TEASER

Yelena Altamonte wants to escape from a very old tradition of her family which is arranged-marriage. Because she knows it would stop her from achieving her dreams… it would also imprison her into unhappy marriage. Her frustrations pushed her towards Zacariel Guerrera–the man that she’s infatuated with… the very same man she dreams to marry one day. But the bitter truth is Guerreras don’t marry for business.

With her shattered heart, she loses her hope that she could escape from the nightmare. Not until she crosses paths with Zacariel again. Yelena realizes that she’s like a chain that wrapped around him… that will continue to temp him… till she could have him completely.

PROLOGUE

PROLOGUE

“Z-ZACARIEL…”

With her sweaty body, lips were parted seductively, and eyes were shut close, while writhing above the bed, Yelena couldn’t take another electrifying sensation anymore when Zacariel’s hot tongue glided sensually against the soft and sensitive part of her femininity.

Ang matinding kapangyarihan ng makamundong pagnanasa ay lumukob sa pagkatao niya nang walang kahirap-hirap. Ang init na nararanasan ay umaalab na parang apoy.

Ang bawat masasarap na daing na lumalabas sa bibig niya, ang maiinit na haplos sa katawan niya, at ang paraan kung paano siya angkinin ng nag-iisang lalaking bumihag sa batang puso niya, ang nagdala sa kanya sa paraiso na silang dalawa lamang ang tao.

His warm callous palms were place above her flat stomach. Her legs were wide apart that even though she wants to jail his head in between her thighs, she couldn’t. Because Zacariel tied both her foot to stay parted.

Her arms were tied above her head using his leather belt. But what thrilled her the most was the fact that she cannot see what he’s doing to her because he covered her eyes with a blindfold.

To be on that situation where she sees nothing but darkness, where the only sounds that she heard were her moans, where her body was in flame, and when she felt so much satisfaction even though she can’t move and can’t even have a hold of him, made her feel that she became a slave of him… she completely became a slave of darkness.

Another long moan echoed when he opened her folds using his fingers, then rubbed his tongue against her cl*t until she cried in pleasure. Hindi ito tumigil kahit na nanginig na ang mga hita niya at walang awat na lumabas ang katas na naipon sa kanyang puson.

“Ohh, p-please…” her voice was weak and tender as her body.

Yelena licked her lower lips. She felt hydrated already.

Zacariel has been in between her thighs for a long minutes now. She also reached her climax a couple of times, but he remained there, tasting everything that came from her.

His fingers then found her nipples. Marahan na pinaikot-ikot sa mga ’yon ang hinlalaki habang patuloy sa paghagod ang dila sa namiminitig niyang pagkababae. Kumikislot siya at napapasinghap dahil talagang damang dama ang ginagawa nito sa kanya.

“Do you have plan to get up? Or are you gonna stay in between my thighs forever?”

She felt his lips formed a smirk with her question.

Pagkatapos ng halik sa magkabilang hita niya ay gumapang ang labi nito sa may tiyan niya.

Humugot siya ng hangin sa dibdib at hinintay kung saan hihinto ang malambot na labi na ’yon.

“If I could stay in between your thighs forever, baby, I would,” he whispered sensually near the side of her lips.

Yelena pouted. She wants to kiss him but she tried not to because she didn’t want to taste herself on his lips.

Zacariel’s kisses went down on her jaw and neck.

Yelena craned and felt the fire inside her body building up again.

His hands found her boobs and massage them. And when his lips went down at the valley of her breast, she arched her body to tell him how much she wants him.

“I love your tits,” the sounds of his sexy voice gave her stomach butterflies.

“I know.”

She’s a confident girl. She knew how much Zacariel Guerrera likes her. It was always an advantage if you are aware if someone has a feelings for you. She could always use her charm to get whatever she wants, and Zacariel Guerrera is not an exception.

Yelena gasped when she felt her nipple inside his mouth. When he started sucking like a thirsty beast, her moans came out.

Bawat madiin at gigil na sipsip sa ut*ng niya ay nagpapasinghap sa kanya at nagbibigay ng hindi matatawaran na ligaya. Ang hapdi at sarap ay naghahalo.

Tuluyan na talaga siyang naging alipin ng dilim nang maramdaman ang walang ingat na pagragasa ng mala-bakal sa tigas na ari ng binata sa loob ng pagkababae niya.

Zacariel was kneeling in between her thighs, gripping her waist with his strong callous hands, while pumping hard and deep inside of her.

“Aahh… ahhh! Uhh!”

Every thrust was bringing her to the brim. She couldn’t handle the pleasure. His hard shaft and his low growls made her reached her climax easily. Taas at baba ang dibdib niya habang patuloy sa pag-araro si Zacariel sa pagkababae niya.

The way he grips on her waist would surely leave a red mark on her skin. But she don’t mind. She wants to please him the way he always does to her.

The only thing that matters to Yelena Altamonte is to become a fashion designer. To know that she couldn’t do that once she get married, made her wants to just run away. Hearing her cousin talks about disadvantages of arranged-marriage gave her more reason to do her plans.

“I don’t love him. But I left with no choice, Yelena.”

Naaawa na pinagmasdan niya ang pinsan. Kasalukuyan silang nasa mansyon nila at binisita siya ni Jamila para ibigay ng personal ang invitation card sa nalalapit na kasal nito. Sadly, her cousin will marry the man that her parents wanted for her.

It was their family’s very old tradition. An arranged-marriage.

She was raised with that kind of wedding arrangement. Her parents were a product of it. Naging maayos naman ang pamilya nila. Kaya kahit noong bata pa siya, naintindihan niya kaagad na gano’n din ang mangyayari sa kanya balang araw.

Ngunit habang tumatagal na nagkakaroon siya ng muang sa mundo, natanto niya na ayaw niya pala ang paraan kung paano ikasal ang mga kamag anak niya. Kahit pa matagal na tradisyon na ’yon ng pamilya Altamonte.

Her disagreement to fixed or arranged-marriage can see with her actions. She doesn’t want to marry someone that she don’t love. She don’t want to be with someone whom only choose her because that’s what their family wanted for them. She don’t want to be with a man that has no power to bend the tradition.

She always believed that a true love can conquer all. People must always choose the one that they loved. There’s no other option, but love. Because honestly, that’s what she will do. She’d always choose and prioritize the man that she loved, even if the world would be against them.

The reason why she became rebellious when her parents told her that she would be the next to get married after Jamila.

She don’t want to get married to anyone yet. She still has to reach a lot of things in life. To marry at the young age would only ruin her dreams. She won’t let that happen to her.

“Why don’t you just run away?” Yelena suggested.

Jamila massaged her temple. Her cousin looked really stressed.

“Kapag ginawa ko ’yon, tuluyan na talaga akong itatakwil ng magulang ko.”

Humalukipkip siya.

Paano kaya kung siya na ang nasa kalagayan ng pinsan? Anong parusa kaya ang makakamit niya kapag tinakbuhan niya ang groom niya? Itatakwil din kaya siya ng magulang niya?

Wala pang ni isa sa mga pinsan niya ang tumakbo sa kasal. Baka siya palang kapag nagkataon.

“At hindi ka bibigyan ng mana?”

“I don’t think my parents could do that. Siguradong may mamanahin parin ako. I’d be a disgrace to Altamontes if I ran away on my wedding day.”

Yelena squinted her eyes. She could be a disgrace too! Dahil wala pa man, naiisip niya na na tatakasan niya ang groom niya huwag lang matuloy ang pag-iisang dibdib nila.

“But, can’t we choose who we want to marry?”

Jamila sipped on her fresh coconut juice. Her parents used to buy coconut in Hacienda Guerrera. Matamis ang buko juice nila roon kaya pati siya ay gusto ’yon.

“We can’t, Yelena.”

“I mean, if they allow us to have an option? Paano kung pangit pala ang lalaki na mapunta sa akin? I don’t like to have an ugly husband! It’s not fair.”

Tumawa ang pinsan niya. Sumimangot naman siya.

She’s picky with boys. Kaya talagang hindi siya sang ayon sa arranged-marriage. Di bale nang tumanda siyang dalaga huwag lang matali sa lalaking hindi niya mahal. Or maybe she’s picky because she already liked and adored someone else. Kaya hindi na rin siya nagkaroon ng interes sa iba.

“Why don’t you ask your parents about that?”

“Once they got home, I will. They are in Barcelona.”

“Bakit hindi ka sumama?”

“I can’t. I have summer class.”

“Do you really pursue fashion design?”

“Of course. That’s the only dream I want to pursue.”

“And your parents don’t like that.”

“Wala na silang magagawa, Jamila. Nag enroll na ako sa Maynila.”

While her parents were in Barcelona, she will study fashion design. With the help of her best friend-Santi, she was able to get a summer class. Pareho ang kurso na kinuha nila dahil parehong hilig.

“So, you will be with Santi in Manila?”

Santi is a family friend. A son of a congressman. Her grandfather is a former governor of their province. They are really known. After her father’s term as being a mayor, he left the politics and spend his time on their family business which is quarrying mining. Even though her only brother is there to manage it.

“Yes. I’m gonna stay on his condo.”

“Did you tell your plans to Russo?”

“Yeah, Kuya knows my plan. He’s the only one who support me with what I want to achieve.”

She loves her brother so much. Her parents couldn’t spoil her like how her brother does. They are rich but she wasn’t like other rich girl who can spend a lot of money for her whims. Ang allowance na ibinibigay sa kanya ay sapat lang. Kaya kapag may gusto siyang bilhin, sa Kuya Russo niya siya nanghihingi ng pera.

“I wonder if Russo would go with our family’s tradition.”

“Hmm, if I won’t be able to break the tradition, my brother would surely do that if he didn’t like the woman.”

Knowing her brother, Russo Altamonte could break the rules if he wants too, even if it would anger their parents and grandfather. She aspires to have that kind of confidence, guts, and enough audacity to disagree with the things that is against her will.

“That’s what my father told us. That the only Altamonte who have the audacity to break the family tradition is Russo. Well, let’s see.”

Kalaunan ay nagpaalam na rin si Jamila. Hindi na ito nag desisyon pang manatili ng isang gabi sa mansyon nila dahil marami pa raw itong aasikasuhin bukas para sa nalalapit na kasal. Wala talagang nagawa ang pinsan niya kundi pumayag na matali sa lalaking hindi nito mahal.

They are on their way to Manila when Yelena received a call from her mother. She don’t want to answer that but it kept on ringing. Napatingin na rin tuloy sa kanya si Santi at sa screen ng cellphone niya.

“I’m worried Tita Yuna would scold me for helping you, Yelena.”

“That’s why I don’t wanna answer this call.”

Yelena heaved a sigh. Wala talaga siyang balak sagutin ang tawag. Alam niya agad na papagalitan lang siya ng mommy niya dahil sa desisyon niya na ’yon.

Nang natapos ang tawag ay ang cellphone naman ni Santi ang tumunog. With eyes widened, Santi covered his mouth as if seeing her mother’s name on the screen terrified him.

“Let’s answer na? Tell her that it’s only two months?”

Kinuha niya ang cellphone at sinagot. Her mom won’t stop from calling them if they didn’t answer.

“Mommy-”

“What is this, Yelena? Are you going to Manila for what? You are just wasting your time!”

Nagkatinginan sila ni Santi. Hindi naman naka loud speaker ’yon pero sa iritadong boses ng ina, halos marinig ng kaibigan ang sinasabi ng kabilang linya.

“Mom, this is what I want. Besides, this is only a summer class. Bago pa kayo makauwi rito ay nakabalik na ako sa atin.”

“What I was trying to say is taking that course is useless, Yelena. Ikakasal ka rin kalaunan at hindi ’yan ang magiging priority mo. “

“I don’t wanna get married-”

“What?! What did you say?”

Yelena leered.

Santi is carefully listening while his head near her shoulder.

“I said, I don’t want to get married. I don’t want to spend my life with a man that you will choose for me.”

“Anong sinasabi mong bata ka? Your grandfather would’ve a heart attack once he heard you saying that nonsense!”

Bumuntonghininga ulit siya.

Mas maganda na sa personal niya nalang sasabihin sa mga ito ang hindi niya pag sang ayon sa tradisyon ng pamilya nila. Bahala na kung magalit sa kanya ang magulang niya at ang kanyang lolo. Habang maaga pa ay ipaparating niya na sa mga ito na ayaw niyang magpakasal sa kahit kaninong mapili ng mga ito para sa kanya.

“You didn’t even know who is the man that we chose for you, Yelena.”

Nagsalubong ang kilay niya.

Nagkatinginan ulit si ni Santi.

“What? May napili na sila?” he mouthed.

“I think so?” she mouthed back.

Yelena cleared her throat. “What do you mean, mom? You already chose a man for me?”

That though terrified her. It was too early to introduce her with whoever her parents chose for her! They must have wait until she’s ready! Damn, she just turned eighteen!

“Yes. We will visit them once we get back home.”

Her heart pounded. Halos manginig ang mga kamay niya dahil mabilis na binalot ng iritasyon at galit dahil sa mabilis na desisyon ng magulang niya. Pakiramdam niya ay kaagad na kinukuha sa kanya ang kalayaan na gawin ang mga gusto niya sa buhay.

She’s too young for marriage. Too young to be a wife. Too young to experience a married life.

She was really not into a relationships or anything that involves marriage. Her heart feels like a stone that she couldn’t afford being attracted with someone else. But deep in side of her, there’s only one man that she wants… that she adores… and maybe, the only man that she would allow to be with for the rest of her life. Kaya lang… hindi talaga siya manalo-nalo sa laro ng tadhana.

At hanggang sa mga sandaling ’yon ay malinaw parin sa ala-ala niya ang mga munting pangarap ng mas batang Yelena. Mga pangarap niya para sa kanilang dalawa pagdating ng malayong hinaharap.

Masyado siyang nabulag sa dami ng pangarap noon, na hindi niya napaghandaan na sa pagdaan ng panahon, mag-iiba ang ihip ng hangin.

Her dreams to be with Zacariel Guerrera in the future shattered together with her heart when she heard him muttered those unforgettable words…

1 ~ ADORATION

CHAPTER ONE

IT was a young love. Something that she’s sure about. She never felt that kind of feelings towards someone else, only to him. If it was not a genuine love, then, why even until that day, she’s still into him? Despite of everything that happened between them? Despite of the pain he gave her young heart?

She knew Guerreras since she was a kid. They are one of their family’s trusted friend. Kasabay nang paglaki niya ay ang pagbabago rin ng damdamin niya para kay Zacariel Guerrera.

At first, she thought that she only liked him as her big brother. But her feelings changed and her adoration for him gets stronger. Until she realized that what she feels for him was far from being a brother… it was more than that. It was deeper than that. It was scary, but that’s her reality.

It’s Doña Zarita’s birthday. They are invited and her family wouldn’t miss this kind of party. Guerreras always hosted a grand party. Madalas ay sa tuwing kaarawan ng Don at Donya.

Yelena is simply scanning the whole floor of the rooftop where they celebrating a party with other guests. She went to the living area but still failed to see Zacariel.

“Your crush is not here,” Santi told her with a smirk.

Santi is her only friend and her best friend. Kahit pa marami ang gustong makipagkaibigan sa kanya na pareho ng estado niya sa pamumuhay, mas komportable siya kay Santi. She trusts him and vise versa. They both shared secrets and that’s what made their friendship stronger.

She admitted to Santi that she felt like she has a crush with Zacariel Guerrera. Mabilis niyang napangalanan ang nararamdaman dahil madalas magbasa ng libro ng tungkol sa pag-ibig.

“How did you know?”

She has no communication with Zacariel. Naging abala siya sa pag-a-aral kaya hindi na nakakabisita sa Hacienda Guerrera. She also made a plan that on summer, she would stay in hacienda so she could spend time with him. Sana ay hindi ito abala.

“Tinanong ko si Lupita. Baka hindi raw makarating ang Senyorito Zacariel.”

“You did that?” Baling niya sa kaibigan na gwapong-gwapo sa suot na coat ang tie.

But no matter how handsome he was, she can’t really feel anything. Maybe because she knew that they both wanted the same… she knew what he prefers… she’s aware with what he wants and that’s not her… or not someone like her.

“To make sure that he’s really here. Unfortunately for you, you won’t see him because he’s busy daw.”

Yelena sighed.

Minsan na nga lang siya magawi sa Hacienda Guerrera, hindi niya pa nadatnan si Zacariel. Sayang naman ang pag-iiisip niya sa binata gabi-gabi kung kahit isang sulyap lang dito ay hindi mangyayari.

“Gusto mo kunin ko ang number niya? Baka mayroon si Lupita.”

Mabilis siyang umiling.

Santi is very supportive. Pareho lang yata sila. Dahil kapag may munting problema ito, sinisikap niya rin na makatulong hanggat kaya niya.

“Huwag na. Baka sa bakasyon magkita kami. Sinabi ko na kay mommy na gusto ko rito sa Hacienda. Sasabihin namin kay Donya Zarita mamaya kapag hindi na siya abala.”

“Gusto ko rin sana rito, kaya lang may ibang plano ang magulang ko sa summer.”

Summer vacation is approaching. Sa susunod na buwan na ’yon at excited siya dahil sa plano niya.

Kumuha muna sila ng dessert bago nagpunta sa isang sulok at doon kumain. Most of the guests are olds. Kaunti lang ang nakikita nilang kasing edad nila. As expected, because the party is for adult. Mabuti nalang at imbitado rin sina Santi, dahil kung hindi, maaga siyang mag-aayang umuwi.

“Ang gwapo ni Kuya Zacarias,” Santi’s eyes twinkled.

Hinanap ng mga mata niya si Zacarias Guerrera, ang panganay na anak nina Don Patricio at Donya Zarita. He’s tall and really good looking man. But he’s also intimidating. He looked like a strict old-fashioned brother to her. But because she knew Guerreras ever since, she’s aware that they are good people.

“Mas gwapo si Zacariel.”

“Of course, crush mo ’yon kaya mas gwapo sa paningin mo.”

“Kuya Zacarias is strict. While Kuya Zarick is more approachable.”

“How about Zacariel?”

“I haven’t seen him for a long while now, but, hmm… he was friendly to me. Sana hindi nagbago ’yon?”

Yelena always remembered some of her memories with Zacariel Guerrera whenever she was in Hacienda Guerrera before. Baka kaya nagustuhan niya ay dahil mabait ito sa kanya at tila palagi siyang pinoprotektahan.

“Crush ba talaga ’yang nararamdaman mo? Gusto mo pa rin siya kahit matagal mong hindi nakita? O nakakausap man lang?”

Isn’t that weird? That she declared that she has a crush with Zacariel even though they don’t communicate? Even though she don’t see him every day? Pwede ba ’yon? Na magustuhan mo ang isang tao kahit malayo sayo?

“I never had a crush. According to the books that I’ve read, what I feel for him is… uh, crush. I adore him. I admire him.”

“Kasi ako, nahihiya ako sa crush ko. Pero ikaw? Parang ang lakas-lakas ng loob na harapin si Zacariel? Hindi ka man lang ba kakabahan kung sakaling dumating siya ngayon?”

“Bakit naman ako kakabahan? Hindi naman ako natatakot sa kanya. I will feel happy to see him and I will hug him!”

Napangiwi si Santi. Para bang may nakakahiya sa sinabi niya.

Like what her mother taught her, she shouldn’t feel scared or intimidated with someone, it should be the other way around. Kaya matindi ang kompyansa niya sa sarili dahil sa tahanan nila ay naturuan na siya kung paano niya dalhin ang sarili sa harap ng mga tao.

Wala naman sigurong pinagkaiba iyon kung haharap siya sa lalaking gusto niya? Besides, Zacariel is a good man. Sigurado siyang walang awkwardness na mangyayari kung magkita ulit sila.

“What? Can’t I hug him? I hugs his brothers and sisters. So…”

Santi’s eyes glued to somewhere. Tapos ay lumaki ang mga mata nito na para bang may nakakamanghang nakita.

Nang sundan niya ng tingin ang nagpapamangha rito, walang pahintulot na binulabog ng malalakas na pintig ang puso niya nang makita ang lalaking hinahanap-hanap.

Sporting a white button down long sleeve polo, dark pants, and a leather belt that for some reason caught her attention, Zacariel Guerrera looking so hot despite of a dark aura around him.

His growing whiskers, his eyes that full of hidden emotions, his impressive height, and those protruding muscles on his forearms, made her realized that he was no longer the Zacariel that she used to know. His physique matured so much that she felt like it was a sin to even like him… to have a crush on him… because she’s very young compare to him.

Yelena couldn’t stop the wild beating of her heart. If it’s because of the excitement, she wasn’t sure. It’s just that seeing him again gave her different feeling.

“Sino ang kasama niya? Girlfriend niya?” Santi murmured like a bee.

The woman beside him is very beautiful. Hindi halos naglalayo ang taas ng dalawa. The woman is wearing a black silk long dress. Holding a clutch while her other hand was on Zacariel’s arm.

Animo may tumusok sa dibdib niya nang matanto na maaaring may kasintahan na nga ang binata. Bakit ba hindi niya naisip iyon? Hindi man lang niya napaghandaan ang mararamdaman niya kung sakali!

“He’s matured. I’m very young. Hindi kami bagay,” aniya para maibsan ang pait sa puso niya.

“Hindi mo na siya crush?”

Nagkibit siya ng balikat.

She’s honestly disappointed to see Zacariel with a woman. That didn’t come to her mind. Masyado siyang nangarap na magkakaroon sila ng magandang scenario sa oras na magkita ulit sila, pero hindi pala mangyayari.

“I still need to figure out if what I feel for him. Baka naman akala ko lang ay crush ko siya.”

Kahit pa medyo na-apektuhan sa nakita niya, ipinagpatuloy pa rin nila ang gabi. Hindi na rin siya nagtangka na lapitan si Zacariel. Tutal, may kasama naman ito. He couldn’t even leave without the woman.

“I’m getting bored, Santi.”

“Me too.”

“Labas tayo?”

“They have horses, right? Pwede ba tayong magpunta sa kwadra?”

“Oo naman. Let’s go.”

Gano’n nga ang ginawa nilang magkaibigan. Umalis sila sa party at bumaba. Abala ang mga kasambahay sa mansyon. Ang iba ay akyat panaog.

They walked towards the horse stable. The horses’ neighs made her smile. She never learn how to ride a horse because she’s afraid to fall. Kahit pa may mga kabayo rin sa kanila, hindi pa rin ’yon sapat para sikapin niyang matuto.

Katulad sa kanila, ma-presko rin ang hangin sa Hacienda Guerrera. She also felt home being there. Isa sa dahilan kung bakit gusto niya rin ang lugar na ’yon.

“Sandali, I forgot my phone.” Santi hurry to get back to the rooftop.

Mag-isa si Yelena na sa kwadra at pinanood lang ang mga kabayo na naroon. May kulay itim, brown at puti.

Ilan sandali pa ay narinig niya ang munting hagikhik na papalapit. Nang lingunin niya, ang babae iyon at kasama si Zacariel.

Since he’s looking at the horse stable, he easily noticed that she’s there. Their eyes though met effortlessly. That made her heart raced again.

Zacariel frowned as if he didn’t like the idea that he saw her there.

“Are you gonna show me your horse?” The woman asked in a teasing tone.

“Yeah, I’d like to.”

“Pwede ba akong sumakay?”

“Saan?” he asked maliciously that made the woman giggled again.

Really? In front of her?

The Zacariel Guerrera that she adored was gone. This version in front of her feels like stronger, merciless and wild.

“Sa kabayo, Zacariel. Saan mo ba gusto?” her voice sounded sensual. She even caressed his forearm.

They both stopped when they got near her. Medyo nagulat pa ang babae dahil hindi naman siya nito napansin kanina. She was too busy to flirt with Zacariel, kaya gano’n.

“Hi, good evening!” the woman greeted.

Yelena faked a smile. “Good evening.”

“Are you lost, dear?”

“No, I get bored, so…”

“Baka hinahanap ka na ng magulang mo?” The woman sounded like she wants her to leave.

For what? Para mapag-isa ang mga ito? At ano ang gagawin? Pwede naman na tatlo silang manood ng kabayo roon?

“You can go back to the party and find your parents. Baka uuwi na kayo.”

“Ano bang pakialam mo?” medyo iritado niyang balik.

“Yelena…” that voice and the warning on it made her glanced at Zacariel.

Tinaasan niya ito ng kilay. “What?”

Why does it feels like it was her fault that she’s there? Siya naman ang nauna roon! At bakit parang pasimple siyang pinapaalis?

“Oh, you know her,” kalmado na ang babae at malambing din ang tono.

“Why don’t you go back and-”

“I said, I’m bored! Pati ba naman dito sa kwadra pagbabawalan niyo ako? Ako naman ang nauna rito. Bakit niyo ako pinapaalis?”

Zacariel’s lips parted a bit as he looked at her being so annoyed already.

“Dear, hindi ka namin pinapaalis-”

“Shut up,” she cut the woman off.

Magsasalita sana ang babae at papatulan na siya, pinigil lang ni Zacariel. He then sighed. As if something is giving him a headache.

“Pwede naman na nandito ako at nandito rin kayo. Hindi niyo ako kailangan paalisin.”

He nods his head. He’s trying to be understanding.

Hinawi niya ang buhok nang humangin.

She caught him staring at her darkly. His lips in thin line. And when his eyes travelled to her body, she suddenly felt a heat somewhere.

She’s wearing a burgundy tulle evening dress and paired it with ankle strap high heels. Her wavy hair hair is in half ponytail. Medyo nagugulo na dahil sa hangin.

Nagkatitigan ulit sila ni Zacariel. His cold eyes told her that he wasn’t please and she don’t really care.

Inirapan niya ito bago tinalikuran.

Yelena is smirking. She felt like she won. And that’s really satisfying. If her presence bothers them, then, they should be the one to leave and not her.

“Sayang, wala akong oras para mamasyal bukas,” narinig niyang sabi ng babae.

Naglalakad-lakad ang mga ito sa kabuuan ng kwadra. Siya naman ay gano’n din, kaya lang mas mabagal ang bawat hakbang niya at mas matagal ang paghinto sa bawat kabayo.

“Maybe next time.” Zacariel’s response was always short.

It seemed like he wasn’t comfortable that there are other people there aside from them. He also tried to distance himself from the woman whenever she tries to get a hold on him.

“Dear, do you know how to ride a horse?” The woman was being friendly.

“No.”

“Aw. Pareho pala tayo. But Zacariel here, is willing to teach me. Right?”

“If I have extra time, why not.”

Yelena pursed her lips. Suddenly, she wanted to learn horseback riding!

“Gusto ko rin matuto…” parinig niya.

Bumaling sa kanya si Zacariel. Kahit medyo naiinis siya, binigyan niya ito ng matamis na ngiti.

“Pwede mo rin akong turuan mangabayo, Zacariel?”

She never called him Kuya , but she do with Zacarias and Zarick. But not with him.

“You should call him Kuya Zacariel . You’re obviously so young, Yelena.”

That woman is really getting into her nerves. Masyadong pakialamera! Ito ang klase ng tao na ayaw niyang makasama.

“He’s not my Kuya.”

Tumawa nalang ang babae. Nakita niyang hinaplos nito sa braso si Zacariel.

“Nandito ako sa summer,” pagpapagtuloy niya at imporma na rin sa binata.

He looked at her again. His emotion didn’t change. But she won’t stop not until he told her that he gonna teach her.

“Kapag nandito ka sa summer, pwede mo akong turuan mangabayo.”

“I’ll try.”

At least, he will try? But it wasn’t sure yet. She wanted something to look forward to this coming summer vacation.

“Yelena!” maligayang tawag sa kanya ni Santi habang tumatakabo palapit sa kwadra. “Tawag ka ni Tita Yuna at–” he paused when he noticed that she was not alone. “Oh, sorry, nandito pala ’yong crush mo, Yelena…”

Yelena’s eyes widened. Kasabay niyon ay ang pag init ng pisngi nang marinig ang tawa ng babae. They heard Santi’s words!

“Good evening, Kuya Zacarias and Miss,” Santi greeted politely. Para bang wala itong ginawang kahihiyan para sa kanya.

She couldn’t look on Zacariel. Siguradong narinig nito ang sinabi ni Santi. Nakakahiya!

“Uh, see you again!” mabilis na paalam niya sa mga ito at hinila na ang kaibigan palayo.

“Ouch! Yelena!” reklamo nito nang kurutin niya sa bewang.

Huminto sila at hinarap ito.

“Bakit mo sinabi ’yon?”

“Ang ano?”

“Na crush ko si Zacariel!”

“Crush mo naman talaga, di ba?”

“Kahit na!” she stomped her foot. “You shouldn’t do that, Santi. Ano nalang ang iisipin niya sa ’kin? Na nagpapapansin ako sa kanya?”

“It’s just a crush! He will understand it. Siguradong dumaan din siya sa stage na ’yan. Crush lang naman, eh!”

Apektado pa rin siya dahil nalaman ni Zacariel na crush niya ito. Kaya noong nasa library room na sila at nag-uusap ang magulang niya pati na rin si Donya Zarita, wala roon ang buong atensyon niya.

“I’ll be happy for you to be here on summer, hija. Abala ang mga anak ko kaya wala tuloy akong mapagtuunan ng pansin. Mabuti nalang at naisipan mong magbakasyon ulit dito.”

Ngumiti siya sa Donya. “Na-miss ko po kasi ang ambiance dito. Salamat po sa pagpayag ninyo na manatili ako dito sa summer.”

The conversation continued until they heard a knock. Wala naman siyang pakialam kung sino ang papasok. Baka kasambahay lang na maghahatid ng mainit na maiinom.

But what Yelena didn’t expect is to see Zacariel Guerrera when the door opened. He was alone though. And his eyes met hers again quickly. Para bang ang dali-dali para rito na hulihin ang mga mata niya.

“Zacariel, hijo, have a seat.”

She had no idea why he’s there. Anim na silang naroon. Ang magulang niya at ang magulang ng binata.

He greeted his parents before he found his chair. Nasaan na kaya ang girlfriend nito? Sa mansyon ba magpapalipas ng gabi? Sigurado!

“What is this meeting all about, Mamá?” his voice was calm and formal.

It was like he’s in the middle of business meeting. Napaayos tuloy siya sa pagkakaupo.

“Yelena’s parents wants to talk with you. You might want to consider their…” Doña Zarita smiles at her son.

Napalunok si Yelena. She glanced at her parents. The way they looked at Zacariel, it seemed like they wanted his approval on whatever they are going to tell him.

Biglang nag unahan ang bawat pintig ng puso niya nang pumasok sa isip ang maaaring sabihin ng magulang niya.

“Ano po iyon?” Zacariel decently asked.

Her father shifted on his chair. While her mother is all smiles. It seemed like she was confident that this meeting would turn out the way they expected it to be.

“Hijo-”

“Uh, bathroom! Excuse me!” She stood up and ran towards the door.

She couldn’t stand being there and hear whatever her parents wants to tell to Zacariel Guerrera. She already have a hint, but she’s not still sure if she’s right.

Also, she can’t be so sure if she could handle her feelings once she heard his answer.

It would surely breaks her heart if ever he refused her parents’ proposal. Her adoration for him is too much that he could easily hurt her if he wants to.

2 ~ INNOCENCE

CHAPTER TWO

HANGGAT kaya ay binibilisan niya ang pagbaba sa engrandeng hagdanan ng mansyon. Kasabay ng bawat hakbang ay ang mabilis din na tibok ng kanyang puso.

She’s still can’t believe that her parents had a plan of talking to the Guerreras. At tungkol saan ang pag-uusapan? Sa arranged-marriage ba? Si Zacariel ba ang napili ng magulang niya para sa kanya?

The Guerreras are not known for a fixed or arranged marriage thing. The Don and Doña allowed their children to choose the one that they loved. Unlike her family, she and her cousins have no freedom to choose and most of them are in unhappy marriage.

Ayaw niyang magaya sa mga pinsan niya!

But if Zacariel Guerrera would be her future groom, would it be fine with her? Magiging masaya ba siya?

Napalunok siya nang maisip na posibleng pumayag si Zacariel… pero may chance din na hindi. Now that she saw him again, she felt like he’s not the type of a man that would allow other people to choose for him. He have his own decision and she’s sure he could turn down her parents proposal if he wants to.

When Yelena opens the door of the restroom, she easily noticed the woman awhile ago. She’s in front of the mirror while putting a powder on her face.

“Oh, it’s you again. Are you alright?”

Mula sa repleksyon ng salamin, nakita niya ang sarili at ang pamumutla. Talagang kinakabahan siya sa nangyayari!

“I’m fine.”

Yelena washed her hands as she tried to make her nerves calm. She needs a distraction and this woman can help her with that.

“Are you Zacariel’s girlfriend?”

The woman smiles. “Not yet.”

Hindi pa? Kaya walang problema kung pumayag si Zacariel na pakasal sa kanya sa susunod na taon?

If ever he agreed to marry her, then, he needs to stop seeing another woman. He can’t have a girlfriend… oh well, while they are not yet married, he’s free to be in a relationship. Yes, that’s it. She don’t want to be possessive.

Bakit pa niya ipagdadamot si Zacariel kung Alam niyang sa huli ay sa kanya naman ang bagsak ng binata?

“We actually going abroad next week for a business meeting. Ang plano ko, doon ko na siya sasagutin.”

After she dried her hands, she rested her back on the wall and crossed her arms while looking at the woman.

She has a fair skin like hers. Her curves emphasized because of her dress. She smells nice too. She’s neat and her hair is shoulder length.

She can’t help but compare herself to the woman.

She’s still very young compare to her. She’s still studying while this woman is already working and have her own career. She’s also probably supporting herself and don’t depend with her parents anymore. Something that she can’t do yet because she’s still young.

Siguro, ganito talaga ang babaeng tipo ni Zacariel. Matured and independent. Bukod sa maganda at sexy, may maayos na trabaho at tila handa nang pumasok sa mas seryosong relasyon. Pang-matagalan.

Yelena felt the bitterness inside her chest. She’s never been jealous with another girl, but to see a successful woman in front of her and to know that she’s with Zacariel Guerrera, gives her heart a little pain.

She always envied people who has a freedom to do what they want for their lives. Isang bagay na pilit ipinagkakait sa kanya.

“I think, you and Zacariel won’t happen…”

The woman paused from spraying her expensive perfume. She glanced at her with confusion.

“What do you mean?”

Yelena exhaled dramatically.

It’s better if she tells to this woman what’s really happening inside the library room of Guerrera’s mansion. Kahit wala pa siyang tiyak na sagot kung pumayag ba talaga si Zacariel, dapat ay malaman ng babae ang tungkol sa usapan sa pagitan ng magulang niya, ni Zacariel at ng magulang nito. Para na rin hindi umasa ang babae na magkakaroon sila ng relasyon ng binata.

“Zacariel with his parents and mine are now inside the library room. Do you have idea why they are having a closed door meeting at this moment?”

“As far as I know, Zacariel went here despite of his busy schedule because it’s his mother’s special day. Nothing more.”

“That’s the reason too. But the other important reason is because both of our parents are now arranging our marriage.”

Kitang-kita niya ang gulat sa mukha ng babae. Gusto niyang ngumisi ngunit pinigil ang sarili. Ayaw niyang masaktan ito kaya mas minabuti niyang ipagtapat dito ang nangyayari sa mga oras na ’yon.

“Is that a joke? Then, that’s not a good joke, Yelena.”

“You’ll see, I’m not joking, Miss.”

Tinapos nito ang pag-aayos at iniwan na siya roon.

Yelena faced the mirror. Slowly, a smile crept her lips. She’s already thinking the possibilities once Zacariel agreed to marry her.

Hindi niya dapat iyon iniisip ngunit hindi niya mapigilan ang sarili. At bakit parang natutuwa siya na baka si Zacariel nga ang mapunta sa kanya sa huli? Hindi ba at ayaw niyang pakasal?

Ayaw niyang pakasal sa hindi niya mahal. Pero, kapag si Zacariel Guerrera ay ayos lang sa kanya? Gano’n siya kahibang?

After an hour or so of roaming around the mansion, Yelena saw her parents making their way down to the wide living room together with the Don and Doña. Zacariel was not with them.

“See? Zacariel is right. She’s not ready for that kind of topic,” si Donya Zarita sa mommy niya. “She’s still very young.”

Mabining tumawa ang kanyang ina. “We wanted to surprise her, we didn’t expect her to ran away.”

Nagbeso ang dalawa bago tuluyang bumaling sa kanya.

“No worries, hija, you’re still free like a bird.”

Yelena don’t want to give yet an interpretation about what Doña Zarita’s words. All that she wants is to go back home.

“I’ll see you on summer, Doña Zarita!” she said merrily.

“I’ll make sure that Zacariel is here on summer, Yelena. Para mas maging masaya ang bakasyon mo.”

Pagkatapos nilang magpaalam ay hinatid sila ng mga ito sa pinto at hinintay na makasakay sa kanilang sasakyan.

Her parents acted casual as if nothing happened or everything is normal. Ibig bang sabihin niyon ay maayos ang naging pag-uusap ng mga ito at ni Zacariel? Pumayag ba ang binata?

She didn’t dare to ask her parents about it. She’d rather wait for them to tell her what was Zacariel’s answer for the arranged-marriage.

Yelena couldn’t explain the excitement she’s feeling as days went by before the summer vacation. Kahit sa eskwelahan ay ganado siyang mag-aral.

“Sigurado ka ba na pumayag siyang pakasal sayo?” Paninigurado ni Santi.

“Kung hindi siya pumayag, dapat sinabi na sa akin nila mommy.”

“Tanungin mo kaya si Zacariel kapag nagkita kayo?”

Inilapag niya ang notebook sa kandungan. Nasa bench sila sa harap ng malawak na soccer field. It’s their break time and one more subject before the class ends.

“Pwede rin. Para na rin masabi ko sa kanya ang mga gusto kong gawin kahit pa kasal na kami.”

“I don’t think he would stop you doing your passion, Yelena. He’s matured and responsible. Siguradong papayagan ka niya sa mga gusto mo pang gawin.”

“Dapat lang na payagan niya ako. Dahil kung hindi, I’ll make sure he would have an unhappy marriage.”

Tumawa si Santi. Akala yata ay nagbibiro siya.

“If a man is unhappy, he would find something that would make him happy. Handa ka ba kung sakaling mag taksil siya sayo?”

Kumunot ang noo niya. Imagine, Zacariel Guerrera having a secret affair? And his other woman is the woman that he brought on his mother’s birthday?

Wala pa man ay pumait na ang timpla niya.

“Handa ba siya kung mag taksil din ako sa kanya?”

Santi smiled proudly at her. “That’s what I loved about you, Yelena. Palaban!”

“You’re right, Santi. I need to talk to him about our future together. Sasabihin ko sa kanya ang mga plano ko at gusto kong sabihin niya rin sa akin ang kanya.”

“Tama ’yan. In that way, you’ll both know if you’re compatible. Isa pa, mas mabuti nang alam ninyo ang gusto ng isa’t-isa bago kayo magpakasal.”

Kinagabihan, isinulat niya ang mga bagay na gusto niyang mangyari, mga plano at pangarap na sisikaping maabot. She’s just hoping that Zacariel would be considerate and would understand her.

Summer came and Yelena is ecstatic. Their van will take her to Hacienda Guerrera. Inilagay na rin ni Felipa ang mga gamit niya sa sasakyan.

“I’m gonna miss you, Meadow,” she sweetly said to her Persian cat while hugging her on her arms.

“Senyorita, ipaalam mo agad sa amin kung pumayag si Donya Zarita na dalhin mo si Meadow sa mansyon. Ipapadala agad namin.”

Nakalimutan niyang sabihin sa Donya ang tungkol kay Meadow. Ayaw niya namang dalhin ang pusa niya nang walang paalam sa may-ari ng mansyon.

“Okay. Ikaw muna ang bahala kay Meadow. Wag mong pabayaan, huh?”

Ngumiti si Felipa nang tinanggap ang pusa. “Walang problema, Senyorita. I-video call mo rin siya kung gusto mo.”

Sa malayo ay narinig niya ang mabibigat na yapak ng kabayong paparating. She squinted her eyes to have a clear vision of her brother riding the black horse.

“Narito na si Senyorito Russo! Maghanda kayo ng maiinom!” utos ni Felipa sa mga kasambahay.

Pagkababa sa kabayo, iniwan nito ’yon at kinuha naman ng taga-pangalaga. Sa kanya dumeretso ang kapatid.

“Kuya, buti bumalik ka. Aalis na ako,” tumingkayad siya at hinagkan ito sa pisngi gaya ng nakagawian.

“When are you going back?”

“I’ll stay for a month or two. Doon ko na rin aasikaushin ang papers ko sa susunod na enrollment.”

“Okay, then. Call me when you need anything.”

Ngumiti siya at tumango. “Hindi ka ba bibisita sa Hacienda Guerrera? Baka nandoon sina ate Zalanna at Zakia. Kahit sino sa kanilang dalawa, bagay na bagay sayo.”

Actually, she has this in mind that her brother would marry one of Zacariel’s sister. She admired the two señorita so much that she wanted them to be her sister. At mangyayari lang ’yon kung papakasalan ng Kuya Russo niya ang isa sa dalawa… o kaya naman ay kung papakasalan siya ni Zacariel.

“I’m too busy. And…” he raised his thick brow. “Zalanna and Zakia are just a younger sister to me. Like you. So, stop your imagination that I’m gonna marry one of them.”

Dismayado niyang binagsak ang balikat.

“Sayang! Gusto ko pa naman silang maging ate!”

“You can still treat them as your ate, Yelena . They wouldn’t mind that.”

“Wala talagang pag-asa na ligawan mo ang isa sa kanila? Bakit, Kuya? May nagugustuhan ka na ba?”

He shook his head. “Wala pa naman.”

“Pero, may kasama ka raw babae noong nakaraang araw? Sino ’yon? Girlfriend mo?”

“No. Anyway, say my regards to Don Patricio and Doña Zarita.”

Binuksan ng Kuya Russo niya ang pinto ng SUV at pinapasok na siya. Hindi malayo ang Hacienda Guerrera sa kanila. Sa katunayan niyan, ang lupa nila ang boundary ng pinaka dulong lupa ng mga ito. Iba lang ang daan kaya inaabot pa rin ng lagpas kalahating oras bago makarating sa mansyon.

Yelena is looking forward to see Zacariel and let him teach her how to ride a horse. Lalakasan niya nalang ang loob niya para matuto siya.

“Maligayang pagbabalik, Senyorita Yelena!” nakangiti si Lupita nang salubungin siya.

She smiled back. The helpers there are very welcoming. Alam niyang hindi lang sa kanya, kundi na rin sa ibang bisita.

“Hija!” the voice of Doña Zarita caught her.

Galing ito sa malawak na Hardin at suot ang mahabang bestidang halatang mamahalin kahit pa simple lang ang desenyon no’n.

A cheek to cheek kiss is normal for them. Dadalhin sana siya nito sa loob para sa hinandang pagkain at maiinom, kaya lang ay naudlot nang makita nila na naglalakad si Zacariel papunta sa gawi nila galing sa kwadra.

“He arrived last night. I’m really glad that he took a leave from work in Manila.” Doña Zarita whispered beside her.

“Hi, hijo, Yelena is here. I heard you two has some activities to do while she’s here? Ano pa ba bukod sa pangangabayo?”

Siguradong ang mommy niya ang nagsabi kay Donya Zarita na gusto niyang magpaturong mangabayo sa binata. Medyo nahihiya tuloy siya dahil hindi pa naman pumapayag si Zacariel, tapos umaasa na ang ina nito na gagawin nga nila.

“Uh, pwede rin pong pumasyal sa planta? Gusto ko pong makita.”

“Sure! Zacariel can take you there. Right, son?”

Yelena can’t believe with the way her bear pounded because of Zacariel’s intense eyes that intently looking at her.

He’s on a loose white shirt that reveals his neck down to his collarbone, a pants and a boots. That is his usual get up whenever he’s in hacienda. She’s used to it. Dahil gano’n din naman halos ang mga suot ng Kuya Russo niya sa rancho nila.

He’s still looked bold and dark because of his whiskers. Maybe he’s trying to grow them that’s why he didn’t shave. Pero, ayos lang din naman ’yon sa kanya. Besides, with that, he’s more mature and vigorous.

“I can show her around,” his thick manly voice made her swallowed.

Pinilit niyang ngumiti sa kabila nang hindi magkandamayaw na pintig ng puso.

“I don’t know yet how to ride a horse. So, sayo ako sasakay.”

She saw how his luscious eyebrow arched mischievously, then he licked his lower lips as if something is so ridiculous that he had to stop himself from smiling.

“Sa kabayo ka sasakay at hindi sa akin.”

Ngumuso siya kasabay nang pag-iinit ng pisngi.

Doña Zarita laughed softly. “Zacariel, don’t be too hard with Yelena. Tignan mo ang pisngi, namumula.”

Halos takpan niya ang magkabilang pisngi dahil nag-iinit talaga ’yon.

“Mamá, I was just trying correct her sentence. Hindi ko rin naman siya papayagang sumakay sa akin…” tapos ay humakbang ito palapit sa kanya.

Her heart is really going wild. Kaunti na lang ay para bang mabibilaukan na siya dahil sa tindi ng nararamdaman sa dibdib.

“We will have our lunch together. I’ll see you both later.” Paalam ng Donya at umalis na.

Zacariel was smirking as he towered her with his massive body frame, and a height that would be hard for her to kiss him whenever she wants to. Unless, she’d tiptoe and grip the shirt on his chest before she could do that.

At naisip niya pa talaga ’yon? Sa gitna ng kaba at panginginig ng kalamnan, nagawa niya pang isipin kung paano ito mahahalikan? Ibang klase!

Inangat niya ang isang kilay sa mataray na paraan upang itago ang tunay na nararamdaman.

“Kailan mo ako papayagang sumakay sayo?”

“Sa akin? Hindi pa…” the smirk on his lips stayed. “…I don’t do minors,” he boldly said.

Unti-unti ay natauhan siya. Hindi sila pareho nang iniisip! While she was asking innocently, he’s being sensual. The way he stares at her feels like he’s trying to challenge her or what.

At dahil likas na palaban at mataas ang kompyansa sa sarili, hindi niya ito uurungan. Kahit pa sa gano’n na klaseng usapan.

She’s still virgin and never been kissed, but it doesn’t mean she’s very innocent about sex and relationships. Santi is very vocal about it, the reason why she knows a lot even though she’s still considered a minor.

Also, nowadays, social media is like an open book for everyone. Na kahit hindi para sa edad niya ang tema, nakikita niya pa rin. She’s always curious like a cat, she won’t stop until she get the answers that she needs.

“Kapag eighteen na ako…” she did a flirty smile at him. “…pwede na akong sumakay sayo?”

His lips parted a bit and his eyes darkened even more. He didn’t expect her to play with his words.

“I’ll turn eighteen before the year ends. Kaunti nalang ang hihintayin natin, Zacariel,” patuloy niya at hindi winawala ang ngiti sa labi.

“No, I won’t still allow you.”

Yelena pouted her lips. “Why not? Eighteen is a legal age.”

Umiling si Zacariel. Halatang ayaw pa rin pumayag!

“Yelena, I’ll teach you how to ride a horse-”

“Thank you! Pero papayagan mo akong sumakay sayo?”

Napahilot ito sa sintido. Para bang kaunti nalang ay magrereklamo na ito na sumasakit na ang ulo.

Then he chuckled as if he realized something funny. She heard him muttered a curse. He’s biting his lower lips in a way that he’s stopping himself to make a laugh.

“Baby, your innocence turns me on,” he muttered with a lazy smile and amusement on his eyes.

She’s sure what he meant was not about being sexually turned on. He’s just being so amuse with her innocence. Ibig sabihin, bata pa talaga ang tingin sa kanya ni Zacariel. Suddenly, she wants to turn eighteen as soon as possible so he won’t treat her like a kid anymore.

Besides, she don’t look like seventeen year old girl. She stands like about five and seven inches, with a right curves and of course impressive breasts that most of the girls her age doesn’t have. Given the fact that she came from a family with a mixed foreign blood, her beauty always stand out like a beauty queen.

“Hmm,” kinibot niya ang labi. “I was just asking.”

“Yeah.”

“Sasakay nga ako sayo, Zacariel.”

“Sa kabayo ko, okay? Hindi sa akin,” paglilinaw ulit nito.

“Okay! So… Payag ka na? Bukas?”

He nods his head that made her smile grew wider.

“Are you going to teach me how to ride a horse too?”

“Yes, while I’m here.”

Yelena screamed in excitement and stopped herself quickly because the helpers’ attention went on them.

“I’m free today. Would you like to roam me around?” She gave him a sweet smile.

Zacariel sighed. He’s still thinking if he would say yes to her or no.

“Well, yeah, I’d like to show you a place.”

Her eyes twinkled. Ang excitement na naramdaman ay tila dumoble pa.

“Surprise me with that place then.”

He smirked. “You’d like it.”

“Are you sure?”

“Uh-huh. I know your likes.”

But he didn’t know that she likes him?

“I’m just gonna take a nap after lunch. Then we will go to that place, how’s that?”

“Anytime you want, Yelena. I’ll be around.”

After they talked, Zacariel went back to the horse stable. While Lupita showed her her bedroom. Her excitement made her energetic.

Iniisip niya kung saan siya dadalhin ni Zacariel mamaya?

3 ~ WATERFALLS

CHAPTER THREE

THINKING about what they going to do for the rest of the day and where Zacariel Guerrera will take her, stopped her from having a siesta.

Yelena took a cold shower and put some powder on her face after. Pinaghandaan niya rin talaga ang mga susuotin na damit sa bakasyon niyang ’yon at hindi mawawala ang mga jeans at long sleeves to protect her skin from the heat of sunlight whenever she’s in the field. She also bought equestrian clothing so she would feel comfortable to ride a horse.

Kinatok siya ni Lupita nang pumatak na ang alas-tres ng hapon. Nagbilin siya rito na gisingin siya sa ganoong oras dahil gusto niyang makasiguro na makakasama siya kay Zacariel.

“Naghihintay na sa kwadra si Senyorito,” anito sa kanya.

Lupita simply scanned her. Nang bumalik ang tingin nito sa mukha niya, ngumiti siya.

“Ayos lang ba itong suot ko, Lupita?”

Yelena is on her cream v-neck fitted long sleeved, skinny jeans and ankle boots. Naka-tuck in ang pang-itaas niya kaya nakita ang hubog ng katawan niya.

“Basta komportable ka, Senyorita.”

“I’m comfortable. And this is how ate Zakia and Zalanna’s dressed up whenever they ride their horses, right? Aside from equestrian outfit.”

“Oo, Senyorita. Ganyan sila manamit kapag naglilibot sa buong hacienda.”

She got the outfit ideas from the Guerrera’s sisters. She really admired Zalanna and Zakia. Sayang nga at may pinagkakaabalahan daw sa Maynila kaya hindi pa muna uuwi sa hacienda. She’s looking forward though, to at least see them before her vacation ends.

“Hinanda ko na rin ang maiinom at snacks ninyo ni Senyorito Zacariel. Naibigay ko na sa kanya ang mga ’yon kanina bago ako nagpunta rito.”

“Salamat, Lupita.”

“Walang anoman, Senyorita. Mag enjoy ka at mag ingat kayo.”

Kasabay niya itong bumaba sa hagdan. Matagal ng kasambahay ng mga Guerrera si Lupita at matagal na rin silang magkakilala dahil bata palang siya ay naglalagi na siya sa hacienda.

“May girlfriend ba si Zacariel?” kyoryosong tanong niya.

That made Lupita paused for awhile. Tapos ay umiling.

“Hindi ko alam kung mayroon.”

“Wala ba siyang dinadalang babae rito?”

Halata sa itsura ni Lupita na hindi komportable na sagutin ang mga tanong niya. Pero gusto niyang malaman. Si Lupita lang ang mapagtatanungan niya na alam niyang makakakuha siya ng tapat na sagot.

“Come on, Lupita. I am just curious. Sige na, answer me. Ano? May dinadala ba siyang babae rito?”

“Si Miss Francha lang babaeng dinala ni Senyorito Zacariel dito.”

“Who’s Francha?” ’Yon bang babae sa birthday party ni Donya Zarita?

“Kaklase niya noong college. Kasama niya si Miss Francha noong birthday ng Donya Zarita.”

“Gusto mo ba si Francha para kay Zacariel?”

Binalikan niya ng tingin si Lupita nang nasa huling baitang na sila.

“No comment ako riyan, Senyorita Yelena.”

Umirap siya. “Huh, kahit naman magkarelasyon sila ngayon, hindi naman sila ang magkaktuluyan sa huli.”

Animo sumpa ang sinabi niya bago iniwan si Lupita at dumeretso sa kwadra.

Seeing Zacariel petting his black horse somehow ease the annoyance that she felt awhile ago. Like his dark horse, he’s also carries a dark aura that can intimidate people who don’t know him.

Guerreras’ men always have that kind of aura that could make women admired them and at the same time thinks if they deserve them. If they did not have the same status in life, she would feel small being with him. She would doubt herself too.

The reason why she’s also confident is because she’s aware about the influence of her family in town. So no more doubts when it comes to liking a man like him if they would only based on their life’s status. Kung mayroon man siyang dapat ikabahala, iyon ay ang tila matibay na prinsipyo nito na hindi mababali ng basta dahil lang sa isang utos na pakasal sa kanya.

Is it still possible to marry him in the future? When he seemed like already having a woman that he wants for his life? A woman that is successful and independent.

When Zacariel’s eyes travelled from her face to her body, her breathing paused for a moment. Nawala ang mga iniisip niya dahil naagaw na nito ang atensyon niya.

“Hi, I’m ready!” she waved cutely at him.

Zacariel leered and hold the rope of his horse.

“May pangalan ba siya?”

“Yes. Silencio.”

“Cool name!” she caressed the horse’ back. “Hey, Silencio, it’s nice to meet you. I’m Yelena.”

Magaan ang tungo niya sa mga hayop. Sadyang may takot lang siyang sumakay sa kabayo. Pero sa mga sandaling ’yon, ang takot niya ay unti-unting napapalitan nang nakakanginig na tuwa.

“Come,” he commanded and patted the horse saddle.

She took a steps forward until she’s in front of him and they are beside Silencio. She can smell his manly scent.

“Are you scared?” He muttered from behind.

Napalunok siya at umiling. “I’m not.”

“Good. There’s nothing to be scared of.”

Zacariel held her waist and the electrifying sensation she felt from his callous palm made her shiver.

He lifted her and she parted her legs so she can properly sit on the saddle. She gripped on the horn for a balance when he removed his hands from her waist.

“Zacariel!” she called him nervously when the horse moved because he rode from behind.

Her heart is beating rapidly for some reason. Hindi niya alam kung dahil ba kabado na nakasakay na sa wakas sa kabayo, o dahil nasa likod niya ang binata.

“Where I’m gonna…uh, s-saan ako hahawak?”

He held the rope that made her feel his arms touching hers. He’s jailing her but she’s still doubtful that she’s not gonna fall once the horse will start to move.

“Relax,” he said calmly. “I won’t let you fall.”

Kinagat niya ang pang-ibabang labi. She’s still so nervous despite of the comfort that his words gave her. Hindi siya nito hahayaang mahulog, dapat ay pagkatiwalaan niya ang tila pangako na ’yon.

She checked her position one more time before she noticed the veins on his forearms down to the back of his hands. His tanned-skin that matted with thin hair made him looked virile. Even the way he’s holding the rope, is very manly. There’s a control from his hold and also a bit of aggressiveness.

Wala sa sarili na humawak siya sa matipunong braso ni Zacariel habang ang isang kamay ay nanatili sa horn. When the horse started to walk in a normal pace, Yelena held her breath then let it out slowly.

He didn’t mind her holding onto his arm. It seemed like her touch doesn’t matter to him, or her, being with him, don’t really affect him. Samantalang siya, halos marinig niya ang kalabog ng dibdib.

Nakalabas na sila sa Hacienda at kasalukuyang binabaybay ang malubak na daan papunta sa dulo ng lupain ng mga Guerrera.

Nagtatayugan at animo walang katapusang mga puno ng niyog ang nakikita niya sa kaliwang bahagi nila. Nagsasayawan ang mga luntiang sanga sa ilalim ng mapusyaw na asul na langit na nahalinhinan ng matingkad na kulay tansong tinipak-tipak na mga ulap at maayos na isinalansan sa napakahiwagang paraan. At ang anino nila na sumasayad sa lupa habang sakay ng kabayo ay tila nakaw na larawang madamdaming ipininta sa nagkukulay putik na papel.

Ang imahe na ’yon ay nagpamangha sa kanya. Kaya nawala ang atensyon niya sa paligid at nanatili ang mga mata sa lupa at pinagmasdan kung paano tumakbo si Silencio habang tila yakap siya ni Zacariel mula sa likod.

That put a smile on her lips.

“Nakikita mo ba ang anino natin?”

“Uh-huh,” he breathed.

His focus is with the horse and the road, she did not even expect him to take a look with their shadow. Kaya naman nagkaroon ng munting kasiyahan ang puso niya dahil doon.

“If only I could paint, I’d surely paint this image… of us.”

The sile ce stretched again. Silencio’s neighs is not that loud like other horses.

Yelena rested her back on Zacariel’s chest. She felt the hardness of it but also the warmth that it gives her.

The feeling of being with the man that you liked is like living with your own world. Gano’n ang nararamdaman niya sa mga sandaling ’yon. Tahimik siyang nangangarap na sana ay magpatuloy iyon hanggang sa dumating ang panahon na pwede na… na pwede silang magsama nang walang nakaharang na aberya.

Tinahak nila ang daan papasok sa gubat. Halos malapit na sila sa dulo ng lupain ng mga Guerrera. Sa kabilang bahagi nag-uumpisa naman ang lupain ng mga Altamonte. They are really neighbors.

Dumilim ang paligid dahil natatabunan ng makakapal na sanga ng puno ang sinag ng araw. Halata rin sa lugar na walang nagpupunta roon. Kung hindi niya kasama si Zacariel, tiyak na matatakot siya.

Habang papalapit sila, naririnig niya ang tila lagaslas ng tubig. Halos talunin no’n ang huni ng mga ibon.

Yelena is in awe when they finally reached their destination. In front of her is the majestic waterfalls. She never thought that there’s that kind of place inside Hacienda Guerrera. It was hidden, magical and peaceful.

“Woah, Zacariel…” she lost for words.

Nilingon niya ito at naabutan niyang naghihintay lang ng atensyon niya.

The way his eyes move seemed like he’s memorizing every part of her face. She noticed the changes of her heartbeat every time he’s staring at her or every time that he’s around.

“This is magical… so beautiful…” she told him with a glimpse of amazement on her eyes.

“I’m glad you liked this place.”

“I loved this! I could stay here and build my own world!”

He chuckled. “I’d like to build a small house here. Pahingahan… kapag nandito.”

Mas lalo siyang natuwa at naging interesado.

“Talaga? Kailan? Pwede ba akong sumama?”

He didn’t say a word. He just watch the way the water falls dramatically down the river. Pagkatapos ay aagos iyon palayo… at hindi niya alam ang hangganan no’n.

Naunang bumaba si Zacariel sa kabayo. Pagkatapos ay inalalayan siyang makababa. May isang lamesa at upuan na pangdalawahan ang naroon na gawa sa kahoy. Tila ba kanina pa naghihintay sa pagdating nila.

The water feels cold but it’s also inviting. She’s so tempted to have a dip. Wala lang siyang dalang extra na damit pangpalit. At kung maghuhubad siya, hindi ba awkward ’yon? But, who cares, right? She’s wearing a nice pair of underwear and she has a fine body.

“I wanna take a dip…” she told him with a small smile.

Zacariel glanced at her after he puts the foods and drink on that small rounded table.

“Is the water deep?”

“Not really,” he scanned her body that made her swallowed. “Probably the water would level your chest.”

“I’m fine with it. Uh, I’m really tempted to jump. But I don’t have an extra clothes with me.”

He finally faced her. Giving her all his attention. He placed his left arm on his chest, then rested his right elbow above it as he plays with his lower lips with his thumb. He looked like he’s thinking on what to do to help her solve her little problem.

She’s kinda distracted with the veins on his forearms that she needs to furrow her eyebrows to make her looks like she’s also thinking on what to do.

“Are you not tempted?”

His eyes never leave hers. “I am.”

Napalunok siya at hindi sigurado kung bakit may init na dumaan sa batok niya.

“Would you mind if I take off my clothes?” She gave him an apologetic smile.

“I won’t mind. Do whatever that please you, Yelena. Feel free.”

Ang ngiti niya ay naging ngisi na kulang nalang ay tumalon siya sa tuwa. Kakaiba ang ginhawang naramdaman niya sa pagpayag nito sa nais niya. Tila ba handa ito na sundin ang anomang gusto niya at walang lakas upang pigilan siya.

“I thought you’re going to stop me.”

His lips stretched into a lazy smile. Then, he shook his head for her to know that he won’t.

“You have your freedom when you’re with me. I won’t stop you for the things that you want to do.”

Suddenly, she felt emotional. She never thought that she would hear him say those words. That matters to her so much because she never felt free her whole life. Palaging tila may hahadlang sa mga gusto niyang gawin sa buhay. Mas lamang ang haharang sa kanya kaysa ang sumusuporta.

Yelena blinked because she felt the heat on the sides of her eyes. Itinawa niya ang namuong damdamin.

“T-thank you. That’s what I really need.”

“I know,” his words were taken away by the sounds of the waterfalls.

Tinalikuran niya ito at tiningala ang pagbagsak ng tubig sa harap. Animo diyamante ang pagkislap ng mga ’yon at sa paraan ng pagdaloy palayo, para bang hindi na babalik.

Yelena closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She wants to feel the peacefulness again. She don’t want to be emotional. The fact that she knows that she has her freedom with Zacariel, comforts her. It also strengthens her hopes that maybe there’s really a chance for them… maybe he would agree with arranged-marriage.

Why don’t she ask him? If she really wants the answer, she should ask him, right?

Bakit ba hindi nila pag-usapan iyon? Masyado bang maaga pa dahil wala pa siya sa ligal na edad? Kung gano’n, ayos lang din sa kanya. She will just enjoy his company. She will cherish their memories together.

She removed her boots before she unzipped her pants. Nakangiti na nilingon niya si Zacariel na seryoso siyang pinagmamasdan.

Even though he’s watching her removing her clothes, she don’t feel any malice from him. Sa katunayan, mas ramdam niya ang kalayaan na gawin ang gusto nang walang pumipigil sa kanya.

She comfortable removed down her pants and her top, revealing her fancy pair of underwear. Inilapag niya sa may kalakihang bato ang mga damit bago excited na tumalon sa tubig.

Yelena gasped with coldness of the water. Sinakop niyon ang buong katawan niya. At nang i-ahon ang ulo galing sa ilalim habang nakapikit, mas lalo niyang nanaig ang lamig. She’s trembling already but it didn’t stop her from enjoying the moment.

“The water is so cold and very refreshing!” she told Zacariel who’s now sitting at the wooden chair and his attention is on her.

She waved at him. His face remained stoic though.

“Kapag nagpunta ka ulit dito, isama mo ako, ha? Gusto ko rito, Zacariel. I feel free here. I love this place already!”

She’s been with different places, inside and outside of the country, but she never felt that kind of freedom that she’s feeling at the moment. It’s surprising. She’s amazed how a place can gives her serenity and make her feel likes she’s really free.

Yelena swam until the water falls on her head down to her body. Tuwang-tuwa siya habang pakaway-kaway kay Zacariel.

“Don’t go further than where you are. There are sharp stones there. Baka masugatan ka,” bilin nito sa kanya.

“Okay! Thanks for reminding me. Why don’t you join me here by the way?”

She saw him took a breath. “I will later.”

She wants that summer vacation to be memorable. So she have something special to reminisce when she was alone and he was away.

Indeed, that summer vacation with him a few months before she turns eighteen was very special… and also unexpectedly painful.

Looking back on those days and the wound that it caused her, made her realized that she’s still really affected with what happened. She can still feel the bitterness on her heart. And that’s sucks!

Yelena heaved a sigh and shook her head to erase those memories with Zacariel Guerrera last summer.

4 ~ SATISFACTION (SPG)

CHAPTER FOUR

“YOU know what, why don’t we go out and party? That’s what you need, Yelena. Don’t make yourself stress with what your mother’s told you.”

Tinignan niya si Santi na nakapameywang sa harap niya. They are done with their class for that day and instead of going to the Mall like what they usually do, they went straight to his condo unit. She’s not really in the mood. Talagang iniisip niya ang sinabi ng mommy niya na may napili na ang mga itong lalaki para sa kanya.

Pahiga palang siya sa kama ay pinigil na siya ng kaibigan. Hinawakan nito ang kamay niya at umiling.

“Hindi kita papayagan na magmukmok dito. Get up and get dress. We will go to D’ Club.”

Maybe, that’s what she needs, huh? To enjoy her life to the fullest while she’s still single? Dahil kapag ikinasal na siya, hindi niya na magawa ang mga gusto niyang gawin!

“I just wanna be free…” she weakly said. “Why they can’t just give me my freedom? I deserve that, Santi.”

Naaawa na tinignan siya ng kaibigan. Umupo ito sa gilid ng kama at hinaplos ang buhok niya.

“Gusto mo tayo nalang ang magpakasal?” ngumisi ito, halatang hindi seryoso.

“Then what? You gonna cheat on me with our bodyguards? No way!”

Santi laughed. “My new bodyguard is so hot.”

Yelena rolls her eyes.

Santi have have one bodyguard, a personal driver and a house helper with him. His bodyguard is young and very professional. Kung hindi nila kakausapin, hindi magsasalita.

“Don’t you dare flirt with your bodyguard. Baka mag resign ’yon. Sige ka…”

“I won’t. I know he’s straight. I will just admire him secretly,” he smiles. “Like how you admire Zacariel-”

“Uh, I don’t wanna hear his damn name.”

“Bitter! Hindi ka pa rin nakaka-move on?”

“Naka move-on na ako-”

“Talaga?” putol nito sa kanya. “Balita ko ay narito siya sa Maynila. Paano kung magkita kayo? Anong gagawin mo?”

“I’m gonna ignore him. I don’t want to see him too!”

Tumayo si Santi. “Hindi ako naniniwala na ayaw mo siyang makita. He’s currently managing their company because Kuya Zacarias is busy with something else.”

“I don’t care,” she sneered.

Simula noong huling pagkikita nila, hindi na siya nakibalita pa kung ano na ang nangyayari sa buhay ni Zacariel. The heartbreaks that he gave her was enough for her to stop wanting him. She lost her hopes and her dreams for them.

“I also stalked Francha on social media, they are not together anymore. Siguro break na sila.”

Yelena get up from bed and went to the cabinet. Magkahiwalay sila ng kwarto ni Santi. Kung hindi ito ang mananatili sa silid niya para makipag-kwentuhan, siya naman ang nasa silid nito. Palitan lang sila.

“Single na ulit si Zacariel. May pag-asa ka na, Yelena.” Tukso nito.

Hinila niya ang kulay itim na short backless dress at ipinakita sa kaibigan.

“Is this fine? Then I’m gonna pair with stilettos?”

“A little daring, but it will surely suits you.”

After an hour, Santi called his driver to pick them up and bring to D’ Club. It is located in BGC and one of the popular Club in Metro.

It’s her first time there but Santi already been there before. Pagpasok palang nila ay sumalubong na ang maingay na musika, malikot na mga ilaw, at ang halimuyak ng alak.

They get a table for two, just in front of the dance floor. They order a cocktails and started to sways their body because the music is really giving them a good vibes.

“Let’s dance!” she held Santi’s hand and dragged him to the dance floor.

At dahil parehong mahilig sumayaw, ganadong-ganado agad kahit kadarating lang at wala pang alak na lumalapat sa katawan.

They can only party like that when they are in Manila. They both feel the freedom that they wanted. They both have an issue with their family and to feel that they can live freely even just a couple of days, was already a big deal to them.

“Shit! Look… look…” Santi’s voice wasn’t clear because of the loud music.

“What? What did you say?”

I ilalim ni Santi ang bibig sa tenga niya para marinig niya ang sasabihin nito.

“I think… I saw Zacariel!”

Mabilis na inilibot niya ang mga mata pero medyo maraming tao at madilim doon kaya hindi niya nakita ang binata.

“Reall? Where?”

“Second floor! VIPs area! Look up!”

Tinignan niya ang pangalawang palapag ng Club. There are also people there, men and women. On the corner, she saw the familiar built of a man, holding a glass of liquor, while his both elbows were rested on the railings.

Nang mapunta ang tingin niya sa mukha nito, gano’n nalang ang kalabog ng puso niya nang naabutan itong sa kanya nakatingin.

Their eyes met despite of the darkness and wildness of the surrounding. It felt like he’s been there… secretly watching her and waiting for her to notice him.

Yelena avoided Zacariel’s eyes and continued to dance. She acted like she didn’t see him and pretended that everything is just fine, but deep inside, her heart is beating so fast and loud like the music that echoes around.

“Let’s go back to our table. I’m thirsty,” she said to Santi.

Of all the places, to see Zacariel in a Club was the one that she didn’t expect. So… that’s what he does in Manila? Go to a Club after a long day on his office?

“Hey, hey, relax,” Santi laughed and held her hand to stop her from taking another shot of tequila.

“What? I have a high tolerance on alcohol. No worries.”

“I know, but it’s still early to get tipsy. Kadarating lang natin. Gusto ko pang sumayaw.”

“Let’s dance after this,” she took another shot and winced when she felt the heat on her throat down to her stomach.

Santi took a shot too and stood up after. He’s ready to go to dance floor but she wants to go the restroom.

“Susunod ako,” aniya rito. “Just need to retouch.”

Santi gave him a teasing smile and looked up to where is Zacariel.

“Maganda ka na. Pero kung gusto mo pang magpaganda lalo, go ahead. Don’t forget to spray a perfume! Para kapag nilapitan ka ni Zacariel, sa amoy mo palang ay maakit na!”

“I’m not gonna do that for him!”

“Whatever, Yelena. Let’s just enjoy the night!”

Naglakad siya papunta kung nasaan ang restroom. Kailangan niya pang daanan ang hagdan papunta sa VIP area. Maingat ang bawat hakbang niya dahil mataas ang takong ng sapatos. Bukod pa roon, iniiwasan niya rin na mabangga siya ng kung sino.

When she got near the stairs, a group of tipsy girls ran towards the dance floor behind her and one of them crinkly bumped her shoulder that made her lose her balance.

Napamura siya nang matapilok at hindi makahanap ng makakapitan para hindi matumba. She was so ready with the worse part but a warm palm held her waist, saving her from falling to the ground.

Mariin siyang pumikit. Medyo nahilo sa malikot na galaw ng mga ilaw. Napahawak siya sa kamay na nasa bewang niya upang doon kumuha ng lakas para makatayo ulit ng maayos.

She moved her foot but she felt the pain on it. Pakiramdam niya ay may naipit na ugat. Kaya imbes na makatayo ng tuwid, ay nanghina ang tuhod niya.

“Ouch…” she murmurs.

“Let me help you,” that familiar voice from behind made her eyes widened.

She tried to look at him over her shoulder, but she stopped herself. Baka nagkakamali lang siya?

“N-no, I’m fine,” she tried to get away from his hold but when she moved her feet again, she felt more pain. “I don’t need your help.”

But he didn’t listen, instead he carry her in a bridal style as if her weight doesn’t matter to him!

“Zacariel! I said, I’m fine!” she slapped his hard chest.

“I need to make sure that you are,” his voice was cold.

Yelena gulped and felt annoyed because of the wild beating of her heart. His effects on her didn’t change even a bit! Parang hibang pa rin ang puso niya na tumitibok dahil dito.

“Why do you suddenly care?”

They exited through the backdoor. There are also parking there and he continued walking until he stopped infront of a black luxury car. He opened the driver seat door and put her down there.

She glared at him. “What now? Do you really think you can dominate me?”

He carefully removed her stilletos. Nang dumampi ang mga daliri nito sa balat niya, pakiramdam niya ay nanghina siya bigla.

Yelena moved her foot but she only winced when she felt the pain on her ankle. Masama yata talaga ang pagkatapilok niya.

“Bring me back to Santi. Baka hinahanap na ako ng kaibigan ko.”

“No, I’d like to talk.”

She gave him a sharp stares. Did he really think that he can get whatever he wants? Na kapag gusto nitong mag usap sila, ay mag-u-usap sila? Hindi siya pwedeng tumanggi? No! She won’t talk to him!

“There’s nothing to talk about, Zacariel. I don’t even want to have a conversation with you.”

His beautiful dark eyes when he looked at hers, made her stomach fluttered for some weird reason.

“I understand your anger. But I want you to hear me out.”

Kung plano nitong bumalik sila sa nakaraan, then there’s no need. Nakalipas na ’yon at tanggap niya na ang desisyon nito. Bakit pa nila babalikan? Para saan pa? Hanggat maaari ay ayaw niyang buksan muli ang yugto na iyon ng buhay niya.

“Bakit ka pa nagpakita? Iniiwasan na nga kita!”

He swallowed that made his Adam’s apple moved. Kahit ang paglunok nito ay pansin na pansin niya.

“I just think that this is the right time to make things clear between us.”

Is she really ready for that kind of conversation with him? Dahil alam niyang babalik talaga sila sa nakaraan at alam niya and sugat na idinulot niyon sa kanya.

“It was already cleared to me that you don’t want to be involved with me and my family. Kaya wala na tayong dapat pag-usapan pa.”

“It’s not like that. I have my reasons why I did not…” he desperately sighed.

May dumaang grupo ng kababaihan at kalalakihan kaya medyo nahinto sila pansamantala sa usapan. Medyo maingay na rin dahil tumambay pa ang mga ito sa mga sasakyan na malapit lang sa kung nasaan sila.

“Can we continue this somewhere else? I want to talk with you privately.”

If she will allow him to talk with him to clear things between them, it will also give her peace of mind. Bago man lang siya ikasal sa iba ay may maayos na takbo ang puso’t isip niya.

Yelena moved to the next seat, so he can drive. When he started the engine, she got her phone from her pouch to text her bestfriend.

To: Santi I am with Zacariel. We will just talk. Wait for me there.

After a few minutes, he parked his car at the side of the road then unbuckled his seat belt tiredly.

The silence stretched for a couple of minutes, before she breaks it.

“It’s okay… I know you’re not that type… I know that you won’t allow other people to interfere with your life and with your choices. Don’t be guilty, I may be young but I understand why…” Her voice shook a bit. “…why you chose not to-”

“You completely misunderstood me.”

Tinignan niya ito nang magkasalubong ang kilay. Hindi siya sigurado kung bakit parang mas lalo itong gumwapo ngayong mukhang pinipigilan lang ang ma-stress.

Her eyes wandered on his muscled arms, on his broad chest, down to his stomach and on his belt. Napalunok siya nang hindi sinasadya na mahagip ng mga mata ang nakaumbok sa pagitan ng mga hita nito. He’s wearing a khaki pants, the reason why the bulge is so obvious.

“Yelena,” the warning on his tone made her mind went back from those peaceful afternoon inside the nipa hut with him.

Uminit ang pisngi niya nang walang pahintulot na rumihistro ang mga imahe niyang pawisan, nakahubad, habang nasa pagitan ng mga hita niya ang ulo ni Zacariel.

They really did that! Kaya rin siguro hirap na hirap siyang kalimutan ito dahil sa kaliguran na ipinaranas sa kanya.

She groaned when those memories flashes her mind without her wanting. Not right now that she’s with him!

Zacariel faced him. He really wants to talk with her about their past, and here she is thinking about their stolen and heated memories in that waterfalls.

Isinandal niya ang ulo sa inuupuan at mariin na ipinikit ang mga mata. She can’t believe with herself! She don’t even like he idea that she feels like she’s getting turn on. It was always like that whenever she thinks about what he did to her last summer!

“What are you thinking?” He sounded a bit bothered because of her reaction.

“Just tell me what you want to tell me, Zacariel.”

“No. Tell me what’s on your mind.”

Nag-ngitngit ang kalooban niya. Hindi nakakatulong na kahit ang boses nito ay nagbibigay ng pamilyar na damdaming ipinakilala nito sa kanya. It’s very frustrating that she can’t forget him despite of the heartbreaks.

“I should’ve stop myself from hoping that there would be us in the end,” she bitterly muttered. “I almost gave myself to you because I thought we felt the same.”

“I didn’t want you to compeletly submit yourself to me.”

“I know! I was very…” she can’t finish her sentence.

She liked him so much that she really thought about giving herself to him. But he was in full control and he knew their limits. It didn’t happen. Because he didn’t want to.

Doon palang, dapat naliwanagan na siya na ayaw nga talaga sa kanya ni Zacariel. She chose to be blind and continued to dream that he would marry her.

“You don’t really like me…” the sadness on her own voice made her heart hurt.

He groaned like something is wrong and he can’t stand that.

Magaan niya itong nginitian. After all, she can’t really stay mad at him. Talagang nangingibabaw ang pagkagusto niya rito na kayang tunawin ang galit niya.

“You don’t like young girls… you like girls your age. The reason why you didn’t take my virginity even if I wanted to.”

“Baby, did you really think that I’d heartlessly take you when I knew that you were a minor? Tang ina, hinding-hindi ko gagawin ang kasalanan na ’yon.”

See how much she’s crazy about him? She was really willing to give all herself to him!

“And now that I’m eighteen, you will still be the same Zacariel that will refuse me, right?”

It was the very first time she was rejected and it was him who did it. The impact was heavy that it really broke her young heart.

“Who told you that?” He moved his body forward that she can smell his manly scent.

Nag-init ang magkabilang gilid ng mga mata niya dahil pakiramdam niya ay bumalik ang sakit nang matanto niyang ayaw sa kanya ni Zacariel. Lahat ng pag-asa at pangarap niya para sa kanila ay naglaho ng gano’n lang.

Yelena can’t stop the tears from rolling down her cheeks. She don’t want to hear him refuse her again. She don’t want any rejection from him. It’s scary to like someone so much because they could easily hurt you.

“I’m sorry…” he whispered gently as he kiss her tears away.

When his lips get near hers, she closed her eyes and waited for a miracle to happen that he would kiss her again like what he used before.

A part of her felt happy when his lips claimed hers in a feverish way that urged her to give in, and allowed him again to own her… abd this time, undoubtedly and completely.

Yelena moaned between their hot kisses when she felt Zacariel’s fingers found her nipple. He plays with it while his other palm is on her thighs, sensually caressing her there.

“Zacariel…” she whimpered then kiss him more as she started to enjoy his finger teasing her femininity.

Drawned by their heated kiss and his sensual touch, she succumb with the temptation. She’s very aware with what they are doing and longing for it was enough to give herself a freedom to be happy even just for a short moment.

“I wanna taste you,” he whispered huskily on her earlobe that tickles her.

“H-here?”

He massaged her breast as his finger kept on teasing her womanhood against the thin fabric of her panties. The thrill of doing a thing that is prohibited is giving her stomach a familiar butterflies. He’s the only one that can make her feel that way.

“Yeah, I just want you to part you legs…” he then slid his middle finger under her underwear that made her gasp.

Parang umikot ang paligid nang pasadahan ng mahabang daliri nito ang hiwa ng pagkababae niya sa mabagal at nakakaliyong paraan.

He clicked something to make her seat adjusted. She’s almost laying now with sleepy eyes while watching him being carried away with the sensation.

When his kisses travelled to her stomach and legs, she willingly parted her legs to welcome his head in between.

Her eyes shut closed the moment she felt his hot tongue devours her flesh. He was tasting her and making sure that he’s giving every corner of her femininity an enough attention that it needs.

Nakaawang ang labi niya at patuloy sa masasarap na daing habang masarap na lumalapat ang dila nito sa namimintig na pagkababae niya.

It felt like a dream to feel his tongue again on that part of her body. She never thought it would happen again. But, life is indeed full of surprises. You’d never know what would happen next, so you better be ready for it.

“Aah, Zacariel… mmm…” she grips on his hair as if her life was depended on it.

He hugs her thighs and pinned her down before he suck the most sensitive part of her body.

Kinagat niya ang pang-ibabang labi upang pigilan ang malakas na ungol nang makaramdam ng matinding sarap habang tila uhaw na sinisipsip ng binata ang sensitibong kuntil ng pagkababae niya.

Yelena’s legs shook and the heat on her lower abdomen was about to come out. Her toes curled while she’s massaging his nape. Her sleepy eyes watches him pleasing her with his skilful tongue.

“I’m gonna… oohh! S-shit! Zacariel! Aahh!” Her loud moan echoed inside his car when she reached her climax.

Narinig niyang nagmura ito habang hinihimod ng dila ang mainit na likidong inilabas niya.

Her body gets weak and she felt like she couldn’t move anymore. Her energy was taken away from her, but she can’t deny the satisfaction that she felt.

5 ~ QUERENCIA

CHAPTER FIVE

ISINAMA siya ni Zacariel sa sumunod pa na araw sa waterfalls. They are using Hilux this time and they brought materials to build at least a shed to stay.

Siguradong babalik at babalik sila doon dahil hindi naman buong araw matatapos ang pagtayo ng masisilungan nila at pahingahin na rin kapag naroon sila sa lugar na ’yon.

She’s wondering what to call to the waterfalls. Mas magandang may pangalan ang lugar dahil kakaiba ’yon at espesyal.

“Did you ever think about naming the waterfalls?” she asked when the car entered the forest.

Nakabukas ang bintana ng sasakyan kaya naman nalanghap niya agad ang malamig na simoy ng hangin at narinig ang iba’t-ibang klaseng tunog ng mga ibon at hayop na naninirahan doon. Natanto niya na napaka-swerte ng mga ito dahil napapaligiran ng mga luntiang puno’t halaman, mapreskong hangin, tamang sikat ng araw, at higit sa lahat, payapang paligid.

Sometimes, that’s what people’s need. To be in a place where you can feel the real peacefulness and the freedom, that you can’t find even at your own home.

There was always a special place that would make you come back despite of the distance and the rough roads to get through it. And for her, she already found that kind of place that she would always think of going back. And that is the waterfalls.

“No,” he answers shortly then maneuvered the 4x4 pickup.

Yelena couldn’t help but to notice Zacariel’s physical appearance. He really changed especially the aura around him. She can feel the wall that he built between them and at the same time it also make her feel that she can break that wall if she wants to, and he can’t do about it if she did.

“Would you mind me giving the waterfalls a name?”

Zacariel glanced at her. There’s no emotion on his face though. But even if he’s silent most of the time, with just one glance at her, her heart really reacts violently.

“I wouldn’t mind.”

“Okay! Mag naisip na ako. I’ve been thinking about this last night.”

“What is it?”

He stopped the car. Sa unahan ay nakita niya na ang payapang pagbuhos ng tubig galing sa itaas, pababa sa kumikinang at nagkukulay berde at asul na tubig. It’s amazing how the water changes color depends on the sunlight.

“Querencia…” she muttered as she watches how the majestic water falls freely and endlessly.

It made him paused for a seconds before he looks at her again.

She forces a smile, hoping that he would agree to the name. But why not? It’s a perfect name for the place. Because she felt free there… she felt like she found a home that she can be herself.

“Is that fine? Querencia means-”

“I know the meaning,” the side of his lips curved up. “And yes, it’s fine. Whatever you like, Yelena.”

Her smile grew wider. Maybe the other reason why she likes to be in Querencia is also because she’s with Zacariel.

While the place gives her peace, Zacariel gives her freedom without asking in return.

He never stopped her from doing what she wants even before. Kahit pa may mga bagay noon na hindi payag ang magulang niya pero kapag kay Zacariel ay pwede naman.

The feeling of having someone who will truly support and understand you is already a blessing for her. If only her parents and grandfather would do that, she wouldn’t have a problem with her family.

Kahit na nasanay na pinagsisilbihan siya, pinilit niya pa rin na siya na ang maghanda ng pagkain na i i luto ni Lupita para sa kanila ni Zacariel sa araw na ’yon.

Yelena prepared the foods and drink on the table. She picked a sliced of watermelon to eat. Si Zacariel naman ay nagbababa ng mga materyales.

She don’t mind watching him all day building their little house. Pakiramdam niya ay hindi siya maboboring kahit panonood lang gagawin niya. Well, she’s also willing to help if he needs to. But by looking at him, it seemed like he won’t allow her to carry any of those heavy materials.

“Ilang araw bago makapagpatayo ng shed? Or can we call it cabana? Like those cabanas on the beach?”

He put down a couple of woods. Pinagpagan nito ang mga kamay, tapos ay binigyan siya ng atensyon.

He’s wearing a cotton shirt and he’s already sweating. Bumabakat na ang matipunong dibdib nito dahil sa pagkabasa ng damit. His faded pants and boots looked rouge and hot.

Kinunot niya ang noo nang matanto kung paano niya ilarawan ang binata sa harap niya. Did she really find him hot?

“I can finish this probably until tomorrow. This is just a shed. Para hindi ka mainitan kapag nandito tayo.”

“But I want cabana style, Zacariel,” she insisted, without realizing his reason why he will build a shed.

He sighed, then nods his head. “I will need more materials if that’s what you want.”

“Pwede tayong bumili bukas ng maaga? Tapos, dito tayo dumeretso para magpatuloy sa pagtatayo ng cabana?”

Nanliit ang mga mata nito habang nakatingin sa kanya. She’s sitting casually on the wooden chair while eating watermelon.

“A white curtain is enough as a door. Can we also bring a thin mattress and some pillows here? It’s nice to sleep here in the afternoon. What do you think?”

Mula sa paglapag ulit ng ilang kahoy, tinignan siya ni Zacariel.

She always made sure that she has a beautiful smile whenever he’s looking at her. She wants to brighten his days with her smiles.

“You can ask Lupita to prepare those things for you. Ikaw na ang bahala kung ano ang mga gusto mong dalhin dito. But…” his lips were in a thin line, as if he’s thinking if his decision is right or what.

“I won’t bring my wardrobe here. No worries,” she winked at him, that made him leered.

Tinalikuran siya nito at bumalik sa Hilux para hakutin ang ilan pang materyales.

After an hour or so, he finally done digging holes. That works really made him sweat that he needed to take off his shirt.

Yelena gulped when she saw his upper body. His muscles are on the right places and the ripped on his flat stomach is really eye catching. Women surely drooled over him.

Zacariel put down the shovel and walked towards where she is. Naroon siya sa kahoy na upuan, kaharap ang pagkain nila. Naghihintay na matapos ito para sabay silang kakain.

“You must be thirsty. Here,” she handed him a glass of cold water.

Tinanggap naman nito ’yon at uminom. Pati ang paglunok nito ay napansin niya. At ang mga mata niya ay walang pahintulot na naglakbay sa katawan ng binata.

His chest was matted with thin hair. And down to his lower abdomen is a line of thin hair… that she don’t want to think where it will ends.

She almost jumped on her feet when he faked a cough. Para siyang estudyante na nahuli ng guro na nangongopya. Mabilis na inangat niya ang tingin sa mukha nito, at naabutan niyang medyo matalim ang tingin sa kanya. He really caught her ogling on his body!

“Can’t I look on your body?” She raised her brow. Siya pa talaga itong mapagmataas? “If you don’t want me to look on your body, then put on your shirt.”

“My shirt is wet and dirty.”

“You didn’t bring extra shirt?”

“It wasn’t on my mind.”

What was on his mind then?

“Right. Let’s eat na.”

He went to the water to wash his hands. Nang bumalik ay naupo sa tabi niya. She was about to give him rice, but he stopped her from holding her wrist.

“Let me,” he said and got the serving spoon from her hand.

He was the one who served foods for both of them. Though, she liked the idea of serving foods for him, it was also a good feeling that he did that to her.

Yelena take off her dress, leaving her with a tube black one piece bikini. She really made sure that she will look good on that piece. Sinukat niya pa iyon kagabi at humarap sa salamin para lang makita ang itsura niya.

She can say that she has a body that girls would admired of. Her legs were slender, her skin is soft and creamy white, her waist is small and her hips is wide enough to give her body a shape. Hinila niya pataas ang tela sa bandang dibdib upang hindi ’yon bumaba ng husto. Kaya lang, kumakawala talaga.

“Uh, I need to tighten the strings on my back,” she told Zacariel who’s busy measuring the woods.

Lumapit pa talaga siya rito para magpatulong.

“Here,” she turned her back on him to show the strings on her back.

She heard him sigh but of course he can’t ignore her.

“I can’t reach the strings. Ayos lang din naman kung hindi mahigpitan. I don’t mind being naked under the water.”

“Well, I would mind,” the sarcasm and annoyance on his tone was heard.

Ngumisi siya. “Tayong dalawa lang naman ang nandito, Zacariel. Walang ibang makakakita kung maghubad man ako-” she stopped when she felt his fingers on her bare skin.

Napalunok siya sa kuryenteng dumaloy sa ugat niya habang tahimik itong hinihigpitan ang tali ng bikini niya sa likod.

“I’m sure, you already seen a naked woman. Imposibleng, hindi.”

“Is this enough?” he asked darkly then tightened the strings for her to know if it’s okay or not.

Napangiwi siya dahil masyadong mahigpit iyon at masikit sa dibdib niya.

“It’s too tight. Naiipit ang dibdib ko, Zacariel.”

Napabuntonghininga ito at medyo niluwagan.

“How ’bout this?” his voice became raspy.

She can almost feel his breath at the back of her hair. Animo may munting paru-paro ang naglalakbay sa tiyan niya. The tingling sensation that he gives her was like thrilling.

“More, please.”

He loosened the strings a little bit more until she’s satisfied. Napahawak siya sa dibdib niya para masigurado na maayos ang lagay ng mga ’yon.

“Thank you.” She smiled at him.

Suplado itong nag iwas ng tingin at bumalik sa ginagawa.

She remain standing in front of him with her black one piece bikini. She crosses her arms above her chest.

“Gusto mo tulungan kita? I’m sure I can do the measurement.”

She saw him closed his eyes, as if trying to get more patience on something.

“I’ll let you know if I need help,” his tone was like a dismissal.

Zacariel didn’t even take a glance on her. His attention is on the wood and metro steel tape measure. He doesn’t want to be disturbed, but she kinda like to have his attention.

“Kapag nasa tubig na ako, hindi na kita matutulungan.”

“That’s what I want right now.”

Ngumuso siya.

So, he really don’t want people to disturb him when he’s working? Was he like this when he works in Manila? She could imagine their employees shutting their mouth whenever he’s around. Was he that strict?

“But Zacariel I’d like to help. Kahit mag measure lang.”

Yumukod pa siya sa harap nito para ipakita na interesado talaga siyang makatulong. He’s been working since they arrived this morning and it’s already late afternoon.

Nagtaas ito ng tingin sa kanya at napansin niya ang hindi sinasadyang pagdaan ng mga mata sa kanyang dibdib.

It felt like a naughty bulb lit inside her head and she couldn’t help to giggle silently. Did he finally notice her boobs?

She gave him a beautiful smile when he looks at her with a bit of darkness and irritation on his eyes.

“I’d be happy if you take a dip and leave me alone, Yelena.”

“Are you sure you don’t want my help?” pilit niya pa habang tila nanghahalina ang ngiti sa labi.

To work together is better than working alone, right? Why don’t he allow her? Besides, measuring is easy.

“Please, Zacariel…”

She heard him groaned. Kaunti nalang ay para bang mauubusan na ito ng pasensya at magagalit sa kanya dahil mapilit siya.

But, what did he look like when he was  mad? She’s thrilled to see how he reacts whenever he was angry or pissed off.

“Baby, I’d be really happy if you stay away from me for a moment,” namumungay ang mga mata nitong sabi.

Yelena’s cheeks burned because of his endearment.

“Go take a dip and wait for me there.”

Gusto niya pa sanang ipilit ang gusto kaya lang ay natunaw na agad ang puso niya sa paraang pagtitig nito sa kanya.

Gone the annoyance, it became gentle and full of patience for her.

Masaya siyang lumusong sa malamig na tubig. Her giggles and the chirping of the birds became music to their ears.

Her heart started beating rapidly again when she saw that Zacariel is done with what he was doing and ready to join her.

Tumalikod siya para magpanggap na hindi siya excited or affected sa paglapit nito sa kanya. Pero ang totoo ay naghuhumerentado na ang puso niya.

Tumingala siya at pinanood ang magaan na pagbagsak ng tubig malapit lang sa harap niya. The splash of the water and the sounds of it calmed her for a short while.

When she felt Zacariel behind her, the beating of her heart boomed again against her chest.

“I can’t still believe that I am in Hacienda Guerrera. This place is very special to me.”

“This will be our paradise,” his voice made her knees trembled a bit. Maybe because he’s very near to her.

She wants to face him but she’s worried her eyes would betray her and would give him idea what she really feels inside. She wasn’t ready yet to confess. She needs time for that.

“I will keep our memories together here, Zacariel. Palagi akong babalik dito.”

“Babalik lang ako dito kung ikaw ang kasama ko.”

Napangiti siya. That’s what the plan she made her mind. Naunahan lang siya nitong sabihin.

Slowly, she turned to face him. No matter how beautiful the waterfalls is, the man in front of her, deserves her attention too.

Their eyes met easily like usual. Madalas siyang mag iwas ng tingin ngunit sa mga sandaling iyon ay ayaw niya. She wants to give herself a freedom to stare at him as long as she can because she wouldn’t know what would happen to them after this summer vacation.

“Paano kung hindi na ako makabalik dito?”

His thick brows furrowed because of her random question. She just want to continue the conversation otherwise her heart would speak for her.

“Babalik tayo rito.”

“Paano nga kung hindi?”

“Then, I’ll make sure that you’d be back here, Yelena.”

She pursed her lips. Then plays with the water in front of them with her palms.

Sumalok siya ng tubig gamit ang mga palad at wala pang ilang segundo ay unti-unti rin na bumagsak ’yon pabalik kung saan niya kinuha. Para bang ipinaramdam lang sa kanya na bagamat kaya niyang kunin ang bagay na nais niya, ngunit mabilis din ’yong mawawala kung hindi naman talaga nakatadhana na manatili sa kanya.

“Susulitin ko nalang ang bawat sandali na nandito ako, Zacariel. I don’t really know what my parents plans for me on the next summer.”

“Wag mo munang isipin ’yon.”

She took a breath, then slowly let it out like how she let go of the crystal water on her palms.

“Kapag ikinasal ako, pupunta ka ba?” mahinang tanong niya na halos siya ay hindi narinig dahil sa lagaslas ng tubig sa may likod niya.

“If you’d invite me, yes,” he answered cooly.

Nang mag angat siya ng tingin dito, naabutan niyang nakatingin sa kanya na para bang kanina pa nag-aabang ng munti niyang atensyon.

He’d come to her wedding day. He didn’t even look like he’s affected that she’s going to marry another man. What does it mean? Did he refuse her parents proposal? That it’s fine with him if she marries some random guy? And not him?

It made Yelena confused. She wants to know the truth but at the same time she wasn’t ready to hear it.

“I don’t want to marry at the young age. I want to pursue fashion design. I want to achieve my dreams first. If my parents would force me to get married next year, I’d leave.”

That’s her plans. She don’t mean to say it to anyone aside from Santi. Her bestfriend knows almost all her future plans. To allow Zacariel to know her side about arranged-marriage was hard for her, but she felt like he needs to know that too.

“That’s my plan. Kaya hindi ako sigurado kung makakabalik ba ako rito sa next summer.”

He remained silent. He’s just listening while staring at her.

“That’s why I like it here because I feel free, Zacariel. I love my family but I hate our tradition. I hate it because it jails me… it stops me from what I want to do in my life.”

She sighed dramatically and slapped the water. Napapikit siya nang tumama ang mga ’yon sa mukha niya.

Then she felt his palm above her head. Marahan na hinaplos siya roon na tila ba ito lang tangi ang kayang umintindi sa kanya. She gets easily emotional whenever she talks about her problems with her family. Kaya naman hindi niya mapigilan ang pag-iinit nang magkabilang sulok ng mga mata.

“I hope your parents would give you more time to focus on yourself and your dreams first.”

“I doubt it. Sometimes, they are insensitive. Ang sabi ni mommy, masasayang lang ang oras ko sa fashion design dahil mag-a-asawa rin naman agad ko. She wants me to focus with my husband. Ayaw ko ngang mag-asawa pa!”

Narinig niya ang pagbuntonghininga ni Zacariel. He’s a very good listener. Wala naman talaga siyang balak mag open up ng problema niya, pero ipinaramdam nito sa kanya ang kalayaan na pwede niyang gawin ’yon sa harap nito.

“I swear, I’ll really leave home if they forced me to get married next year.”

“Yelena,” umiling-iling ito at hindi aprubado ang plano niya. “Running away from your problems won’t solve anything.”

“What would I do then?”

“We will make a plan about that. Running away wouldn’t be on the option.”

Malungkot siyang huminga. Kung kanina ay galit sa tubig, ngayon ay hindi na. Pinaglandas niya ang mga daliri sa ibabaw niyon sa mabagal na paraan. Pabalik-balik at paulit-ulit hanggang sa kumalma siya.

“Sasamahan mo akong tumakas? O tutulungan mo ako?”

“Hindi. Hindi ka tatakas.”

She stomped her foot on the water. “But I don’t want to get married. I don’t have other option.”

“Relax. I’ll handle this. Don’t stress yourself.”

Pursing her lips, she hopelessly rested her forehead on his chest.

He started to caress her hair with his palm. And honestly, it soothes her.

“Kung hahayaan lang nila akong pumili kung sino ang gusto ko, mas magiging madali siguro ang lahat.”

He paused for a seconds then resumed. “So… you already eyeing someone to marry? Do you like him that much?”

Umikot ang mga mata niya habang nakapikit.

He’s really oblivious with the girls that likes him? O hindi ba halata sa kanya na may gusto siya kay Zacariel?

“Even though I like him, I don’t think he’d like to get married to me though. So, maybe, it will be useless to tell my parents who I want.”

“You’re still seventeen. Wait until you turned eighteen and tell your parents who you want.”

“The question is… does he want me too?”

“Then, ask him that.”

Can she ask him right now?

Mariin siyang pumikit. The way he caress her hair makes her sleepy too.

Her cousins get married at legal age and got pregnant a months after the wedding. Posible rin na mangayri ’yon sa kanya. Naalarma siya bigla.

“Huh, I’m gonna use a birth control so I won’t get pregnant early,” she muttered without even realizing what kind of topic she just opened.

Though, she don’t see herself being married to a man, but sometimes she picture herself having a baby. Isn’t it strange to think about that stuffs? Na para bang mas masaya siya kung may anak siya kumpara sa may asawa na hindi niya naman gusto.

And before she could have a baby, she needs to have sex with her future husband!

“Zacariel, kapag mag asawa na, magsesex sila para magkaroon ng baby. Right? So…”

When she looked up on him, she saw him closing his eyes tightly, head is tilted while licking his lower lips in a hard way to probably stop himself from laughing. He looked very amused.

Sumimangot siya. “Ganito talaga ako mag-isip. Advanced.”

He let out a hearty chuckle. That made her blushed. To see him this happy and entertained inspired her to make him laugh often as possible.

“First, we will focus on how you would reach your dreams before getting married. We will talk about pregnancy and babies eventually, Yelena.”

Mabait siyang tumango bilang pagsang-ayon.

Medyo gumaan naman ang pakiramdam niya dahil tutulungan siya ni Zacariel na maabot ang mga pangarap niya bago siya i-kasal. She was just hoping that her parents would be considerate.

6 ~ TEMPORARY

CHAPTER SIX

YELENA winced when she felt the pain on her ankle. Kanina ay hindi niya naramdaman ’yon noong nasa pagitan ng mga hita niya ang ulo ni Zacariel. Now that he’s done and she’s back to her normal state, the physical pain and embarrassment made her want to just leave his car and run away from him.

What did just happen? Did she really allow him to do that to her? Gano’n ba siya kasabik? Gano’n siya kadaling natupok ng apoy? Did she really miss him that much? That she easily gave in and let him please her with his damn tongue?

Mariin siyang pumikit at kinastigo ang sarili.

She shouldn’t do that! Sumama siya kay Zacariel para mag-usap sila ng masinsinan at hindi para maranasan ulit ang matinding kaluguran na ito lang tangi ang may kakayahang iparanas sa kanya.

The silence stretched between them. Pakiramdam niya ay naririnig nito ang malakas na pintig ng puso niya. It’s either she was still panting because of what happened awhile a ago or her heart really beats loudly whenever he’s around. Hindi na natuto ang puso niya. Kahit na nadurog ’yon at nasugatan, tila nanatili ang pagiging tapat sa lalaking kasama niya.

Her phone beeped that woke her up from a deep thought. Kinuha niya ’yon sa sling bag at tinignan kung kanino galing ang mensahe.

From: Santi I’m going home. Magpahatid ka nalang kay Zacariel sa condo, okay? I’ll send you the complete address.

She quickly type a reply.

To: Santi It’s still early. Are you okay?

There was no answer from her friend. Talagang maaga pa naman at balak sana nila na umuwi kahit bago maghating-gabi. Nakapagtataka na tinapos na ng kaibigan ang oras nila sana sa Club.

“I need to go back to Santi’s condo. Pwede bang ihatid mo ko do’n?”

Zacariel seemed like he still wants to stay or to talk with her, but she wants to go home and check if her best friend is really fine.

“Do you have spare key?”

“I don’t have. Pero pauwi na rin si Santi. Kung wala pa siya, maghihintay nalang ako sa lobby.”

Nag-umpisa na ulit magmaneho si Zacariel. Tahimik lang ito kahit pa noong sinabi niya kung nasaan ang condominium na tinutuluyan niya.

“Are you available tomorrow?” then he asks all of a sudden.

“I have a morning class. I’ll be free until evening after that.”

“Can I invite you for a dinner?”

He was so casual that it felt like he won’t care if she refused or what.

“Okay lang,” she acted like it’s also nothing to her.

“Save your number here,” he handed her his phone.

Kinuha niya naman iyon at ginawa ang sinabi nito. She even wrote her full name and saved it.

Tama ba ang ginagawa niya? Hindi niya ba pagsisisihan na isasali niya na naman si Zacariel sa buhay niya? Paano kung masaktan na naman siya?

Yelena was confused with her decisions about Zacariel. Her mind told her not to get near him again but her heart doesn’t want to cooperate. And as a person who always choose to follow her heart, it was hard for her to stop what her heart’s wants.

Dumating sila sa condominium nang wala pa rin sina Santi. She texted him but he didn’t answer. Ayaw niyang mag-alala dahil alam niyang ligtas naman ang kaibigan kasama ang bodyguard.

Instead of waiting at the lobby, she told Zacariel to go to the coffee shop nearby. Nilakad lang nila dahil katabi lang naman ng building. Wala naman itong sinabi. Halatang susunod lang sa mga gusto niyang mangyari.

“I will only stay in Manila this summer. Babalik din sa atin kapag tapos na ang class ko.”

“I’m glad that your parents allowed you to take that course.”

She sips on her caramel macchiato. Then shook her head after.

“My parents are still the same. Especially my mom. Tumakas lang ako para rito at kailangan kong bumalik bago sila makauwi ng Pilipinas.”

Zacariel sips on his black coffee.

Who would’ve thought that she will be with him again after last summer? And now they are having a damn coffee as if nothing in the past?

“Ikaw ba, dito ka na talaga?”

“I’m working here. I visit hacienda sometimes.”

Sa tuwing naiisip niya ang Hacienda Guerrera, kaagad na pumapasok ang imahe ni Zacariel at ang ganda ng Querencia. And whenever her mind started to wander about their memories together in that majestic waterfalls, she couldn’t help but to feel sad.

Sadness for the things that she thought would last but didn’t. Sadness for the happy memories that she knew won’t be the same again. And sadness for her young heart who have learned to hope that everything would be fine because she have him, and even until that very moment, its still hoping. And it’s all because of him.

“Bumibisita ka pa rin ba sa…” hindi niya matuloy ang sasabihin dahil para siyang nasasaktan.

“Hindi,” he answered shortly.

Isn’t it funny that even though she didn’t say the place, he still knew what she meant?

“Bakit?”

Tumititig sa kanya si Zacariel. Bagamat madilim ang mga mata, naaaninag niya pa rin ang klase ng emosyon na nahihirapan siyang pangalanan. Tila ba may kinikimkim na pait doon na nahalinhinan ng panghihinayang.

“I don’t want to.”

Ibinaba niya ang tingin sa iniinom.

He don’t want to? Why? Dahil ba ayaw nitong maalala ang pinagsaluhan nila roon? Kahit siguro siya, ayaw niya. O baka may iba pa itong dahilan.

“Bakit naman? Maganda sa waterfalls. Tahimik at payapa.”

“The only reason why I’d go back there is… you,” he muttered, then avoided her gaze.

Hindi niya alam kung bakit imbes na matuwa, mas nangibabaw pa ’yong lungkot sa kanya.

“I don’t think I’d ever visit Querencia again.”

He remained silent but he’s staring at her this time.

“I don’t even know if I can finish my course. You know, my mom is very eager to give my hand to some random guy that they chose for me.”

Zacariel then shifted on his chair. His thick brows furrowed. “They chose for you? May napili na?”

Yelena shrugs her shoulders. “Yes. Mom called me and informed me ’bout that.”

“Are you going to get married?”

Bumuntonghininga siya. Of course she don’t want to get married! But does she have other choice? Mayroon naman. Iyon ay kung tatakasan niya ang kapalaran niyang ’yon. Saan naman siya pupunta? Kaya niya na bang mabuhay mag isa nang hindi umaasa sa pera ng magulang niya?

She don’t have enough money to support herself! Kaya paano siya tatakas? Unless, someone with a good heart would understand her situation and help her escape. Who would it be? Santi? Her brother Russo?

“I expected that this would happen. Gusto ko nalang tanggapin na maybe this is really meant for me. I am Altamonte after all,” she chuckled bitterly.

“That’s your family tradition and it doesn’t mean what they want for you is meant for you. You have other choice, Yelena.”

“What kind of choice, Zacariel? To break the tradition? I have no means to support myself if I do that. Itatakwil ako ng sariling pamilya ko.”

“We already talked about these before. Let me talk to your parents.”

Nanghihina na pinagmasdan niya ang kaharap. She can’t explain what would she feel. He will talk to her parents? For what?

Yelena finished her macchiato when she saw Santi at the entrance of the cafe. Nahanap kaagad siya ng kaibigan at gusto niyang irapan ito nang makita ang malapad na ngisi dahil sa kasama niya. Alam niya na tutuksuhin siya nito mamaya!

“Hello, Kuya Zacariel, it’s nice to see you again!” Santi greeted politely.

“Good to see you too, Santi.”

“Anyway, I just drop by to check if Yelena is fine. Sige lang, ipagpatuloy niyo ang usapan ninyo-”

“Santi, we are done here. I’m gonna rest na rin.”

Walang nagawa si Zacariel nang sabihin niya iyon. Imbes ay inalalayan lang siya sa paglalakad dahil mahapdi pa rin ang ankle niya.

“What happened to you?” Santi is worried. He even checked her ankle. “Natapilok ko?”

“Yes. May nangbangga sa akin sa Club kanina.”

“Tss. You may need cold compress for that. Let’s go.”

Outside of the cafe is Santi’s bodyguard. Tahimik itong nakasunod sa kanila hanggang sa nakatapat sila sa pinto ng unit.

Santi opened the door widely to welcome her and Zacariel.

“Thank you,” she muttered when she put her down at the long sofa.

“Do you want something to drink Kuya Zacariel?”

“I’m good. Thanks.”

Matagal siyang tinitigan muna ni Santi bago ito nagpaalam na magpapahinga na. Ang bodyguard naman nito ay ang kabilang unit naman ang inu-okupa.

Zacariel sat next to her. As much as she can, she ignore the feelings that she felt whenever he’s close or he’s just around. Ayaw niya na sanang magpa-apekto pa pero nahihirapan siyang manduhan ang sariling damdamin.

“Do you think you can go to your class tomorrow?”

“I think so. I need to go no matter what.”

He nods his head. “I can pick you up here and drop you to the university.”

She purses her lips. “Aren’t you busy?”

“I’ll go straight to the office after I drop you.”

“Sasabay nalang ako kay Santi.”

“Okay. How about I pick you up there?”

Yelena avoided Zacariel’s eyes. Gusto niyang makita dahil sa mga offer nito at ayaw niyang ipakita rito na natutuwa siya.

“My class will end at 11am. If you’re not busy, you can pick me up.”

“I’ll let you know.”

“Okay.”

After a few minutes of silence, she yawned.

“Magpahinga ka na. Uuwi na ako.”

Sinundan niya ito ng tingin nang tumayo. Akala niya ay aalis na pero nagkamali siya. He bow down a bit so he can kiss her forehead. That made her closed her eyes.

“I’ll see you tomorrow,” he whispered gently.

Napalunok siya at tumango nalang. Animo nawalan ng lakas at kung may anong natunaw sa loob ng dibdib niya.

When Zacariel left, she went inside her bedroom and took a cold shower. Nang matapos at makabalik sa kama, nakita niya ang mensahe galing sa hindi naka rehistrong numero. At kahit na gano’n, alam niya agad kung kanino galing.

From: Unregistered Number I’m home. Are you still up?

Never in her mind that she thought about her and Zacariel would text each other. Kaya naman hindi niya mapigilan ang mapangiti. Mabilis nga lang napawi dahil kinabahan agad siya sa sariling tibok ng puso. She’s worried because a simple text made her smile easily. That’s how Zacariel Guerrera made her feel.

Yelena lay on her bed and still thinking if she going to reply or not? Magpapanggap nalang siyang nakatulog? But damn, both her mind and heart screaming at her to type a damn reply!

Closing her eyes tightly, she took a deep breath. Nang mapakawalan ang naipon na hangin, nag desisyon siya na magrereply at medyo pinatagal niya rin.

To: Unregistered Number Is this Zacariel?

Right! She really pretend that she didn’t know it was him!

From: Unregistered Number Yes. Save my number.

She rolled on her bed and stopping herself from typing quickly! Pinalipas niya pa ulit ang ilang minuto and while doing that, she saved his number.

To: Zac Okay. I’m going to sleep now.

Kahit hindi pa naman siya matutulog talaga!

From: Zac Good night.

Umirap siya. So, that’s the end of it?

Annoyed, she didn’t reply and put her phone at the side table.

The next day, Yelena feel lighter for some reason. Ganado siya kahit medyo may masakit pa sa ankle niya. At hindi pwedeng hindi ’yon mapansin ng kaibigan.

“Bakit blooming ka?” tukso nito ang aga-aga.

She saw it too while she was in front of the mirror and doing her light make up. She looked prettier and glowing. She don’t really know why!

“Because I slept good.”

Santi even eyed her from head to toe, then crossed his arms above his chest.

“Umamin ka, nagka-ayos na kayo ni Zacariel?”

Yelena sprays perfume then smell her wrist. “Not really. We talked a bit.”

“A bit? Ilang oras kayong magkasama? Tapos kaunti lang ang napag-usapan ninyo?”

Hindi niya pinansin ang kaibigan. She wears a Gucci sneakers, a black short dress, then paired it with a fashion coat.

“At bakit parang handang-handa ka? You even put make ups. Huh, what is this, Yelena?”

She rolls her eyes. “I’m meeting Zacariel after our class-”

Nang binanggit niya palang ang pangalan ng binata ay impit nang napatili ang kaibigan. He looked like a big fan of their love team! That’s who supportive he was.

“Really? Is this a sign of come back? Oh my!” then she fanned himself with his hands.

“There’s no come back. Hindi naman naging kami dati ’no.”

“Hindi, because he didn’t like minors. He told you that. Remember?”

Napaisip siya bigla.

She’s eighteen already and at the legal age. What if… he waited for it? Is that even possible?

“Maybe, he waited until you turned eighteen. Tingin mo?”

“I don’t think so. Sana sinabi niya?”

“Sabagay…”

Lumabas sila sa unit at naroon na rin naghihintay ang bodyguard. Sumunod ulit ito sa kanila na parang robot.

“Susunduin ka ba niya mamaya?”

“He will call me-” she was cut off when Santi made a kilig face. “Maybe he’s busy. Hindi rin ako sigurado kung matutuloy kami.”

“Tuloy ’yan. He wouldn’t lose this chance. Bahala siya. Kapag hindi pa siya kumilos, makikita ka nalang niya na kasal na sa iba.”

Hindi niya sigurado kung paano nasasabi ni Santi ang mga bagay na para bang interesado sa kanya si Zacariel. Baka kaya sila magkikita ay para lang maipagpatuloy ang usapan nila dahil hindi nila natapos iyon kagabi. They did something else.

The images of her being pleasured by his tongue inside his car still made her blush. She can’t really believe herself that she was able to do that after all the heartbreaks.

“Ayokong umasa, Santi.”

“Be frank, Yelena. Ask him directly why he’s doing all of these. Tell him that you don’t have time to play a game if that’s what he wants from you. But knowing Guerreras men, they don’t play games when it comes to women and relationships, right? Palagi silang seryoso.”

Tumango siya dahil totoo iyon. Guerreras men valued women and respect relationships. Something that she admired about them.

“I’ll ask that later. I don’t want to play a game with him. Alam kong matatalo ako.”

“Yes, because you like him.”

A small smile curved her lips. “Sana baliktad nalang ’no? Ako ang gusto niya at hindi ko siya gusto.”

“Tiwala lang. Gusto ka no’n. Hindi naman siguro maglalaan ng oras sayo si Zacariel kung hindi? He’s very busy but he still wants to meet you? That’s one of the sign, Yelena.”

Mabuti nalang talaga at kasama niya si Santi. He always boost her confidence and he always see the bright side.

Yelena’s phone vibrated in the middle of their class. She was tempted to check it and see if it was Zacariel. Kaya lang ay ayaw niyang maantala siya. When they have their break, she checked her phone.

From: Zac Can we have our lunch in my office instead? I have an important meeting after.

From: Zac What time do you want me to pick you up?

Dalawang mensahe lang ’yon. Santi was reading the messages too. But he didn’t interrupt. He just let her decide.

To: Zac 11:30am is good. I don’t mind eating inside your office. I’d like to see your workplace.

Then she sent it.

Their class continued and she didn’t receive a reply from Zacariel. He must be busy? She’s curious how he works and what is his life in Manila.

“I’ll have my lunch with our classmates. Call me later, okay?” Santi said then give her a cheek to cheek kiss.

“Okay. Hihintayin ko nalang dito si Zacariel.”

Santi left with their classmates and she was alone near the cafeteria, where she can see the parking area. Zacariel texted her that he’s on his way.

If what she’s doing is right, she don’t really know. This time, she’s still allowing her heart to follow what it wants despite the fact that she knows being with him won’t last. Because ever since, there was no Zacariel and Yelena, right? They won’t last.

Everything is just temporary, might as well enjoy every moment with him.

7 ~ KISS

CHAPTER SEVEN

WHEN they entered the building, she noticed how they caught people’s attention. She’s with Zacariel and they don’t even hold each other’s hands but it seemed like the staffs are in awe at the sight of their boss being with a girl.

Bakit? Hindi ba sanay ang mga ito na makita ang amo na may kasamang babae? Kung may nobya ito, siguradong nadala na sa opisina. O baka naman ang dahilan ng mga tingin ng tao ay dahil kahit nasa isang relasyon si Zacariel ay nakuha pa rin magdala ng ibang babae?

Yelena paused for a moment. She realized that she never ask him if he has a girlfriend? She should’ve make sure that he’s single before she entertained him!

Bumukas ang elevator at pumasok sila. May ilang empleyado ang nasa loob na agad na gumilid para magkaroon sila ng tamang espasyo. They also greeted him politely but he only nodded his head.

“This is Roda, my secretary,” Zacariel introduced a woman who’s in mid thirties. “And Roda, this is Yelena Altamonte.”

“Good to see you, Ma’am.”

“Hello, nice to meet you, Miss Roda.”

“She’s married,” the man beside her muttered.

Ngumiti nalang si Yelena. So next time, she will address his secretary according to her marital status.

Zacariel’s office is spacious and the view behind his large table is the skyscrapers of the City. The glass wall gives enough lights inside. There’s a mini living room, a dining table and another room which either a restroom or a bedroom.

Curiously, her eyes stays at that door while sitting at the leather sofa.

“Do you have a restroom here?” at kahit wala naman siya talagang balak gumamit ng restroom, nagtanong pa rin siya para lang mapunan ang kyoryosidad niya.

“I have. Inside that bedroom,” he pointed the door that she was eyeing, then continued preparing their lunch.

“Can I use?”

Zacariel nods his head. Para bang wala lang dito na papasok siya sa silid nito. O baka sanay na ito na pinapagamit ’yon sa kung sino man ang bumibisita rito?

Yelena opened the door and she’s welcome with a king sized bed at the center of the room. It wasn’t that huge but it’s enough to use and sleep or relax. Katulad ng opisina nito, there’s also a glass wall on the side of the bed for a view. On the other side is another door which she think is the restroom.

Masigla siyang naupo sa dulo ng malambot na kama. The black and grey combination of a set of duvet covers looked really manly. Halata talaga na lalaki ang gumagamit.

If he have this bedroom inside his office, does it mean some times, he stays here? Especially if he’s too busy to go home? Dahil sa totoo lang, kumpleto ang kagamitan doon. A typical room with complete appliances that you wouldn’t need to go out to entertain yourself.

Yelena don’t really want to interfere with Zacariel’s love life, but she couldn’t avoid thinking if he already brought a girl on his office and on that bedroom?

Kung oo, sino kaya ang maswerte? Si Francha? Are they still together though?

Yelena stood up and left the room to ask Zacariel directly. If he wants her, then she needs to make sure that he’s single. She don’t want to be his mistress!

“I have a question,” she walked towards him.

He paused from pouring a glass of cold orange juice. Then he gave his attention to her.

“What is it?”

Now that she’s facing him and he’s staring at her, it felt like she couldn’t ask what she wanted to ask him awhile ago! Kulang nalang ay pati ang mga paa niya ay umurong.

Napalunok siya at nagpanggap na hindi apektado sa mga titig nito sa kanya. Kung hindi niya tatanungin si Zacariel, hindi rin siya mapapanatag.

“I want to know if you’re still with Francha?” she made it sound like she just want to open a new conversation before they start eating.

Zacariel being gentleman, he pulled a chair for her.

Naupo siya doon at tinignan ang pagkain. She’s not very picky with foods. She likes to try even those unfamiliar dishes. This time, they have a bowl of caesar salad, a chicken salad, and quesadilla. The other option is rice, vegetables and grilled pork.

“Not anymore,” he answered then sit on the host’s chair while she’s sitting on the guest of honor. “What do you like to eat?”

“I’d like to have chicken salad first.”

Zacariel served a right amount of chicken salad on her plate. Even until that moment she’s still used to him serving foods for her.

Then a memories of them in Querencia suddenly flashed her mind.

Yelena smiled as she watch the cabana in front of her after she put the white sheer curtains as a cover to the door. With Zacariel’s help, she managed to do that.

Agad na isinayaw iyon ng hangin na para bang kaytagal na naghintay na magkaroon ng layang lumipad. Kalaunan ay unti-unti rin na bumalik sa dapat na pwesto.

She clapped her hands in so much joy. Kahit pa nakakapagod ang ginawa nila pag-a-arrange para lang matapos ang cabana na ’yon, napapawi ang lahat dahil sa resulta ng pawis nila.

It’s been a week and they finally done with their humbled home. Her heart boomed when she felt Zacariel’s hand on her waist.

“This makes me want to stay longer here,” she said and looked up on him. “Or maybe spend a night?”

His eyes weren’t on her but at the cabana. He’s sweating but he still smells so good.

“I still need to make sure if it’s safe to spend a night here.”

Maybe there are some wild animals that roam around in the forest when it’s already dark. Naintindihan niya agad iyon. She don’t want them to be in danger. Besides, they could spend a night if he already made sure that they will be safe, right?

Imagine, there’s a chance that she could spend a night with Zacariel Guerrera? Ano naman kaya ang gagawin nila kung sakaling pwede nga? Magkukwentuhan hanggang sa makatulog?

Inside of their cabana is a mattress for two, pillows and a mini table. Their extra clothes and towels are folded neatly at the corner.

Nakatulog siya nang pumatak na ang katanghalian. When she woke up, she found herself hugging Zacariel who’s laying beside her, sleeping!

Nanlaki ang mga mata niya at mabilis na aalisin sana ang kamay niya ngunit naisip din agad na baka magising ito at malaman pa na nakayakap siya.

She carefully removed her arm and moved quietly. She don’t want to disturb him. Maingat din siyang bumangon para magpalit sa swimsuit para makaligo sa waterfalls.

And since Zacariel is sleeping, she’s confident that she won’t see her if she changed her clothes. Besides, she’s facing his back. Yelena take off her dress and changed with a green who piece bikini.

While Zacariel is sleeping, she’s having her own time at the waterfalls. She likes the feeling of spending time with herself. Dahil kapag gano’n, mas nakakapag-isip siya ng maayos.

She faced the waterfalls and closed her eyes. She’s hoping that this summer vacation would end the way she expected it to be. Katulad nalang na umaasa siya na magpaptuloy ang magandang samahan nila ni Zacariel kahit pa malayo na sila sa isa’t isa.

His presence behind her stopped her from thinking and hoping. Isa lang ang gusto niya sa mga araw na ’yon. She wanted it to be memorable so she has something to think about whenever they are away from each other.

“Hindi na kita ginising,” hinarap niya ito at nginitian.

His upper body is wide and obviously hard. The muscles are on the right places and just fit on his built. His eyes were always dark and his lips were red.

His lips… she’s been fantasizing to kiss him.

Yelena couldn’t explain the heat that she felt everything they are physically close and whenever he touch her, or when their skin touches.

Ang sabi niya, gusto niyang maging espesyal ang summer vacation na ’yon. Is it too much to bare if she wants to feel his lips on hers?

Tumitig siya sa labi ni Zacariel. Her body was the one who speaks for her at that moment. She wants to experience to be kissed by someone that is dear to her. She wants him to be her first kiss. That would be really unforgettable.

“Halikan mo ako,” she whispered softly.

Yelena’s cheeks heated when she saw the glimpse of amusement on his eyes while watching her, who looked like begging to be kissed by him.

“Hindi pa ako kailanman nahahalikan. I want to experience how it feels to be kissed.”

He chuckled. “We will when you turned eighteen-”

“But I want now, Zacariel. Besides, it’s just a kiss. Ayaw mo ba?”

Sumimangot siya nang hindi ito nagsalita at tinitigan lang siya.

“If Santi only likes me more than just a friend, I’d tell him to kiss me.”

He scowled then grabbed her forearm and pulled her closer to him that made her stunned.

“You’re kinda aggressive,” his voice was a hoarse.

“You think so?”

“Uh-huh.”

“Hahalikan mo na ako?” pilya siyang ngumisi.

“Are you aware that I’m older than you and you’re just seventeen? Seventeen, Yelena.”

“I don’t really care ’bout our age gap, Zacariel. I just want to experience kissing!” she sighed exasperatedly. “Bakit ang mga classmate ko, may mga boyfriend na sila at naghalikan na rin! Ako nalang ang hindi pa nahahalikan!”

She cupped his jaw and tiptoed so she could reach his lips. When she felt his palms at the both side of her waist, she realized that he don’t want her to kiss him.

Nahinto siya sa kalagitnaan ng paghalik sana. Their lips are just inch away and in just one move, she will feel his lips on hers. Kung hindi lang sana siya nagdalawang isip. Masyado siyang agresibo at siya talaga ang gumawa ng first move?

“That is not the right way to kiss someone. You need feelings…” he angled his head that made her heart raced. “This…”

Yelena’s eyes shut closed when she felt Zacariel’s lips touches hers. Kasabay ng marahan na galaw ng labi nito ay ang walang awat na mabilis na pintig ng kanyang puso.

She don’t know exactly where to hold or what to do because his kisses may be shallow but it’s too sensual. It seemed like any moment her knees would tremble that could make her weak.

When he inserted his tongue inside her mouth, she gasped. Para siyang nahihilo sa kakaibang damdamin na napupukaw dahil sa paraan ng paghalik sa kanya ng binata. She’s so drowned that it felt like her world stop from spinning and she get stuck on their own world.

“Mmm,” another soft moan escaped her lips when she felt him palm moved up to the side of her breast.

Mainit ang pakiramdam niya kahit pa nasa tubig sila. She can also feel the wet on her inner thighs. Even her skin became sensitive because of the way he caress her.

It was her very first kiss and she can’t believe that the feeling is melting and at the same time satisfying. Bukod pa doon, ramdam niya talaga na parang may kung anong kiliti na namumuo sa bandang puson niya.

Zacariel arched her to move her tongue too. Pinagbigyan niya ito at madamdamin na ginaya kung paano nito igalaw ang dila. Their tongue were like a swords that they use to fight on a battle that nobody want to lose.

“Aahh,” she whimpered when he suck her tongue and at the same time she felt his fingers pinch her nipple slightly.

She’s torn between continued to close her eyes and feel the kiss or just watch his hand on her breast. Kung kanina ay ramdam niya lang na nababasa ang pagkababae niya, now that he’s playing with her nipple, she can guarantee that she’s really wet down there.

Yelena gasped and her breathing became heavy because Zacariel’s lips left hers and started to devour her neck while palming her breast. She looked down only to find out that she’s now bare in front of him. Ang bikini top niya ay nasa bewang niya na.

Another soft moan echoed together with the sounds of the waterfalls when he claimed her nipple with his hot mouth. Para siyang natupok ng malaking apoy at natunaw dahil sa kaluguran na dulot niyon sa kanya.

Yelena frowned and shook her head, that made Zacariel looked at her curiously. He put down his utensils so that he can give her his full attention.

“What’s going on? You don’t like the foods?”

Uminit ang pisngi niya nang tignan ito habang naglalaro sa isipan niya ang maiinit na sandali nila noon sa Querencia. She can’t really believe how aggressive she was back then. And maybe even until that moment, she still is.

Napalunok siya at pilit pa rin na isinasantabi ang mga imahe. Those memories lingered. And honestly, she’s hoping that it would happen again! She can’t see herself being with another man and do that thing, only to him.

Yelena bite her lower lips. She knows that her cheek is turning to red because it’s really hot.

“Why are you blushing?” he arched his brow, there’s a ghost of smile on his lips. Para bang alam nito ang iniisip niya o kaya’y masyado na siyang kilala kaya madaling basahin dahil sa kilos. “Don’t tell me… you are thinking about-”

“Shut up,” she glared at him. “I am not thinking about our memories in Querencia. You wish.”

“Oh-oh, I didn’t say anything about Querencia,” he smirked. “Well, if you missed what we did there, just tell me.”

“I don’t miss what we did there!”

“Too bad, I missed those memories.”

She blushed more. But she won’t let herself to look like she was the one who longed for that moment to happen again.

“I don’t believe you.”

He sips on his orange juice without breaking their eye contact.

“Let’s fix our relationship, Yelena.”

She leered and continued eating despite of the wild beating of her heart. She don’t know how to reach with what he said. No matter how much she wants to fix whatever was broken, she knows that it’s too late.

She will get married anytime soon. If she continued being this close with Zacariel, she will only get hurt in the end. Unless, there’s a miracle that he would think about marrying her and convince her parents to change their minds.

8 ~ MESSAGE (SPG)

CHAPTER EIGHT

MAYBE she is just being in-denial with her real feelings. She is just being selfish to herself so in the end she won’t regret what she was doing. And she is probably scared that all of this would breaks her heart again. Kung sana kaya niyang manduhan ang puso niya, ginawa niya na kahit noong una palang. Pero hindi, mahirap makipagtalo sa isang bagay na kahit siya ay gusto rin.

Yelena still can’t believe that she did that… that they did that. She can still feel the pain on her inner thighs. She can’t even move properly because even her legs and muscles were affected by what they just did.

Napalunok niya habang nakahiga sa kama at mariin na napapikit. Hindi niya gustong alalahanin ang nangyari dahil pati siya ay hindi talaga makapaniwala na nagawa niya ’yon!

She just gave her virginity to Zacariel Guerrera!

They are on his penthouse and he’s sleeping peacefully beside her. She don’t even want to move because she’s worried he would be awake and they would talk about what happened.

Nagpatuloy ang pagkikita nila ni Zacariel simula noong mag-usap sila. Palagi siya nitong sinusundo. They spent most of their time on his office. Then one day, he brought her to his penthouse in Makati. And since they were alone and they have a privacy, they used to repeat their heated moment last summer in Querencia.

When her iphone beeped she immediately grabbed it and put it on the silent mode.

From: Santi

Aren’t you going home tonight? Are you still with Zacariel?

It’s already eleven in the evening. She forgot to text Santi that she will be late. Hindi niya akalain na may mangyayari sa kanila ni Zacariel at makakatulog siya pagkatapos. She also don’t want to get up and leave because she’s really sore.

To: Santi

I will stay with Zacariel for a night. I’ll see you tomorrow.

Mabilis ang reply ng kaibigan.

From: Santi

Where are you?

Zacariel’s move then he placed his arm above her stomach.

To: Santi

We are on his penthouse in Makati.

From: Santi

Okay. I don’t want to be nosy with whatever you’re doing there. I just want to make sure that you’re safe. Alam mo na, your parents are strict.

She smiles. She’s don’t really need other friends or a lot of friends because she’s contented having Santi; a friend that she can trust and a friend that truly cares for her.

Yelena was about to type a reply but she was distracted when Zacariel’s palm travelled up to her breast. She’s naked and she’s sure he is too. The duvet is covering them and making them warm.

She bites her lower lip as he started to play with her nipple. He’s awake!

“I’m texting Santi,” she informed him then continued typing her reply.

To: Santi

Thank you, Santi. I’ll keep you updated. No worries. Good night.

After she sent that message, she put back her phone at the side table.

Yelena tries to control herself from making a sounds even though she’s really affected by the way Zacariel plays with her nipples. Napalunok siya nang tumagilid ito ng higa paharap sa kanya.

“Face me,” he whispered with a husk.

Carefull, she moved until her body his. They are both laying on their sides. Facing each other.

His callous palm then travelled down to her waist and pulled her closer to him that made her gasp. He lowered his head until it leveled her chest.

A soft whimper escaped from her when she felt him licked her nipple. Mabagal na pinaikot-ikot nito ang dila sa ut*ng niya na para bang sarap na sarap ito doon. Ang paraan ng paghimas nito sa kanyang bewang ay nagbibigay ng init sa kanyang katawan.

The dimmed lights inside his bedroom and the scent around makes the ambiance romantic. She can see the skyscrapers from the glass wall. The City lights were like stars.

When he sucks the skin near her nipple, her lips parted. The way he sucked it would leave a red mark. She’s sure of that because he used to that to her last summer. At ngayo’y inuulit na naman. She can’t complain or what because she liked it too.

“Zacariel…” her voice softened.

Pinanood niya kung paano nito tila sambahin ang ut*ng niya na naninigas na. Sinisiuradong nitong parehong nabibigyan ng tamang atensyon ang mga ’yon. Sa paraan na pinasasalit-salitan na hagkan, dilaan at sipsipin.

“Uhh,” she grips on his hair when he started to bite her nipple lightly.

Ramdam na ramdam niya ang pananakop ng mga ngipin nito at tila gigil na kakagatin ang dunggot niya sa kontroladong paraan. He is such a nipple sucker and it felt like she needs to get used to it!

Umawang ang labi niya nang pagkatapos nitong kagatin ’yon ay sinipsip naman ng matagal. Bumaba ang kamay niya sa panga ng binata. Hindi niya alam kung pipigilan niya ba ito o doon kukuha ng tamang wisyo para hindi tuluyang malunod sa panunukso ng apoy sa kanya.

“Hmm, Z-Zacariel…” she arched her body that made her breast touches his face while her nipple is still inside his hot mouth.

From closing his eyes, he opened it and looked up on her without stopping from sucking. Uminit ang pisngi niya at gusto itong irapan.

“You’re like a baby,” she pouts her lips.

“Sarap,” his voice was sensual, then he resumed.

She can already feel the wetness on her inner thighs. It was a shame to admit that she’s turned on again. Para bang naghahanap ng mas mainit pa ang kanyang katawan kahit pa ramdam niya ang pananakit at pagod.

Isang singhap ang kumawala sa kanya nang ekspertong nakapa ng binata ang pagkababae niya at maramdaman niya na ang daliri nito ay nabasa.

“I’m still sore,” she told him, but deep inside her, she’s still damn ready if he would take her.

“You need this,” he started to massage her femininity with his finger by rubbing it gently. “Part your legs.”

Her heart pounded, but she obeyed him. Medyo ibinuka niya ang isang hita upang hindi ito mahirapan sa balak gawin sa kanya.

“You’re soaking wet.”

Her cheeks burned. “It’s not my fault.”

Oo nga naman. Kung hindi siya nito tinukso at pinaglaruan ang dibdib niya, hindi naman siya mababasa at makakaramdam ng kasabikan na ipagpatuloy nila ang ginagawa.

Ang mahabang daliri nito na nakakaliyong humihimod sa hiwa ng kanyang pagkababae ay ang dahilan kung bakit mas lalo lang siyang kinakain ng matinding pagnanasa. At kung hihinto ito. pakiramdam niya ay masisira ang gabi niya.

“I want my tongue here,” he whispered sensually as he rubs her femininity.

Parang kung may anong kiliti na umahon sa kaibuturan niya sa sinabi ni Zacariel. She felt her womanhood throbbed… excitedly.

“But you just did… a few hours ago.”

“Can’t I do it again?”

Kinagat niya ang loob ng pisngi.

Whenever she thinks about him, pleasing her with his skillful tongue, it always made her wet. The memories that he left last summer lingered and even until that moment, the scenarios were crystal clear. At muling nadagdagan ang mga ’yon nang magkita ulit sila at madadagdagan pa ng higit sa inabot ng imahinasyon niya.

“Okay lang naman…” she gulped. “… if it’s just your tongue.”

“Just my tongue.”

Tumango siya na para bang nagpapaubaya na mapaso ng apoy at unti-unting magpasakop sa init na dala n’yon.

His lips traveled down her navel. He kissed her bellybutton then her lower abdomen. The anticipation always made her impatient and at the same time excited.

Zacariel lifted her one leg before he buried his face in between her thighs.

Halinghing niya ang naririnig sa loob ng malamig na silid habang patuloy sa paglapat ang mainit na dila sa pagkababae niya.

Walang awat at tila hindi magpapaawat ang bawat hagod, ang bawat halik, at ang bawat diin ng dila na ’yon na muling bumaliw sa kanya.

The next day, Zacariel dropped her to Santi’s condominium building before driving to his office. Yelena can’t really walk properly but she needs to keep herself together in front of Santi. Masyado siyang kilala ng kaibigan at ayaw niyang malaman nito na may namagitan na sa kanila ni Zacariel. She wants to keep it as secret.

“I forgot to tell you that my parents will arrive tonight in Manila. Gusto mo bang sumama sa dinner mamaya?” sa kalagitnaan ng lunch nila, sinabi ’yon ni Santi.

They decided to just stayed on his condo and ordered foods online. Wala rin naman siyang planong mamasyal dahil nga masakit ang katawan niya.

“I’d like to, but I am not really feeling well, Santi. Besides, it’s your family time. Siguro namimiss ka na nila Tita.”

“I don’t think so. May business meeting siguro sila. They just invited me to have dinner with them.”

Tumango siya at nagpatuloy sa pagkain. Panay din ang tingin niya sa iphone. Wala sa sariling nagbabakasali na may text message si Zacariel.

“Ano naman ang ginawa niyo kagabi sa penthouse?” kaswal ang tono ni Santi.

Kahit pa gano’n, hindi pa rin siya komportable na magsabi sa kaibigan. She is not also ready to hear Santi’s opinion.

“Nanood lang. Abala rin siya dahil kahit gabi na, nagtatrabaho pa rin.”

Yelena bite her cheek for lying. Sana lang ay hindi mapansin ng kaibigan niya na kabado siya dahil nagsinungaling!

“I’m glad though, that you two are in good terms now. Alam ko naman na pangarap mo siya,” tukso nito sabay ngisi.

She leered but she can’t hide her smile.

“Ayoko pa rin umasa sa kanya, Santi. Especially now that my parents already found a guy for me to marry.”

Sumimsim muna ito sa milk tea bago nagsalita. “Sinabi mo ba sa kanya ang tungkol diyan?”

“Oo.”

“Talaga? Oh, anong sabi niya?”

“It wasn’t really clear to me. Ang sabi niya lang, huwag ko na muna isipin.”

Santi sighed. “Akala ko pa naman a-akuin niya! Kung ganyan pala ang sinabi niya, ibig bang sabihin niyan ay wala siyang plano para sa inyong dalawa?”

Daig pa siya ng kaibigan. Sobrang pag-aalala at iritado nito. He expected so much from Zacariel that it disappoint him because he don’t have a clear plan for them. Like what she said, she don’t want to hope for them. She knows what would happen in the end.

“Pinayagan kitang matulog kasama niya dahil akala ko nagkausap na kayo tungkol sa relasyon ninyo. What are his plans? Does he have any plan though? Kung wala, hindi na kita papayagan na makita siya, Yelena!”

Napangiwi siya. Santi can be very protective. Talagang parang magkapatid na ang turing nila sa isa’t-isa. Kaya naiintindihan niya ito.

“Paano kung wala naman talaga siyang plano para sa inyo? Tapos kapag ikakasal ka na, papayag din siya? Dahil nga wala naman siyang plano sa kung anoman ang relasyon niyong dalawa? At sa huli, sino ang lugi, Yelena? Sino ang mas masasaktan? Ikaw! Tss.”

Come to think of it. Zacariel Guerrera would let go of her once she told him that she would get married. Wala man lang bang gagawin? Hindi man lang ba tututol?

“You need to make sure that he have plan for you or for both of you, Yelena, before it will be too late. Mahuhulog ka na naman sa kanya at sa huli, hindi ka na naman niya sasaluhin!”

At ang sumalo sa kanya noon ay si Santi.

Malalim siyang bumuntong hininga.

Her best-friend is right. She needs to be clear with Zacariel. Hindi pwedeng magkikita sila at may mangyayari, tapos ay wala naman pala siyang aasahan sa huli. Wala siyang pinanghahawakan. She needs guarantee and a promise that everything between them would be on the right place eventually.

“Isn’t it too much to ask? Maybe he’s just being nice to me because he’s guilty that he broke my heart before. Ayokong tanungin siya kung may plano ba siya sa aming dalawa. Parang… parang hindi ’yon tama. We are not in a relationship to ask that kind of questions.”

“It’s your right to ask. Maaaring masyado pang maaga, pero baka may sagot na siya sa mga tanong mo. Be clear to him, Yelena. Huwag mo nang ulitin ang ginawa mo last summer. Tell him what you feel and what you want. Kung hindi niya kayang ibigay, mmm, huwag ka na makipagkita?”

Last time, she wasn’t clear to him and what she expected for both of them. Uulitin niya na naman ba ’yon? Na hindi niya ipapaalam kay Zacariel ang mga gusto niyang mangyari sa buhay niya? Dapat niyang malaman kaagad kung may balak ba itong patagalin ang anoman ang namamagitan sa kanila, para malaman niya kung saan lang ang hangganan nila.

“Dear, I just don’t want you to be hurt again by the same man.This time, be clever, please. Huwag puro ganda o pagnanasa. Use your head too.”

“Pagnanasa ka diyan,” sabay irap niya.

“Bakit? Hindi ka ba nagnanasa kay Zacariel? Nagsisinungaling ka kung sasabihin mong hindi!”

Yelena can’t say a word. Damn, she’s guilty!

“See? Kapag pinairal mo ’yang pagnanasa na ’yan, bahala ka. Masasaktan ka talaga kapag pagnanasa lang din ang gusto niya sayo, Yelena. Sinasabi ko sayo.”

What if Zacariel was just lusting over her? That’s why he get closer to her and he’s being nice?

Santi’s words and that last question didn’t leave her mind. Mag isa nalang siya sa condo dahil umalis ang kaibigan para kitain ang magulang. Still, she can’t stop from thinking. Aside from that, there was no message from Zacariel since afternoon.

Nababagot siya kakahintay kaya naman sa iritasyon, siya na ang nag text dito at nagtanong.

To: Zac

I know you’re busy, but I need to ask you some questions. I want an honest answer, Zacariel.

First, after what happened last night, do you have any plan to make us official?

Second, if you don’t have plan, does it mean that you’re just lusting over me?

I hope you don’t find my questions ridiculous.

After she sent her message, she left her iphone and ran inside the shower room. Humarap siya sa salamin dahil sa lakas ng tibok ng puso niya. Sobra siyang kinakabahan sa magiging reply ni Zacariel. Hindi siya handa!

Yelena shut her eyes when she heard her iphone ring. Rinig na rinig niya ang kalabog ng dibdib. Unti-unti ulit siyang bumalik sa kama para tignan kung sino ang tumatawag. At gano’n nalang ang ginhawang naramdaman nang makitang si Santi ’yon. Agad niyang sinagot.

“Hello?”

“Yelana? You won’t believe this!” Santi’s voice was urgent or panicking.

“What? Are you with your parents now-”

“Zacariel is here! Pero hindi niya pa siguro kami napapansin.”

“Oh, okay.”

“Anong okay? May kasama siyang babae! Okay ka lang?”

Umangat ang kilay niya kasabay ng kakaibang sakit na pumitik sa puso niya.

“Baka business associates or employee-”

“No, he’s with Francha! Dinner date! I’m gonna cut this line and send you a photo of them.”

Nanghihina na napaupo si Yelena sa kama. She don’t exactly know what to feel. Zacariel is with another woman, with his ex-girlfriend, having dinner in a fancy restaurant while she’s alone and thinking about them and the possibilities of their future together!

Her iphone beeped and she saw the photo that Santi sent her.

It’s true. It was Zacariel, on his dark tux, with a beautiful woman on a silk dress, sitting in front of him, on a table for two. That is the woman that he probably wants.

With her mixed emotions and with the violent beating of her heart, Yelena type a text message for Zacariel. Hindi niya na konontrol pa ang sarili.

To: Zac

Forget about my questions. I don’t wanna see your damn face anymore! Womanizer!

9 ~ GIRLFRIEND

CHAPTER NINE

IT feels like her heart is breaking into pieces again. It was the same feeling she had last summer and it’s happening again with the same person but in a different reason. This time, he managed to make her believe that he’s really into her. That what we had was deep. She even gave herself to him because she really believed it was all real.

Gusto niyang isipin na baka masyado lang siyang nagpadala sa damdamin niya kaya sumabog siya at kung anu-ano agad ang naiisip. Pero nakita niya na ang ebedensya. Zacariel is with Francha right now, having an intimate dinner in a fine dining restaurant. By the look of the picture, whoever will see the two, would think that they are in a romantic relationship. Like a couple who’s enjoying their moment together. It was far from a damn business dinner!

Yelena wiped her tears and covered herself with a duvet. Hindi niya na nakuha pang mag reply sa text messages ni Santi at hindi na rin pinansin ang pagtawag nito. She just wanted to cry so she can express her feelings so she would feel at ease.

Crying is one of her way to comfort herself whenever she was down, sad or in pain. Crying is not always a sign of weakness, it symbolized bravery too. That no matter how difficult the situation is and no matter how pain it would give you, just cry until you’d feel better.

Naalimpungatan si Yelena nang tumunog ang iPhone niya. Nakatulog siya habang umiiyak at hindi na namalayan pa ang oras. She sleepily grabbed her phone and answered the call without looking at the caller.

“Hello-”

“I’m outside,” it was Zacariel’s voice.

Nanlalaki ang mga mata niya at tuluyang nagising ang diwa. Napabalikwas siya at tinignan ang screen para lang makasiguro na hindi siya nagkamali ng dinig.

“Can you open the door?”

Her heart is racing despite of being mad.

“Why would I?”

“Because we need to talk, Yelena.”

Is he going to explain? The question is, would she listen?

“I’m done with that talks, Zacariel. Malinaw na sa akin ang lahat.”

“I don’t think so. Just open the door so I can explain to you properly.”

Where’s Santi by now by the way? Hindi pa rin ba ito uuwi?

Yelena checked the clock and it’s already ten in the evening. She managed to check her inbox and see Santi’s text message.

From: Santi I’m gonna stay at the hotel here for a night. I’ll be back tomorrow. Are you okay, Yelena?

From: Santi Should I leave my parents? You make me worried. Kanina pa umalis si Zacariel. Pero naiwan si Francha.

She quickly typed a reply. She don’t want Santi to leave his parents just for her.

To: Santi I’m fine. I’ll see you tomorrow, Santi. Enjoy your time with your parents. Don’t worry about me, please. This is not the first time he hurt me. I’ll get over to this.

After she sent the message, she sighed.

Zacariel was silent on the other line. He was patiently waiting for her.

“Don’t feel guilty, Zacariel. I don’t care whoever you date, pero sana nagpalipas ka ng ilang araw bago ka nakipagkita sa ibang babae! Do you really want to play with me, huh? Anong akala mo sa ’kin? Laruan? You’re such a jerk!”

“Yelena, please, open the-”

“No! Go to hell!” Then she cut the line and turned off her damn phone.

She heard a knock from the main door but she ignored him. She don’t really know when he stopped bugging her, she fell asleep and the next morning she woke up because of Santi’s noise as if he’s talking to someone.

“I respect you, that’s why I let you in. I also admit that I was the one who sent Yelena the photo of you and Francha… last night.”

Yelena lazily went to the bathroom and did her morning routines. She suddenly can’t wait to go back to their mansion. Being in Manila with Zacariel around is it good for her. She needs to stay away from him.

Sitting on the long leather sofa is Zacariel Guerrera, wearing a navy blue casual long sleeved that hugs his forearm muscles, a khaki pants and a leather belt, while holding a cup of black coffee. His eyes immediately went on her the moment she opened the door of her bedroom.

“Good morning, pretty!” Santi greeted her with an awkward smile. Marahil nakita nito ang hindi maipintang itsura niya dahil sa lalaking bisita.

Tumayo si Zacariel pagkababa ng tasa ng kape sa lameseta. His aura is dark and heavy despite of the bright sunlight outside coming from the glass wall of the living area.

She leered at him and walked near Santi.

“Bakit mo siya pinapasok? Ayaw ko siyang makita!” she whispered, a bit aggressive.

Ngumiwi ang kaibigan. “He wants to explain, he said. About last night.”

“I don’t want to hear anything from him!”

“Paalisin ko na?” nag-aalangan ang kaibigan.

Even her, she can’t imagine both of them making a Guerrera leave. Para bang ang hirap-hirap no’n gawin.

“Baka over acting lang ako kagabi? Hindi naman sila sweet, e. Casual lang ang pag-uusap nila. Naisip ko lang na parang may mali na makita siyang may kasamang ibang babae, samantalang magkasama kayo bago ’yon.”

Bumuntonghininga siya. Daig pa nilang magkaibigan ang mga bubuyog na panay bulong lang kayang gawin. She don’t want to look on Zacariel because she wants him to feel that he’s not welcome. Para ito na mismo ang magkukusang umalis.

“Alam mo bang nandito ’yan kagabi? Pero hindi ko pinapasok. I don’t know what time he left, nakatulugan ko na.”

“Kung nandito siya kagabi para magpaliwanag, ibig sabihin, mali talaga tayo ng interpretasyon sa pagkikita nila ng ex-girlfriend niya?”

“I don’t know, Santi. Paano kung mali tayo? Nakakahiya ang mga sinabi ko sa kanya kagabi!”

“Ano ba ang mga sinabi mo?” kyoryoso ang kaibigan.

Yelena don’t even want to remember what she said to Zacariel. Lalo na kapag naiisip niyang baka nag over react din siya kagaya ni Santi! Paano kung mali sila ng akala?

“I told him that he’s a womanizer.”

Santi winced more. It looked like addressing Zacariel Guerrera as womanizer was embarrassing. Of course, Guerreras men are known for being one woman man. To accused one of them of being unfaithful or having a secret affair was ridiculous because they are not known for that.

“I said that he go to hell, too.”

Nalaglag ang balikat ng kaibigan na animo hindi siya kayang tulungan sa mga pinagsasabi niya kay Zacariel na hindi makatarungan. Nasapo ni Santi ang noo.

“Yelena, nakaya mong sabihin ang mga ’yon sa kanya? Parang ako ang nahihiya.”

“Remember, you were the one who sent the photo last night,” she raised her brow. “Kung hindi dahil doon, hindi ko siya aawayin.”

“But I sent it to let you know. Kasalanan ko pa?” umangat din ang kilay ng kaibigan. “At least, you know where he was last night. Tingin mo ba sasabihin niya sayo na kasama niya si Francha?”

She shook her head. “I’m not sure. Maybe he won’t. Kung hindi mo nakita, baka hindi niya rin sabihin?”

“But Guerrera men are not cheater.”

Hindi niya na alam kung kanino ba talaga kampi si Santi. He respects Zacariel so much that it was also hard for her friend to accused the man for being a womanizer just because he was with another woman.

“You know what, just talk to him. I’ll leave you both alone. Call me once you two are done talking. Okay?”

Hindi niya na nahabol pa si Santi dahil naglakad na ito pabalik kay Zacariel at nagpaalam na mag-go-grocery! Kahit hindi naman nito ginagawa ’yon! He was just making excuses for them to have time to talk.

Yelena left with no other choice but to confront Zacariel.

He shifted on his seat when he saw her walking towards him. He watches her every step that it made her heart beat rapidly.

She composed herself and sat at the single sofa. She couldn’t look at him in the eye because she’s embarrassed whenever she thinks about accusing him of the things that he didn’t actually do.

“How are you?” his first question made her glance at him.

He tried to catch her eyes but she didn’t allow him. Pinagsiklop niya ang mga daliri sa ibabaw ng kanyang kandungan.

“I’m okay. Uh, if you want to say something, just say it, so Santi can go back here.”

“About last night,” At wala na itong paliguy-ligoy pa. “Whatever you think it was, you’re wrong.”

“Still, you were with your ex-girlfriend. How can you explain that?”

“It was supposed to be a business dinner, but the investor didn’t make it on time and sent a representative instead. And that’s Francha.”

All along, their assumptions were wrong? What? Nasayang lang ba ang mga luha niya kagabi?

“It didn’t look like a business dinner with her.”

She can remember how Francha dressed up for that business dinner with Zacariel.

“I was surprised too, to see her last night. As I know, she’s out of the country.”

Dapat ay makaramdam siya ng kaginhawaan na hindi naman inaasahan ni Zacariel na si Francha ang magiging ka-meeting nito, pero mas nangibabaw ang pait dahil alam pa rin nito na nasa ibang bansa ang babae? What does it mean then? They still have communication?

Nagsalubong ang kilay niya nang hindi namamalayan. Nang tignan niya si Zacariel, naka-awang ng bahagya ang labi nito na para bang may nakakamangha at may kagiliw-giliw itong nakikita habang nakatingin sa kanya.

“But you’re happy to see her?”

He chuckled. “Why would I be happy? I expected a meeting with an investor and not with her representative.”

“Her?” she echoed. “The client was a woman?”

“Yes, it’s a woman. Is there a problem with that?”

Mabilis siyang umiling nang para bang naramdaman niya na kung may problema sa kanya ang babaeng investor ay ititigil nito ang pakikipag-transaction doon. She can’t describe why she felt the way. Was it on the way he delivered the question? Was it on the way he stared at her? She don’t know. What she knows is he was willing to do something if ever she said she don’t want him working with a woman.

“Baby, if you have a problem with me working with women, just tell me.”

“I don’t have,” her voice a bit defensive. “You can work freely. Wether it is a man or woman, I don’t mind.”

“So, is it okay with you if I continue working with Francha?”

Yelena’s eyes turned into slits, that made Zacariel raised his thick eyebrows in amusing way.

“You’re not gonna work with her. You’re gonna work with her boss. Right?”

Nagkibit ito ng balikat na animo hindi pa makasagot ng sigurado at deretso. “May mga pagkakataon na hindi pwede ang boss kaya ang representative ang nagpupunta sa mga meeting.”

So, if Francha’s boss was not available, there’s a big chance that she could be on the meeting with Zacariel?

“What are you trying to say? That there is a big possibility that you would work with your ex-girlfriend if her boss wasn’t around?”

“Uh-huh.”

“So what? It’s work, Zacariel. Don’t put the decision on me. It’s you who gonna work with them.”

She really felt like he wants her to decide for him! At kung susundin niya lang ang gusto, ayaw niyang mag trabaho ito kasama si Francha. No way! But she also know that’s she has no right to stop him even though he seemed like giving her a chance to decide for him.

“I just want to know your opinion about it, Yelena. I don’t want that to be the reason of our fights or misunderstandings once I seal the deal with them. Your opinion matters to me.”

Yelena was out of words for a moment. She didn’t expect him to tell her about all of it and she was surprised to know that her opinion is important to him. But she needs to stand by her words.

“If it’s all about work, then do it.”

Zacariel let out a sighed of relief.

“It’s all about work and nothing personal.”

Marahan siyang tumango. “Then, it’s fine. As long as it will help GCP, then work with them. Don’t mind me.”

When he moved and held her hand on her lap, she gasped a bit. The familiar sensation from his touch made her think about their heated moment together on his penthouse!

“I think, I wasn’t really clear about my intentions. Can you look at me?”

From watching the veins at the back of his hands that covers hers, she slowly looked up on his and their eyes met effortlessly.

“Listen carefully, okay? I’m not gonna repeat all of these,” he smirked.

“What is it?” her voice softened as if she’s hypnotized.

“Last night, you asked me if I have plans for us, of course I do have plans for us, Yelena,” he muttered gently.

“What are your plans for us then?”

She can’t stop her heart from beating wildly again. Sometimes it annoys her how he made her feel that way. For her, it’s very unfair especially when she sees that he don’t even have the same reaction like hers when she’s near him.

“I want us to be official.”

Kinagat niya ang labi nang maramdaman ang biglang pag init ng magkabilang pisngi.

Gusto niyang mahiya dahil naaalala ang mga tanong niya kay Zacariel kagabi!

“I want you to be my girlfriend.”

Hindi na maawat ni Yelena ang kalabog ng dibdib niya. Daig pa no’n ang tambol sa bilis at lakas ng hataw bawat pintig.

“And I am not just lusting over you. I am sure what I feel wasn’t just lust.”

He brought her hand on his lips and planted a kiss there, that made her lips parted. While kissing her hand, he was looking at her behind his thick lashes.

“Are you sure… you want me to be your girlfriend?”

It felt like it didn’t really happen. It felt like she was asleep and just dreaming that Zacariel Guerrera wanted her to be his girlfriend.

Can somebody pinch her? Can somebody wake her up?

“I am always sure when it comes to you.”

A smile crept her lips. “Okay. Girlfriend mo na ako.”

He groaned and she don’t know why.

“Bakit? Gusto mo bang patagalin ko pa ang sagot ko?”

“No,” he laughed shortly, then shook his head, amused. “I just didn’t expect you to say Yes right away.”

“Oh well, I need to be in a hurry.”

Of course, she would get married soon to someone else, might as well enjoy her life first being with Zacariel!

“No need to be in a hurry. We will take our time, Yelena. You just have to trust me with everything.”

“But for now, I’d like to make sure that we are really official, right?”

There’s a glimpse of amusement on his eyes while staring at her.

“Yes, we are officially in a relationship now,” he whispered and slowly crouched his head to have an access to her lips.

She closed her eyes and hold onto his forearm when their lips met and he started to kiss her thoroughly and passionately.

“Come,” he muttered sensually between their heated kiss, before he guided her to sit on his lap.

She jailed him with her both legs on his sides as they continued kissing like there’s no tomorrow. She mimicked his lips and tongue inside her mouth. Exploring, devouring and tasting every corner.

“Uhhh,” a low gasped escaped from her when he slid his one hand under her blouse and immediately found her nipple. He plays with it like what he always does whenever they were alone.

Nakapikit ang mga mata niya at damang-dama ang init sa pagitan nila. She don’t even care about her surrounding. All that she wants is to feel him again and to release all the heat inside her body.

10 ~ HOT (SPG)

CHAPTER TEN

THE fire is burning her again and she couldn’t do something to stop it because even her body wants it. She noticed how her body’s reaction changed when she met him again in Manila. Akala niya ay naturuan niya na ang sarili na huwag magpatupok sa apoy na dala ng binata dahil alam niya ang kakahinatnan niya sa huli. She will get burned and he wasn’t there to rescue her when she needed him.

Kaya lang, kahit na dumaan na siya sa sakit na gawa ng lihim niyang pagmamahal, lumipas man ang mga araw at buwan, hindi pa rin pala talaga nagbago ang nararamdaman niya sa tuwing nasa tabi niya si Zacariel. Hindi lang ang puso niya at apektado sa presensya nito, kundi pati na rin ang katawan niya.

She wasn’t that naive to know what her body wants. She wasn’t stupid to realized what she wants from him. Even when she was still a minor, she felt how her body react with his touch or caress. At first, she thought it was weird, but it didn’t turns her off. Instead, she liked it very much. She liked the tingling sensation that her hands gives her. She liked when their skin touched.

Everything that he does to her and to her body, feels like it meant for it. Itinalaga talaga sa kanya ang damdamin na iyon at sigurado siyang hindi lang siya ang taong nakakaramdam ng gano’ng klaseng kasabikan.

Zacariel’s kisses goes down her throat that made her tilted her head back to give him access. His one hand is caressing her waist, up and down. Then his fingers would touch the side of her boobs. It seemed like unintentionally but probably it was his way to tease her, so she would ask for more. It was a successful mission because it was effective. It made her arched her body to let him know that she liked the way he teased and caressed her.

Isa pang mahinang daing ang kumawala sa kanya nang dalawang palad na ang naglalaro sa magkabilang dibdib niya. His palms were fit perfectly on her breasts that felt like he’s made for them… he’s made to claim each of them.

“Zacariel…”

Tumagal ang labi nito sa leeg niya at medyo naramdaman niya ang marahan na pagsipsip sa balat niya roon. She knew because that’s what he does to her nipples. He would suck carefully, then when she moans, he would suck more like he was thirsty.

Parehong naninigas na ang ut*ng niya na tila ba naghahanap pa ng ibang magpapatigas sa mga iyon bukod pa sa mga daliring naglalaro sa bawat isa. The wetness on her inner thighs is making her grind her hips so she can feel him… something hard to match with her sensitivity.

Yelena grinds against the fabric of his pants until she found his belt, that made him let out a low growl while he was busy kissing her neck.

“Yelena,” his voice was raspy.

“Hmm?”

Her heavy lidded eyes couldn’t even look at him. She was too focused to rub herself against his belt. Or probably it wasn’t his belt all this time!

“Aren’t you sore?”

“Not anymore, I think.”

She can’t even feel the soreness on her femininity because she’s too wet and turned on.

“If you continue grinding above me, I might lose my control,” he breathed on her ear that made her giggled because it tickled her.

“I like doing this…” then she grinds again against his hard member.

Parang nahihirapan na umungol ito at itinigil ang paghalik sa leeg niya. He rested his back on the back rest of the sofa, and watch her sensually grinds above him, while his one hand is on her waist and the other one is caressing her thigh.

Ang mga nito ay namumungay na at ang paraan nang pag igting ng panga ay kontrolado. Animo pati emosyon ay kinakalkula bago pakawalan.

She gave him a seductive smile and caressed his jaw.

“Take me,” she urged him.

Napapikit ito at para bang nahirapan lalo.

Ngumuso siya sa kabila nang pamumungay din ng kanyang mga mata dahil nakakaramdam na naman ng matinding kasabikan na madarang sa nakakaliyong apoy kasama ang binata.

“Please, Zacariel…”

He growled, then heaved a sigh after a while.

“You’re really good at this, huh,” he has this faint smirk on his lips, like someone just defeated him but he wasn’t complaining. He’s simply accepting that he lost.

He ran his palm on her thighs until he found her panties. Her lips parted when he expertly slid his fingers and found her throbbing femininity. The moment he felt her wetness was the same moment he cursed.

She admit, she’s really turned on. And also maybe she’s fertile. She just want to feel the pleasure and she would get mad if ever he stopped.

“Aahh,” her moan echoes her ear again when he started to rub his finger on her flesh.

Alam na alam nito kung paano himurin ng daliri ang hiwa ng pagkababae niya na nagpapabaliw sa kanya. His long finger was magical and it brought her to her own paradise.

“Oohh, Z-Zacariel…”

Sinasabayan niya ang paghimod ng daliri nito sa kaselanan niya na para bang iyon lang ang paraan para maabot niya ang rurok na kanina pa siya tila hinihintay.

He would rub her femininity with his middle finger, while his thumb stays on her cl*toris, putting a pressure there, that made her moans loud and made her grind against it too.

Ibinalik nito ang labi sa kanya kaya sa pagitan ng halikan nila ay ang ungol din niya dahil nasasarapan sa paghimod-himod ng daliri nito sa pagkababae niya.

When he teases her entrance with his middle and forefinger, she gasped that made her stop from twirling her tongue on his, so he got that change to suck hers. Para siyang nalunod sa ginawa nito at nawala sa wisyo nang ipasok ang dalawang daliri sa entrada ng kaselanan niya.

“Oohh…” she’s literally sitting on his fingers.

“Move,” he whispered sensually.

Nakababad ang mga daliri nito sa loob niya at naghihintay na gumalaw siya upang tuluyang angkinin ang mga ’yon.

She don’t exactly know what to do but she’s aware that he wants her to move so she can feel his fingers more inside of her. When in fact, she felt those already, getting soaked with her wetness.

“Ride on my fingers for now,” his lips was on her earlobe, teasing her and making her giggle.

“And then?”

“You can ride on my face later.”

Her cheeks burned when an image of her popped her mind, sitting on his face while he’s licking her femininity! That was fire!

Yelena started to grind against the fingers inside her womanhood. Nakapikit siya habang ginagawa iyon kaya damang-dama ang sarap na hatid ng bawat senswal na giling niya.

And when he lowered his head and his lips found her nipple, she knew by then that she can reach her final destination any time soon.

“Aahh… ahhh…”

Her nipple was inside his hot mouth. Ang ungol niya ay nahahaluan ng daing dahil sa ramdam niya ang kasabikan ni Zacariel habang sinisipsip ang magkabilang ut*ng niya na para bang hindi sapat ang ginawa nito sa penthouse noong unang gabing nagtalik sila.

“Z-Zacariel,” hinawakan niya ang ulo nito.

“Sorry,” he muttered huskily then resumed with the sucking, but this time, it’s gentle.

Kaya habang abala ito sa dibdib niya, siya naman ay nagpatuloy sa pagkalunod sa ligaya na hatid ng mga daliri nito sa loob ng pagkababae niya.

She’s really looking forward to release the heat on her body, but he carefully removed his fingers.

“What…” her mood changed and she’s already disappointed.

But what she didn’t know, he’s already hard like a steel. The bulge in between his thighs felt like hurting him. Gusto nang kumawala ng ari nito at sa tingin niya ay para siyang mapaparusahan bigla.

He unbuckled his belt, then she’s the one who unbuttoned and unzipped his pants. She’s very eager to help him so they can both reach their climax. Pareho silang sabik sa isa’t-isa at hindi na makapaghihintay pa.

Zacariel hurriedly held her waist and lifted her a bit, making her feel his tip poking her wet entrance.

At dahil labis ang pagnanasang nararamdaman, dahan-dahan niyang ibinaba ulit ang sarili at inangkin ang nag-u-umigting nitong pagkalalaki na swabeng dumulas papasok sa loob ng kanyang paglababae.

Her flesh was throbbing and having him inside of her made it throbbed more and at the same time, it’s excited. Tila ba kaytagal no’ng naghintay na mapasukan, samantalang wala pang ilang araw pagkatapos nang may nangyari sa pagitan nila.

His husky growls sounded so sexy that it turns her on.

“Uuhhh… mmmm…” she moaned under her breath while making herself comfortable with his size.

“You’re still so tight,” he breathed on her neck, that made her knees trembled.

The way he caresses her waist giving her body a fire that could burn her in a few moment. Ang apoy na palagi niyang susubukang paglaruan kahit pa alam niyang sa huli, mapapaso lang siya at mag-iwan iyon ng hindi maaalis na marka sa kanya.

Yelena wanted to feel the moment of being one with Zacariel, but even though she’s so drowned with the heat, she can’t also ignore the fact that Santi might knock any time by now and she don’t want to be caught by her friend having sex with Zacariel Guerrera.

“Hurry,” she urged him, impatient.

He licked his lower lips in a sensual manner while his eyes were full of desire while watching her face, getting red for sure.

“Are you that… horny?” he mocked.

Ngumuso siya at nag iwas ng tingin. Maybe she was. Or he’s just so good in seducing her, kaya bumigay din siya agad.

“I just don’t want–aahh!” her mouth opened when he pinned her down and she felt a bit pain.

Yelena ignored whatever it was, and just continued with what they need to do for them to finish. With the help of Zacariel–guiding her on how she would move against his manhood, it became easy for her to please both of them.

“Oohh! Oohhh! Z-zacariel…”

Hindi niya na inawat pa ang sarili sa paghalinghing habang taas-baba ang katawan niya sa ibabaw ng binata. His thick and long manhood is hurting her but at the same time it pleasure her so much. Na kahit may hapdi na nararanasan sa bawat pagragasa ng ari nito sa pagkababae niya, mas nangingibabaw pa rin ang sarap na nagpapawala sa kanya sa katinuan.

He lowered down his head again and claimed her hard nipples while she’s moving up and down, then she would grind. As long as she felt satisfied, she won’t care with the way she move. Besides, she can tell that he likes what she does.

“Aahh… aahh…”

Medyo madiin ang hawak ni Zacariel sa bewang niya na tila ba gusto siyang pigilan sa galaw niya ngunit wala itong lakad para gawin ’yon. O hindi niya lang din maamin na baka nasasarapan din ito ng husto kaya siya tila pinapakalma upang hindi agad nito maabot ang rurok.

He wants to be in control, but she wants them to reach whatever they need to reach before somebody knock on the damn door. It was thrilling though, to have sex while also worrying about being caught.

“Yelena,” he says her name as if he warned her or he was about to have orgasm. She can’t tell, but its hot.

He grips on her waist and she can sense that like her, he was also near. They are both at the edge.

She kept on moving above him until she heard him cursed. Suminghap siya nang buhatin siya bigla ni Zacariel. At habang nasa loob niya ang pagkalalaki nito, naglakad ito papunta sa silid niya.

Niyakap niya ang mga braso sa batok ng binata upang mas magkaroon ng sapat na posisyon. He opened the door and closed it, before she felt the door behind her.

He’s supporting her butt and made her move up and down again. His strong arms secured her while they are both gasping and moaning.

“Mmm, Z-zacariel… aahh… oohhh…”

She’s sweating and her eyelids gets heavy. She rested her face on his neck and smell his manly scent. When he pinned her down again, that’s when she felt like something was going to explode inside her stomach.

Kinagat niya ang pang ibabang labi at pinigil ang malakas na ungol nang tila may sumabog sa kaibuturan niya at lumabas ang likido galing doon.

She felt him throbbed inside of her and right before he explodes, he pulled himself a bit. The reason why she felt his hot liquid flowing down her thighs.

Nanghihina at parang babagsak na ang katawan niya, mabuti na lang at dinala ni Zacariel sa ibabaw ng kama.

“I’m gonna clean you up.”

“I can do it later,” she whispered softly.

She saw the smirk on his lips before he parted her legs.

Nanlalaki ang mga mata niya dahil alam niya agad ang gagawin nito!

“Zacariel!”

His sexy short laugh made her blush.

“What?”

“Are you really doing that? I am soaking wet!”

“That’s the reason why I’d like to clean you up.”

“Really?” She almost rolled her eyes. “With what? With your tongue?”

“Yeah.”

Her cheeks burned. The idea is making her crazy and also she liked it! Huh, talagang aminado siya na gusto niya ang gagawin ni Zacariel? Hindi man lang ba siya magpapaliguy-ligoy man lang muna?

“Unless you don’t want me to use my tongue?” He started planting a feathery kisses on her thighs.

Her skin is still sensitive and his kisses made her feverish.

She can’t say no or yes, she just pouted her lips. And he knew by then, what will be her answer to his question.

Yelena closed her eyes and feel his hot tongue glided sensually on her wet and still throbbing femininity.

11 ~ NEWS

CHAPTER ELEVEN

AFTER her summer class in Manila, Yelena needs to go back home. Meaning to say, she needs to be away with Zacariel because he needs to work. She doesn’t even know if a long distance relationship would work between them.

Masyadong mabilis para sa kanya ang mga pangyayari. Noong nakaraang summer lang ay naghiwalay sila at hindi inaasahan na sa susunod na summer at magkakabalikan. It was really out of her plans. Maybe, it really meant to happen? That their paths will cross again? To start over again? And this time they want it official?

Yelena smiled after reading Zacariel’s text message. Beside her is Santi who was silent since they left Manila.

“What’s with that silence, Santi? What’s wrong?”

He sighed right away. Then he ttansferred his gaze to the window on his side.

“Is this about your parents? You can talk to me, you know that.”

Mahaba ang byahe nila. Kasama nila sa van ay ang driver, personal bodyguard ni Santi, at sa likod naman ay si Josie na kasambahay ng pamilya Laquesta.

“I don’t think this is the right time to talk about it, Yelena,” then he pointed his lips to the people with them.

Tahimik lang naman ang mga ito. Mag-u-usap usap lang kung may katanungan sa isa’t-isa o kung tumawag ang magulang ni Santi para kumustahin sila sa byahe.

“Pag-usapan nalang natin ang tungkol sa inyo ni Zacariel. You’re going to have a long distance relationship. Tingin mo, ayos ba iyon?”

Now that someone asked her that question, she started to think about it more. Oo nga, ayos lang ba na magkahiwalay sila ni Zacariel? Kailan kaya sila magkikita ulit? Ano ang magiging set up nila para mapanatili na maayos ang relasyon nila kahit na madalas ay magkalayo sa isa’t-isa.

“Siguro, ayos lang naman? Sanay naman ako na malayo sa kanya o kaya ay hindi siya nakikita.”

Advantage din siguro na sanay siya na walang Zacariel sa paligid niya. It felt like she can still live happily without him. Nakapagtataka na sa totoo lang ay wala siyang masyadong pakialam kung malayo sa kanya ang binata. O baka naman ngayon lang ’yon? Dahil nag-uumpisa palang ang relasyon nila at gano’n agad ang estado?

“Paano kapag namimiss mo siya? Pupuntahan mo siya sa Maynila?”

“Kapag miss na miss ko na talaga siya, pwede ko siyang puntahan sa Maynila-”

“Hindi gano’n, Yelena,” Santi cut her off immediately. “Dapat ikaw ang puntahan niya. He needs to make effort to see you and be with you.”

Yelena pursed her lips.

Hindi dahil babae siya, hindi naman ibig sabihin niyon ay ang lalaki lang dapat ang gumawa ng effort para magkasama sila. It should be both of them, right? To make a relationship last, they both need to exert effort and give enough time to be with each other.

“He can visit me if he’s not busy.”

“What if he’s always busy? Tapos ikaw, hindi naman masyado. Paano? Ikaw palagi ang magpupunta sa kanya?”

Halatang dismayado ang kaibigan.

“Hmm, only if missed him.”

“Tsk. Yelena, I think, you need to make up your mind. Try mo kayang ikaw naman ang hinahabol niya.”

For some reason, Santi’s last words hit her. Medyo masakit iyon siguro dahil totoo.

Sa kanilang dalawa ni Zacariel, sa palagay niya ay siya naman ang naghahabol. He didn’t even chase her after what happened last year. Nagpakita nalang ulit kung kailan kalmado na ang lahat.

He didn’t really make an effort to get her Yes to be his girlfriend. Instead, it looked like she was the one who really wanted a relationship with him. At dahil may namagitan na sa kanila, mukhang napilitan na rin si Zacariel na magkaroon sila ng opisyal na relasyon.

She got carried away by her emotions and by the heat whenever they were together. Ni hindi niya yata naisip na baka sa huli, siya pa rin ang talo. Dahil lahat na yata ng sa kanya ay naibigay niya na sa binata.

Being his girlfriend doesn’t gives her a guarantee that he’s really hers. Malay niya ba kung may iba itong katagpuang babae habang magkalayo sila?

She needs to always keep her mind that Zacariel Guerrera is the most playful compare to his brothers.

“Paano ka makakasigurado na wala siyang iba habang malayo ka?” tanong ni Santi na talagang nagpapamulat sa mga mata niya. “Hindi ko sinisiraan si Zacariel pero alam ko ang reputasyon niya sa mga babae, Yelena. Di ba nga, ex-fling siya ng pinsan ko.”

They were very young back then though when it happened. Santi told her that his cousin cried because of Zacariel. Wala sila parehong alam kung bakit. Pero ngayon na pareho ng nasa tamang edad, naintindihan nila ang mga dahilan sa likod ng mga luha.

“I have to t-trust him.”

“Hindi mo pa sinasabi sa akin ang mga plano niya?”

Tumango siya. “He said, he’s going to visit me and talk to my parents.”

“You told him that you’re parents already found a guy for you, right?”

“Yes.”

“Anong sabi niya?”

“Wag ko raw isipin…” she paused because Santi growled dramatically.

“I can’t believe I started to hate a Guerrera.”

Yelena wants to understand what Santi’s opinion about Zacariel. Ang kaibigan niya lang tangi ang natakbuhan niya noong basag na basag siya dahil sa nangyari last summer. Kaya hindi na siya magtataka kung bakit ayaw nito kay Zacariel. Kung sa kanya ay uso ang pangalawang pagkakataon, sa kaibigan niya ay mukhang hindi.

“You can hate me too for hating your boyfriend, Yelena. My opinion of him won’t change unless I saw him making so much effort for you.”

Halos buong byahe ay si Zacariel ang topic nila. Santi is very strict though. He’s worried she would get hurt again because of Zacariel.

It was already late night when she arrived in Casa Alta. Tulog na rin ang magulang niya at si Felipa ang sumalubong sa kanya na dala ang pusa niya.

“Meadow! I missed you!” Kaagad niyang kinarga ang alaga.

“May gusto ka bang kainin o inumin bago matulog, Senyorita?”

“Hot milk is fine. Thanks.”

Umakyat siya sa pangalawang palapag kung nasaan ang mga silid. Sa hallway ay nasalubong niya ang Kuya Russo niya na halatang aalis.

“Kuya? Gising ka pa? Aalis ka?”

He closed their distance then kissed her head.

“Welcome back. You must be tired. Take a rest.”

Nilagpasan siya nito pero napigil niya sa braso.

“Where are you going? It’s already late, Kuya.”

“May aberya sa minahan. I need to check myself.”

Unti-unti siyang tumango. She’s not into their family business so she don’t really have ideas what’s going on.

Sinundan niya ng tingin ang kapatid habang may kausap ito sa cellphone noong pababa sa hagdan.

Yelena fell asleep quickly and when she woke up next morning, Meadow is beside her. Ngumiti siya.

“Meadow, you’re here again. That’s where you should sleep,” she pointed Meadow’s sleeping bed.

Yelena grabbed her iPhone on the side table when it beeped.

From: Zac

Good morning. I have news. Let me know when you’re available to talk.

She have missed calls too from last night. She wasn’t able to text him because she was too tired.

To: Zac

We can talk before or after lunch. Whatever that suits you.

Yelena did her morning routine before she went out from her bedroom to eat late breakfast. Sa hapag ay naabutan niya na mag isang kumakain ang ina. Tila ba hinihintay talaga na may makasabay ito.

“Mom,” she kissed her cheek.

Her mother motioned her to her chair after.

“You seemed happy with what you did in Manila, Yelena.”

Hindi nakatakas sa kanya ang medyo pagka sarkasmo sa tinig nito.

Yelena put the earl grey tea bag on her cup.

“I am happy doing my passion, mom.”

“Did you really think it is worth your time and our money?”

Welcome home, Yelena!

Though, she expected that her mother is disappointed with her action, she can’t still deal it without being annoyed.

“It was a waste of time, darling.”

“It was not. Please, mom, let me do my thing before I get married to whoever you chose for me.”

Sumimsim ito sa tsaa. Pagkatapos ay marahan na ibinaba ang tasa kung saan kinuha.

“I wanna tell you something,” that sounded intriguing. “This would be a good news for you, I know that.”

“Ano naman po iyon?”

“Nakausap na namin ang lolo mo tungkol dito. He let us decide for this. I want you to think about this.”

Yelena shifted on her seat. She’s really intrigued!

Her mother was about to speak but her eyes went behind her. Nang sundan niya, nakita ang lolo niya na kadarating lang. He’s obviously done playing golf.

Tumayo silang mag ina upang magbigay respeto pero at nang makalapit ito sa kanya ay nagmano siya.

He sat on his usual spot and Matilde carefully poured his glass of orange juice.

“How was your summer class in Manila, Yelena?”

“It was interesting. I’d like to continue fashion design.” She said frankly.

The smirk on Federigo Altamonte’s lips told her that he’s amused and at the same time, dismayed.

“Well, you could. Nasa pag-uusap ninyo ’yan ng…” he paused then glanced at her mother. “Did you tell Yelena about the plan?”

“I was about to tell her, Papá.”

“Go ahead and tell her.”

Her grandfather is kind but he’s also strict even to them. Kaya naman medyo ilag din ang mommy niya rito.

“Anak, this would only happen if you convince your brother. Talk to him and tell him to get married first before you. Kung hindi papayag ang Kuya Russo mo, you have no choice but to get married first.”

Easy to say, but she’s already doubting that she could not convince her brother to get married. Kahit siguro magmakaawa siya? Was he that heartless though? Siguro sa iba, pero hindi sa kanya.

“Bakit po biglaan yata ang ganitong desisyon?”

Medyo napahinto sa pag inom ng juice ang lolo niya dahil sa tanong niya. It seemed like she just disrespected their decision for questioning them.

“Let just say… we don’t want your brother to be with someone that is not belong to our circle.” Her mother said meaningfully.

Only stupid person won’t understand what her mother’s talked about.

“If Kuya Russo already liked someone else, it would be hard for me to convince him to get married to a woman that you would choose for him.”

“That’s what I’m trying to say, hija. Baka kaya mo siyang paki-usapan na siya muna ang magpakasal bago ikaw. So, he would avoid that temptation.”

They cannot convince him to get married, that’s why they are using her? Dahil alam ng mga ito na hindi makakatanggi sa kanya ang Kuya Russo niya!

Yelena smiled with bitterness.

“Russo would only give me a heart attack, so I won’t meddle with this to avoid early death,” her grandfather said.

“He won’t listen to us,” her mother sighed. “But maybe he would listen to you, Yelena. Para sa iyo din naman ang gagawin mo, anak.”

That conversation left her in deep thought. Kaya habang kausap niya si Zacariel, hindi siya makapag-focus.

“Aren’t you happy?” he asked, a bit worried.

Yelena blinked. In front of her is the huge land where her father and grandfather used to play golf. Nagpahatid siya doon para makalanghap na rin ng sariwang hangin.

“Uh, I spaced out. What did you say?”

“I said, I’ll be in hacienda this weekend. I can visit you and talk to your parents personally.”

She should be happy that he will be there, but she couldn’t find that happiness because her mind is something else.

“Kung sa tingin mo ay masyado akong mabilis, sabihin mo lang. We can take this slow, Yelena. I don’t want to pressure you.”

Humugot siya ng hangin sa dibdib at unti-unting pinakawalan.

Hindi mawala sa isip niya ang ibinigay sa kanyang pagkakataon ng lolo niya. Kaya lang Alam niyang mahihirapan talaga siyang kumbinsihin ang Kuya Russo niya. Lalo na at mukhang may ibang babae na itong nagugustuhan.

“Zacariel, I have important things that I want to tell you. But I want to talk about it in person.”

“Alright. I’ll see you this weekend.”

“Uh, magpupunta nalang ako sa Hacienda. Doon nalang tayo mag usap.”

It took a couple of seconds before she heard him sigh. Para bang nalilito sa mga sinasabi niya ngunit nagtitimpi lang na magtanong kung ano ba ang bumabagabag sa kanya.

“I know that you are new to this kind of relationship, but please do know that I’m trying my best to be with you as often as possible.”

That put a smile on her lips. Hearing those words from him soothed her.

“Thank you for your effort,” that’s all that she can say.

“Are you really okay?”

“I’m fine, Zacariel. Masaya rin akong malaman na magkikita tayo. I want to go to Querencia.”

Thinking about the waterfalls and the nipa hut that they built their made her excited. Nakakalimutan niya ang problema na hatid ng sariling pamilya niya.

“We can spend more of our time there. If that’s fine with you.”

“I wouldn’t mind staying there as long as I’m with you.”

Her heart pounded. Suddenly, heated images of them in Querencia flashed her mind that made her cheeks burned.

What if it would happen again? There’s a big possibility that it would. Especially that she already experienced being one with him and it’s a good feeling. She liked every little thing about it.

12 ~ MISSED

CHAPTER TWELVE

BEFORE she’s going to meet Zacariel, Yelena decided to talk to her brother. She was waiting for the right time to approach him because he seemed very busy. Palagi itong wala sa mansyon. Russo spend most of his time in quarry while their father is the one that does paperworks.

“Kuya! Sasama ako sayo.”

Hinabol ni Yelena ang kapatid na pasakay na sa Navara. Russo paused, then looked at her.

“I’m going to Pampanga, Yelena.”

That’s where their biggest quarrying and mining located. They also have one closer to town and also they have in Bulacan.

“I wanna go. Wala akong gagawin dito.”

Nang tumango ang kapatid, impit siyang napatili. Pumasok ito sa driver’s side at siya naman ay tumakbo palapit sa front passenger seat. Kaya lang, naka-lock ’yon.

Russo motioned his sister at the back seat.

“Can’t I seat there?” reklamo niya nang makapasok na sa loob ng sasakyan.

“May kasama ako.”

“Sino naman?”

Hindi siya nito sinagot. He passed their drive way before she saw his phone lit for a new message. At dahil medyo magalaw ang sasakyan, hindi niya rin makita kung sino ang kausap ng kapatid.

Iyon ang araw na sasabihin niya sa Kuya Russo niya ang napag-usapan ng magulang nila at ng lolo. Ilang oras ang byahe sa Pampanga, kaya tiyak na magagawa niya ang plano. But when the pick-up stopped at the bus station, made her curious.

“What are we going to do here?”

“I’m here,” Russo said on the other line.

Maya-maya lang ay nakita niya ang magandang babae na palapit sa sinasakyan nila.

Bumaba ang bintana ng driver’s side. When the woman saw her brother, she gulped.

“Hi!” she greeted the woman when she hop in front passenger seat.

Nagulat pa ito na naroon siya.

“Hello!”

“That’s Yelena, my sister,” her brother introduced her.

“I’m Freja,” inilahad nito ang kamay sa kanya na magaan niya namang tinanggap.

“Are you working in quarry?” she inquired.

Russo looked at her through the rear view mirror. She just smiled sweetly at her brother.

“No. She’s not our employee.” Ang Kuya niya ang sumagot.

“Fresh graduate,” Freja said with honesty.

“Okay. Are you looking for a job?”

“Yes.”

“Office work?”

“I’d like to be in field.”

“Kaya ka isinama ni Kuya?” makahulugan niyang tanong.

Freja smiled awkwardly. “I just want to know how quarrying and mining works.”

Lumipas na ang dalawang oras pero hindi niya na makuha pang kausapin ang Kuya Russo niya dahil na rin kasama nila si Freja. Tahimik din pareho ang dalawa na para bang hindi masabi ang mga gusto dahil naroon siya.

That was the first time she saw her brother being with a woman. Marami ang mga balita na nagkaka-girlfriend ito o may mga babaeng nalilink dito, pero wala naman ni isang pinapakilala sa kanila ang Kuya niya. Kahit sa kanya man lang. Siguro dahil wala rin saysayy kung ipakilala nila sa pamilya ang boyfriend o girlfriend dahil hindi rin naman magtatagal ay sa iba sila ipapakasal.

They are already in expressway when her iphone vibrated for a message.

From: Santi

Where are you?

Yelena typed a reply quickly.

To: Santi

We are on our way to Pampanga. I’m with Kuya and his secret girlfriend, I think. Why?

From: Santi

I’m bored. Ayain sana kitang mag golf. Kailan ka babalik? Maganda ang girlfriend ni Kuya Russo?

Ngumiti siya at napatingin kay Freja.

One thing that she noticed when she saw the woman is her caramel skin tone. It looked sexy already. Her hair is dark natural brown which she can only see mostly with Latinas. She doesn’t look like pure Filipina though.

To: Santi

Kuya has a taste. That’s all I can say.

From: Santi

Take a photo of her. I wanna see!

She don’t want to do that, but she wants Santi to see Freja too. Pasimple niyang kinuhanan ito ng litrato kahit na hindi naman masyado makita ang buong mukha. Tapos ay isinend niya ’yon sa kaibigan.

From: Santi

She looks familiar. Ano name?

To: Santi

Freja.

She sent it and then read Zacariel’s new message.

From: Zac

I’ll buy here and give it to you.

Uminit ang pisngi niya nang mabasa ang huling conversation nila.

She told him that she wanted to take birth control pills. She’s happy that he supports her with that. Kahit na hindi naman sila palaging magkasama, gusto niya pa rin makasiguro na hindi siya mabubuntis. She will be really a disgrace to her family if she got pregnant by a man that is not the one her family chose for her.

To: Zac

Thank you. We are on our way to Pampanga. I’m with Kuya Russo. Are you going to have a meeting with Francha?

Like usual, Zacariel doesn’t reply immediately most of the time and she have learned to deal with it. Palagi niyang pinapaalalahanan ang sarili na abala ang nobyo sa trabaho kaya hindi makapag-reply palagi sa messages niya. He would always call at night though. Minsan naman ay video call. Tuwing gabi ito mas may oras sa kanya. Palagi siyang may ngiti sa labi bago matulog dahil nakausap niya si Zacariel.

From: Santi

Freja Artemis?

Yelena doesn’t have idea. Ayaw niya naman magtanong kay Freja. Nag reply nalang siya kay Santi na hindi niya alam.

Their quarrying and mining in Pampanga is the one that known in the country. It didn’t really interest her but she’s proud to see it in person again. They have a lot of workers too.

Naiwan sila ni Freja sa opisina ng kapatid niya dahil kailangan nitong kausapin ang iba pang namamahala roon.

Sa malayong harap ay tanaw niya ang maraming hollow blocks, buhangin at sa kabilang dako ay mga tipak na malalaking bato galing sa pinagbubungkalan. There are also big trucks and backhoes.

“Are you my brother’s girlfriend?” Yelena broke the silence in the room.

Mabilis na umiling si Freja. “No. We are just f-friend.”

“Hindi nakikipagkaibigan si Kuya Russo sa mga babae. Kung hindi ka niya girlfriend, fling ka niya kung gano’n?”

Freja’s lips parted a bit. She was shocked with her words.

“If you know my family, you are also aware with our tradition.”

“I am aware of that, Miss Yelena.”

Umayos siya ng pagkakaupo sa swivel chair. Sa harap niya naman ay si Freja na hindi komportable sa tila pag-i-interrogate niya.

“Even if you’re in love with my brother, it will be useless. Dahil magpapakasal lang siya sa babaeng pinili ng magulang namin para sa kanya.”

“I’m not in love with Russo.”

For some reason, it disappointed her that Freja was not in love with her brother.

“But do you like him?”

Freja avoided her gaze. Napalunok ito. “You know, I already liked someone else. Honestly, I think I am in love with him,” bumalik ang tingin ni Freja sa kanya. “Kahit na alam kong iba ang gusto ng magulang ko para sa akin, ipinagpatuloy ko pa rin ang relasyon namin.”

Ngumiti siya upang ipaalam sa kausap na ayos lang naman siya at kaya niya ang sarili kahit pa gano’n ang sitwasyon niya.

“But I don’t lost hope, Freja. He’s just lucky that they are rich, he can negotiate with my parents for me to marry him instead of the random guy my parents chose for me.”

“At kung hindi mayaman? Walang prebilehiyo?”

“Sadly, yes. Poor people are lacked of privileges.”

Tumango-tango ito na para bang naiintindihan ang sinabi niya at tinanggap nalang ang katotohanan na ’yon.

“if my brother told you that he’s in love with you, believe him.”

May bahid na pait sa maliit na ngiti nito.

“There’s no use, right? Kahit pa sino sa amin ang nagmamahal, wala rin namang silbi ’yon dahil sa iba naman siya nakalaan.”

“Habang wala pang napipili para sa kanya, pwede pa kayong magmahalan.”

Ano ba itong sinasabi niya? Hindi ba dapat ay i-discourage niya? Dahil gusto niyang ang Kuya niya ang magpakasal muna sa iba? Bakit itinutulak niya pa si Freja na ipaglaban ang kapatid niya? Kahit na alam niyang hindi iyon magugustuhan ng pamilya niya.

“I don’t think he’s in love,” Freja chuckled. “It was not love… for him.”

“Ano lang?”

Umiling ito. “Kalimutan mo na lang ang sinabi ko.”

“But you two are a thing, right?”

“You can tell that,” natawa ito at para bang nahihiya na iyon ang topic nila.

Yelena rested her back on the swivel chair.

“Freja, I don’t really know you, but I kinda like you for my brother. But, if you continue this, please bear with the consequences. My family is…” she sighed in dismay. “You know, they will be against with your relationship with my brother.”

“Thank you. I’ll keep that in mind. How about you? Hmm, your relationship with the guy that you’re in love with, is secret?”

“Only a secret to my family. Santi, my friend, knows about it. And you. Nauna mo pa ngang nalaman kaysa kay Kuya Russo.”

“I’ll keep that a secret too.”

“Do you want to know who’s the guy?”

Freja smiled more. “Sure. If you want to tell me.”

“It’s Zacariel Guerrera.”

Nanlaki ang mga mata nito at namangha.

Yelena smiled proudly. “He’s my secret boyfriend.”

Dumating ang staff na may dalang juice and snacks for them kaya nahinto ang pag-uusap nila. Hindi na rin nasundan dahil bumalik ang Kuya Russo niya.

“We need to stay for one night,” he informed them.

Pareho sila ng reaksyon ni Freja. Halatang hindi inaasahan na gano’n ang mangyayari.

“I don’t have extra clothes, Kuya.”

“Ako rin,” Freja mouthed at Russo.

“Go shop with Freja,” then he pulled out his wallet from the pocket of his pants.

Yelena giggled. Tumayo siya agad at kinuha ang black card na inabot ng kapatid.

“Where are we going to stay, Kuya? I want to be alone in my suite.”

“Mira will book the hotel.”

Freja gave Russo a small smile before they left his office.

Hinatid sila sa Mall ng isa sa staff gamit ang ibang sasakyan.

Noong una ay nahihiya pa si Freja na pumili ng damit dahil mahal daw ang mga naroon pero para sa kanya ay hindi naman.

“It’s cheap. Come on, Freja. We will use my brother’s card. Okay lang ’yan.”

After they bought what they need, they eat at the fine dining restaurant.

“We are rich, but my parents never spoil me. I don’t really have money aside from my allowances. Kay Kuya lang ako humihingi.”

Sa hotel sila dumeretso at nag check in. “Are you going to sleep with him?” she asked Freja.

Nalito ito at tinignan na dalawang suite lang ang naka-book!

“Ha? H-hindi ko alam. I’ll ask him.”

Hinayaan niyang tawagan nito ang Kuya Russo niya. Nang bumalik si Freja, nakasimangot na ito.

“Anong sabi?”

“Fully book daw.”

“So, sa kanya ka matutulog?” medyo natutuwa niyang sinabi. “You are both adult! My brother is gentleman, Freja.”

The woman only sigh.

Sa sumunod din na araw ay umuwi sila. Sabay-sabay silang nag almusal at napansin niya na sobrang tahimik ni Freja. She also can’t stand a long eye to eye contact with her brother.

Sa bus station nila ibinaba ang dalaga. Nang sila nalang ng Kuya niya sa sasakyan, hindi niya na napigilan ang pagiging kyoryosa.

“Do you like her?”

He glanced at her through the rear view mirror, but he didn’t speak.

“She likes you, I think. Or maybe she’s in love with you.”

He’s still unresponsive.

“But Kuya, she will only get hurt in the end.”

“It’s not your problem, Yelena.”

“Alam mo ba kung bakit ako sumama sayo? Gusto kitang paki-usapan na pumayag nang magpakasal sa iba para hindi na ako ang pilitin nila mommy,” mapait na sambit niya. “But now that I felt like you like Freja, it will be hard for you to marry someone else. Paano naman ako…”

“You have Zacariel.”

Nag angat siya ng tingin dito. “Paano mo nalaman?”

“He probably already knew what to do. So, stop being dramatic, Yelena.”

She stomped her foot and pursed her lips.

“I am not being dramatic, Kuya. Paano kung hindi pumayag sila mommy na si Zacariel ang pakasalan ko? At paano ako nakakasiguro na gusto niya akong pakasalan?”

Zacariel never told her that he wants to marry her.

“If he don’t have plan to marry you, then dump him.”

Mariin siyang pumikit. Parang nadagdagan ang problema niya.

“Yelena, if a man really liked you, he will conquer everything. If he couldn’t do that, he was not the one. Believe me.”

“But, you won’t really change your mind of marrying a woman that our parents choose for you?”

“I was clear about that ever since.”

“Kahit na magalit sila sayo, Kuya? Kahit na itakwil ka nila?”

Russo smirked. “I don’t want you to be a bad girl, but Yelena, don’t let them meddle with your relationship. Fuck their tradition. I would say.”

That’s a boost to her confidence. She really admired her brother’s audacity and braveness to break their family’s tradition. If only she could do that, she would.

Weekend came and she’s more than excited. Pinayagan na rin siya ng mommy niya na manatili sa Hacienda Guerrera.

Doña Zarita welcomed her with open arms.

“Hija, I missed you. Really. Akala ko hindi ka na babalik pa rito.”

“Mahirap po na hindi bumalik sa Hacienda. Napakaganda po rito at mababait ang mga tao.”

“Zacariel will be home tonight. I don’t know if that’s a coincidence or not.”

Yelena have Doña Zarita a shy smile.

They are new to their relationship and they don’t decide yet if when they gonna tell to his family about it. Sa pamilya niya kasi, malabo iyon. Unless, Zacariel make a way for her parents to give her permission to have a boyfriend that is not the one she’s going to marry.

Pakiramdam niya ay malabo pa rin sa kanya kung ano talaga ang mga plano ni Zacariel sa kanilang dalawa. He seemed like he don’t really give a damn with her family’s tradition. Alam naman nito na mawawalan ng saysay ang relasyon nila sa oras na ikasal siya sa iba.

Paulit-ulit niya nalang bang iisipin ang tradisyon nila? Bakit hindi niya nalang samantalahin ang mga araw na malaya siya at kasama si Zacariel?

Yelena took a cold shower that night. Zacariel arrived and they going to see each other at the roof top of the mansion. She’s wearing a light weight summer dress with thin straps.

Her heart pounded when she saw him expertly doing a stroke back and forth. The muscles on his back and arms moved violently in every stretch.

And when he reached the edge, he’s gasping as he rested his arms near the gutter.

She smiled at him and sat at the wooden chair. She don’t want to get wet, kaya pinili niyang hintayin ito roon.

Umahon ito sa pool. He’s tall and his vigorous built is making every girls drool. From his wide chest, ripped stomach, strong hairy legs, then he, himself, every thing is eye catching.

He got the towel next to the chair near her, then he crouched his head for a kiss on the lips.

Kinagat niya ang labi nang maramdaman ang tila nga paru-paru na nagliliparan sa loob ng kanyang tiyan.

He’s drying himself in front of her. She felt so blessed to watch Zacariel Guerrera freely. Pakiramdam niya ay abot kamay niya na ang noon ay pangarap lang.

“What’s on your mind? Hmm?” he raised his brow.

Pinagdikit niya ang mga labi. She’s hoping that he didn’t notice that she’s happy seeing him.

Zacariel pulled the other chair to get closer to her. Naupo ito roon, nakaharap ang katawan sa kanya. He’s giving her his full attention and it’s making her nervous. Her heart can’t stop from racing. Ang bawat tibok ay tila nagkakarerahan.

“I’m excited to see Querencia. It’s been almost a year.”

“I have it maintained and cleaned.”

“Akala ko ba ayaw mong may ibang makaalam ng lugar na ’yon?”

“Yes, but I need to make sure it’s clean. Especially that you’re back.”

Yelena nods her head a bit. The heat ran through her veins when Zacariel placed his palm above her lap.

“We still need to talk about a lot of things. If you have questions or if something is not clear to you, we can discuss all about it tomorrow.”

“I have a lot of questions in my mind. I will write it down tonight so I can tell you.”

His palm travelled up to her thighs. Malamig ang palad nito kaya naman parang tumataas ang mga balahibo niya. The wind is cold too.

“Uh, where’s my pills?”

“It’s in my room.”

“Kukunin ko mamaya.”

She can start taking pills though. Her period is done on that month.

“Anong oras tayo aalis bukas, Zacariel?”

“What time do you want to leave?”

“After breakfast is fine. Then we will stay in Querencia all day.” She can’t hide her smile.

“Uh-huh.” He crouched until she felt his lips on her neck. “What we gonna do all day there.” It wasn’t even a question.

“Maliligo? Kakain, magpapahinga at mag-uusap.”

“Mag-uusap,” ulit nito, sabay halik sa balikat niya.

What else they are going to do?

Her cheeks heated when she thinks about having sex with him! What a dirty mind she have!

Yelena cleared her throat then craned her neck to give more access to Zacariel to kiss her there.

A small moan escaped from her when he slid his palm under her dress and he skillfully found her breast. Marahan nitong minasahe iyon na dahilan kung bakit matindi ang pagpigil niya sa darating pa na mga daing.

“I missed you,” he whispered huskily.

She closed her eyes to feel his kisses and touch more.

“I missed you too,” she whispered back softly.

He angled his head and claimed her lips for a feverishly kiss while he’s gently palming her breasts. A gasp and moan escaped from her mouth between their kisses.

To know that she felt so thirty to be kissed by him and to feel his hands on her skin made her realized how much she missed him.

13 ~ PILLS

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

ZACARIEL licked his lower lips after the kiss. Namumungay ang mga mata nito habang nakatingin sa kanyang labi. His warm palm is now resting above her thighs. Her heart is beating rapidly because of what just happened.

Ang init ng pisngi ay umikot hanggang sa kanyang batok. Napalunok siya at pasimpleng humugot ng hangin sa dibdib. Though she misses him, she still didn’t expect the kiss especially that they are in an open area.

Paano kung may makakita sa kanila? Ano nalang ang iisipin sa kanya? Samantalang hindi pa nila ipinapaalam ang kanilang relasyon. She don’t want people around them to judge her easily. Especially that most of them are aware about their family tradition. She cannot just kiss a man who is not the one her parents chose for her.

Yelena’s eyebrows furrowed with the fact that she have a controlling family. Noon, iniisip niya na kailangan na respetuhin at sundin ang tradisyon ng kanilang pamilya dahil ang mga nakakatanda ang nakakaalam kung ano ang mas makakabuti sa kanila. Ngunit ngayong may sarili ng pag-iisip ay naliliwanagan siya na tila ba pag kontrol ang ginagawa ng pamilya niya sa kanila.

“What’s wrong?” he asked huskily when he noticed her reaction.

She pursed her lips. She just ruined their moment with her mood.

Umiling siya at ngumiti. “Nothing.”

“Yelena, you can tell me all the things that you can’t tell to other people.”

He once broke her heart but it doesn’t mean that she can’t trust him again. Siguro ay sadyang matindi lang ang nararamdaman niya para sa binata kaya naman mabilis din para sa kanya na ibalik ang buong tiwala rito. Besides, he is the one who really knows her and her family background. He can easily understand her and her situation.

Para saan pa kung itatago niya lang din kay Zacariel ang mga bagay na bumabagabag sa kanya tungkol sa pamilya niya? Alam naman nito ang takbo ng buhay nila.

“I just came to realized that I blindly allowed my parents to control my own life. I’ve been a good follower to them because I believed that they knew what’s best for me. Pero ngayon, na ako na ang susunod na ikakasal sa lalaking napili nila para sa ’kin, pakiramdam ko… may mali.”

Zacariel’s hand found hers. He squeezed it gently, as if comforting her.

“I’ll talk to your parents. Let me handle this, okay?”

“They gave me an option,” she informed him that made him more interested. “I need to convince Kuya Russo to marry this year, so my wedding would be move next year or whenever my parents wants.”

See? Even the date of her own wedding should be scheduled by her parents. Talagang taga-sunod lang siya sa gusto ng mga ito. Walang saysay ang boses niya dahil ang magulang pa rin ang masusunod. And she don’t want her grandfather to decide for her, because once he said that he wanted her to marry the man he chose for her, she can’t do anything but to do it. No excuses. No delays. It will be set up right before she said Yes to that.

“But I don’t think my brother wants to get married. May iba siyang gusto. Kahit siguro magmakaawa ako kay Kuya, hindi pa rin siya papakasal sa babaeng pipiliin ng magulang namin para sa kanya.”

Mahabang katahimikan ang namayani sa pagitan nila.

Zacariel is obviously in deep thought. Tila ba pinag-iisipang mabuti kung paano susolusyonan ang problema niya. Samantalang siya, gusto nalang takasan pansamantala iyon at maging masaya sa piling nito habang hindi pa ipinapakilala sa kanya ang lalaking napusuan ng magulang niya na ipakasal sa kanya.

“Can I get my pills? Baka makalimutan ko bukas.”

Zacriel nods his head. Kasama nitong tumayo ay ang kamay niya.

“Let’s go to my room.”

Nagpatianod siya na parang malayang agos ng tubig sa ilog.

Isang kasambahay ang nasalubong nila sa hallway. Bumati ito sa kanila at napatingin sa magkahawak nilang kamay, bago dumeretso sa pupuntahan.

Zacariel’s room is spacious. At the center of it is the king sized bed. The door on the balcony made her see the right side of the horse field outside. There are also some antique paintings on the neat wall.

He let go of her hand when she sat at the edge of his bed. He walked towards the night stand table and open the drawer. Pagkabalik sa kanya ay hawak na ang isang box ng pills. Umupo ito sa tabi niya at ibinigay sa kanya iyon.

“Thank you,” she accepted it with a bit of uneasiness.

“I bought only one box because I want to know if you would like that brand or not.”

“So we can always change the brand if ever I didn’t like the side effects?”

“Yes.”

“Kailangan ko lang ito kung palagi tayong magkikita,” uminit ang pisngi niya nang manliit ang mga mata ng kasintahan.

Hindi man direkta, pero parang naintindihan kaagad nito na kapag magkikita sila, tiyak na may mangyayari sa pagitan nila. She expected it to happen, but it seemed like Zacariel is confused.

“Hmm, I got what you want to tell me, but I want to make myself clear about that, Yelena,” he faced her and hold her hand.

“Huh?”

“Baby, this is not all about sex. This relationship is more than that.”

Ngumuso siya at nag iwas ng tingin. Siya lang talaga yata ang nag-iisip ng tungkol doon?

“Look, just because I want to be with you, it doesn’t mean I want to have sex with you. It’s not that. Gusto kitang makasama kahit walang gano’n.”

And here she is, thinking that whenever they are together and alone, they would have sex!

Yelena blushed, that made Zacariel groaned. Mabilis nitong natanto ang iniisip niya. Parang gusto niya na tuloy tumayo, tumakbo at magkulong sa silid niya dahil sa kahihiyan.

He chuckled huskily. “I hope you won’t see me as a man who always like to have sex.”

Mas lalong nag-init ang magkabilang pisngi nya. Siya talaga ang may problema sa kanilang dalawa dahil sa totoo lang, kapag mag isa na siya sa kama, naglalaro sa isipan niya ang maiinit na sandaling pinagsaluhan nila sa Maynila. And she’s expecting that it would happen again.

Hindi na siya makatingin ng deretso kay Zacariel. She’s guilty because she sees him as a man who is expert in bed and would have sex with her whenever they are alone.

“Naisip ko lang naman na posibleng may mangyari ulit sa atin kapag tayong dalawa lang.”

“But if you don’t want that, we won’t do that.”

“Talaga?”

Tumango ito na para bang sigurado na talaga sa desisyon na hanggat ayaw niya, hindi nila gagawin ’yon.

“At kapag gusto ko?”

Animo nahihirapan na napayuko ito at mariin na napapikit.

“Pero ayaw mo? Walang mangyayari?” patuloy niya.

“Dapat ay pareho nating gusto, Yelena.”

When his eyes went back on her, she can’t help but gulp. Tila ba bumalik ang init sa pagitan nila kanina habang naghahalikan at kaunting galaw lang, magliliyab ulit ’yon.

She placed her palm on his thigh without knowing that it affected him. She initiated the kiss and she knows that he won’t reject her.

A satisfying smile formed her lips when he angled his head to have a better access to kiss her.

Mahinang daing ang sunod niyang narinig galing sa kanya nang dahan-dahan siyang inihiga ni Zacariel sa kama. He’s on top of her, kissing her torridly. He lifted her both arms above her head and pinned her down as he devours her lips.

Nabitawan niya ang box ng pills at nagpakalunod sa nakakaakit na sensasyon. From her lips, his kisses went down to her neck. Napatingala siya at kusang bumuka lalo ang mga hita upang angkinin ito sa pagitan ng mga ’yon.

His hand on her wrists and his lips on her neck, made her body on heat already. Tila ba naghahanap ang katawan niya ng higit pa upang mas lalo ’yong magliyab ng tuluyan.

“Zacariel…” she called his name sweetly when she felt his lips teasing her nipples against the fabric of her top.

Marahan nitong kinagat ang dunggot niya kaya kahit na may suot pang bra, pakiramdam niya ay alam nito na sobrang apektado na siya.

His hand found the hem of her top and lifted it, revealing her chest. He pulled down the straps of her bra, before his one hand expertly found the hook at the back.

Kitang-kita niya kung paano masarap nitong dinilaan ang ut*ng niya. Mabagal at paulit-ulit. Ang mga balahibo niya sa katawan ay animo nagtataasan.

“Mmm…”

Her small soft moans, echoed their ears. Nakawala ang isang kamay niya at bumaba iyon sa ulo ng kasintahan.

He continued to lick her nipples alternately while she’s rubbing herself against his wet swimming shorts. She can feel him being alive and hard because of what she’s doing. To know that he’s affected too, made her proud of herself.

“Baby, you better stop if you don’t want me to take you here,” his voice was raspy.

“But I want you, Zacariel.”

He grunted and sucked her nipple hard, making her gasp. She watches him being addicted with her twin peaks that he won’t let them go until he’s satisfied.

Muli siyang gumalaw upang iparamdam dito na gusto niyang ipagpatuloy ang ginagawa nila. His hard manhood is a sign that there was no stopping… they will continued what they’ve started.

When his lips travelled down to her stomach, she couldn’t help but bite her lower lips. She knew what his next step and the anticipation is making her skin sensitive. Kulang nalang ay tulungan niya itong ibaba ang ulo sa pagitan ng mga hita niya, ngunit hindi niya ginawa. She knows how to wait. She knows that he’s not in a hurry. The more he moves slow, the more her body urge her to stay still.

It was slow but at the same time fast, because when she felt his hot tongue on her flesh, she knew that they gonna have a satisfying night.

They both decided that she would sleep on the guest room. She don’t want to bring a scandal in Guerrera’s mansion for sleeping in Zacariel’s room. Kahit na tila walang pakialam ang mga kasambahay na makita sila ni Zacariel na magkasama, ayaw niya pa rin na may pag-usapan ang mga ito na laban sa kanya kung sakali. Isa pa, she respects the Don and Doña. She don’t want to disappoint them.

Sa hapag kinaumagahan, nakasabay nilang kumain ang magulang ni Zacariel. Hindi siya sigurado kung nasaan ang mga kapatid nito o kung naroon ba at maaga lang mga umalis.

“I don’t want to be nosy this early but I can’t help, son,” his mother said. “May I know where are you gonna bring Yelena today?”

Zacariel carefully put down his cup of coffee after a sip.

“I’ll show her the plantation, Mamá.”

“How about bring her to dairy farm too?”

She heard that Guerrera’s have their own dairy farm, but she haven’t been there. She wants to see because she’s curious and also she likes petting animals.

Zacariel glanced at her for a question that he didn’t voice out but she knew what it was.

“Gusto ko pong mapuntahan ang dairy farm, Donya Zarita. Bukod po sa planta.”

“You’d like the fresh milk, hija.”

“For sure. I like cows too.”

Tumango si Zacariel bilang pag kumpirma na gagawin nila ang gusto niya.

“Oh, you are like Ataliana pala.”

“Kuya Zarick’s girlfriend,” Zacariel informed her.

“Is he in dairy farm?”

“Yes.”

“Palaging naroon si Zarick. Kahit hindi naman siya mahilig sa mga baka,” mabining tumawa ang Donya ngunit mas may tunog naman ang tawa ng Don.

“Zarick would be embarrass if he was here, darling,” Don Patricio said, chuckling.

“Our children always think that we don’t know their activities.”

Zacariel cleared his throat. He wanted to say something but his father spoke.

“I don’t mind my sons doing what they want. I only worry with our daughters.”

“I suggest not to worry anymore, darling. Zalanna ang Zakia are in good hands.”

Wala na talagang pag-asa na makatuluyan ng Kuya Russo niya ang isa man lang sa dalawang senyorita dahil pareho ng may kasintahan ang mga ito.

Pagkatapos nilang mag almusal ay nagpunta sila sa kwadro para kunin si Silencio. Ang sanang pagpunta ng maaga sa Querencia ay na-unsyami dahil gusto niya rin munang makita ang dairy farm.

“We can stay all day in Querencia tomorrow. Okay lang naman, di ba?”

Nakasakay na siya sa kabayo at nasa likod niya naman naka-upo si Zacariel. He’s jailing her with his strong veiny arms while he’s gripping on the rope.

“Walang problema.”

“May girlfriend na pala Zarick?”

“Kuya,” he emphasized the word for her.

Umikot ang mga mata niya. “Kuya Zarick. Matagal na sila ng girlfriend niya?”

“I think so.”

“Siguro last year pa? Nakita ko na kasama niya si Ataliana noong birthday ni Don Patricio. I think that was Ataliana.”

“Maybe. I don’t want to be nosy about my brothers activities or love life.”

“How about ate Zalanna and Zakia? Are they staying in Manila with their boyfriends?”

“No, Zalanna is somewhere with Caston and Zakia is in Guimaras.”

Every time he spoke, his minty breath hits her nape. She tied up her hair because of the weather. The reason why his breath easily affects her skin.

“Nag asawa na sila?”

“They live with their partners for now.”

“Sino ang mauunang ikasal?”

“Probably Zalanna.”

“Then, ate Zakia?”

“It depends.”

Kumunot ang noo niya. Kahit na nagtatanong kay Zacariel, ang mga mata niya naman ay nasa ganda ng paligid. Maaliwalas, maayos na ang mga kalsada, at pansin niya rin ang mga taong napapatingin at hindi kapag nadadaanan nila.

“It depends of what?”

“If they want to get married after Zalanna. If not yet, then maybe we could be the next.”

Dahil siguro sa tunog ng mga yabag ng kabayo o ihip ng hangin, kaya tila nabingi siya sa huling sinabi ng kasintahan.

“Huh? Who’s next?”

She felt him kiss her nape, but he didn’t say a word anymore.

Sinalubong sila ni Zarick nang makarating sila sa farm. May isang tauhan naman doon na kinuha si Silencio para itali malapit kung nasaan ang kabayo ni Zarick.

She embraced him and did a cheek to cheek kiss.

“I’m happy to see you again, Kuya Zarick!”

He let out a hearty laugh and patted her shoulder while she was hugging him.

“Glad to see you again roaming around hacienda, Yelena.”

Zacariel gently grabbed her arm away from his brother.

Galing sa maliit na bahay, lumabas ang pamilyar na babae. Nakangiti ito nang lumapit sa kanila.

“Hello, I’m Yelena,” she said with a smile.

“Ataliana,” then they shook hands. Tumingin ito kay Zacariel at tumango bilang pagbati.

“Stop being so polite with my brother, Ataliana. He’s not your boss.” Zarick said and glared at Zacariel.

Tumawa si Yelena. Kahit siya, sobra rin ang respeto sa mga Guerrera kaya naiintindihan niya ang reaksyon ni Ataliana.

“Gusto niyo ba ng maiinom?” tanong nito.

“Ayos lang ako,” si Zacariel ang sumagot. “Do you like to drink something?” anito sa kanya.

“Cold water is fine, Ataliana. Thank you.”

“Okay. Kukuha ako. Halika, doon tayo.”

Naglakad sila papunta sa munting bahay. Sa bandang gilid no’n ay ang tila pahingahan. Sa harap ay ang malawak na lupain na napapaligiran ng mga berdeng damo, puno at halaman. Ang tunog ng mga baka ay bago sa kanyang pandinig.

Sa malayong harap ay ang ilang mga baka na malayang naglalakad ng mabagal at kumakain ng mga damo. That kind of view is also new to her. Medyo maingay man ang ginagawang tunog ng mga baka ngunit ramdam niya ang kapayapaan sa parteng ’yon ng hacienda.

Sa duyan naupo si Yelena at binusog ang mga mata sa magandang paligid. She can say that Hacienda Guerrera is really one of a kind. It seemed like the place didn’t exist in real life, but it did.

Habang pinapanood ang mga baka na malayang naglalakad at kumakain ng damo, habang umiihip ang hangin sa anomang direksyon na gustuhin nito, at habang nakikita ang mga taong bagamat hindi katulad ng sa kanya ang estado ng pamumuhay ngunit halatang masasaya at kuntento, bigla siyang nakaramdam ng lungkot para sa sarili. Tila kinukurot ang dibdib niya.

And suddenly, she hoped to have a peaceful life one day… a life that would give her real freedom… and a life that she can be herself without anyone controlling it, but her.

14 ~ MARRY (SPG)

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

“ANG lolo Amado ko ang namamahala dito sa Bakahan. Tumutulong ako noon sa pag-aalaga ng mga baka para may extra allowance ako.”

Habang sinasabi iyon ni Ataliana, hindi maiwasan ni Yelena na mamangha. Hindi marahil naglalayo ang edad nila pero halata na mas may kakayahang kumita ng sariling pera si Ataliana kumpara sa kanya. Hindi sa minamaliit niya ang sarili, hindi lang din siguro siya nagkaroon ng pagkakataon na subukang mag trabaho para masuportahan kahit papano ang sarili.

Guerreras have their own foundation where they helped students with their studies. They provided scholarships to the youth in town, especially those who lives in hacienda. And Ataliana is one of the scholar. Bukod pa roon, may extra income ito sa pamamagitan ng pag-aalaga sa mga baka.

While Zarick and Zacariel are talking with the workers, she and Ataliana are sitting at the wooden chairs near the house.

“Ikaw ba? Ano ang pinagkakaabahalan mo sa ngayon?”

“Katatapos ko lang mag aral sa Maynila ng fashion design. It was a summer course. Gusto ko sanang ipagpatuloy pa, but my parents didn’t like the idea.”

Ataliana’s eyes became gentle. Para bang kahit hindi niya sabihin ang buong istorya, naiintindihan siya nito.

“Bakit naman ayaw nila? Magandang kurso ’yon at halatang bagay sayo.” Tapos ay pinasadahan siya nito ng tingin.

“If you know my family, you will know our tradition too.”

Ataliana looked confused for a moment. “Oh, is it really true that your family is into arranged-marriage?”

Yelena nods her head slowly, then gave Ataliana a faint smile.

“Paano kung hindi mo naman gusto ang lalaki? Papakasal ka pa rin?”

Muling umabot ang mga mata niya kung nasaan si Zacariel. Pakiramdam niya, ito lang tangi ang pag asa niya para hindi siya maikasal sa iba.

“Sisiguraduhin ko na hindi ako maikakasal sa iba… sa ngayon.”

Napansin ni Ataliana ang mga sulyap niya kay Zacariel. Kahit na kyoryoso ito sa kung anoman ang namamagitan sa kanila ng binata, hindi rin naman ito sumubok man lang na magtanong. Kaya lang, dahil siguro sa mga iniisip niya, gusto niyang bawasan ang mga ’yon sa pamamagitan ng pag amin sa totoong estado nila ni Zacariel.

Ang sabi nga nila, mas madaling maging bukas ng libro sa taong hindi mo masyadong kilala dahil mas mataas ang posibilidad na hindi ka nito huhusgahan kaagad. She barely knew Ataliana and even though they just met, Yelena felt like she could trust her.

“Hindi ko kayang magpakasal sa iba kung may iba akong gusto, Ataliana.”

“Naiintindihan kita, Yelena. Is there any way for you to… you know, marry the one you liked instead?”

“My parents already found a guy for me. Hinihintay ko nalang kung kailan ipapakilala sa akin. Kaya habang hindi pa, susulitin ko na ang mga oras na kasama ko siya,” sabay lingon niya kay Zacariel na saktong nakatingin sa kanya. She waved cutely at him, that made him smirked.

“Hindi ba pwedeng si Senyorito Zacariel nalang ang ipakasal sayo?”

Nilingon niya si Ataliana na tila ba nagkaroon ng problema dahil sa sitwasyon niya.

“I wanted him even before. My parents even made a way to arrange my marriage to him, but unfortunately…” she couldn’t finish, she just smiled sadly.

“I really thought it was Zarick that you wanted.”

Umiling si Yelena. “Zarick just a brother to me like Kuya Zacarias.”

“Did Zacariel refused marrying you?”

“You can say that.”

“But, why are you together now if he didn’t want you?”

She understand Ataliana’s confusion. Gano’n din naman ang naramdman niya noong lumapit ulit sa kanya si Zacariel. She was curious and confused because she didn’t know his reasons why he suddenly forced himself to her. When in fact, he didn’t want her.

“He probably realized that he wants me.”

“Or maybe he waited for the right time?”

“We can say that, Ataliana. I was seventeen back then. Siguro, ayaw niya rin talaga sa akin dahil sa edad ko.”

Bahagya itong natawa na para bang naka-relate talaga.

“Hindi na ako magtataka, Yelena. Zarick didn’t like me when I was still a minor. He wasn’t friendly to me. Nagparamdam lang siya sa akin na interesado siya noong nag eighteen na ako.”

Pakiramdam niya ay lumiwanag ang mukha niya nang malaman iyon.

If that’s the case, siguro, gusto naman din talaga siya ni Zacariel noon? Hindi lang ipinagpatuloy ang nasimulan nila dahil menor de edad siya? Understandable.

“It could be a same case with you and Zacariel. Guerreras like young women but not minors.”

“And Kuya Zacarias is with young girl din, right? Tatianna? If I am not mistaken.”

“Yes. Tatianna. She’s from here, too.”

“Hinintay niya rin kaya si Tatianna?”

“Siguro.”

“At hinintay ka rin ni Zarick?”

Bahagya itong napanguso at tumingin kung nasaan si Zarick. “Oo. Inamin niya sa akin na naghintay siya hanggang sa mag eighteen ako.”

“Then, Zacariel waited for me, too?”

“I am sure he waited. You wouldn’t be here with him if he didn’t.”

Nang bumalik ang dalawang Guerrera sa gawi nila, nag aya na si Zacariel na umalis. Gusto niya pa sanang makipag kwentuhan kay Ataliana, kaya lang ay ayaw niya namang sirain ang schedule nila sa araw na ’yon. Besides, she can stay more days in hacienda. They can always visit the dairy farm. She can still see and talk with Ataliana.

Para bang kahapon lang nangyari ang lahat nang makabalik siya sa Querencia. The moment she heard the waterfalls, was the same moment her memories with him last summer flashes her mind.

She was genuinely happy to be there and be with Zacariel. She even imagined her future with him without knowing that the fate wasn’t on her side that time. At sa muling pagbabalik niya sa lugar kung saan nabuo ang matinding pagtingin niya para sa binata, lihim siyang umaasa na sana sa pagkakataong iyon ay umayon na sa kanya ang tadhana.

In front of the majestic waterfalls, she closed her eyes and silently made her mind free to say whatever it wants to say.

If he was not really meant for me, why am I still here with him? If he was just a temporary happiness for me, I wanna know when would everything ends between us, so before that day comes, I would be ready to let him go. But if this was just a trial before I would get a victory, I wanna be strong to fight for what we have until I won. If he was meant for me… may I ask for a sign?

A warm arms suddenly enveloped her waist just right after she whispered the last words.

The way her heart thump violently seemed like the question had its answer right away. Hindi na pinatagal pa at hindi na umabot ng ilang segundo. Antimano na tila binigyan siya agad ng senyales na hiniling niya.

“What are you thinking?” he whispered on her neck.

Nakangiti na idinilat niya ang mga mata at sinalubong nang nakakamanghang bagsak ng tubig na nasisinagan ng gintong sikat ng araw. The water falls endlessly like how her heart beat constantly.

“I asked for a sign,” she honestly answered.

“A sign for what?”

Gusto niyang palaging maging tapat kay Zacariel kahit na sa mga simpleng bagay lang. It was her feelings and she wants him to know that. She doesn’t want to hide anything from him.

“If you are really meant for me.”

That made him paused from kissing her shoulder. His embrace tightened a little bit that she can feel his hard chest against her back.

“Even if without a sign, I’m gonna make sure that whatever you wanted to achieve, I’ll be here to support and guide you.”

Her heart melted just like that. He never changed when it comes to supporting her dreams. He was like that before and even until that very moment.

“And if ever you didn’t get the sign that you asked for, I’ll be right here… very willing to give myself to you,” the rasp on his voice was soothing and at the same time it gave her stomach so many butterflies.

No matter how much she wants to face him and to kiss him, she can’t get a courage to do so. Nangilid bigla ang mga luha sa kanyang mga mata at hindi inaasahan ang pag dagsa ng emosyon niya.

“Zacariel…”

He rested his chin above her shoulder while possessively embracing her from behind.

“I’ve been dreaming for this day to happen again. Watching the waterfalls with you… in peace.”

Tila may tumusok sa puso niya dahilan ng pagkirot niyon. She liked Querencia but after her heart had broken, she never think of going back to that place again. Because it would only reminds her of him and their memories.

To know that he had been dreaming to be back there with her, was like a punch to her heart. He waited for this day to happen again while she never imagined that that day would happen again.

“I had to reject your parent’s proposal because I wanted to give you time…” he muttered, making her gasped.

Sa lahat nang pangyayari, ang tungkol sa bagay na ’yon ang hindi niya inaasahan na bubuksan ng binata sa mga sandaling ’yon.

Ang mabilis na pintig ng puso niya ay lumala pa at ayaw na talagang magpa-awat.

“I wanted you to achieve all your dreams. I wanted you to enjoy your life without worrying that you are going to get married any time. Kahit na sa akin pa ’yon, Yelena.”

Bumigat ang kanyang pag hinga at ang nagbabadyang luha ay dadaloy na sa kanyang pisngi.

“I just didn’t expect you to dump me without hearing my side,” he chuckled bitterly.

“You broke my heart,” she pursed her lips and sobbed. “What did you expect me to do?”

He kissed her shoulder lightly. “I’m sorry.”

“Why you didn’t chase me?”

Marahan itong natawa. “Because you were just seventeen. It was a breath to me though, that you stayed away from me.”

Nanliit ang mga mata niya. Gusto na itong harapin kaya lang ay ayaw niyang makita nito na lumuluha siya sa paraan na naiinis siya at masaya. Maaari pala talagang umiyak sa gitna ng pinaghalong damdamin na magkasalungat.

“It was a breath to you because you had a girlfriend-”

“No. It was a breath to me that you left me because you were a wild young girl and I was worried I couldn’t resist the temptation.”

“But we still did that.” She talked about their heated moments before. “We were tempted.”

“And it was not right, Yelena. I hated myself for doing that.”

“It’s fine. Gusto ko rin naman ’yon. I made you do it. I initiated it, Zacariel.”

“Kahit na,” he sighed. “Hindi pa rin ’yon tama.”

“Forget about it. It was in the past. I’m eighteen na, so, hindi na kasalanan ang nangyayari sa atin.”

He let out a breath. He sounded stress all of a sudden.

“Maybe, let’s just stop doing that. Let’s focus on what we need to do on how to convince your parents about-”

“What? Ano ang hindi natin gagawin?” sa lahat, iyon lang tangi ang malinaw sa kanya!

“Baby, I am not here for sex. We can set that aside. Let’s focus on-”

“But, I like to have sex with you, Zacariel.”

He grunted. Para bang nadagdagan ang problema nito. She can sense his furrowed eyebrows. And he’s sighing.

“We will have sex every day or night, or whenever you want, but we need to get married first.”

Nagkandahaba-haba na ang nguso niya at nagsasalubong na rin ang mga kilay. She can’t believe he can be with her without it or without being intimate. Sa kanilang dalawa, siya talaga ang mas agresibo pagdating sa bagay na ’yon. He can control himself, but it felt like she can’t do it to herself.

“So, we are not going to… have sex today…” nag init ang pisngi niya nang marinig ang tawa nito.

Yinakap siya nito ng mahigpit at hinalikan sa pisngi.

“Gusto mo ba?”  nakakaliyong bulong nito sa leeg niya.

Napalunok siya at sa gano’n lang ay para nang nag iinit ang kanyang katawan. Kung hindi lang mahangin at hindi malamig ang tubig sa harap nila, baka nga ay pinagpawisan na siya.

“I am trying hard to control myself, but if you’re this aggressive…” his lips travelled up to her cheek. “Maaga kitang mabubuntis,” he whispered huskily, that something between her thighs throbbed.

“H-Hindi pa. I will take pills regularly.”

“You better. If you don’t want to get pregnant this early.”

She slowly face him. When their eyes met, they knew to each other that they couldn’t let that day pass without their body being one. The desire that she’s seeing on his eyes mirrored hers.

Zacariel cupped her jaw and angled his head for sweet passionate kiss.

Ipinikit niya ang mga mata at iniyakap ang mga kamay sa matitigas na braso nito.

His soft lips and the way he kiss her, made her lose her mind. Para siyang nasa ibang mundo na silang dalawang ang tao. Bagamat pamilyar ang lugar, tila siya nawawala pa rin at ang paraan lang para hindi tuluyang maligaw, ay ang sumama rito at magpa-agos sa kung saan man siya nito dalhin.

They are both panting when they reached the hut without breaking the kiss. Mabilis ang kilos nila at sabay na hinuhubaran ang isa’t-isa. They throw their clothes everywhere and he started to kiss her chest.

Nakahiga siya at nasa ibabaw niya si Zacariel na para bang ilang taon silang hindi nagkita sa sobrang kasabikan. Samantalang may nangyari sa kanila kagabi lang!

She giggled when he carelessly parted her legs widely. She’s all naked and the wind from outside gave her chills. Kung hindi lang nakapatong sa kanyang ang kasintahan, tiyak na lalamigin siya kaagad.

She bite her lower lips as she watch him playing with her nipples with his tongue. She can see the red marks around her breast from last night.

“Uhhh… uhhh…” napapapikit siya sa tuwing sisipsin nito ang ut*ng niya, palaging pinanggigigilan.

When he stopped kissing her nipples, he also left her and lay his back beside her.

“Are we going to stop?” she asked innocently.

Zacariel’s lips form a lazy smirk. “No, baby. I want you to sit on my face.”

Her cheeks burned and her stomach felt like fluttering so much. Kakaiba na rin ang init na nararamdaman niya sa pagitan ng mga hita. Tila na sobrang nananabik na ’yon at kanina pa gustong bigyan ng atensyon.

He held her waist to guide her above him. Habang kagat ang pang ibabang labi, nanginginig din sa tuwa ang katawan niya. Pakiramdam niya nga ay pati ang mga ugat niya ay naging aktibo lahat.

When he finally got the position that he wanted her to do, he moved his hands on her breast.

She gasped when she felt his breath hit her femininity. Alam niya na kaunting baba niya pa ng kanyang balakang, maaabot na ng dila nito ang hiyas niya.

When she didn’t move, he was the one who did.

Isang marahan na daing ang kumawala sa labi niya nang maramdaman ang dila ng kasintahan na mabagal na humihimod sa pagkababae niya. He was always taking his time until she couldn’t take the sensation anymore, that she needs to move herself to reach whatever the hell she wanted to reach.

“Hhhmm… aahhh! Hhmmm…”

Tuluy-tuloy ang mga ungol niya nang siya na mismo ang gumagalaw para palapatin ang pagkababae niya sa mainit na dila ng binata. Paminsan-minsan ay talagang dinidiinan niya at minsan naman ay hahayaang niyang abutin ng dila nito ’yon.

Napatingala siya, nakapikit at tila ba nawawala na sa tamang wisyo dahil sa sarap na dulot ng kamunduhan.

“Ohh… Zacariel… hhhmmm…”

He was patient but he was also aggressive. Kapag alam nitong sobra na siyang nasasarapan, mas binibilisan nito ang galaw ng dila at idinidiin siya para hindi siya maka-alis.

Another long moan echoed when he pinned her down on his tongue and she felt him sucking every corner of her womanhood. She’s soaking wet and throbbing.

Umahon ang tiyan niya nang naipon doon ang kiliti hanggang sa bumaba sa kanyang tiyan. Lumakas pa lalo ang mga ungol niya at nag umpisang manginig ang mga hita nang hindi na siya pinakawalan ni Zacariel at literal na naramdaman niya kung paano nito kainin ang pagkababae niya. Paikot-ikot ang dila at tila walang kapaguran.

Hinang-hina siya kaagad nang lumabas ang likido sa entrada niya. She placed her hands on his head not to stop him but to at least give her body the right balance. Dahil kung hindi, baka mapahiga nalang siya bigla.

When he’s finally done with her juice, he position her beside him and they are both laying on their sides. Behind her is him. She felt his hard manhood, poking her butt cheek.

Mabilis pa ang pag hinga niya at rinig niya rin ang malakas na pintig ng kanyang puso. Kahit pa gano’n, handang-handa siyang magpa-angkin sa kasintahan.

Zacariel let her rest her head on his arm, while his other arm is around her waist.

He poked her entrance with his hard tip that made her bite the inside of her cheek. Bumalot din ang init hindi lang sa pisngi niya kundi na rin pati sa buong katawan.

Ang labi nito ay nasa balikat niya, marahan na humahalik halik papunta sa kanyang batok. Ang isang kamay naman ay umakyat sa kanyang dibdib at sinakop ang isa.

Her eyes shut closed and her mouth opened a bit when he thrust forward making his hard like a steel shaft invaded her femininity. Hindi agad ito gumalaw, bagkos, ibinabad sa loob ng pagkababae niya ang nag-uumigting na ari nito. Na tila ba may gustong iparating sa kanya.

“You gonna marry me, right?” he whispered hoarsely on her ear.

She can’t really focus with his question because the way he rested all of him inside of her made her so horny and all her attention was on it. On how it feels so good having all of him inside.

He moved more making her moan. Malalim ang ginawang ulos na halos maramdaman niya ang dulo ng ari nito sa kaibuturan niya. Kakaibang kiliti ang naging dulot niyon at hindi niya na magawa pang ibigay ang atensyon sa ibang bagay.’

“Answer me,” he thrust deeply again that made her gasped in so much pleasure.

She hugs his one arm on her waist and crane her neck she he could kiss her on that part.

“I’ll be the one you are going to marry,” he murmured as he started to pump gently but he goes deep.

Ang mabagal, marahan at malalim na ulos nito sa loob ng pagkakababae niya ay mas nagpapabaliw sa kanya. Nagpapainit din iyon lalo ng kanyang katawan at nasasabik na malasap ang sarap na ito lang mismo ang kayang magbigay sa kanya.

Nang umahon ito ng bahagya upang maglapit ang mga labi nito, napadaing siya sa ligaya dahil bumaon lalo ang ari nito sa loob ng pagkababae niya. Her nipples are hard and the way he plays it with his thumb made it harder.

He claimed her lips and she answered his kisses right away while he continued pumping inside of her.

Mapusok ang halikan nila at ang paglabas-masok ng ari nito sa pagkababae niya ay tunay na nagpapa-apoy ng pagnanasa na nararamdaman para sa isa’t-isa.

“Ohhh… Ohhh… Zacariel…”

His heavy breathing, the sounds that they made as he claims her, and her sexy moans, became their favorite music aside from the waterfalls.

15 ~ NAUGHTY

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

ZACARIEL only have a few days off. It wasn’t enough but she understand his situation. He has work waiting for him in Manila. He has meetings that was already scheduled before they met. On their last day in Hacienda Guerrera, they made sure that it will be worth remembering.

They spent the night in Querencia. Sa pagkakataong iyon, mas nagka-usap sila ng masinsinan. They have privacy and they can talk face to face.

It felt like all her worries disappeared when he told her about his plans. Kakausapin nito ang magulang niya para hingiin ang kanyang kamay.

Sa totoo lang, kahit na naiisip niya na magpapakasal silang dalawa sa huli, ang marinig mula rito ang gano’n klaseng plano ay nagpapamangha pa rin sa kanya. Pati ang tibok ng puso niya ay apektado rin. Kaya habang nag-uusap sila, madamdamin na kumakalabog iyon.

She liked all his ideas. She admired how he plans things that involved them. Especially, the marriage.

Masyado bang mabilis ang lahat? Hindi ba pagmamadali ang ginagawa nila? Pero, gugustuhin niya bang mabagal na gumawa ng hakbang? Kung gayong, may plano na ang magulang niya para sa kanya.

In front of the bonfire, they both watched how the dried woods burned slowly together with the dried leaves. Ang apoy ay tila gintong nasusunog sa gitna ng karimlan. At ang bawat upos ay nahuhulog na para bang lava galing sa nag-aalburotong bulkan.

Even the way the woods were burning is astonishing. Hindi niya akalain na ang simpleng apoy ay pwedeng maging maganda sa paningin ng isang tao.

Zacariel held her hand. While she’s resting her head on his right shoulder.

“They didn’t look disappointed to me. It felt like they expected you to refuse their proposal about arranged-marriage. Guerreras are not into it and my parents knew that from the beginning.”

Napunta ang usapan nila sa nangyari noong nakaraang summer vacation. Kung dati ay pait ang bumabalot sa dibdib niya kapag nagbabalik tanaw sa kabanata na iyon ng buhay niya, ngayon na kasama niya si Zacariel at narinig niya ang mga plano nito para sa kanilang dalawa, ang dating pait ay naglaho. Napalitan ’yon ng kaginhawaan na nahalinhinan ng hindi maintangging kasiyahan.

“Sinubukan lang nila kung papayag ka dahil napansin nilang gusto kita.”

There was no reason to hide what she really feels for him even before. It might be a shame to admit it but that’s the reality. She liked Zacariel Guerrera ever since.

Marahan itong natawa. Halatang naaaliw.

“Paano ka nakakasiguro na gusto mo ako? You were very young that time, Yelena.”

“I felt it. I admired you as my big brother before. But my feelings has changed eventually.”

“When did it change?”

“When I saw you again.”

“That was last year?”

“Yes. Dati ka ng gwapo pero mas lumala ngayon.”

Admitting that fact made her blush. But she really didn’t care. She wants him to know her feelings. In that way, he will be reminded that once he made a mistake, it could affect her and she would be hurt. If he genuinely cares for her, he wouldn’t make things that could hurt her feelings. It was like a reminder for him to think first before making a move that involves her.

Hinalikan nito ang ibabaw ng ulo niya. His arm around her waist tightened a bit.

“You are always confident and I admired that about you.”

“I was taught to be one. Pero sa totoo lang, kapag nariyan ka, pakiramdam ko nawawala ang confidence ko.”

“Why’s that?”

“You seemed like too hard to handle. You are intimidating, Zacariel.”

“I am, but I made sure not when with you.”

Yelena pursed her lips.

She can tell that he is indeed intimidating, especially when he was at work or around with their employees and business associates. He looked really one. Siguro dahil alam nito kung sino ito at ano ang mga kayang gawin. After all, he’s one of the Guerreras. They might known for being humble, private and polite, but they are also sharks in business world. They won’t be on top if they were not wise and hardworking.

“But you made me nervous all the time.”

Marahan ulit itong natawa. He sounded like what she said was funny and unbelievable.

“Totoo,” giit niya. “I’ll get to use with your presence eventually.”

“You will.”

Naisip niya kung ano kaya ang nararamdaman ni Zacariel kapag nasa paligid siya? Sigurado siyang magkaiba sila, pero kyoryoso siya kung anong klaseng damdamin ang naipaparamdam niya rito?

“Uh, how ’bout you?”

“What ’bout me?”

Yelena’s lips formed a shy smile. The fire in front of them made her feel warm too. Bukod pa sa init na nanggagaling sa katawan ng kasintahan.

To be with him in that scenario was something that she didn’t even try to imagine. Matayog man ang pangarap niya para sa puso niya, pero ang makasama muli si Zacariel sa lugar na naging espesyal sa kanya, sa harap ng magandang talon, at sa liwanag na likha ng apoy, ay ang klase ng mga imahe na tiyak na magmamarka sa isipan niya.

She wants to cherish every bit of the moments being with him. She wouldn’t know what would happen next. She might as well make every seconds worth remembering.

“Am I making you nervous?”

Zacariel paused for a moment. Probably, stunned by her question. He resumed smelling her hair and caressing her stomach.

“What do you think?”

“I don’t think I make you nervous.”

Why would he feel nervous by the way? He was used being with different people who is more intimidating than him, but he knows how to deal with them. Kaya paano ito makakaramdam ng kaba sa isang babae lang? When in fact, he was really the one that make people felt nervous with just his presence.

“Sometimes,” he whispered casually as his lips kissing her cheek.

Gusto niya itong tignan pero ang paraan ng paghalik nito sa pisngi niya ay tila pagbabawal sa gusto niyang gawin.

“Talaga?” she’s in awe and she couldn’t hide it. “Nakakaramdam ka rin ng kaba dahil sa akin?”

He didn’t answer her. He played like deaf but she wants to continue that conversation. It caught her interest so much.

Did she really make Zacariel Guerrera nervous?

“Bakit ka kinakabahan? Paanong kaba? Bumibilis din ba ang tibok ng puso mo? Like mine, Zacariel.”

He groaned. He obviously wanted to end that topic. Lalo at napansin nitong sobrang interesado na siya at ayaw nang magpa-awat.

“Let’s just talk about our future, Yelena.”

Ngumuso siya. Talagang iniwasan nito ang topic na gusto niya.

“Okay, fine. So, what about our future? After we get married, where are we going to live?”

“That’s a good question. Where do you want to live?”

Umirap siya. Tanong niya, sagot niya, eh?

“I want to be away with my family. I’d rather live in Manila, Zacariel.”

He sighed.

“I understand that you don’t like the way your family force you to follow their tradition, but I hope you would change what you feel for them once we get married.”

Siya naman ang bumuntonghininga. She doesn’t need to pretend when she’s with him because he knows her. Kaya hindi niya na rin itinanggi pa na ayaw niyang tumira malapit sa pamilya niya sa oras na ikasal silang dalawa. She’s worried that her parents would make her do things again against her will. She doesn’t want her life to be dominated again with other people even if they are her family.

With Zacariel, she felt more free and secure. Wala siyang pangamba na pipigilan siya nito sa mga bagay na gusto niyang gawin at mga pangarap na gustong maabot. She couldn’t blame herself for liking him because she found her freedom with him. He’s one of the very few people who supports her to pursue her dreams.

“Only if they would stop meddling with my decisions in life. Only if they would not force me to do what they wanted me to do.”

“They probably would if you’re already married to me, Yelena.”

She slowly nods her head. She’s trying to understand everything that they talks about.

She just realized how important having a family to him. Given the fact that he has a complete family, his parents also supports them with everything that they want to do. Don Patricio and Doña Zarita didn’t even meddle with their children’s love life. Binibigyan ng mga ito ang anak ng kalayaan na pumili ng taong makakasama sa buhay. Isang bagay na ipinagkakait sa kanya ng sariling pamilya.

“You’re very lucky to have a supporting parents, Zacariel. No wonder a lot of people admired Don Patricio and Doña Zarita because that’s how a parent should be. Supportive. And they respect their children’s choices in life.”

She felt him kissed the side of her head.

Hindi niya napapansin na lumalalim na ang gabi dahil sa masinsinang pag-uusap nilang dalawa. Bagamat bumibigat na ang talukap ng mga mata, pinanlalabanan niya dahil gusto niya ang paraan kung paano nila ubusin ang bawat segundo sa araw gabing ’yon.

“I aspired to be like them when it comes to our children. Kung gagawin natin ang ginawa ng magulang ko sa amin, hindi tayo magkakaro’n ng sakit ng ulo sa magiging anak natin.”

Even though he didn’t meant that she’s such a headaches to her family, the way it hits her felt like she was. Or maybe she’s just guilty.

“Kung sayo magmamana ang magiging anak natin, hindi talaga sasakit ang ulo natin.” Right? Because he’s responsible and also disciplined.

“Hmm.”

“Kapag sa akin nagmana, uh, good luck sayo?” sabay hagikhik niya.

“I can deal with another you though.”

Yelena’s lips parted. Kulang nalang ay deretsahang sabihin nito na sakit sa ulo nga talaga siya!

“If my parents were like your parents, I wouldn’t be their sakit sa ulo ’no!” sabay irap niya sa hangin at sumimangot. “They are the reason why I am such a headaches to them.”

“Do you want to go inside?” the way he whispered felt like he’s seducing her.

Yelena faked a yawn, the nods her head.

Nang nasa loob na sila, dumeretso siya sa munting higaan nila. While Zacariel has to check his phone for a while.

She’s watching how the thin curtains danced with the wind. The sounds of the waterfalls always soothed her. The darkness outside didn’t scare her anymore. Maybe because she knows that she’s safe because she’s with Zacariel Guerrera.

After checking his phone, he laid next to her. His one hand automatically wrapped around her waist and he pulled her closer to him.

Imagine, they would be like that every night once they get married. Gigising siya sa umaga at ito ang bubungad sa kanya. It was such a dream!

“So, are we going to live in Manila after we get married?” she resumed that topic.

“Uh-huh.”

“We will live there because it’s more convenient for you. That’s where you work.”

“Aside from that, you are going to study fashion design in Manila. It’s convenient for both of us.”

Para bang may kumurot sa puso niya nang marinig ang sinabi ni Zacariel. She didn’t even think of that right away. Ito pa mismo ang naunang maka-isip ng tungkol sa pag-aaral niya at sa kurso na gusto niya.

“A-Ayos lang ba talaga sayo na mag-aral ako kahit mag asawa na tayo?”

“Yes. I want you to pursue your dreams, Yelena.”

She can’t help but silently took a breath and slowly let it go. Pakiramdam niya ay may mainit na palad na humaplos sa kanyang puso.

“Ayos lang sayo na hindi ko pa magampanan ang pagiging asawa mo?”

“Enlighten me with what you’re trying to say.”

“Uh, like… cooking for you? Or doing groceries? Hmm, what else is a wife’s duties?”

He chuckled heartily, making her blushed.

Malambing siya nitong yinakap lalo.

“I have a housekeeper and a cook. You don’t need to worry about those stuffs.”

“But I would like to do groceries some times and cook for you too.”

“We’ll do it once in awhile if you like.”

Tumango siya at hindi napigilan ang ngiti sa labi. This kind of conversation is overwhelming.

“I like to learn how to cook, Zacariel.”

“Don’t pressure yourself, Yelena.”

“What else do you want me to do as your wife?”

He shook his head. “Just live with me and I’ll be fine.”

“We will live together. I want you to be specific so I’d be ready.”

“First, we will get married, you will live with me in Manila and you will study.”

“That’s all?”

“And we will have sex anytime we want.”

Uminit ang pisngi niya at bahagyang pinalo ang braso nito.

“I don’t think we will have sex every night or day. You’d probably tired from work. So you’d rather rest than have sex with me.”

“Oh? You wanna bet, baby?” he’s taunting.

She smirked. “I would only know once we get married. I would keep my words for now.”

“And if I won, what I’m gonna do with you? Huh?”

His palm travelled up on her breast. The way his thumb found her nipple made her bite her lower lip.

“You can do whatever you want for me,” she muttered sexily.

He moved a bit so his lips reach her ear.

“I’d like to tie you in our bed, make you beg for me, and make your body writhes while I’m between your thighs,” he whispered in a rasp tone.

Napalunok siya at ang init ay umikot sa kanyang batok. She can also feel the heat inside of her but she tried to ignore it. That’s how he can easily affects her.

“I would like that, Zacariel.”

She heard him cursed under his breath. He’s still not use to her being straight forward. Also she knows how to tease him and he wasn’t ready for that.

“Naughty,” then he tickled her waist, that made her shrieked and laughed.

That’s how their night ended in Querencia; full of laughter, meaningful conversation and she got to know his intentions clearly.

16 ~ CASA ALTA

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

WHAT Yelena didn’t expect is a call from her mother when they got back in Hacienda Guerrera. Her iPhone was turned off the whole time they were in Querencia. Kaya naman naglabasan ang text messages galing kay Santi at sa mommy niya noong binuksan niya ’yon.

“Mom is calling,” she showed the screen to Zacariel.

Nasa labas sila ng kwadra. Pinapakain nito si Silencio. Habang ang ibang tauhan naman ay ang ibang kabayo ang inaasikaso.

Her iPhone kept on ringing. She doesn’t want to answer the call because she’s worried that her mother would only scold her or give her a bad news. Ayaw niyang masira ang araw niya.

“You don’t want to answer the call?”

Mabilis siyang umiling. Nang huminto ang pag tunog ay saka lang siya tila nakahinga ng matiwasay.

Zacariel stopped from feeding his horse. He faced her to give her his full attention.

“I didn’t tell you that I texted your mom yesterday.”

She frowned. “What did you tell her?”

“I arranged a meeting with them.”

Umangat ang kilay niya. Hindi niya rin maintanggi ang kaba na unti-unting kumakalat sa dibdib niya.

They already talked about their next steps but she didn’t expect him to be that fast! Wala pang bente-kwatro oras ang nakalipas noong mag usap sila kagabi pero gumawa na agad ito ng hakbang para maayos ang suliranin niya.

“That’s why my mom is calling me.”

“She texted me this morning and invited me to Casa Alta tonight.” That’s their mansion!

Yelena’s mouth opened a bit. Really? Her family really liked Zacariel Guerrera! Kahit na tinanggihan ang mga ito noon ng binata, para bang hindi pa rin nawala ng pag-asa.

“My parents really likes you.”

He shrug his shoulders in a smug way. “Who wouldn’t like me for their daughter?”

She leered at him. He’s that confident that he could be boastful.

Who wouldn’t like a man like him by the way? He’s from a prominent and respectable family. He never had a bad records. He and his siblings are known for being polite despite of their status in life. And most importantly, Guerreras men are known as a one woman man.

Oh well, except Zacariel? Or maybe she judged her enough. That she thinks he’s kinda likes more women? That she already created an image of him being the most playful and womanizer in Guerrera’s clan.

“Ang yabang mo naman,” aniya at umirap.

“We’ll go there together.”

“And after that, you’ll go back to Manila?”

“I still have to arrange my schedule to skip some meetings or I’ll probably do it online. So I can stay longer here.”

Gumuhit ang malapad na ngiti sa labi niya. Dahilan kung bakit supladong nag-iwas ng tingin sa kanya si Zacariel.

“I can stay here while you’re here.”

“If your parents allows you.”

“There was no reason for them to stop me. Besides, we will get married, di ba? Hindi pa ba nila ako papayagan na manatili dito sa hacienda?”

“We have to wait for their decision, Yelena.”

“What do you mean? Paano kung hindi sila pumayag na tayo ang magpakasal? Ano ang susunod nating gagawin?”

“I don’t think about that right now. What I want to tell you is we still need their consent if they allow you to stay here or not.”

Humalukipkip siya. “I’ll text my mom that I want to extend my stay here.”

There’s a glimpse of amusement on the way his eyes stares at her. He then took a few steps forward to close their distance.

She’s tall but she’s still needs to looked up just to see his face. Dahil kung hindi niya ’yon gagawin, hanggang sa dibdib lang nito ang kayang abutin ng mga mata niya.

“You really want to stay with me, huh?” he carefully tuck some strands of her hair behind her ear.

“I hope you feel the same?”

“Of course.”

She smiled sweetly at him. “Sana payagan din nila ako na mag stay sayo sa Maynila kahit na hindi pa tayo kasal.”

Nanliit ang mga mata nito habang nakatitig sa kanya. Tapos ay nag-isang linya ang labi.

“Gano’n din naman, di ba? We are going to stay in one roof eventually. Let’s make it early na.”

He suddenly tilted his head and closed his eyes tightly. He licked his lower lips so that he could suppress a damn smile.

His adams apple moved that for some reason, it looked hot. He’s wearing a cotton v-neck shirt, faded pants and boots. The muscles on his arms were eye catching. Even the way his veins protrudes didn’t escape her eyes.

She held the shirt on his chest part. Para siyang paslit na nanghihingi ng atensyon. Kulang nalang ay pilitin ito na gano’n ang sabihin sa magulang niya para payagan siyang manatili sa Maynila na kasama ito.

“Zacariel, it’s a good start for us. At least, we will get to know each other better by living together before we get married.”

Humalakhak ito na para bang hindi na napigilan ang galak o nakakatawang bagay na kanina pa nagpapasaya rito.

“What’s funny?” medyo inis niyang sabi.

He’s chuckling when he shook his head. Ang mga mata ay maliwanag. Halatang nagagalak.

“I imagined you being in my office all day, than in our penthouse while waiting for me to get home.”

“I could be in your office too. Wala naman akong gagawin sa penthouse. Unless I started my fashion design class.”

“But for now, let’s prepare for tonight’s meeting with your parents.”

Agaran siyang tumango. Hindi pa rin makapaniwala na kakausapin na ni Zacariel ang magulang niya para hingiin ang kamay niya. She must tell Santi about it!

Lunch came and she ate with Zacariel and his parents. Hindi pa nila napag-usapan kung kailan sasabihin sa mga ito ang relasyon nila. One of the thing that she likes about his parents is they don’t meddle with their children’s love life. She doesn’t feel the pressure of confessing her relationship with Zacariel because of the freedom that they have. It was their choice if when they are going to let them know about their current status.

“We’ll have our dinner in Casa Alta, Mamá.”

“Are you going back here tonight?”

“Yes.”

“How about Yelena?”

Nahinto siya sa tanong na iyon ni Donya Zarita.

“Nagpaalam na po ako kay mommy. Babalik din po ako dito mamayang gabi.”

Zacariel glanced at her. She didn’t tell him that her mother allowed her to stay in Hacienda Guerrera for a few more days. She wanted to surprise him with that though. Napa-aga nga lang ang munting rebelasyon niya.

“That’s good to know, hija. You know that you’re always welcome here, right?”

“Opo.”

“Hindi ka naman siguro nag bakasyon dito para lang kay Zacariel?” mapanukso ang Donya, dahilan kung bakit talagang nasamid siya.

Mabuti nalang at maagap na nahaplos na Zacariel ang likod niya at inabutan pa siya ng tubig.

The way his mother’s laugh made her cheeks burned. Para bang alam nitong may kung ano sa kanilang dalawa ng anak nito at na-kumpirma lalo nang masamid siya.

“I have no problem with you if ever you like my son-”

“Mamá,” awat ni Zacariel.

“I honestly expected both of you to have a relationship,” patuloy nito at hindi nagpaawat sa anak. “Sayang lang at hindi natuloy noong nakaraang taon. But seeing you two reunited made me happy.”

Nawalan siya ng sasabihin. Nahahati sa kung aamin ba o hindi nalang talaga magsasalita. Mabuti nalang din at iniba ng Don ang usapan nila.

“Send my regards to Federigo, Yelena.”

Federigo is her grandfather.

“I will po.”

Matiwasay na natapos silang kumain at hindi binalikan pa ang tungkol sa kanila ni Zacariel. May ilang oras pa sila bago bumyahe papunta sa Casa Alta. She used that time to talk with Santi through video call.

“I’ve been calling you. Ganyan ka talaga kapag kasama si Zacariel. Nakakalimutan mo na ako.” May pagtatampo sa boses ng kaibigan.

Yelena is laying on bed. It supposed to be a siesta time but she chose to just call her best friend to tell him the good news.

“I had to turn off my phone, Santi. I don’t want my mother to disturb me.”

“Paano naman ako? Ikaw lang ang kaibigan ko, Yelena. I have problem.”

Santi dramatically sighed. He’s also inside his bedroom. Nakahiga rin kagaya niya pero halatang may problema nga ito.

“What happened?”

“My personal bodyguard left me.”

“Bakit naman? Inaway mo?”

Santi winced. Then shook his head.

“Let’s just say that he had enough of me. He’s professional but he obviously don’t like me.”

“It’s his problem. It’s his lost.”

“But I felt like my heart is broken, Yelena.”

Siya naman ang napangiwi. She knows that Santi has something with his personal bodyguard, but to know that his heart is broken because of him is surprising.

“Maybe you’re just lonely? Do you wanna hang out?”

Nabuhayan ang kaibigan kaya napangiti siya.

“I’d like that! Pero paano? Kasama mo si Zacariel ngayon, di ba? At nasa Hacienda ka?”

“Yes. But we will go to Casa Alta for dinner. Zacariel will talk to my parents and you know what?” Sinadya niyang bitinin ang kaibigan.

“What?”

“I have a very good news for you, Santi.”

“Spill the good news, Yelena.”

“Zacariel will marry me!” she shrieked and smiled widely.

She sees how Santi’s eyes widened. He even covered his mouth with him palm because he’s also surprised!

“No way?!” he shook his head but his smile is getting wide too. “Really? What did you do? How did you convince him?”

“I’ll tell you in person. Right now, let’s just talk about your heart problem and see what I can do to make you feel better.”

“Aw, that’s so sweet…” Santi looked like he’s melting. “But you know what, Yelena, I feel lighter to know that Zacariel finally decided to marry you. I am happy for you.”

Ngumiti siya. “Salamat, Santi. You’re special to me and you deserve to know what’s going on with my love life.”

“When are we going to celebrate? I’m excited!”

Tumawa sila pareho. She doesn’t need a lot of friends because she’s contented with Santi. Aside from him, she also have Zacariel who she can trust.

It was already dark when they arrived in Casa Alta. Her mother is the one who welcome them. The way her eyes twinkled when she saw Zacariel is a sign that she’s glad to see him.

Mas nauna pa nga nitong nilapitan ang binata kaysa sa kanya.

“Hijo, we are delighted that you’re here. It’s been a long time.” She kissed him cheek to cheek.

“I’m glad to be back here, Tita.”

That’s how confident he was to addressed her mother. Samantalang siya, Don at Donya pa rin ang tawag sa magulang nito kahit pa pwede namang Tito at Tita din.

“Mom,” siya na ang lumapit sa ina at nakipag beso rin.

Saglit lang siyang tinignan nito at ang paraan pa ng tingin ay tila may ginawa siyang kasalanan. It made her confused though.

“Let’s go inside. Papá and your Tito Safrano are waiting for you, Zacariel.”

Zacariel is casually walking beside her mother while she’s on the other side. She understands that they don’t need to be so clingy towards each other because they are with her family.

Sa malawak na sala ay nakita niya ang pagtayo ng kanyang lolo at ng ama niya. Parehong mukhang istrikto ang mga ito kaya hindi niya maintindihan kung bakit binoto ng mga tao. Samantalang, kahit siya, ilag sa dalawa.

The men greeted each other in a formal way. Hindi pa muna ang mga ito nagpunta sa hapag. They stay there while having some light drinks.

“What did you do?” her mother asked in a low tone beside her.

“What, mommy?”

“Come,” sabay simpleng hila nito sa braso niya papunta sa swimming pool area. “Ano ang sinabi mo kay Zacariel at biglang gusto kaming kausapin?”

She doesn’t want to tell her mother the reason. Gusto niyang magpanggap na wala siyang alam sa gagawin ni Zacariel. She wants her family to know that it is his will why he wants to marry her and not because she told him to do so.

“Ano po ang sasabihin ko sa kanya?”

“I don’t know to you, Yelena. But I am sure that he won’t set a meeting for nothing. He won’t waste his time for a casual dinner.”

“He just told me that he wants to meet you, dad and lolo.”

May pagdududa pa rin sa paraan ng pagtitig sa kanya ng ina.

“I hope what I feel is right. Otherwise, your father and grandfather would be disappointed.”

“Mommy, it’s just dinner. Don’t expect too much.”

“This is not just a casual dinner, Yelena. He could always have dinner somewhere and not here. Ikaw, ha, kung anoman ang sinabi mo kay Zacariel, malalaman ko rin ’yan.”

She almost rolled her eyes. Kung hindi lang siya mapapagalitan pa lalo, ginawa niya na.

“Did you tell him that we already found a man for you to marry?”

“Yes. He knows about that.”

“So, why he’s here?”

“Ask him later, mom. Can we go and eat?”

Her mother sighed. She looked stressed. Kahit wala naman dapat problemahin. Tiyak na natutuwa ito kapag sinabi na ni Zacariel ang totoong pakay. Kaya lang nang makabalik sila sa sala, wala na roon ang tatlong lalaki.

“Where are they?” she muttered as she looked around the mansion.

“Madame, nasa library room po sila Senyor Federigo kasama si Senyorito Zacariel.”

Nagkatinginan silang mag ina. She knows by now that her mother already have a hint what’s really going on.

“Nagbilin po na hintayin sila sa hapag. Handa na po ang mga pagkain.”

Napatingin siya sa pangalawang palapag kung nasaan ang library room. She really admired Zacariel’s confidence and gut to talk with her father and grandfather, alone. It shows that he knows what he’s doing and he’s genuine with his intentions.

Nasa hapag kainan na sila ngunit hindi pa rin mapakali ang mommy niya.

“Ano ang pinag-uusapan nila? I don’t think your father would tell me the full details.”

“Maybe about business, horses or other stuffs that involved their interests.”

“Stop acting that you don’t know his reasons why he’s here, Yelena. It’s either he realized that he likes to marry you or you did something else to make him come here.”

Yelena sipped on her juice.

“Mom, I suggest you to calm down-”

“Shut up, dear. I can’t calm down. We already made a deal with your soon-to-be-husband and it will get ruined once you marry someone else.”

Yelena shifted on her chair. Suddenly, her heart pounded.

“You made a deal without me? Wala po ba talaga akong karapatan na makialam kahit sa ganyang bagay lang, mommy?”

“It was your grandfather who made the deal. At kung tama nga na gusto ka ng pakasalan ni Zacariel, only your grandfather can cut the deal with them if he wants to. Zacariel is just lucky because your father and lolo are fond of him.”

If it was not really a big deal, her grandfather can easily negotiate and cut the deal. But if it was big thing, it would be hard for her family to change their mind. At paano nga kung gano’n? Paano na sila ni Zacariel?

Ano ang gagawin nila kung sakaling hindi na magawan ng paraan ang napagkasunduan ng dalawang pamilya? Would Zacariel allow her to marry someone else? Or would they rather escape from her supposed marriage and break their family tradition?

“The only thing that comforted me is Guerreras are powerful enough that they could pull some strings to get what they want. Zacariel could help your grandfather to negotiate the deal for you to escape from your supposed groom, Yelena. You better pray for a good news once they are out from library room.”

Her heart is booming against her chest. She sipped on her juice again and did what her mother told her–pray for a good news.

17 ~ PRIORITY (SPG)

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

IT irked her to know that her family already made a deal with her groom-to-be without her knowledge. Even on that part, she has no rights to know all her family’s decisions. Magugulat na lang siya na may napili ng lalaki ang mga ito na ipapakasal sa kanya. Then the next thing she discovered, they sealed a deal already.

Indeed that she has no control with her own life. She was raised to follow whatever her parents and grandfather told her to do without complaining about it. At kahit sa lalaki na makakasama habang buhay, ang mga ito pa rin ang pipili para sa kanya at ang masusunod.

The fact that she doesn’t have control with her life gave chills to her body. It’s scary to know that your life is being dominated by other people.

Paano nalang kung hindi niya nagustuhan si Zacariel at hindi rin siya nito gusto? Totoo kayang hahantong siya sa isang lalaki na ipinagkasundo sa kanya? Hindi ba siya gagawa ng paraan man lang para iwasan ang itinakda sa kanya ng sariling pamilya? O hahayaan niya ang sarili na sundin ang tradisyon nila kahit pa labas iyon sa loob niya?

There are so many things that clouded her head and as she realizes the things that’s happening to her, she started to feel the anger that builds inside her chest because of her family’s decisions and plans for her.

Dapat ay matagal niya nang tinanggap ang tradisyon nila dahil doon siya namulat. Ang hindi niya akalain ay ang magkagusto sa ibang lalaki at ayawan ang pagpapakasal sa kung sino ang napili para sa kanya.

Despite of the heartbreak that Zacariel Guerrera gave her, she’s still wants him. She already forgave him because she believes with second chance. Aside from that, his reasons to refused to be involved with her family’s tradition last year was valid. He is a man with dignity, he stood with his words and with his own rules.

Even though he knew that his decision would hurt her and would break them apart before, he’s still stood with his words. And this time, he’s making everything right as possible. He will ask for her hand with his own will and not because somebody told him to do it.

Alam niya rin sa sarili na kung sakaling hilingin niya kay Zacariel na pakasalan siya, hindi nito iyon gagawin kung hindi naman talaga nito ’yon gusto. She can’t just force him to do things that he didn’t want to do. Especially as important as marriage.

The reason why she was gratified and relieved when he decided to meet her family personally to tell his plans for both of them. It was such a breath of relief for her.

Umahon ng bahagya mula sa pagkaka-upo si Yelena nang matanaw ang tatlong lalaki na naglalakad patungo sa hapag kainan.

By the look of Zacariel, it seemed like he just got out from a business meeting with very important investors. Though he was always looked like in business-mode face, her curiosity to know what they had talked about inside the library is really kicking in. Kung hindi lang sana mahalaga ang hapunan na ’yon, tiyak na hinila niya na ang kasintahan palayo sa pamilya niya para lang malaman ang naging resulta ng pag-uusap ng mga ito.

Zacariel casually took the chair next to her. Sa kabisera naupo ang kanyang lolo. Ang magulang niya naman ay magkatabi at kaharap nila.

Yelena was so eager to open a conversation but she stopped herself because she doesn’t want her family to notice that she knew Zacariel’s plans. She forgot that she should act like everything is normal!

Their housemaids served the drinks and foods. Dalawa sa mga ito ay nakatayo sa bandang gilid upang madali silang daluhan kung may kailangan.

“Anyway,” her grandfather put down his utensils and looked at them after a long while of silence.

Yelena shifted on her seat. While Zacariel grabbed his wine glass and took a sip on it.

“Yelena, I want you to know that your supposed wedding this year will be moved.”

Her mouth opened a bit. Does it mean that they already agreed with Zacariel’s proposal?

She tried hard not to look with the man beside her because she needs to focus with her grandfather. Knowing the old man, he’s very good in reading people. Kaunting sulyap niya lang sa lalaki sa tabi niya, mahahalata agad ng lolo niya ’yon.

“I’m g-glad to know that, lo. May I know the reason why?”

Her mother gave her a sharp glance. Para bang sinasabi nito sa kanya na hindi na kailangan magtanong pa. But it’s her rights. Aside from that, she needs to be curious about the decisions because it would be weird if she didn’t ask for the reason?

Sumulyap ang lolo niya kay Zacariel. Kaya naman gano’n din ang ginawa niya sa nagtatanong na mga mata.

“I’ll tell you later.” He muttered formally.

Sinupil niya ang ngiti sa labi. She grabbed her glass and drink the rest of the wine until it’s empty.

Her heart is booming inside her chest. Animo masayang nagdidiwang ang bawat pintig. It felt like she won a lottery jackpot but she needs to stay calm because she doesn’t want people to know that.

Kahit ang mommy niya ay hindi na nagsalita pa pero alam niyang tatanungin nito ang daddy niya tungkol sa napag-usapan sa library room.

They stayed another hour for a chit-chats and some light drinks before they decided to go back to Hacienda Guerrera.

“I have contacts with Doña Zarita. I’d like to visit in hacienda soon. It’s been a long while.” Her mother said to Zacariel.

“Mamá would like that, Tita.”

“Inaasahan ko na babalik ka rito, hijo,” ang lolo niya na halatang panig talaga kay Zacariel.

“Makakaasa ka, Senyor.” Then they shook hands firmly.

Nasa loob na sila ng sasakyan nang kumaway siya sa magulang. Hinatid sila ng mga ng tingin hanggang sa makalabas sila sa drive way. That’s when she started asking questions.

“Did they accept your proposal? What did lolo told you? How about my dad? Were they curious? What did you tell them? How did you–uh!” she grunted when Zacariel laughed shortly.

Humalukipkip siya kaya hindi ito nagtagumpay na hawakan ang kamay niya.

“Pumayag sila na tayo ang magpapakasal.”

Hearing that words made her heart happy because she finally able to escaped from marrying the guy that she didn’t even know. Pakiramdam niya ay gumaan ang buhay niya dahil wala ng mabigat na nakapatong sa balikat niya. Ang kalayaan na mabuhay sa paraan na gusto niya ay nakuha niya na at walang katumbas ang saya na hatid niyon.

“Nagkaroon lang ng ilang kasunduan. But it doesn’t really matter now. I can handle that.”

She couldn’t really speak because she’s so overwhelmed and emotional. The sides of her eyes watered shamelessly. The feeling of being free is very important to her.

“Thank you,” she emotionally said and embraced him.

He slowed down and eventually found a space at the side of the road to stop the SUV.

Her tears rolled down her cheeks. Even though she’s crying, she’s really happy deep inside.

“I am not sure if you’re ready to a m-marriage life or you’re just doing this because y-you pity me. But I am so happy right now, Zacariel. I don’t r-really know what else to do to thank you. T-this is very important to me. You just lifted the burden that jailed me to be free.”

A gentle kiss at the top of her head and a warm caress on her back from him soothed her.

“I’m doing this simply because I wanna be with you. It doesn’t matter if I am ready or not, because with you, I could conquer everything.”

Nagpatuloy pa ang madamdaming na agos ng kanyang luha habang kalmado naman ang bawat tibok ng puso.

“Sabihin mo lang sa akin ang mga dapat kong gawin para maging mabuting asawa sayo. I’d do everything for you.”

“No. I’ll do everything in a heartbeat for you and for your happiness, baby.” He planted another kiss on her temple this time.

Her lips formed a smile despite of the tears on her cheeks. Malambing na yinakap niya pa lalo ang kasintahan.

“We’ll have our formal engagement party once I settled everything that needs to be settled.”

She nods her head. Because of crying, her eyelids gets heavier.

“But we are not going to get married this year, right?”

“Yes.”

“How ’bout next year?”

“Are you that excited to marry me?” he playfully said.

Sumimangot siya. She’s not really excited though. Siguro ay talagang masaya lang siya na gusto niyang malaman ang lahat tungkol sa kasal nila kahit pa masyado pang maaga para pag-usapan ’yon.

“Oh, I forgot. Ate Zakia could be the next to get married? Maybe next year? Kaya hindi muna tayo? How ’bout Ataliana and Kuya Zarick kaya?”

“I’d like Zakia to get married first. Then if Kuya Zarick and Ataliana decided to get married, we would know. Then we will decide for us.”

“I’m not really in a hurry,” she muttered so that he won’t feel pressure. “Besides, I’ll take fashion design course. Tatapusin ko pa ’yon at susubukan na magtayo ng sariling boutique.”

And where the hell she would get funds to build her own boutique by the way?

Nakagat niya ang loob ng pisngi nang maisip na si Zacariel ang pumasok sa isip niya agad. He’s that very supportive that he could build a boutique for her. And by that time, they already married. Kaya, ayos lang siguro ’yon? Tutal naman, mag asawa na sila.

“That’s what you like?”

“Yes.”

Natahimik ito pansamantala kaya tuloy napaisip siya kung may nasabi ba siyang mali o ano.

“Di ba, we already talked about this?” umahon siya upang maayos silang magkaharap.

“Yeah.”

“I’m going to pursue fashion design. Uh, while we are married.”

He stared at her, then gave him a small smile.

“Then, if it’s possible, I could have my own fashion boutique.”

“I could help you build your own boutique.”

Her eyes twinkled despite of the dimmed lights inside the car. At nang makita nito ang kislap ng kasiyahan sa mga mata niya, nanatili lalo ang titig nito sa kanya na para bang matutunaw siya ilan pang sandali.

“And if I’m already earning, I will pay you back.”

He chuckled, the slightly pinched her chin.

“No need to pay me back. By that time, we are already married.”

Napalunok siya. Tuluyang natanto na gano’n nga ang magiging set up nila ni Zacariel ilan pang taon. Sana lang ay huwag muna itong humiling ng anak dahil baka hindi niya pa magawang ibigay. She’s hoping that he would understand that she wants to reach her dreams first before having a baby.

Nang maisip na baka dumating ang araw na gusto na ni Zacariel magkaroon sila ng anak at hindi pa siya handa, bigla siyang kinabahan. Imbes na wala sanang bumabagabag sa kanya, nagkaro’n tuloy bigla dahil sa sariling palaisipan na nabuo sa utak niya.

“Hmm, hindi ka pa naman siguro hihingi ng anak?” medyo alangan na tanong niya.

His jaw clenched and it seemed like he was thinking deeply. If he was going to answer that question or he would rather not.

“I won’t ask for a baby if you’re not ready.”

Hindi niya alam kung nakahinga ba siya ng maluwag o pag-iisipan pa ng maigi ang naging sagot ni Zacariel. Dapat ay mapanatag siya na hindi ito hihiling ng anak kung hindi siya handa. But it felt like she wasn’t convinced with his answer.

“My priority is for you to pursue your dreams and I’ll be here to support you.”

She was hypocrite if she would tell that she won’t fall for that kind of treatment from him. Only a stupid woman won’t fall in love to a man who would prioritize you and support your dreams.

If he would continue treating her like a very special girl, it would be hard for her to stop herself from liking him and falling for him.

“You’re very young. I’ll give you your freedom to live your life the way you wanted it to be, but I’d like to be part of it.”

“You’re already part of my life.” She said softly.

“I want you with me while you’re living your life, Yelena.”

“I’ll be with you while I’m living my life. I’d like to have you in every decision that I make. Because I want you the way you want me in your life.”

Nagkatitigan sila at sa lakas ng tibok ng puso niya, gusto niyang pakawalan ang mga emosyon upang mabawasan ang mga ’yon.

She was the first to cupped his jaw with her soft palms and initiated a passionate kiss. It was supposed to be a short one, but when he angled his head for a better access to her mouth, the kissed deepened and it became hot inside the car.

Tila siya natutupok sa maalab na halik na pinagsasaluhan nilang dalawa. Ang mga dila nila ay agresibo at nanabik habang naglalabanan na para bang walang gustong tumigil.

The car was filled with her soft moans and heavy breathing. While torridly kissing each other, his callous palm skillfully found the gem on her inner thighs. He was really fast that she couldn’t focus with the kiss.

He’s rubbing her femininity against the soft fabric of her underwear. To give him more access to it, she parted her legs a bit.

“Mmm…” she whimpered between the kiss when he slid his fingers under her panties.

Nahinto siya pansamantala sa pag galaw ng dila dahil kakaibang ligaya ang naramdaman niya nang sinalat nito ang pagkababae niya. He’s gently massaging the outer lips of her flesh until they both felt her wetness. Ikinalat nito ang katas niya at ipinagpatuloy ang paghimod ng mahabang darili sa hiwa.

“Aahh… mmm…” she couldn’t focus with the kiss anymore.

Mas gusto niya nalang umungol at damhin ang nakakaliyong sarap sa pagitan ng kanyang mga hita. The way he rubs her womanhood with his middle finger gave her a goosebumps and it made her monads loud.

His lips travelled down to her jaw and neck after a while because she can’t kiss him back anymore. She’s already drowned with the sensation on her inner thighs that her body demanded for a release.

Bumaba pa ang halik ng kasintahan sa dibdib niya hanggang sa siya na mismo ang nagbaba ng dress niya upang mabigyan nito ng atensyon ang dibdib niya. She even unhooked her brassier for him.

The moment he sucked the skin near her nipple was the same moment he inserted a digit inside of her.

“Ohh!”

She’s literally sitting on his finger and grinding her hips to feel it more. He’s slowly moving it out, then put it back that made her whimpered.

“Aahh, Zacariel…” she called his name in a begging way when he started to play with her cl*t using his thumb while his middle finger was moving inside.

Napapaangat ang balakang niya at umaawang ang labi dahil sa matinding pagnanasa at kasabikan. Hindi niya na alam kung saan siya lubos na nasasarapan. Kung sa paraan ba nang pagsipsip nito sa ut*ng niya o sa paglalaro ng mga daliri nito sa pagkababae niya.

When he put a pressure on his thumb against her sensitive bud, her body shook a bit. Tumaas ang mga balahibo niya sa katawan nang ulitin nito ang medyo may diin na pagmamasahe ng hinlalaki sa parteng iyon ng pagkababae niya, dahilan kung bakit halos bumakat ang mga kuko sa matigas na braso ng binata.

A scandalous moan echoed when she suddenly felt a strong spasm below her abdomen and it suddenly exploded. She felt him bite her nipple slightly as he let her have her time to enjoy her release.

“I was about to lick you,” he whispered on her sweaty neck.

“Your fingers were enough tonight,” she rested her head on the headrest of the seat. “I don’t think I can handle your tongue right now.”

“How about before you go to sleep?” he teased while fixing her brassiere, then pulling up her dress.

Umikot ang mga mata niya habang nakapikit. He’s really active in bed. She may be aggressive some times, but she can’t level his power and libido when it comes to sex. Isa o dalawang round lang ang kaya niya sa totoo lang. But Zacariel, it seemed like he’s capable in doing more than three rounds in a row. She would only know once they get married and started to live together in one roof.

“Let’s go back to hacienda and see if I can do another round,” then she winked at him, making him smirked.

He moved the steering wheel smoothly and continued driving like nothing happened.

18 ~ FEELINGS

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

EVEN though her family already agreed to Zacariel Guerrera’s proposal about marrying her, Yelena couldn’t just be with him especially that he needs to go back to Manila to work. He have his own life there. Their company and GCP employees are waiting for him. He can’t really stay longer in Hacienda Guerrera.

Inaasahan niya na ang magiging set up nila ni ng kasintahan pero habang tumatagal ay tila ba nahihirapan siyang mag adjust. Sanay naman siya noon na malayo rito o hindi ito nakikita. But this time, it’s very different. Kung kailan nasanay siyang magkasama sila, doon pa talaga sila kailangang lumayo sa isa’t-isa. Kahit pa pansamantala lang ’yon, mahirap pa rin para sa kanya.

Yelena is back in Casa Alta. Nasa kandungan niya si Meadow habang naghihintay sa meryenda na inihahanda ng mga kasambahay. Bibisitahin siya ni Santi at marami silang pag-uusapan. Nasa daan na ang kaibigan at ilan pang minuto ay darating na ito.

“Do you wanna go with me in Manila? I’m gonna stay with Zacariel,” she talks with her cat.

That’s only part of their plans. When she was in Manila, she will stay with Zacariel. Hindi niya alam kung ipinagpaalam ba ’yon ng binata sa pamilya niya o hindi. Gusto niyang makasiguro na magiging maayos ang pagsasama nila at hindi sila papakialaman ng sinomang miyembro ng pamilya niya. She’s still needs to talk with her parents about the things that they talked about with Zacariel last time he visited Casa Alta.

“You were sleeping when he went here. Kaya hindi kita naipakilala sa kanya.”

Meadow’s just meowed.

It made her smile to know that she could bring Meadow in Manila. Hindi naman siguro tututol si Zacariel?

Kinarga niya ang pusa nang marinig ang tunog ng sasakyan sa labas. Naglakad siya sa malawak na pinto at nakita na kabababa lang ni Santi sa itim na van na naghatid dito.

“Santi!” she walked towards him to welcome him.

Her friend didn’t wait for her. Sinalubong din siya nito at nagyakapan sila kahit pa buhat buhat niya si Meadow.

“It’s good to see you again, Yelena! And also, hello, Meadow!” he petted her cat.

“Mabuti nalang at pinayagan kang umalis. Maulan pa naman.”

“Of course. Hindi naman ako umaalis sa amin. Ngayon lang dahil hindi ka na abala.”

Sa living room ay inihahain na ang kanilang meryenda. Santi requested a banana chips and some snacks that they only see on a street.

“The street foods in Manila is really good. Kung hindi lang nasira ang tiyan ko, uulit-ulitin ko kumain ng mga ’yon.”

They tried that kind of foods in Manila before. Okay lang naman sa kanya at hindi nasira ang tiyan niya. Maselan lang talaga siguro si Santi kaya gano’n ang nangyari rito.

“This one is clean and safe to eat. So, let’s enjoy this.”

Habang nilalantakan nila ang mga pagkain sa lamesa, nagkukwentuhan din sila ng mga bagay bagay na nangyari sa kanilang buhay noong hindi sila magkasama o nagkikita.

“I think, my father wants me to enter politics. Ayoko talaga…” anito. “I couldn’t stand greeting all the people who greets me. Or to smile to them even if I don’t know them. Mahirap magpaka-plastik.”

Yelena sips on her gulaman juice. Pati ang klase ng inumin ay pinagaya nila.

“What if Tito asked you to enter politics? What would you tell him?”

“I’ll be honest with him. Ayoko. Politics is not my forte.”

She admired Santi’s bravery. Dito nga niya rin natutunan maging matapang kahit papano. Pero iba pa rin talaga ang takbo ng buhay niya kumpara rito.

“Ikaw naman. Kwentuhan mo ko sa nangyaring pag-uusap noong bumisita dito si Kuya Zacariel.”

Meadow is sleeping beside her already.

“Magpapakasal kami-” she was cut off when Santi get closer.

“Weh?”

Umikot ang mga mata niya. “Totoo. He talked to my father and lolo. Sa library. Silang tatlo lang.”

“Gano’n siya katapang? I mean, gano’n siya ka-seryoso sayo?”

“Tingin mo?”

Nalaglag ang balikat nito at madramang bumuntong hininga. “Dapat ay hindi ko siya hinusgahan agad. My judgement about him is wrong.”

“I understand you. I judged him too. He wasn’t clear with his intentions before. Kaya normal lang sa atin na husgahan siya.”

“Ang mahalaga ngayon ay tunay pala ang nararamdaman niya sayo. Talagang magpapakasal na kayo? Pero paano ’yong…”

Yelena sighed. “My family already made a deal with him—the man who they chose for me. But I think, they need to do some things to cut the deal. Zacariel will help.”

“At hindi mo pa rin kilala kung sino sana ’yong lalaking papakasalan mo?”

“Hindi. Do I need to know him pa ba? Hindi na naman kami magpapakasal.”

“Aren’t you curious?”

Umiling siya. She never felt curious with that mysterious guy because she didn’t like the idea of marrying him in the first place.

“Honestly, I’m curious, Yelena. Kilala natin ang mga mayayamang pamilya dito sa lugar natin. Ang mga Guerrera lang ang hindi mahilig makisali sa arranged-marriage. Pero ’yong iba? Handa sa gano’n. Lalo at ikaw ang papakasalan.”

“Should I ask my mom who’s the guy?”

“It’s up to you. If you like to know him, then ask Tita Yuna. Kung ayaw mo talaga, then don’t bother.”

Humaba pa ang usapan nila ni Santi. Pero talagang bumabalik sila sa pagpapakasal nila ni Zacariel at kung ano ang mga plano nila.

“I will study fashion design… he will support me. Para sa akin, ’yon ang pinaka importante. Kaya masaya ako na susuportahan niya ako sa pangarap ko.”

Santi gave him a gentle smile and held her hands.

“Noong nakita kita kanina, alam kong masaya ka talaga. Your aura is very lively and you’re glowing. To see you this genuinely happy makes me happy too, Yelena. You deserved all the good things that’s happening in your life right now.”

Her heart melted. She embraced her only friend.

“Thank you, Santi. For everything. You’re not only my best-friend. You’re a brother to me, too.”

Santi will stay for a night. After they ate dinner, Yelena took that chance to talk with her mother. Habang katawagan ni Santi ang ina nito sa labas ng mansyon nila. Inaya naman siya ng mommy niya sa silid niya.

“Your father didn’t tell me the full details of their conversation, dear. Hindi ba sayo sinabi ni Zacariel?”

“Not a full details.”

Umangat ang isang kilay nito. “What? Didn’t you know that he asked for your hands?”

It was too late for her to pretend that she didn’t know about that. Kaswal lang ang naging reaksyon niya at hindi na nagulat pa.

“See? You knew his intentions from the start. You were acting lang na hindi.”

She smiled cutely. Magsasalita na sana siya pero binigyan siya nang nagdududang tingin ng ina.

“What did you do, huh? Paano mo napapayag si Zacariel na pakasalan ka?”

“Because he likes me?”

“Tss. Even though he likes you, it wasn’t enough reason for him to be involved with our family tradition, Yelena. Zacariel is successful and financially stable already. And for sure, he have a lot of women around him. Ano ang ginawa mo at napapayag mo siyang pakasalan ka?”

Maarte siyang naupo sa gilid ng kama niya habang ang mommy niya ay nakatayo at nakahalukipkip naman sa harap niya.

“Kahit na maraming babae ang nakapaligid sa kanya. Ako pa rin ang papakasalan niya. Don’t worry mommy, I’ll ask him why he chose to marry me.”

“Hindi ka naman siguro nagmaakawa sa kanya?”

“Why would I do that?” she almost rolled her eyes.

“I don’t know, Yelena. Hindi lang ako makapaniwala agad na magpapakasal siya. Unless, he’s in love with you?”

“Maybe?” her smile grew wider.

Zacariel Guerrera is in love with her? That’s seemed unbelievable but it could also be true.

“Guerreras men don’t marry for business. They marry for love. So, I think, Zacariel is in love with you?”

Pati ang mommy niya ay naguguluhan at kyoryoso sa dahilan ni Zacariel kung bakit siya papakasalan.

“You can say that, mom.”

“Huh, you’re really that confident?”

“Mommy, look at me,” tumingin naman ito sa kanya habang naka angat ang isang kilay. “I’m beautiful and that’s given. Our family is fine. Mayaman at ma-impluwensya. Hindi ba ’yon sapat na rason para pakasalan niya ako? Kailangan ba talaga malaman natin ang dahilan niya?”

“I already told you. They don’t marry for business. So, I’m stick with the thought that he’s in love with you. Unless, you did something intriguing or you blackmailed him just to marry you.”

Hindi niya mapigilan ang tumawa sa nakakatawang paratang ng sariling ina. Halatang hindi talaga nito agad mapaniwalaan na magpapakasal nga ang isang Guerrera sa kanya.

“Just be happy mom, because he’s going to be your son-in-law.”

“I like Zacariel for you. Kung papakasalan ka pala niya, bakit hindi na siya pumayag noong nakaraang taon? Kaya ayan tuloy, medyo komplikado ang naging resulta ng pag atras ng lolo at daddy mo sa deal sa mga Fonseca.”

Yelena’s eyes widened a bit. “Fonseca? Is it Khalid, mommy?”

“Yes, anak. He was looking forward to meet you again. But this happened.”

Nagbaba siya ng tingin. She knows Khalid since they were a kid. Like her childhood sweetheart. Kaya lang, nag aral ito sa ibang bansa kaya nawalan na rin sila ng komunikasyon. He’s two or three years older than her and he was good boy.

“Nandito na po siya?”

“Noong nakaraang buwan pa. Pabalik-balik dito sa Pilipinas noong nakaraan taon dahil siya na ang mamamahala ng kumpanya nila. Now, Khalid is really staying. Hindi lang makakuha ng tamang oras para puntahan ka dahil madalas ay wala ka rito.”

“I wanna meet him.”

“I don’t think it’s a good idea right now. His father wasn’t happy with your grandfather’s decision.”

“Even if it’s just a casual meet up? Because we used to be friends.”

“Yelena, I still need to know if your father would allow that. The situation is complicated.”

She doesn’t have idea how complicated the situation was. She’s surprised to know that Khalid Fonseca was the man her family chose for her to marry. The urge to meet her childhood friend is hard to ignore.

“Fonsecas are really doing great with their construction company. They have new project in Bataan. AltaMonte’s was supposed to produce limestones and marbles because that’s part of the deals. Now, your grandfather needs to cancel that big project.”

“Because of Zacariel wants to marry me?”

“Exactly. There are other upcoming projects that will be cancelled. Malalaking proyekto iyon at makakatulong sa negosyo ng pamilya natin. But what can we do, right? I like Khalid for you, too. But Zacariel probably made an excellent offer for your father and grandfather to agree with him.”

So, it seemed like a battle of who two men who offers everything just to marry her. It made her wonder now, what Zacariel Guerrera told her father and grandfather for them to cancel Khalid Fonseca.

“Should I ask Zacariel what did he offer?”

“I’m quite intrigued, dear. But I won’t bother myself now. I’m happy to know that he’s gonna be my son-in-law.”

“Who wouldn’t? He’s a Guerrera.”

“He’s not just a Guerrera. His mother is the only heiress of Quinteroz’s wealth. They are just very private when it comes to the real status of their wealth.”

“I don’t really mind how many money he or his family got. I’d still like him even though he’s not very rich.”

They are wealthy too, but she’s aware that it’s from her family’s hard works. Alam niyang hindi madali ang maging mayaman at ang kumita ng pera. Hindi rin naman siya sinanay na mag waldas ng salapi sa walang kwentang bagay. They don’t spoil her that much.

Yelena spent the rest of the night with Santi. Napag-usapan nila ang tungkol kay Khalid at maging ang kaibigan ay na-sorpresa.

“Talaga? Eh, di, sana, magiging Mrs. Khalid Fonseca ka!” he even emphasized the last name. “Yelena Altamonte Fonseca.”

She winced when she heard that.

“How ’bout Yelena Altamonte Guerrera?” Santi put his hand under his chin. “Mas bagay.”

Ngumiti siya nang matanto na bagay ngang idugtong sa pangalan niya ang apelyido ni Zacariel.

“Pero, gwapo rin ’yon si Khalid. Wait, let’s stalk his social media!” Mabilis na kinalikot ni Santi ang smartphone nito. “Oh, is this him na? He looks hot! Look!”

He showed her the screen. When she looked at the picture of the man, she couldn’t even recognize the Khalid that she used to know. He looked different and she admit that he’s handsome and matured.

“Hindi ka na rin lugi kung si Khalid nga ang mapapang-asawa mo, Yelena. Ang gwapo niya na!”

“Mas gwapo si Zacariel.”

“Magkaiba sila ng kagwapuhan. Suplado kasi si Kuya Zacariel at mukhang istrikto. Si Khalid naman, mas mukhang approachable.”

“I will still marrying Zacariel Guerrera.”

“Alam ko naman ’yon. Dati mo pa ’yon gusto e. Isa pa, seryoso naman pala siya sayo. Kaya, boto na ako ulit sa kanya. Kakampi niya na ako at hindi ko hahayaan na may magkagusto sayong ibang lalaki o pormahan ka man lang. Isusumbong ko talaga.”

She’s relieved that Santi is now on Zacariel’s side again. At least, she knows that her best-friend likes her soon-to-be-husband for her.

Yelena is already laying on her bed when Zacariel video call. Pareho sila na nasa kama na rin at handa ng matulog.

“Do you know Khalid Fonsca?” there conversation went there.

He nods his head. “Why?”

“Siya pala ang napili nila lolo na papakasalan ko.”

“Do you like him?” kritikal na tanong nito.

Kumunot ang noo niya. He suddenly looked very serious that it makes her laugh. Kung hindi niya lang pinigil ang sarili, matatawa na talaga siya sa itsura ng kasintahan.

“I used to know him. He was my childhood sweetheart.”

“Do you like to marry him?”

Tuluyan na siyang natawa. At habang humahalakhak, nagsasalubong ang makakapal na kilay ni Zacariel.

“You’re the one I want to marry, Zacariel.”

“Then let’s not talk about him.”

She pursed her lips. She can’t say if he’s angry or what. He doesn’t smile though.

“I just want to tell you that I’d like to meet him.”

Kung kanina ay mukha itong iritado, ngayon ay halatang dismayado ngunit kinukontrol din ang sarili.

“For what?”

“Because he used to be my friend before.”

“And that was a long time ago.”

“Kahit na. Pero kung hindi mo ko papayagan, I won’t meet him.”

She needs to be honest with him. She also want to know his opinion about her meeting Khalid.

“If you really want to meet him, meet him with Santi.”

“Payag ka?”

He sighed. He looked torn, but he needs to answer her.

“But first, ask permission with your father or grandfather. If they allow you to meet him, tell me.”

“Kailangan ba talaga ’yon? Can’t I meet Khalid without telling my family about it?”

“Baby, your family just cancelled the deals with Fonseca. Let’s wait until the situation cools down.”

Sumimangot siya at tumango naman dahil naintindihan na hindi iyon ang tamang oras para makipagkita kay Khalid.

“If you’re bored, come here in Manila. Ipapaalam kita sa mommy mo.”

Napaahon siya sa biglang saya. Nabuhayan talaga siya sa sinabi ni Zacariel.

“I wanna go there as soon as possible. Can you call mom tomorrow na?”

He chuckled. “I will.”

She shrieked in bliss. “I’ll see you soon then?”

“Uh-huh.”

Yelena giggled. She couldn’t hide her happiness. She’s probably gonna sleep with smile on her lips.

“I miss my baby,” he whispered longingly, that made her heart raced.

“I miss you too,” she whispered back while her cheeks were heating up.

The silence between them and the way they stares at each other, made her realized how genuine their feelings are for each other. She doesn’t need to hide it. She is confident to tell him what she feels for him. She’s hoping that in time, they would learn to be more vocal with what their hearts desires and feels. She would always like to know his feelings for her.

19 ~ ALLERGIC

CHAPTER NINETEEN

HER parents were always strict when it comes to her travel trips and activities outside Casa Alta. Isa rin iyon sa dahilan kung bakit wala siyang masyadong kaibigan. Ang isang tanging nagtagal ay si Santi lang. It was because he’s a family friend and they almost have a same status in life.

Hindi naman sa mapangmata ang pamilya niya, pero palaging mas pinipili ng mga ito ang makipagkaibigan o makipagmabutihan sa mga taong may binatbat sa lipunan. Ang pamilya niya ay hindi rin talaga nakikisalamuha sa kanilang mga trabahador o sa mga taong hindi kagaya ng kanilang estado sa pamumuhay.

Hindi katulad ng mga Guerrera na nakilala talaga na pantay ang pagtrato sa mga tao. Mapa-mayaman o mahirap man ay wala ang mga itong sinisino. Especially towards their workers or helpers. They treat them rightfully and with respect. It was also one of the many reasons why she admired Guerrera family.

It wasn’t hard for people to adored Guerreras. Her family are one of those people who likes Guerreras so much. Kaya kahit na mahigpit sa kanya ang magulang niya, isang tawag lang si Zacariel sa mommy niya, pumayag agad ito na magpunta siya sa Maynila.

“He respects us. He even called your father, Yelena, para lang magpaalam.” She can say how proud was her mother while saying those words to her.

“Pumayag po ba si dad?”

“Of course. He’s very fond with Zacariel. Kaya lang anak, ang gusto ng daddy mo ay hindi ka sa kanya tutuloy.”

Understandable. Even though she wants to stay with Zacariel’s penthouse, they need to respect what her parents wants for now. Besides, they are not married yet. Hindi rin maganda tignan kung magsasama nga sila sa iisang bubong.

“Zacariel suggested to let you stay in one of their condo in Manila. He will provide a helper for you too.”

“I’m fine with that, mommy. Besides I’ll spend more time in his office.”

Her beautiful mother gave her a doubtful look.

“I hope you won’t disturb him while working.”

“I won’t, mom.”

“Yelena, I don’t know if you’re really aware about Zacariel’s role in GCP. He’s now the CEO of their company. He have more responsibilities on his shoulders. I’m glad to know though that he gave time for you, but I’m kinda worried about you.”

She’s aware that Zacariel is now the CEO of GCP when Zacarias needed to leave the company to focus on something else. His reasons for leaving wasn’t clear to her. People talked about that for awhile, pero humupa rin naman ang usap-usapan kalaunan.

“Why are you worried?”

“Because we all know he’s a busy man. He can’t really give you all his time and attention. Are you ready for that?”

“I already expected that, mommy. What matters to me now is he make ways for us to be together.”

“Hindi mo naman siguro siya pinilit na ipaalam ka niya sa amin?”

Yelena scoffed. Wala talagang tiwala sa kanya ang sariling ina? O sadyang kilala lang talaga siya nito at alam ang karakas niya?

“Yelena, you’re not yet married to him, ha. Baka naman kung anu-ano na ang hinihiling mo sa kanya?”

Ang tanging hiniling niya lang naman kay Zacariel ay payagan siya nitong mag aral ng kursong gusto niya. Pero hindi niya ’yon sasabihin sa kahit kanino. Except, of course, with Santi.

“Don’t worry, mom. I’m being a good girl. I won’t disturb Zacariel when he was working. I won’t ask or request something to him that he couldn’t give.”

Nang umalis ang ina sa silid niya, ipinagpatuloy niya ang pag-iimpake ng mga damit na dadalhin sa Maynila. Wala pa silang pag-uusap ng binata kung hanggang kailan siya mananatili roon. Pero para makasigurado, medyo dinagdagan niya ang mga damit na dadalhin.

When Yelena saw Meadow on the couch, she suddenly remembers that she wants Zacariel to meet her cat. Kaya naman agad niyang tinext ang kasintahan tungkol sa bagay na ’yon.

To: Zac I’m done packing my things. By the way, I want you to meet Meadow. Pwede ko ba siyang dalhin sa condo?

As expected, he didn’t reply right away. The last time he texted her was this morning. He told her that he has a few meetings today. Kaya hindi ito kaagad makakapag-reply sa kanya kung may text man siya.

Habang karga niya ang pusa, naglakad siya palabas sa mansyon nang makita ang pagdating ng Kuya Russo niya na sakay ng itim na kabayo nito.

“Kuya!” she called him to get his attention.

Sumulyap ito sa kanya bago bumaba sa kabayo. He patted the head of his horse, then gave the rope to Donelo. One of their field helpers.

“Saan ka galing?”

“Magpupunta ka sa Maynila?” balik tanong nito.

“Oo. Wala naman akong ginagawa dito.”

“Are you going to stay with Zacariel?”

Umiling siya. “I will stay in one of their condo in Manila. Then, I’ll visit him on his office.”

“Are you really marrying him?” He asked coldly.

“That’s what the decision.”

“Do you like to marry him?”

There’s no reason to lie with her brother. Isa ito sa kakampi niya kaya alam niyang makakahinga ito ng maluwag kung malalaman na gusto niya ang papakasalan niya.

“I like to marry him.”

He nods his head a bit. “That’s the only thing I want to know.”

“Pero hindi pa kami magpapakasal, Kuya. Baka papaunahin muna si ate Zakia.”

“There’s no hurry. Our family only want is a guarantee that you will get a man that they want from you.”

“Sana hindi ka rin nila pilitin na magpakasal sa hindi mo gusto, Kuya.”

“You know my stand for that, Yelena.”

Yes. He will never marry a woman that he didn’t like. Maybe, even for business purposes, he will still never tie a knot with a woman their family chose for him.

“Are you still with ate Freja?”

He paused for a moment. Before he continued to walk towards bourse stable. Nakasunod siya sa kapatid habang palinga-linga naman sa paligid si Meadow na nasa bisig niya.

“Yes.”

Gumuhit ang ngiti sa labi niya. There’s really something going on between her brother and that beautiful woman. She can now confirm.

“How is she?”

“She’s…” he trailed, then smirked. “She’s fine.”

“When can I see her again?”

“Why do you wanna see her?”

“Because I like her for you.”

Russo started to feed his horse.

“We will see you when we stay in Pampanga.”

“Are you going to bring her in Pampanga again? Matagal kayo do’n, Kuya?” manghang tanong niya.

“Yes. We will live there for a months. I have things to do there too.”

“What? Are you guys gonna live together na?”

“In Pampanga. Yes.”

Naisip niya bigla ang pamilya nila. Sana lang ay hindi humadlang! Pero imposible yata ’yon? Unless, her brother will hide Freja and their relationship?

“Kuya, aren’t you worried that lolo will discover your relationship with ate Freja?”

“I don’t really give a damn, Yelena.”

Ngumuso siya at napatango nalang. Oo nga pala, matibay ang paniningigan ng Kuya Russo niya. Hindi basta-basta mababali kahit pa ng pamilya nila.

The next day, Yelena left Casa Alta with Meadow. They both had a comfortable ride despite of the long travel.

Madilim na nang makarating sila sa BGC. The condominium building is familiar to her. Nawala ang pag-iisip niya tungkol doon nang salubungin siya ni Zacariel sa lobby.

Behind her is Donelo who’s carrying her two suit case. Then Meadow’s cute comfy bed.

He kissed her cheek then he paused after he noticed her cat on her arms.

“This is Meadow,” she happily introduced.

Zacariel pet her cat who meowed.

“I didn’t know it’s a cat.”

Because he didn’t him. She wanted to surprise him.

“Do you like cats?” she asked as they walk towards the elevator.

“Not really.”

She pouted her lips. “Ah, you only like horses.”

Napansin niya na parang nababahing si Zacariel pero hindi natutuloy. He will sigh, then he would punch the bridge of his nose. Does he have cold?

“Are you okay?”

“Yeah. I think so.”

Baka sa sobrang pagtatrabaho nito, nagkakasakit na!

Tumunog at bumukas ang elevator sa tamang palapag. Donelo left after he put her suit case inside. It is a one bedroom unit with one another room probably for helper.

Inilapag niya si Meadow sa sofa at lumapit kay Zacariel na halata na dumidistansya sa kanya. If he have cold, mahahawa siya. Kaya siguro hindi talaga lumalapit sa kanya.

He opened a door of her bedroom to show her. Sumunod siya rito. Hinawi nito ang kurtina kaya nakita niya ang magiging view niya. It’s just a garden view. Then on the left side is probably the swimming pool area of the building.

“Where’s my welcome kiss?” she asked him with a pout.

Right before he turn to face her, she embraced him from behind.

“Are you sick? That’s why you don’t want to kiss me?”

“No–oh, God,” then he sneezed.

She winced because he sneezed twice.

She released her hug and faced him. He’s covering his nose to stop another sneeze. Pero hindi napigilan at napabahing na naman at parang lumala pa ngayong nasa harap siya nito.

“Are you okay?”

“I… I don’t think so.”

“Uh, I think you’re sick.”

“No, I am just…” he sneezed again. “I’m allergic to…”

She step backwards for him to at least properly breath. Napansin niya na sa sobrang lapit niya, nababahing talaga ito. It seemed like she’s the one that makes him sneezed badly.

“Huh? Are allergic to what?”

Zacariel looked like having a runny noise now and it’s worrying. His sneezed wouldn’t stop!

“Cat fur.”

“Oh, gosh. Wait, h-hold on. I’m g-gonna call–” she didn’t finish her words and ran towards the door of the bedroom.

Naabutan niya na nakahilata si Meadow sa sofa na para bang sobrang napagod sa byahe nila. She got her phone and called Donelo to get Meadow.

“Hello? Saan ka po? Pwede po bang bumalik ka dito sa condo? Meadow can’t stay with me. Allergic po pala si Zacariel sa mga pusa.”

“Babalik na ako diyan, Senyorita.”

She ended the call and caressed Meadow.

“Even though I like you here, I think it’s better if you go back home, Meadow.”

The cat meowed then lay on her lap.

She can hear Zacariel still sneezing. Hanggat nandoon si Meadow, patuloy na babahing ang kasintahan at baka lumala pa iyon.

Inabot niya ulit ang iPhone niya at tinext ang mommy niya.

To: Mom Mom, Zacariel is allergic to cat. He kept on sneezing! I don’t know what to do.

Wala pang ilang minuto ay tumawag ang ina.

“Mommy? Ibabalik ko nalang si Meadow diyan.”

“Ask Zacariel if he can take antihistamine. If yes, buy him.”

Sumilip siya sa silid at hindi makita ang binata. Siguro ay nasa bathroom.

“Hey, do you want me to buy you antihistamine? My mom said you need that.”

“I have it in my penthouse. No worries, baby. I’ll be fine.” He said from the bathroom as he sneezes.

“Mom, he have antihistamine on his penthouse.”

“Now, bring Meadow in one of the room. Then you take a shower and change your clothes.”

Tumango-tango siya at kaagad na dinala ang pusa sa isang bakanteng silid kasama ang bed nito.

“You’ll stay here for awhile. I’ll bring you to my bedroom later. Kapag umalis na si Zacariel. Okay?”

Meadow is too tired to even meow. Payapa lang itong humiga at hindi na siya pinansin pa.

“I called Donelo to go back here to get Meadow. Ibabalik ko nalang siya sa amin.” She informed Zacariel from the living room.

Maya-maya lang ay lumabas ito sa silid niya. His nose is reddish already and his eyes!

“You don’t need to bring your cat back home. If you want Meadow to stay with you here, then let her stay.”

“Pero paano ka?”

“I’ll just take antihistamine whenever your cat is around.”

Umiling siya. Hindi naman pwedeng gano’n palagi ang gagawin nito. Seeing him sneezing badly and having a stuffed nose is not good. They need to avoid what makes him that way.

“Zacariel, I don’t want your health to be at risk. I’ll be fine without Meadow here.”

Siguro minsan ay malulungkot siya dahil wala siyang kasama sa condo unit na ’yon. Kung nandiyan si Meadow, okay sana. Pero, nag-aalala siya kay Zacariel. He can’t visit her when her cat is around. Baka pagkapasok palang nito sa pinto, bahing agad ang mangyari.

“Let’s see first if I don’t sneeze when Meadow is inside the other room while I’m here before we will make a decision to bring her back home.”

“Okay. Let’s see. For now, I’ll take a shower and change.”

Kahit iniwasan niya si Zacariel, nabahing pa rin ito. Pakiramdam niya, babalik talaga si Meadow sa Casa Alta. Ayaw niyang mag-alala kay Zacariel dahil hindi niya ma-e-enjoy ang bakasyon niyang ’yon.

Hindi na maganda ang lagay ng kasintahan kaya napilitan na itong bumalik sa penthouse. Donelo will be back again tomorrow to get Meadow.

Kaya rin pala pamilyar sa kanya ang gusali ay dahil naroon din ang penthouse ni Zacariel. After she settled Meadow on her own bed, she decided to go to the penthouse.

Medyo humupa na ang pagbahing nito dahil naka-inom na ng gamot. Kahit ang simpleng paghalik ay hindi niya ginawa. She’s worried she’s still have Meadow’s fur with her even though she already took a bath and changed her clothes.

“Do I need to go to grocery tomorrow for my foods?”

“No need. I have someone to do that for you. You just have to write down all you need then I’ll give it to Anita.”

“Is that your helper here?”

“Yes. She can cook for us.”

After an hour or so, she already felt tired but not sleepy. Zacariel seemed like he doesn’t have any plan that they will sleep together that night. Medyo disappointed siya pero ayaw niya rin namang maging agresibo.

“Uh, babalik na ako.” Paalam niya kalaunan.

He sighed, then he walked closer to her. He held her both arms.

“I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Dadaanan mo ako? Anong oras?”

“My driver can pick you up before lunch. You don’t really need to come with me early in the morning.”

“Okay. We will have lunch tomorrow and I won’t bring Meadow.”

“Anita can take care of your cat tomorrow.”

Ngumiti siya. Nasa isip niya palang kung sino ang magbabantay kay Meadow kapag wala siya, may solusyon na agad si Zacariel.

“I’m sorry for making you sneezed tonight. If only I knew you’re allergic to cat, hindi ko na sana siya dinala dito.”

“Well, you’re not aware about that. It’s not your fault.”

“Next time, I won’t bring her na.”

“I’m sorry that you cannot have your cat when I’m around.”

“Okay lang. I can have her when you’re not around.” She chuckled. “Anyways, I’ll let you rest na. Good night.”

She tiptoed to give him a kiss on the lips. Hindi niya na napigilan ang sarili at hinalikan na ito.

He kissed her back and caressed her arms.

“Ihahatid kita.”

Wala na siyang nagawa pa nang ihatid nga siya ni Zacariel sa unit niya. Halos nasa ibabang palapag lang naman ’yon ng penthouse nito.

“Wag ka nang pumasok,” natatawang sabi niya dahil baka mabahing na naman ito.

“Good night, baby,” he whispered and kissed her on the lips again, that made her heart raced just like that.

“Night…” then she sweetly kissed him more.

20 ~ OFFICE

CHAPTER TWENTY

ABALA ang lahat ng empleyado ng GCP nang makarating siya sa opisina. Zacariel’s assistant secretary which is Roda–guided her to his office. Wala roon ang binata dahil nasa meeting pa ito pero dahil inabisuhan na ang sekretarya sa pagdating niya sa araw na ’yon, kaya alam na ang gagawin.

“Do you want something to drink or eat, Ma’am?”

“An orange juice will do.”

Zacariel’s office is wide and bright because of the glass wall. Kumpleto rin halos ang kagamitan doon. There’s a mini bar and coffee maker area near the table where they used to it. Nagpunta roon si Roda para kuhanan siya ng maiinom.

She never get the chance to have a casual communication with any of Zacariel’s Secretary. He have Martin and Roda. Hindi siya sigurado kung ang mga ito rin ba ang sekretarya ni Zacarias noon. She doesn’t have any ideas how their business in Manila works.

“Matagal ka na bang nagtatrabaho rito?” tanong niya kay Roda nang mailapag nito ang baso ng orange juice sa lamesa sa harap niya.

Yelena is sitting on a leather sofa. On her left side is the glass wall and a few meters away is Zacariel’s table and swivel chair facing the door. Behind his swivel chair is the city view.

“Matagal-tagal na rin, Ma’am.”

“Are you really Zacariel’s secretary? Or Kuya Zacarias’?”

“Naging sekretarya ako ni Senyorito Zacarias at ngayon ay assistant secretary ako ni Sir Zacariel.”

Tumango siya at sumimsim sa juice.

“Do you know Francha?”

“Yes, Ma’am.”

“Bumibisita pa rin ba siya rito?”

“Hindi na po masyado, Ma’am. Matagal na po no’ng huli siyang nagpunta dito para sa isang meeting.”

“How about other girls? Aside from Francha?”

Mabilis na umiling si Roda na para bang nakuha agad ang ibig niyang sabihin.

“Wala, Ma’am. Wala pong ibang babaeng bumibisita dito sa opisina ni Sir Zacariel. Ikaw lang.”

“That’s good to know.”

Magalang na nagpaalam sa kanya si Roda. Hindi niya alam kung may iba pang gagawin o tumakas lang sa mga maaari niya pang itanong.

While waiting for Zacariel to finish his last meeting before lunch, Yelena dialed Santi’s number to let him know that she’s already in Manila for a short vacation.

“Dapat sinama mo ako!” anito nang malaman kung nasaan siya.

“Pwede ka namang sumunod dito. Papayagan ka ba?”

“Of course. As long as we are together there, my parents will allow me.”

“But we are going to live in different condo. Is that fine with you?”

“Why? Are you staying with Zacariel?” Santi was intrigued.

She smirked. “No. I am staying in the same building where his penthouse is located.”

“Then I’m gonna rent a condo unit there too. What’s the address?”

Natatawa na binanggit niya sa kaibigan kung saang condominium sila ni Zacariel. Siguro naman ay ayos lang sa binata kung naroon din si Santi? Besides, he was always busy. It’s good to have a friend around to spend her time with.

After an almost two hours, Zacariel finally done with his meeting. Sinalubong niya agad ito at niyakap na para bang ang tagal nilang hindi nagkita.

He chuckled. “You missed me that much?”

Hinalikan nito ang ibabaw ng ulo niya.

“Not really, but I get bored waiting here.”

“I’m sorry ’bout that.”

He removed his dark coat and put it at the back of his swivel chair. Leaving him with a white long sleeves polo that hugs his muscled arms.

Napalunok siya nang maramdaman kung gaano siya ka-attracted kay Zacariel. Hindi nga yata nagbago ang damdamin niya. Bagkos, lalo pang lumala noong muli silang magkita at nagkaigihan.

He speaks to Roda through intercoms for their lunch to be served.

“How’s Meadows?” He asked as he walked back to where she was.

She’s sitting on a long sofa that has enough space for him. Doon ito naupo at nanuot muli sa ilong niya ang mabango nitong amoy. It was very manly but it wasn’t that strong. It smell expensive too.

“I think Meadows will be fine with Anita. Hindi naman masyadong maarte ang pusa ko.”

Zacariel placed his warm palm on her lap.

She’s wearing a beige flare pants and she paired it with tube and blazer. Kahit na hindi naman naka expose ang balat niya sa hita niya, ramdam niya pa rin ang init na dala ng palad ng binata.

“How was your first night in your unit? Hindi ka ba natatakot na mag isa ka lang?”

Ngumiti siya tapos ay umiling.

She isn’t scared that she’s alone. For some reason, she likes it. She likes the feeling of being for being alone. It felt like she’s on her own and nobody could control her life anymore. Malaya siyang gumalaw nang hindi iniisip na may mga matang nakatingin sa kanya at handa siyang diktahan anomang sandali.

She never thought that to be alone is to be free. Kaagad niyang naisip na masaya rin palang maging mag isa. Lalo pa at sa sitwasyon niya–na matagal nang hinahangad na magawa ang mga nais ng walang humahadlang sa kanya.

“I am very fine being alone. I am not scared. Instead, I am thankful that you made me experience living by myself, Zacariel.”

“You have me.”

“I know. But I also like the feeling of living alone. Masaya pala. Para bang ang laya-laya ko.”

The back of his other hand goes to her cheek and he caresses her there lightly.

They stared at each other and she knew by then that whatever they have at the moment, she wants it to be last.

“Habang nandito ako sa Maynila, magpa-practice akong magluto. Magpapaturo ako kay Anita.”

“You don’t really need to do that but I won’t stop you.”

See, how he spoils her with the things that she wants to do. Hinding-hindi talaga siya nito kailanman kinontra. Kaya hindi niya rin masisi ang sarili kung bakit talagang nagustuhan niya si Zacariel.

“I could imagine our married life. I’d cook for you and you’d do the same for me. At kapag pareho tayong pagod sa trabaho, Anita could cook for us or we would eat outside instead.”

Habang sinasabi niya ’yon ay marahan lang na nakakatitig sa kanya ang kaharap. She looked and sounded like she’s daydreaming. And he obviously liked it.

“What else is in your mind?” He is interested. She can tell. “I wanna know your thoughts about us.”

Umayos siya sa pagkakaupo. Ang isang palad nito ay nanatili sa ibabaw ng kandungan niya. Habang ang isa naman ay marahan na humahaplos sa kanyang pisngi.

They are too close that she can almost feel his minty breath on her cheek and neck. Hindi naman dapat pero para siyang nalalasing at nahahalina.

“When you were not busy, you’d visit me in my boutique and I’d do the same, here, sa office mo. Iniisip ko rin na hindi siguro tayo mag-aaway? Dahil, ano naman ang pag-aawayan natin?”

Lumamlam ang mga mata nito at may munting ngiti sa labi.

“Kung hindi ka selosa, malabo siguro na mag away tayo?”

Yelena pursed her lips.

Selosa ba siya? Paano niya malalaman na gano’n siya? Kailangan bang makita niya muna si Zacariel na may kasama o kausap na ibang babae bago niya malaman kung selosa siya?

Pero… nangyari na ’yon, di ba? No’ng nakita ito ni Santi na kasama si Francha sa isang restaurant? Ano nga ulit ang ginawa niya nang nalaman niya ’yon?

Uminit ang pisngi niya nang maalala ang mga sinabi niya kay Zacariel no’ng gabing ’yon at ang mga pinaggagagawa niya kinabukasan.

“What if I am a jealous wife?”

“Hmm.”

“Would you find me toxic if I was?”

“No,” he breathed on her neck.

Yelena gulped. She craned her neck for him to have more access on her skin there.

“I would only feel jealous if you gave me reason to feel that. It’s up to you. I think.”

“I won’t give you a reason to feel jealous.”

Paano kung baligtarin naman nila? Kung ito ang magselos. Halimbawa, kay Santi? It’s possible because they are very close. And Zacariel doesn’t have idea about Santi’s secret.

“Hindi ka ba seloso?”

Marahan siyang napapikit nang dumampi ang labi nito sa leeg niya at binigyan siya sa parteng ’yon ng mabababaw na halik.

She’s glad though that he only caress her thighs and he doesn’t try to go further. Dahil kung magiging mapusok ito, baka hindi siya makapagpigil. Mahihirapan siyang kalabanin ang sarili at ang isinisigaw ng kanyang katawan.

“Hindi,” napapaos na sambit nito habang hinahalikan siya sa leeg.

“Paano kapag nakita mo akong may kasamang ibang lalaki? Hindi ka ba magseselos?”

“It depends if who is the guy or what you two are doing.”

“How ’bout… Santi? Is it fine with you that we are too close?”

“Uh-huh.”

Hindi talaga seloso, eh?

“Oh–okay. Mmm… w-what else?”

Yelena can’t concentrate with their conversation because Zacariel is distracting her with his kisses.

“Can I still be friends with boys?”

He paused from kissing her neck as if something distracted him. It must be her question?

“Do you want to have more friends?”

She shook her head. “Not really. I’m contented with Santi and with you.”

“Good.”

“But am I not allowed to be with boys? Because we are in a relationship?”

“No. You’re allowed to socialize with boys and girls even if we are together or married already, Yelena.”

“Hindi ka talaga magseselos? Hindi ’yon magiging issue sayo?”

He stopped from kissing her neck and gave her his attention.

“I would only get jealous if there was a reason to be jealous. Besides, I trust you.”

Trust.

She needs to trust him too. If there’s a trust, she won’t think about negative things if ever she saw him talking with another woman. At dapat, bago siya magselos kung sakali, alamin niya muna ang buong istorya para may batayan siya kung tama ba ang nararamdaman niya.

“I trust you too.”

Their lips met and she can’t help but to be drowned with his kisses.

His hand immediately travelled up on her chest. He massages her breast against the fabric of her tube. Napapaungol siya sa nakakapang init na sensasyon ngunit pinipigilan niya pa rin ang sarili dahil alam niyang anomang oras ay darating na ang pagkain nila.

She doesn’t want his secretary to catch them kissing. She would feel embarrassed.

“Zacariel…” she moaned his name when she heard the knock from the door.

Sa pangalawang katok, doon ito tumigil at inayos ang tube niya na medyo bumaba na. Her cleavage is making his eyes darkened. He sighed at the sight of it.

“Let’s continue this later,” she bite her lower lip in a flirty way.

Zacariel leered and he looked disappointed as he stood up to open the door. Halatang nabitin ito at hindi niya maiwasan ang mapahagikhik.

Roda awkwardly gave the tray to Zacariel. Hindi na ito pumasok at agad din umalis. Mukhang nahalata na may milagro silang ginagawa ng binata.

They spent another hour eating their lunch. At sa tuwing nagkakatinginan sila ni Zacariel, alam nila pareho ang tumatakbo sa isip ng isa’t-isa.

“What time is your next meeting?” She asked casually.

He finished his water and wiped his lips with table napkin. Then he looked at the rolex watch on his wrist.

“I still have two hours before my next meeting.”

“So, dito ka lang sa opisina?”

He nods his head. Then he swallowed when his eyes dropped to her chest.

Yelena simply composed herself by sitting properly and she made sure that she’s giving him a better view of her chest.

“Can I take a rest in your room?”

“Yes.”

“I don’t want to disturb you while you’re working.”

“I’ll be happy seeing you while I’m working.”

She smiled sweetly at him.

“Doon nalang ako magpapahinga,” sabay turo niya sa sofa. “Para nakikita mo ako at ma-inspire ka habang nagtatrabaho.”

He laughed a bit. Very amused.

“Yeah. I need you there to make me inspired because I work for our future.”

Her heart pounded because of his words. He’s really, really sure about her and to spend his future with her.

Dapat ay masaya siya na malaman na seryoso talaga sa kanya si Zacariel at pinaghahandaan nito ang kinabukasan nilang dalawa. Ngunit may parte sa puso niya na tila ba bigla siyang natakot. Natakot na baka hindi matuloy ang plano nila o baka hindi pala sila ang para sa isa’t-isa.

She could imagine herself being in so much pain if she woke up one day that she and Zacariel weren’t together anymore.

Napalunok siya at tila nanikip ang dibdib. Hindi siya sigurado kung dala ba nang iniisip niya o nabusog lang siya.

She’s really comfortable that she needs to take a breath and to do that properly, she needs to loosened her strapless brassiere. Dahil talagang nasisikipan ang dibdib niya.

“I hope you don’t mind that…” sinubukan niyang abutin ng mga kamay ang hook sa likod niya.

“What’s wrong?”

“I think I ate a lot. Biglang sumikip.”

Tumayo si Zacariel at walang pag-aalinlangan na tinulungan siya. He lifted her blazer to see what she’s doing.

“Unhook it. Here, Zacariel,” sabay kapa niya sa hook.

She heard him sighed then did what she asked him to do. Tila ba nakahinga siya nang matiwasay nang makawala kahit papano ang dibdib niya.

Yelena removed her blazer. She doesn’t care wearing a tube without a bra even in front with Zacariel. Sanay na naman ito sa katawan niya at sanay na rin siya rito. Kaya walang problema sa kanya.

He’s already signing some papers on his table but he kept on sighing too. Hindi niya alam kung ano ang problema nito. Tahimik lang naman siya sa sofa habang ka-text si Santi.

“Do you want me to go inside?” She pointed his room.

“No.”

“Am I distracting you?”

“Your nipples does.”

Her cheeks heated right away. Tinignan niya ang dibdib kaagad. She couldn’t blame him when she saw that her nipples are really obvious because the fabric of her tube is thin.

“Hindi ka pa ba sanay?” She smirked.

Tumayo siya at naglakad papunta sa lamesa ng kasintahan. Her action made him stop from signing and he just watched her nearing him.

She bent her body in front of his table, making sure that he have a full view of her breasts.

He sighed again and he hopelessly looked at her chest. Then he licked his lower lips.

“Really, huh? You’re teasing me now.”

“Hindi ah.”

“Come…” he hold her hand for her to come closer.

She giggled and immediately sit on his lap.

Zacariel started kissing her lips as he slowly move his hand under her tube. His fingers found her nipple and that’s already satisfying.

It was a short kiss because she knows what he really wants. He removed down her tube and lowered his head until his mouth found her nipple.

“Oohh…”

Isang masarap na ungol ang umalpas sa kanyang labi habang dinidilaan at sinisipsip ng kasintahan ang ut*ng niya. Salit-salitan at sinisigurado na parehong atensyon ang ibinibigay.

21 ~ JOB (SPG)

CHAPTER TWENTY ONE

YELENA found herself writhing above the large table while Zacariel’s head is in between her thighs. The brightness of the surrounding and the sunlight that comes inside his office didn’t bother her anymore.

Ang tanging mahalaga sa kanya ay ang ligayang nararamdaman sa mga sandaling ’yon. Her legs are apart enough to give him enough access on her femininity. Her heels are placed at the edge of the table.

He’s sitting on his swivel chair and his both palms are massaging her breasts. She’s still fully clothed that he had to unhook her brassier and slid his palms under it to play with her hard nipples.

“Aahh… ahhh…”

Habang hinihimod ng mainit na dila nito ang hiwa ng kanyang pagkababae, sumasabay ang masasarap niyang halinghing. She’s already soaking wet and he seemed to like it.

Ang mga balahibo niya sa katawan ay nagtataasan dahil sa matinding kasabikan na maabot ang rurok. Every time he playfully flicked his tongue against her sensitive bud, she couldn’t help but moan loudly.

He was teasing her by making a quick lick on her cl*toris and when she moaned, he would stop and focus on her entrance to poke her there using the tip of his tongue. It was frustrating because she wants him to continue to play with that part of her womanhood.

“Ohh, Zacariel…” she helplessly grabbed his hair with her one hand and pushed him closer on her inner thighs as if he wasn’t close enough.

He pinched her nipples that made her bite her lower lips. The air-condition of his office was on but her body is burning already. Kulang nalang ay hubarin niya ang damit at tuluyang magkalunod sa kamunduhan.

Another whimper escaped from her when she felt his finger poking her entrance. Noong una ay tinutukso lang nito ang lagusan at hindi naman tuluyang ipinapasok. Alam na alam nito kung paano siya patakamin at pasukuin. Habang abala ang dila sa kuntil ng pagkababae niya, gumagawa naman ng panibagong milagro ang daliri nito sa entrada niya.

Yelena’s mouth opened when he finally inserted a digit inside of her. Kasabay ng mabagal na paglabas-masok ng malaking daliring ’yon sa pagkababae niya ay ang nakakapanghinang paghimod din ng dila nito sa parteng ’yon ng kanyang katawan.

“Oohhh… mmm… y-yes, aahhh… t-that feel so g-good… mmm…”

Namimintig ang pagkababae niya sa sobrang kaligayahan. Tila hindi niya na rin makilala ang sarili sa tuwing umiilanglang sa pandinig niya ang masasarap na ungol niya.

Her legs shook after awhile and she couldn’t stop the spasm. The rush and the heat inside of her seemed so ready with the explosion.

At nang sipsipin nito ang sensitibong kuntil ng kanyang pagkababae at hindi pinakawalan kahit pa nanginig na ang mga hita niya, doon na tuluyang lumabas ang kiliting naipon sa kanyang puson. Para siyang panandaliang nawala sa ulirat dahil sa matinding sarap.

A long moan echoed inside his office when she had her mind-blowing release. Her legs were shaking and the beating of her heart was loud and fast. Daig pa ang nakipagkarera dahil sa tulin ng bawat tibok.

She’s still high from her orgasm when Zacariel’s carry her in a bridal style. Pakiramdam niya ay naubos ang enerhiya niya dahil sa nangyari.

He brought her to another room where his bed was. Doon siya nito inilapag bago siya nito hinalikan sa noo.

“Take a rest,” he muttered.

She honestly expected that he would take her there but he looked like he won’t. He’s already standing near the bed and watching her intently.

Yelena pursed her lips. So, he won’t take her?

“Aren’t you going to-” she paused when he chuckled.

Uminit ang pisngi niya at tinablahan ng hiya. Siya talaga ang may gusto na ipagpatuloy nila sa kama ang pagtatalik? Hindi man lang siya nagpaliguy-ligoy man lang? Gano’n na ba talaga siya kasabik?

“Do you want me to?”

She couldn’t answer anymore. Ni hindi niya matignan ng deretsahan sa mga mata ang kasintahan. She’s very aggressive and wild! She was really the one who wants to have sex with him! While he can control himself, here she is, very thirsty to feel him inside of her.

Zacariel then sat at the space beside her. He caressed her cheek using the back of his hand.

“I’m not rejecting you. I know you’re tired already and I think it’s best if I let you rest.”

Hindi naman sa nabitin siya. Sa katunayan nga niyan ay sobrang satisfied na siya. Nag expect lang talaga siya na ipagpapatuloy nila sa kama ang hindi nagawa sa ibabaw ng lamesa. Isa pa, gusto niya na paluguran din si Zacariel. Hindi ’yong siya lang. Dapat pareho sila.

She glanced at the bulged between his thighs. Even though he’s wearing a dark, it’s still visible. He’s hard as like rock. Without a second thought, she placed her palm above his manhood that made him groaned.

Parang gusto niyang tumili nang gumalaw ang pagkalalaki nito habang hawak niya. Matigas na ’yon kanina pero lalong tumigas na para bang gustong kumawala at magpakita sa kanya.

“I’m not really tired and I could do one round. But I think you need to…” she caressed his hard member against the fabric of his slacks. “…free him.”

Zacariel’s lips parted as if he suddenly having a hard time to breath. He’s staring darkly at her. Para bang pinanlalabanan ang emosyon ngunit nahihirapang mapanindigan ’yon dahil sa paghihimas na ginagawa niya sa matigas na ari nito.

“You just have to teach me. I can give you a hand job-”

“Yelena,” he looked so shocked with her words. “Where did you…” now he looked stressed.

Ngumuso siya. “A hand job is one of the way to please a man. I want to do that, Zacariel. I want to please you.”

Mariin itong napapikit na animo matindi ang problemang pinagdadaanan.

Bumangon siya upang iparating dito ang pagiging determinado sa gustong gawin. Sana ay pagbigyan siya ng kasintahan. She really wants to please him. It would be an achievement for her if she made him orgasm using only her hands. It will be her first time to do it and she’s excited but also nervous. Dahil baka hindi niya magawa ng maayos at hindi ito maligayahan.

“Please… Zacariel…” she even begged for him to agree.

Umungol ito at halos manghina. Lumamlam ang mga mata habang nakatitig sa mukha niya.

He’s really good looking. She always admired his face and his over all physical appearance and even his behavior. But watching him at that moment, she realized that she doesn’t only like him romantically. She also likes him sexually.

Her face heated at that realization.

She simply took a deep breath to composed herself. She was distracted to discovered her new feelings for him. Maybe it wasn’t really knew after all. Baka noong una palang na may nangyari sa pagitan nila, maaaring gusto niya na talaga ang binata sa gano’ng klaseng damdamin.

And probably he feels the same? Right? He’s also like her sexually? And also romantically? She’s very curious now if what he really feels for her in a different ways.

He didn’t say any words, so Yelena took that as a cue that he allowed her.

“I’m gonna unbukle your belt,” aniya na parang nagpapaalam.

Her shaky fingers found the button and she immediately unbuckled and unbuttoned his slacks, making him cursed under his breath.

She purses her lips as she makes her herself busy with his zipper this time. At sa tuwing tumatama ang kamay o mga daliri niya sa pagkalalaki nito, kulang nalang ay mapaigtad ito. He seemed so sensitive with her touch that it made her happy for some reason. It was already satisfying on her side.

She freed his hard member and giggled when she saw how erect it was. The small veins on his shaft were protruding in a way that made her think it needs some gentle caress to calm them down. Para bang kailangan niyang paamuhin ang mga ugat na ’yon dahil talagang nag-aalpasan sa galit.

The precum on his tip making her bite her lower lips. Mula sa parteng ’yon, inangat niya ang tingin kay Zacariel.

He’s watching her very closely like a predator who was just waiting for the right time to punish his prey.

Hindi niya inalis ang mga mata niya rito kahit na inumpisahan niya nang igalaw pataas at pababa ang kamay niya sa mabagal na paraan. Her one hand can’t fully accommodate his shaft. She wasn’t sure if her hand was just small or his size is just so impressive. Dahil hindi magtagpo ang mga daliri niya habang sakal-sakal ang kahabaan nito.

“Am I doing it right?” She innocently asked.

He swallowed hard and licked his lower lips before he nodded his head as an answer to her question.

Ngumiti siya. Nagagalak na malaman tama ang ginagawa niya kahit unang beses palang ’yon simula nang ibigay niya ang sarili rito.

“Do… you… like this?”

“Yeah,” his voice was raspy.

She broke their eye contact to focus on his hard member. Noong una ay kuntento pa siya na isang kamay lang ang ginagamit niya. Pero nang matanto na pwede namang dalawa, ginamit niya na ang isa pa.

Zacariel changed his position. He’s now resting his back at the headrest of the bed. Nakaalis na rin ang ilang butones ng puting dress shirt nito at medyo nagusot na.

Using her two hands, she continued to give him a hand job. Itinaas-baba niya lang ang mga kamay sa bilis at bagal na gusto niya. Whenever she heard him groaned or cursed, she was making her pace faster.

The precum on his tip is like a melting ice cream that made her so tempted to lick it.

Napalunok siya sa biglang naisip. Tila nag apoy ang kanyang pisngi dahil hindi maalis sa utak niya ang tungkol doon.

Tumingin ulit siya kay Zacariel. She caught him staring at her while clenching his jaw. Hindi siya sigurado kung galit ba ito o kinokontrol lang ang emosyon.

“C-can I lick?” She asked softly while her heart is thumping rapidly.

Umawang ang namumulang labi nito. Namungay ang mga mata at mukhang nahirapang mag desisyon bigla.

“Uh, I wanna taste…” she pointed his tip using her lips.

Zacariel didn’t even look on his manhood. He jaw clenched before he licked his lower lips again. Habang pinagmamasdan niya ito, mas lalo siyang nasasabik na gawin ang gusto.

She wants to see his reaction or how he would react once her lips touches his tip. She wants to know how would he feel if she kiss him on his private part.

“Payag ka na?” nakangiting tanong niya, parang batang excited na nag-aabang ng regalo kahit hindi pasko.

“Do whatever that pleases you.”

He smile grew wider and she saw how he leered at her before he rested his back and cursed under his breath again.

“I’m gonna taste na…” paalam niya pa ulit para alam nito dahil hindi na nakatingin sa kanya.

Her heart is beating so loud and wild as she lowered down her head to get closer to his impressive manhood.

Napalunok siya at hindi na malaman kung ano ang tunay na nararamdaman dahil naghalo-halo na. She’s excited, thrilled and nervous at the same time. Pero nagagalak din siya dahil malaya niyang nagagawa ang gusto.

She closed her eyes when her lips touched his tip. It flinched against her lips and she was in awe when she felt that. She doesn’t want to ruin the moment so she stop herself from speaking about it.

She stuck out her tongue and licked the pre-cum. She needed to do another lick for her to know what it taste like. When she did another consecutive lick on his tip, that’s when she felt his hand on her hair.

Maybe it was a sign that he liked what she was doing. Kaya naman ipinagpatuloy niya ang paghagod ng dila sa ulo ng pagkalalaki ng kasintahan na para bang iyon ang paboritong ice cream niya.

“Yelena,” the warning on his tone didn’t stop her.

Umirap lang siya at inulit-ulit ang ginagawang pagdila. His tip is already getting reddish and sensitive. Evey flick of her tongue on it, it flinched. Hindi siya tumitigil lalo na kapag nagmumura ang kasintahan at napapahigpit ang pagkapit sa mahaba niyang buhok.

He was gripping the hair from her nape as if his life depended on it.

“I’m gonna give you a hand while licking you,” she told him and did what she say.

Her one hand was moving up and down on his shaft while she’s busy deliciously gliding her tongue on his tip. At sa bawat sandaling lumilipas, tila ba may gusto pa siyang gawin upang mas lalong paligayahin ang binata.

Kahit na hindi naman maalam sa bagay na ’yon, sinubukan niya pa rin at hindi na nang hingi pa ng permiso.

She opened her mouth and put his manhood inside. Para siyang maduduwal dahil sa sariling kagagawan at pagkabigla. She wasn’t ready for that. She even needed to stretched her lips more to accommodate even half of his shaft. Alam niya sa sarili na hindi niya kayang ipasok ang kabuuan ng ari ng kasintahan sa loob ng bibig niya.

“Tang ina,” he cursed in a rasp tone, that she found him hot.

Yelena blinked when she felt like she was about to be choked. But her pride won’t allow her to stop what she have started. Kaya kahit na para na siyang mabibilaukan, pinilit niya pa rin ang gustong mangyari.

She moved her head up and down despite of being uncomfortable. Siya ang may gusto niyon kaya walang ibang dapat sisihin kundi siya lang. At sigurado siya na kapag napansin ng binata na nahihirapan siya, papahintuin siya nito at ayaw niyang dumating sila sa punto na ’yon.

Habang nakapikit ang mga mata, ipinagpatuloy niya ang paglabas-masok ng ari ng kasintahan sa loob ng bibig niya. She doesn’t know if that was the right move or the right way to do it, but as long as he didn’t complain, she will continue until he have his orgasm.

“Yelena, fuck…” he grips on his hair with his one hand. His other hand is travelling on her thighs.

Kung kanina lang ay naka focus siya sa ginagawa niya, ngayong naramdaman ang daliri ni Zacariel sa pagkababae niya, nahati agad ang atensyon niya.

Habang marahan na ipinapadulas nito ang daliri sa hiwa ng hiyas niya, siya naman ay abala sa pagpapaligaya rito. She needs to focus again on him otherwise she would have her orgasm first before him.

She sucked and licked him until she heard him cursed. Kaya lang sa tuwing nasasarapan ito, mas pinag-iigihan din ang paglalabas-masok ng daliri sa loob ng pagkababae niya.

It wasn’t a competition but for her, it seemed like it was. Gusto niyang manalo sa larong iyon kaya ginalingan niya rin talaga.

Sa sobrang sarap at ligaya, mariin siyang napapikit habang nasa loob ng bibig niya ang nag uumigting na ari ng kasintahan, habang nakakaliyong gumagalaw ang daliri nito sa hiyas niya.

“Hmmm… uhhh…” napaigtad siya at nayanig ang katawan nang masarap na ibaon nito ang dalawang daliri sa loob niya.

“Tang ina…” he flinched inside her mouth before she felt a hot liquid from him.

He made a long satisfying groan as they both reached their orgasm.

“Baby, you can free me from your mouth,” he chuckled after a while because she didn’t move and his shaft stayed inside her mouth.

He gently caressed her hair then felt him kissed her head.

Honestly, it was tiring but also very satisfying. Hindi niya na kaya ang susunod na round kaya ayos lang sa kanya na magpahinga na sila.

After swallong everything that he released, she composed herself with a big smile on her lips. She was just so happy that she made him cum!

The way her eyes twinkled while proudly looking at him put a smile on his lips.

“I made it!” she hissed merrily.

“Yeah. My baby did a great job.” He muttered huskily that boosted her confidence.

She couldn’t help but to embraced him because of so much joy. To make him feel how she feels.

He laughed heartily with her reaction. Then he welcomed her on his chest before she felt him kissed the side of her head.

22 ~ RELATIONSHIP

CHAPTER TWENTY TWO

BECAUSE of what happened inside Zacariel’s office last time when she was there, Yelena decided not to visit this time. Pakiramdam niya ay masyadong mabilis ang nangyayari sa relasyon nila ng binata at kahit itanggi man ang negatibong naiisip niya sa katotohanan na ’yon, pilit pa rin siyang binabagabag na baka pansamantala lang ang kasiyahan siya na kasama ito.

Imagine, their paths crossed again after a year and suddenly she woke up that she’s already bound to marry him. Samantalang, ang pag tanggi nito noong nakaraang summer na huwag pakasal sa kanya ang dahilan kung bakit nadurog ang puso niya.

Kahit na ayaw naman talaga niyang isipin ang mga bagay na ’yon, wala siyang magawang kundi kwestyunin nga ang pagdaloy ng buhay niya ngayong parte ulit niyon si Zacariel.

“Huh? I thought you’re happy that you and kuya Zacariel are now official? Bakit iniisip mo na baka pansamantala lang ang relasyon niyo?” Kahit si Santi ay naguguluhan din tuloy sa kanya.

Yelena is with Meadow inside the condo unit. Kakaalis lang ni Anita pagkatapos siyang lutuan ng lunch at maglinis. Sa araw na ’yon, hindi siya bibisita sa opisina ni Zacariel dahil nga kahit isang araw lang, gusto niya itong iwasan.

Masyado siyang agresibo. She finally noticed that about her. Baka nga pinagbibigyan lang siya ni Zacariel kapag napapansin na nasasabik siyang makipag-talik dito. Naaalala niya pa na sinabi nito na ang relasyon nila ay hindi lang patungkol sa pagtatalik. Siya lang talaga itong nag-iisip na iyon ang pinaka-ugat kung bakit nakakasama niya na ang lalaking matagal niya nang pinapangarap.

Ano ba talaga ang tunay niyang nararamdaman para kay Zacariel Guerrera? Ano ba ang nangingibabaw sa kanya? Ang labis na paghanga niya rito o ang hindi maiwasang tawag ng laman kaya nahuhumaling siya ng husto?

“I don’t know to myself, Santi. Naisip ko lang bigla na ang bilis bilis nang mga pangyayari. Noong nakaraang summer lang ay heartbroken ako dahil tinanggihan niyang pakasalan ako. Pero ngayon, papakasalan niya na ako? Bakit? Mahal niya ba ako? O baka naaawa lang siya sa akin? Dahil alam niya ang gusto kong mangyari sa buhay ko at ang pagpapakasal ay hindi kasali sa mga plano ko.”

Santi sighed. He also looked problematic. Banaag niya ’yon sa screen ng iphone niya dahil kanina niya pa ito ka-video call.

“Hindi naman siguro papayag na matali ang isang Guerrera kung hindi nila talaga gusto ang babae na papakasalan?”

Yelena couldn’t help but think about that. Oo nga naman. She knew Guerrera a lot and they don’t really marry if they’re not in love. Ibig bang sabihin niyon ay in love sa kanya si Zacariel?

Tila ba ang hirap hirap paniwalaan niyon. It felt like it was impossible that in a short period of time that they were together, he fell in love with her?

Dahil sigurado siya, na kahit noon pa man, nakababatang kapatid lang ang turing sa kanya ng Guerrera na ’yon. At kung hindi siya agresibong babae, hindi rin siguro siya papatulan nito.

Kaya nakapagtataka na ma-in love kaagad sa kanya si Zacariel noong mag-krus ulit ang landas nila makalipas lang ang isang taon na hindi pagkikita.

“Tingin mo… gusto niya talaga ako? He will marry me because he likes me? Not because he pity me?”

“Why don’t you ask him that?”

Mabilis siyang umiling. Kahit naman malakas ang loob niya, ang bagay na ’yon ang hindi niya itatanong kay Zacariel. She’s afraid to know what he really feels for her because she might get hurt if their feelings aren’t mutual.

“I don’t wanna ask him that.”

“Or maybe you’re just bored there that’s why you have time to think a lot of things… na pwede naman hindi na isipin pa. Aren’t you happy that you finally get his attention? Na sa wakas ay papakasalan ka na niya? Hindi mo na iisipin kung paano aabutin ang pangarap mong kurso dahil susuportahan ka nang magiging asawa mo? Come on, Yelena, think of the things that will benefits you. At hindi ang mga bagay na negatibo.”

Bumuntonghininga siya.

She petted Meadow’s head when the cat lay on her lap.

“I will try to stop thinking about his reasons why he’s marrying me. Anyway, thanks for your time Santi. I hope you can visit here this weekend? So we could party again?”

He smirked. “I’ll try. But for now, maybe do it yourself? Especially that you looked bored there. Hindi ba mahigpit sayo si kuya Zacariel?”

“Hindi naman…” she trailed off.

“Talaga?”

“Oo. Sabi niya, ayos lang sa kanya na makipag-socialize ako.”

“That’s good! See? He’s very matured and understanding.”

A smile formed her lips when she realized that Zacariel Guerrera is indeed matured and he easily understands things around him. Hindi mahigpit sa kanya. Hindi rin seloso.

Samantalang siya, unti-into niyang nadidiskubre kung gaano siya ka-selosa.

Maisip niya palang na ang kasama ni Zacariel sa mga meetings nito ay mga babae, naiirita agad siya. Probably, he’s very far compare to her from how she sees things. Siguro, kahit makita siya ng kasintahan na may kausap na lalaki, hindi man lang tatablahan ng selos. He’s not a jealous type of man, he told her that.

Para hindi na mabagot at mahinto ang maraming bagay na tumatakbo sa isip niya, nag desisyon siyang lumabas. Luckily, the condo building is close to the Mall, cafes and parks where she could spend the rest of her days. Dahil sa gabi naman, bumibisita siya sa penthouse ni Zacariel.

Yelena is walking with Meadow at high street. Maraming tao lalo pa at malapit nang lumubog ang araw. Sa chose the table outside the coffee shop while having her cup of cappuccino and a sliced of cake.

When her iPhone beeped, she immediately looked who texted her.

From: Zac

We could have dinner outside if you like.

She typed a reply.

To: Zac

Sure. Let me know if you’re already on your way back home. I need to be back at my unit to prepare for our dinner and leave Meadow there.

From: Zac

I have one more meeting for today then I’ll be home. Send me a photo of you.

Ngumiti siya. Sinabi niya kay Zacariel na lalabas siya at kasama si Meadow. She used to send him a photo or her selfie though. Kahit hindi ito manghingi ng larawan niya, magsesend naman din talaga siya.

Yelena took a selfie and made sure she has that pretty smile on her lips before she sent it to him.

To: Zac

I’ll just finish my coffee. Walk Meadow a bit. Then go back to the condo.

Zacariel didnt reply anymore. Siguro ay abala na sa huling meeting sa araw na ’yon.

Yelena is about to sip when she saw a familiar face of a woman, coming towards her direction.

Francha, despite of not seeing the woman for a year, she remained beautiful and sexy like the last time she saw her during Don Patricio’s birthday. May kasama itong isa pang babae. Nagtatawanan ang dalawa ngunit nang makita siya, nahinto.

“Are you ready for a walk, Meadow?” She asked her cat and ignore the women even though they are already standing near her table.

“Yelena, right?” That was Francha.

Wala naman talaga siyang balak pansinin ang mga ito kung hindi lang lumapit sa kanya. Isa pa, kahit na wala naman talagang ginagawang masama sa kanya si Francha, ayaw niya sa babaeng ito. At alam niya ang rason ng iritasyon niya.

“Yeah,” she muttered coldly.

“Was she the reason why you and Zacariel broke up?” The woman whispered to Francha but she heard it. Halata naman na sinadya na iparinig sa kanya.

At ano ang sinasabi nito na siya ang dahilan kung bakit nag break ang dalawa? Wala siyang alam sa bagay na ’yon.

“I didn’t see any reason but her,” Francha sounded so bitter.

“Oh. Maybe let the girl know that? She pretended that she didn’t ruin a relationship eh?”

Yelena took a deep breath. Maarte siyang sumimsim sa kape niya. Then she rested her back on her chair as she looked up at the two ladies in front of her. Mabait naman siya, eh. Wag lang siyang uunahan pakitaan ng kagaspangan. Dahil kaya niyang pumatol sa kahit kanino pa masigurado niya lang na hindi siya ma-argabyado.

“I don’t really have idea what you two were talking about. I’d be happy if you both leave me alone.”

The other woman gasped. Hindi inaasahan na gano’n ang reaksyon niya.

“Ikaw pa talaga ang malakas ang loob? Ganyan na ganyan ka rin noong sa Hacienda. Hindi ka marunong makiramdam. You knew ever since that Zacariel only liked you as his younger sister, but what did you do, Yelena? Huh? You did your best to get him from me!”

Gusto niyang tawanan ang kamisereblihan sa boses at itsura ni Francha. Pero naisip niya na katulad niya, nasasaktan din ito? Dahil iniwan ni Zacariel? Dahil ba sa kanya? Wala naman siyang ka-alam alam. Bakit siya dinadamay?

“You! Your parents spoiled you so much that they supported your wrong doings!” akusa nito sa kanya kahit wala namang tamang batayan.

At kung alam lang nito na ayaw niya naman sa paraan ng pamamalakad ng pamilya niya, hindi nito sasabihin ang mga salitang ’yon.

“Pwede ba? Don’t blame me for the things I didn’t do. I did not even know you and Zacariel had a relationship-”

“You knew that! Hindi ba, you stayed in Hacienda last year? Pinilit mo pa siya na mag stay din doon kahit na alam mong abala siya sa trabaho niya rito sa Maynila. Wala kang pakialam sa iba dahil kasiyahan mo lang ang mahalaga sa ’yo! Kahit menor de edad ka palang, ipinipilit mo na ang sarili mo sa kanya! Hindi ka na nahiya!”

Francha is already catching attention from the people around them.

“Really? So, even though she’s still a minor, pinatulan siya ni Zacariel?” The other woman stares at her with disgust on her eyes.

“Excuse me? I didn’t have a relationship with Zacariel when I was a still a minor.” She leered.

She badly want to defend Zacariel but she also wanted to end that kind of topic. Isa pa, wala naman talaga silang relasyon ni Zacariel noong nakaraang taon. So, hindi siya pinatulan!

“And you,” she gave Francha a disappointed look. “If you really love Zacariel you will never think ill of him. Gano’n ba kababa ang tingin mo sa kanya na papatol siya sa menor de edad? Poor you. Mabuti nalang at naghiwalay kayo dahil ang katulad mo ay hindi nararapat sa kanya-”

“At sino ang karapat-dapat? Ikaw? Hindi ba at totoo naman na ipinilit mo ang sarili mo sa kanya para hindi ka ma-i-kasal sa lalaking napili ng pamilya mo para sayo? Sa sobrang kasakiman mo, idinamay mo pa si Zacariel! You forced him to marry you so that you can escape from your family and you can do whatever you want to do with your life!”

Yelena remained calm and composed. Pinipilit niya rin ngumiti sa mga napapatingin sa gawi nila. She then put Meadow above her lap, petting her cat’s head. Pakiramdam niya, sa pamamagitan niyon, kumakalma siya. Mabuti nalang talaga at kasama niya ang alaga niya.

“At kung pinilit ko nga siyang pakasal sa akin, ano naman ang pakialam mo? Di ba, break na kayo?” She rolled her eyes. “Stop being a bitter ex-girlfriend, Francha. Hindi ’yan nakakaganda.”

Napaigtad siya nang paluin nito ang lamesa niya. Kulang nalang ay hablutin siya at kaladkarin. Ang panginginig ng mga kamay nito ay tanda na nagagalit talaga sa kanya.

“Francha, let’s go.” Aya ng kasama nito.

“No. This kid needs to know the value of a relationship, so next time she wouldn’t ruin another one. For you, Yelena, don’t be too confident just because Zacariel agreed to be involved with your family’s tradition. Don’t think that he loves you that’s why he would marry you. Hindi ka niya mahal!”

Kahit na medyo tanggap niya naman na hindi naman siya mahal ni Zacariel, masakit pa rin pala marinig ang katotohanan na ’yon. Napalunok siya at nagpatuloy sa pag haplos kay Meadow.

Yelena can feel how her heart pounded and it hurts her. Inilagay niya na naman sa isip niya na hindi pagmamahalan ang dahilan kung bakit sila magpapakasal ni Zacariel, pero bakit nasasaktan pa rin siya?

Then, she remembered, that she is Yelena Altamonte. Masasaktan siya, mabibigo at panghihinaan ng loob, ngunit lalaban. Hindi magpapatalo. Hindi magpapa-api kahit kanino. Lalo pa sa mga taong wala namang ambag sa buhay niya. At walang ideya sa totoong pinagdadaanan niya.

“Whatever you say, I’ll still marry the man you love. I’ll be his wife. I’ll have his name on mine. I’ll live with him in one roof and make love with him whenever I want to,” she muttered softly that it sounded so creepy… so dangerous.

Kumuyom ang mga kamao ng babae na nasa ibabaw ng lamesa. Kaunti nalang ay para bang sasaktan na siya.

Yelena is not into violence. But she needs to be aware because she doesn’t want Francha to physically hurt her. Pero hindi niya papalagpasin ang pagkakataon na ’yon na ipaglaban ang sarili niya.

“And you can’t stop me from marrying him. Alam mo kung ano lang ang magagawa mo?” She smirked at the woman who’s now fuming mad.

“… Tignan siya sa malayo. Pangarapin siya sa malayo. At mahalin siya sa malayo. Habang… kasama niya ako-”

“You bitch!” Francha cut her off and was about to pull her hair but to her surprise, Meadow was so quick to defend her!

Nanlalaki ang mga mata ni Yelena nang makita kung paano tumalon si Meadow papunta kay Francha at kalmutin ang leeg nito. Humiyaw ang babae at nahawakan ang pusa niya, bago binalibag!

Kulang nalang ay umusok ang mga tenga niya dahil bumagsak ang alaga niya sa sahig ng walang kalaban-laban. Mabilis niyang dinaluhan si Meadow at nang makita ang mga mata nitong halatang nasaktan, tila pinunit ang puso niya.

Nanlilisik ang mga mata niya nang balikan ng tingin si Francha, na nagulat din sa nangyari.

Yelena carried Meadow on her arm carefully. Napalunok siya dahil napansin na parang nanghihina ang pinakamamahal niyang pusa. Hindi siya papayag na hindi niya magaganti si Meadow!

Sinugod niya si Francha habang karga ang pusa niya, ngunit mabilis na nakuha nito ang tasa ng kape niya at sinaboy sa kanya ang kaunting laman niyon. Hindi na mainit kaya hindi niya ininda. Hindi siya nagpaawat kahit pa nasabuyan na ang mukha niya pababa sa damit.

Francha’s eyes widened when she slapped the woman’s damn face, as hard as she could!

Pati ang mga kamay ni Yelena ay nanginginig sa pinaghalong galit at sakit. When Meadow meowed weakly, her tears pooled her eyes. Hinaplos niya ang ulo nito at ikinulong sa bisig niya.

Nagkagulo na ang mga tao at marami ang umawat kay Francha. Lalo na naging mas agresibo itong sugurin siya dahil sa malakas niyang sampal.

Without looking back, Yelena walked away, while crying and caressing Meadow’s head and body.

“I’m sorry… I’m sorry…” umiiyak siya dahil sinisisi niya ang sarili kung bakit pati ang pusa niya ay nadamay.

Naglakad siya pabalik sa condominium building habang walang tigil ang pag iyak niya. Nanghihina na talaga si Meadow at natatakot siya na baka mawala sa kanya ito.

“Yelena!” That voice from behind made her cried more.

Nilingon niya si Zacariel na papasok sa lobby, halatang kadarating lang nito dahil sa suot. He’s still on his white long sleeves polo that folded until his forearms, a black slacks and leather shoes.

At nang makita siyang umiiyak, bumilis lalo ang bawat hakbang para makalapit sa kanya.

“What happened? Why are you crying?”

“S-si Meadow,” sabay yakap niya sa pusa niya na para bang ang yakap niya ang magpapalakas dito.

Zacariel paused when he saw Meadow with her.

“Let’s bring Meadow to vet clinic, p-please, Zacariel…” she sobbed and her tears continued to rolled down her cheeks.

Without any words from him, he guided her to where his car was, then he drove to the near veterinary clinic.

Zacariel started to sneezed and felt sorry for him. Pero mahalaga talaga sa kanya na malaman ang kalagayan ng pusa niya sa mga sandaling ’yon. Kaya naman tanging paumanhin lang ang tangi niyang nasabi rito.

While waiting for Meadow’s check up to be done, Zacariel took antihistamine for his allergy.

Even though, she wants to get near him, she chose not to. Dahil alam niyang madadagdagan lang ang pag bahing nito dahil sa kanya.

“Uh, you can go back to your penthouse. Ako na ang bahala kay Meadow. Kaya kong umuwi.”

“You have to tell me what happened.”

Ngumuso siya at uminit ang pisngi nang hindi napigilan ang pag hikbi. Labis ang pag iyak niya kanina kaya naiiwan pa ang mga munting hikbi.

“Let’s talk about it later. You have to change, Zacariel.”

“I’ll ask my driver to pick you and Meadow here.”

Tumango siya. Mabuti nalang at pumayag itong umuwi na. Kung hindi, magpapatuloy lang ang pag bahing nito.

“I’ll prepare our dinner too.”

Hindi na sila sa labas kakain. Wala rin naman siyang ganang lumabas pa dahil baka nasa paligid lang si Francha at hindi siya makapagpigil. Gusto niya pang gumanti!

Zacariel left already. After a few moment, the veterinarian came out from her clinic while carrying Meadow. Ibinigay ito sa kanya at sinabi na kailangan ng pahinga ng pusa niya dahil nabugbog ang katawan. Accorrding to the x-tray, wala namang nabaling buto. At ipinagpasalamat niya ’yon.

Dinner came. They are inside Zacariel’s penthouse. He prepared a carbonara pasta, garlic bread, and wine for them.

Yelena made sure that she looked fine so that he won’t really ask about what happened. But she doubted it too. Alam niyang u-ungkatin ’yon ni Zacariel.

“What happened to Meadow?”

Inubos niya ang laman ng bibig. Sumimsim muna sa wine bago tinignan si Zacariel.

“Hinagis siya ni Francha.”

His thick brows furrowed. Hindi niya na hinintay pang magsalita ito, kaya kinuwento niya na ang nangyari kanina.

“I didn’t know you two were in a relationship. I didn’t mean to ruin it. Kaya galit na galit siya sa akin.”

“We never had a relationship.”

She stared at him weakly. Ano pa ba ang magagawa niya, nasaktan na si Meadow.

“Ayoko ng maulit ang ganito, Zacariel. Nababaliw ang mga babae sa ’yo. Ayokong dumating ang araw na magugulat nalang ako na may hahablot sa buhok ko at sasabihing kabit ako.”

“What are you talking about? Hindi ako nakikipag-relasyon. Sa ’yo lang, Yelena.”

Humugot siya ng hangin sa dibdib. Dapat ay masaya siyang malaman ’yon pero natakot pa siya. Pakiramdam niya tuloy, may mga babae pa itong susulpot nalang bigla para awayin siya.

“I want our engagement and wedding to be a secret. I want it intimate and private.”

Siguro, sa paraan na ’yon, magiging ligtas siya sa mga mata ng mga babaeng nahuhumaling sa Guerrera sa harap niya.

“Why is that?” He looked puzzled.

“I want our relationship to be private, too.” She added that made his lips parted.

“But I want the world to know our relationship.”

Umiling siya. Buo na ang desisyon na panatilihing pribado ang pakikipag-relasyon niya sa isang Guerrera. Mahirap na. Kailangan niyang masigurado muna na walang ibang babaeng magagalit sa kanya bago malaman ng lahat na may relasyon nga talaga sila.

23 ~ IMAGINE

CHAPTER TWENTY THREE

DINAMDAM ni Yelena ang nangyari kay Meadow. Ilang araw din siyang nawalan ng gana at kahit ang pag visita sa opisina ni Zacariel ay hindi niya magawa.

Sa tuwing naiisip niya si Francha, ang mga ibinato nitong masasakit na salita sa kanya, at sa ginawang pag balibag sa pusa niya, bumabalik ang pait sa dibdib niya. Pakiramdam niya, hindi sapat ang sampal niya sa babae. Hindi niyon mapapawi ang sakit na naramdaman ng alaga niya.

Yelena’s mother kept on reminding her about her internship soon. She’s a graduated student and taking BS Tourism Management. Sa lahat ng kurso, iyon lang tangi ang alam niyang medyo magagamit niya ang hilig niya sa fashion. Her classmates used to admired her the way she dressed and the way she created a design even just for a little things.

“Santi will help me look for airlines for my OJT, mom. I’ll let you know once we get one.”

On the screen of her MacBook, is her mother who’s having her manicure and pedicure at home. She have mask on her face too. She’s really pampering herself. Medyo naiinggit siya. She needs that kind of treatment too. She has been stressed for last few days. Baka pumapangit na siya. Hindi ’yon pwede!

“Okay. Ayoko lang na makalimutan mo ’yon. Anyway, how are you there? You looked lonely. Mabuti nalang Meadow is there with you.”

“I’m good. I’ll see Zacariel for dinner like usual.”

“Hindi ka ba bumibisita sa opisina niya?”

“He’s very busy. I don’t want to disturb him.”

Kahit na nagsabi naman si Zacariel na pwede siyang bumisita, mas pinili niya huwag muna. Baka masalubong niya pa doon si Francha! Masisira lang ang araw niya.

Umismid ang mommy niya na para bang hindi naniniwala sa kanya. Palagi naman siya nitong pinagdududahan.

“Dapat lang, Yelena. He’s working hard for your future. Wag mong istorbohin. Dapat nga ay umuwi ka nalang dito. Wala ka naman ginagawa diyan sa condo, anak.”

Pumasok din ’yon sa isip niya. Gusto niyang i-uwi na muna si Meadow. Baka namimiss na rin nito ang ambiance sa Casa Alta. Bukod pa do’n, naroon din ang ibang pusa na pwede nitong makalaro.

“Sasabihin ko po kay Zacariel.”

“Send my regards to him.”

“Okay mommy.”

The video call ended after a few moment.

Ilang oras din niyang pinag-isipan kung uuwi ba talaga siya? Paano kung umuwi siya tapos ay na-miss niya si Zacariel? Babalik na naman siya sa Maynila kung gano’n nga?

Bago siya mag desisyon, dapat na masigurado niya na hindi niya pagsisisihan kapag ginawa niya na.

“Gusto mo bang umuwi na sa Casa Alta, Meadow? Para may kalaro ka,” kausap niya sa pusa niyang nasa tabi niya nakahiga.

Meadow meowed. Hindi niya sigurado kung oo o hindi ba ang sagot nito.

“Pwede kitang ihatid doon. Dahil sigurado ako na babalik din ako dito. Magdadagdag lang ako ng mga gamit at damit ko. I’ll have my internship here. Kapag na-ayos ko na ang mga papel na kakailanganin ko, aalis na ako ng Casa Alta. Ayos lang ba sayo ’yon? Ilang buwan akong mawawala. Pero bibisitahin naman kita eh.”

Dinala niya si Meadow sa kandungan niya at hinaplos ang malambot nitong balahibo.

“Paano pala kapag mag asawa na kami ni Zacariel? Hindi ka pwedeng tumira sa amin kasi allergic siya sa fur mo. Paano na ’yan?”

Dumaan ang lungkot sa kanya nang maisip ang tungkol sa bagay na ’yon. Hindi niya naman kaya na araw-araw babahing si Zacariel dahil kay Meadow.

Mukhang wala naman pakialam ang pusa niya. Nag-me-meow lang pagkatapos niyang magsalita na para bang iyon ang sagot sa kanya.

Yelena took a shower when Zacariel texted her that he’s on his way home. Ganon palagi ang routine nila tuwing gabi. Doon siya sa penthouse kakain ng hapunan. Minsan, doon din siya natutulog. Babalik lang sa unit niya kapag papasok na sa trabaho ang kasintahan.

For that night, they decided to eat outside. Iniwan niya si Meadow na naglalaro sa sala at si Anita naman ay nanonood ng teleserye sa TV.

Wearing a dark brown satin cowl neck short dress and paired it with ankle strap sandals, she met Zacariel at the lobby. She also tied her wavy hair in a half-up high ponytail. And that emphasize her beautiful face.

He looked darkly handsome with his grey long sleeves polo that folded on his arms, khaki pants and leather shoes. His eyes were directly looking at her and it made her heart race just like that.

She waved her fingers cutely at him when she got out from the elevator.

His hand automatically went on her waist the moment she got near him. Then he crouched a bit to kiss her cheek.

“You looked stunning,” he whispered.

“Thank you. You looked handsome though.”

That made him chuckled.

Sigurado siya na sanay naman ito sa papuri ng ibang tao. At talaga rin naman na magandang lalaki ang Guerrera na ito.

They are inside his expensive black car when Santi texted her.

From: Santi The airlines that I was talking about is no longer open for a new trainee. I’m sorry, Yelena. Paano kaya ito?

She sighed. Napansin agad ’yon ni Zacariel kaya sinulyapan siya bago inilapag ang palad sa ibabaw ng hita niya.

The hem of her dress didn’t covered her thighs making her feel his warm callous palm on her skin.

“Is there something wrong?”

Yelena put back her iPhone inside her evening purse. Mamaya niya nalang kakausapin si Santi.

“Uh, Santi just informed me that the airlines that I was supposed to do my internship is no longer accepting a new trainee. Kailangan kong maghanap kung saan pwede ako.”

“We can ask for help. You know, Villamor Air?”

“Yeah. I know that. Hindi ba mahirap makakuha ng slot sa kanila? I heard, strict ang management.”

Villamor Air is an airline company that was first known to provide an exclusive and private flights. Their planes and choppers were mostly used by wealthy people who wanted a very convenient travel by air. Then they started to do commercial flights too. Kaya mas nakilala pa sa publiko at tuluyang lumago.

“We know the current CEO. I can talk to him to give you a slot.”

Namamangha siya sa paraan kung gaano kalawak ang koneksyon ng mga Guerrera pag dating sa mundo ng pagnenegosyo. Gano’n yata talaga ang mga negosyante. They need connection, resources and power to keep going.

“Really? S-sure! Sana mayroon pa.”

“No worries. I’ll let you know once I talked to the CEO.”

They entered inside Altaraza Hotel after a long while. Zacariel reserved them a table at the restaurant. The jazz music and the dimmed and candle lights made the ambiance romantic.

Yelena is aware that Zacariel noticed her lost of interest on visiting him on his work place. Hindi na nito kailangan magtanong kung bakit dahil alam na ang sagot.

They ordered their foods and the drinks were served first. They both having a glass of wine.

“Naisip kong ibalik si Meadow sa amin,” panimula niya.

Zacariel sipped on his wine without breaking their eye contact. Kagaya ng palagi niyang nararamdaman dito sa tuwing magkasama sila, ang makatitigan ito sa malapitan ay hindi lang nagpapamangha sa kanya ng husto, pati ang sana’y normal na pintig ng puso niya ay apektado rin.

“Aasikasuhin ko rin ang mga papers na kailangan para sa internship ko. I’ll be back here once I got the documents.”

Marahan itong tumango.

“You can still stay in condo while you’re doing your internship. You might want to bring more of your stuffs there.”

Yelena nodded her head slowly. She’s thankful that he provides her things that she needs whenever she’s away from home. Kaya hindi niya rin masyado inaalala ang tutulugan niya, ang pagkain, at kung anomang personal na kakailanganin dahil kusang loob nitong inaalay sa kanya ang mga ’yon.

Sa katunayan nga niyan, ibinigay sa kanya ni Zacariel ang isang card nito para may magamit siya kung sakaling gusto niyang kumain sa labas, o kung may gusto man siyang bilhin.

The good thing about her is, she doesn’t really taking advantage on what he gave her. Nahihiya rin kasi siya na bumili ng hindi niya naman talaga kailangan. Isa pa, binigyan din naman siyang ng allowance ng mommy niya at ng kuya Russo niya. She needs to save and she wants to also learn how to budget her allowance.

Paano kung mag asawa na sila ni Zacariel? Dapat kahit papano ay alam niya naman humawak ng pera. Pero naisip niya rin na… ayaw niyang siya ang mag manage ng pera nito. Parang malaking responsibilidad ’yon. Para sa kanya, mas makabubuti na si Zacariel nalang ang bahala na mamahala niyon. Hindi naman ’yon sa kanya. Hindi niya pinaghirapan. Hindi niya pinagpaguran na kitain.

Ang layo na nang narating ng pag-iisip niya. Ang kaharap niya naman ay nakatitig lang sa kanya. Na para bang kahit yata magdamag nitong gawin ’yon sa kanya, hindi man lang magsasawa.

It’s a beefsteak dinner date. They eat and talk casually.

“Kailan ang plano mo na bumalik sa inyo?” He asked before he took another sip of wine.

“This weekend?”

“Sumabay ka na sa ’kin. Uuwi ako sa hacienda.”

“Hanggang kailan ka do’n?”

“Babalik din ako dito Lunes ng maaga.”

“You gonna ride to a chopper?”

“Uh-huh.”

Just recently, she discovered that Guerreras purchased their own private chopper. Their huge land even have an airstrip and also a helipad. Gano’n kalawak ang lupain ng mga ito. Not to mention their 800 hectare coconut plantation!

Siya ngang lumaki sa malawak na lupain at kilala ang pamilya Guerrera na gano’n nga ang estado ng mga lupain, ay nalulula pa rin. Paano pa kaya ang ibang tao?

“Do you always use a chopper to go back and forth to Manila?”

“Not always. If I have time, I travel by land.”

“How ’bout your siblings? They use chopper too if they want to go here?”

Zacariel shook his head. “Zakia and Zalanna likes to travel by land. Silang dalawa lang naman ang madalas dito sa Manila.”

Sabagay, Zarick is busy on their dairy farm in hacienda. And at the same time he’s the one in charge to run the coconut plantation there.

While at this moment, Zacarias is in Manila. Hindi lang sila nagtatagpo pa at hindi niya rin alam kung bakit. Siguro ay abala.

And compared to his two brothers, Zacariel is the one who didn’t really stay in Hacienda Guerrera. Kaya siguro, imbes na si Zarick ang dapat na mamahala sa opisina sa Maynila, ito na lang? Gano’n kaya talaga ang nangyari? Now, she’s curious like a cat.

The dessert was served after a long while. She have her banana flambe with vanilla ice cream. Zacariel just have another glass of wine.

Yelena tasted it and smiled. Then she scoop enough amount and put the spoon on his mouth. Wala itong nagawa kundi ibuka ang bibig at tanggapin ang inihandog niya.

“Noong umalis sa GCP si kuya Zacarias, inaasahan mo ba na ikaw ang papalit sa kanya?”

He nodded his head. He’s that confident that he’s the one who gonna run their business though. At sino bang hindi magiging kampante? Kung sa una palang ay alam na nito na isa ito sa hahawak ng negosyo ng pamilya nila?

“Kuya Zarick hates Manila. He’d rather stay in hacienda than be here. Kaya alam kong, ako talaga ang mapupunta rito kahit noon pa man.”

“Mahilig pala siya sa mga baka…” nasabi niya, tapos ay muling dinala sa labi ang spoon na may ice cream. “…kaya siguro mas pinili niyang pamahalaan ang dairy farm ninyo.”

Sinundan ng mga mata nito ang ginawa niya. Then his brow shot up when she licked her lower lip.

“Hindi naman ang mga baka ang dahilan ni kuya kaya pinili niyang manatili sa hacienda,” he chuckled.

Dahil sa sinabi nito, nagkaroon tuloy siya ng ideya.

Living near their dairy farm is Ataliana. The two has a relationship now. That made sense.

“I know right. Kaya ayaw na talaga dito ni kuya Zarick dahil nasa dairy farm si Ataliana.”

Natawa lang ulit ang kasintahan niya na para bang kukutsain ang kapatid kung naroon lang at kasama nila.

“Paano kung ako naman ang manatili sa hacienda, pipiliin mo bang mag stay din do’n? O dito ka talaga magtatrabaho?”

“Masuwerte ako dahil hindi gano’n ang sitwasyon natin, Yelena. But if that’s our case, I’d surely stay wherever you are so that I could be with you all the time.”

That put a smile on her lips. She could almost feel the butterflies on her stomach.

Napainom siya ng malamig na tubig para lang itago pansamantala ang ngisi na gustong kumawala sa kanyang labi.

After they ate, she went to the restroom to retouch. While Zacariel is paying their bills.

Pagkalabas niya, hindi niya inaasahan ang lalaking nakasandal sa pader ng hallway.

Khalid Fonseca on his tux, is looking directly at her.

Inalis nito ang mga kamay sa may bulsa at umayos sa pagkakatayo nang makita siya.

Yelena don’t really know what to feel. Matagal na panahon na silang hindi nagkita. Pero maayos ang ala-ala na naiwan nila sa isa’t-isa.

“Khalid,” she muttered and hurriedly went to him.

“Yelena,” the smile on his tone was heard.

Mabilis niya itong niyakap. Naramdaman niya bigla ang pagkamiss sa dating kaibigan.

Khalid’s patted her back after he hugged her back.

“How are you? I haven’t heard from you for a long time. I am surprised to see you here, Khalid.”

They kept their little distance. He really changed a lot. From his face to his physique. He matured too. His beard is trimmed properly. But there’s a different feeling on his eyes… she couldn’t explain.

“I just got back from States. I really liked to see you. To talk to you, Yelena.”

Ano ba ang pag-uusapan nila? Tungkol kaya sa naudlot na sana ay pagpapakasal nila?

“But maybe some other time. I saw you with Zacariel.”

Nilingon niya ang restaurant kung nasaan niya iniwan ang boyfriend niya. Hindi naman din niya matanaw talaga dahil malayo ng kaunti sa hallway kung nasaan sila.

“Uh, yes. Pauwi na rin kami.”

“How ’bout I get your number?”

Walang pag-a-alinlangan na ibinigay niya ang numero kay Khalid. Pakiramdam niya ay kailangan din nilang pag-usapan ang tungkol nga na sana ay pagpapakasal nila. Gusto niyang bigyan ito ng kalinawan kung bakit imbes na rito, ay kay Zacariel na siya napunta.

“Text me, okay?” She told him.

Khalid nods his head. Then sighed. “I will.”

“I’d like to talk to you too. Let’s catch up soon.”

A small smile formed his lips. “You are so beautiful, Yelena.”

Pabiro siyang umirap sa papuri nito. “Thank you, Khalid. I really need to go.”

Kumaway siya rito habang naglalakad palayo. Naabutan niya si Zacariel sa lamesa nila na handa nang umalis. Hinihintay lang din siya.

“What took you so long?” His eyes went to where she came from.

Medyo kinabahan siya at hindi niya mawari kung bakit.

Sasabihin niya ba rito na nakita niya si Khalid? O ililihim niya nalang muna? At bakit siya maglilihim? Hindi ba at gusto niya ay tapat sila sa isa’t isa?

“Uh, just bumped into an old friend.”

“An old friend?”

Iniwas niya ang tingin dito. “Yes. Shall we go?”

For a moment, Zacariel stared at her. That she needed to fake a damn smile so that he won’t doubt her that she’s hiding something from him.

Kalaunan, umalis sila sa restaurant. Habang nasa loob ng sasakyan, narinig niya ang pag beep ng iPhone niya. Sa ideyang baka ang mommy niya ’yon o si Santi, kinuha niya ’yon para kumpirmahin.

From: Unregistered Number

Khalid.

When she felt Zacariel’s quick glance on her iPhone, she turned the screen off. Then put it back on her purse.

He placed his palm on her thigh.

“Do you wanna stay with me tonight?”

“Sure.” She smiled, thinking that they would end up moaning on his bed again.

“Did you take your pills regularly?”

Umiling siya. She missed some days… and she thinks it’s fine. Dahil hindi rin naman palagi na may nangyayari sa kanila ni Zacariel. At nararamdaman niya rin naman na hindi nito sa kanya inilalalabas ang likido ng kaluguran pagkatapos nilang magtalik.

“Hindi naman araw-araw o gabi-gabi na may nangyayari sa ’tin, Zacariel. Ayos lang siguro na hindi ko palagi naiinom ang pills ko?”

Halos marinig niya ang pagbuntonghininga nito. He squeezed her leg gently.

“Well, thank you for letting me know that you don’t take your pills everyday. I need to be very careful then.”

“Hindi naman siguro ako mabubuntis agad?”

He clenched his jaw while his eyes is on the busy road in front of them. His one hand on the steering wheel is just so good in the eyes. Para bang kahit nakapatong lang ’yon doon, ay nagbibigay na ng init sa pagitan ng kanyang mga hita. Kakaiba. Nakakaloka ang nararamdaman niyang ’yon.

“Right? Hindi mo naman sasadyain na buntisin ako? Because you know I still need to do my internship, finish college, then study fashion design.”

“Yeah,” his voice was raspy.

“Also, it’s better to have a baby after we get married. What do you think?”

Hinaplos nito ang hita niya. Para siyang napapaso… halos maramdaman niya ang init sa haplos na ’yon.

“I think that’s a good idea.”

“My parents won’t force us to have a baby. And I think your parents is the same. Besides, baka mauna nang magka-baby ang mga kapatid mo. Kaya… paunahin nalang natin sila.”

Natawa ito ng bahagya. Tapos ay sinulyapan siya. Naaaliw sa kanya.

Hindi niya sigurado kung ano ang nakakatawa sa sinabi niya. Seryoso naman siya. But hearing him laugh because of her made her smile. At least, he can make him happy.

“I honestly don’t think about having a baby for now. All I want is to marry you, Yelena.”

Her heart pounded and swear, if there’s no mellow music inside his car, they might hear every damn beat of it.

“I imagine you wearing your wedding gown, down the aisle… smiling at me… while walking towards me…” he muttered gently.

At habang sinasabi nito ang mga larawan niya sa isip nito, ay gano’n na gano’n din ang gumuguhit sa isip niya. Para bang pangarap ’yon na matutupad anomang sandali.

24 ~ CHAINS

Hello readers & grainners!

After a long time, I finally get back my drive to continue this story. While I was reading this, I realized that I can no longer connect the plot to its title so I decided to change it.

“

Chain

of Temptation

“ is now the title of Yelena & Zacariel’s story.

Anyway, pls don’t be surprise if I have started to use first-person POV here. I was exploring my talent in writing, so far I am loving this style. I have upcoming stories that I will be posting here in Wattpad with first-person POV as well.

Your patience means so much to me. Thank you for staying!

CHAPTER TWENTY FOUR

I scheduled a meeting with Khalid before I go back to Casa Alta. I just wanna take this chance while both of us are here in Manila right now. I don’t know when I could see him again. So, I think this is the best time for that. Also, I want to talk about our cancelled arranged-marriage.

Though, I felt relieved that we are not gonna marry each other by force, I have this feeling that I need to let him know that we shouldn’t allow our parents to decide for us. Kung hindi naman talaga namin gusto ang mapapang asawa namin, dapat ay tumayo kami sa aming mga paa at manindigan.

I am lucky because I like the man I will marry now, my Zacariel Guerrera. Possibly, I have fallen in love with him already.

I also wanted to know Khalid’s thoughts about this arranged-marriage. As I remember, Fonsecas are not into this kind of a very old tradition. Interesado rin akong malaman kung ano na kaya ang pag uusap nila tungkol sa mga proyekto na hindi na matutuloy dahil sa iba na ako magpapakasal?

I arrived first in the restaurant of a five star hotel. We’ll be having lunch together. I ordered juice to start with. Khalid is near. Any moment, he will be here.

Yelena:

I will be having lunch with a long time friend. What time do you think you can go back home?

Hindi naman ako naglilihim kay Zacariel. But I feel like this kind of meeting with Khalid is meant to be personal. After all, our supposed marriage was cancelled. Gusto ko na kahit papano, magkaroon kami ng maayos na pag uusap tungkol sa bagay na ito. This is important to me. I wanna make sure I don’t hurt other people’s feelings. Ayokong maging masaya, habang ang iba ay nasasaktan dahil sa kasiyahan na mayroon ako.

But what if, Khalid wants me? What would I do?

Of course, I will tell him that Zacariel is the one I want to marry. Ever since. That’s how crazy I am over him. Pakiramdam ko nga, sa sobrang pag iisip ko na siya sana ang mapakasalan ko, nagkatotoo tuloy. I subconsciously manifested so hard for my illusion to become my reality. And it’s happening now…

I waved at Khalid with a smile when I saw him walking in the restaurant. He gave me a small smile and made his way to our table. I stood up to kiss his cheek—like what I do when I see a friend and a family members.

“It had been a very long time, Khalid. I am surprised to see you again.”

“Yeah. Was busy in States. But now, I am back to run our family businesses.”

Tumitig ako sa kanya. Naalala ko na palagi silang bumibisita sa Casa Alta noon tapos ay maglalaro kami. Kaya marahil magaan pa rin ang loob ko sa kanya kahit matagal kaming hindi nagkita at walang komunikasyon. Ilang taon lang din ang tanda niya sa akin.

Dumating ang waiter at kinuha ang order namin. I will have a light lunch. I ordered greek salad and crab roll.

“So, what’s up with you?” I asked, a bit interested about his life now.

“Keeping up with the responsibilities. How about you?”

“I am with Zacariel. We are bound to marry.” I intentionally informed him.

Khalid nods his head like he understands what’s going on. I appreciate him being considerate despite the fact that he was supposed to be the one I would marry.

“The sudden changes of your groom has caused a rift to our families’ relationship, Yelena.”

I feel genuinely sorry for what happened. I had no idea that it was Khalid who they chose for me. I didn’t mean to ruin Altamonte and Fonseca’s relationship. But I have made my decision and I won’t change it just because I caused trouble to somebody else.

Honestly, it was my parents and grandfather’s fault that’s why they are facing these difficulties. If they had only allowed me to choose who I wanna marry from the very beginning, this wouldn’t happen, right? So I think, my family is the one who is responsible to fixed this issue.

“Well, Khalid, I don’t wanna be in unhappy marriage. I am sure, you will do the same. Right?”

“Yelena, we can make things right…” he said, a bit frustrated.

Nagsasalubong na rin ang mga kilay niya. I just realized now that he’s also affected why our families are in chaos.

“It’s too late, Khalid. I have made a promise to Zacariel. That won’t change just because our families are not in good terms.”

Hindi siya nakapagsalita agad. Tumitig lang siya sa akin. Malalim siguro siyang nag iisip. Naiintindihan ko ang pagkabigo niyang ito dahil alam kong siya ang unang tinamaan nang biglang pagbabago ng desisyon ng aking pamilya.

Pero, gusto niya bang matali sa isang babae na hindi niya naman mahal? Wala ba siyang girlfriend? Dahil kung mayroon, siguradong hindi rin siya papayag na magpakasal sa akin. Unless, he marries for business.

Something that… Guerreras won’t do.

But, why the hell Zacariel wants to marry me?

My forehead knotted. If Guerreras don’t marry for business, then… does it mean, Zacariel genuinely love me? That’s why he’s marrying me?

I am suddenly confused and thrilled. Did we talk about this? Me and Zacariel? The reason why he’s marrying me? Hindi niya naman sinabi sa akin na mahal niya ako. Gano’n din ako sa kanya. Ibig bang sabihin kaya niya ako pakakasalan ay dahil… naaawa siya sa akin? Dahil alam niya na ayokong magpakasal sa ibang lalaki. Pero sa kanya? Ayos lang sa akin?

What if… Zacariel just wants to marry me because he’s too soft hearted that he couldn’t afford to witness a girl marrying a man that she doesn’t love? That he cannot stomach seeing me being unhappy? Because he cares for me?

I shook my head. No. Of course, he choses to marry because he truly likes me! That’s it!

Bakit ko ba pinagdududahan ang intensyon sa akin ni Zacariel? Hindi ba at nag usap na kami tungkol sa mga plano namin sa hinaharap? Then, why am I doubting him?

This is not right. I felt like… I am not true to him. I shouldn’t think this way. I shouldn’t feel this.

“Do you like him?” Khalid asked seriously.

I took a deep breath. I need to clear my mind right now. I came here to talk to him and not to doubt Zacariel. I am so stupid for this.

“I do like him. I like him ever since… until now…”

“Guerreras don’t marry for business. So I guess, he likes you too?”

I smiled confidently. “Of course. He likes me back.”

Pero sa totoo lang, ngayon lang yata talaga ako nagustuhan ni Zacariel. Dahil dati, nakababatang kapatid lang naman ang turing niya sa akin. But, maybe I was wrong. He already liked me back then. I was just a minor, that’s why he didn’t pursue me. And when I turned eighteen, he came back to make things right between us.

I should always keep in mind that Zacariel only rejected me before because I was a minor… I was too young. He didn’t reject me because he didn’t like me. He rejected me because that’s the right thing to do.

“He was my parents first choice. But he rejected the offer…”

Khalid’s emotions held with confusion. “What do you mean by that?”

Dumating ang waiter para ilapag ang order namin. I sipped on my juice as I waited for the waiter to finish and leave. I am not very hungry but I should eat. After this, I will go back to my condo and pack my things.

“I was seventeen when he got the offer to marry me. He didn’t like the idea. So… he waited until I turned eighteen and pursued me.”

“And by the time he pursued you, our families were dealing with our supposed ties, Yelena.”

“I wonder why you accepted my parents and grandfather’s offer to get involved in arranged-marriage?”

Then he sips on his champagne.

I chew my greek salad while waiting for him to answer my question. I am curious. Like I said, I wanna hear his thoughts about this.

“It’s to strengthen family ties and businesses. And I accepted the offer to marry you because I knew you.”

I shrugged my shoulders. “I am not the same girl that you used to know, Khalid. I have changed.”

“You are still the same girl I used to admire when we were a kid.”

“Well, I am not a kid anymore. Like I said, I came here to see you and hear your thoughts. I don’t want us to have a complicated relationship just because our families were facing a conflict now. Let them deal with the mess they’ve made.”

“You cannot tell me not to get involved with this mess, Yelena. I am in a brink of losing everything that I have worked for… just because of your decision.” He suddenly blamed me and I didn’t like his tone.

I put down the utensils and stared at him with calmness. I didn’t want us to end this meeting with hard feelings.

“Khalid, wala ka bang girlfriend?”

“I broke up with her because of you.”

My eyebrows creased. Did he just blame me again? For his break ups?

“Then go back to her. Fix things. I am sure, she would understand you if she truly loved you.”

“That’s not how it works. She knew that I am bound to marry someone else. It’s not easy to fix a relationship that ended in chaos.”

Problema niya na ’to. Ayoko na sanang makialam. Ang dami ko na ngang iniisip, idadagdag ko pa ba ’to? Hindi lang naman silang dalawa ang nabasag. Ako rin naman, dati. Pero nagawa kong ayusin. Kung mahal nila ang isa’t isa, patatawarin nila kung sino ang nagkamali. They can continue their relationship instead of ending it. Only if, they truly loved each other. Kung hindi naman, mas mabuti pang itigil na ng tuluyan.

“You can fix it, Khalid. Sabihin mo, hindi na matutuloy ang kasal natin.”

Khalid just stared at me.

“Everything can be fixed through a good communication.” I muttered simply.

“Easy for you to say because you were not in my position, Yelena.”

“Do you think I can help you? I can talk to her and explain?”

Khalid shook his head. “She won’t listen.”

Kung gano’n, wala na akong magagawa pa. Mahirap makipag usap sa isang taong sarado ang mga tenga para makinig. They won’t listen. I would just waste my time and effort. Gusto ko man tulungan si Khalid sa problema niya sa ex-girlfriend niya, pero malabo na.

“When are you going back to Casa Alta?” He asked after a long while.

I am almost done with my lunch. Handa na rin akong tapusin ang usapan namin para makauwi na ako sa condo.

“Soon. But I will be back here for my internship.”

“Can I see you again?” There’s hope in his tone.

I gave him a warm smile. Though we have some conflicts with our families, but Khalid and I can remain friends.

“Sure! Let’s keep in touch.”

I had a goot meeting with Khalid. Gumaan din ang pakiramdam ko dahil kahit papano nagkaroon kami ng malinaw na pag uusap. Naramdaman ko naman na hindi masama ang loob niya sa nangyari sa dapat na pagpapakasal namin. I am glad he accepted that I choose Zacariel over him.

Kung may mas mabigat man na problema si Khalid, ’yon siguro ay ang relasyon niya sa dating kasintahan niya. I am hoping that they can fix what’s broken between them.

I am texting with Santi while I’m laying on my bed. I am about to take a nap, but he has sent me a message.

Santi:

Oh, did you tell Zacariel that you met Khalid?

I winced. Hindi ko sinabi sa kanya pero nagpaalam naman ako na makikipagkita sa isang dating kaibigan. He just told me to let him know once I’m back in my condo. He’s too matured that he didn’t give so much damn whoever I met. Kahit siguro malaman niya na si Khalid ang kinita ko, malamang, wala rin siyang masyadong magiging reaksyon.

I smiled when I realized that Zacariel probably trust me. I won’t break his trust.

Yelena:

I didn’t tell him it was Khalid. Should I tell him?

Santi:

Why you didn’t tell him? And for me, I think, you should tell him that you talked to Khalid.

I rolled on my bed.

Yelena:

I don’t think he needs to know. Besides, it’s just a friendly meet. Nag usap kami tungkol sa naudlot na kasal sana namin. May girlfriend pala siya. Nag break sila dahil sa akin.

Hindi na kinaya ng kaibigan ko ang kwentuhan sa palitan ng text messages lang, kaya nag video call na siya. I answered it quickly.

“Ibig sabihin, may girlfriend pala siya. Paano na ’yan? Pwede naman silang magbalikan dahil hindi naman kayo magpapakasal…” Santi said while playing with his lips using his fingers.

“I told him that I can talk to his ex-girlfriend to explain. He said, she won’t listen.”

Santi is outside though. He’s in a golf court. He just done playing.

“Bakit naman hindi? If she loved him, she will fix their relationship. Besides, like what we said, hindi na matutuloy ang kasal niyo. Wala ng hadlang sa relasyon nila.”

I sighed. Gusto ko tuloy mainis sa ex-girlfriend ni Khalid.

“I feel guilty tuloy. Because of me they broke up. I saw that it affected Khalid. If only I know the girl, I’d talk to her…”

“Don’t cross that line, Yelena. Huwag kang gumawa ng problema. Let them fix what’s broken. I suggest you, focus with your relationship with Zacariel. You need to be honest to him.”

“Thanks, Santi. Yeah, I will tell him nalang that I met Khalid. This won’t be a problem, I know, hindi naman seloso ang boyfriend ko. Pero tama ka, kailangan niyang malaman na nagkita kami ni Khalid. Kasi baka ano pa ang isipin niya.”

“Kahit na nagtitiwala sa ’yo si Zacariel. Mas mabuti pa rin na palagi kang maging tapat sa kanya, Yelena. Lalo pa at magiging mag asawa na kayo. Teka lang, I am curious. Di ba, you slept with him. Ibig sabihin…. nag sex na kayo?” Impit siyang tumili habang takip ang bibig.

Uminit ang buong mukha ko na tila ba sinabuyan ng apoy.

“Hindi ka na virgin, Yelena? Ano? Masakit ba o masarap?” Patuloy niya habang na-e-eskandalo ang sarili niya.

“Masakit no’ng unang beses—” I paused because he screamed again in a controlled way.

Santi even fanned himself using his hand. “I can’t believe we are talking about your sex life!”

“Well, you were the one who open the topic, remember. I am supposed to keep this matter as private as possible. But my best friend was curious like a cat…” I smirked.

“Hindi ka na talaga makakaalis kay Zacariel. Nakatali ka na sa kanya nang hindi mo namamalayan!”

It made me think how I am suddenly tied to Zacariel when in fact, he broke my heart last year. Now, I am healed, also because of him. Kung sino ang nagwasak sa puso ko, siya rin pala ang maghihilom nito.

“I think, it’s the other way around. Zacariel Guerrera is now tied to me without him realizing it yet. I am like a chain that wrapped around him… a chain that imprison him while I continue to tempt him… I won’t stop not until I have him completely.” I said that like I was spelling a curse towards the man I’ve always dreamed to marry.

25 ~ DREAMS

CHAPTER TWENTY FIVE

On Zacariel’s last day in Hacienda Guerrera, we have decided to visit Querencia. It had been more than a year since the last time I went here. I can say that nothing really change. The ambiance still gives me serenity. The waterfalls remained majestic. The breeze and the chirping of the birds were like a touch of calmness. And the cabana stayed as our little secret home.

Naalala ko pa dati ang mga pinagsaluhan namin ni Zacariel sa Querencia. Those passionate kisses, feverish caresses, and sweet taste of pleasure. Everything that we shared together inked in my mind permanently like a tattoo.

Kaya paano ko nga ba siya makakalimutan? Kung halos lahat ng una ko, siya ang kasama ko? Siya ang nagparamdam sa akin.

Siya ang dahilan kung bakit natutong magmahal ang puso ko kahit pa palihim lang. Siya rin ang rason kung bakit nawasak ito. At nakakamanghang isipin na siya pa rin ang dahilan bakit muli itong nabuo. It was always him. It will always be him.

Niyakap niya ako mula sa gilid. The water leveled my lower chest. It is cold enough to make me trembled a bit. But because of Zacariel’s body, I feel warm. I am wearing my green two piece bikini. I could see how the color perfectly combined with the greenish water from the falls. Kagaya ng mga luntiang puno na nakapalibot sa amin. Tila kami nasa isang paraiso na itinadhana para sa amin. Sa amin ang sagradong lugar na ito.

Hinalikan ni Zacariel ang aking balikat kaya ako napangiti.

“Now, tell me who’s that long time friend of yours…” his voice was taken away by the sounds of the waterfalls in front of us.

“Khalid…”

It made him paused for a moment. Ang magaspang na palad niya sa aking tiyan ay umakyat sa ilalim ng aking dibdib. I like the way we are physically close. I get use to his warm. I am amazed about the comfort that he made me feel.

“Siya rin ’yong kaibigan na nakita ko no’ng nasa restaurant tayo. I felt like I need to talk to him. Kaya nagkita kami.”

“And?”

Tumigil siya sa paghalik sa aking balikat. Hindi na rin gumagalaw ang palad niya para haplusin ako.

“Pinag usapan namin ang tungkol sa hindi na matutuloy na kasal namin. I told him that I choose you and you’re the one I will marry. Ang sabi niya, naghiwalay sila ng girlfriend niya dahil sa akin. I felt guilty, but what can I do, di ba? Besides, they can always fix their relationship. Dahil hindi na naman tuloy ang kasal namin.”

“What else?” His voice was cold as the water.

I secretly took a deep breath. Why do I feel like he was not happy with this? Mabuti nga at sinasabi ko sa kanya ngayon. Hindi ko na tuluyang inilihim sa kanya. Ayokong pag awayan namin ito.

Kumunot ang noo ko nang humiwalay ng bahagya sa akin si Zacariel. I looked at him with confusion. Naglakad siya papunta sa malaking bato at sumandal doon habang nakatitig sa akin. Madilim ang mga mata niya. I can’t really read his emotions.

His light wavy hair is now wet, a little bit messy but the style only added to his masculinity. His physique has changed. Mas matipuno na siya. His chest is broad, his flat stomach is rift, and his biceps were hard to ignore.

I think, the reason why I easily get turn on is because he has the body that made me aroused. Hindi lang sa mga halik at haplos niya ako nasasabik, pati na rin sa katawan niya.

Pero ayokong magptalo sa kanya sa ganitong bagay. I am beautiful and I have curves. My skin is flawless and creamy like milk. He cannot just resist me. Kung kaya niya talaga akong tanggihan, eh, di sana, hindi kami magkasama ngayon. Hindi niya sana ako pakakasalan.

I smiled inwardly. I am confident that Zacariel Guerrera is now in my hands. I can see clear images of my future with him. I didn’t want to ruin those pictures I painted in my head. I shouldn’t mess our relationship. Dapat ay pangalagaan ko ng husto ang mayroon kami ngayon. Pagtibayin at pahabain.

Namungay ang mga mata ko nang maisip na boyfriend ko siya. Sa tagal kong naghintay sa kanya, ngayon ko lang tunay na natatanto na… akin siya. May karapatan ako sa kanya.

I slowly walked closer to him. I can feel my heart thumping as he watched me like a hawk to his prey. His lips were in thin line. I want those lips… I wanna kiss him.

“Zacariel…” malambing na tawag ko sabay hawak sa kamay niya.

Lumalim ng bahagya ang gitla sa kanyang noo. Tila siya nahihirapan na kontrolün ang anomang pumipigil sa kanyang manatiling kalmado.

“Baby…” my soft voice was faded because of the sounds of the waterfalls.

Kitang-kita ko ang pag igting ng panga niya. Ang dilim ng titig niya sa akin ay nahalinhinan ng iritasyon at pagkabigo.

“I am sorry I kept that from you. Akala ko, hindi ko na dapat pang sabihin sa ’yo ang pagkikita namin. Then I realized, I shouldn’t keep things from now on. Lalo na at magiging mag asawa na tayo…”

His gaze sharpened and I don’t know why I found this amusing.

I had to bite the inside of my cheek to suppress my damn grin. Baka nababaliw na ako? Bakit ako natutuwa ngayon na nakikita siyang tila nagagalit?

“Di ba, kapag mag asawa na, hindi na dapat maglihim sa isa’t isa? Kaya… simula ngayon, sasabihin ko na sa ’yo ang lahat nang gagawin o mga plano ko sa buhay,” lumapit pa ako sa kanya.

Our toes almost touched. I could hear the wild beating of my heart. I feel thrilled and anxious at the same time. Natutuwa rin ako habang pinapanood ang pagiging suplado niya sa akin.

I lifted my other hand to caress his chest. His jaw tightened. The stubbles became more define. He’s darkly masculine. Siya talaga ang tipo ko. Hindi na ito magbabago.

Tila ko siya inaakit at marahan na tinutukso sa paraan kung paano ko haplusin ang dibdib niya. His chest matted with thin hair. This used to be my pillow… like my favorite sanctuary.

“Hindi na ako maglilihim sa asawa ko…” malambing kong sambit.

He took a deep breath. Suplado pa rin siya at halatang iritado. Ngunit hindi ko magawang magalit sa reaksyon niya. Imbes, lihim pa akong natutuwa. Hindi siya palaging ganito sa akin. I am amazed to know that he has this side.

“Don’t hide things from your wife, okay?” I squeezed his hand gently to urge him to speak.

He leered at me. Which made me pursed my lips.

Hindi ko na yata mapipigilan ang ngiti ko. Unti-unti na itong sumusugat sa aking labi.

“This ain’t funny, Yelena.” He muttered roughly.

Ngumuso ako dahil talagang nangingiti na. Lumapit pa ako sa kanya lalo. Gusto na siyang yakapin pero pinigil ko ang sarili ko. My chest pressed his. Napalunok siya sa mapangahas na paglalapit ng aming katawan.

I can see my cleavage and thin veins on my boobs. I think, I am really seducing him… tempting him… and through this, I could take away the bitter feeling inside of him.

“Bakit? Mag asawa naman talaga tayo, ha?” I said and caresses his jaw.

He titled his head a bit, he’s now taunting me. May pagbabanta sa mga mata niya ngunit hindi ko talaga magawang masindak.

“Hindi ba?” I raised my eyebrow. “Hindi ba kita asawa?”

Muling nag isang linya ang labi niya. Nanatili ang paghahamon sa mga mata niya.

“Para sa akin… asawa na kita, Zacariel…”

Tumingala siya ng bahagya at masakit na ipinikit ang mga mata. Kinagat niya ang pang ibabang labi na animo galit na pinipigilan ang pagka aliw sa kung ano.

“Tapos hindi mo pala ako itinuturing na asawa mo…” pinalungkot ko ang boses ko.

I gasped when he suddenly pulled my waist closer to him, making my chest pressed against his more… making me feel his stomach on my abdomen. He then angled his head and frustratingly buried his face on my neck.

“Asawa kita…” napapaos na bulong niya.

Sumugat ng matindi ang ngiti sa aking labi. Ang mabilis na pintig ng puso ko ay hindi magkandamayaw. Nag uunahan ang mga ito, tila ba nagpapaligsahan.

Gusto kong maiyak sa saya na nararamdaman ko. Namumuo ang luha sa gilid ng aking mga mata. I stroke his muscled back with my soft palm.

“Asawa mo naman talaga ako,” I whispered with solace on my voice. “Hindi pa tayo kasal pero asawa na ang gusto kong ituring sa ’yo. Gano’n ka rin dapat sa akin…”

“Tang ina,” nahihirapan niyang daing.

The water is cold but I feel like my cheeks is burning. Nangangapal sa init ang aking batok. Hindi ko mawari kung bakit animo nalulusaw ako na malaman na nahihirapan siya sa kung ano. Ang galing niya mag kontrol ng emosyon niya.

I am intrigued how he mastered this kind of control… I can tell it wasn’t easy. Dahil para sa akin, ang hirap pigilan ang alpas ng aking mga damdamin. Lalo na kung ang lahat ng ’yon ay siya ang dahilan.

Hinapit niya pa ako lalo palapit sa kanya. Halos maipit na ang dibdib ko ngunit hindi ako magrereklamo. I always liked being physically close him. I think, I am clingy and touchy. Kapag kaming dalawa lang talaga, palagi akong nakadikit sa kanya na parang linta. Mabuti nalang at mukhang nasasanay na si Zacariel na ganito ako.

“Kung masyado akong mabilis para ituring na asawa kita, sabihin mo lang sa ’kin. So I can adjust the way I think or treat you…”

“No, I like it that way. Keep it that way,” his voice was hoarsely.

I silent took a breath again. His minty breath on my neck tickled me and aroused me at the same damn time. Ako itong dapat na manunukso sa kanya, ngunit ako pa itong nauunang matupok ng apoy.

I know I am unbelievable. I am just eighteen and yet I think about him being my husband! Ganito ba talaga ako kahibang pagdating sa kanya? O ganito lang siguro ang paraan ko para mas lalo siyang malapit sa akin? Sa paraan na ito, tuluyan na ba siyang mahuhulog sa tila patibong ko?

Yes, I have dreams that I want to achieve. And I guess, one of those dreams is to have Zacariel Guerrera to marry me. I’ve been thinking of this for years, even if I was still a minor, I’ve been dreaming to marry him when the right time comes. And despite having my heart broken because of his rejection, still, at the depth of my soul, I hoped that maybe there’s another chance for us… that maybe one day, he’d realize that I am the one he wants to marry.

“Hindi ba masyadong maaga? Am I being aggressive?” I pouted my lips slightly.

Hinaplos ko ulit ang likod niya. He works out enough that the muscles on his back became solid.

“If this make you comfortable, I think, it’s fine.”

“But I am not aggressive?”

“A little bit,” he chuckled.

Nanliit ang mga mata ko habang dinadama ang init na kumakalat sa aking mukha. Agresibo nga talaga ako. Because even if I am just eighteen, yet I thought about him being my husband already!

“I hope my aggressiveness didn’t turn you off…”

“I got use to it.”

Gusto ko nang itago ang mukha ko sa balikat niya. Ngayon ko nararamdaman ang hiya dahil sa mga pinagsasasabi ko sa kanya!

Ang bata bata ko pa, pero pag aasawa na ang inaatupag ko? Hindi ba pwedeng maghunos dili muna ako? Talagang ako pa ang nagbukas ng topic na ito. Baka magulat nalang ako isang araw, magsawa siya sa akin dahil masyado akong agresibo at ambisyosa rin!

I leered. Di ba, ito naman talaga ang gusto ko dati pa? Bakit ko pa itatago sa kanya ang mga iniisip ko? Ang tagal kong kinimkim ang mga ito. Nakakapagod din dalhin araw-araw. Ngayon na may pagkakataon na akong palayain ang mga damdamin ko, pakakawalan ko na.

“Huwag kang magsasawa agad sa ’kin, Zacariel. Mahabang taon mo pa akong makakasama.”

Dinampian niya ng halik ang aking leeg. His simple kiss is electrifying… it was something so familiar and sensual.

“Handa ako sa ’yo, Yelena…”

“Hindi ka magsasawa?”

“Hindi.”

“Talaga?”

“I won’t get tired of you. I know that my words won’t prove it, but time will.”

Marahan akong naglabas ng hangin sa aking labi. Bumibilis ang tibok ng puso ko—daig ko pa ang tumakbo ng ilang kilometro. I just hope that he won’t felt my heartbeat against his chest. That would be embarrassing. Alam niya kaya na gustung-gusto ko siya? Halata ba sa akin?

“Hindi rin siguro ako mapapagod sa ’yo o magsasawa na kasama ka. Kung pwede lang na araw-araw tayong magkasama, gagawin ko talaga.”

“It will only possible once we live in one roof. I hope you have enough patience to wait for that day.”

“I am patient!” agap ko. “And I can wait for that day. Naiintindihan ko naman kung bakit hindi pa tayo pwedeng magsama sa iisang bahay. Hindi pa tayo kasal. But once we get married, then, we have all the rights to be together.”

Hindi naman talaga ako nagmamadali na maikasal kami. Gusto ko lang masigurado na siya talaga ang pakakasalan ko. Ngayon na alam ko na na gusto niya akong pakasalan, mas kampante na ako na ipagpatuloy ang mga pangarap ko. I know, Zacariel will support me.

“First, I will finish my internship, get my diploma, pursue fashion design, then maybe build my own boutique. That’s my plans…” I said merrily.

Zacariel nods his head. “And I will support you with all your dreams.”

Gumuhit ang ngiti sa labi ko. That’s why I admired him so much. Ever since, I know he will always support me. Palagi niyang ipinaparamdam sa akin kahit dati pa, na kakampi ko siya… na susuportahan niya ako palagi. Gano’n din ang gusto kong gawin sa kanya.

Even though I am not comfortable to know that he’s working with women, I will just stay positive and understanding. I won’t be a toxic girlfriend. If he supports me, then, I will do the same to him.

“We won’t have our baby yet…” malamyos ang boses ko.

“Yeah,” he agrees which made me feel relieve.

I may be aggressive and ready to marry him, but I am not ready to have a baby. Alam ko kung gaano kabigat na responsibilidad ang magkaroon ng anak. Kaya hindi ko muna ito uunahin.

“I don’t need one yet. I already have my baby with me.” He whispered huskily, then kissed my shoulder as he hugged me tighter.

26 ~ SHOT (SPG)

CHAPTER TWENTY SIX

While laying on my side, Zacariel was spooning me from behind. My skin is so warm, my moans echoed again as he sensually thrusts inside of me. He’s so thick and erect, he filled me so good, I felt like I am already at the top of it all.

His heavy arm is wrapped around my waist—keeping me so close to him. While the other one is under my head, served as my pillow. Habang hinahalikan niya ang batok at balikat ko, marahan ngunit malalim niya rin akong inaangkin. Hindi siya nagmamadali ngayon. Mas pinili niyang damhin namin pareho ang ligaya ngayon ng aming pag iisa.

The wind blew the sheer white curtain of the cabana. I can see the waterfalls outside—like it was the only witness of our passionate and sweet stolen moments. Ang talon ang nakasaksi nang lahat ng pinagsaluhan namin ni Zacariel dito sa Querencia. The waterfalls knew that ever since, I am into him, that secretly I have dreamed to marry him. Alam din nito kung paano nadurog ang puso ko. Habang bumuhos ang walang humpay na tubig nito, sumasabay din ang  mga luha ko.

And this time, while I am wholeheartedly giving myself to the man that I think I am fallen in love with, the waterfalls stayed as the witness of how after all my tears and heartbreaks, I still got that secret dream in my hands… I got the man I wanted… the man that I have always fantasized to marry one day.

“Mmmm…” masarap akong dumaing at napapikit nang maramdaman ko ang mas malalim na paraan nang pag anking sa akin.

Zacariel filled me completely, I could feel his tip poking my lower abdomen, and that’s extremely satisfying. The electrifying sensation was making my arousal heightened. And it felt like any moment, I will reach our favorite destination.

He was massaging my boobs in a tender way. His large palm almost covered my breast. Kung gaano niya ako karahan angkinin ngayon, ibang iba naman kung paano pumintig ang puso ko. My heart is racing like crazy. I wish he wouldn’t felt the way my chest pounded. I don’t know, but I would feel shy if he realizes that I am feeling this way. Dati palang, ganito na ako sa kanya. Lumala pa ngayon.

“Yelena…” he whispered my name in the most sensual yet special way I could imagine.

Niyakap niya pa ako ng husto. Our bodies are too close, it didn’t allow even the air to interfere.

“Mmmm?”

He didn’t answer. I just hear this heavy breathing behind me. His minty breath is hitting my skin. Tila ako matutunaw sa kaluguran. Lalo pa at hindi na siya gumalaw sa loob ko. He just rested his hard member inside of me… making me feel that he completely claimed even the depth of me.

I feel my femininity throbbed. I am so contented with the way our bodies united as one. Ang katotohanan na nakababad lang sa loob ko ang pagkalalaki niya, ay nagbibigay sa akin ng hindi maipaliwanag na tuwa at ligaya.

Siguro dahil alam kong… sa akin siya. Sa akin siya ngayon, bukas, at sa mga darating pa na taon.

Zacariel even deeply buried his thick shaft inside of me, that made me bite my lower lips. Niyakap ko ang braso niya ng husto, ramdam na ramdam ko ang kaligayahan na unti-unting kumakawala sa aking puson.

“Zacariel…” malamyos na tawag ko sa kanya sa rason na hindi malinaw sa akin.

I closed my eyes when I felt him twitched deep within me and filled me with his warm semen.

And even though we both reached our climax, he didn’t bother to pull out.

Umiinit ng husto ang mukha ko paikot sa aking batok. Wala akong balak may reklamo dahil komportable ako sa ganitong posisyon namin. Kaya lang, para akong natatauhan. Sumasaboy na tila apoy ang hiya sa akin. But I shouldn’t feel this, right? Palagi siguro namin gagawin ang ganitong kapag mag asawa na kami, kailangan kong masanay.

“This feeling of you inside of me is… oddly divine.” I said softly.

“Hmm…”

“Do you feel the same way?”

“Uh-huh,” he then kissed my nape.

Pumikit ako at dinama ang yakap at mararahan na halik niya sa aking balat.

I fell asleep after a while, and when I woke up, I found Zacariel licking my nipples.

I am very naked, there’s a thin white sheet that covers my lower body. While Zacariel is topless and now wearing a black boxer shorts that revealed his long strong legs matted with thin hair.

Hinaplos ko ang buhok niya. Habang nilalantakan niya ang dibdib ko, hinahaplos niya rin ang bewang at tiyan ko. Ginigising niya ulit ang nananahimik na kamunduhan sa akin.

I winced when he sucked the skin near my tit. Matagal ang ginawa niyang pagsipsip na siguradong mag iiwan na naman ng pulang marka.

“Ganito ka rin ba kapag mag asawa na tayo?” I asked in a flirty way.

“Yeah. My baby better get use to this.”

Zacariel positioned himself above me. He then started to kiss my lips. I snaked my thin arms around his nape and kissed him back feverishly. Our tongue immediately met. Mabilis akong nalunod sa nakakaakit na kaluguran. Muling binalot ng apoy ang aking katawan.

Our long and torrid kiss took longer before we paused to breath some air. While I was panting, Zacariel lowered down his kisses to my neck… I gasped when he licked my throat.

He then grabbed my boobs with his hands, put them together, before he sucks both of my rosy nipples.

Noong pabalik na kami sa Hacienda sakay ng kabayo ni Zacariel, pagod na pagod ako. Nakasandal ako sa dibdib niya. Komportable ako na hindi mahuhulog dahil nasa magkabilang gilid ko ang mga braso niya.

“You made me tired…” I complained, but in a sweet way.

He chuckled. “Can’t get enough of you.”

“Sinulit mo talaga dahil alam mong ilang araw tayong hindi magkikita?”

“Kinda…”

“Sana payagan na ako nila mommy na sa penthouse mo nalang ako tumuloy. Nagsasayang ka lang ng pera para sa condo ko. Kung pwede naman na sa penthouse mo nalang ako.”

Zacariel is the one paying for my condo and expenses. I do have allowance, but my parents didn’t give me budget for my accommodation and other expenses. If I am going to stay in Manila for my internship, we will save if I stay on his penthouse.

“I don’t think they would like your idea. And don’t worry about money, Yelena. You are now my responsibility.”

I pouted my lips a bit. “Kung ikaw na ang gumagastos ng ibang pangangailangan ko, i think, my parents should consider us living in one roof. Doon din naman tayo mauuwi. Bakit pa nila tayo pinipigilan? I will talk to my mom.”

Aside from I get bored living alone in my condo, it’s practical if I just live with Zacariel. I need to convince my mother about this. Dapat ay payagan na nila ako. Ano ba ang ikinatatakot nila? Sigurado naman na pakakasalan ako ni Zacariel.

When we arrived in Hacienda, Donya Zarita has welcomed us with a beautiful smile on her lips.

Alam niya kaya na magpapakasal kami ni Zacariel? Did he tell his parents about us? I hope so.

“Son, Yelena, I have prepared an early dinner for us…”

Perfect! Because I’m kinda hungry. Si Zacariel lang kasi ang kumakain palagi. Buong tanghali at hanggang hapon namin sa Querencia, abala siya sa katawan ko. He made sure that his lips touched every inch of my body. Malaya niyang hinalikan ang katawan ko kanina. Even my toes and fingers. I felt like he devoted me so much.

I am sitting beside Zacariel. Magiliw kaming pinagmamasdan ni Donya Zarita.

“Yelena, when are you going to have your internship?” She asked me.

“I will do it soon po.”

“Where will it be?”

“It will be in Manila, Donya Zarita.”

“I see. Do you have place to stay?”

“I may stay in the same condo I stayed recently. Same building po ng penthouse ni Zacariel.”

“Are you gonna be alone?”

“Yes, po.”

“Do you like to be alone? Sanay ka ba sa gano’n, Yelena?”

Hindi ako sanay na mamuhay nang mag isa sa isang lugar. I was raised surrounded by people; my family, helpers, guards, and so on. Kaya malaking adjustment din ang kailangan kong gawin kung titira ulit akong mag isa sa condo. Maybe that’s why I also prepare to live with Zacariel this time. Because I didn’t want to be alone.

Magiging abala naman kami buong araw. Pero kapag gabi, mas masarap na may kakwentuhan tungkol sa nangyari sa araw ko habang kayakap ko siya. This is the kind of set up I honestly want once I start my internship.

“I honestly got bored easily when I am alone. Hindi po talaga ako sanay na walang nakikitang tao sa paligid ko at nakakausap.”

“Why don’t you ask Santi to share a condo with you?”

“Magkaiba po kami ng papasukan na kumpanya, Donya Zarita. Kaya hindi na rin po namin pinilit na magkasama sa condo.”

“Zacariel is alone on his penthouse. Tinutulugan niya lang ’yon. Buong araw siyang wala ro’n. Maybe you can stay there?”

Hindi ako sigurado pero para sa akin, tunog tila inilalakad ako ni Donya Zarita sa anak niya. Gusto niya ba ako para kay Zacariel? Hindi niya yata alam ang kasunduan ng pamilya ko at ni Zacariel.

“Gusto ko po sana na sa kanya ako mag stay. But I need to talk to my mom about it. Baka po hindi nila ako payagan.”

“Do you want me to talk to Yuna? I can help you convince your mom,” she gave me a warm smile, like urging me to accept her offer.

My eyes twinkled. Alam ko na kapag si Donya Zarita na ang nakipag usap kay mommy, mahihirapan na siyang tumanggi!

“I would love to, Donya Zarita. Siguradong hindi ka po kayang tanggihan ni mommy.” I giggled.

Tumawa siya sa naaaliw at mabini na paraan. Magaan ang titig niya sa akin.

Gustong-gusto ko talaga si Donya Zarita dahil noon pa man ay tunay na siyang mabait sa akin. Nakakatuwa dahil namana ng mga anak niya ang kabaitan niya. The Guerreras are highly respected and admired. They have no enemies. They are friends to everyone. They treated people fairly. Sigurado rin na mahal na mahal sila ng mga tao sa Hacienda Guerrera.

Kaya isang karangalan din sa akin ang maging parte ng pamilya nila. Kailangan kong magsikap ng husto intership ko. My goal this time is to make Zacariel and his mother proud of me. I won’t get too much support from my own family. So I’d rather make myself inspired by the thought that I want the Guerreras to be delighted because of my achievements.

Donya Zarita told me that she will call my mother anytime soon. I am grateful because she’s supportive.

“Alam ba ni Donya Zarita na may relasyon tayo?” I curiously asked Zacariel.

We are not on our way to Casa Alta. He’s driving a Toyota Fortuner and I’m sitting at the front passenger seat.

“She probably knows.”

“You didn’t tell her?”

“My mom has a very good instinct. She will know what’s going between us in one look…”

“Do you think… she likes me for you?”

“Of course,” he gave me quick glance with smirk on his lips.

Hindi ko mapigilan ang mapangiti. Ang swerte ko pala. Zacariel’s mother likes me. I have a lot to prove to her. Ayokong biguin si Donya Zarita. Gusto kong patunayan sa kanya na karapat-dapat ako kay Zacariel. I deserved to have a Guerrera.

“Alam niya ba ang tungkol sa kasunduan niya nila lolo?”

“I haven’t told my parents yet. But knowing my mother, probably she has ideas already.”

“And she supports us?”

“Fortunately, yeah.”

Pasimple akong napahugot ng hangin sa dibdib at pinakawalan ’yon ng tahimik. It comforted me to know that she supports us with this. Even though they are not known for believing in arranged-marriage. Still, she has the heart to understand what his son’s choice.

Maligaya kaming sinalubong ni mommy. Yumakap ako sa kanya at bumeso.

“It’s good to see you back here, Zacariel.”

“Hinatid niya lang ako, mommy. Uuwi rin po siya.”

“Gano’n? Nandito pa naman ang lolo mo. Alam niya kasi na darating kayo.”

Tinignan ko si Zacariel. He’s wearing a navy blue long sleeves. Yumayakap sa mga braso niya ang tela—banaag ko pa rin ang pag umbok ng muscles niya.

“Okay lang ba sa ’yo? Just say hi to my grandfather…”

“No problem.”

Pumasok kami sa aming mansyon. Sa malawak na sala, naroon si lolo at si daddy. Lumapit si Zacariel sa kanila para bumati.

“Yelena, come here…” mommy gestured me to come to her.

Zacariel found his sit at the single sofa. I will always admired his confidence. He really knows how worth. He’s aware about his influence and power. I never seen him being intimidated by my father and grandfather. While other people feared my family, my own Guerrera never did.

“Bakit po?” I knotted my forehead.

Pasimple akong dinala ni mommy sa kitchen. Our helpers our cleaning the table and washing the dishes.

“Donya Zarita just called me…” she informed me, a bit surprised.

“Bakit daw?” I gave her an innocent look as if I didn’t know the reason.

“Ikaw, ha, siguradong may hindi ka sinasabi sa akin! Why she suddenly offer Zacariel’s penthouse for your accommodation when you do your internship?”

“She said that?”

“Yes! Why is that? What did you do this time, huh? At ginamit mo pa talaga si Donya Zarita para kumbinsihin ako!” She accused me but I found her funny.

Hindi siya makapaniwala na tinawagan siya derekta ni Donya Harita para lang sa bagay na ito. I know my mother, she’s a people pleaser. I don’t think she refused the offer.

“Napag-usapan lang namin kanina ang tungkol sa internship ko, mommy. I told her I am not used living alone. ’Yon naman ang totoo. Wala pa sa akin si Meadow dahil allergic si Zacariel sa fur niya. So, what do you want me to do?”

Madrama siyang bumuntonghininga. Akala mo ay ang laki ng problema niya. Napahawak pa siya sa noo niya. My mother, no matter how evil and unreasonable she could be, I cannot deny the fact that she’s definitely a beauty. She was a beauty queen. I cannot blame my father for falling for her eventually.

“Pumayag ka po ba? Na sa penthouse ako ni Zacariel tutuloy?”

“What do you want me to say, huh? Refuse her? Of course, I said, yes! Now, I need to convince your father to agree!”

“You can easily convince him, mommy. Akitin mo siya mamaya at kumbinsihin—”

“Yelena!” nanlalaki ang mga mata niya. “Watch your words! Bakit alam mo ’yang mga akit akit na ’yan?!”

I pursed my lips. I know more than that though.

“Well, I am eighteen. I am not a kid anymore. Of course, I know that kind of thing—”

“Shh!” She cut me off then point a finger on me. “You’re too aggressive, ha!”

“I am not.”

“No, you are. What if you get pregnant while you’re doing your internship?” She raised her brow at me.

Nagsalubong ang mga kilay ko. “Mommy, ang advance mo naman mag isip.”

“You are going to live with Zacariel. Ano sa tingin mo ang iisipin ko? Na mag uusap lang kayong dalawa kapag nando’n kayo?”

I stayed composed. I don’t want to give my mother any hint that I have shared a kind of sexual intimacy with Zacariel already. She would freak out.

“Maghapon po kaming wala sa penthouse. Zacariel is always busy. Baka nga po hindi na kami magkita sa gabi dahil siguradong pareho kaming pagod. Besides, I am going to sleep in another bedroom. Hindi po sa kama niya.”

“Hindi ako naniniwala!” she crossed her arms above her chest. “I’m done with that kind of excuses, Yelena. Nagawa na namin ’yan ng daddy mo kaya alam ko ’yan. You need to take birth control.”

I winced. I have my pills but I forgot to take it everyday.

“Don’t worry about me, mommy. I am not gonna do it yet with him.”

“Don’t lie in front of my face, Yelena. You’re my daughter, I know what’s up with you. Tomorrow, we’ll go to the clinic. You will have your shot.”

“Okay, mom.” I just shrugged my shoulders.

I am fine with having a shot instead. I will be busy with my internship and I will forget my pills for sure. So, a shot will really do. Now that I’m gonna live with Zacariel, I better keep myself safe from unwanted pregnancy.

27 ~ JEALOUS

CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN

I have my shot that will last for three months. This is a kind of peace of mind that I didn’t know I need. This is also a smart decision. I am glad that my mother think of this. At least, she cares about my well-being. She doesn’t like me to get pregnant this early.

Zacariel’s welcomed us to the lobby of the condominium building. Our guards brought my suitcases to his penthouse then left after. It’s already ten in the evening. I had dinner on our way to Manila, but I am still hungry. Zacariel prepared a pasta for me.

Habang kumakain ako, siya naman ay sumisimsim sa wine glass niya.

“I have my shot…” I trailed off.

“What do you mean?”

“I always forgot my pills. So, I decided to have my shot instead. Sabi rin ni mommy… para hindi ako mabuntis agad.”

Tumango siya. “That’s good.”

Ngumiti ako sa kanya. Now that I am living with him, I can now tell that my dreams are really coming to my reality. Alam ko na matuloy na matutupad ang mga lihim na pangarap ko para sa akin… para sa aming dalawa.

“I didn’t tell her that we did that. She just knew. She said, I am too aggressive.” I chuckled.

“You are,” he laughed heartily.

Bahagya akong napanguso. Talaga bang agresibo ako? Hindi ko naman napapansin ito. Pero siguro, napapansin ng mga taong nakapaligid sa akin. Na pati si Zacariel ay sumasang ayon na agresibo nga talaga ako. I probably made him feel that.

“Halata ba na nagsesex tayo?”

He shrugged his shoulders.

“Santi knew that we did that…”

“Did you tell him?” He was a bit surprised.

“Uh, he asked. He’s my best friend. So… I told him. But not detailed of course.”

He suddenly massage the bridge of his nose as if I stressed him out.

I rolled my eyes. “That’s the truth. Don’t worry, I didn’t admit it to my mom. She just accused me. Sigurado ako, hindi lang naman tayo ang nagsesex. Pati na rin ’yong mga mag boyfriend at girlfriend na nakikita ko. Imposibleng hindi nila ginagawa ’yon.”

Natatawa siya.

I did not justify our wrong doings regarding this matter. I am no saint. Human made mistakes. Hindi man ito tama, mali man kung ituturing, ngunit naging masaya ako.

Maybe, people really can do wrong things for their own happiness. And I am selfish for that. I am a sucker of finding what makes me happy because I felt like I was trapped for a long period of time to do it freely.

Ngayon ko lang nararamdaman ang maging tunay na masaya. Ngayon lang ako nagkakaroon ng kalayaan. Dahil dati, hindi naman. Palagi akong sumusunod sa gusto ng aking pamilya para sa akin. Kung hindi nakialam si Zacariel sa dapat na pagpapakasal ko sa ibang lalaki, siguro hanggang ngayon mabigat pa rin ang loob ko… narito pa rin sana sa puso ko ang galit para sa tradisyon ng mga Altamonte.

But when he comes back to me, he made me realized what life was about. He made me believed that my rights for my liberty is worth fighting for. He gives me inspiration to continue to pursue what I truly deserved—my freedom. If it wasn’t because of him, I don’t think I would be able to live like this—unchained from my own family’s tradition.

I do my internship at Villamor Air. I am amazed at the fact that Zacariel knows the family who owned the airlines. Today, I am assigned to help with the bookings.

“You’re lucky, Miss Altamonte, your backer must be a close friend of Villamors…” Aisha continues to be friendly to me.

“How did you say that?”

“We are not really in need of people here. But here you are.”

We are inside of one of the offices located near Villamors airstrip. Though the glass wall, I can see planes from afar.

“I’d like to work here, do you think I can pass?”

“Possibly, but if I were you, make your goal high. Go and apply as one of their cabin crews. Mas bagay ka do’n. Ang ganda mo, matangkad, para kang beauty queen.”

I smiled as I typed in some details of the clients.

“My mom was a beauty queen.”

“Really? Who’s your mom?”

“Yuna Echeverri—Altamonte…”

Aisha’s eyes widened as she looks at me.

“Really? Yuna is your mom? That’s why your face is familiar but I just can’t figure out where did I see you. Mommy mo pala ’yong Filipino-Columbian. Ang lakas ng genes, ha! You look very Latina. Mas maputi ka lang. Probably, from your dad’s side.”

“Uh, yeah, my dad is mestizo. But they get tanned skin na due to the sun in my hometown.”

“So, if you’re an Altamonte, it means you own a mining company?”

“My family own it. Not me.” I chuckled.

“Now I understand why you’re here. Altamontes backed you up.”

“Actually, my family is not the reason why I am here.”

“Eh, sino?”

“My boyfriend…” I gave her a naughty smile.

Aisha rolls my eyes on me. “The boyfriend must be rich then.”

“They are.” I can hear how proud I am from my tone.

“Tama ’yan, Miss Altamonte. Papatol ka lang dapat sa mga kagaya ng estado ng pamumuhay mo. Do not settle for less. Masasayang ang ganda mo kung sa dukha ka mapupunta.”

“You can call me by my name, Aisha. I prefer it that way.”

“Okay, Yelena.”

Magaan ang mga trabaho na ibinibigay sa akin. Kasundo ko rin ang mga empleyado lalo na si Aisha. Kapag Friday, nagkakayaan kami na magpunta sa Club. I always joined them. Nagpapaalam lang ako kay Zacariel. Tapos palagi rin siyang nagpupunta para sunduin ako. This time, we are in D’ Club.

Yelena:

What time do you think you can pick me up? I told them about you.

I am about to go to the dance floor, but I am texting my boyfriend and Santi. Magkikita kami bukas ng kaibigan ko. Excited akong magkwento sa kanya ng tungkol sa internship ko at gano’n din siya sa akin.

Santi:

I’m jealous! Friday should be a blast! But I’ll see you tomorrow, Yelena. Huwag mong kalimutan na ako ang best friend mo, huh?

I shook my head with smile on my lips.

Yelena:

You are my only best friend. I am not gonna replace you. But Zacariel is becoming my best friend too. Is that fine with you?

Zacariel knows every little thing about me. Kaunting may mangyari lang, sasabihin ko sa kanya. I update him every damn time. Nasasanay na ako na parte na siya ng araw araw ko. Sana ay gano’n din siya sa akin. I always make sure that my presence is still known even if we are apart during day time. Tuwing gabi naman, bawing bawi kami pareho.

If I was not that tired, we eat dinner outside. Kapag pareho naman na pagod, sa penthouse kami kumakain. Then we will spend the rest of our night together. Sabay din kaming naliligo madalas lalo at bago matulog. Then, that’s when we start being naughty, we kiss, until we are both end up with heavy breathings.

Zacariel:

At nine. Do you have time tomorrow until Sunday?

Yelena:

I’m going to meet Santi for lunch tomorrow. Then I’ll be free until Sunday. Why?

“Yelena, let’s dance!” aya sa akin ni Aisha.

“I will just finish this,” I pointed the screen of my iPhone. “Susunod ako.”

“Boyfriend? Pupunta ba?”

“Yes. Susunduin niya ako mamaya.”

“Ipakilala mo kami!”

“Oo ba.”

“Sige, ha! Wala bang kapatid ’yan?”

“Mayro’n.”

“Single?” She shrieked.

“Taken na lahat.”

“Sayang!” tili niya.

I laughed with them before they made their way going to the dance floor.

Zacariel:

I’d like to unwind.

I quickly type a reply.

Yelena:

We can do it. Do you want me to cancel my meeting with Santi?

Zacariel:

No, don’t do that. Maybe reschedule it in the morning instead?

Yelena:

I will text him. I want to unwind too. Where are we going?

Zacariel:

We can talk about this later at home. Enjoy your time there. Don’t get drunk.

I pursed my lips. Paanong hindi ko siya magugustuhan ng todo? Kung ganitong kahit sa pagliliwaliw ko na hindi siya kasama, suportado niya pa rin ako.

Yelena:

If I was drunk, I won’t be able to kiss you longer. So, I’m not gonna get drunk.

Zacariel:

My baby is too cute. See you later.

Yelena:

See you, my hubby!

I keep my iphone inside my bag. Then took a sip of my margarita before I joined the girls on the dance floor. I was taking my moments to enjoy my life… this freedom that I have right now. I dance to the beat of the music, and I giggled with the girls.

After I get tired, I went back to our table. Only to see Khalid, sitting alone on the table next to ours.

“Khalid?” I was surprised to see him there.

“Yelena…”

Lumapit ako sa kanya para bumeso at makipagkwentuhan kahit sandali lang.

“Kanina ka pa dito?”

“Not really. I just had my first glass.”

“I see. Are you alone?”

“Yes.”

“I am with my colleagues.”

“Where do you do your internship?”

“Zacariel backed me to work in Villamor Air.”

Tumango siya bago sumimsim sa alak sa baso niya.

“How are you and your ex-girlfriend? Did you guys fix your relationship?”

“No. It’s unfixable, Yelena.”

“Why did you say that?”

“She’s…” he cannot continue what he was about to say.

“She’s what? She doesn’t want you anymore?”

“She’s not in good condition.”

“Oh, sorry to hear that.”

Gustuhin ko man na ipagpatuloy itong usapan namin at ang tungkol sa ex-girlfriend niya, pero kailangan kong tignan kung nasaan na si Zacariel. I don’t want him to wait for me at the parking. I wanna go home too. I’m done here.

“Would you mind? I wanna excuse myself…”

Khalid nods his head. I smiled warmly at him before I went to our table. Kinuha ko agad sa bag ko ang iPhone at tinignan ang unread messages.

Santi:

If you have new best friend and it’s your soon to-be-husband, it’s fine with me. After all, you are supposed to treat your partner as your best friend.

Santi’s message put a smile on my lips.

Zacariel:

I’m near. Are you ready to go home with me?

Yelena:

Yes. I am just gonna wait for you near the entrance.

Mabilis kong inayos ang sarili ko. I wiped my sweats from dancing. I have no time to go to the restroom. Kahit hindi naman dapat magmadali, nagmamadali pa rin ako. I think, I am just too excited to see Zacariel. It was a long day. Kaninang umaga ko pa siya huling nakita at nahalikan.

“Yelena,” Khalid called me.

Nakatayo na ako at handa nang umalis. I turned my body to face where he was sitting.

“Hi! Khalid, I need to go.”

“I know. I just want you to know that I am going back to United States…”

Napilitan akong bumalik sa kung nasaan siya.

“What do you mean?”

“I have no reason to stay here anymore.”

“How about your family? The company?”

He shook his head. “My father took back my rights to manage it.”

I gasped. “Huh? Why did he do that?”

“That’s the consequences of not pursuing you, Yelena.”

Nakita ko kay Khalid kung gaano ito kabigat sa kanya. Kahit na alam kong baka nariyan na sa labas si Zacariel, gusto ko pa rin maging mabuti kahit sandali lang. Lumapit ako kay Khalid para yakapin siya.

“I’m sorry, Khalid, this happened to you.” I said sincerely.

Tinapik niya ang likod ko. “It’s not your fault, Yelena. Probably, living here is not really meant for me. My life is not here. Besides, I don’t wanna take away your happiness and freedom.”

“Thank your for being considerate.”

“Yelena,” I heard Zacariel’s baritone.

Nanlaki ang mga mata ko. Wala naman akong ginagawang masama pero pakiramdam ko sa paraan kung paano niya ako tawagin, tila ba may kasalanan ako.

Mabilis akong lumayo sa pagkakayakap kay Khalid na tila ba napaso ako sa pagkakadikit namin.

Tumayo ako. I panicked a bit. “Zacariel… you’re here na pala.”

He’s on his white dress shirt, looking dark and powerful while his both hands were inside his pockets. His eyes were like a hawk, ready to punish whoever betrayed him. Kung madilim dito sa Club, di hamak na mas madilim ang itsura niya. I can even feel his heavy air.

I walked closer to him and snaked my arm on his. He didn’t flinch. As if my touch didn’t affect him.

“Uh, this is Khalid Fonseca…” I still introduced Khalid despite the heaviness of our ambiance. “Khalid, this is Zacariel Guerrera…”

Khalid stood up and extended his arm for a handshake.

Hindi agad gumalaw si Zacariel. Mariin ang titig niya na animo pinag aaralan ang lalaki sa harap namin.

My heart was racing for some damn reason. I had to elbow his waist a bit for him to accept Khalid’s hand. Tila ako nabunutan ng tinik sa lalamunan nang tinanggap niya ang kamay ni Khalid. They shook hands in a firm but quick way.

“Khalid, aalis na kami. Sana magka-ayos kayo ng girlfriend mo. I’m sorry for the trouble…” I really made sure that Zacariel heard that Khalid was still trying to fix his relationship with his girl.

Tahimik kami sa loob ng sasakyan. Hindi ko tuloy alam kung ano ang sasabihin o mararamdaman ko.

Iniisip niya ba na nagtataksil ako sa kanya dahil naabutan niya akong nakayakap kay Khalid? Galit ba siya? Nagseselos ba siya kaya siya ganito? But he’s not seloso. I can’t imagine him being jealous. So why the hell he looks like he has an invisible enemy on the road?

28 ~ WIFE

CHAPTER TWENTY EIGHT

I cannot let this night slide without clearing things out with Zacariel. His silence was like a punishment to me and I didn’t like it.

“Zacariel…” I held his wrist and pulled him to me carefully.

We just got back to his penthouse. Before we go to bed, I want to talk to him. We are not going to sleep without me explaining my side. Even if he didn’t ask for this, I will still do what I think is right.

Tinignan niya ako sa malamig na paraan. I am not intimidated by him. I am bothered with the fact that he can do this to me… the silent and cold treatment from him pained me.

“I did not know that Khalid was there. Pagkabalik ko sa lamesa namin galing sa dance floor, nakita ko siya na nando’n sa katabi ng sa amin. We greeted each other. I cannot just ignore him. We talked a bit about his plan and ex-girlfriend. He will be back in United States because he lost his chance to run their family business here. It was because of our cancelled marriage. I did not want to cause anyone pain, I had this urge to at least comfort him by embracing him. Aside from that, I was the reason why he and his girlfriend broke up. He said, their relationship cannot be fixed. I understood his situation, I pity him because he had to deal with of these by himself. Oo at matagal kaming hindi nagkita at nagkausap, pero magkaibigan kami no’ng mga bata pa kami. Kaya siguro siya rin ang pinili nila lolo na ipakasal sa akin… because I have known him. But the hug, the one you saw, it was purely a friendly hug, Zacariel…”

Hindi ako tumigil sa pagpapaliwanag sa kanya kahit pa ang haba na ng mga sinabi ko. I didn’t want him to interrupt me and I am glad he didn’t. Mukha rin naman wala siyang plano na putulin ako sa pagsasalita. He’s just staring at me.

Napanguso ako dahil wala pa rin siyang reaksiyon. Nakakalungkot. Paano niya ako natitiis ng ganito? Dahil sa totoo lang, hindi ako makakatulog kapag alam kong may hindi kami pagkakauanwaan.

I blinked when I felt the heat on the sides of my eyes. Hindi ako sanay na ganito kami. Paano nalang sa mga susunod na buwan o taon? Kaya niyang maging malamig sa akin at hindi ako kausapin?

“I cannot deal with the way you treat me…” I swallowed hard. “I am not use to you being cold and silent towards me.”

Slowly, he wrapped his one arm around my waist and pulled me closer to him. Tahimik niya akong niyakap.

Gusto kong ngumiti ngunit bumagsak ng tuluyan ang luha sa aking pisngi. Wala akong nakitang masama sa ginawa ko. Hindi rin pagtataksil ang pagyakap ko kay Khalid. I am scared that he misinterprets my action. That’s why he was cold.

“I’m sorry…” he whispered in raspy tone.

I pursed my lips to stop myself to sob. I can feel my heart was about to break, but when I heard him apologize, I am suddenly feeling fine.

“I overreacted. I was upset watching you hugging him…”

I carefully nodded my head against his hard chest.

“Can you forgive me for treating you coldly?” he asked gently.

Ngumuso ako tumango ulit. “You’re forgiven.”

I felt him kissed the top of my head. He then took a deep breath, then let it out.

“You are upset, and not jealous?” I was curious.

“Just upset.”

Hindi talaga siya seloso! Paano pa kaya kapag nagselos na siya? Baka mas malamig pa ang ituring niya sa akin.

After we took a shower together, we lay in bed. I use his chest as my pillow. We are embracing each other. It felt so cozy… so homey being in his arms.

“Where are we going tomorrow?”

“To the beach…”

“Where?”

“Just somewhere in Batangas.”

“And we are going to stay there until Sunday?”

“We’ll be back here Sunday afternoon.”

“Okay. I’m glad I bring some pairs of my bikini with me.”

We kissed each other before we finally fell asleep.

Mabuti nalang at pumayag si Santi na sa umaga kami magkita. We met at the Cafe near my place. Santi looks cute and he always smells good.

“Guess what, Yelena, after my internship, I am going to Thailand with my collogues!” He excitedly informed me.

“Did you like them?”

“I did. They are nice and fun to be with. Kahit maraming pinapagawa sa amin, masaya namin na natatapos dahil magkakasundo kami. How ’bout you? Okay ba sa Villamor Air?”

We are having our coffees and some pastries.

“I like my colleagues too. But we don’t have plan to travel abroad. I guess, I will ask Zacariel to travel with me instead.”

“Hindi na kita aayain sumama sa akin dahil hindi mo naman kilala ang mga kasama ko. I don’t want you to be out of place. Tama, ayain mo nalang ang asawa mo na mag travel. Pwede niyo nang i-advance ang honeymoon niyo sa Europe!”

I blushed. “Honeymoon ka diyan! Kasal muna bago ’yan.”

“Huh? Eh, di, ba nauna na nga pala ang honeymoon niyo!” Humalakhak siya.

Natawa ako at medyo nahiya na alam niya ang tungkol sa namagitan sa amin ni Zacariel.

“At ngayon na magkasama kayo sa penthouse niya, baka inaraw araw mo na ang Guerrera na ’yon, ha? Umamin ka, Yelena?! Pakirmdam ko pa naman ay simple kang agresibo!” She teasingly pinched my cheek.

Umikot ang mga mata ko habang hindi maampat ang ngiti sa aking labi. I missed catching up with Santi. Siya rin kasi ang nakakaalam nang mga pinagdaanan ko noon at hanggang ngayon. Alam kong masaya siya na nagkaayos na kami ni Zacariel.

“Ako talaga? Abala kami pareho ’no! Wala na kaming oras para diyan.”

“Baka magulat nalang ako… buntis ka ng babae ka?”

“Imposible! I have a shot—”

He screamed in controlled way. “What do you mean? Birth control?”

“Yeah.”

“Hindi halatang pinaghandaan mo ang pagtira sa kanya, huh?” tukso niya sa akin.

“My mom was the one who suggested this.”

“What?” nagulat siya. “So, alam ni tita Yuna na may nangyari sa inyo ni Zacariel?”

“He accused me but I didn’t confirm it. She’s just wanna make sure I won’t get pregnant this early.”

“Huh! Sana ganyan din siya sa paraan nila para madaliin kang magpakasal. Paano nalang pala kung hindi nakialam si Zacariel? Ibig sabihin, si Khalid sana ang kasama mo ngayon? Kaya mo ba ’yon, Yelena?”

“Hindi ko kaya. Kaibigan lang ang turing ko kay Khalid. Alam mo ba… nagkita kami kagabi sa Club…”

“And?” he was interested. “Dali! Kwento mo na…”

“Babalik na siya sa States. Inalisan na siya ng posisyon sa kumpanya nila.”

“Aw! Kawawa naman si Khalid. Dahil ba sa hindi na matutuloy ang kasal niyo?”

“Oo. Isa pa, naghiwalay din pala sila ng girlfriend niya dahil dito. I feel guilty tuloy.”

Napaisip saglit si Santi. I took that chance to sip on my Spanish latte.

“If I am not mistaken, I think, Khalid’s girlfriend was the one who was sent to the mental institution?”

Ako naman ngayon ang nabigla. My lips parted. I had no idea about this… until Santi told me.

“What? Are you sure?”

“Well, I need to make sure. Pinag usapan kasi ang tungkol dito no’ng nagpunta ako sa isang gathering kasama sila mommy. I was not sure, Yelena, I am sorry brought this up.”

Humugot ako ng hangin sa dibdib. Sana naman mali ang pagkakaintindi ni Santi sa narinig niyang usapan.

“Wait… I’m gonna check the group chat…” Santi grabbed his cellphone.

I eat my croissants while waiting for his news.

“Here, umm, they didn’t name the girl. But according to their conversations here, the family of her boyfriend is against their relationship. Now, the girl is allegedly staying in a psychiatric clinic and under observations… and… what else… here, nakalabas na pala ’yong girl…”

Hindi ko alam kung bakit ako guminhawa sa balita na nakalabas na kahit na hindi ko naman kilala kung sino ang pinag uusapan. I just hope that Khalid could have a proper closure with his ex-girlfriend to avoid future complications.

After I met with Santi, I went back to our penthouse. Zacariel already prepared our keepalls.

“Hi, I’m just gonna freshen up…” I kissed his cheek.

Hinawakan niya ako sa bewang. “Okay, pretty.” he then angled his head to kiss my lips.

Nakangiti ako habang paakyat sa hagdan. I changed into a cream linen mini tube dress. I paired it with my Bottega Veneta mules. Then I styled my hair in a half ponytails. I sprayed my perfume and I’m done.

Zacariel was waiting for me downstairs. He watched me walk until I reached him.

“You look happy,” he notices.

“Because we are going to the beach and I am with you.”

He looked dashing with his white cotton t-shirt and navy blue pants. His outfit is simple yet his overall appearance carried power and superiority. Not to mention that he has really an insane genes mixed with Filipino-Spanish-Mexican blood, if I am not mistaken. All his features are on the perfect spot… I could stay longer just staring at him.

“Ang gwapo naman ng asawa ko…” sabay haplos ko sa bicep niya.

He let out a short hearty laugh. “Asawa, huh.”

“Bakit? Asawa naman talaga kita, ha?” namungay ang mga mata ko.

Zacariel growled like he was in pain.

“Sa akin lang dapat itong katawan mo, pero sige, hahayaan kitang mag topless sa beach mamaya…”

Kinapa ko ang matigas na tiyan niya. He flinched at my touch which made me smirk inwardly.

“I wanna see these abs under the broad sunlight…” I teased.

The side of his lips curved up. “You will…”

Malambing ko siyang niyakap at tumingala sa kanya. Nakatingin din siya sa akin habang hinahaplos ang bewang ko.

“Mamaya mo na ako lambingin,” his voice was gentle, then slightly pinched the tip of my nose.

“Aalis na tayo?”

“We better…”

Nagkibit ako ng balikat at lumayo na ng bahagya sa kanya para makaalis na kami. We used his black Lexus going to Mabini. I fell asleep on our way. Zacariel woke me up when we are near. We have our ocean view suite. Nagpunta ako sa balcony para makita pa lalo ang malawak at asul na karagatan.

“The view is amazing. Come…” aya ko kay Zacariel.

He walked closer to me and stood behind me. Ipinulupot niya agad sa akin ang mga braso niya.

“Why don’t we go to the beach during weekends? If you have time. Huwag kang puro trabaho. Baka maaga kang tumanda.”

Natawa siya habang inaamoy niya ang buhok ko.

“I work for our future, Yelena.”

“Alam ko. Baka sobrang dami mo ng pera, hindi na natin ’yan magagastos lahat.”

“We will have our children spend our money in the future.”

Itinagilid ko ng bahagya ang ulo ko para mahalikan niya ang aking pisngi.

“Ilan ang gusto mong maging anak natin?” masaya kong tanong.

“Ilan ang gusto mo?”

Nanliit ang mga mata ko. Ilan nga ba ang gusto ko? Bata pa naman ako. Kung gusto namin ng maraming anak, kayang kaya namin. Lalo pa eksperto sa kama si Zacariel. Baka mabilis niya lang akong mabuntis.

“Lima?”

“Lima? Kaya mo? You’re the one who will carry our baby, Yelena. The decision is yours.”

“Kaya ko naman ang five. Malungkot kasi kapag dalawa lang. Kami lang ni kuya sa mansyon. Boring. Gusto ko maraming bata. Ang lawak ng mansyon namin… tapos ang sa inyo, gano’n din. Pwede silang maglaro ng malaya. Pumili lang sila kung saan nila gustong mag stay.”

“We will have our own house. But our children can always visit their grandparents.”

“Ayoko ng mansyon, ha? I think, it’s too big just for us. Maybe, build a mansion kapag five na ang anak natin.”

Tumango-tango siya sa marahan na paraan. Bukod sa sinasaulo niya ang mga sinasabi ko, halata rin na sumasang-ayon siya.

“So, is it fine? For us to have five children?” I asked to make sure that he wants it too.

“It’s up to you. Ayokong mahirapan ka.”

“Kaya ko!” I assure him. “I can deliver five babies in different year.”

Dapat hindi sunud-sunod ang agwat ng edad ng mga anak namin.

“Maybe, from three to four years age gap… for us to have another kid?”

“That would be fine…” he was kissing my neck.

Pinipigil ko ang huwag dumaing sa sensasyon na ibinibigay sa akin ng mga halik niya. I want our conversation to continue. But if he would keep on kissing me this way, I might end up moaning.

“After my graduation, I will pursue fashion design. After that, maybe we can have our first child?”

“How ’bout your boutique?”

He remembered!

“Hmm, while I am pregnant, we are building my boutique. Hindi naman mabilis ang pagbuo no’n. It will take time. I wanna use that time to carry our first child.”

“I don’t want you to be stressed during your pregnancy, Yelena.”

“I’m not gonna be stressed. I think, I’d be happy building my boutique while I am pregnant. My baby will give me inspiration.”

“Our baby,” he corrected me.

“Our baby… yeah. Then, when I give birth, I’ll just focus with our baby first. By that time, my boutique is ready…”

Can I do both? A mother and a designer? Madali lang sabihin pero kapag iniisip ko, kaya ko ba talaga?

“But where am I going to get my funds to build my boutique?” I can’t help but wonder.

Saan naman nga ako kukuha ng pera para sa pangarap kong ito? Wala pa nga akong trabaho. Kay Zacariel lang ako umaasa ngayon. Siya ang may pera. Ako? Wala. Ganda lang ang mayroon ako sa ngayon at ang mga ambisyon ko.

“I will fund your boutique,” his minty breath hit the skin of my neck.

Napalunok ako nang maramdaman ang hindi sinasadyang kaluguran. Hindi kami nagtalik kagabi. Pero nakatitiyak ako na habang nandito kami, may mangyayari sa amin.

“That’s how supportive are you as my husband?” A smile crept my lips.

“I wanna support my wife with her dreams…”

My face heated the way he just addressed me—his wife! Damn! This feels unreal. He probably making himself get use to this too.

“But do you know what is my secret dream ever since?”

“Say it to me…” he urged me as if he will do everything that he could for me to reach that secret dream of mine.

I rested my head against his broad chest, then I hugged his arms that wrapped around me. I feel my heart was thumping and I cannot blame every beat. It will always be like this when I am with Zacariel Guerrera… pounding like crazy.

“I have always dreamed of marrying… you.” I whispered softly.

He paused from kissing my neck. He acted surprised. But this shouldn’t surprised him anymore. Gustung-gusto ko na siya dati pa.

“I think I have never stopped from secretly dreaming of marrying you one day, even if I am aware of our family tradition. I kept on dreaming about us despite the fact that Guerreras don’t marry for business.”

“Baby, I will make your secret dream come true…” his low voice held a promise that couldn’t be break.

29 ~ STALKER

CHAPTER TWENTY NINE

I am laying on the sun lounger while I watch Zacariel having his personal moment in the ocean. The water level his waist. I can see the muscles on his back, and honestly, he looked divine under the golden sunlight. He’s like a greek god given by heaven as a gift for me. What did I do to deserve a man like him?

This is our last day in Mabini. After lunch, we will go back to Manila. Bukas ng umaga ay balik trabaho naman kami. Ganito siguro ang magiging set up namin palagi kapag ikinasal na kami at nagkaroon na rin ako ng maayos na trabaho. Kaya sinasanay ko na rin ang sarili ko.

I adjusted my sunglasses when Zacariel turned his body to face me. He has broad chest and rift abdomen. Kumikinang ang katawan niya dahil sa sikat ng araw at pagkabasa ng kanyang balat. His muscles were more defined because it’s day time and he’s topless. I can’t believe he’s going to be my husband soon.

I wonder how many women would have their hearts broken when they realized that Zacariel Guerrera is going to get married. Actually, he’s still young for marriage. Unlike his older brothers. Pero pinili niya pa rin na lakbayin ang daan na kasama ako. Kahit na sa totoo lang, hindi naman talaga sila kilala na bigla nalang nagpapakasal dahil lang napagkasunduan ng dalawang pamilya.

Bumangon ako para puntahan siya. His eyes sharpened as he watches me walking towards him. His gaze drifted from my face down to my body. I am wearing a triangle two piece bikini which I know emphasize my curves. That’s why he was looking at me darkly.

I giggled when I get near him and immediately snaked my thin arms around his nape. The water is a bit warm but when the breeze blows, it gets cold.

I felt his hand travel to my ass and he squeezed me there.

“What? Wala namang ibang tao rito. Ikaw lang ang nakakakita…”

He hissed quietly. He then spanked me which made me laughed.

My bikini bottom wasn’t able to cover my butt. And he cannot do something about it. Sinuot ko pa rin dahil wala naman masyadong guest sa beach resort na ito. Kung mayro’n man, mga banyaga.

“Spank me daddy…” I teased him.

His eyes squinted. “Say it again?”

“I said, spank me… daddy…”

He strokes my ass with his large palm. I had to control my emotions. Even though, what he’s doing is arousing.

“Zacariel…” I warned him when he slid his palm under the string of my bikini bottom.

Napatingkayad ako nang maramdaman ang daliri niya sa aking pagkababae. He’s teasing my entrance sensually. Kinagat ko ang aking labi habang namumungay ang mga mata ko na nakatingin sa kanya.

Wala sa sarili na medyo pinaghiwalay ko ang mga hita ko para bigyan siya laya na ipagpatuloy ang ginagawa niya sa akin. Bumaba ang isang kamay ko sa dibdib niya.

His long finger expertly rub my folds. My knees were trembling because I am too thrilled.

“You can’t get enough, huh,” tukso ko sa kanya. “Ang tagal mong kumain kaninang umaga…”

The side of his lips curved up arrogantly. We both knew what I was talking about.

“Did you like the way I eat?”

“I did!” my face heated badly and I cannot hide this from him. “You were like a hungry beast. Ginawa mo akong pagkain.”

“Your taste is intoxicating. I am addicted.” His low voice was rough.

I am blushing so hard. Muli na namang bumalik sa akin ang ginawa niya kaninang umaga para gisingin ako. I caught him in between my thighs, licking my flesh early in the morning! And it took him like about thirty minutes or so before he let me go!

“I can still feel your tongue…” I whispered seductively.

He angled his head until his lips were near my ear. “I want my tongue here…” he rubs my entrance which made me moan. “… every morning to wake you up.”

Kulang nalang ay matunaw ako sa sobrang init ng aking nararamdaman. I felt something throbbed in between my thighs. Something erotic and arousing.

“Turn around,” he commanded erotically.

I turned my body for us to face the ocean instead of the shore. Now, he’s behind me. He moved his hand on my lower abdomen then sensually slid it under my bikini. Napasandal ako sa kanya nang ekspertong nahanap ng daliri niya ang kahinaan ko.

Hindi ko na alintana ang nakakasilaw na sikat ng araw, ang yakap ng maalat na hangin sa akin, at ang lamig ng tubig. Ang tanging lumulukob sa akin ay ang matinding kasabikan.

“Zacariel…” nanabik na tawag ko sa kanya.

“Hmm?” He’s kissing my neck while his fingers were rubbing my folds.

Hindi na ako napagsalita pang muli. Masasarap na daing nalang ang lumalabas sa aking bibig. I have to hold onto to his arm to keep myself still. My legs were turning into jelly already.

He was encircling his thumb against my cl*t, while his middle finger is making its way to my entrance. The electrifying sensation is burning me despite being in the water. Tila ako natutupok na apoy at walang kalaban laban na matutunaw sa tubig.

“Uuhhh…” humigpit ang kapit ko sa braso niya nang ipasok niya ang daliri sa akin.

My mouth opened as I felt him gently moving his middle finger inside and outside of me. While His thumb was torturing my sensitive nub in a very pleasurable way I couldn’t imagine.

“This is too good. I am gonna cum… mmmm…” I said like I was going insane.

“I wanna suck this…” he muttered darkly and pinched my cl*t with his thumb.

Napasinghap ako sa ginawa niya. Pakiramdam ko, namimintig na ng husto ang parteng ito ng aking katawan. Alam na alam niya talaga ang kahinaan ko.

“Please do…” I begged.

“Do you wanna get back to our suite?” he sounded like inviting me.

Nanghihina akong tumango. Hindi ako mabibitin kahit ihinto namin ito ngayon. Dahil alam ko na mas malalang kaluguran ang naghihintay sa akin kapag bumalik kami sa aming silid.

“Yeah…” I croaked.

Zacariel released his fingers from my flesh. I looked at him and caught him licking the same fingers he used to please me.

“Shit…” I can’t help but curse.

Hindi pa siya nakuntento, ibinalik niya ang mga daliri sa pagkababae ko at hinimod ang tila katas na lumabas sa akin.

“Zacariel…” para akong na-e-eskandalo sa ginawa niya.

Muli niyang dinilaan ang mga daliri niya.

Nangangapal ang init hindi lang sa mukha ko, pati na rin sa batok at leeg. I felt like my energy was taken away from me. Hindi pa kami nagsisimula pero daig ko pa ang natutunaw na yelp.

When we passed the restaurant, I saw that girl again… staring sharply at me.

Maiksi ang buhok niya, maganda rin siya, pero sa tuwing napapatingin ako sa kanya, matalim ang titig na iginagawad niya sa akin. She looked angry at me. Hindi ko alam kung ganito lang ba talaga siya tumingin, pero nakakabahala.

“Have you noticed that woman?” I asked Zacariel.

“Who?”

“The girl at the restaurant with short hair…”

Lumingon si Zacariel sa restaurant. “Which one?”

Ayoko sanang lumingon pa ulit dahil baka malaman ng babae na pinag uusapan namin siya. But I have this urge to point out who was she to Zacariel. Nang balikan ko ng tingin, wala na do’n ang tinutukoy ko. Weird!

“Never mind.”

Maybe I was just overreacting. May mga tao talaga sigurong masama makatingin. Ipinagsawalang bahala ko ang naranasan ko ’yon. Hanggang sa makabalik kami sa Manila at dumating ang Lunes, nawala rin naman sa isip ko ang babae.

“How was your weekend, Yelena?” Aisha handed me my coffee.

“Thanks. We went to Batangas. How was yours?”

“I just visited my parents in Bulacan. Kasama mo ang boyfriend mo?”

“Yes.”

“Sulit ang weekend mo sigurado…” tukso niya sa akin.

I smirked. “Sulit na sulit.”

Tumili siya ng bahagya. “Nakakamiss magka boyfriend. Ang tagal ko ng walang kahalikan at ano… alam mo na…”

“Anong ano?” I raised my eyebrow.

“Sex,” she mouthed and giggled.

Umikot ang mga mata ko. “Sagutin mo na kasi si Noris para may kahalikan ka.”

“Kaya pala ang blooming mo ngayon! Ganyan pala kapag palaging nahahalikan at nadidiligan!”

“Shh!” saway ko sa kanya. “I am blooming because I have a happy love life.”

“That counted too. Pero counted din kapag may nag aalaga sa ’yo. Bonus nalang talaga ang sex.”

“I think, it’s part of a relationship. Though it wasn’t right because we are not yet married, still, it help us be closer to each other.”

“I understand you, girl. You don’t need to explain. Ganyan din kami ng ex boyfriend ko. Nag live pa nga kami. Tuwing umaga at gabi lang kami nagkakasama dahil pareho kaming abala sa trabaho namin. Ang sarap sa pakiramdam kapag magkayakap kayong natutulog…” Aisha dreamily said.

It made me smile because I got to relate with her. I am really happy whenever I sleep while in Zacariel’s arms. Lahat ng pagod ko sa buong maghapon ay natutunaw kapag magkayakap na kami. Siguro, ganito rin ang nararamdaman ni Zacariel. Sana napapawi ko rin ang pagod niya kapag yakap niya ako.

I was waiting for my driver to pick me up. Si Aisha naman ay naghihintay sa sasakyan na na-book niya. May mga ilang empleyado na pauwi na rin at kanya kanyang kwentuhan.

“Sa Cafe kaya muna tayo? My driver is trapped in the traffic.” Aya niya sa akin.

Pareho kami. Naipit din sa traffic si Rodelo. Baka kalahating oras pa bago siya makarating.

“Okay. Let’s go.”

We walked to the Cafe just a few meters from where we are. Dito rin kami madalas magpunta kapag break namin. I ordered my usual Spanish latte and sit where I can see Rodelo. Pero habang sumisimsim ako sa kape, nakita ko ’yong babae…

Kumunot ang noo ko. I already forgot about her. But it was strange to see her in my workplace.

“Aisha, do you know that girl?” I simply pointed the girl using my lips.

Sinundan naman ni Aisha ang tinutukoy ko. “The girl? ’Yang short hair ba?”

“Yes.”

“Hindi ko kilala. Hindi rin pamilyar. Bakit?”

“Are you sure? Hindi ba empleyado rito?”

“Pwedeng empleyado siya at nasa ibang department lang. Napansin ko na rin ’yang no’ng nakaraan…”

Binalik ko ang tingin kay Aisha sa gilid ko. “What do you mean?”

“Nagpupunta nga rin ’yan dito sa Cafe. Naalala ko na. Nag start ko siyang mapansin no’ng pumasok ka sa ’min. Akala ko nga kilala mo…”

The fact that the girl has been here the same time I’ve started my internship, made me bothered. Tila ako kinikilabutan. Tapos ngayon, ang sama pa rin ng tingin niya sa akin. Stalker ba siya? Bakit ako? Kilala niya ba ako?

“I don’t know her. But you know what’s weird? I saw her in Batangas!”

Aisha gasped. Namimilog ang mga mata niya. “Yelena! Baka stalker mo ang babaeng ’yan! Mag ingat ka! Ang sama niya makatingin.”

“Hindi naman siya lumalapit sa akin. Pero tama ka, ang sama nga niya tumingin.”

“Baka stalker mo talaga. Sigurado kilala ka niyan. Mayaman pa naman kayo baka bigla ka nalang kunin niyan. Tapos hihingin ng pera sa pamilya mo. Nakakatakot din pala maging mayaman.”

Habang nagsasalita si Aisha, tumataas ang mga balahibo ko sa batok. I suddenly feel terrified because of the girl’s presence. I need to do something. Should I confront her? But what if she hurts me?

“Kapag bukas o sa mga susunod na araw, nandito pa rin ’yan. I-report na natin sa management.”

I nodded my head. “Sana hindi na siya bumalik dito.”

“Sana kamo hindi ka na niya sundan. Kung stalker mo talaga ’yan, sobra naman siyang obsessed sa ’yo dahil nasundan ka pa sa Batangas. Ibig sabihin, alam niyan na ang bawat galaw mo, Yelena. Mag ingat ka sa mga ganyan. Ang ganda ganda mo pa naman. Baka kung ano ang mangyari sa ’yo. Bakit ba wala kang bodyguards?”

I winced. I refused to have a bodyguard because I don’t need one. Maghapon ako sa loob ng opisina at hatid sundo rin. Walang banta sa buhay ko. But right now, I feel like I need a guard. Medyo kinakabahan na talaga ako sa presensya ng babae na ’to. Nakatayo lang siya sa tawid kung saan humihinto ang mga sasakyan.

“Hala, naglalakad siya papunta dito…” napahawak si Aisha sa braso ko.

My heart pounded. I really need to do something! Should I run? Should I wait and confront her?

“Yelena, baka kung ano ang gawin niya. Tara na kaya? Balik tayo sa loob?”

“Aisha, calm down. Hindi ’yan gagawa ng masama. Ang daming tao dito.”

Luminga si Aisha sa paligid. May mga kasama kami sa Cafe. May security guard din. Kung manggugulo siya o mananakit, mabilis siyang mahuhuli. I don’t think she would hurt me. Pero ayoko rin magpaka kampante. I don’t know what’s going on in her head.

Humigpit ang kapit sa akin ni Aisha nang tuluyan na makapasok ang babae sa Café. Sa counter ito dumeretso.

“Let’s leave, Yelena. My driver is near. How about you?”

I checked my phone and Rodelo is not that near yet.

“Malayo pa siya. Gusto mo mauna ka na?”

“Huh? Paano ka? Sumabay ka nalang kaya sa akin? Ayokong iwan ka dito. Baka kung ano ang mangyari sa ’yo.”

I appreciate her care for me even if we just only known each other for a quite while.

“Walang mangyayari sa akin dito, Aisha. Ang daming tao, oh. Sisigaw ako kapag sinaktan ako ng babaeng ’yan.”

“Ang tapang mo, Yelena. Pero ayoko pa rin umalis.”

“Paano ang driver mo?”

“Babayaran ko nalang tapos hindi ako sasakay para hindi sayang ang gasolina niya.”

I took a deep breath. Hindi na nga talaga umalis si Aisha. She told the driver that she’s not yet on the pick up point area and paid.

“Kami nalang ang maghahatid sa ’yo,” sabi ko sa kanya.

“Sige. Dito nalang tayo maghintay. Magpanggap nalang tayo na hindi nakita ang stalker mo.”

I checked my phone to see any messages. Rodelo is near and I am relieved.

Santi:

Remember the girl I was talking about? Khalid’s ex-girlfriend? May balita na nakatakas daw sa ward. Hinahanap siya.

Kumunot ang noo ko at wala sa sariling napatingin kung nasaan ang babae. Bigla ay nawala siya sa paligid.

“Where did she go?” I asked Aisha.

“Lumabas sa back door. Buti nalang at umalis na siya.”

I typed a reply.

Yelena:

Do you have any photos of the girl? Can you send it to me.

I grabbed my bag when I saw Zacariel’s Lexus.

“Let’s go Aisha…”

Sumunod siya agad sa akin. I am not sure why Rodelo uses the Lexus. When the window rolled down, my heart skipped a beat when I saw Zacariel’s on the driver side.

“Zacariel…” my eyes twinkled.

“Get in.” He gave me a sly smile.

“Ang sosyal ng sundo mo, Yelena.” Aisha murmured, she looks amazed while looking at the black Lexus.

“Uh, may kasama ako. Si Aisha.” Sabi ko.

“Okay. You girls get in.”

Sa front passenger ako umupo. I kissed Zacariel’s lips.

While Aisha settled at the back passengers sit. “Nice car, sir!”

Zacariel only smirked.

“Aisha, this is Zacariel, my boyfriend.” I introduced him with pride.

“Ang gwapo! Ang bango!” Aisha cannot hide her amazement.

I let out a sigh of relief when we left the building of my work place. I am scared to see if Santi has message. What if the girl who stalk me was the Khalid’s ex-girlfriend?

“Yelena, sana hindi na bumalik ’yong stalker mo…” Aisha opened the topic that made me wince.

Zacariel gave me a quick glance. “Stalker?”

I pursed my lips. I shouldn’t hide this thing from him. I think, I should ask for a guard. Gusto kong masigurado na magiging ligtas ako.

“Remember the girl I saw in Batangas? She was outside my workplace today. I am not sure if it was a coincidence or she’s indeed a stalker.”

“I’ll have her investigated.” He muttered darkly.

30 ~ FRAGILE

CHAPTER THIRTY

My hands trembled when I saw the photo that Santi has sent me. Khalid’s ex-girlfriend was the same girl who stalked me.

Yelena:

I know this girl. She stalks me.

This is not funny. That girl was stalking me because of what happened to her and Khalid. Hindi ko pa masabi kung ano ang gusto niyang mangyari. But she’s creeping me out.

I answered Santi’s call.

“What do you mean she stalks you?” Bungad niya agad.

“No’ng nasa Batangas kami, nando’n din siya. Masama ang tingin niya sa akin. I thought it was just nothing. Then today, we saw her outside my working place.”

“Oh my! You should report it to the police! Baka kung ano ang gawin sa ’yo ng babae na ’yan, Yelena. Did you tell Zacariel about this?”

“I told him about her. Pag uusapan namin mamaya ang mga gagawin.”

Naglakad ako palabas sa bedroom namin. I walked towards that swimming pool area where Zacariel is.

“It’s not safe for you to go by yourself. Please, ask for a bodyguard. I am sure Zacariel can give you one.”

Naupo ako sa gilid ng swimming pool at inilapag ang mga paa sa tubig. I waited for Zacariel to swim back to where I am.

“I am safe in the office. But you’re right, I need a guard with me.”

“Yelena, I really need to go. Please update me about what’s going on with you, okay?”

“Okay. Take care, Santi.”

“You too.”

I ended the line and put down my iPhone on my side. Malalim akong humugot ng hangin sa dibdib at unti unting din na pinakawalan.

“Hi,” I smiled at Zacariel when he got near me.

He’s panting a bit because he swam. The water was drifting from his hair, down to his face, jaw, and chest. He jailed me using with his arms. Ang dalawang braso niya ay nasa magkabila ko. I don’t mind getting wet even if I just took a shower. I am now wearing my slip silk dress

“The stalker is Khalid’s ex-girlfriend,” I informed him. “She escaped from the Psychiatric ward.”

Dumilim ang mga mata niya. “Are you sure?”

“Yes. I got these details from Santi.”

“Then, you need a guard with you.”

“Kailangan ko lang siguro kapag nasa labas ako. Kapag nasa loob kami ng building, marami naman security.”

He took a deep breath. Nakatingala siya sa akin. Animo tahimik na inaaral niya kung ano ang dapat gawin sa sitwasyon ko. We shouldn’t be bothered but I know we can’t be careless too.

“I don’t wanna risk it, Yelena. If that woman was freely roaming around you, the danger is possible.”

“Paano kung gusto niya lang pala akong kausapin? Why don’t I just confront her when I see her again?”

“Do not cross that line, please. She’s dangerous and unstable.”

“But Zacariel, maybe she’s stalking me because she wants to talk to me.”

He shook his head in dismay. “Don’t be too kindhearted with other people. If she wanted to talk to you, she would’ve done that from the very beginning.”

He is right. Wala lang din akong maisip na tamang rason para sundan niya ako. Kundi, ang kagustuhan niya lang siguro na makausap ako. Pero paano namin gagawin ang pag uusap kung gano’n siya kasama makatingin sa akin? Na kulang nalang ay sumugat sa balat ko ang talas ng mga mata niya.

“Let me handle this matter. Starting tomorrow, you will have your guard with you.”

“Hindi ba nakakahiya sa mga Villamor na may guard ako?”

“No worries. I will have a call with Branth later about it.”

Ganito siya kabilis gumawa ng aksyon para sa seguridad ko. He has a direct contact with the bosses of Villamor Air. I am amazed with his connections. Probably, this is business world works. Kailangan nila ng maraming koneksyon at pagkukuhanan ng kahit ano mang impormasyon. Money, power, and influence are very important to stay on top.

Aisha is curious when she noticed the guard that roaming around outside our office. I am not sure if that’s my guard but maybe, yes. Dahil wala naman siya dati.

“Did the Villamors assigned a guard here?”

I shrugged my shoulders. “Maybe?”

“Why? Aren’t we safe here?”

“I don’t know? Maybe that’s their new policy.”

I don’t want Aisha to know that I have this privilege to have my own guard in my work place. Nagawan talaga ni Zacariel ng paraan ang tungkol dito. Hindi ko mapigilan ang huwag mamangha. Ganito siya kalapit sa mga Villamor?

Napatunayan ko na may nagbabantay nga sa akin no’ng uwian na namin. Dahil sumunod siya sa amin ni Aisha. Hindi siya nagsasalita. Sa malayo siya nakatingin.

“Ang gwapo ng bantay mo, Yelena.” Aisha shrieked beside me.

“Type mo?” tukso ko sa kanya.

“Oo! Ganyan mga gusto ko. Malaki katawan at halatang masungit. Siguro sa kama, babalibagin ako niyan.”

I laughed with her. Naka angkla ang braso niya sa akin at niyuyogyog ako sa tuwing kinikilig siya.

“Binalibag ka na ba ni Zacariel sa kama? Nakita ko kahapon, ang laki rin ng katawan niya. Nasasarapan ka ba kapag kumakapit ka sa braso niya?”

“Aisha!” I glared at her beside me.

“Grabe siya, oh! Akala mo naman virgin pa…”

“Maingat siya sa akin. Pero may pagkakataon na medyo rough din dala siguro ng emosyon—” I was cut off when she screamed in a controlled way.

“Ang sexy mo pa naman! Siguradong sarap na sarap din sa ’yo ’yang boyfriend mo!”

Pabiro ko siyang kinurot sa bewang. “Alam mo, mag boyfriend ka na nga. Para hindi ako ang pinag uusapan natin.”

“Sasagutin ko na si Noris. Gusto ko rin naman siya. Hindi ko na patatagalin pa ’to.”

“Kapag sinagot mo siya, magpapa inom ako sa Friday. Let’s celebrate that.”

“Thank you, huh! Sasabihan kita agad kapag sinagot ko na siya.”

Habang palabas kami sa building, wala sa sarili na tinatanaw ko kung saan namin nakita kahapon ang babae. Sa pagkakataon na ito, wala siya o baka lumipat lang ng puwesto.

“Wala ’yong stalker mo? Nakita yata na may bantay ka…” Aisha murmured.

Mabuti kung gano’n. Sana naman hindi na siya magpakita sa akin.

“Sa Cafe muna ako. Ikaw ba? Uuwi na kayo?” Tanong ni Aisha.

Tumingin ako sa bantay ko. He’s tall and big. “Is Rodelo close by?”

“Yes, Ma’am.”

“Malapit na ang sundo ko, Aisha. Hindi na kita masasamahan sa Café.”

“Okay lang. Itetext ko nalang si Noris na puntahan ako sa Cafe.”

Nagyakap kami bago siya naglakad palayo sa akin. Ang mga sasakyan na huminto sa harap ko ay pansamantala lang. Umaalis din agad. I simply roam around my eyes, trying to see if the girl was just somewhere…

Ang bilis nang pangyayari. Halos hindi ko nasundan. Nakarinig ako nang sigawan at nagkagulo ang mga tao sa paligid.

“Yelena!” I heard Aisha’s voice somewhere.

Hinanap ko ang boses niya sa kabila nang biglang gulo. Ngunit ang hindi ko inaasahan ay makita sa bandang likuran ko ang babae. She’s holding a knife, but she couldn’t go near me because my guard was jailing her.

“You! Slut!” She spatted at me.

Napatingin sa akin ang mga naroon. Halos lahat ay empleyado ng Villamor Air. Nakita ko ang mga bulungan nila.

“You took away the man that I love! Because you are selfish and a fucking spoiled brat! You ruined my life! You destroyed our relationship!” She accused me with so much anger in her.

Nanlilisik ang mga mata niya. Galit na galit siya sa akin. At kung hindi siya hawak ng bantay ko, siguradong sinugod niya na ako.

“I don’t know what you are talking about—”

“Liar! Of course you knew! Stop playing innocent!”

“I don’t know you!”

“You fucking know me! You took away Khalid from me! We were supposed to get married! But what did you do, huh?! Kinuha mo siya sa akin! Kayo! Ang pamilya mo! Mga mukha kayong pera! Putang ina mo!”

Napaatras ako. Ramdam na ramdam ko ang matinding poot niya sa akin. Na halos masugatan ako sa talim ng titig niya at sa paraan kung paano niya ibato sa akin ang mga paratang niya.

“Malandi ka! You were just a minor and yet you wanted to get married! Saan mo kinukuha ang kapal ng mukha mo?! Saan mo kinuha ang lakas ng loob mo para mantra ng isang relasyon?! You were like your mother, slut!”

I gasped. I knew the gossip before about my mother. But I didn’t expect I’d hear it from this bitch. Kahit na hindi perpekto si mommy sa akin bilang magulang ko, hindi ko pa rin hahayaan na maliitin siya ng kung sino lang.

“My mother is not a slut—”

“Yes, she is! Sa sobrang ambisyosa niya na mabuhay ng mayaman, she seduced your father! Even if he had a girlfriend back then!”

I pity her. Obviously, she doesn’t know what she’s talking about. My parents were a proof of our family tradition. Hindi nila gusto ang isa’t isa dati. They just fell in love eventually. That’s the story that I know.

“And you!” pilit niya akong dinuduro ngunit hindi siya magtagumpay dahil malakas ang pagkakahawak sa kanya ng guard ko. “Wala kang pinagkaiba sa nanay mong puta!”

Hindi ko na kaya na sigaw sigawan niya ako at idamay pa ang nanay ko. Lumapit ako sa kanya. Kumakalabog ang dibdib ko dahil sa namumuong galit. Wala akong kasalanan. Hindi ko alam na may girlfriend si Khalid. Ni hindi ko alam na siya pala ang napili na ipakasal sa akin.

Kaya bakit ako ang tinatamaan ng matatalim na bato ngayon? Bakit sa akin ipinupukol ang mga paratang na dapat ay hindi naman?

“My mom is not a bitch. You have no idea about my parents’ history. I am not gonna get mad at you though. Instead, I pity you.” I said bitterly.

Sa likuran nila, nakita ko ang paparating pa na mga gwardiya. Sa malayo, narinig ko rin ang wangwang ng pulis.

Namumula ang mga mata niya sa labis na galit niya sa akin. Namumuo ang mga luha niya. Ang kanyang mga kamay ay nanginginig.

Hindi ako mabait. Kanina, gusto ko siyang sampalin dahil sa mga masasakit na salitang ibinato niya sa akin. Pero sa pagkakataon na ito, naaawa na ako sa kanya. Alam ko ang pakiramdam ng masaktan. Danas ko ang hapdi nang mawasak ang puso ko. At kahit ilang gabi kong i-iyak ang pagkadurog, hindi ’yon maghihilom ng gano’n lang kadali.

“I’m not gonna married Khalid. I will never marry him…” nahinto ako dahil nakita ko ang pag bagsak ng mga luha niya.

My heart is pounding. I have this bitter feeling inside of me that I couldn’t explain. But I need to let her know my thoughts. I know that she needs this closure. Kukunin ko ang pagkakataon na ito para bigyan siya ng kalinawan sa isip niya. At sana sa ganitong paraan, gumaling siya… maghilom siya.

“Hindi ako magpapakasal sa lalaking hindi ko mahal. Handa akong suwayin ang pamilya ko huwag lang matali sa isang relasyon na una palang ay hindi ko na gusto. I didn’t know that Khalid has a girlfriend until he told me about you. He really wanted to fix things with you but you didn’t talk to him…”

Natutunaw ng paunti unti ang galit sa mga mata niya. Ngunit patuloy ang pag landas ng luha sa kanyang pisngi.

“I didn’t know you. But I feel you… I understand the pain. I hope you will get through all that. I hope for your healing. I hope for your fast recovery. And I hope you and Khalid will fix your relationship.”

Natulala ako habang pinapanood siyang hawak ng mga pulis at ipainasok sa mobile patrol.

“Yelena! Okay ka lang?” Aisha hugged me.

I blinked. What did just happen?

“Yelena!” I heard Zacariel’s voice.

Kumalas sa akin si Aisha para bigyan ng lugar si Zacariel sa akin. Hinawakan niya ang magkabilang braso ko. I cannot look at him in the eyes. I was too stunned. Niyakap niya ako.

Hindi ako nakapagsalita agad. Malakas pa rin ang tibok ng aking puso. I am not terrified. I am feeling guilty… for the reason that I didn’t know. It wasn’t clear to me.

“Let’s go. I’ll take you home.” He opened a door for me.

Pumasok ako at naupo. When Zacariel drives away from that building, that’s when I realized that I have been holding back my tears. Walang patawad na bumagsak ang mga luha sa aking pisngi na nagpalabo sa aking paningin.

The car suddenly stopped and I felt Zacariel’s warm embrace on my body. My shoulders were shaking and my sobs echoed.

“Hush… baby…” marahan na alo niya sa akin habang hinahaplos ang aking likod.

Ilang minuto akong umiyak. Ilang minuto kong inilabas ang takot, pait, at lungkot. I didn’t mean to hurt other people’s feelings and I failed to that. Ngayon, isang babae ang nasaktan dahil sa akin. Kahit na hindi ko ito kasalanan, apektado ako. Dinadamdam ko ang nangyari at ang mga paratang sa akin.

“I am not a slut! I didn’t ruin their relationship! “ I wailed with a broken voice.

“You are not. And you didn’t ruin anything,” he whispered tenderly against my temple.

Hindi totoo ang mga ipinukol niya sa akin, pero kahit pa gano’n, hindi ko kayang tanggapin ang lahat ng ’yon. Pero wala akong magawa ngayon dahil kahit gustuhin ko man magalit sa kanya, mas nangingibabaw ang awa ko dahil alam ko ang pinagdadaanan niya.

Akala ko, masama akong tao. Pero bakit nasasaktan ako para sa iba? Bakit imbes na magalit ako, naawa pa ako at nasaktan pa para sa kanya?

“Hindi pala ako masama,” nalulungkot na sambit ko habang lumuluha. “Akala ko masama ako.”

“Hindi ka masama,” he kisses my tears away. “My baby is too gentle… too sweet… too fragile…”

Mas lalo akong naiyak dahil ganito pala ang tingin niya sa akin. Dahil akala ko, maldita ako, matigas ang ulo, masama, at suwail. Pero para sa kanya, hindi.

“You don’t deserve this pain. You deserve to be loved, to be taken care of, and to be cherished everyday,” he said so sweetly it makes me sleepy.

I sobbed like a child who got hurt because I stumbled.

“Mahal kita…” he whispered tenderly against my trembling lips.

My tears pooled my eyes again because of the sudden happiness I am feeling right now. I’ve been waiting to hear this from him. Ilang taon akong naghintay na marinig ang mga salitang ito galing mismo sa kanya. Na akala ko ay sa ilusyon ko lang mangyayari ito. Pero heto at tinupad niya na naman ang lihim na pangarap ko.

Of all the places and situations, he has chosen to say these words for me right now when I am in mess. How would I even react to this? It was the very first time he told me he loves me and I wasn’t ready for my heart’s reaction. It raced like crazy, that it hurts me.

“You are like a chain that clings around me, I can’t break myself free from you,” his low voice was intoxicating.

31 ~ PREGNANT

CHAPTER THIRTY ONE

“You know, you had my heart broken. You made me cry. You rejected me so hard, I was in pain.” I wailed.

I am probably emotional right now because I will have period for this month. Hindi ko na sana maiisip pa ang tungkol dito dahil masaya naman ako sa relasyon namin. Pero matagal na rin kasi no’ng huli kaming nagkatampuhan. It felt like aside from I wanted him to know how broken I was when he rejected me, I also wanted to cry now.

Maybe I am becoming petty. Wala talaga kaming problema ngayon ni Zacariel. I moved on with what happened between my and Khalid’s ex-girlfriend. Nagpatuloy ako sa pagtapos ng internship ko. Our life together continue as well. Sadyang gusto ko lang talaga na mag away kami ngayon. Sana hindi ko ito pagsisihan mamaya.

Nakaupo ako sa gilid ng swimming pool. Nakababad ang mga paa sa tubig. I am wearing a black two piece.

Zacariel was doing a freestyle swimming, back and forth. Gabi na at may oras pa kami bago matulog. Swimming is one of our way to exercise. Hindi ako mahilig mag exercise, pero nahawa na ako sa kanya. He also has his own gym room here. Tuwing umaga, naroon siya.

He took a deep breath as he watched me with soulful eyes. He’s in between my thighs. He really made his way to me.

“Baby, because you were very young that time. What do you want me to do, hmm?” malambing na sabi niya.

Napanguso ako ng bahagya. Hindi ako dapat magpadala sa paglalambing niyang ito. Humalukipkip ako. Kailangan kong panindigan itong walang kabuluhan kong pagtatampo.

“You could’ve said, I will marry here when she turned eighteen!”

“Well, eighteen is still young to get married…” he caresses my waist.

Nalukot ang mukha ko. Unti-unti na yata akong nagagalit. Totoo na yata ito.

“Then, when are we going to get married?”

“Good question. Now, let’s talk about it. First, I want you to finish your internship, get your diploma, and take fashion design…”

Masasabi na bang nahihibang ako kung ang kaninang namumuong galit, ay biglang naglaho?

“Are you that willing to wait?”

“Kung ikaw ang hihintayin ko, bakit hindi?”

I can’t take this! I need to stay mad at him! Pinanliitan ko siya ng mga mata. Sarili ko na ngayon ang kalaban ko. Umismid ako.

“Paano ko malalaman na tunay ’yang mga sinasabi mo?”

“Time will tell, Yelena. I can’t promise you anything now. But I am certain that you are the only one I wanna be with,” he muttered gently.

Napalunok ako para lang itulak ang namumuong damdamin sa aking lalamunan. The way my heart pounded hard could choke me. Ang galing niya talaga. Napakadali lang sa kanya na pawiin ang kung anomang agam-agam ko.

“So, balewala lang lahat ng heartbreak at luha ko dati?” I sighed bitterly.

“Hindi ’yon balewala. It was part of you. It was included while you grow up—to experience heartbreaks or to cry because of pain. Lahat ng tao nababasag, umiiyak…”

“Umiyak ka na ba? Nabasag ka na ba?”

I doubt it. He probably made girls cry and heartbroken, but he never experienced any of it.

“Nabasag… oo…” he looks at me with sorrow.

The water from the tip of his hair was flowing down his cheek to his prominent jaw.

“Talaga? Kailan?”

His lips formed a smirk. I know it. He wouldn’t tell me. But I wanna know!

“Zacariel… sabihin mo na…” udyok ko sa kanya sabay haplos sa balikat niya.

Nag isang linya ang kanyang labi. His eyes squinted, as if he was accusing me of something.

“Sino naman ang maswerteng babae na bumasag sa ’yo?” I arched my eyebrow.

Imagine, having Zacariel Guerrera’s heart broken? He must be really in love that time! Who the hell was that woman, huh? Was it Francha?

“Ayaw mong sabihin? Hindi naman ako magseselos ’no! Past na ’yon. I am your present now. Bakit naman ako magseselos do’n!”

“Oo nga naman. Bakit ka magseselos?” napapaos na sambit niya habang lumalapat ang labi sa aking dibdib.

Nakalimutan ko na na gusto kong mag away kami! Paano ba ’to? Baka kapag patuloy niya akong hinalikan, mawawala ang walang saysay na galit ko sa kanya.

“Zacariel, umiyak ka na ba dahil sa isang babae?”

“Hindi.”

“Kapag namatay ako, iiyak ka?”

He paused from kissing my my cleavage. Tiningala niya ako. His eyes sharpened.

“Nagtatanong lang naman ako…” Bakit siya galit?

“I don’t like that kind of question, Yelena.”

“Okay. But answer me!”

“I won’t cry. But your lost will shatter me… deeply, painfully…” he clenched his jaw.

Hinaplos ko ang panga niya. Nangingiti ako dahil sa sinabi niya. Pero halata na galit siya. Masaya na ako na malaman ang sagot niya. Hindi siya iiyak, pero madudurog siya sa malalim at masakit na paraan.

“And who broke your heart?” I continued.

Suplado niya akong tinignan. Lumayo siya ng bahagya. He was about to swim again but I stopped him though jailing her with my legs. His lips parted slightly.

“I want us to talk. Mamaya ka na mag swimming.”

“If you’re going to talk about deaths, then I don’t want it.”

“Hindi. I will talk about our future together. Sige na, mag usap tayo tungkol sa gagawin natin kapag tapos na ang internship ko. Can we travel?”

Nakuha kong muli ang pagiging interesado niya. Bumalik siya sa kanına posisyon niya. Inilapag niya sa bewang ko ang isang palad niya, ang isa naman ay nasa ibabaw ng aking tiyan.

“Where do you wanna go?” he sounded like he will do everything that I want.

“I wanna go to Switzerland. Can we do it?”

When he nodded his head, I shrieked in excitement. I cupped his jaw and kissed his lips out of my happiness.

Ang sanang maiksing halik ay tumagal. I found myself kissing Zacariel’s torridly with our tongues tasting each others. I am whimpering in between our kisses. I am drowned with the way his tongue moves inside my mouth. He’s exploring every corner, he’d suck my tongue, then he’d bite my lips.

Namumungay ang mga mata ko nang huminto kami. I bushed when I realized that he’s still massaging my breasts. Ang plano ko na awayin sana siya kanina ay naglaho na. I am now clouded by a pleasure I cannot resist.

Time flies like a whirlwind. After I got my diploma, we spent our summer in Switzerland. When we came back, I pursued fashion design. Nasa tamang agos ang buhay ko, ang mga pangarap ko ay unti-unti kong naabot. I thought I won’t have the chance to achieve my dream to study fashion design, but Zacariel made it possible. He was the one who helped me with all my needs while I was studying. Kung hindi dahil sa kanya, hindi ko magagawa ang lahat ng ito.

When I got my bachelor degree in FDM, I promised myself that I will marry Zacariel first, have a baby, before I will build my own boutique. He made me feel that everything is possible. Hindi ako nangangamba na hindi ko magagawa ang mga ito dahil alam kong nakasuporta siya sa akin.

This time, I want to focus with us… with our relationship. I am ready to be his wife and to have our first child. I am just lucky because he didn’t pressure me to do all of these. Her really waited for me to achieved my dreams. Hindi siya naging madamot sa akin. Hindi siya nagsawa na palalahanan ako na mahalaga na maabot ko ang mga pangarap ko. Because a life where dreams were achieved, is a life that is worth living for.

I rolled on our bed when I felt something weird in my stomach. Napilitan akong bumangon dahil umaakyat sa aking lalamunan ang kung ano. I hurriedly went to the bathroom and throw up. Napangiwi ako at napahawak sa sink ng puro pagduwal lang ang nagagawa ko.

“What happened?” I heard Zacariel’s raspy voice behind me.

Namimilog ang mga mata ko at namumuo ang mga luha nang hindi ko makontrol ang tila pag aalburoto ng kung ano sa loob ng aking tiyan. I am feeling so weak. I just want this to stop!

I felt Zacariel’s warm palm above my stomach, while he’s gathering my hair with his other hand.

“Didn’t you have your shot?” he sounded confused.

Mariin akong pumikit nang maalala na hindi ko na itinuloy iyon. Pakiramdam ko ay lalo akong nanghina nang matanto na baka… buntis ako!

“I stopped it…” I croaked.

He chuckled. “You’re pregnant then.”

He was so sure that it made my face heated. It’s possible. We are active, young, and healthy. And he didn’t know that I stopped my shot. So…

After I brushed my teeth, I turned around to face him. I don’t wanna look at him. I weakly rested my body on his. Hinaplos niya agad ang aking buhok at hinalikan ang ibabaw ng ulo ko.

“I still want to sleep…”

“Don’t you wanna take a pregnancy test?”

“I don’t have one.”

“I have some boxes hidden.”

I rolled my eyes. “Hindi halatang handa ka, huh?”

“Gusto mo bang subukan o mas gusto mong matulog?”

“Tulog…” I can always do the test when I wake up.

Zacariel brought me back to our bed. It’s still very early. We will go to Hacienda Guerrera today. I still have a couple of hours to sleep before we leave.

“Buntis na ang asawa ko,” he murmured against my cheek.

Tila may apoy na sumaboy sa aking pisngi. Kahit nakapikit na ako, napapangiti pa rin. Ang palad niya ay humahaplos sa aking tiyan. It felt so comforting. Ramdam na ramdam ko na gusto niya itong pagbubuntis ko.

“Humanda ka sa ’kin kapag naglihi ako.” I playfully whispered.

“I can’t wait for that day…”

“I suddenly crave for coconut juice. But I want the one from Hacienda.”

“We’ll satisfy your cravings.”

Ngumiti ako at tumango. I made myself sleep again. Kaya lang, nagising akong masama ulit ang pakiramdam. I need to get use to this morning sickness. We are not expecting to have a baby this year, because we have plan to get married first. But I guess, there are really things that happened beyond our control.

Magiliw kong pinagmamasdan si Zariel sa pagkuha niya ng buko para sa akin. Nandito ulit kami sa coconut plantation nila. Tuwing umaga o hapon, nagpupunta kami rito para lang makainom ako ng fresh buko juice.

“Senyorita, lalo kang gumaganda…” bati sa akin ng isa sa mga trabahador doon.

Mababait ang mga tao sa amin. Palagi silang natutuwa sa tuwing naroon kami. Asikasong asikaso rin ako. Kaya tuloy mas gusto ko rito sa Hacienda, kumpara sa Casa Alta. Madalas pa rin naman kaming bumisita roon ni Zacariel. But we don’t really stay for a night. I prefer to sleep in his bedroom.

Inspired po kasi ako. Ang gwapo kasi ng asawa ko!“ I beamed.

Naghagikhikan sila. “Siyempre naman! At bagay na bagay kayong dalawa ni senyorito Zacariel! Kayo talaga ang itinadhana sa isa’t isa.”

“Akala ko nga po hindi kami, eh.”

“Bakit naman?” nagtataka sila.

I just gave them a warm smile. I then took a deep breath as I remembered the time I heard him saying those words…

Naramdaman ko na na kaya kami babalik sa Hacienda Guerrera ay dahil kakausapin ulit nila mommy si Zacariel. Ayoko na sanang sumama. But my mother won’t leave without me. Magagalit din sa akin si daddy kung mananatili ang pagiging suwail ko sa bagay na ito. I don’t think I need to hear whatever Zacariel would say. I just felt like… he won’t do it.

Guerreras can stand by their own. They don’t need other family or company to build an empire. They already have one and it keeps on growing. Guerreras Coconut Plantation is one of the largest producer of coconut in the country. They are big in exporting too. They are known in southeast Asia countries. They don’t really need Altamontes. But my parents are still forcing our tradition and try to have Zacariel get involved.

My hands were shaking while sitting at the library room with my parents, Donya Zarita, Don Patricio, and Zacariel. I know, he’s not into this. I can see darkness on his eyes. Siguro, kaya lang siya nagpunta ngayon ay para na rin magbigay respeto sa aming mga magulang.

Ayokong umasa na papayag siya. Kahit pa may pinagsamahan na kami… kahit pa may kababalaghan kaming ginawa sa Querencia. Alam kong hindi sapat ang mga ’yon para lang pumayag siya na magpakasal sa akin.

I cannot look at him in the eyes. Hindi naman ako ang pumilit sa magulang ko na siya ang piliin para sa akin. Maybe, they knew that I am infatuated with him. Kaya kahit na alam naman din nila na hindi nagpapakasal ang mga Guerrera dahil lang sa tradition at negosyo, sinubukan pa rin nila ito.

Suntok sa buwan itong ginagawa ng magulang ko. Hindi lang kaba ang nararamdaman ko, kundi hiya na rin. I am just seventeen. And here I am, in front of these people, asking a man to marry me. I hope, I could stay longer here. Otherwise, I’d back out.

“Zacariel, I know, you are aware about our family tradition—the fixed-marriage. We are here to offer you, Yelena’s hands… to marry in exchange of…” my father trailed off.

I controlled my gasp. My heart was pounding so hard against my chest and every beat pained me. Nakayuko lang ako. I don’t want to look at them… to any of them.

“I really appreciate you coming here, Tita, Tito, and Yelena. I do respect your family tradition…” Zacariel muttered darkly.

I silently took a deep breath. My heart knew… he wouldn’t accept my parents’ offer. Kaya hindi ko alam kung bakit narito pa rin ako kahit na alam ko naman na tatanggi siya.

“… but I don’t want to get married yet. And I respectfully declined the offer. I am sorry.”

Pumikit ako ng mariin. Wala akong narinig na kahit na anong salita sa kahit na sino sa aming mga magulang.

Zacariel Guerrera just declined the offer to marry me. He fucking rejected me.

Inaasahan ko na ito. Ngunit hindi ko akalain na madudurog ang puso ko nang tuluyang marinig mula sa kanya na ayaw niya akong pakasalan.

I stood up and run away even if I heard my Donya Zarita called me. Hindi ko pinansin ang mga kasambahay na tumawag din sa akin. Tumakbo ako palayo sa mansyon ng mga Guerrera. Tuluy-tuloy ang malalaking hakbang ko kasabay nang pagbagsak ng aking mga luha.

I don’t know where I will go… but for damn reason, my feet brought me to the way going to Querencia. Malayo ang tinakbo ko. Walang pakialam sa pananakit ng aking mga paa. Sa mga alikabok na sumalubong sa akin, at sa mga gasgas dahil sa mga halaman na nadaanan.

When I saw the majestic waterfalls, my tears pooled my eyes. Because I remembered our memories here. Our funny conversation, sweet kisses, and gentle stares to each other. Everything that happened here with Zacariel brought wounds in my heart.

Unti-unti akong naglakad papunta sa tubig. Pumikit ako nang yakapin ng lamig ang aking katawan. Kasabay ng agos ng talon, ay ang daloy din ng mga luha sa aking pisngi. I can feel my heart breaking slowly… painfully.

“Yelena!” Zacariel’s voice thundered.

Mabilis na pinalis ko ang aking mga luha. Lumubog pa ako sa tubig para lang mahugasan ang mga mata ko. Ayokong malaman niya na labis akong nasaktan dahil hindi niya tinanggap ang pagpapakasal sana sa akin. Gusto kong iparamdam sa kanya na ayos lang ito. But I don’t know if I can do it.

Umahon ako sa tubig. Hindi ko siya tinignan. I have no reason to see him or to talk to him. Wala rin rason para magkita pa kami. Hindi ako masokista.

“I declined the offer because—”

“I don’t need to hear your reason because I know it, Zacariel. I know it from my heart!” I bitterly said.

Hindi niya ako gusto. Hindi niya nakikita sa akin na magiging asawa niya ako. Hindi siya ang tipo ng lalaki na susunod sa utos ng iba kung ayaw niya naman talaga. His principle is unbreakable. And that’s admirable. But please, I don’t want to hear more words from him that could kill my heart.

“Tang ina,” he cursed under his breath.

Naglakad ako pabalik sa gubat. Kahit malayo itong lalakarin ko pabalik, hinding-hindi ako sasakay sa kabayo niya. My feet were aching. I looked down to check. I saw some wounds and cuts already.

“Sumakay ka na. Ibabalik kita sa mansyon,” Zacariel told me while walking with Silencio.

I didn’t look at him. I didn’t talk to him. I pretend that he didn’t exist.

Madilim na nang makabalik kami sa mansyon nila. Nag aabang sa akin sila mommy. Agad akong pumasok sa sasakyan namin. Tahimik kaming tatlo nang bumiyahe pabalik sa Casa Alta.

Nang nasa loob na ako ng aking kwarto, humiga ako at tahimik na umiyak.

I blinked when I felt my tears threatened my eyes. I had to take a deep breath to stop my heart from beating painfully as I remembered what happened that day…

“Hala, bakit ka umiiyak, senyorita Yelena? May masakit ba sa ’yo? Hindi mo ba gusto ang buko juice mo?” Nag aalalang tanong nila sa akin.

Nakita ko ang malalaking hakbang ni Zacariel palapit sa akin. Agad kong pinunasan ang luha sa aking mga mata at pilit na ngumiti sa kanya.

“What’s wrong with my baby?” masuyo niyang tanong sabay pahid ng luha sa aking pisngi.

I shook my head and pursed my lips because a soft soft sobs escaped.

“Are you okay? Are you hurt?”

Suminghot ako dahil talagang bigla akong nasaktan nang maalala ang pagkadurog ng puso ko noon dahil sa kanya… dahil sa rejection niya.

“Let’s go back—” he was cut off when I hugged him.

Tahimik akong umiiyak kahit na masaya naman ako dahil kasama ko siya. My pregnancy hormones are really taking over me now.

“Okay lang ako. Masaya ako.” I croaked.

“And why are you crying?”

“Because I’m pregnant and very emotional.” I pouted.

Hinalikan niya ang noo ko at niyakap pa lalo. Napangiti ako sa kabila ng aking mga luha.

I want this life with him so much because I dreamed of this. Lihim akong nangarap na isang araw, sana kami namang dalawa… sana walang humadlang… at sana maging totoo ang dati ay ilusyon ko lang.

I want this life with him because this is what living means to me… breathing the same air with the man I love, loving the life that was given to us, and cherishing every moments that we have shared together.

Gusto kong manatiling nakayakap sa kanya, tila kadena na hindi na makakalas pa.

EPILOGUE

EPILOGUE

I’ve always found it strange to like a girl who’s years younger than me. I found it more weird when I have witnessed my brothers going crazy over girls who are even younger than our sisters.

I am into a woman who is my age. I am into somebody who is intelligent and know what they wanted in life. I didn’t want young girls. I didn’t dislike them, but I just knew I didn’t wanna get involved with them. But when Yelena Altamonte has started to show her desire to have me, that’s when I realized I fucked up—so hard, I couldn’t get out.

Nanliliit ang mga mata ko habang pinapanood siya at pinapakinggan ang mga sinasabi niya. We are here in Querencia, she’s enjoying the cold water that leveled her chest while I am leaning against the stone. Her forest green two piece bikini really emphasized her milky skin. Her long hair is now in wet slick back that revealed her classic beauty—that always enchanted me.

Her eyes were dominantly light brown. I noticed that the color changes defended on the light around her. Right now, under the sepia hues of late afternoon sunlight, her golden-brown eyes were twinkling while she’s dreamily painting our life together through the motions of her plum lips.

“… then, we will have another child after three years, what do you think? For me, that age gap is fine. Siguro naglalakad na ang panganay natin kapag tatlong taon gulang na siya. Kaya pwede na ulit akong mag buntis…”

I pursed my lips to stop myself from smiling.

Yelena always thought that her life with me would be perfect. Perfect is just a word but it didn’t exist in any circumstances. I am imperfect. But I guess, she has pictured me as a perfect man in her mind.

I was controlling myself not to pull her closer to me, because I wanted to hear more her thoughts about us and our future together. In that way, I’d know how to satisfy her and how to turn her dreams into reality.

“Pero gusto ko, kapag buntis ako, palagi akong nasa tabi mo…”

“You can’t be so sure about that. Paano kung ayaw mo akong makita?” I taunted.

Kumibot ang mapulang labi niya. Medyo nalubog siya sa pag iisip. Ngunit agad din na nakaahon. Her beautiful face brightened.

“Oo nga ’no? Paano kapag naglilihi ako? Tapos ayaw pala kitang makita?”

“We’ll know about it once you get pregnant.” I smirked when I saw her blushed.

Nag iwas siya ng tingin sa akin. How ironic that I always caught her feeling shy whenever we talked about sex and her pregnancy. When in fact, she’s the one who is very aggressive about all of these.

First and foremost, all I wanted for her is to really achieve her goals in life. I have been clear about it since day one. I will support her in everything that she wants to fulfill. I won’t stop her since I know the value of having your dreams achieved.

I can always wait for us because I am certain that I will have her in this lifetime. I have dedicated my life with her, my loyalty, and commitment. I have a clear images in my head of my future with her.

There’s nothing I cannot conquer when it comes to her. I can even ruin two companies business deals so that I can have her. I can even destroy two prominent families’ relationship just to make sure I will have her with me.

“You’re blushing…” I teased her.

Yelena leered at me. She was trying so hard to get back our eye contact. I won’t get tired watching every emotions on her face. It amused me every time she’s uncomfortable and shy.

I lifted my one hand, wrapped her around her waist and carefully pulled her back to me. Our toes almost touched under the cold water, her breasts pressed against my chest, and her warm breath was hitting my neck. I clenched my jaw as I felt affected with the way her breath brushes my skin.

Napasinghap siya ng bahagya. Kalaunan ay ipinatong niya ang mga braso sa magkabilang balikat ko. She purses her lips while staring at me. I couldn’t really focus on your eye contact because I got distracted at the sight of her breasts in front of me.

The thin veins were sexily tempting me. I see some faded kiss mark on her cleavage that made me smirk.

“Do you like my boobs?” she playfully smiled at me.

I creased my thick eyebrows. I don’t want her to think that I only want her because of her body. It’s just a bonus that she has a perfect curves, perky boobs, and slender legs. This feeling I have for her is deeper than the river, stronger than the waterfalls, and hotter than the sun.

She seductively caresses the faded kiss mark with her index finger.

“Faded na ang kiss marks from you. Would you like to add new ones?” This time, I know that she’s intentionally flirting with me.

Hinaplos ko ang bewang niya. Her eyes dilated with desire right away. Napalunok siya at agad na nadadala sa simpleng haplos ko lang. Like her, I easily get carried away every time she’s flirting with me. She has this side that always caught me off guard. I always found myself being tempted by her.

“Would you like me to?”

A naughty smile formed her lips. “Yeah…”

I growled painfully.

She really have me around her fingers. She knows how to play this game with me. She probably realized that she can easily seduced me. And now, she’s using it for her own advantage. This lil temptress is always testing the greatness of my self-restraint.

“You’re such a beautiful temptation I couldn’t resist…” I whispered against her earlobe.

Yelena giggled. Then she stroked my nape in a sensual way which give me boner. It was painful to stay composed and relaxed, while she’s seducing me like this.

“I am your chain of temptation… I won’t stop until I have you wrapped around me completely.” She whispered sexily.

I smirked. I said, I would fall for a girl who knows what she wanted. Yelena Altamonte has proven me that she’s the girl that I would fall for. Because ever since, she knows what she wanted, what her dreams, and who she wants to be with. And that is me.

Probably, she manifested so hard to make all of these happened. While I was busy building my career, having my name known, and preparing for my future, she was busy manifesting and dreaming to have a life with me, she was focused on turning her dreams into reality one day, and she was using her beauty against me, to tempt me to marry her.

She was like a chain of temptation who successfully wrapped herself around me. To be tied with her… to marry her was another chain that tempted me.

I am stuck with her and I have no reason to break free from her. I would like these chains to cling on me for the rest of me life.

“I desire to have this chain clings on me everyday.” I said tenderly as I have started to kiss her neck.

Yelena’s sexy moans only heightened my thirst to claim her until she’d realize that from this moment on, she will only moan for me, she will only kiss me, because she has me completely.

I lifted her and put her above the stone. She was panting when I parted her slender legs. I am standing in front of her, half of my body is under the water, while having a fucking boner.

“Zacariel…” hinaplos niya ang buhok ko nang umpisahan kong halikan ang magkabilang hita niya.

I want to take this moment with her. I want it slow and romantic as possible. But knowing her, I also know that she would year for more. And I am always willing to fill her needs.

I buried my face on her inner thigh and kiss her flesh through the fabric of her bikini bottom.

“Hmmmm…” she rocks her hips sensually, seducing me more. “Eat me, please…”

My lips formed a smile. It was very easy to please her. Tila ako nawawala sa sarili sa tuwing naririnig ko ang mga hinaing at daing niya habang sinasamba ko siya.

I slide her bikini bottom for me to see what made me crazy. I swallowed hard when I got the glimpse of her rosy femininity… it always tempted me, it always made me hungry. It always seemed ready to be devour by me.

I stuck out my tongue and licked her throbbing nub. One flicked, and I heard her whimpered like she was in ecstasy. I focused on this part because I knew the sensation made her lose her mind.

“Ohh, Zacariel… that’s feels… damn… mmmm….”

I felt her thighs trembled as I continued to play her cl*t with the tip of my tongue. I am so tempted to suck it, but I wanted her to feel the pleasure longer. Before I will make her reach her climax.

Her moans only gives me reason to keep punishing her with my tongue. I had to pin her stomach down so she will stay still. She’s writhing and her breathing has became heavy.

“Zacariel… ang sarap…” nahihibang na sambit niya habang hinaplos ang buhok ko.

I watched how her cl*t get reddish because I licked enough. I buried my lips on it and started to suck it which made her moan louder and wilder. I smirked inwardly as I continued to devour her throbbing nub.

“Zacariel! You sipsip it so hard! Uhh! Mmm!”

I chuckled while its inside my mouth. Hindi ko tinigilan at tinagalan pa hanggang sa manginig ang mga hita niya ng husto.

“Shit! I’m gonna cum! Baby! Mmm! I’m gonna cum!” she yelled like she was losing herself.

My eyes shut closed when she squirted on my face.

Yelena was panting and her body was trembling a bit. My kisses went up on her thighs, down to her legs, and toes.

“Grabe ka!” Para siyang maiiyak.

“Why?”

My lips traveled up to her flat stomach. I tenderly kissing her there.

“You sipsip so much talaga…” she pursed her lips. “What if my… uh, get swollen? Huh?”

To check what worries her, I moved to see her femininity. I winced when I saw that she’s still throbbing and its really getting reddish. Marahan na dinampian ko ng halik at agad siyang napaigtad.

“Zacariel!” She gasped in disbelief.

“Just a kiss. I’ll do some massage later.” I comforted her with that.

“No massage. I know what kind of massage you were talking about.”

Humalakhak ako.

“Ibang massage naman ang ginagawa mo, eh,” sabi niya pa.

“How about a massage using my fingers? Hmm?”

I helped her get up. She’s so flushed. But there’s a bright glow around her which added to her beauty. I fixed her bikini top because her breasts are too full, the small fabric cannot fully accommodate them. I sighed.

“Maybe…” she gave me a small smile.

“Let’s bring you to the cabana.”

“Let me wash first…” she giggled.

We stayed for another minutes under the water. When both satisfied, we went back to our cabana. We are going to stay for a night. It’s getting dark. It’s becoming more and more peaceful.

With Yelena in my arms, I wouldn’t ask for more but a life where all dreams were achieved.

“Congratulations with this new milestone, hija. I am very happy because instead of choosing a marriage life at early age, you have chosen to fulfill your dreams in fashion design. I am proud of you.” My mother gives Yelena a warm embrace.

“Thank you, Mama. This wouldn’t happen if Zacariel didn’t support me.” She sweetly hugs my arm.

I smirked when I heard Yelena addressing my mother like how I did. Even though, we are not yet married, my mother already asked her to do it. Because eventually it’s going to be like that.

Mama kissed my cheek. “I will always be proud of you, Zacariel. Mabuti nalang at hindi ka rin nagmadali na magpakasal. Kailan ba ang plano niyo?”

Yelena and I looked at each other. Now, that she’s done taking fashion design, we both decided to get married this year. I am happy for her because I know that she’s fulfilled. Our next step is to focus with our relationship more. I also get tired hearing people calling her Yelena Altamonte.

“We have plan to get married soon, Mama.” I said.

Pumalapak siya. “That’s good to hear, son. I’ve been waiting for that day. Ikaw nalang ang hindi ikinakasal sa inyong magkakapatid. Gusto ko na rin ng apo galing sa inyong dalawa.”

Yelena cleared her throat. I hold onto her arm on mine.

“Uh, I’m pregnant.” She said shyly.

My mother gasped in so much delight. She even get closer to Yelena and caress her flat stomach.

“Kanina lang po namin nalaman. Kaya po pala palaging masama ang pakiramdam ko nitong mga nakalipas na araw.”

I kissed the side of her lips. Her pregnancy wasn’t really intentional. I wanted us to get married first before having a child. Now that she’s pregnant, our wedding will be held soon. So before she gives birth, she already has my name.

“We are going to celebrate two milestones, then!” Mama explained merrily. “Did you tell your parents about this?”

“Not yet, po. But I will call my mom later today to inform her.”

“Do it, hija I want to invite them over dinner tonight.”

Yelana nods her head. I know that she’s sleepy. She cannot just excuse herself because my mother is very enthusiastic.

“Mama, I will let Yelena rest. We’ll see you around.”

“Okay. I am going to get myself busy and prepare for a lil party tonight. Take a rest, Yelena.”

“I will. Thank you, po.”

I brought her to my bedroom. She lazily lay on my bed. I sat beside her and caress her hair.

“Do you wanna eat something?” I asked.

She shook her head. “I just wanna rest. Maybe when I wake up, I’d know what to eat.”

I have noticed that she’s becoming picky with the foods that she eats. She also likes to sleep a lot especially during afternoon. I am grateful that before she gets pregnant, she’s done with her study. She has all the time now to enjoy her pregnancy without worrying with other things.

“Oh, I think, I like coconut juice, please?” lambing niya sa akin.

“Sure. Should I get you one now?”

“No. Later. I wanna go to coconut plantation for that.”

I chuckled. “Whatever you like. We’ll do it.”

“For now, I wanna cuddle with you until I fall asleep…” marahan niya akong hinila para tabihan siya.

Pinanood ko siyang payapang natutulog sa aking tabi. Hindi ako makapaniwala na darating ako sa punto na mahuhulog sa isang babae ng ganito katindi.

I now understood why my brothers are going crazy over their wives. Why my brother in-laws would bend their knees for my sisters’ whims. This love is deeper than I could grasp. It’s beyond my imagination. It’s insane how this mysteriously works.

“I want that one! Please?” Yelena pointed the coconut at the top of the tree.

She’s sitting on the long bamboo chair, looking so lovely and divine with her yellow sunny dress. Nandito kami sa planta. Pagkagising niya palang kanina, nag aya na agad siya. Takam na takam siya at hindi na makapaghintay.

“Bilis! I’m thirsty!”

“Ang cute naman maglihi ni senyorita Yelena!” One of the helpers said.

“Oo nga! Ganyan din noon sila senorita Zalanna at Zakia. Pinahirapan talaga ang mga asawa nila sa pagkuha ng buko at mga mangga.”

“Nakakamiss ang mga senyorita. Mabuti nalang at dinala rito ni senyorito Zacariel si senyorita Yelena.”

“Ang gandang buntis! Ang puti!”

“Ang hilig ng mga senyorito sa mga magaganda at mapuputi!” sabay humagikhik sila.

“Ano po sa tingin niyo ang magiging anak namin? Boy or girl?” Yelena’s voice held with excitement.

“Babae ’yan. Ang ganda mo kasi senyorita! Para kang umiilaw!”

“Babae rin sa tingin ko. Glowing ka kasi, senyorita!”

I came back to her holding a coconut. I put a straw for her to drink easily.

“Thank you!” she smiled at me.

I kissed her temple and sat next to her.

The sun is already setting. I wasn’t always here, but I do see the whole coconut plantation whenever I roam around Hacienda Guerrera with Silencio. I always knew the beauty of being with the nature. It’s just that I didn’t choose to work here. Also my brothers preferred to manage our business here than to be in Manila.

Umihip ang hangin at kasabay nito ay ang pagsayaw ng mga nagtatayugang puno sa aming harap. Sumandal sa akin si Yelena, habang hawak ang buko juice niya at sumisimsim.

“Do you like the ambiance here?” I asked against the side of her head.

“Yes. Can we stay a little bit longer?”

I placed my arm above her shoulder, while my other hand reached her stomach.

“Yeah. We can also go back tomorrow.”

“I wanna stay in Hacienda until I give birth…” her voice was soft, like a melody that always soothed me.

“I will arrange my schedule so I can be with you here. It’s time for my brothers to be in Manila.”

She giggled. “I want our life here with our lil family.”

I want that too. Everything that she wants for us, I’d make sure I would give her.

“I am so in love with this beautiful pregnant…” I whispered lovingly.

Sumiksik siya lalo sa akin. “I love you, my Guerrera.” Malambing na bulong niya.

I brought her to my chest and feel the tranquility of having her with me.

It may be strange to fall for a girl who is years younger than me, but my destiny has proven that what’s meant for me will never pass me by. I am deeply in love with her, I got no power to fight against my own feelings. I will let this love grow everyday, allow it to find the depth of me, and give its freedom to cling on me like my favorite chain.

I rejected her once, made her heart broken, because I had my reasons. Aside from she was a minor, I didn’t want her to be tied on me that early. I didn’t want her to be stuck with me when she can be free. I didn’t want her to feel pressured of having me in her life when she can just live with it even without me. I still didn’t want to marry her even she turned eighteen because she was very young for that kind of responsibility.

I waited for another years and it’s all worth it. Because I got to watched her grow. I witnessed her reached her goals. I saw life in her eyes while she was pursuing her dreams. She was able to fulfill what she thought was missing. She has found the better version of herself. She has a life now that I know she has been dreaming to have.

And for me, the meaning of real success is watching the person you loved succeed. My triumph has no value if I won’t be able to make her dreams came true. Dahil sa kanya, nagkaro’n ng kahulugan ang mga tagumpay ko—sapagkat siya ang ugat ng lahat ng ito.

I will have this chain locked in me every day, and for as long as I am breathing. A chain that didn’t only tempt me, but it also gave clarity to the images of my future with her.