was just tired so he fell asleep.

When Race opened his eyes, his Daddy Isaiah was preparing for a food. His Papa Hades was there too, yet there’s one person that was missing. Race haven’t saw him since the day he opened his eyes.

Is he coming or not? Did he left or he finally forgot about me?

The last time Race saw Atlas when Atlas saved him from Timothy. Yes, he remembered that. He remembered everything. Atlas cried in front of him as Atlas hugged him tight. Race was sure that Atlas still love him even though he’s already dirty and being marked by a psycho.

“You’re not going to ask about him?” Hades asked and Isaiah elbowed him.

“Dad, it is okay,” he smiled and he looked at his Papa Hades. “He’ll come, Papa. I know that.” He answered.

Isaiah sighed and walked towards him. “The doctor said that you can go out anytime by now,”

“Oh,”

“Eat so you can regain your energy. Don’t think about what happened, son. We can overcome this.” Isaiah hugged him tightly, Hades joined too.

“Did he visited while I’m asleep?” Asked Race.

Isaiah hesitated, but Hades shook his head. “We never heard from him after he brought you here.”

His shoulder fell at what he heard. He doesn’t know what to think anymore. All his hopes died because of what he heard just now.

Atlas didn’t come to see him. He never appeared.

“But that boy was worried sick, son,” Isaiah added. “Maybe, he’s not yet ready to see you in this kind of situation because he can’t take it. A man can be weak sometimes, son.”

“If he really cares, he’ll come.” Race ended the conversation by changing the topic. He can’t talked about Atlas without hurting himself.

Race’s parents packed his things while he walked to the bathroom to take bath. Race opened the shower as he let the water streamed down his body, his tears also streamed down on his face.

His punched his fist to the wall as the incident replayed to his mind again and again. The tortured and the helplessness he felt that time. He never felt helpless in his entire life, yet when that incident happened, he felt the sun would never shine again for him.

His life was dark as the night-no light from the moon, no twinkling star above the sky.

Race rest his forehead on the wall as he broke into sobs-his shoulder quivered.

Fuck him. Fuck his life. Why does it need to happen to him?

Scrubbed. Scrubbed. Scrubbed.

He scrubbed so hard his body turned red as he dug the scrub to his body. He felt so dirty. More dirty than a mud. He scrubbed his body he bruised his body without noticing it-he doesn’t felt any pain at all.

Scrubbed. Scrubbed.

Timothy’s tongue on his neck. Race flinched at the thought and he scrubbed harder this time-skin so red it might bleed if he’ll continued.

Timothy’s moving up and down on his manhood, licking and sucking him.

Race sobbed as he scrubbed his thigh, his tears doesn’t stopped streaming down. They are like water falling from the shower-it fells freely.

He’d done scrubbing, yet he felt dirty it’s like he never showered. All of him he thought was dirty.

He fell on his knees and Race cried silently.

  * * *

Atlas looked up from the door of the bathroom as it cracked opened and Race stepped out in the bathroom.

Atlas’s gazed down Race’s body and there he saw the fresh bruises and red on Race’s body.

Atlas felt the pang of his heart, it shattered into pieces as he watched his beloved man walked slowly-not seeing anything. Exist but not alive. Breathing but dead.

He stood slowly and he waited Race to reached him. Race didn’t noticed Atlas was there, he was not on his mind. Atlas slowly grabbed Race and he hugged his man tightly. Atlas buried his face between Race’s neck and shoulder blade. And he cried so hard.

When he felt Race slowly wrapped his arms around him, Atlas’s hugged tightening like he didn’t want to let go. Like any hour someone will take Race away from him.

“I-I’m so sorry. Forgive me…” Was the first sentence he’d said. Race didn’t talked he continued. “I-I’m sorry, I never there on your side when you are fighting with your own demons. I am so sorry for leaving you. I am so sorry for being weak.” His voice broke as he talked.

Race hugged tightening around him. “But you are here with me. You never leave me, Atlas.”

Atlas shook his head like a kid. “I left-”

“Yet you come back.” Race cut him off.

Atlas shut his eyes tightly. “I-I’m so sorry. I-I didn’t save you from that psycho bastard. I’m so sorry if I was too late. I’m so sorry for not protecting you,” his voice cracked, hurting as Atlas remembered what happened to his man.

“You saved me-”

“I failed to protect you!” Exclaimed Atlas and he looked directly at Race’s eyes. “I promised to protect you. I promised to myself to protect you all my life, yet I failed…I broke my promised. I am terrible, I am worst. I am not better-”

“Hush, Atlas,” Race grabbed him to hugged. “Quit saying you failed ’cause you never failed. We cannot control or manipulate everything.”

Atlas shook his head repeatedly and he didn’t talked for a moment. He cried and cried like a baby.

Moment passed he said, “how can I replace that memory? How can I replace everything? I don’t know what to do anymore, Race. I am so fucking worthless.” He sobbed. “I’m fucking worthless! How can I help you to fucking forget what happened? I don’t know what to do because every time that incident will come into my mind I am lost! I think I am not a fucking human anymore. I am worthless, I am fucking worse and fucking helpless. I’m so sorry…” Atlas fell onto his knees and he let his tears streamed down his face.

Race fell on his knees too, hugged Atlas, yet he didn’t said anything. He just hugged Atlas and they both cried.

How can he acted like a helpless man in front of his man? He should be tough! He should tell himself to be tough for Race. He shouldn’t cried. He shouldn’t felt weak and helpless. He should stand and to be brave because Race need him. Race need him to be his side. Race need him the most in this moment. Race need him.

Race need me. My man need me. I should be tough for my man. I should be brave for my man. I should stay by his side. He need me the most.

Atlas looked onto Race’s eyes as he whispered. “I wouldn’t leave you again. I’ll stay by your side and I’ll be with you when you fight your own demons. I love you, Race.”

CHAPTER 41

“You didn’t tell me about your condition,” finally, Atlas had a confidence to ask Race about this.

It’s been a days since he can’t think clearly and he nearly went crazy because his boyfriend have a heart disease, yet he didn’t know about it. He’s totally clueless and he felt like a naïve.

Race sat on his bed, they arrived at Race house earlier and Race’s parents let them talk in private. It’s been an hour since they arrived, and those hour Atlas was debating with himself to ask Race or not about his condition. He really wanted to know. He deserve to know.

“I deserve to know about it, am I?” He asked, voice soft.

Race swallowed hard as he clutched his chest and said. “My mother had a heart disease,” he paused for a seconds. “I told you that my mother died…” Race sighed. “She died because she had a heart disease. My father said, my mother didn’t made it. My mother died when she gave birth of me, luckily my mother died when I finally came into this world.”

Atlas squeezed his eyes. “That day when you suddenly disappeared without you telling me the reason,”

“Oh, perhaps that time was I hated you-”

“You have so many chances to tell me about your condition, yet you let me felt like I am a naïve.” Atlas cut Race’s off. He didn’t want to, but he’s disparately need to know Race’s explanation.

Race looked at him directly in his eyes. “I am afraid that you’ll not going to see me like you use to be-”

“What the fuck are you talking about, Race?” Atlas snapped. “You wronged me! Why did you decide for myself?”

“There were instances that I badly want to tell you about my condition, yet I am weak to do it. I always said to myself that you’re going to treat me like I am a fragile and like a glass that need to look after-afraid of I am going to crash into pieces.” Atlas was about to say something, but Race cut him off. “You have so many ambitions. One of it is to see the world, you like adventure and I thought that if you’ll know my condition you’ll limit all your actions. I know you care for me, so I know that you won’t do some adventures anymore because you are worried about my condition. You won’t be able to see the world because I am a fragile person that need to be look for. I cannot do anything I want because of my condition. My action was limited if I like to live longer.”

Atlas’s heart shattered into pieces as he heard Race. Yes, he was angry-fuming mad at Race because he kept this from him, yet what can he do? He love his man so much. He cannot stay angry for so long.

“At least you tell me sooner,” Atlas whispered. “I will not treat you like a fragile, Race, you know that. I know that you are strong. Yes, perhaps you’re right in the part of I will conscious when it comes to, and probably I will limit my actions and the adventures that I will do.” He looked at Race’s eyes. “But, at least you let me know what happened to you. I am not a kid, Race. I am not naïve, please, do not decide what I will do for you. Do not decide for me, Race. Please, do not keep secrets from me, I’ll decide for myself what should I act when I know your secrets.” Atlas pleaded.

Funny, that he pleaded to Race not to keep a secrets from him again, yet he also have a skeleton in his closet. Very ironic.

“I don’t want you to worried-”

“Fuck that shit, Race,” Atlas was irritated, he take a deep breathe and he mussed his hair. “For the love of God, I love you so much and you are so important to me. You are the man that I love, of course I will be worried for you!”

He didn’t mean to snapped at Race, he’s trying his best not to shout. Race was still coping from the incident that happened days ago. He should’ve think what he’ll say. He should pick his words not to trigger Race’s trauma.

“I’m sorry for snapping at you—”

“—I understand you,” Race sighed and laid on his bed, staring at the ceiling. “I will act like that too if I know some of your secrets. Truth really hurts, yet it is what we needed.”

Atlas’s eyes widen and he flinched. He averted his eyes as he swallowed hard. Race doesn’t know his secrets, he have so many skeleton in his closet and he was terrified to show them all to Race because of the thought of Race might leave him after he’ll know all of his secrets.

“It’s not just me who have a secrets, am I?” Asked Race without looking at his way. “I’m certain that all of us have a secrets,” Atlas jerked when Race suddenly looked at him. “You have secrets right?”

Atlas gulped and said, “I have,” he paused. “I’m afraid you cannot count them because they are too many.”

Race’s mussed his hair and looked at the ceiling again. “I thought it was my end,” he started. Atlas knew what he was talking about, he didn’t cut off Race. Atlas let Race talked if this the way to let those bad memory out from his system. “I never felt so helpless in my entire life. I never thought that I’d be raped by a boy.”

Psycho. Bastard. Fucking crazy bastard. Atlas whispered, gritting his teeth as he remembered Timothy.

Race continued. “He humiliated me. He raped me. He made me feel like a dirty person in the world. He made me hate myself more than anyone hate me. He made me felt hopeless and weak. I never thought that I am still alive today when I almost give up.”

Atlas was hurting, his heart was bleeding for Race. He thought that someone hit him a baseball bat in his heart.

He’s hurt for this man.

“I cried and started to panicked when I felt my heart palpitated. I knew that feeling-hopeless and your life was in danger, any minutes I will die. I cried when he move above me. I never like it, I would never like it.” Race shook his head repeatedly and tears slipped from his eyes.

Atlas touched Race’s face, yet he didn’t talked like he was just telling Race that he’s here beside him and he’d never leave him. Atlas let Race talked.

“I cried while I silently prayed for someone to come for me-to help me escape from that nightmare. I prayed. Silently pleaded him to stop. Silently calling you to save me. I felt so dirty. My body, my soul are dirty. It would never back from the old self. Even I wash myself everyday, even if I bath with stain remover, I would never be clean.”

No. You’re wrong. You are not dirty for me. You are my Race. Atlas said to his mind as he stroked Race’s hair.

“You should leave. You shouldn’t be here. You shouldn’t look at me like you still love me. I wonder why are you still here when my body was already marked by someone. I wonder why did you stay by me even though someone already took me. You should disgust me. You should leave me because I cannot give my body to you. I am dirty.”

Fuck that. Atlas thought that someone perhaps stripped his heart into two after he heard Race said it.

“You wronged me again,” Atlas whispered, buried his head on Race’s chest-listening to his heartbeat. “I am not a boy, I am your man, Race. I never leave you. Never. I love you so much. Don’t think about I’m leaving you behind because of what happened to you, it will never happen. Do not think that you are dirty to me, you are still the Race that I love. Nothing change even thought something terrible happened.”

That’s it. Beat your heart for me. Only for me. Please, be strong for me-for you. Beat your heart like you still want me too. Beat your heart like you couldn’t leave without me too.

“I cannot give my body to you-”

“I am not after your body, Race.” Atlas cut him off-felt irritated. “I courted you because I fell for you-your heart, your soul, all of you-not your body.”

Without looking at Race, Atlas felt Race was crying again. His breathe shallowed, but his heartbeat was normal.

“I don’t deserve you-”

“-we deserve each other.” He cut Race’s off again. “It’s not coincidence that I met you. It’s our souls found each other.” He added.

Sound cringed, yet he really meant what he’d said.

“Thank you for staying with me,” Race baritone voice whispered on his ear.

Atlas cracked a smile. “You’re welcome.”

Race sighed with relieved. “I thought you are going to leave after what happened to me. I’m so afraid that when I open my eyes, you’ll never coming back to me.”

“Not gonna happen,” Atlas looked up. “For someone who’s deeply in love with you, I’ll never leave you.”

Race smiled sweetly at him, eyes full of fresh tears. “Thank you for coming to my life-”

“Thank you because you made me gay.”

Race laughed and it made Atlas smiled to see Race smiled again.

---

Trauma is not easy. Trauma make you suffer every minute and everyday.

Nightmares didn’t leave Race alone. It’s always haunting him, always chasing him. Everyday, he felt someone staring at him even though they never did something to him or they never looked at him like Timothy looked at him, and yet he aquiver and he panicked.

He can’t understand himself why it was happening to him. These people didn’t do something to him, and yet he panicked and can’t concentrate.

It happened also in one of his subject, when he’s in a deep thought when the professor called him and suddenly he quivered for no reason and he cannot stay still. He looked at everyone with eyes wide open, trying to find those pair of eyes, staring at him with metallic eyes and hungry-and he remembered that psycho was gone.

Someone called him and he panicked.

He caught someone staring at him and his whole body quivered.

When someone tried to approached him, he run.

Race didn’t know himself anymore. He hate it when he acted like this without him controlling his body. He didn’t know why he acted like this. Always scared and paranoid.

Timothy’s already gone, no one will going to kidnapped him. No one will going to rape him. No one will dare to humiliate him. No one will dare to hurt him. Atlas promised him to protect him. Atlas’s here, his man is here. Protecting him and he’s on his side.

He felt like he’s running from the world. He’s running from the people because he thought that all of them will going to hurt him, torture him, rape him, humiliate him. He’s also been conscious to himself, always thinking what will people think about him. It’s not like people knew what happened to him because he acted this way. It’s just his parents, Atlas, Bridgette and Atlas’s friends who knew about the incident.

Yet, Race was conscious. Whenever people stared at him for a long time, he always thought that people was thinking that he’s dirty. He always thought that people are judging him, laughing at him for what happened to him. He didn’t know, but he always felt like people are disgusted whenever they stared at Race.

It made Race’s hurt and he wanted to cry because of what he felt. It’s not the people who are wrong, it’s him who are acting weird everyday.

He doesn’t like this at all, he thought that he’ll end up crazy if this will getting bad.

Months later, there are thing that never change. One of it was Race was still traumatize about the incident happened months ago. Nightmares always visited him in his dreams every night-haunting and chasing him.

“Do you want to postpone our trip?”

It’s already vacation, the school year had ended a weeks ago. Months ago, they happily and enthusiastically planned their vacation together in the other country. They already settled where countries they’ll visit, what food they’ll eat, what tourist spot they’ll visit. Yet, those plans shattered into pieces when that incident happened.

“I’m sorry-”

“It’s fine,” Atlas smiled and he put down his notes. “You is the important.”

“I can’t take to socialize right now,” Race said. “Nothing change, Atlas. I am still terrified to people. I always thinking that they’ll do something horrible to me. I always thinking that they’ll gonna hurt me.”

Atlas didn’t said anything but hugged him tight. “It’s not that easy to cope up everything. If you need years to heal, then I’ll be with you for the next decade.”

“Do you think I come back to mY old self?” Asked Race, eyes worried.

“I loved the old one, and I fell deeply to the new one. What ever version you have, I always still love you, Race.”

God, this man never fail to make him feel love. Atlas never fail him to smile and to make his heart beat faster.

Atlas stood up, his hands is on his waist. “So, what are we going to do now?”

“Bridgette said she’s coming,” said Race.

“Mhmm, that girl is hiding something from us.”

“Can you smell or see that someone is keeping a secret?”

Atlas pouted and replied, “no. I just guess it.”

Race rolled his eyes and looked away.

And I feel you that you have something you kept from me for a long time.

“Anyway,” Atlas walked towards him and leaned in. “Our monthsary is near.” Atlas winked. “I am planning something romantic for us, so you should at least try to be sweeter?”

“We should go down stair, perhaps Bridgette is already there,” Race grinned when he saw Atlas pouted and walked beside him.

“It’s not a hard thing to do, you know? It’s very easy.” Atlas still bluffing. “If you don’t know how to be sweet, well I can teach you. Aside that I am an academic achiever and received numerous awards, I am a good teacher too.” Race almost rolled his eyes. He thought that Atlas was done with his favorite line ‘I am an academic achiever’.

Atlas was still bluffing when Bridgette called his name, “I thought you didn’t have a plan on coming down here.” Bridgette smiled and hugged him and then she looked at Atlas. “Hey, there! Why are you pouting?”

Race rolled his eyes, “he’s bluffing over something. He wanted me to be sweet towards him, when I am not a sweet lover-”

“Why I am so clingy to you? I am sweet towards you, of course you can be sweet lover like me too!”

Sometimes, Atlas acted like a kid, nevertheless Race loves it. Atlas is sooo cute, he wanted to kiss him in front of everyone.

“Aw, it that because you are sooo in love with my best friend that’s why you are so clingy and sweet when it comes it him?” Bridgette waggle her brow and clung onto Race arms.

Atlas squinted his eyes to Race and said, “I know that Race is also deeply in love with me. Sometimes, he shook me by kissing me so randomly-” Race threw the pillow at Atlas to make him stop.

“Hey! Why are you telling her that? It should be remain in the two of us,” Race tsked and scoffed.

Atlas immediately slapped his palm on his mouth-he looked shock, but Race knew that Atlas was just acting out.

“Oh, sorry, babe. That moment should stay between us. Aw, I’m sorry, my mouth slipped,” Atlas looked at Bridgette and he bowed his head a little. “My apologies, please refrain from spreading that information to everyone. My babe is timid to admit to everyone that he’s really into me.”

Bridgette laughed so hard and Race couldn’t take it but rolled his eyes and threw another couch pillow at Atlas who also smirking at him and Atlas winked-mouthed ‘I love you’.

Atlas clapped his palm together after a moment. “I’ll leave you two here, I’ll have something to do today.” Atlas leaned in to plant a kiss on Race’s forehead down to his nose and next to Race’s lips. “Sir Isaiah messaged me that he’ll be home later. I need to hurry. See you later, babe. I’ll text you every minute.”

Race didn’t talked, he just watched Atlas. “Bridge, take care of Race-”

“I’m not a kid.” Race retorted.

“You’re important to me, Race. Bye! I’ll gotta go!” Atlas waved and bid goodbye to them before he disappeared in Race’s sight.

Bridgette poked him on his tummy. “You two are really in love with each other. You looked so cute together!”

Yet Race was not paying attention at Bridgette, but his mind was full of image of Atlas-his mind full of questions and worried grow to his system.

Race’s worried about Atlas. He’s been watching Atlas and he noticed that Atlas was acting strange lately. Like now, he left and didn’t tell him the reason. Atlas always said that he have a very important to do and he need to hurry.

It didn’t happened once, yet several times. Race wonder where did really Atlas go.

CHAPTER 42

“The court is a mess,” Sebastian commented after he sat on the chair. “Now, the court have a biggest enemy and that is the founder of the organization.”

“This is really a mess,” James shook his head while he didn’t left his eyes on his laptop. “Your parents got kicked out from the court-”

“They didn’t do something-”

“You’re busy taking care of Race that’s why you didn’t know what happened these past few days.” Rile cut him off. “There are rumors that your parents stole millions from the organization-”

“Rumors, that’s not true-”

“-you asked us to investigate this dilemma after you quit from your job and we found out that the court stole the money that is from the Underground.”

Atlas brow furrowed. “I didn’t understand,”

Sebastian sighed. “In a simple word, the court stole a millions and your parents-they run and hide. They are nowhere to be found.”

“Why would they stole a millions when we have a lot of underground transactions from other country, specially Russia is our biggest buyer and solid partner.”

“Indeed,” Sebastian sighed. “But after you left, your mother started to stole money. They didn’t send it to the Underground. They stole it. The Underground already knew that the painting we retrieved is just an imitation and it is fake. The founders and the councils from the Underground was mad at us, to our court, specially to your mother and father.”

Fucking fuck. Atlas massaged his temple when he felt it throbbed when he heard this information.

It happened days ago when a news comes to him that his parents is nowhere to be found. He often went to his house to checked if his parents already there, but nothing. He didn’t saw his parent, also his siblings. They all left.

Atlas asked James to locate where his family is, but he cannot locate where they are. It’s hard to locate his parents and Atlas thought that they really planned this all.

The other day the councils from the court left. They quit and they hide because according to them, the Underground won’t let this slipped, they will do something.

Coward. They are coward.

There’s no one left in the court-only Sebastian and James only, since Rile is just his personal doctor. He’s not part of the court but he often join to a meeting.

And now, another news broke. His parents stole a millions from the Underground and they happened to knew that the painting they retrieved was just a fake one.

“Let’s prepare for the coming war,” Rile whispered. “It happened so many times that your parents stole money from the Underground. Now, the Underground already knew about this-we all doomed.”

“They can declare a war against us,” Sebastian added.

“We all dead. All courts against us. Dead.” James continued.

Atlas remained silent. He can’t understand why his parents need to stole something that big from a biggest and worst enemy. Even though Atlas didn’t like his parents so much, still he’s worried about their whereabouts. They shouldn’t left and should face the consequences, but they run and hide for their lives.

Atlas didn’t believed that his parents stole millions of money, but now that his parents was nowhere to be found, he didn’t know but it’s inevitable that his parents really did something.

“Sebastian, I need you to find an alliance, in case the Underground will declare a war-”

“Von, he’s going to help-”

Atlas snapped his head at Sebastian. “Von?! You forgot that he stole the real painting and he’s the one who changed it?!”

“Of course,” Sebastian said without blinking. “How can I forget that? My concern is just, the upcoming war. As you said, we need alliance and Von wanted to help.”

Atlas stared at Sebastian for a moment, jaw clenching and metallic bloodshot eyes. “Make sure he won’t run away again this time.”

Atlas turned his head towards James, “track them. Use all your connections to track them. They need to settle this one,”

“What if we can’t find-”

“You will.” Atlas cut him off.

Atlas was thinking deeper, he’s thinking a plan. If they can’t find his parents as soon as possible, then it is possibly that the Underground will declare a war against their court.

If he knew this sooner perhaps he stop his family before they run away. They are coward, they are hiding because they are coward.

“It is impossible to find them. Your parents are clever, they won’t run away if they easily to track.” Sebastian retorted.

He’s right. Atlas parents are not stupid but clever. They planned this before, they already planned this. If they run away without a trace, then it is hard for them to track Atlas’s parents.

Fucking fuck.

“Why don’t we negotiate with other court?” Rile suggested.

“That’s not going to happen, they are turning against us. They won’t help us, it is a war between our court and the Underground. There’s no possibilities that they will be on our side.” Atlas retorted

They went silent, it’s only James’s keyboard that making a sound.

They are all felt the fear. Who wouldn’t? It is the Underground that will declare a war against them, and the councils already run away and hide for their own safe. They are not loyal to the court, they are just saving themselves while they are facing a war.

The Underground gave them warning. If they won’t turn what his parents stole, if they won’t give the real painting, if they can’t pay the debt, then there will be a war. Underground plays dirty, that’s what their motto. They will torture you until you yield. They will kill you slowly until you die.

“What place do you think your parents will hide?” James asked, he’s so damn serious while looking on his laptop.

Well, he’s not smiling anymore since the other day.

“I don’t know,” Atlas said. “We have so many houses around the world, I don’t know where to find them. The only way is to track them.”

“I already checked their banks account and I tracked that they withdraw three months ago a big amount of money from their different bank account. While last month they withdraw again a big amount of money. Aside from that, I found nothing.”

Atlas’s jaw clenched, he shut his eyes tightly. He thinks his mind will bursts. His head ache while thinking of this, he cannot let the Underground declare a war. Atlas admitted that they are no fight from the Underground. They have a vast numbers of people to fight, while on their court, it’s the four of them who left.

“Let’s think an alternative way,” Rile stood and he pour a liquor to his glass. “Perhaps we can ask Von to give the painting to the Underground since it’s us who retrieved the painting and not him.”

Sebastian sighed. “Believe me, I already convinced him to give the painting back to us but it end up us killing each other. He won’t give it back as he said that it was a masterpiece from his grandfather.”

Fuck this shit. Atlas cursed his parents so much for giving him a problem that he shouldn’t give a shit. His parents is really crazy to think that they can run and hide from the Underground, they choose the wrong nemesis.

Atlas didn’t realized that he’s gritting his teeth while he’s thinking about how he hate his parents so much. Yes, his parents really set him free finally from this job and let him live a peaceful life, but how can he live a peaceful life when his parents left him a problem.

“Perhaps let’s stay away from this mess? We are not part of this mess, we are out of here. Perhaps they are after your parents-”

“We are part of this court, so we are part of the war. We’re going to die if we won’t fight.” Atlas cut Rile off.

It’s easy to say that they are not part of the war because it his parents problem and war against the Underground, but they are also part of the court. They will be also taste the wrath of the Underground. They can run but they can’t hide.

“Did you call your siblings? I swear they run away with your parents,” James said bitterly.

“I can’t endanger my siblings. Even they run away with my parents but I cannot endanger them. Call is very dangerous, they might hacked our system and record the call,” Atlas stared from nowhere and added. “I will find them first before the Underground will find them and kill them.”

“We should abandon this turf first,” Sebastian stand and looked at them one-by-one. “We cannot fight them, yes I know that and the Underground is after us too. They will torture us for sure to find an answer. We should leave before they’ll come here.”

They are all agree. It’s not safe here anymore, they shouldn’t stay here any longer because any minutes the Underground will attack them for sure. They should find a safe place that cannot be trace by the Underground.

“Let’s pack our things first, let’s see where we should move,” James excuses himself.

“He’s weird,” Rile said while staring at the way where James go. “He’s acting weird these past fee days.”

“I noticed,” said Atlas and he turned to go to his room. He have his things here and he should pack his things and move.

While he’s packing, his phone chimed. He grabbed it and read the text that from Race.

Race : where are you?

Atlas stared on his screen, he started to feel the fears. What about Race? He promise to protect Race, but the war is coming.

Another text from Race popped up.

Race : you’re gone for 2 hours now.

Race: you okay? What happened?

Race : where are you?

Race : when you’re coming home?

Home? He’s afraid he won’t be able to come home again. He can’t risk Race. This is too dangerous and having a contact with Race, his enemy will use Race against him and he won’t like it. He can’t stomach seeing Race hurt. What happened to Race is enough and he won’t let that happen again.

How can he say to Race that he have a bigger problem? No. He shouldn’t have to tell Race about this, he’s out of this mess. He will be the enemies target if they will see Atlas’s weakness. He cannot show weaknesses.

Atlas turned his phone off and he shoved it to his pocket. His hear is hurting while he’s reading Race’s messages. Perhaps it will make Race safe. Leaving Race behind will make Race safe. Race is Atlas’s weakness.

Someone knocked his door. “You there?” Sebastian walked in and when Sebastian saw his face. “What happened?”

“I cannot put Race into this mess,”

“Then don’t. We will protect him, okay? We won’t let something happen again to him-”

“How? We can’t even protect ourselves right now. The Underground is after us, they will seek for answer and I will now give them their satisfaction and I know that they will use our weakness against us and you know who’s my weakness is.”

His heart was throbbing hard as he though of Race. He should stay away from Race in order for Race to stay safe. His life is a mess, he cannot near that wonderful man. He won’t let anything happen again. He won’t let his guard down, he’s protect Race at all cost. And protecting him, Atlas need to…

“I’ll break up with him.” His heart was bleeding, he’s thorn inside.

“What the fuck are you thinking?”

Atlas continue packing his things even though he’s bleeding so hard.

“I’m protecting him-”

“But you’ll going to hurt him.”

“It’s fine, he’ll move on-”

Atlas was lifted on the floor. Sebastian was gripping his collar tightly, but Atlas stared Sebastian without expression.

“You’re so fucking bullshit! What you’ll doing is gonna hurt him! What are you thinking? Break up much hurt than what we are facing!”

“You don’t understand,” Atlas whispered. “He’s my weakness and I won’t let him hurt because of me.”

Sebastian threw him on his bed and cursed something under his breathe. “He won’t forgive you-”

“I deserve it.”

“He won’t accept you again-”

“I know. I am ready for it.”

“He’ll hate you-”

“I hate myself more.”

Sebastian stared at him dumbfounded.

Atlas didn’t show any emotion, but his heart is bleeding, thorn. Something hit his heart so hard. Why this need to happen? He need peaceful life with Race but it seems like God didn’t let him taste it. He hate to admit that he wanted to take back what he said because he cannot stomach to see Race’s hurt.

“You’ll hurt him more than our enemy will hurt him-”

“For God’s love, Sebastian. Try to understand me, okay? It’s hard for me to decide this, you know how I love that man so much and I cannot live without him in my life. But, what I can do? God won’t let us live in peace. He’s not safe when I am around, he’s not safe. My enemy is after me and I should not show any emotion. Race is out of the picture when I am going to stop this. He’ll be safe.”

Sebastian shook his head. “I hope you’ll not going to regret this.”

A tear escaped from Atlas eyes, but before Sebastian saw it he turned his back and continued packing his things.

Damn his heart, so fucking soft when it comes to Race.

“I already regret this, Sebastian. But, my decision is already made. If protecting him is going to be this hurt, then I’ll bleed for him in order for him to be safe.”

“I hope you’ll change yo-”

A loud bang echoed. Debris fall and another loud explosion echoed. The place was shaking because of the explosion.

Atlas and Sebastian looked at each other, their eyes are wide open. Rile and James comes in to the picture.

“We are being attack!” James announced.

Atlas grabbed his things as they hurried to the exit. Another explosion and the debris are falling.

“Fuck! They knew where we are!” Sebastian cursed as he kicked the door in the exit. “They fucking fast.”

“Hurry! We should leave here as soon as possible!” Sebastian lead the way.

Another explosion and another explosion. They throwing bombs at their turf every second. It just show that they are not here to catch them, but to kill them.

“Go, go! Hurry! To the car!” Atlas exclaimed as the debris kept on falling.

They hopped in the car, Sebastian didn’t miss a second. He stepped on the gas and drove away from the turf. Even though they are far from the turf, they can still hear the continues throwing of bombs. They going to ash the turf, luckily they are safe-for now.

“Fuck that!” James cursed. “Where are we going now?”

“We should lost them,” Atlas looked on the back. “Perhaps they making us terrified. They will try to scare us until we will surrender.”

“The hell? Surrender is not my thing,” James swore and he opened his laptop.

“Make sure your laptop is secured,” Atlas said looking on the screen. “They have the best hacker, they might hack your laptop.”

“I see that,” said James as he work his fingers on the keyboard. “They’ve been trying to get in my system, but don’t worry I already block it and it is secured.”

Atlas nodded his head and he let himself relax as Sebastian drove away from the place.

“Where are we going?” Rile asked.

“Let’s go to the City,” said Atlas and they all looked at him.

“Why? We should hide as soon as possible.” Rile looked at him and brows furrowed.

“They are after us,” Atlas looked at the rearview mirror and he saw a car tailing them. “They are chasing us…” He whispered. “Go. Faster, they are here.”

“Damn it!” Rile cursed. “We should find your parents as soon as possible! I don’t like this anymore,”

“I am too.” Atlas added. “This is not our mess, but they hide because they are coward.”

“Where to?” Sebastian asked, his eyes focus on the road.

Atlas looked on the rearview mirror again and he said, “go left,” Sebastian obeyed. “Now, turn left again.”

“They keep chasing us,” Rile was looking on the back. “What are we going to do?”

“Lost them in our paradise,” Atlas smiled. “Turn right, another right and left. Turn left and go to the right.”

“They keep chasing,” James said.

“Turn left and then right.”

Atlas looked up and he smiled as he saw the building.

“Where are we?” Asked Sebastian.

“This is an abandon hospital.” Atlas replied. “Brake the gate and let’s go inside.”

“They’ll know we’re here,”

“That’s the point,” Atlas get his gun. “Let’s trap them.” When Sebastian parked the car, Atlas said. “Let’s go inside and let’s play hide and seek.”

They all grabbed their guns and run inside the hospital.

“Go, find a place where it is easy for you to aim,” he looked at his friends. “I’ll go upstair.” They all nodded and parted way.

Meanwhile, Atlas run upstair and he hide in one of the room. Luckily, there’s a lot of hole there that he can easily aim the target. Atlas looked around and he saw bed and some medical things-as Atlas remembered. This hospital was attack by a terrorist and killed all the people here, after that they abandoned the hospital.

Atlas heard the car parked in front of the abandoned building and the rustling sound of the boots.

“Here we go, little mouse.” He whispered and he peak on the hole.

He heard gunshot. Perhaps the attacker trying to scare them. Voices echoed in the place, they are too many.

Another gunshot echoed and someone cried in pain. Atlas smirked, his friends already took their action.

Come here, little mouse. I’m waiting for you.

Atlas wet his lips and he waited patiently to someone. Come here. Up. Up. Up. Here.

Another gunshot echoed in the place. Gunshot after gunshot. Atlas’s praying that his friend’s still safe and sound

Atlas silently walked out from the room, he looked from the left and right. No traces of attackers. From the second floor, Atlas saw dead bodies on the ground.

Good. It’s not his friends.

He turned his back and he walked without making a sound, he suddenly move and hide when he heard footsteps coming to his way. He put silencer and waited for the attacker.

“Fuck, where are they?” They murmured.

“We should kill those three and let that Atlas fucking live and will bring it to the Underground,”

“They are hiding.”

“Cowards.”

Cowards, huh? Atlas wet his lips and a smile tugged to his lips when the two comes to his view. He didn’t let seconds slipped, he pull his trigger and the two fell on the floor.

They are shot in the head.

Atlas walked towards the dead bodies and he looked down.

“We’re not cowards, we’re smart-” a metal pointed to his head.

“And we are smarter.”

Shit .

“Put your guns down,”

“Why would I?” He asked.

“Or I’ll kill you-”

“Oh? You will? Mhmm, is that the Underground told you?”

Atlas slowly turned his head to looked who’s pointing a gun at him. Atlas remembered the man, he’s from the other court.

“I’ll bring your head to them-”

“Ah, you’re not obeying their commands,” Atlas slowly stand and he tilted his head, he can see that the man’s already pissed at him from the look of his face.

He’s gritting his teeth badly and clenching his jaw. Atlas knew that he’s right and he pissed this man.

Good. If you cannot destroy a man physically, then destroy his mental and psychological slowly.

“I heard your court is on the lower rant, why is that? Is your court not doing well or you are not that skillful to be on top?” That’s it, break for me. Atlas knew that this man won’t kill him since that was the Underground commanded them to do. Yet they can still hurt him.

“I heard…the Underground punished you because you failed many times. Poor you, you can’t reach me even how hard you try. I’m here,” Atlas held his hand high. “And you’re here. You’re nothing to me.” Atlas spitted on the ground and he stepped on it, after that he looked at the man and he smiled.

“That’s why you’re trying hard to he like me, to be on top but you can’t do it. I am good at everything, the Underground needs me that’s why they don’t want me to be killed. How lovely right-”

“If you think I cannot reach you, then you’re wrong, Atlas. I’m already here, I can kill you here. You are coward, you’re like a sheep.” The man pointed his gun at Atlas, but Atlas didn’t show any emotions. “I don’t care if the Underground will get mad at me for killing you, but soon they will understand that you deserve to die like your family.”

Atlas gritted his teeth, he didn’t expect this counter attack.

“Then, why don’t you pull the trigger?” Atlas shrugged his shoulder, even though death is not front of him, he didn’t show any fears. He’s so calm. “Are you afraid? Afraid to hold a gun? You’re shaking,” Atlas noticed and he smirk. “It’s your first time to hold a gun? Or perhaps you are just a coward.”

He sighed and he looked over his shoulder to see the dead bodies behind him.

“You’ll die like them. Cowards die first.”

“Fuck you, I’ll kill-” three metal pointed at the man’s head. He went still and sweat streamed down his face.

Mhmm, indeed a coward.

“We’ll kill you first.” Sebastian said and he stole the gun from the man.

“L-Let me live, you need me!”

Jesus, Atlas didn’t expect that the man will say this. Such a pathetic person. Coward. He’s thirsty of titles. He just wanted to be notice and to have a titles, to be known in the Underground. Atlas was right, this man is nothing but a coward.

“We’re afraid that we don’t need a sheep like you,” Atlas said, running his fingers to his wet hair. “We are not shepherd. We need wolf not a sheep.”

Atlas pointed his gun at the man’s forehead. He’s trembling so hard, he swallowed and he tried to look toughed even though his body tells the opposite.

“Rest in paradise.”

Gunshot flared and the man fell on the ground. Blood flooded and Atlas started walking downstair.

“Let’s go and find a new place.”

CHAPTER 43

Atlas watched the waves slapping wildly to the shore like the waves was mad. Winds embraces him as the sun slowly hide in the horizon.

“We didn’t know that you have a stay cation here,” Sebastian stand beside him and they both watched the sunset.

“I bought this when I am sixteen,” a paused. “I don’t like to stay at home and when my mother was mad at me, I come here to escape.”

“This is wonderful,” Rile said on his left. “Did your parents knew this place?”

He shook his head without averted his gazed to the beautiful sunset.

“No,” he paused. “No one knew this place.”

The sky shade red, orange and black. It’s so beautiful, it’s so bright. You can’t take off your eyes from this phenomena. One of the reason why Atlas bought this place because when he wondered here, it was 4 o’clock in the afternoon. Just like what happened today, he mesmerized by the phenomena he saw on that day so he didn’t hesitated to bought this.

For Atlas, sunset is therapeutic.

“When I turned 17, I promised to myself that I will bring my wife here, we’ll live here peacefully,” he smiled when he remembered how his life change when Race came to his life. “But, this man came and I fell hard. I wanted to bring him here and we’ll live peacefully. Away from my family, away from my enemy, away from the toxic people.”

“But you planned on breaking up with him,” Sebastian added and Atlas felt a pang on his heart.

“Man, this is a bad decision.” Rile swore. “What made you think that way?”

“I want to protect him, I don’t want him to hurt.”

“But you’ll hurt him, not physical, but emotional.” Rile said, shook his head.

“We’ll do that if we wanted to protect someone,” he turned his back when the sun finally hid in the horizon. “It’s better this way than to drag him in my problems.”

“And when you’re going to break up with him?” James asked.

Atlas stared on the white sand. His heart’s bleeding. Shattered into pieces. Just thinking of Race’s reaction when he’ll break up with him-hurt, mad, sad-he cannot take it, he cannot stomach it.

“I don’t know…” He whispered. “I can’t…it hurts me.”

It will hurt Race, it will hurt for both of them. Atlas doesn’t have a choice but to choose this-to break up with Race. He cannot think another plan in order for Race to be safe. He cannot kidnap Race and bring him into a unregulated island so his enemies cannot hurt him. But, Atlas knew that Race will hate him more if he’ll do that. Race didn’t know what’s happening to him, that he have a lot of enemies chasing after him. It’s his parents’ enemies, but he’s part of this too.

Race’s clueless about this. Atlas knew that Race wanted to ask him to spill his secrets, but he can’t. Race cannot involve this. Race shouldn’t involve this.

Atlas knew that war is coming, the Underground will declare it soon and perhaps soon they’ll be dead. They are nothing against Underground. All courts turned their backs and betrayed them. His family run away and they hide for their own safety, while they’re the one who started this mess and now the Underground is after them. They’ll going to kill Atlas or perhaps torture him if he wouldn’t tell where his parents are.

He can’t endanger Race. Cutting ties with Race is the only one solution to this-even it kills him, he’ll do this just to make Race safe.

“Perhaps you need to think again about this, there’s a lot of solution to this problem, Atlas.” Sebastian said behind him and he felt a wide palm landed to his shoulder.

“Sebastian is right, that boy didn’t deserve this. Perhaps if you’ll tell him about this and warn him to find a safe place, perhaps it will make less hurt.” James added.

Atlas shook his head repeatedly.

“My man deserve to live longer. And involving him in my problems won’t help it.”

He headed to the two story house and his friends followed him inside. They did not stop persuading him not to break up with Race. But Atlas already made his mind.

“Don’t break up with him, think about what he’ll fell if you do this.” Sebastian stopped him by planting his palm on Atlas’s shoulder. “If you’re worried about his safety, we can protect them-”

Atlas bursted out laughed. His laughing but he’s thorn inside. Fucking fuck! He don’t want to cry! “Protect them?” He turned his back to face his friends. “How?! How can I protect him when I cannot even guarantee that we’ll survive.” He snapped, chest heaved. He’s suppressing his emotion, he held back his tears.

“Jesus, Atlas. Don’t you trust yourself? We’ll win this battle-”

He snapped his head towards James. “Come on, stop fooling yourselves! We can’t win this battle! Four against thousand of them?! How? We’re not superman, James. He didn’t have laser eyes. We can’t fly. We can’t turn ourselves into invisible. We can’t heal ourselves.” He threw up his hand and dropped it on his head-frustrated. “My parents run, they left and they gave me their problems! I also involved you into this mess! You are not part of this! You shouldn’t stay with me, you’ll die without pulling your trigger.”

“Shut the fuck up!” Sebastian gripped his collar and lifted him on the ground. “You think that we cannot fight?! Do you think that we are naïve? What do you expect us to do? Back out? Hide? Run? Just like your parents did?! For fuck’s sake, Atlas! We are not your parents, we are your friends! We won’t abandon you like they did to you!”

Atlas stared down at Sebastian’s bloodshot eyes. How happy Atlas was when he heard that words from Sebastian.

“We can call Von, he’ll help us. He have numbers of mens to help us in this battle-”

“You’re relying to a fucking unfaithful man,” Atlas tilted his head and he smiled. “He once fooled us, he’s the reason why we are in this situation-”

“It’s your fucking parents faults why we are here not Von-”

“-I don’t know what’s your relationship with him. I am so happy for you, Basty. But, sorry, I won’t trust that man.”

Sebastian suddenly dropped him and Atlas fell on the ground. He slowly stood and stared at his friends.

“My relationship with Race is not your concern. Whatever my decision is not your concern. I’ve made my mind and I won’t change it.” He turned his back and he headed to the second floor.

   * * * 

“It’s been two days since Atlas left,” Race said, worriedly.

Bridgette sighed as she rest her chin on her palm. “He did not pick up all your calls?”

Race’s brow furrowed, he really felt the anger growing inside him. He’s irritated because Atlas didn’t pick up his phone, yet at the same time he’s worried. Race didn’t know where his boyfriend is. He didn’t know what happened, perhaps something’s happened because Atlas often left without telling Race where he’d go.

“I have 236 missed calls in total, 58 voicemail and 158 messages, and yet I haven’t receive anything from him.” Race can’t help but to raise his voice-he’s irritated. Atlas didn’t even told him where he’s going, what he’s doing.

He’s irritated that he worried to much for Atlas, perhaps Atlas dealt with his own dilemma and he just forgot to answer his call and messages.

“I have this feeling that he have a problem,”

“What made you think that?”

Race narrowed his eyes. “He’s keeping something to me, Bridge. I knew it. Even he wouldn’t tell me, but I can feel it.”

“Maybe he’s not yet ready to tell you about that-”

“I am his boyfriend, he should trust me-”

“-what if he’s just terrified that once you’ll know his secrets, you’ll stay away from him or you’ll hate him.” Bridgette smiled. “Everyone hides a secret in order to protect their love one. Perhaps, Atlas didn’t want to hurt you. Perhaps his secrets will trigger you.”

His brow deepened. He cannot take what Bridgette said. “It’s not protecting, he’s not trusting.”

Bridgette sighed. “Perhaps you’ll understand him soon why he kept a secrets to you-”

“I can’t understand why he let me felt that I am not worthy to trust his secrets to me.”

“Do you have a secrets too right?”

Race suddenly stopped when he remembered he lied multiple times.

“It’s not counted-”

“How so?”

“He already knew about it. I have no secrets now,”

“He knew because you got hurt since you did not tell your secrets to him. You did not trust him-”

“I trust him, I just don’t want him to worried about it. I don’t want to be a burden to him.”

Bridgette stared at him and smiled sweetly. She sipped from her cup and said, “exactly. That’s what Atlas doing right now. He didn’t tell you his secrets because he’s protecting you. He didn’t want you to worried about him. He didn’t want to be a burden to you.”

Race scoffed and he averted his eyes. Wether he like it or not, Bridgette had a point. He’s think too shallow, he didn’t think deeply. He knew Atlas and Atlas will do everything to protect him.

“I don’t know what his secrets too, but Race try to understand him perhaps you’ll realize it soon why did he kept a secrets from you.”

Race didn’t talk and he just averted his eyes as he felt the thorn in his heart as he thought of Atlas didn’t trust him enough to tell him Atlas’s secrets.

What is his secrets and it is hard for Atlas to tell him? Perhaps Race will understand him if he’ll just tell him what’s bugging him and his secrets. If Atlas thought about him being mad if he’ll know Atlas’s secrets, then Race will try to understand, he’s the one to judge whether he’ll get mad or not.

Race didn’t felt Atlas’s just keeping a secrets from him, but Atlas is pushing him away. Race hope that this will not go wrong. Race hope that everything is alright.

Race took a deep breathe and he took out his medicines.

“How’s your heart by the way?” Bridgette asked.

“If you are asking about my health, I am fine but not totally fine,” he paused. “But you’re talking about my feeling, I’m not alright.” He added immediately and he drank his medicines.

“Race…” Bridgette called him, but he stood up and said, “I’ll go ahead, Bridge. See you tomorrow.” He turned his back and headed to his class.

---

“Any updates about them?” Atlas asked.

James sighed and shook his head. “None,”

“It’s been three weeks since we started tracking your parents, but until now we haven’t see any lead.” Rile appeared on the door and on his back is Sebastian, topless and looked so tanned.

“And it’s been two weeks since we chose to hide here,”

“Not hide, we’re cautious and we need a time to find Atlas’s parents.” James retorted but Sebastian just shrugged his shoulder.

“It’s the same though,” he walked in and sit beside Atlas. “We’re hiding because we’re being outnumbered by our enemies and we’re hiding because we knew that we have no fight for them. Hiding is the very good idea if you want to stay alive.”

Atlas gritted his teeth, he didn’t realized that he’s clenching his jaw and his fist too. He can’t help but agree with Sebastian. He can’t deny that they are hiding from his parents’ enemies. For them it’s not safe to go out because his parents’ enemies are just outside.

“Can’t say that I disagree,” Atlas stood up and turned his back from his friends. “Sorry for being a coward.” He walked out and headed outside the house.

He kicked the small stones while his hands are trembling because of anger.

This won’t happen to them if his parents’ didn’t stole anything from the Underground. His parents’ made him suffer even more. He hates that he admitted that they are weak to fight. They are outnumbered and once an enemies will see them roaming on a public place, then it might be their ends.

Their enemies won’t let them live peacefully. Until, they are searching for them. In order to be safe, they all turned off their phone and only James’s laptop is the only one they used.

No cellphones, no contact from outside world. Atlas didn’t know what happened to Race, he haven’t heard about Race but he never dare to let James track his boyfriend or perhaps to call Race using encrypted number. His friends persuade him to call Race and James assured him that it is safe to call Race, but he declined it. Again. Again. Again. And again.

Yes, it is tempting to call Race because he really missed that man so much, there’s no day that he wouldn’t think about Race and his health and his safety. There’s no day that he can’t help but worried about Race. There’s no day that he really wanted to call Race and tell him all his secrets-the truth-because he want Race to trust him, he want Race to know the truth. He badly want to hug and kiss Race. He would tell that he love Race so much. He wanted to go out with Race. He wanted to live a peaceful life with Race.

But there’s always a reason to stop him from doing those things. He doesn’t want to risk calling Race just to lead his enemies to Race. There’s a lot of possibilities if he will call or see Race himself.

It will hurt him, it will bleed him for sure. It will shattered his heart into pieces. He will hurt Race, he will shatter Race’s heart and he knew that he can’t put back those pieces again. Race will hate him and will never forgive him.

Atlas smiled bitterly. “It’s better this way,” he sighed. It is easily for him to break up with Race. It is easy for him to cut the ties. It’s hurt, but they will both survive.

CHAPTER 44

“Dad,” Race greeted his father as he walked down the stairs. Isaiah looked up and smiled at his son. “Did you get some sleep?”

“Yeah.”

“Good for you then,” Isaiah turned his back from Race to faced Hades. “Me and your Papa noticed that you haven’t sleep well this past few weeks. We’re worried about your health-”

“I’m good, dad,” Race rested his palm on his daddy’s shoulder. “I’m just having hard to sleep, been overthinking something these past few weeks.” He sat down next to his Papa and Race greeted his Papa. “Hey, Pa.”

“It’s not good for your health right?” Hades stared at him worriedly.

Race can saw in their eyes that they are all worried about him. It’s visible that Race was not on himself these past few weeks because he’s been thinking about Atlas’s whereabouts.

Month passed and Atlas still haven’t call or even message him about his whereabouts. Months of being alone again like the old times when Atlas didn’t came to his life. When Atlas was around, it feels like heaven and he have nothing to prayed of, but when Atlas left without a word it felt like a holy friday.

Race didn’t stop and calling Atlas, but he always got the same answer. When he tried to search for Atlas’s family he didn’t find anyone related to Atlas. He never knew Atlas’s parents, his siblings and other relatives.

Just their names, but their mansion was abandoned months ago. He can’t even search where Atlas’s friends. Race didn’t know where Sebastian, James and Rile was. They all disappeared all of the sudden without any word.

Everyday, hurt and rage grow inside Race system. Even how he told to himself that perhaps Atlas had his reason why he left without a word, or perhaps he have a problem that he need to solve and he just forgot to tell Race about it, or perhaps just perhaps that Atlas will comeback after a week, but weeks turned into a month and his hope died in his heart and his eyes.

What can he hope for? Atlas won’t comeback, if he had a plan to comeback to Race then he must do it weeks after he left Race, but it’s already a month and still no answer, no Atlas shown up, no Atlas who comeback for him. Nothing.

Atlas left him.

That’s it. Just simple. ATLAS LEFT HIM. He left and he’ll never comeback.

What the reason? Race didn’t know. Race thought of the reasons why Atlas left him without saying a word:

First, perhaps Atlas finally come to realized that it is disgusting to be his boyfriend or to be in a relationship with same sex.

Second, perhaps Atlas intention was to make Race fall for him and when Race fell deeply in Atlas’s soul-Atlas left him. Perhaps Atlas was laughing at him right now because he’s so damn so stupid.

Third, perhaps Atlas had a problem. Whenever Race asked for Atlas’s parents and whenever Race opened up about his family, Atlas always dodged the questions. He always had a ways to avert the question and Race noticed that Atlas was not close to his family. Perhaps Atlas had a problem related to his family and he need time to solve it.

Fourth, perhaps Race’s just hallucinating everything. Perhaps this is not true. All of this is not true. Atlas never existed, it’s just the product of his mind, all of this are fake. Nothing of this is true, it’s all fake. Perhaps he’s just imagining someone because he felt alone and lonely that’s why Atlas suddenly came to his life.

Fifth, perhaps Atlas didn’t love him like Race love Atlas. Perhaps it is just a one sided love and all this years, all the time that they are together, was he’s the one who’s really enjoying and loving it, but Atlas didn’t.

Sixth, Atlas fell out of love. Race thought that it is inevitable that Atlas will fell out of love for him. Well, Race thought that he’s boring and Atlas won’t be happy with him. Perhaps Atlas fell out of love and he left because he already found someone.

Seventh, perhaps Atlas didn’t love Race from the start. Perhaps Race was just his past time-his toy, and now he left because he felt jaded and he lost his taste.

And lastly, perhaps Atlas left because he’s not clean anymore. Perhaps Atlas left because he’s already dirty and someone marked him. Perhaps Atlas stay for a meantime because of pity, but he left sooner because he’s dirty and Atlas was disgusted and he won’t love a man who already marked by the other man.

It’s so fucking hurt to think all of this everyday. It’ Race routine to think of this all day, whenever he woke up in the morning, whenever he took a shower, whenever he go somewhere, whenever he go out with Bridgette, whenever he’s alone, whenever he go to sleep. All of these possible reason, he always thought of this and it end up hurting him and it end up he’s crying and sobbing so hard that he can’t breathe anymore.

It shattered him, he didn’t know why Atlas did this to him. What he did wrong why Atlas left him and hurt him like this? They are in a good terms right? The day Atlas left, he wore a big smile and he promise to call or perhaps text him, but he received nothing.

He kept on assuming that perhaps one day Atlas will show up and he’s thinking about his reaction and what would he say when Atlas show up. There are also days that he prayed at night that Atlas will comeback with his smile and hug him like Race used to. He will never get mad at Atlas, he would accept Atlas with his arms spread widely. God, he would never get mad at Atlas. He will accept that man. God knows how much he love Atlas.

Everyday he’s hoping, but everyday his hope dies.

“Dad, Pa,” he stood up, “I’ll have to go,”

“Where are you going?” Isaiah asked worriedly and he can’t help but to stood up.

“Uhm, somewhere-”

“Can you just stay here? I’m worried-”

Race smiled and hugged his dad. “Dad, don’t worry. I won’t do anything that will make you worried.” He assured his daddy. Race knew that his father’s worried about him perhaps his father was worried that he’ll risk or endanger himself or hurt himself.

His heart was shattered and he’s bleeding, but he’s still on his right mind. He won’t do anything stupid that will hurt him and he won’t let his fathers worry for his health.

Atlas left him with a part of him, he’s not whole anymore when Atlas left him with his heart, yet he still have the half of it. He’s not crazy to hurt himself.

“For God’s love, son, take care of yourself.” Hades took a deep breathe.

“Yes, Papa. I will,” he waved his hand and he went off. As he stepped outside their house, his shoulder fell.

Another day without him again.

The sun shine, the weather is good and the sky is blue. The wind is dancing the leaves and birds chirping and singing. Nothing change.

That man left him and until now he didn’t show himself to Race. That man left him but his life will go on, it doesn’t mean that Atlas left him and he’ll buried himself in the past. Actually, it is hard for Race to move on for another day, it is fucking hard because everyday he thought about was all Atlas-hoping that someday he’ll comeback. But now, Race already convinced himself that Atlas will never come back.

And now, there’s nothing to stop him to move on for his future, someone left him and he’ll keep going on.

Race get in his car and he started the engine. After Atlas left, he let himself to get busy just to forget Atlas, so he made himself busy by learning to drive.

He waved again to his parents when he saw them watching him from the door and he drove away.

From the look of his father, he knew that Isaiah didn’t like him to drive a car. The other night, he eavesdropped to his parents and they’re talking about him. Isaiah was complaining that they shouldn’t let Race to drive a car because his father thought that it’s too dangerous for him to drive alone. His father concern is that there’s a lot of people died in a car crash and some died because they had a heart attacked while driving and no one save them. Isaiah was worried that it will happen to Race. On the other hand, his Papa Hades said carefully and softly that Race’s already old and they need to free him and not to tie him. Thank God, he have his Papa Hades that will always on his side.

Race stopped the car in front of the café near the school-the café that he and Atlas loved. This is the café where they go whenever they wanted to talk or to date.

As Race stepped inside the café, the owner greeted him and her eyes was looking for someone with him.

“Mat-,”

“Matcha.” The owner cut him off and smiled. “And?”

Race stopped and he starred. The owner was waiting for him and he said, “just Matcha.” Ab he headed to the table near the window.

From where he’s sitting, he can clearly see what’s happening outside.

Something dropped to his table, “here’s your matcha,”

“Thanks.”

The owner nodded and turned her back, but she suddenly stopped and faced him again. “Where’s your boyfriend?”

Race flinched and he felt something pang in his heart, but he immediately brushed it away.

Boyfriend? I didn’t know I have a boyfriend.

Race crash-out the reason number four that he’s only hallucinating everything and it was just his imagination that Atlas exist, but today that the owner asked about Atlas, then perhaps it’s real. This is real. This is fucking real.

It’s fucking reality that Atlas left him broken.

“Oh,” he didn’t know what to say. He can’t say that they broke up because they never broke up. “He left.” He answered.

“Oh, where did he go?”

Who knows?

“Abroad.” He lied.

The owner turned and headed back to the counter after she asked too much question and Race lied every time he answered.

He sipped on his matcha peacefully while he’s watching the car passed outside.

His phone chimed and he picked it up.

“Bridge,”

“Where are you?”

He looked outside. “Uhm, did my dad call you?”

“Duh, you know me, Race. I feel that you’re not in your house and you go out without me!”

Race sighed, all through this days, Bridgette’s always with him by his side. Race knew that sometime his dad called Bridgette whenever he go out. Race understand that though because they are just worried about him.

“Come here, I’ll send the location.”

“I swear, Race, I’ll kill you with you’ll go out without me again!”

“God, you’re so noisy,” Race smiled. “Of course, it’s not fair to your boyfriend that you’ll here with me everyday I go out.”

“If that is your concern, then next time I’ll bring him with me!”

Race rolled his eyes and he sighed. He hang-up the phone and he sipped again to his Matcha. He typed the location and hit he send.

“Race,”

That voice. He can’t be imagining things again. Perhaps his ears just playing with him. It can’t be that he heard that familiar voice that he longing for a month.

“Race.” Another called from that voice.

His heart pounding and throbbing inside his ribcage. It felt like it will burst out in his ribcage.

He slowly looked up and he stared at the man who left him month ago. He stared at the man who abandoned him. The man who shattered his heart. The man who broke his heart.

Race’s bleeding.

“Y-You…” He blinked.

He can’t believed that Atlas’s here in front of him. He wore a hoddie, a face mask and a glasses, but Atlas pull down his face mask and pull up his glass.

God. Race’s trembling so bad. He didn’t know why. He didn’t know if it because of anger or the eagerness to hug this man in front of him.

“Atlas,” he thought he might cry, but he hold back his tears. “You’re back.” He laughed, bitterly.

“Y-You’re finally back,” his voice broke, but he doesn’t care anymore. “Tell me, am I a game to you? Are you playing? Why I’m not away of it, mhm? Why did you left me and after a month you come back just like nothing happened?” Race swallowed hard as he held back his tears.

“We’re good before you left, right? We’re good, but suddenly you went missing and I couldn’t contact you. I-I…I can’t find you everywhere. I am damn worried about you, and I kept on hoping that you’ll come back to me, but month passed and you still haven’t show up. I-I think, you’re just playing. I think, you like this…seeing me hurt, seeing me bleed, seeing me shatter, seeing me breaking.” Race’s eyes was red. “Is this your pleasure to watch me breaking into peaces? Does it make you happy to see my like this? Fuck up? You-You left me. You left. Why you come back, mhmm? Why? Did you come back to laugh in front of my face that I fuck up and that I an fell in your traps?”

Fuck this shit. Race hope that Atlas tell him that he’ll show up, so he can prepare himself. Not like this. He can’t take it.

“I have something to tell you,”

That’s it? So cold.

Race’s lips wobbled and he wanted to punch Atlas.

Asshole! Asshole! Fucking asshole! He left a month and that’s it? That’s it?! Treat him coldly like he have a sin?

Oh, God.

“Atlas-”

“I’m breaking up with you.”

So straight to the point. So cold. No emotion. No reaction. Just…so heartless.

Race felt dizzy. “What?” He scoffed. “After a month and that’s what you’ll say to me? Unbelievable!”

God! What’s happening?! Why does my heart won’t stop hurting?! Why does it throbbing hard and it hurt me so fucking much!

“Did you hear what I said?” His emotion was straight. Like he doesn’t care anymore, like he fell out of love. “I’ll repeat it if you didn’t hear me and this time, please listen carefully so I won’t repeat this anymore.” Atlas snapped, his words are harsh.

“Atlas, just fucking make me understand why you left!” His head aquiver so he gripped the hem of his shirt tightly. “Just…I-I just want your fucking explanation why you left. Just make me understand. I will understand you…just…” A tear slipped in his eyes. He can’t held it anymore. “Just…not like this. Not like this-”

“Can’t you fucking understand?” Atlas snapped. “I’m breaking up with you-”

“Then why you show up? I hope you never shown up if you’re going to hurt me like this. It fucking hurt than you left me month ago.” Race gritted his teeth.

Atlas averted his gazed, his jaw clenched and he looked back again to him.

“Why did you left?” Race asked in a low voice. He doesn’t care if he’s fucking crying and if he’s trembling so hard. He just wanted to know the truth why Atlas left.

“Does it matter-”

“It does to me.”

Atlas stared at him directly into his eyes. Race didn’t like this anymore. He didn’t like what will happen next. He wanted to seal Atlas month and stopped him from talking because he didn’t want to hear the reason anymore.

“To be honest, I am not happy with you anymore. I-I realized that you have no use to me since…” He swallowed. “Since someone already marked you. You are not virgin anymore. You know what? I only want your body, I am just curious what you taste like so I courted you and made you fall for me. I fucking waited for you to give up to me, but it almost years and I haven’t taste you, and to my fucking surprise someone already fucking stole your virginity?!”

“Atlas, stop. Fucking stop. Leave if you-”

“Oh, God! You’re so naïve! Do you really think that a man like me is serious?! Fucking fuck! I love how you act so naïve in front of me! Clueless! You didn’t fucking noticed that I only wanted your fucking body and not your fucking love? I really love how naïve you are. I fucking love…you’re so naïve and easy to manipulate.”

“Stop. Fucking stop! Leave if you want to leave! Don’t…just don’t fucking insult me, Atlas! Do not fucking insult me! Enough! You already had enough! Leave! Fucking leave!” Race exclaimed while he’s pointing the door. Tears won’t stop streaming down his face like a faucet.

Atlas stared at him for a moment before he wore his mask and glasses and he left.

Race watched Atlas left, but he stopped when he saw Bridgette.

Race averted his gaze and buried his face in his palm.

CHAPTER 45

“He’s an asshole!” Bridgette exclaimed and she cannot behave, she’s walking around and throwing hate words towards Atlas. “He shown up just to say that to you?! He show up just to say that he’s breaking up with you?! Is he crazy?! Fucking crazy?!”

He is. He’s fucking asshole.

After what happened earlier in the café, Race left and Bridgette come with him because she witnessed how Race cried after he pushed Atlas away earlier.

He’s so fucking asshole. Race hope that he didn’t meet Atlas if that man is going to hurt him like this. He never thought that in just a snapped of a finger, everything change. Why does this need to happened? What did he do wrong? Nothing right?

He already said to Atlas that he’s dirty, and Atlas said he’s not after his body, but what happened just now? Why Atlas said it to him? Why hurt him? Why left and then he shown up just to break him up? He already left, so why come back just to hurt Race again?

He getting there. Race’s getting there. He was on his last step of his moving on, but he come back to ruin his life again? Race was on his last step to forget that Atlas exist and he’s on his last step to accept that Atlas won’t come back again, but now? He shown up. Yes, he fucking shown up, but not to come back to his life, but to ruin his life and hurt him again. His hearth broke into pieces.

“God, I swear! If I saw that Atlas again, I’ll fucking kill him! I swear, Race! I swear!” Her face was red. “Did you hear me, Race? Dis you hear me?” Bridgette leaned in and she’s pointing herself.

Race sighed and nodded his head. “Yes, loud and clear.”

Bridgette arched her brow and she leaned back. Her fist on her waist while she’s staring directly at Race.

“I swear, Race. I’ll kill that fucking asshole!”

Race nodded his head again. “Mhmm.”

“You won’t stop me right?”

“Nope, I won’t,”

“Is this fine with you?”

“Yup. Go ahead.”

Bridgette’s shoulder dropped and she walked towards him and she sit beside him.

“What are you going to do now?” She asked in a low voice.

Race looked up, he stared at the branches of trees and he watched the birds. It’s quiet here, you can only hear the birds chirping and the rustling sounds of the wind as it dances with the leaves.

It’s a right place to think.

“I don’t have a choice, but to start again,” he replied weakly.

“I hate to ask this, but…what more did he say to you earlier?”

“Oh, nothing, he just wanted to cut the ties.”

Bridgette didn’t need to know that Atlas also said that he’s after Race’s body. Race didn’t want to remember that because it will hurt him more. He cannot believed that those words comes out in Atlas’s mouth.

Did he really think of it or perhaps he just said it just to hurt him and to agree in this break up?

Atlas won’t say it to him. Even though Atlas said that he’s just after his body, but there’s a part of Race that didn’t believed what Atlas said. Race didn’t believed either that Atlas was just after his body because as Atlas said earlier, it’s almost a year and he still haven’t claim him. Not because Atlas was waiting for him to give himself to Atlas, but Atlas was not thinking of it anymore, perhaps it comes to his mind, and yet he didn’t claim him.

Perhaps Atlas has a problem and he need a space or perhaps Atlas was trying to hurt him by saying those harsh word, so Race will stay away from him.

He’s crazy. Race is crazy to think this way. Atlas already hurt him, but he’s thinking on a good side?

What if Atlas really telling the truth that he’s just after his body and Atlas didn’t love him truly? It’s so clear and Atlas already said it to his face that he didn’t even love him just the way Race love Atlas.

He didn’t know what to think anymore. His mind ached and he cannot think any possibilities why Atlas did it to him.

If Atlas was just trying to hurt him so he’ll stay away. If Atlas has a problem and his solution is to stay away from him because Atlas didn’t want him to get involve whatever his problem is. If Atlas was just making up a reason. Nothing will change the fact that Atlas hurt him. And even Race’s right that Atlas was just pretending and making up all this things, nothing will change the fact that Atlas hurt him. It hurt fucking much. Hurting him is not a solution to whatever Atlas’s problems.

“I can’t believed that he broke up with you! I thought you two are strong and no one can break you apart,”

“I thought too, but I was wrong.”

Bridgette pursed her lips and she rolled her eyes. She crossed her arms against her chest. She’s so stressed.

“I don’t know what comes to his mind why he did that. He left you months ago and then he showed up to said that?! What the fuck? He’s an asshole! I swear, I’m gonna break his neck when I see him or perhaps I’ll cut his groin!”

Race furrowed and he shook his head.

“Don’t stress yourself, Bridge,”

She faced him. “Why do you look so calm? You should be mad at him, you should hate him or curse him! You should not act so calm-”

Race put his arm on Bridge shoulder to stop the girl from talking. “He left, he broke up with me. Does my hate towards him can bring back the old times when he still love me? The time when he still here? My anger can’t change anything, Bridgette. Yes, I hate him right now, but throwing tantrums and rants won’t help me to bring him back to me.” He stopped when his voice cracked, and he blinked twice, and looked away. “I hate myself more than I him, Bridge. I hate myself because I let my man walk away from me. I let him to walk out of my life, if I stop him perhaps he’s still here with me. So Bridge, curse him, hate him, be mad at him, do what ever you want, you are free to feel all of that, Bridge, but you can’t change the fact that he’s gone and he’ll never come back.”

      * * * 

“It’s done,” Atlas let himself to drop his body on the floor as his tears won’t stop falling. “I-I broke up with him…I-I hurt him.”

“Did you regret it?” He heard Sebastian voice near him.

Atlas tried to wipe his tears away, but whenever he did that another tears will comes out. Never ending tears, just like his heart right now-it’s bleeding.

“I-I regret everything…” He sobbed.

Atlas felt someone lay beside him and when he checked who is it, he saw Sebastian, Rile and James laying, and staring on the ceiling.

“Then, come back to him and take back what you said to him and tell him everything, perhaps he’ll understand it. Race is not a narrow minded and he’ll understand you.”

Atlas shook his head as he curled up his body into a fetus form. He let himself to cry hard, he didn’t mind the three people beside him.

He’s broken. His heart is bleeding for Race. He cannot take a look at Race for a minutes because he can’t stomach the pain. It’s hurt to see Race cry he wanted to grabbed Race and hug that man so fucking tight because he missed him so much.

Atlas friends didn’t know that he was about to take back all he said to Race because it’s killing him when Race stared at him with those red eyes, full of sadness, hurt and hope dies in his eyes. Atlas didn’t saw any hatred or madness in Race eyes, it’s all woe.

Atlas regret everything. It take him month to made him to cut the ties with Race. It’s not because he’s afraid that his enemies will see him with Race, but he’s not yet ready to cut ties with Race and he didn’t have the nerve to face Race after he left.

“Go, come back to him, it’s not late to come back-”

“He hate me. He don’t want to see me again,”

“You don’t know that. Race is not like that, he’ll understand if you explain everything to him.” Sebastian didn’t stop persuading him.

Atlas shook his head, he hope that Race will let him to enter his life again, but that won’t happen, Race won’t accept him again.

“I’m late-”

“Don’t fucking said that. Race love you and he’ll understand you!”

“Perhaps it’s better for us to tear apart? There’s a lot of enemies out there and waiting to hunt me, I cannot risk him-”

“We’ll protect him-”

“-funny that we’ll say that we can protect him while all we did is to hide from our enemies.”

The pain didn’t stopped, it becomes worst every time Atlas think about Race and when he remember the tears slipped in Race’s eyes. He wanted to wipe it and take back all he said, he didn’t even know why he said that.

Atlas hate himself. He really hate himself for saying those words to Race. He wanted to jump on a cliff and let himself die there because he hurt Race. He won’ forgive himself for saying those words. He thought that he deserve to die.

Why scared when he have nothing to lose? He already lost Race. He already let Race to tear apart from him. He have nothing, so why afraid to die? Even he’ll come back to Race, Race won’t accept him anyway.

“Jesus, Atlas. I know you’re smart-”

“Yeah, I am a consistent with highest honor-”

“-we all know that,” Sebastian sighed. “You know what? You act dumb these days. I thought you are smart, but why did you chose this? Why chose to let him go? Why not fight for him?”

Sebastian become Atlas’s adviser since they hide in his stay-cation. There’s no days that Sebastian won’t give his advises specially when it comes to him and Race.

“I am smart, but I am not a superhero. I can’t protect him-”

“So you abandoned him-”

“I did not abandon him!”

“What did you do month ago?”

He stopped, can’t find any other words to counterpart what Sebastian said.

He’s dam right. Sebastian is right, he really did abandoned Race. He left and he didn’t even call or text him, he never shown up, and he never said to Race his reason why he left. He disappeared like a bubbles in the air.

“What ever you say, nothing will change everything,” his voice was hard as a stone.

“You’re weak, you didn’t deserve him.”

“I know-”

“Perhaps he deserve someone else? Someone that can fight for him, someone who won’t abandon him. Perhaps he deserve someone who are not like you.”

Rile swore under his breathe after Sebastian said that. Atlas gritted his teeth and he averted his gaze, he’s so fucking damn anger and fuming right now. He wanted to punch Sebastian on his face.

Thinking about Race holding someone’s hands, laughing with someone, doing normal dates with someone, traveling around the world with someone, doing what wrote in Race’s bucket list-thinking all of this hurt his fucking heart so much.

“Perhaps he deserve someone better than me, eh?” Atlas laughed bitterly and Sebastian cursed him.

“You’re an asshole-”

“I am.” Atlas stood up and he wipe his tears, he turned his back and was about to leave when James stopped him.

“Better prepare,” James said seriously, he’s sitting now on the floor while staring directly to Atlas’s eyes.

“What?”

“Finally found them,” Atlas heart beat faster, his chest heaved and rage built inside him. “Fucking found them.”

“Fuck yeah!” Rile whispered.

But Sebastian did not comment and he just continue staring at Atlas.

Atlas gazed down at Sebastian and he smiled.

“If our heart destined to be together, whatever happens, even he hurt ourselves-inevitably he’ll comeback with me. And if that will happen, I’ll fucking spread my arms wide open.” He smiled. “If our hearts find ways to find their homes.”

CHAPTER 46

Days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into month.

Those days, Atlas was a goner. The Atlas they knew disappeared like a bubbles in the air. The sunshine he once when he’s with Race was gone.

As he walked towards the door, James suddenly comes into his view, holding his laptop on his right hand.

“You have to see this,”

“Got any news?” He asked, emotionless.

“Yup!”

James got Atlas’s attention. “Spill.”

“You parents- they are moving from one place to another,” Atlas’s brow furrowed deeper, but he let James to continue. “I thought, they are just careless or perhaps they are sending us a message, but then I saw this.” James turned his laptop to Atlas so Atlas can see what’s he’s trying to show.

Atlas’s eyes narrowed at the pictures on the screen. Rage flowing into his veins as he narrowed his eyes to his parents faces.

“The Underground knew where is your parents,” as Atlas thought. There’s no way that the Underground couldn’t find the whereabouts of his parents. “You know that we’ve been monitoring your parents since the last two weeks we knew where they are. And now, the Underground knew where they are and chasing them that’s why they moving from one place to another.”

“Where are they?” He asked without tearing his eyes on the screen.

“Today? They are out of reach for my radar, but I monitor our enemies moves and they are coming back in the Philippines-”

“They are stupid to come back here when their lives are more dangerous,” Atlas swore under his breathe.

“I think, your parents will seek for your protection-”

“The hell I care? They all run away and fucking set me in this situation where their enemies chased us instead of them.”

“It’s your parents faults, your siblings are out of here.”

Atlas averted his eyes as he stand straight.

Fucking fuck.

If his parents didn’t stole millions and run away perhaps this will not going to happened. His life will be in peace and he could stay with-

He stopped and groaned, closing his eyes as the man he love comes into his mind.

“Where have you been?” Sebastian comes out from the kitchen and Rile was with him.

“I need fresh air-”

“It’s absolutely fresh here,” Sebastian cut him off.

“I’ll take a rest first, I can’t entertain you today.” He was about to move when Rile handed him a glass of wine.

“Bad day?”

“It’s nothing to worry about-”

“I’m worried about Race because he has a stalker now.” Again, Sebastian cut him off.

Atlas whipped his head to Sebastian who was sitting comfortably on his seat while sipping on his wine.

“Don’t you dare to speak his name again-”

“Come on, one month of moving on? Do you think you can move on and forget him like that? It’s not easy, Atlas.”

“It’s fucking easy,” he snapped. “I can move on, I’ll forget him.”

“You’re a fool.” Sebastian laughed that made Atlas irritated. His hand gripped on his glass.

“You think you can move on so easily,” Sebastian shook his head and stared directly onto his eyes. “I know you love that man so much, and this whole fucking thing that happens today is the fucking reason why you stay away from that man and pushed him away. It’s not convenient to pushed the man who’s the reason why you change and accept who you really are.”

“You don’t know anything,”

“Jesus, Atlas, we knew everything!” Sebastian snapped. “We knew that you always stalked Race, and perhaps protecting him from the distance, and perhaps because you can’t stay away from that man for the reason of even how many times you tried to forget that man and moved on, you still love him! You cannot unloved the man who made you feel the every first. The first kiss, the first true laugh, the first date, the first true smile, the first heart beat, the first jealousy, the first blush, and the first you felt alive.”

Cat got Atlas’s tongue. He can’t speak, he tried to open his mouth for a retort, but instead he closed it again because he can’t think anything for a retort.

He’s fucking right. His friend is fucking right and he hates it.

Yes, he’s been stalking Race for a month now because he wanted to protect Race at all cost, and aside from that he can’t stay away from Race.

He tried to moved on, he really wanted to forget Race because there’s no future for both of them. Atlas accepted that he can’t be with Race just like he promised. Atlas already accepted that there’s no Race in the future.

This whole damned thing makes it worse. This whole damned thing slapped him that he can’t be with Race because Race will be in danger and he can’t take it.

He tried to forget, but what happened? Sebastian was right, he’s a fool. He’s fooling himself that he can move on and forget Race, but the truth is it’s the hardest thing he do.

Everyday, every night, every seconds, and whenever he’d go, he always thinking about Race.

He’s thinking that protecting Race from afar even though there’s no them in the future.

He’ll continue loving Race even though Race won’t love him again.

He’ll do everything for that man.

“God,” Rile sighed. “Sebastian stop doing this, okay?”

“I’m just feel sorry for that guy-”

“If you are worried about Race, then why not court him? I was thinking that you like Race so much that you acted like this.”

Sebastian set his glass on the dest and stood, shocked. “What the hell?! Do you really think of that? Is that what you think of me?”

“For fuck’s sake, Sebastian you acted like one,” thinking that Sebastian likes Race made his blood boils, he doesn’t mean to say it, but it slipped from his mouth and now there’s no taking it back.

Sebastian seems furious.

“What the fuck happened to you?! I am worried about that man because you hurt him enough! You left him again and again and that man only loves you!”

“I have to time for this-”

“That man fucking loves you and you hurt him,” I know.

“Sebastian, will you stop talking about him? You can’t blame me to think that you like him because you acted like this.”

“That man doesn’t deserve this-”

“-what the fuck do you want me to do then?!” He faced Sebastian with furious. “Come back to him and acted like nothing happened? Beg him to accept me again or to love me again?! You really think that is a good ideas huh?!”

“Don’t be a fool!” Rile was stopping Sebastian from throwing a punch, and here Atlas thought that he really deserve a punch. “You can tell him the whole story and try to make him understand! You trust him with your life don’t you? Why don’t you try to tell him all your secrets and what’s really happening? He’ll understand you! Not like this, Atlas. Not like this!”

“Why are you meddling with my relationship with him?! It’s not your problem anymore!” Now James also hugging him to stop him, but James can’t stop Atlas.

“Because that guy is the reason why you changed! That guy is the reason why you change in a fucking good way! I watched you being alive on the days when you are with that man and I am so fucking happy to see you that way, finally my best fried have his happily ever after.” Sebastian pointed an accusing index finger to him. “Because of your parents you are like a statue, no emotions, no expression and ruthless, you hate the fucking world so much, but then when you met that guy and everything change. You smiled, you laughed, and you are back from being dead. I don’t want to see the old Atlas again, I like the new Atlas. The Atlas after he met that man. You deserve to be happy, you both deserve to be happy. That man doesn’t deserve the hurting, the pain. You don’t deserve it too.

Atlas stared and stared, his heart was pounding hard and faster inside his ribcage, perhaps trying to escape.

He fucking love what he heart just right now from his friend, he didn’t think of that.

But instead of crying, he bite back his tears and masked it away. He face Sebastian, emotionless.

“Fucking love to hear that from you, but Sebastian war is coming and love can’t save me.”

He walked away.

                    * * *

Atlas’s lying on the shore as he stared the beautiful night sky. It’s peaceful outside, cold wind embraces him and the waves slapped loudly on the shore like they are mad from the world.

Someone’s approaching with a light steps.

“We’re going to trap your parents tomorrow,”

“And I am fucking ready to face them.” He retorted as Sebastian laid beside him.

“What are you going to do after we trap them,” he added immediately. “If we’ll succeed.”

Atlas’s been thinking of this everyday. Yes, he wanted his parents to be caught by them an wanted to interrogate them why they did this and run just to give him a problem.

His parents are ruthless and heartless when it comes to him, they didn’t care for him, and Atlas knew it.

“I was hoping that maybe one day they will change, but no. They never did. They never did care for me, and I wouldn’t dare to care for them for what will happen for the next days.” He sighed. “I just want my siblings back. I don’t want them to involve in this problem between my parents and the Underground.”

“James thought that your siblings are not with your parents when they landed here in the Philippines,”

Atlas whipped his head towards Sebastian. “What do you mean?”

Sebastian looked at him and said, “James thought that your parents hid your siblings, perhaps they already knew what will happen when the Underground found them. They will be dead in a seconds.”

Atlas’s heart pounded inside his ears like a drum, hard and fast. He’s worried about his siblings whereabout.

But, Atlas’s sure that August will take care of his two sisters. Atlas hoped that they are safe from the Undergrounds people.

“That’s makes my worried ease,” he finally took a deep breathe. “I am just worried that they will involve in this war. I don’t want them to get hurt-”

“They won’t.” Sebastian assured. “I hope your parents will surrender before everything become worse.”

“Knowing my parents, they won’t surrender. It will makes their death earlier.”

Sebastian groaned and closed his eyes tightly. “When this things get over? We’re just facing the worse enemy.”

“When anyone of us will die. Perhaps us or them.”

Sebastian scoffed and smacked him on the chest. “You will not die,”

“People die,” Atlas laughed even though his heart was heavy. “We’re going into a war and do not expect that they are throwing us a confetti, but a bullet that will surely kill us if we won’t kill them first.”

“No dying. We’ll going into this fucking war together, and we will stand together. No one will die.”

Atlas smiled at what he heard from his friend, it’s truly assuring but life is not comforting. Everyday, life made their life worse and hard to live peacefully because it’s too cruel to let them.

“You’re right,” he whispered enough for Sebastian to hear. “It’s really hard to move on and to forget him.”

It’s fucking hard than he expected.

He can’t move on from that man and he cannot forget that man so easily. It’s like he’s glued to Race and perhaps they are magnet to each other.

“I love him… I really and truly in love with him, but my love can’t save both of us but endanger us. If I get closer to him, the more danger he’ll attract that’s why I chose to stay away even though it’s hurt and it’s fucking killing me everyday. Love can’t save us and there’s mo future ahead of us.”

He felt a pang in his heart and something like a paper ripped inside. He thought that he’s bleeding inside and it’s making him hard to breathe air.

He didn’t think that missing Race will be this hard and will make him suffer like this.

“After this problem, you will tell him everything. That man deserve to know everything,” Sebastian warned him.

After this. After all of this.

Atlas smiled and stared on the night sky.

“After this, I want peace.” He said. “Whether I am alone after this or to be with him.”

Sebastian smacked him and laughed. “You’ll be back to each other. You said you two exchange hearts, and I know that your hearts will find ways to find its home.”

Atlas didn’t realized that Sebastian talked like this.

“I didn’t know that you have the side of this… Love adviser-”

“I’ll kill you if you didn’t do anything to take him back.” Atlas actually laughed, a true laughed.

It’s been a long time since he laughed truly. He’s been living in the dark in the past two months.

Atlas sit and he looked over Sebastian and said.

“I have something to tell you,”

“What is it?”

“It’s a favor and I need you to promise me that you will never fail me.”

Atlas saw how Sebastian rolled his eyes, but said, “fucking spill it. I hate waiting.”

“Promise me first that you’ll obey me-”

“I’m not your fucking-”

“-just fucking promise me. I need you to trust me and I need you to obey me.”

They are staring at each other. Then Sebastian gave up and sighed.

“I promise to obey and fucking keep on your mind that I fucking trust you, bullshit.”

Atlas smiled and he start talking.

Damn, he wanted to see Race. He wanted to touch Race so much. He wanted to kiss and hug that man so much. He missed Race so much and wanting and needing him at the same time is killing Atlas.

CHAPTER 47

“What’s the plan?” Rile asked. They are on a circular form, thinking and planning for their next steps.

They just heard that the Underground will set a trap for Atlas’s parents, and surely the Underground will make them suffer. They are not the people who ask first before kill. They are the type of person who kill first then ask.

Atlas didn’t know why he keep involving himself on his parents problems. This is not his problems anymore, he shouldn’t involve himself if he love his life so much. He knew that his parents knew that the Underground was after them, probably will kill them on the second that the people from Underground spot them.

So, why the fucking fuck Atlas made himself involve in his parents problems? Why he wants to lure their enemies away from his parents. Why does he kept on worrying for his parents safety? They did terrible to him, made him suffer to death, but he’s still here caring for his parents, and probably save their asses.

“We’ll plan for their exit route,” Atlas stared on the screen where he can see the red dots moving. It’s the enemies moves, they can detect and track it now, thanks to James. “If they’ll travel by air, the Underground might trap them or perhaps catch them. And if they’ll travel by water, it’s not sufficient since it will take days to arrive to their distention and perhaps they might be dead before they reach the deck.”

“What are we going to do?” James asked staring at him.

Atlas didn’t answered but he just stared the screen where he saw the dots constantly moving. They are too many dots came from Underground. His parents will be dead by this time if they are not cautious enough.

He hate his parents but the love that he felt was still there inside his heart. He’s not a robot, he’s not ruthless and heartless or what you will call him. He’s still the Atlas. Even how many times that his parents hurt him and made him suffer, and even though he kept on denying, deep inside he’s worried about their condition. He still cared.

He sighed and rubbed his temple. “Let’s lure them away and give my parents a time to hide,” it’s fucking worse and deadly plan, but what else he can do? His parents is in danger right now.

“No, no. Let’s think different plan, we can’t do that-”

“They’re chasing my parents right now and perhaps they are now preparing for their death! I won’t let them kill my parents, Basty.” He cuts Sebastian off.

The three heads whips on his direction, shocked by what he just said. It’s not Atlas who just talked.

He’s shocked with himself too, he can’t believed that he still care for his parents. He can’t believed that there’s a little care and worried inside him.

“But it’s deadly.” Sebastian argued. “They are too many and we are outnumbered. We can’t defend ourselves, only if we have a vast of numbers of allies who’ll fight with us then perhaps we can stand against them.”

“Seb-”

“Sebastian is right,” Atlas whipped his head towards Rile. “It’s too dangerous. Deadly. We can’t fight them-”

“I didn’t ask you to fight with me. You can stay here if you don’t want to and if you are worried about your life. Don’t you remember that once I am my mother’s trusted soldier? I killed hundreds of people, I nearly get killed, yet still alive. I can survive with this one too.” He said with confidence even though his heart was pounding hard and fast inside his ribcage.

“It’s not like that-”

“Sebastian, I’ll fight. I’ll lure them away. If you don’t want to come with me, then you can stay here.”

Sebastian’s eyes narrowed, menacing and said, “we’re brothers. I’ll fight with you. The two of us will fight together, I won’t leave you.”

Atlas’s heart rate fast, but he schooled his emotion. Lowered his head suppressing a smile. He can’t believed that it’s the first time that he breathe fine and he felt relieve just because the assurance that Sebastian gave him.

Brother. It tattooed in his mind. They are not brother by blood, but brother my love. Brother. It’s nice to have someone to rely on.

“It makes us three,” someone talked behind them and both Atlas and Sebastian turned their head to see the person behind.

Rile smiled and squinted his eyes after towards them. “You two always makes me feel that I am left behind, you two have a heart to heart talk-”

“Hey! Don’t forget to include me! I’m still here fuckers!” James run from the house with the laptop on his hand and he crushed Sebastian and Atlas.

“Fuck,” Atlas groaned. “Damn it, James! You’re so fucking heavy!” He complained, but he did not shooed James away, he let James crushed his body.

“He eat a lot-” Sebastian scoffed.

“He’s gaining weight,” Rile looked James head to toe.

“He’s starting to have a fats.” Atlas added.

“No way! For the record, I have the most toned muscles and I am the most handsome! Excuse me, do not let your jealousy possess your body.”

Atlas together with Sebastian and Rile sighed and shook their heads.

“Oh, come on. I know that face,” James pointed them. “It’s the face of jealous people. I know I am handsome, and I know that you are handsome too, my brothers, but among us I am the handsomest. Don’t you agree? If you don’t, well I’m very sorry but I am just stating the fuck-fact-shit!”

They all whipped their heads at James when James stumbled to his feet and he begun to work his fingers on his laptop. His face was panic, and eyes can’t focus.

“What happened?” Atlas asked, worried.

“Don’t you dare to prank us or else I’ll kick your ass-”

“They all fucking move from different places,” James didn’t tear off his eyes from the screen.

Because of curiosity and badly want to know what’s happening he grabbed James laptop and he watched what’s James been doing.

“What’s this?” He asked, confused.

“You can stole whatever you want from me but not my laptop,” James grabbed his laptop back and glared at Atlas.

“Jesus, I did not stole anything from you. I just grabbed it since you won’t tell me what’s happening.” Atlas can’t help but rolled his eyes.

“Yeah, as I am saying, our enemies are moving simultaneously in different places,”

Atlas waited. He did not interfere or ask anything since he already knew that there’s a but next.

“But, they are all headed to one place,”

“What place?” Asked Sebastian.

James slowly looked up at them, horror covered his face and he then gazed at Atlas. “To your parents. They already knew that your parents are coming and now they are cornering them.”

“Fuck.”

                   * * * 

Sebastian strode inside Atlas’s room and he catches Atlas packing something-or should he say Atlas was hiding something.

“Where going before they capture your parents,” Sebastian spoke. Atlas jerked his head behind him and said. “A minute.”

He’s busy with some thing. From his back, Atlas felt someone come in his room, and he can tell who’s that person.

“Can you promise me something?” He said without looking behind.

Rile sighed, “another promises after you made us promised the other day?”

“Mhmm, just promise me,” Atlas stood straight, turned his body at his friend to face them.

Sebastian’s eyes narrowed at him but Atlas did not fluttered. His friends looked at each other before they sighed in unison.

“What is it?” Said Sebastian.

“This is the last thing I want you to do.” And he said what he wanted them to do after this war between them and the Underground-their worse nemesis they’ll face.

James broke inside, chest heaving. “Guys, let’s hurry! We don’t have enough time!”

With the looked they shared, they all hurried and grabbed their guns. Atlas seemed calmed, collected and perfect, he mover swiftly and horror didn’t show on his face-he’s used to face war, but today is different. He’s facing the enemies he’d worked for before. And he’ll fight for his parents-for his family, his friends, and of course for Race.

He promises to himself that once this war is done, he’ll come back to Race. He’ll beg if it’s needed or Race wanted him on his knees, he’ll obligate it wholeheartedly without complaints. He love that man so much and he’ll do everything to bring that man back to his life, even if it cause a days, a months, a year, or even a decade or perhaps in their other life.

He’ll lose without Race. Right now, his strength is only Race. He’ll survive and he’ll live. He still have to see Race. Desperate to see and touch that man. So damned missed that man.

Atlas stopped. “I have one order,” his friends stopped to looked at him with serious face, they are all waiting. “Live.” And they all went to the war.

Minutes or perhaps an hour later, they already faced their enemies, some of them are tailing them, shooting their car. Luckily, they have a bulletproof car.

“Sebastian,” Atlas called.

“I’ll lure them-”

“Kill them all, do not leave any survivors behind.”

“Roger that.” Atlas heard Sebastian stepped on the gas.

“Sebastian turned left,” James announced.

Sebastian and Rile are on the other car, while him and James in the other.

Some of the enemies did not tailed Sebastian, some of them continued tailing their car shooting them behind. Gunshots everywhere. They are just lucky that they’re in the place where there’s no civilian around.

“Can you aim?” He asked while maneuvering the car, he will try to lure away the enemies.

They will sticked to their plan. They will bring down each of their enemies as fast as they can.

“What the fuck? You just insulted me, Atlas,” said James dramatically.

Atlas can’t help but rolled his eyes as he turned left. “Can you aim while insulted?”

“I can’t believe you!” James groaned, grabbed his gun opened the window and he aimed to the enemies on their tail.

“Pull the trigger-”

“Stop insulting me, I know what to do,” he muttered. From the side mirror, Atlas saw James pulled the trigger and he shot.

“One down,”

“Go, finish them, James.”

“Roger, Sir.” Gunshots filled the air as they continued circling around the area just to lure the enemies away from where his parents are going to land.

“Shit!” James swore.

“Are you alright?” Atlas asked worriedly, looking at the rearview mirror to see what happened to James.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Atlas did not considered it. Fine but James’s bleeding, he was shot in the arm.

“Can you-”

“I can aim,” James cuts him off and he’s back aiming at the enemies behind. “Just keep your eyes on the road!”

Fine.

Atlas stepped on the gas. As much as possible, they need to kill his enemies. He need to see his parents before his enemies captures them. Atlas need to hide his parents before the Underground kill them slowly.

“Hell, yeah!” James exclaimed. “You can’t fucking kill me!” He closed the window again and fell on hi back with a heaving chest.

Atlas noticed the blood dripped on James arm. “Wrap up your wounds,” he ordered.

“I can endure-”

“I know just wrap your wounds before you lost much blood.”

James did not complained anymore, he grabbed a cloth and wrapped his arm.

“All clear,” Sebastian called from the other line. “Let’s go and clear them all.”

Atlas agreed and they trapped their enemies, killed them all until no he did see no one breathe.

Never leave any survivors behind. Kill them all. It makes if ruthless and heartless, he knew it. He’s not kind nor gentle, he’s dangerous, deadly and ruthless. He’ll kill for his love ones, he’ll do everything to keep them safe.

“We’re near!” James exclaimed excitedly but Atlas can see the fear in his eyes.

“We need to hurry,” Sebastian talked with a tight voice. “A riot is approaching nearby.”

“How many?”

“I lost count,” Sebastian answered.

“Two dozens,” Rile said. “Fuck no, more than two dozens.”

Atlas did not hesitate but stepped on the gas. He drove fast as he can to get his parents as soon as possible.

Fear clouded his mind but he masked it away. His hands tighten around the steering wheel, jaw clenching.

“Go, get your parents, we’ll face them,”

“Fuck no,” Atlas shouted. “We’ll face them together.”

“For fuck’s sake, Atlas. Do us some favor. If you want your parents safe before they have a chance to capture them and perhaps make them suffer then go get them and we’ll handle the rest.”

Atlas’s jaw clenched, emotions flooded his mind. He can’t let his friends sacrifice their life because of them.

“Give me a minute, I’ll be right back.” He promised.

“Go, come back fast, so we can kill them all.”

“Please, don’t die. I hate to be an only handsome.” Even if they are in the middle of the war, he still jested just to ease the tension and to ease the fear they felt right now.

All of them didn’t know what will happen today. They will die in the hands of the enemies or they will live longer if they’ll kill their enemies.

“You talk shits,”

Atlas laughed and he drove fast towards his parents. They did not know what’s happening here, they also did not know that enemies are not ready to kill them once they set their foot on the ground.

“It’s them!” James exclaimed pointing his finger to the couple who hopped in the car. “Jesus, they are not even cautious!”

“They are idiots,” Atlas retorted.

“Yeah like you.” Atlas glared towards him, he then stepped on the gas.

“We should hide them faster, so we can help them out there,”

“Don’t command me, I know what-” gunshot flared.

“Shit, shit, shit! They are coming!” Grabbing his gun, James opened the window and he shot directly at the enemies.

Atlas called. “Sebastian!”

“Alive.”

Atlas let a heavy breathe after he heard his friend. Alive. Alive. Not dead, but alive.

“But, we are being surrounded by them. Shits really happening.”

Atlas did not hesitate, he drove fast and he blocked the car that his parents hopped in.

He stepped out his car, with his gun on his hand, he pointed the gun on the car.

“Fucking come out!” He exclaimed, eyes darkened. “You made my life hell, get out before the enemies killed us all.”

Seconds later, his father showed up, holding his hands on the air.

“Son-”

“Now, I am your son,” Atlas laughed, grabbed his father on his collar. “Go fucking move! I will not say it again! Fucking move!” He shouted like lightning stroke in the sky.

He pointed his mother who’s trembling with fear. “You,” they are weak. “Fucking move your ass, I will not repeat it.”

His mother nodded her head he head out, hands trembling with fear. She wanted to say something, but Atlas did not let her to speak not wanted to hear her voice.

“Fucking hop inside,” when his mother hopped inside, he get in and drove fast as the enemies approaching.

“Son, what’s happening?”

Atlas actually laughed, evilly. “You did not fucking know? Do not fucking play dumb when you knew that it was all your fault that this happened!”

“Son, I’m-”

“Shut the fuck up, I am not your fucking son anymore.” He said, voice hard and cold.

“Sebastian, how’s there?” He asked.

“Go, drive fast, I’ll take them all for you. Hide them fast.”

“Noted.” Atlas didn’t even looked back, he drove fast and he trusted Sebastian with all his life that he’ll take care the rest while he’ll hide his parents.

After a minutes of losing the enemies, they finally have a way to hide his parents. Finally lose their enemies.

When they arrived at the place he’ll hide his parents. He immediately looked behind and glared at his parents.

“Fucking go out, hide inside and do not think to run away again, because once I knew that you run away again, I’ll wholeheartedly give you to the enemies and let them kill both of you,” his father and mother flinched because of the harshness words he just said, but Atlas did not regret it.

His intention was really want to scared his parents.

“Go inside, hide and do not make mistakes,”

His parents nodded fast and went out fast and strode inside the house.

“James,” he looked at James who arched his brow. “Stay here, update me what’s happening here. Do not let them slip again.”

“But-”

“I trust you. Now, go out and I’ll have work to be done. Keep your eyes on them.”

James nodded and grabbed his laptop. Atlas just watched James went inside the house. Atlas made sure that the enemies can’t track them here, it’s the safest place to hide.

When Atlas was about to maneuvered his car when his phone chimed. He answered it immediately without thinking.

“Seb-”

“Glad you pick up the phone, Atlas,”

Shit. That voice.

Atlas stiffen.

“What do you want?” His voice sterner.

“Nothing from you, but you fucked up my plans and now considered it that you are not involve into your parents debt.”

“Fuck you. I don’t have time for your shits. Do you realized that you lose much allies?”

The founder of the Underground laughed. “Do you realized that you fucking lose?”

“Me? Lose? No, you fucking lose-”

Someone shrieked from the other line. A shout of pain and cry from behind, a whipped he just heard from behind.

That voice. He can’t be wrong. He knew who owns that voice.

The founder laughed so hard when Atlas went rigid.

“What the fuck did you do?” His voice hard, eyes darken and hands tightening around the steering wheel.

“Come and see. Your lover is waiting for you .”

Shit.

KABANATA 48

Race kept on glaring towards the man who wore a black three piece suit, from where Race was standing he can tell that the man held an authorization, he had a power amongst the other.

“Hey, I tell you stop doing that,” the man pointed his finger at him.

“What are planning to do to us?” Even though Race was scared and really quivered because of all this happened.

The man stared at him, he can’t tell who’s the man, Race can’t see because the man was wearing a mask, he only can see was the his eyes.

Yet, Race can tell that this man was very dangerous.

“Mhmm, you can chill, okay? It’s not you what I need,” he smirked and his gaze moved beside him.

Bridgette trembled in fears.

“What will happen if he finds out that I got his lover ?”

Race looked at the man then back to Bridgette, and he looked at the man again, confused.

Lover?

Bridgette’s boyfriend? What? Why—

“Leave him alone! I don’t know why are you doing this—”

Bridgette’s mouth shut as the man approached him like a predator ready to eat his prey.

“Leave him alone? Mhmm, I think I can’t do that—”

“W-Why?! He’s innocent!”

In a second, the man bursted a laughed. His hands on his stomach while his laughter echoed around the room.

Just like what Race imagined. They brought Race and Bridgette into a place like everyone imagined. A place with full of torture tools—a tools for killing. It’s everywhere. Dangerous.

The man tilt Bridgette’s chin and said, “Oh, darling, your boyfriend is ain’t innocent. He killed hundreds of people for me—FOR ME. But he defy me, surely he’ll be punish.” He stood up and looked down at them. “If your boyfriend will not show up,” Race saw his smile that he didn’t see before. A smile that can make a person tremble in fear.

Who is he?

Race’s gaze torn from the man as he watched a man running towards them. He said something to the man. The man with a mask clenched his jaw and veins are showing from his arms.

“Call him,” he ordered.

“Yes, boss!”

It’s clear, he’s the boss. Huis aura can tell that he ordered everyone’s around and he held a stronger power.

“Glad you pick up the phone, Atlas,”

Race was stunned after he heard the name. Atlas? No it can be. It’s not his Atlas. Atlas didn’t know this fucking and crazy bastard. It’s not his Atlas. Perhaps, they have the same name.

It’s not my Atlas. No.

But why does Race was scared and he can felt the adrenaline rushinh down to his body. He went cold after he heard his name. It’s almost a months passed after Atlas and him end up between them.

Yet, he still looking for his Atlas. He kept on wishing that Atlas will show up to his door and take all what’s he had said when they are in the café. Race said thay he didn’t want to see Atlas again, but he day passed, and it turns into a months, but he still craved for Atlas. He missed that man so much.

He’s still talking with someone over the phone, perhaps that someone annoyed him because Race can see the veins on the man’s temple. “Nothing from you, but you fucked up my plans and now considered it that you are not involve into your parents debt.”

“Do you realized that you fucking lose?”

The man’s aura changed in a second, even though Race can’t see because of the mask, but he felt the tension.

And just like that Race didn’t saw it coming. The man grabbed Bridgette’s throat.

Bridgette’s cried echoed around, she fough, she tried to kicked but the man was stronger.

“Please, stop!” Race begged. “Please! Please!” He cried as he saw Bridgette’s slowly losing her color. “Please, fucking stop!”

The man with a mask smirked and said over the phone, “Come and see. Your lover is waiting for you.”

After he hung up the call, he looked at them.

“This is his fault, he dragged you to his fucking mess, and now he’s defying me and I really hate it!” He threw Bridgette on the wall.

“Bridge!” Race called her as Bridgette coughed and reached for her breathe.

“I’m—I-I’m fine…”

No you’re not! He almost kill you!

Race glared at the man, hopefully that his stare will kill the man.

“Aw, you’re so cute little puppy,” he patted Race’s head. “If you keep on doing that I’ll tear your eyeball myself.”

He then turned his back and started walking away, leaving him and Bridgette alone in the cold, and very dangerous place he’d ever seen.

Race can’t help but wondered who—how many people punished here. How many people they tortured here. How many people die here—in this place where they’re held captive.

“Are we going to die?”

Race whipped his head at Bridgette and saw tears streaming down her face, seconds later she sobbed really hard and loud.

“I-I do’nt…I don’t want to die… I can’t—I—”

“I’m not letting that to happen, Bridge,” he assured, “we’ll escape.” That’s is what he hope for. He just wanted to ease the fear he felt earlier, that’s why he’s thinking something positive even though it’s possible to happen.

Who the fuck will going to save them? No one knows where they are, they didn’t know who are those people who captured them. They are just walking back home from university when a car stopped and pulled them inside, blind folded them and one thing Race knew that they are kidnapped.

“I-I don’t want him to worry about me…”

Race smiled sadly, “you never told me that you have a boyfriend,”

“I-I’m…” Bridgette lowered her head and added, “I’m so s-sorry…”

“Is there anything else that you’re keeping from me?”

Bridgette can’t meet his eyes, she kept on averting her eyes like she’s afraid to say it aloud.

“It’s fine not to tell me today. We should plan to escape—”

“I’m pregnant .”

Race’s world stopped as he stared at Bridgette.

“What?” He asked, shocked.

She covered her eyes as she cried harder this time, her cry echoed around the room. Her shoulder trembled.

“I-I’m two months p-pregnant, R-Race,”

Shit.

“Did he knows?”

“He knew… he’s happy and he promised thay he will take care of me and the baby,” Bridgette looked at him, her eyes are red from crying. “What am I going to do? We’re in t-this situation—” she looked around and gulped. “I-I don’t want to die. I want to see my baby… I want to live with my family.”

Race’s minds ached as he watched Bridgette. The fear grows bigger and bigger inside him, it’s like the phobia he felt today claimed his entire body and nothing left to him.

What am I going to do? Shit really happen. Shit.

“R-Race… What if they’ll kill us here? What if they will torture us before theu kill us? What about my baby? What about my baby? I can’t let my baby die, ny baby didn’t deserve this, Race…” Bridgette kept on crying while Race tried to think a better plan to escape, but it just made his mind ached.

“We’ll escape, Bridge. You’ll live happily with your family. I promise you that, I’ll protect you,”

Bridgette shook her head, she moved closer. She can’t touch Race because their hands were tied.

“Don’t push yourself too much, Race… Your heart—”

“Don’t worry about me. I’m fine,” I guess. Race smiled at her. “Don’t exhaust yourself, Bridge. I heard it’s bad for a pregnant to exhaust herself. Don’t worry too much, I’ll do everything to let you out of this place.”

Race smiled, trying to ease Bridgette’s worries. Race was right that it’s not good for her to exhaust herself, but he knew that it’s possible to escape here, yet he still said that. Perhaps, hundreds of people are waiting outside to kill them once they step their feet outside. He can’t risk Bridgette, she’s pregnant and he won’t let anything happen to her and her baby. Even though it will kill him, he’ll protect Bridgette.

“Are you alright? He threw you on the wall earlier,”

“I’m alright, it’s just my back is in pain right now.”

“You should tell me earlier thay you are pregnant. You never told me that you got a boyfriend and you have a baby with him.”

Bridgette said. “I’m sorry—”

The door swung opened and the man walked inside with two guys. The one he recognized earlier, while the other one was new.

“Saying your farewell already?”

He glared at the man. “Ops, didn’t I told you to stop looking at me like that? You’ll lose your eye if you do that again.”

“You don’t want me to look at you like that? You are a fucker! Who won’t look at you like that when you kidnapped us without any reason! Fucking let us go!”

His eyes darken.

Shit. I shouldn’t have defy him.

He stepped closer until he reached Race. He squatted and lift Race’s chins with his index finger and said, “you got a sharp tongue there, aren’t you?” He squeezed Race’s chin tighter.

“Race!” Bridgette exclaimed.

“Now I also want to cut your tongue,” even though he’s wearing a mask, Race knew that he’s smiling like an idiot and crary, psychotic person.

Race just felt a sharp object on his throat and the tip hit his skin just enough to made him bleed.

He tilted his head. “Or should I slit your throat, eh?”

He’s psychopath! Shit! Shit! Shit! I really shouldn’t have defy him where we can’t fight.

It’s very easy to kill Race right now seeing their situation. They are look like a sheep and while this psychopath man was the wolf, ready to eat them alive.

Race shouldn’t have defy him if he wanted to escape. He should pick his words right now or they might end up dead in a seconds.

“Are you a third party?”

What the?

“My men saw you together, walking together so they thought to bring you too,” he stood up, playing the knife on his hand.

“What are you saying? Bridgette is my friend—”

“But you like her, eh?” He then moved his gaze towards Bridgette. “Are you cheating?”

“Race is my friend—”

“Mhm, did your boyfriend know about this? Or he did not know thay you are cheating behind his back?”

What the fuck he’s saying?

“Where is your boyfriend?” He changed the topic.

The man squatted in front of Bridgette, his knife on his hand, playing them while he’s staring into Bridgette’s eyes.

“H-He’s busy with his work—”

“Work?” He bursted laughed, “work? What’s his work? Killing people?”

Bridgette’s face become red. “He’s not a killer! My boyfriend did not kill anyone!”

“Mhmm,” he slowly dragged his knife from Bridgette’s belly up to her chest.

Race saw Bridgette’s trembling in horror, sweat streaming down her face, and she kept on gulping.

She’s pregnant.

“What will you do if you find out that your boyfriend killed hundreds of people? You did not know thay your boyfriend work for me for how many years? Yet, sadly he deceived me and defy me. He made me very angry and I am furious right now because he help my enemy escape. That’s makes him my enemy too!”

“S-Stop…”

“Stop what?”

Race wanted to kick him hard because he won’t stopped dragging his knife from Bridgette’s body.

“Stop saying that my boyfriend killed someone! He did not killed someone! He’s a good man, and he will never do that! Stop feeding me with a lies because I won’t listen to you! I know my boyfriend too well!” Bridgette exclaimed.

“Bridge—” Race’s eyes widen when the nan dig the knife in Bridgette’s shoulder.

The cry echoed the room, she shuddered and screamed.

“Fuck! Stop that! Fucking stop—” the man pointed the knife at him, staring ay him with a dark eye. It’s like Race was staring on death.

“Are you not going to shut your fucking mouth? I swear I’ll cut your throat or perhaps cut your tongue and let you eat your fucking tongue.”

He’s taken aback. He’s scared too, his heart pounding so hard inside his ribcage. He never felt this nervousness in his life, this was the kind of nervousness, a different one he felt when he saw Atlas walking away with him.

“D-Don’t hurt her, please… I’m begging you, don’t hurt her…” Begged. Begged. He’ll do anything to protect Bridgette.

“Are you suggesting that I should hurt you than her?”

Race glanced at Bridgette and smiled at her, mouthed ‘I’m alright, don’t cry.’.

“You really love this girl aren’t you?”

“She’s my friend—”

“Aw, I witnessed friend with benefits,”

Fuck. He’s fucking with them.

“Don’t hurt her, please. I’m begging you. Hurt me you like, just don’t hurt her,” he’s toughed, yet he’s shaking inside and wanted to cry. This is fucking terrifying.

Facing with death is not a joke, he can’t explain the horror he felt right now.

“Are you going to kill us?”

What a naive questions. Of course he’ll kill you!

“Yup!” He pointed his knife at Bridgette. “If her boyfriend will not show up, then I’ll kill you and send your dead or chopped body to him myself.”

Race cringed at what he heard. How can he said that with a straight face? Perhaps he already used to be like this, he killed hundreds of people.

He’s a professional killer.

“I-If that will happen, if he will not going to show up, please… don’t hurt her. You can kill me, torture me you like, do whatever you like, just don’t hurt her. Ler her escape.”

“Race…”

He smiled at Bridgette, “it’s alright, Bridge. I’m fine…”

“Mhmm, interesting. What a heroic story,” he stood up. “If that what you like then, I’ll granted your wish.”

“No, no, no! Race, don’t do this! Don’t—”

“Shh, I’m alright, don’t cry…” and he whispered enough for Bridgette to hear him. “The baby will cry too, Bridge.”

“You,” Race lifted his head and he watched the man called the other guy who he did not recognized. “You won’t mind if you fuck a guy, right?”

“No, sir. I preferred two gender,”

“Mhmm, just I thought,” the man turned his head at Race and grinned.

“What about him? Do you like to taste him? Aren’t you horny? He has a face, he’s handsome and perhaps he’s delicious, what do ya think?”

Race’s heart pounding hard. He can’t heard anyone’s voice anyone because his heart pounding hard and fast inside his ear. He did not saw anything, and everything become blurred. A vision comes into his mind. It’s him, tied in a chair and someone raped him.

No, no, no! Not again. Not this please. Not this. You can kill me, torture me you like, just not this. I hate this. I hate this. I don’t want this.

“I thought, sir. He’s young, perhaps he’s much delicious than the other guy I fucked.”

“Ohoo! Interesting!” Th psychopath clapped his both hand. “Then, I’ll give to you this guy, do whatever you like to him as he said earlier.”

No, no, no. Please, stop.

The guy smirk and he walked towards him and started stripping.

No, no, no! Please, no! Please, stop! Please, don’t do this to me! Please! Not this! No!

Race wanted to cry and scream, yet he can’t.

“Race! No! No! Don’t do this to him! Don’t you know that it is a crime to rape someone?! Please, don’t do this!”

Oh, right, he have someone to protect from this filthy psychopath people.

“Shhh, I’m fine, Bridge. I’m fine…I’m fine, I’m fine—”

Race watched the man slowly reaching for his zipper. After he unzipped his pants, the guy tugged them down.

Race closed his eyes. He won’t cry. He won’t let this guy see him cry.

The guy held his boxer and slowly tugging it down. The door opened, someone entered and gun fired.

“Touch what’s mine and you’re dead.”

That voice. Thay voice he wanted to hear this time. Perhaps he’s hallucinating. Perhaps he’s crazy because he heard him just now.

Race opened his eyes and he saw the man he missed so much. He saw the man he badly in love with. He saw the man. The only man he wanted to see right now. Perhaps he’s making an image to distract himself from horrifying situation.

I hope it’s true that you are here…

“I’m here, fucking let them go. It’s me who you wanted to see, right?”

Ahh… I’m not dreaming. He’s here in front of me. Handsome, calm, and collected.

Atlas .

CHAPTER 49

“Ah, the traitor is finally here…” Race watched the man slowly approaching Atlas, and Race’s heart beat every steps of the man. “Are you here to fetch your lover?”

Lover? Did he knew? Wait-

Race realized what does the man mean to say. Race remembered that he said to Bridgette that ‘what will happen to him if he knew that I got his lover?’, and Race come to an idea that the man didn’t know everything. The man thought that Bridgette and Atlas was a thing. They captured them and held them captive in this strange and horror place.

“Leave them alone,”

Race watched Atlas talked, very collected just like before and he’s calmed. He never shown fears, he stand there tough than anyone. He stand there in front of the man who Race feard with head held high. He’s not backing away. Atlas will not going to back away because of this.

Race didn’t realized that he slowly smiled at his reverie. He blinked when he realized that Atlas was staring at him longer, staring at his soul. There’s a longing in his eyes. There’s loneliness in his eyes. There’s relief in his eyes. A lot of emotions in his eyes as Atlas continued staring at Race.

“You hate your parents right? But why did you help them escape?” The man’s sharp voice really made Race’s shivered.

“I hate them so much for making my life hell. But therr are still my parents and I did not oath not to help them when they need me.” Atlas retorts was calmed.

Race wondered why Atlas was not afraid of this guy, and why does it seems like they knew each other?

“You know that I hate people who defy me-”

“And I hate people who never accept their defeat-”

The man’s laugh echoed. His head fall back as he laughed so hard.

“Me?! Defeat? Are you insane?!” He laughed again while looking at Atlas, perhaps he thought that Atlas was crazy to say that.

Race didn’t understand what they are talking about, and when he looked on his side it’s like he’s not alone. Bridgette also was confused, she watched them with a confused looked. When she whipped her head to his direction Bridgette whispered, “what’s on earth is happening today?”

“I have no idea,” Race shrugged his shoulder. “But I think that man thought that you are Atlas’s girlfriend.” There’s no jealousy in his voice, but all confusion.

“What? W-What made you-”

Race stared at her and said, “remember when the man said about your lover? He’ll come to save you? And now Atlas arrived and he said that Atlas was here to fetch his lover which is you-”

“I’m not, you are-” Bridgette’s eyes slowly widen. Race thought that she already understand. “Oh, I remembered thay you two already broke up months ago, so it didn’t counts that you two are lover.”

He faced palm and chose to focus on the two man talking in front of them. It’s like they are waiting for each other to grab a gun and kill each other in a second.

Race stiffed.

“Hey, Race. What happened? Did I say something wrong-”

“No, no. I’m alright, I-I just…” He stared at Atlas.

He really missed this man so much. Race didn’t thought that he’ll long for Atlas’s attention and love and his touch. He longed for this man for a months. Even though he kept on telling that he really hate this guy and didn’t want to see him again because he was broke-because Atlas chose to left. Race still want Atlas. He still craved for this man.

And thinking that the man he love, and the man who stayed with him for a years killed hundreds of people made him shivered. His mind can’t focused, his mind was in chaos. Race’s heart won’t stopped pounding so fast because of the idea thay Atlas killed hundreds of people because of that man.

Race hesitated if he listen to the man’s said earlier of perhaps he will wait for Atlas to explain everything to him. Perhaps it’s not true right? The man just making a story to hate Atlas. Atlas won’t do that right? He won’t kill people. He’s a good man. He won’t do that.

Race thought that he’ll go crazy if he will continue thinking about this stuff. He wanted to ask questions right now, but looking at the two perhaps this time was not a best idea to ask.

But the thought of Atlas killed people made him felt the nauseous.

Perhaps he’ll stop thinking about it. He’ll wait for Atlas to explain himself. He have a reason right?

If Atlas wanted to talk to him. That’s the problem.

Race wanted to talk to Atlas about everything because he’s concerned and confused right now. Everything happened so fast in a blink of an eye. But, what if Atlas won’t talk to him and chose to leave again just like he did four months ago? What if Atlas didn’t want to see him nor talk to him?

The thought if it made Race quivered and felt a sharp pang in his heart.

“Let them go, you don’t need them-”

“Oh, come on!” The man rested his arm on Atlas’s shoulder. “I still need them. They hold dear to me, Atlas.”

Atlas didn’t say a word but his jaw clenched. Race watched him closely, his every move, and every breathe he took.

Slowly, the man turned his gaze at him, narrowish his eyes. “Don’t you mind to clarify a thing to me, eh? Earlier I was a little bit confused, ya know?”

His hearts pounded so hard the man can hear it, perhaps Atlas can hear it too.

“I have nothing to clarify -”

“You sure?” The man cut Atlas off. “Or perhaps I heard it wrong, eh?”

The man didn’t left his eyes at Race, it’s like he’s testing some theory of him. He’s crazy. Atals seems didn’t saw the way the man smiled at him like he knew something. It’s creepy, it made him shivered.

What’s wrong with that guy? Can he just stop asking, and set us free?

“Who’s this guy to you, my dear Atlas, mhm?” He’s referring to Race. “I’m sure that I heard it right. I’m not dead after all, Atlas. You said something terrible.”

Race didn’t mind what the man said, he was focused at Atlas who was clenching and unclenching his hands like he’s relaxing himself or more like stopping himself from doing something.

“Did I calculated wrong?” The man continued talking to himself, yet he didn’t tear off his eyes at Race.

He’s reading his emotions and expressions or perhaps he’s waiting for a show. Perhaps he’s waiting for Race to say something.

“Mhmm, I thought…” He slowly walked towards them and stopped in front of Bridgette who’s trembling with fear, horror showed in her eyes. “Are you Atlas’s lover? He’s your boyfriend, right?”

“Why does it matter to you-”

He grabbed Bridgette’s hair, tugging it up. “That’s not the right answer,” he smiled slowly, evily, and even deadly. “Who’s your boyfriend?”

“Why are you asking me that? You already knew who’s my boyfriend, right?”

Shit. Bridgette better think different answer!

Shit! Shit!

“Oh? Is that so?”

He smiled again but this time it’s a smile that almost made Race thought that perhaps he have a good side. But no, he just slapped Bridgette hard thay Bridgette head whipped to the other side-blood dripped from Bridgette’s lips as it trembled.

Race was about to move but someone stopped him from behind and it was one of the man’s henchmen.

“I’m expecting that you are the kind of person who listen, yet I think that you are hardheaded too, little miss.” He lifted Bridgette’s chin and his knife travelled down to her belly that made Bridgette’s sobbed.

“Oh? You’re crying now? Where’s your bravity? Where does it goes? Mhmm?”

Race was a reminder inside. He knew that if he do something he’ll got it worse, perhaps the man will do sometime to Bridgette and if that will happen he won’t forget himself. He already knew that he’s helpless. A nostalgic feeling. He already saw this, he already felt this feeling. The feeling when you can’t do anything to save yourself. The feeling of helplessness and useless. He felt this before when it happened to him.

He wanted to shout, but he will get the situation worse. He thought of himself as useless man because he can’t even protect his friend from this creepy man. H wanted to do something, but how? He’s tied up and he can’t move. He didn’t even knew how to fight. If he do something, he might end up dead right now, or perhaps Bridgette and her baby.

“Do you want me to teach you a lesson, little miss? I think the school was lacking since you can’t even answer a simple question. It’s simple, yet it’s hard to answer. Why is it, little miss?”

He fucking laughed so hard, he didn’t stopped touching the tips of his knife from Bridgette’s body.

“Or do you want me to be your teacher, eh? Do you want me to be your professor? I’m a good teacher, ya know?”

Damn him!

Race can’t count how many times he curse inside. He swore to kill that man. He’s not even a human! How can he do this to them? Why does he behave like this?

“G-Get lose you creepy monster-”

His eyes darken and he tighten the gripped on his knife. “Ohooo~ you are brave enough! I like that! Perhaps you’re ready to face your death because I will love to kill you.”

No. No. No.

He’s playing with his knife and Bridgette won’t stopped trembling, even though she looked tough and brave, but she was about to cry. Race kne that Bridgette was worried and petrified for the sake of her child.

“Please, stop…” This time, he won’t be useless anymore. He’s done being useless. He’s done being feeling hopeless and helpless. He wanted to do something, to save Bridgette even though it was the wrong idea.

The man gaze at him. “Stop?”

“Stop… I wanted you to stop. Please, don’t hurt her, please. I’m begging you. You can do anything to me, but don’t hurt her. Set her free and I will be your… dog or perhaps your toy. You can do anything to me, just don’t do anything to her. Please, let her go. Please, set her free. I promise I will do anything for you just-”

“That’s bullshit!”

World stopped. Race can’t think any words. His eyes blurred when he looked at Atlas who’s standing in front of him, a gun pointed on the head of the guy.

“You know that the very stupid thing I heard today?”

Race’s lips wobbled. He can’t looked at Atlas right now.

Was that a stupid move? Is it wrong to say it? To save your friend?

He can’t face Atlas right now. He will get hurt when he looked at him.

“Don’t fucking say thay again, Race. I hate it, it’s so fucking stupid,”

How can he say that to me?

“Oh? What’s the matter? Why the two of you are on quarrel?” He’s making fun of them. “Oh? If my hunch is right… this little miss was not your girlfriend, but this guy here!”

Race went still. He slowly looked at Atlas to see his reaction, but he’s not looking on his way. He’s looking at the man.

“Oh, God!” He stood up and faced Atlas, he’s not scared at all even though a gun was pointed at his head. “Is it really you, Atlas? You and this guy? Oh, so fucking disgusting! Did you really love this guy-oh! I knew it! It’s not love, but lust! You’re jusy using this guy, right? So you can satisfy your needs? Mhmm, damn! I’m so right! Fucking genius!”

Look at me. Look at me, Atlas. Look at me. Tell me that you did not chose me because of lust. Tell me you love me. Tell me you are not disgusted by me. Tell me everything. Do not lie.

Look at me. Look at me. Look at me .

Race was trembling so hard, he’s waiting for Atlas to look at him. He badly want to know that Atlas was not choosing him just because of lust, but because he love Race.

But, why does it made Race nervous so bad? He want to vomit because something was wrong in his stomach.

He’s not disgusted by me.

Race wanted to cry. Atlas did not say anything. He did not deny it nor confirm it. It made Race worried to bad, he wanted to know so bad.

“Oh, come on! How does this guy taste like? Are you really thay horny? Or perhaps you’re just exploring again? Oh, I knew you love to explore so much when it comes to your need, Atlas! You’ve work for me for manu years and I knew my people! You fucked someone and then you leave, that’s how you like it, right? You won’t settle for someone…like him.”

Punch me. Can someone punch me.

Race’s heart was throbbing, he kept on rubbing his chest since he felt something inside tearing apart.

Rubbed. Rubbed. Rubbed. Rubbed.

Shit. The pain won’t go away. It keeps on tearing me! It hurts like hell.

“I did not know that you have this kind of kink-”

“You’re too loud, aren’t you?” Atlas tilted his head on the other side. “You’re talking here like shit, but did you know that you have lost your people? There no one left here, they already met their ends.”

The man eyes widen, narrowing and in a second he seemed like a monster again.

“What the fuck did you do?”

Atlas shrugged his shoulder, “just how you teach me. Aren’t you a good teacher? Mhmm, or should I say you teach me how to paint?”

Race was speechless. He didn’t saw this side of Atlas. He always saw a gentle, sweet, clingy and a caring side of him. But this? Race thought that he really don’t know this man. He really don’t know him. It hurts like hell.

“You fucker-”

“I know, I know. Go see them yourself,” he’s not going to put down his gun.

“I’ll kill you.”

“I know. I know.”

“Fucker -”

“I heard worse than that.”

“Sir-”

Five henchmen comes into view.

“They all dead!” The one announced looking at Atlas.

“You’ll pay for this-” the man did not finished what he was about to say when another man approached and whispered something that put a smile on the man’s lips.

“Mhmm, you won this time, but I’ll promise that you’ll be dead soon, Atlas.”

When Atlas was about to pull the trigger, the man’s henchmen pointed their guns at Atlas.

“I’m sure you won’t pull that trigger since you don’t want to die yet,” he glanced at Race. “Have fun, Atlas.” And they strode off.

Race blinked at the door. He didn’t know what say. But as soon as he heard Bridgette sobbed and cry, he finally dragged back from his reverie.

“Bridge -”

Someone fall on his side.

Race froze.

Can’t breathe.

Can’t think clearly.

Heart was thrown hard and fast it hurts his heart so much.

He wanted to cry.

He wanted to hug this man, but it is hurt to look at Atlas’s eyes.

He missed Atlas.

He wanted to know everything.

Even if it hurts him.

“Atlas-”

“Can we stay like this for a while?” He whisper. “I missed you so much it kills me.”

Race’s tears slowly streaming down. “Yet you left me-”

“For your own good.”

“I’m not good at all. I’m hurt. I feel like I’m tearing apart…” Race tried his best not to broke his voice, but it didn’t go well.

“I’m hurt too. It kills me to see you like this and this is my fault…” Atlas rested his forehead on Race’s shoulder.

“Untie us,” he ordered.

“Mhmm,” was all Atlas said and did what he ordered. He untied Race firsy before Bridgette who won’t stopped crying.

Bridgette clung to him. “Race! Oh, God! You’re so stubborn! Don’t say thay again! Don’t do that again! I will hate you forever if you’ll get hurt because of me!” She buried her face on Race’s shoulder.

Race gently patted Bridgette’s back, “hush now, it’s not good for the baby.”

“Oh, right! I’m sorry! I-I…should go in the corner. I-I should let you two talk…”

Better.

Atlas and Race watched Bridge walked away to give them some space.

“I’m so sorry, you got involved in this mess because of me,”

“You better prepare a long and accurate explanation or you won’t see me again, Atlas.”

Atlas smiled at him and sit beside him.

“It’s not over yet,”

He looked at Atlas. “What do you mean by that?”

Atlas looked directly at his eyes. “I missed you-”

“Tell me what’s happening-”

“I love you-”

“Atlas-”

“Alot of good things happened to me when I met you.”

“I want your fucking explanation, Atlas. Reserve thay fucking heart-warming speech of yours later. I fucking want to hear your explanation because I am so confused right now. I have so many questions in my mind that I want to ask you. It hurts my mind to think of it, I just want you to explain everything to me, and pleas refrain from lying because I will kill you myself if you lie to me, Atlas. Trust me, I missed you but if I knew that you are lying to me, I won’t hesitate to leave you and never see you again.”

Race catches his own breathe after that.

Atlas smiled, his hands cupped his face and slowly moved his head closer to Race until their lips touched.

“I badlt want to kiss you so much… and I am not planning to lie to you, Race. I did not lie to you. I never did.”

CHAPTER 50

“I am the youngest in the four of us. My brother August was taught to manage the court since he’s the elder and the one who will replace my father in his position in the court. My sister Artemis was also taught to manage the court as if the second of my brother as well as Amber. Whenever there’s a transaction inside the country and outside the country. My parents always brought my siblings with them because that’s how they will end up. They taught to manage. On the other hand, in a young age I was taught to kill people.”

Race can’t held back his shocked.

It must be traumatizing for Atlas to experienced that kind of thing. What kind of parents are they?

“When my parents and my siblings was out of the country for a business trip, I was left to train. Martial arts and how to aim. I’m so young when I held a gun. At first I did not know whay to do with it, and was afraid to hold it. I saw guns before, and young me was afraid to hold it since I saw one of my teacher killed a person. At first they tortured them before they kill them slowly, and I was standing still, trembling with fear. I want to run thay day because it made me sick, I want to vomit, and I run away. After that, I was sicked and had a fever, and it last for three days straight my mother was angry, and father was furious that day. They force me to hold a gun, and that memories kept on taunting me. I was afraid, and I don’t want to killl people, but they force me to do it instead.

If I won’t do it, they will punish me instead. I hate to be punish because it’s hurt, and they won’t feed me for a days. I want to eat some delicious food too like my siblings did, but whenever I refuse to kill someone they will punish me and won’t let me eat. I’m so starved, and trembling because I have nothing left to me. I am weak. They teach me to be brave, but killing someone won’t made me one. They always told me that killing people will make me a brave one, and someday I will understand why killing makes people brave and it’s not wrong to kill. Yet, I am stubborn son. I did not listen to them, I refused to hold a gun, and for the first time my father slapped me with a gun I w refused to hold in front of my family, he exclaimed that I am a disgrace in the family, even a small thing is hard for me to do, my father told me that I am gay because I’m not brave enough to hold a gun.“

They’re sick. How can a parents do that to their child?

Atlas gulped before he continued, but he still didn’t meet Race’s eyes.

“I cried so hard in front of them because it’s so painful. I still can felt the gun on my face,” Atlas laughed, but Race taste the bitterness in Atlas’s voice. “Oh, I recall. After my parent left me crying, my sibling was there. They stood in front of me, I remembered Amber cried as she held me, while my brother can’t met my eyes, and there’s Artemis ranted how she hate our parents to do that to me. After that incident, I reflected and said to myself that I’m not gay as my father said to me. I promised to myself that I will be stronger. I promised to myself that I won’t cry anymore when my father beat me again. They punished me that night, every time they’re eating dinner my father ordered me to stand two meter distance and jusy watched them eat their dinner. They punished me for a days, I always watched them eat delicious food. My father will slapped me if I looked away, so I never did even though I was starving and want to eat some too.

I always watched my siblings treat well with my parents, they eat cakes, chocolates, they drinks fine wine… I want to eat cakes too, I want to eat chocolates too. One day, I was watching my siblings eating delicious food, I cried and begged my father. I begged him to feed me because I was starved. I begged him, aslo said that from now on I will train myself and I will be stronger, and brave as they want me to. I gave up because I was starved. I want to eat those delicious food too. After I begged, my father feed me, and I was so happy. In the morning, I woke up earlier to train, even though holding a gun will made me feel nauseous, I overcome my fear.“

Unconsciously, Race moved towards Atlas and held his hand. He did not say anything, but he listened carefully.

“After several training, my parents brought me to the underground, and made me ought to serve the understand, and I will not be able to get away from them because when you ought to the underground, not literally saying but you are married to the underground. I committed to serve the underground, and that’s where I’m working for how many years.”

Atlas looked at Race, but Race remained silent. He just waiting for Atlas to continue. Race felt like doesn’t want to interrupt Atlas at this moment.

“The Underground was established seven decades ago. All of the founder was unknown except for the one you encountered earlier. The Underground is what you imagined and what you saw on the action movies. We trade illegal guns, equipments to other counter. We have an illegal transactions, and we killed people who thought to against us. You see, I killed people at a young age, and I don’t know what to feel. At first, I felt guilty but years passed and I already used to kill people, and now I felt nothing. I did terrible things, I killed hundreds of people. I made them suffer because they ordered me to do so.

As years passed, I felt nausea every time I killed someone. It doesn’t feels right, there are times that I don’t feel like to obey their order, but if I don’t obey the court will suffer. My parent will suffer. You see, my parent managed one of the court under the Underground. My parents will do everything, so that the Underground will paid them more. One time, they ordered me to kill someone, a son of a two business tycoons. I didn’t know who was he that time, but when that man came out… I saw you came out. I’m not mistaken, you are the person that the underground and my parents want to kill just because your parents found out about the illegal transactions. I-I can’t think clearly that time, I’m trembling and I cannot pull the trigger.

I already knew you that time, we are friends that time. I called you…and told you to go away-to go away at that place, but when I glanced back, I already saw Sebastian ready to pulled the trigger, and I panicked. I don’t want you to die… I don’t want the person that God gave to me to die because that time you are time only person that I always think, and I don’t know why you always creep into my mind. You confused me all the time. But, I was too late, he alredy pulled the trigger when I tried to stopped, and minutes later I heard an ambulance, and I went crazy. I-I don’t know what do to, I won’t forgive myself if…if you will gone forever.

But thank God, this beautiful creature he gave to me was safe. But I can’t forgive myself. I still harmed you, and I am so coward to visit you that time. I am so coward to face to, I-I don’t have a face to show up. I’m so coward and I hate myself for that.“

Atlas covered his face with his both hands, his hands are trembling, and he breathe faster.

Race on the other hand was shocked to heard it. He didn’t know about this at all. He was so shocked, but he can’t bring himself to hate this man.

He remained silent.

“I’m so sorry I didn’t visit you after they run you to the hospital, I’m so coward that time. My parents heard about it. They knew that I failed this time, and it is my first time to failed my mission. All the mission they gave to me was always a success, but this time I did not succeed just because I knew deep down that I don’t want to lose you, and I want to keep you but am a coward to say it aloud to you. My father didn’t let it pass, he punishment me and Sebastian. He punished me with 500 whip, Sebastian also punished with 500. It was mt first time to punished like that, but I did not cry. I felt so hopeless that time, and you are the only one I thought that time. I felt so horrible, I hate my parents. I never hate them for my entire life, but after theu did horrible things to me, I don’t know anymore. Ever since, they did not treat me as their child, they only treat and saw me as their weapon.

That’s one of the reason why I cannot visit you because of my condition. I stayed in my bed for a days since my back will hurt every time I moved. It felt like hell, I hate them doing thay for me. Once I can stand and moved, I visited you right away, and that’s the day when you’ll be discharged. I hope you remembered that Rile, James, and Sebastian were there too. Until now, I can’t forgive myself. I’m such a terrible person, I can’t even protect you. I admit that I am a coward.“

His shoulder was shaking.

Race eyes widen.

He’s crying. Atlas is crying.

Race reached Atlas, and embraced him tightly.

“Don’t feel sorry, you are not a terrible person. I don’t know that your parents treat you that way…”

Race’s face fell. He can’t looked at Atlas anymore. He can’t stomach seeing Atlas crying.

Is that why Atlas doesn’t want to talk about his parents, and he doesn’t want me to meet his parents because they are terrible, they did not treat Atlas as their child.

Race wondered how Atlas might feel every time his parents treated him badly.

Race embraced him more. He doesn’t want to leave Atlas’s side, he wanted to stay with him. He wanted to stay with this man.

“A-As my feelings grow deeper towards you, and when I realized that I love you, and I don’t want you to hate me, and I don’t want you to feel sick towards, and I don’t want you to leave me because you are all I got beside my friend. I don’t want to lose this beautiful, and caring, and loving man that God gave me. I don’t want to lose you, so I told my parents that I will quit my job, I don’t want to stay there anymore. I want to be better for you, and quiting my job was the first step to be a better person. I know thay once you’ll know about me and my background you will hate, perhaps you will leave me, and don’t want to see me again. You’ll push me away, and you won’t look to me again.

I know that I am selfish. I don’t want you to leave me, but I also don’t want you to know about me. I’m a greedy bastard. I quit the job, but they won’t let me. They threatened me, they also hired a man to spy and followed after me, that’s was the day when I was distant towards you because I already knew that someone was following me.

One day, my parents told me that they will let me quit if I will obey their ordered. For you I will do everything. For you I’ll be a better person. I want to fit into your life, you see you are just like a light who came into my life, and I am a dark light who want to fit in to your life. How can I fit into your life when I was too dark? I did everything they told me, and my parents wanted me to retrieved a painting, when they say retrieved it meand ‘to stole something’. They wanted me to stole the painting in your home. I don’t know if they knew that you are the reason why I quit for just a coincidence. But, it’s hard for me to do it. I don’t want to stole that painting that your father like. It’s hard for me to do it, and they gave me a days to stole me.

If I cannot gave the painting to them, they won’t free me, they will punished me. At the end, I didn’t retrieved it, but my brother did it for me. He stole the painting, and was shoot by your father.“

Race was taken aback. Memories came into his mind. He realized everything. That is why Atlas was weird and was not with himself. He’s fight the urge to stole the painting or not. To hurt Race or to stole it.

“You should have just told me about it. You should have had trusted me with that things. You should have had told me everything. I will help you if you should have had tole me. If I only knew, Atlas.”

Atlas quivered, he shook his head.

“I-I…can’t…” he sobbed. “I can’t bring my self to tell you. I am a coward. It once creep into my mind, just told yoi everything, and you might help me, but I terrified what will you think after I told you about me…about everything.”

Race was hurting even though he was just listening to Atlas. His heart might bursted. It’s throbbing so hard, and fast. He was hurting for Atlas. He was so clueless. If he only knew, he will help Atlas, and perhaps he will there to support Atlas. He will be there to mend Atlas if he’s hurt.

Race wondered what Atlas felt every night. What he was thinking every night. Is he crying every night just like today? Atlas was just like a kid. This man is so precious, yet his parents did not see how precious he is.

“I’m so sorry, I was not there when you need me-”

Atlas slowly looked at him. His eyes was puffy and red.

“Why are you saying that? It’s me who should apologize after I left you,”

“Oh, I need an explanation with that. I need you to trust me this time… remember we already have had an exchange of hearts. I will suffer with you.”

Atlas’s cried again, and his lips trembled.

“My parents run away after they stole a money from the Underground. They are after my parents, but they hide so well, and was hard to find. I left because they followed me, my parents enemies became mine. I don’t want to endangered you, and that was the last option I have. You were just recovering from the trauma that happened to you, but it the news comes afterwards, and my friend needs me. I planned to go back to you, but thinhs become complicated. It’s a high risk to come and see you when my enemies was lurking around, so I stayed away. I tried to find my parents, but after two months I haven’t found them.

I’m so coward to call you, it’s so dangerous. I don’t want to engage you into my mess. After two months I showed up and broke up with you, I thought I’m going to die because my heart was in pain that time. I thought I stopped breathing after you pushed me away. It’s my fault anyway. I know you hate me for it, leaving you without saying anything, and then showed up after two months just to cut a ties with you, and disappear again for another two months, and now you were held captive because of me, I’m not cautious after all. Even though we already broke up, I still followed you like a stalker every day because I can’t bring myself not to see you.

I missed you every day. But, I will not engage you into this mess-“

“I’m already engage -”

Atlas sighed, “yeah, because of me.”

“Do not blame yourself. You did everything you thought was right. Even though your parents did a terrible things to you, but you still want to save them.”

“They are still my parents, and I have siblings. I don’t know where are they, but I hope they are safe,”

Race smiled and stared at Atlas. How can he unloved this man? It’s too hard to do. He’s so smitten with this man. Even though they were hurt, they still looked for each other.

“Please, trust me this time. No more secrets this time…” Race caress Atlas’s face.

“I did not lie to you… I promise I did not lie, even once…”

“I know,”

“I didn’t told you everything because I am a coward. I don’t want you to leave me because of my background. I just told you selective truths, but I did not lie. I won’t do that to you… and please remember that I trust you, I miss you, and I love you so much.”

A/N: One chapter left before the end😚 Akala ko ito na ang last chapter pero bitin eh, ehehe.

CHAPTER 51

Atlas felt that he finally breathe, it’s like it’s his first time to breathe for a long time. He was so tense earlier, he was worried, and was terrified of what Race might react after hearing his stories, but he worried for nothing.

Race embraced him as he cried. Race embraced him like he’s the precious thing in the world, and Race won’t let him go.

Race embraced him like he won’t let him go. Race embraced him like he did nothing wrong, like he’s not a terrible person. Ra

Race embraced him without fear. Race embraced him, and rock him back and forth saying he will stay in his side no matter what happens. Race embraced him like he did not killed people, like he did not do wrong to Race, like he did not kept secrets, and left Race.

Atlas love this feeling. The feeling of acceptance and being love, but at the same time he felt guilty because he dragged Race into his world. His world that a man like Race didn’t deserve to be there. But, what can he do? He’s selfish, he want Race. He want Rave to stay with him. He want Race to love him even though how twisted and how cruel his world are. He wanted to stay with this man.

“Uhm, this is the time where we need to run away, right?” Bridgette showed, didn’t even tried to hide her disgust when Atlas locked eyes with her.

Yep, she’s mad at him for leaving Race months ago. Atlas understand her well, a true friend will get mad in behald of you.

“Bridgette -”

“You don’t have to say sorry or to explain everything again to me,” Bridgette looked away, crossing her arms. “I heard everything…sorry, I didn’t mean to listen.”

Atlas looked at Race when he realized that Bridgette seemed so moody, she frequently rolled her eyes at Atlas.

“She’s pregnant-”

“What?!”

“I don’t know the symptoms, but I think mood swing is one of the symptoms.”

“Hey, why are you whispering?”

They both whipped their head where Bridgette was standing.

“Sorry, Bridge…” Atlas can’t help but to say sorry. He dragged Bridgette into his mess, and now Bridgette was kidnapping and pregnant.

Atlas won’t forgive himself if anything will happen to the baby and to Bridgette.

Atlas stood up, and he helped Race. “We need to hurry,”

“That’s what I’m trying to say. What if-”

“I’ll call my friend, they should be here now at this moment,” Atlas called Rile, they are still connect on their earpieace. “Rile,”

“This is bad,” that’s what Rile said to him. “I cannot contact, James. When I went to hideout to see if everything is alright, but no one’s there even your parents are not there anymore.”

Atlas’s heart pounded so hard. He felt Race squeezed his hands as if telling him to breathe because he’s been holder his breathe after he heard the news.

“Any idea where did they go?”

“I don’t know, but one thing that I am certain,” Atlas heard a sounds from the background. “They are not held captive by the Underground, perhaps they escaped before the founder arrived at the location.”

Atlas run his fingers to his hair. “What do you mean by that? Do you think that they escaped?”

“I’m certain. I’m here at the hideout where did you left your parents with James, and the house was fullnof bullet holes, it’s all over the house, but I saw nothing. No blood, but shattered things. I think they escaped… I hope they escaped, Atlas.”

Rile worried voice fill his ear. He’s worried about James condition.

“James knew everything, he escaped. They escaped…”

He took a deep breathe as he looked over Race who’s staring at him for a minutes…for the entire call.

“What about Sebastian? Why he’s not answering?”

Atlas started to moved, holding Race’s hands as they approached the door.

“I don’t know…”

Atlas moved cautiously. He stopped, and he signaled the two to stay behind him as he peek on the door to see a sign if someone was wait for them outside.

“I-I’m scared…” Bridgette whispered.

“Hold my hand, Bridge. I promise to protect you and the baby,” Race assured.

Atlas didn’t felt the jealousy, instead he felt pride.

“Stay here, I’ll check the perimeter,”

“Be careful.”

Atlas moved swiftly, holding his gun as he checked outside. It was quite, he only heard a chirping of birds, and insects around, but nothing suspicious. Though he won’t let his guard down jusy because he didn’t see anyone.

He come back where he left Race and told them to stay still, while he was finding another exit route.

“James is nowhere to be found,” Sebastian’s panting voice echoed.

“What?” Rile swore and Atlas froze on his feet.

“I saw the founder with his men, and your parents was with them, but I didn’t see any sign of James. He’s not with them-”

“Shit, shit, shit!” Atlas swore.

“We need to save Jamee,” Rile panicked.

“First we need to know where he is-”

“What if he’s dead?” Rile anxiously asked.

“No, not happening. He’s alive. He’s bolder than you think.” Atlas said, walking back to Race and grabbed his hand.

“What’s happening?” Race whispered.

“I’ll find James-”

Atlas cut Rile off. “We’ll find him together.”

“But, your parents, Atlas. They are in the hands of the Underground, whay if they will do something to them? Stop everything, Atlas before it’s too late. I’ll find James myself.”

“No, no, no! Rile-”

“Atlas, hurry before it’s too late. Leave James to me, don’t worry I’ll take care of myself.”

Atlas sighed, he can’t stop Rile.

“Okay, okay. Just be careful-”

Sebastian cut him off. “Guys, I received a cryptic message, and I think this James,”

Atlas looked both side, when he saw nothing they moved quickly. He need to find a safe place for Race and Bridgette, or perhaps he will send them home just for them to be safe.

“It says, ‘he’s fine. I escaped before they can see me. Don’t worry, I’ll keep your siblings safe, and I won’t fail this time.’. That’s what it says.”

“I think James knew where your siblings,”

Atlas’s took a deep breathe, silently praying for them.

“Good.” He nodded. “Sebastian,” Atlas called.

“I’m on my way. Don’t go there alone, Atlas,” a paused. “Is Race with you?”

Atlas looked behind him, and caught Race staring at him while squeezing his hand.

“Yup.”

“What are you going to do?”

“I’ll… I’ll take them home-somewhere where they’re safe from our enemies.”

“Leave them to me,” Rile said.

“Are you sure?” Asked Atlas, he felt Race squeezed his hand again, but he did not glanced behind.

“Yes. Coming.” Seconds later, Atlas heard a roaring sound of the engine.

Atlas saw his car, luckily his enemies did not crush it into pieces. He grabbed Race and Bridgette towards the car. Atlas opened the door, “go! Hop in!” He ordered.

Bridgette and Race moved quickly. They both seated on the back, while Atlas on the driver seat-quickly maneuver the car.

He said to the ear piece, “meet me on this block, Rile.” Atlas send the location.

“Got it.”

Atlas drove fast, he stepped on the gas.

“Are you going to leave us?” Race asked from behind.

“You’re going home, it’s not safe to stay here-”

“Where are you going?”

“Thet have my parents, I have to save them-”

“I’ll go with you,”

Atlas whipped his head behind, and Race panicked. “Damn it! Keep your head on the road!”

“Race, it’s not safe! You’ll go home with Bridgette -”

“Oh? So it’s safe for you?”

“Let’s not fight over this. I’ll just get my parents back and I’ll go home after-”

“Do you think that they will give your parents to you so easily? I don’t want you you to get hurt.”

Atlas can’t help but took a deep breathe as if it’ll makes him calm.

“Come on, you know that you can’t even aim. You can’t even hold a gun! What are you going to do if I hurt?” Atlas snapped. He just wanted Race to be safe. What’s happening today is not a children’s play.

“Yes, I know I am weak, I can’t hold a gun, and I can’t aim. But give me other job!”

“What job? It’s obvious that it’s dangerous-”

“I can stay in the car or somewhere safe, and when everything bad happens I’ll call a back up, I’ll call a cops to rescue.”

Atlas massaged the bridge of his nose. He turned left, and he saw Rile coming on the opposite.

“Race, you should understand that police is out of this mess. If they knew about this, everything will get complicated,” Atlas parked the car, and he looked at Race. “Please, listen to me, Race. Please… go home, and tell your parents to go to a safer place. Take care of yourself while I’m away. You are not weak, remember that. But this fight is not for you, this fight is for me and I need to get over with this mess. After this, when everything will be alright, I’ll go home-to you, and we’ll do everything on your bucket list, okay?”

Atlas smiled. Race just blinked his eyes.

He took a deeo breathe and he stepped out on the car. He meet Rile and patted his shoulder. “Take care both of them,” he said. “Please, bring them home safe.”

“I’ll make sure to bring them home safe-”

“Take care of yourself too, Rile,” Atlas patted Rile for the last time before he go back where Race stood outside the car.

“You’re not going anywhere -”

Atlas smiled, he reached Race’s face and caresses it with gentle. He slowly dragged his eyes up to meet Race’s eyes, and smiled again.

“Go home,” he whispered and their lips touched. “See you on the other side.” Atlas added after they break their kiss.

“Atlas-”

Atlas turned his back and started walking towards Rile’s car.

“Atlas-” Race called, yet Atlas seemed didn’t heard Race’s screams.

Atlas waved his hand. “See you later, Race!”

He’s waiting for Race to shout back-his best retort ‘see you never, Atlas’.

“I’ll be waiting for you…” That’s what he get.

He can’t help but smiled. Atlas hopped in the car and he maneuver it swiftly, he didn’t even spare Race a glanced as he stepped on the gas and drove faster as he can. He need to hurry before it’s too late. He need to save his parents before the founder do something terrible to them.

---

Atlas arrived at the Underground base, Sebastian arrived too.

“We’re outnumbered,”

“We are not here to fight,” Atlas said, looking on the surrounding. “We are here to negotiate.”

“You didn’t tell me that,”

They are talking in silent. They knew that there are listening device everywhere, and perhaps the founder is watching them right now walking confidently like they are not facing their worse enemy.

“I also thought about this while I’m driving,”

“Just refrain from doing anything stupid.” Sebastian was also looking for his surroundings. They knew that someone also watching them, ready to kill them if the founder will ordered them.

“Trust me, this is the stupid thing I’ve ever make.”

Sebastian whipped his head, almost breaking his neck.

“Atlas, don’t -”

“Quite, we’re here.”

Theu stopped when a dozen of men greeted them. They all wore a black suit, Atlas didn’t saw them earlier.

“We’re not here to fight,” he started. “We’re here to negotiate.” Atlas added.

“Go away before I’ll snap your neck,”

The threat didn’t make Atlas shivered. He just stood on his ground, calm and collected.

“I wanted to talk to the founder-”

“He’s busy-”

Atlas was so impatient, he grabbed his gun and pointed it to the man. The man in a black suit move swiftly, they also pointed their guns to them. On Atlas peripheral vision, he saw men hiding-aiming their guns at them.

Atlas tossed his gun. “Just like I said earlier, I’m not here to fight. I just wanted to talk to your boss.”

He heard Sebastian swore under his breathe.

“Go on, call your boss and tell him that Atlas Zubiaga is here.”

“I said-” he suddenly stopped, listening to his earpieace. After that, he looked at Atlas, glared at him and he nodded. “Follow me.”

Atlas felt Sebastian’s gaze beside him, yet he did not spare him a glance.

They followed the men in black suit in silent. They all entered in the elevator that will led them to the underground place.

Atlas heard about this place a long time ago, and this place was the last thing they wish to go. Even though Atlas felt that this is not right-that everything is not right.

Once the door opened, he first to stepped out, looking at his surroundings.

“This way,” the man walked first, leading them to a room.

Are they inside that room?

Atlas had this bad feeling, he didn’t heard anything from the room. Perhaps it’s a soundproof.

The man knocked three times before he opened it, “they’re here,” he held the door opened, stepped aside so that Atlas and Sebastian can enter.

“Well, well, well,” the founder greeted them, wiping the blood on his hands. “Welcome to the torture room.”

Atlas froze on his feet as he stared at the unmotivated body tied on the wall. They bathed with their own blood, they barely breathe, and they can’t even open their eyes.

Atlas clenched his fist, it trembled because of furious. He want to throw everything in this room, he want to shout, to scream. He want to grabbed his gun and kill this man in front of him.

“What do you think? Do you love my artwork?” He laughed as if he finds it pleasurable.

Well, for Atlas it’s not.

The color he only saw was all black with a mix of red.

“What did you do?” He asked, voice are low.

“I did the right thing!” He replied. Walked towards Atlas’s unmoving and weak body, he stopped in front of Atlas’s father and lift his chin. “I admit that your father was a tough man, he did not scream…so I did hurt your mother instead, and he waivered!”

Seeing the founder happy and laughing made Atlas want to kill him right now. His hands are trembling, and he’s fighting the urged to grabbed his gun.

“Free them,” Atlas ordered.

The founder stopped, slowly turned his head at Atlas’s direction. “What did you say?”

“Free them-”

“Do you think I will do-”

“Let’s negotiate,” Atlas walked towards the swivel chair and he sit. “Free them and I will serve you -”

“Oh, I don’t care if you won’t serve me as long as they pay their debt,” those dark eyes bored at Atlas, but Atlas did not shivered.

“I know your dirty little secrets,” Atlas said camly, “you are into boys, Sir.”

The founder seemed shocked, his eyes widen. He swallowed first before he stood and faced Atlas fully. “What are you going to do now? Tell the universe that I am gay?” He laughed, walkinh slowly towards Atlas. “What about you, Atlas? You’re gay too, right? That boy earlier is your toy.”

“I broke up with him months ago, he’s nothing to me,” Atlas was skillful regarding of hiding his emotions in front of the founder. “So, this is my suggestions,” Atlas did not looked away as he stared at the founder. “Free my parents, let Sebastian bring them to the hospital, on the other hand you can have me, dear founder. You can use me, you can use my body, you can do everything you want to my body as long as you will free my parents and you won’t touch those two you kidnapped.”

Sebastian whipped his head at Atlas’s direction, he didn’t even tried to hide the shcoked on his face. Sebastian was about to talk, but Atlas looked at him and nodded, silently saying that everything is fine.

“Oh, really? Do you think I buy that-”

“Of course! I won’t suggest this if I’m not certain. I knew a long time ago thay you desired me, you are after my body. But, I won’t give my body to you if you won’t ought not to hurt my family, and those students you kidnapped.”

Sebastian didn’t tried to hide his disgust. Atlas felt Sebastian was about to complain, but he stopped his friend before he said something.

Aylas knew that this is the ridiculous plan he made in his entire life, but he doesn’t have a choice. Fighting and battle with his enemies is not a better plan since Atlas already accept that they already lost. They are outnumbered, and if they tried to fight back perhaps everything will turn different, or perhaps it will get more complicated.

“Come on, decide now. My time is running-”

“That body of yours is mine now, Atlas-”

“Ought first that your won’t touch those people I told you earlier,” Atlas dark eyes stared at the founder.

“I ought not to touch any of those people-”

“Good,” Atlas stood up, he faced Sebastian and ordered, “get them, run them to the nearest hospital as soon as possible.”

Yet, Sebastian did not move. Atlas walked towards him and patted his shoulder, whispered, “I got this, everything will be alright. Go get my parents and call Rile for a help, and keep your promise, Sebastian.”

Protect my family, and Race for me.

That’s what Atlas’s favor for Sebastian.

“No, no. Are you crazy?” Sebastian hissed. “Everything is ridiculous, you shouldn’t decide-”

“Sebastian, get them. Go. Move. Now.”

Atlas turned his back, he can’t stared at Sebastian’s eye full of pain as if disappointed in his decision.

Nonetheless, Sebastian moved quickly, he untied Atlas’s parents. Atlas took a deep breathe when he saw that his parents are still alive, weak but still breathing.

“Rile is on his way, he will be here in a minutes,” Atlas said.

Sebastian didn’t glanced at him as he carry Atlas’s mother and he walked away.

Atlas sighed and faced the founder.

“My body is yours now,” but my heart always and forever belong to Race.

CHAPTER 52

Lying on the bed, Atlas stared on the ceiling-unblinking as the founder crawled to his body, kissing every inches of him.

He knew that the founder was gay since he saw the founder at the bar he often visit-the bar where he met Race. The bar where Race saved him from those gangsters.

Atlas smiler bitterly at the memories.

This is the better plan. This is better than fighting. Better than seeing his parents died slowly on the founder’s hands. Better than seeing Race hurt.

He knew that this is a coward move. Instead of fighting, he raised a white flag, surrendered.

It’s better to stay like this than seeing the person he love slowly disappearing.

He’s coward. He did it again. He left Race again because he’s coward to fight. He left Race again without saying anything.

Race perhaps will hate him more.

Atlas felt his manhood being sucked. He let the founder do everything in exchange of letting the person he cared safe and free.

After the second round, the founder tied him on the bed. He’s lying on his stomach, blindfolded as the founder whipped him many times. The founder saw it pleasurable. The founder love pain.

He whipped Atlas.

After that, he used Atlas’s body for his pleasure, until they already done 7 rounds. The founder collapse on the bed, unconscious.

Atlas slowly sat, he get off the bed and he grabbed the gun on his Jean’s pocket.

Slowly, he faced the founder, sleeping loudly on the bed. Atlas pointed his gun at the founder. He have nothing on his mind, but to kill this man who made them suffered.

He was about to pull the trigger when the door flung opened, the man saw Atlas pointing his gun at the founder, but before the man grabbed his gun, Atlas shoot him first.

The founder jerked, he stood up and grabbed the gun, but Atlas was faster than him.

“Go on, grab it and you’re dead,” he said, more like robot.

“Do you really think that you can kill me? One command and they will kill the people you care-”

“How can you command when you’re already dead?” Atlas tilted his head.

“Bullshit, Atlas-”

“Boss-” the man fell on the ground, dead.

“What’s happening?” The founder panicked, he picked up the gun but Atlas shoot him on the hand. “Fuck!” The founder screamed in pain. “I’ll fucking kill you-”

“Shut the fuck-”

“Boss, someone attacked us,” A voice from intercom.

“Who the fuck is that?!”

“Can’t count them, but someone I knew who’s leading the battalion- it’s Van.”

“What the-”

“Move and you’re dead-”

“Damn it, Atlas! I’ll fucking kill you!” He picks up his gun and he shoot Atlas.

Atlas didn’t dodged the bullet. He get hit on his shoulder, and on his stomach. Atlas pulled his trigger and he shoot the founder many times on the head, and he fell on the ground, bathe on his own blood.

“Fuck,” Atlas swore. “I’ve been waiting for this moment to kill you.” Atlas winched when his wounds hurt. He grabbed his pants and his shirt and quickly wore it.

Enduringly the pain he felt from his wounds, as he opened the door he was greeted by the gunshots filled in the air.

“Boss-” the man fell on the floor, he was shoot on the forehead.

Atlas continued walking until he reached the stair. He looked down and saw the commotion, dead body was everywhere, bathed with their own blood.

Atlas continued walking downstairs, he shoot someone who gets on his way and when he saw the underground’s mens.

He heard someone running on his way, he swiftly hide under the stair, waiting for the person to show up. As soon as he saw the man, he pointed his gun, the man turned his head as Atlas pull the triggered, until Atlas knew who was that person.

Race fell on the ground, screaming in pain as he clutched his shoulder. Atlas froze on his feet, he felt like his world crushed on him.

“Fuck,” he run as fast as he can and he kneel beside Race. “What-W-What are you…fuck!”

“Luckily, it’s just my shoulder-”

“What are you doing here?!” Atlas exclaimed.

He can feel his heart beating so fast that it is hard for him to breathe like he’s been running on a marathon for a days.

“You have wounds -”

“I-I might kill you! If I wasn’t planning on shooting you on your shoulder, you are dead by now!” Tears flowed down his cheeks as he hugged Race tightly. “I-I’m going to kill myself if I kill you accidentally. Don’t run like that again… you made m-my heart beat so fast. You m-made me worried… I’m so sorry. I-I…I didn’t thought that it was you. I-I-”

“I’m sorry, but I came here because I wanted to fight by your side,”

“How did you get here-” words died on Atlas’s mouth. “Did Rile take you -”

“I hopped in the car without him knowing, so don’t blame him,”

Atlas sighed and he stood up, helping Race.

“Your back…it’s bleeding…”

Atlas sighed. Now, he felt the pain on his back.

“It’s nothing serious-”

“What happened -” guns fired recklessly. It echoed around the room, shouting and crying filled the place.

“You need to get out of here-”

“Are you saying that I will leave you here?”

“Race, this is not the right time to fight. You need to listen to me,” Atlas gripped Race left shoulder while he covered his hand to Race right shoulder as the blood flowed like a river.

“You need to get to the hospital-”

“No-”

“RACE!” Atlas snapped, he didn’t meant to snapped at Race but he did not take it back, it’s better like this. It’s fine if Race was mad at him for shooting, his only need was to get Race out of this place.

“If you’re worried that I can’t aim, then you worried for nothing! I already…killed someone earlier.” Race’s hands trembled. “I’m fine…you can trust me, Atlas.”

“I trust you, but this…” Atlas showed the place. “You’re not suited in this place. You need to get back…you need to go. Listen to me, Race. Please, listen to me. Go home, please. Go home for me, just for me, please…” Atlas begged, if he need to kneel he will if it will make Race to go home.

“Atlas…” Race’s words muffled as the gunshots coming on their way.

“Hide!” Atlas grabbed Race and he shoved Race under the stairs. Atlas broke the door and he grabbed Race inside. “Stay here, I need to end this-”

“Atlas-”

“No more arguments. You’re going home. No more buts, Race. You are not child anymore, you must understand what I’m saying,” cruel but he need to say this. “You should understand me. This is not a child’s play, you should take this seriously. I know you just wanted to fight with me, but please try to understand the situation. Try to understand…” Atlas stared at Race’s eyes, pain showed in those beautiful eyes. “Don’t go out until I say so, I’ll be right back.” He said and he moved quickly.

Atlas closed the door, he left Race behind. He peek from where he hide, when he saw no one he get out and he run as fast as he can. He pulled the trigger when a man in a black suit appeared suddenly.

Atlas hide quickly as a riot comes in his way. Another gunshots filled in the air, as he peek from where he hide, some of the men was lying on the floor, bathr with their own blood.

Atlas did not hesitated, he shoot everyone on the head, and they all fell on the floor, unmoving-dead.

“Good job, Atlas,” a man figure appeared in Atlas’s sight. “Long time to see, dear friend.” Van smiled sweetly at him. Atlas did not hide his cringe.

He shook his head and he moved forward, and Van followed him.

“Sebastian asked for my help since you decided quickly without thinking-”

“What’s your relationship with my friend?” Atlas threw his gun and he grabbed another from the dead man on the floor, he checked the bullets and he pulled the trigger.

“Friends-friends,”

Atlas can’t help but roller his eyes. He did not ask further since this guy won’t answer him.

There are still a lot of enemies coming, some of Van’s men was dead but mostly of their enemies was also dead. Thanks to Van’s help, theu lessen their enemies.

“Anyways, why did you surrendered your body just to save those people? You should let them die, they are 50-50 they won’t -”

“Everyone of you won’t understand my decision, but when you are in my shoes you can’t decide property, my mind was blank and all I think was to save those people who I care about. It’s better to suffer alone than to see them suffer.”

Van clapped his hands proudly. “I am your fan-”

They startled when a body fell behind them. Both of them slowly turned around to see, but Atlas froze when he saw Race standing from a distance-holding firmly his guns, looking so calm and tough but his hands are shaking.

“We’re in the middle of the fight, you should not just there and talk about-”

Race fell on the floor. Atlas killed the man who shoot Race. He shoot him many times on the head before he run towards Race who’s crying in pain.

“Race-”

“I’m fine…” Atlas can’t moved, he was froze. He doesn’t know what to do seeing Race covered his stomach with his hands as the blood continued to flowed.

“Fuck! Fuck! I told you…shit!” He carry Race. Even though his body was aching, but he still tried his best to carry Race. He poured all of his strength just to carry Race and get him out of this place. “Fuck! Hold on, I’ll-” He didn’t know what to say.

“Leave them to me. I’ll kill them all,” Atlas just nodded at Van, he did not answered. He just walked away, carrying Race on his arms as he called for Rile.

“Where the fuck are you?!” He shouted.

“Your father -”

“Race was shoot! I need you here to save him! Come and get him here!” He panicked as Race shouted in pain.

“I’ll send someone to pick him up-”

“Please, come and treat him!”

Race send the location as he set Race on the ground, he made sure that no one will see them here.

Fucking fuck.

Atlas felt the pain on his back, it’s feels like it’s running around his body, but je endured it. He was shoot earlier on the shoulder and on his stomach, and it made it worse. It feels like his body was burning, and it becomes weaker every minute passed.

Fuck, hurry Rile!

“J-Just h-hold on, okay?” He don’t know what to say. He doesn’t know where to touch Race, he looked so fragile to Atlas.

Race was still screaming in pain, eyes closed, and his face showed all the pain he felt.

“You need to-” Atlas fell, he looked behind and killed who shoot him.

“Shit!” Atlas bathe with his own blood.

Luckily, he was jusy shoot in the arms two times. He felt the bullet burning on his flesh and it feels like it’s eating him alive. Every minute passed it get worse.

“A-Atlas-”

“I’m good. Stay. Hold on, Rile is coming.”

“Your blood-” Atlas looked down on his body. Blood all over his shirt, mixed from him and from Race, but he doesn’t mind it at all.

Minutes passed and Rile arrived with two others. They carry Race to the car, it’s a bullet proof car and they are armed.

“Take care of him -”

“Atlas, what the fuck?” Rile was afraid to touch him since he’s bathe with his own blood and Race’s blood.

“I’m good. I’m fine. I will survive…” his voice weaken. “Treat him. Don’t let him die…please. He’s all I have, I can’t stomach him seeing in pain. I won’t be able to survive if anything bad happens to him. Please, do everything you need to do…” Atlas held Rile hands and squeezed it as he begged.

“You need to come with us, you are badly hurt! How many bullet-”

“Four,” he answered. “One on my stomach, two in my arms and one on my shoulder.” And he added quickly. “And whipped on my back. The founder whipped me earlier as he pleasures himself.”

Rile’s jaw clenched. “I won’t leave you here-”

“I need to finish this-”

“You are wounded! They can end thie without your help! You already had enough-”

“Race-he collapsed….please, treat him. Please!”

“Fuck!” Rile turned his back.

Atlas was about to come back to the battle, but someone stopped him. He thought Rile already left, but he’s here standing in front of him.

“W-Where’s…” He felt dizzy.

“I already ordered them to treat, Race. He’s fine. He just collapsed, but it’s not serious. He will get better soon,”

“G-Go…you are not…” Atlas’s was dizzy, he can’t stand on his own feet anymore.

He felt nothing. He thought that he was gone numb. He jusy got a whipped from the founder, and he can still felt the blood flowing from his back. He got shoot on the stomach, shoulder and on his arms, and now it made him feel dizzy and he felt like he’s burning.

His body was already weak, even though how much he tried to open his eyes but he cannot open it. His knees was shaking and before he fell on the floor, Rile got him.

He heard Rile curse. “Fuck! You lose too much blood!” Rile panicked.

“I-I…can…” it’s hard to open his eyes anymore. His voice was weak and it was almost a whisper. “I-I’m fine…”

He felt he was lifted from the ground but his eyes was closed. He can’t keep conscious as his eyelids fell on their own. Atlas fought back, he wanted to stay awake. He wanted to stay. He cannot be weak. He wanted to be there. He wanted to stay beside Race. He wanted to be with Race forever.

“Fuck! I already call Sebastian and he’s coming here with a car! We need you to treat as much as possible! You lost so much blood and it weaken your body. Please, stay awake, Atlas. Please, hold on…please…” Rile’s voice broke and Atlas can’t hear him anymore.

It seemed like he was deaf, he can’t hear Rile.

Stay alive. Stay alive. Stay awake. Do not sleep.

I need to stay. I need to stay alive. I want to stay with him. I need to see the world with him. I want to travel around the world with him. I want to spend my life with him. I love, Race… I want to stay with him.

“Please…” treat him. Save him. Save Race.

He can’t open his mouth to say those things. Someone carry him inside the car, and someone was shouting.

“Atlas, stay alive! D-Don’t-”

“K-Keep your promise…do not…break y-your promise. P-Please-”

“What are you talking about?! You will live! Stay! Hold on! We are near!” Sebastian shouted at him as Rile held him tightly.

“R-Rile…save him. Save him…keep your promise, R-Rile. R-Remember what… I told you. Do it. Do it. D-Do not hesitate -”

“No! Fuck no! You will survive, you will…” tears started pouring on Rile’s eyes.

“S-Save him. P-Please, I’m begging you, save him. Save my family. S-Save…s-save Race.”

Atlas fought back. He wanted to stay awake. But every minute passed his body weaken. He cannot stay conscious, he felt like his body was surrendering. His body was giving up.

He can’t hold on anymore. He cannot stay awake for a long time anymore.

Save him. Save me. Save me. I want to live. I want to stay with him. I want to be with him. I want to stay beside Race. I want to spend every special occasion with him. I want to apologize to him. I want to say I love him.

Save me. Save me.

There’s a lot of things I want to say to him. There’s a lot of things I badly want him to see. I want to see him the world. I want him to understand me. I want him to see nt world.

I want to be with Race.

Please…

“Save me…” Atlas’s last word.

A/N: We come to an end! This is the last chapter of Exchange of Hearts! Epilogue next! Stay tuned! ^^,

EPILOGUE

Three months had already passed.

Three months without him. Three months of longing for him. Three months of missing him.

The day Race opened his eyes, he thought the person who will see was Atlas, but he was wrong all along. His father Isaiah told him that someone called him named Rile saying Race was shoot and sent a location, without even thinking Isaiah and Hades drove fast.

They arrived at Rile’s quarter, and there they saw Race lying on the bed-full of bandage. He was unconscious, but he’s breathing. They all worried about his heart condition. They went furious, why their son was shoot.

A man approached them and introduced himself that he’s one of the doctors in Rile’s quarter. He’s from another country and was the one who treated Race.

The doctor explained that Race was shoot on the stomach, the patient survived since they run Race to Rile’s quarter faster, so they treated him immediately as soon as Race arrived.

Isaiah was still furious thinking thay his son was shoot without them knowing what’s happening. But the doctor told them that there’s a fight between the court and the underground which was Isaiah and Hades didn’t understand.

As they wait for their son to woke up, hours later a man arrived, his cloth was full of blood that isn’t from him.

He formally introduced himself, and that man named Rile. He also said that he’s Atlas’s friend and explained everything what happened. Rile was sorry, and left. Rile came back immediately, wearing his lab coat and he explained to Isaiah and Hades about the heart donor.

Isaiah and Hades was shocked at what Rile’s said. They didn’t know that Race has a heart donor. At first, they didn’t trust Rile but as soon as Rile explained to them that there’s someone who donated his heart for Race.

Looking at Rile’s tired and red eyes, Rile was serious. At last, they signed the paper of the surgery. Isaiah asked Rile who’s the donor, but Rile chose to stay quiet and they prepared all they need for the heart transplant. They can’t perform the heart transplant at Rile’s quarter since they are lacking of the doctors and equipment, so they need to travel for two hours until they reached Rile’s biggest quarter.

The preparation took about 4 days until they finally performed the heart transplant with Race’s parents consent.

Now, Race’s healthy. He didn’t need to worry about his heart anymore since someone already donated a heart for him. Although, he need to visit Rile twice a week for a heart examination. His new heart is healthy and nothing to worry about.

Even though, he already have a healthy heart and he can do everything he wants without worrying about his heart, deep inside he’s not complete. Something was missing. Someone was missing.

The other day, when he visit Rile, he have a strength to asked Rile where was Atlas since it’s already three months, but he never saw Atlas’s shadow even once. Yet, Rile always invaded the answer as if he was afraid to answer it.

He hate that man. He always left Race without sayinh anything. Why would he left Race? What’s his problem? The last time they talked, they was fine. Atlas finally opened up freely to him, but suddenly Atlas was gone without a word.

Race asked Rile who’s his donor, but Rile always answered him that he promised to the heart donor that he won’t reveal his identity.

Race only knew that his donor was a man.

Today, he visit Rile even though he didn’t have an appointment. He wanted to clear something, he wanted to clear up his mind. There’s a hundreds of questions creeping into his mind, but he can’t answer it. He wanted to know everything.

Race knocked the door. Rile who opened the door didn’t hide the shocked in his eyes as he saw Race before him.

“Come in,” he said, stepping aside to give Race a space. After closing the door, he motioned Race to sit down. “What do I owe this visit? I’m not expecting you today since we already examined your heart the other day.”

When Race didn’t answered he continued. “Did you feel strange in your new heart?”

Race shook hi head. “I come here because I have a question,”

Rile stared at him for a while, he then swallowed and looked away.

“What is it then?”

Before asking, Race took a deep breathe. “What happened after the battle?”

As if the question cut Rile’s tongue.

“Why are you asking?”

“I asked first. Answer me, Rile.”

Rile stared.

“It’s over. We won. That’s it,” he stood up. “Did I answer your question?”

Race stared. “Who’s my donor?”

“I answered your question already the last time you asked me the same question, was it not enough for you?”

“Yes, since it was dull,” Race stood and faced. “I need you to tell me who’s my donor.”

“I told you-”

“Is it Atlas?” Race’s new heart throbbed as he asked the question. He was thinking about this a lot a months ago.

This question won’t leave his mind even though Rile already answered him the last time. He didn’t bought that answer, he want the name of the person who donated his heart for him.

And why all of the sudden he have a donor when years ago his parents couldn’t find a heart donor. But now someone willingly gave his heart for him. Does that mean that person knew Race? And why Rile knew about that person? Is that person was closed to him? Is that the reason why Rile couldn’t answer his question because it was hurt for him to answer? Is it because that person was so important to him? Is it because that person was his friend? Is it why Rile can’t answer him because it was Atlas all along who donated his heart for him?

Thinking of it, it made Race trembled. His hands was shaking as he waited for Rile to answer his question, but it seemed all his question already answered by Rile’s silent treatment.

Race fell on his feet. He hugged himself as he rubbed his chest over and over again. He felt the strange kind of pain inside his heart, like someone was reaping his heart into pieaces. He can’t hold his tears anymore. He let it flowed down his cheeks.

Is that why he didn’t saw Atlas as soon as he opened his eyes because he’s already gone?

Is this what Atlas meant on his exchanged of hearts? He literally gave his heart Race. Why would he did that? What comes into his mind? Did he thought about this before he told his friend that he will donate his heart to Race?

He’s so damn selfish, he didn’t even waited for Race to open his eyes. He decided by himself. What would Atlas felt while he was fighting?

As Race continued crying, Rile squatted before him. “R-Race -”

“Please, leave me alone… I-I want to be alone.” He pleaded.

Rile nodded twice before he left and Race was left inside crying as his heart broke in behalf of Atlas who sacrifices his life for Race. Atlas always decided without asking Race for a help. He always decided without thinking about himself.

Race remembered what Rile told him a month ago.

Rile told him that Atlas surrendered his body to the founder in exchanged of the freedom for the people he cared, that includes Atlas’s family, Atlas’s friends, Race and Race’s family. Atlas surrendered his body to the founder. He let the founder do everything he wanted to do on Atlas’s body.

Sebastian was there too when Atlas sacrifice himself so that they all have the freedom, so that the enemies will stopped hurting them.

Race felt the nauseous as he listened to Rile. He cannot stand to imagined Atlas suffered because he just wanted the people around him to be safe. Race can’t remember how much he cried that day after he heard everything. He also vomited the food he ate. He hoped that he was there to help Atlas, but Atlas was right all along. He can’t do anything.

Aside from that, he didn’t know what happened after the battle. They won’t tell him even though how much he pleaded.

Race sobbed and cried. He didn’t want to believe that Atlas donated his heart. How can he do that? Why he decided so quickly without even hesitating?

He really hate his life? Did Atlas not wanted to live longer with him?

Race can’t accept the fact that Atlas is already gone forever and he won’t come back after a months. He won’t be able to see Atlas.

He will live terribly forever without Atlas on his side. Even though he have Atlas’s heart, he cannot live in the fullest. He can’t live with happiness. He will carry the pain forever until he die.

Race cried almost an hour, his eyes was swollen and red from crying almost an hour. He’s still sitting on the floor, hugging his knees closer to his chest. He just stared on the wall, nothing comes into his mind. It’s all blank.

The door opened, and two footsteps comes in and stopped in front of him.

“Race, this is Sebastian,”

Without lifting his head, he said. “He’s gone…How can I tell him that I love him when he’s gone forever?” His voice broke.

“What did Rile told you?”

“He’s gone. He donated his heart to me…”

“Yes, it’s right,” unfamiliar man beside Sebastian spoke.

Race cried again.

“He loved you so much that’s why-” Sebastian smacked him.

“Race, be strong. You have a future ahead of you-”

“Yup! And you know what? Sebastian promised to Atlas that he will protect you with all his life. Also Atlas made Rile promised that he will be the one to operate your surgery. Atlas told Rile that he will give his heart to you willingly. That’s why you are here. Safe and sound because-”

“Shut up! That’s not what happened-”

“But it’s true that Atlas made you and Rile promised!”

“He’s so cruel,” Race buried his face between his knees and chest. “Why did he left me again? It’s fine if he left for a months, but he’s gone forever. How can I endure this? How can I cope up with this?”

“You know boy, Atlas gave his heart to you because he want you to continue, so don’t waste your time crying-”

“Can you fucking shut your mouth? You’re not helping!” Sebastian snapped at the unfamiliar guy.

Sebastian patted his shoulder, “Race-” he went silent and suddenly he stood up and left without a word.

Confused, Race lifted his head and turned his body to faced the door, but a figured blocked his view.

A very familiar face appeared before him.

Race gasped and eyes widen.

“W-Wha…W-Wha…” He can’t say a word. His mind was in chaos, he didn’t know what to think and what to say.

The man he grieved earlier was in front of him. Completed, calm, smiling, and dashing.

What’s happening? Why? Why I saw him? Am I hallucinating? Did I discover my new disease? Why I’m seeing him?

“I’m alive…breathing and fine,” as the man spoke, Race wanted to die. But not now. He wanted to know what’s happening.

Earlier, Rile told him that Atlas’s donated his heart. Race stopped. Did Rile really said that word-by-word?

“W-What’s happening? I-I…I thought…you were-”

“You thought that I donated my heart to you?” Atlas smiled. Race can’t produce a word, so Atlas continued.

Atlas seated before him, he held Race’s face, looking at Race with all his tender and gentle eyes. No one stared Race like Atlas stared at him.

“The first time I saw you on the club, I already fell. I just kept on denying it since it was my first time to feel this way towards a man. I kept on denying it. But I can’t even explain why I transferred into your school because all I want is to see you everyday.

I told to myself, that if I recognize my feelings to you I will confessed to you and I won’t let you go. I lust female before you came, but I felt something different that I never felt before the night I set my eyes on you. I thought it was all a lust, but the time goes by and my feeling went deeper - you went deeper into my soul and I gladly accepted you. I accepted my fate that I am gay. My father was right, I am a gay. But who cares? I love you so much.“

Race opened his mouth to say something, but nothing comes out, so he chose to closed it again.

“I am the happiest person when you confessed that you like me too. I was so worried because I thought you were disgusted to me, but I worried for nothing. You like me too and it made my heart throbbed it hurts my heart just seeing you.

When I said that my heart is all yours, I meant it. I gave my heart to you, and please don’t give it back to me because I won’t accept it. If you don’t want me anymore, if you don’t love me anymore, just threw my heart away, just don’t give it back to me. It’s all yours, you can do everything you want.

You are so important to me, and thinking of you being hurt, I want to hurt myself too. Thinking you was shoot because of me, I want to hurt myself too. I can’t think clearly that moment, my mind was clouded by different emotions. I can’t see clearly and I only think was you. I don’t know what to do if you will gone. I can’t survive even a single day. If you die, I will die with you. But sadly, I was hurt that day and I lost too much blood that’s why I fell unconscious, but my friend had a stock of blood same with my blood type. They brought me to the other facility, and there they treat me.

I slept for one week, and when I woke up I was not well so I need to stay on my bed. I planned to visit you once I regain my energy. After I regained my energy, my friend James called me that they have an emergency. James escaped in the middle of the battle after he knew where did my parents hide my siblings, so he left to search for them. He called me because they got an emergency. I flew to Macau and settled the emergency immediately. I was about to flew back home because I badly want to see you, but that day I bleed and I lost my consciousness. They brought me to the hospital, and my siblings won’t let me to flew back home.“

Atlas held Race’s hands and kissed every finger.

Race watched him closely as if Atlas will disappear if he’ll looked away.

He can’t believed that Atlas is alive. He’s in front of him. Breathing. Alive.

“The day when the founder had my parents, I surrendered myself and becomes the founder’s whore. I let him do everything on my body because he promised not to touch every one of you. I thought I will die that day, I willingly give my heart to you and I willingly accepted my death as I felt my body giving up. Imagined my shocked after I woke up. I woke up, that means I’m alive. I still have my heart. I asked Rile about you and said that my father donated his heart to you. He knew you all along, but said nothing. My father knew about you, about our relationship, but he kept it to himself. Luckily, his heart is healthy. It suited to you, that’s why he operate a surgery after your parents signed the paper.

I was in Macau when Rile called me and announced that you are safe and the operation was successful. I’m so happy that day that I cried almost an hour. I wanted to go home, I wanted to see you but my siblings won’t let me. They wanted me to stay there for a months. I stay on the bed for a weeks since they won’t let me to go home if I’m not fully recover.

After I recovered, I’m ready to flew back home but they pleaded me to stay for another two months. They wanted my help for their growing business. I can’t say no to them since I didn’t saw my siblings for a long time. I tried to call your number, but I cannot reached you. I thought you alreay forgot about me. I don’t know what my friends told you for you to cry like this. But, it was hurt thinking you don’t want me anymore-“

*I fucking love you, dummy!“ Race smacked Atlas hard as he cried again. “I thought you were dead! I thought you left me again! I thought you are gone forever!”

“How can I leave you? We still need to check the places you want to visit in your bucket list, right?” Atlas smiled as he took Race’s hands.

“Will you live with me?”

Race stared at the man in front of him, speechless.

“Are…you proposing to me?”

“Damn, yes,” Atlas replied, looking away. But his ears and neck was red. “I want to live with you in a house that it is just you and me.” He added.

Atlas looked on him again, waiting for his answer. When Race didn’t answer, he asked again.

“Will you live with me?”

With a sweetest smile on his face, Race answered. “Yes.”

THE END

A/N: Hello guys! Thank you for reading Race and Atlas’s story. Thank you for supporting me. I’ll be forever grateful.

I’m also open for feedbacks.

Started: August 1, 2023

Completed: July 2, 2024