SYNOPSIS

SYNOPSIS

When a philandering butler realizes his romantic feelings towards the spoiled and pompous ass Marquess Jacques Sotello, will he have the guts to admit his change of heart or will he forever keep it hidden? 

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Good-looking and highly efficient as a butler, Cloud Sebastian Beaumont thought that he had life figured out already, he thought nothing could surprise him anymore.

Oh, how wrong he was.

The world as he knew it was turned upside down by an irritating, pompous, spoiled ass and foul-mouthed nobleman who knew nothing but shop. Marquess Jacques Sotello was the kind of person he disliked the most, but how the heck did his hate turn into something else — something that made him say ’ je t’aime’ ?

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 1

TAKING CARE of other people was the hardest of jobs, but for Cloud Sebastian Beaumont, it was just a piece of cake. He had been a butler of Count Knight since he was 14, he had long perfected the art of serving people as part of his job.

Though taking care of others was a piece of cake for him, but being with Count Knight 24/7 was more than he could handle.

His boss was like a ball of craziness. He can’t predict what he’ll do next. He can’t tell if he’s just playing crazy or he’s really crazy in the head. Though, his craziness aside, Count Knight was really a good person. He’s misunderstood most of the time because he doesn’t like taking credits over something he’d done, especially the good ones, but he’s the most caring man he has ever met.

Maybe that’s the reason why he stuck around as his butler. He wanted to take care and support this crazy man who likes doing good deeds secretly.

Through the years of serving Count Knight, Cloud understood one thing, his master was a scarred lonely man. He had been through too much, had seen so much and had felt so much. He suffered with him, fought with him and survived with him … that’s why seeing his master happy was Cloud’s first priority.

Years had passed since he made a vow to protect his master’s happiness, and it finally came — her name was Sweet Monday Canja Lopez — the nicest woman Cloud has ever met.

Seeing his master happy with Lady SM made him promise to also take good care of the lady. But what he didn’t see was that Lady SM has one heavy baggage on her, her very own butler, Jacques Sotelo, a pompous spoiled ass rotten Marquess, who doesn’t act like a butler at all.

So now, he has to take care of three people. His crazy master, his master’s lady, and … the annoying bossy Marquess, Lord Jacques.

Taking care of three people at once, Cloud can handle, but taking care of the pompous bossy Marquess, he has never felt so drained In his life.

Just like today … his patience was wearing thin. Count Knight and Lady SM were outside, on a date, maybe? Or in the café. Who knows? And he was left with the Marquess in the house.

Cloud has to play nice. He’s a Marquess after all. Kailangang pakisamahan niya ito ng maayos. The Marquess can affect Lady SM because she’s too nice and if Lady SM was affected, then his Lord will be affected as well.

But he never thought that playing nice could be this hard.

“I don’t know how…” this was Lord Jacques’ favorite words, and It’s so annoying to hear, especially when he said it with bossiness.

Though Cloud knew that being annoyed with this spoiled rotten Marquess won’t do him any good.

So Cloud took a deep breath, he calmed himself by exhaling softly, then he asked, “you don’t know how to unwrap a shrimp?”

Lord Jacques shook his head. “They’re already unwrapped when served to me.” He looked at the shrimp like it holds the secret of the universe. “How do you do it?” Slowly, the Marquess picked up one shrimp then held it close to his face, studying it, “wow… so many legs.” The Marquess, then, looked up at Cloud, “how do you eat this thing?”

Cloud could explain to this spoiled Marquess step by step but decided not to, because this pompous Marquess will never understand any of it and it’ll only drain him.

So he just silently unwrapped all the shrimp for him and put one unwrapped shrimp on the Marquess’ plate.

“Eat it.”

Like an obedient child, the Marquess ate the shrimp.

“Good?” Tanong niya habang nagbabalat pa rin ng hipon.

Ngumuya-nguya ito saka tumango. “Yeah, it’s good.”

Unconsciously, he put another shrimp on the Marquess’ plate. “You’re really a spoiled rotten, huh?”

“Yes.” Pag-amin nito na parang wala lang habang kinakain ang pagkaing nilalagay niya sa plato nito.

“Then why did you want to become Lady SM’s butler?” Cloud tsked. “You don’t even know anything.”

“She was my first friend and I like her.”

Napailing si Cloud. What a simple reason. “You think being a butler is some kind of a play?” Is this guy even thinking? He’s really annoying. “And about Lady SM, you like her … like romantically?”

“Yes.”

That put him on a sour mood because Cloud knew it’ll affect his Lord if he ever finds out. Count was very possessive of Lady SM. Tinigil niya ang pagbabalat at pagpapakin dito ng hipon. “Eat up and wash the dishes after you’re done.”

“I don’t know how.” Lord Jacques said with that bossy attitude again.

Cloud froze on his step, trying really hard not to snapped at the Marquess. “Figure it out yourself, my Lord.”

Mauubusan siya ng dugo kung patuloy siyang makikipag-usap sa Marquess. He’s just too clueless! He doesn’t know anything! He has to distance himself from the Marquess before he gets into his nerves!

Lumabas siya ng kusina at naglinis ng bahay para magpalipas ng oras. He already finished cleaning up the second floor and was now moving to the first floor when he heard a loud shattering sound coming from the kitchen.

What is that Marquess doing again?!

Cloud doesn’t want to be annoyed again so he stayed in the living room, cleaning, until he heard Lord Jacques’ voice behind him.

“Cloud, I broke three plates, two glasses and then one mug.” Lord Jacques said it like the plates owed him for breaking them. “How much are those? Let’s go buy a replacement.” He asked like he’s shopping and didn’t break anything!

“Leave them be.” Aniya na hindi ito nililingon dahil baka hindi talaga niya mapigilan ang pagsabog ng iritasyon niya.

“How much are they—”

“How about you start with ‘I’m sorry’?” Itinigil niya ang pagba-vacuum saka hinarap ito. “I’m sure you’re not used to it, but this is not your house, so say it.”

“I rather pay for it.” It seems that he hates the idea of saying sorry. “Why say sorry if I can pay it back?”

Cloud pressed his lips together. This guy was really trying his patience. Be nice, Cloud, be nice. “Those are just cheap plates, just say you’re sorry then we’ll call it quits.”

“I’ll pay for it.” May diin nitong sabi.

Hinilot niya ang sintido. “Whatever. Go buy them yourself.” He said dismissively before returning to hold the vacuum. “You can buy those outside. Take a cab and stop at the nearest home depot.”

Hindi umimik ang Marquess at bumalik lang sa kusina, siya naman ay itinuon ang atesiyon sa paglilinis.

After he was done cleaning the second and first floor, he moved to the kitchen to prepare for their meal later. Automatically, he looked around to look for Lord Jacques. Nang hindi makita doon ang Marquess, kinutuban siya ng masama pero hindi niya pinansin. Lumabas siya ng kusina para hanapin ito pero halos naikot na niya ang buong bahay, wala siyang makitang kahit anino ng Marquess.

Cloud tsked as he stands at the bottom of the staircase.

“Fuck…” napagbuga siya ng marahas na hininga, “where did that pompous ass go?”

Ibinilin pa naman ito sa kaniya ni Lady SM. Why does he have to be responsible for that grown ass man, anyway?! He’s too old to need a babysitter!

Hinihilot ang sentido na tinungo niya ang security room para panoorin ang CCTV sa loob ng bahay.

After seeing the footage, Cloud called Shun. Pero bago niya matawagan si Shun, nakita niyang ilang beses na tumawag sa kaniya ang Marquess. Siguro tumawag ito habang naglilinis siya. Ngayon pa lang niya nahawakan ulit ang cellphone mula pa kanina.

Cloud was about to call Lord Jacques back when he realized that the Marquess might not know where he was. Knowing that pompous ass, it’s better to call Shun for help.

So he called Shun.

“911.” Aniya ng sagutin nito ang tawag niya.

“What happened?” Mabilis nitong tanong.

“Lady SM’s Butler went out.” Pagkuwento niya habang nagtatagis ang bagang. “He’s clueless and a sheltered motherfucker. Can you track him down for me?”

“I’ll track his phone. Give me a sec.”

Habang naghihintay sa update mula kay Shun, tinungo niya ang garahe saka minaneho ang sasakyan niya palabas ng gate at lumabas siya ng BV.

“That motherfucker … “ Cloud muttered, “going out when he doesn’t know shit…”

Binagalan niya ang pagmamaneho ng makatanggap ng mensahe galing kay Shun.

From: Hellion

‘His coordinates.’

Below was Lord Jacques’ location.

Cloud sighed heavily before following the coordinates sent by Shun. Dinala siya ng coordinates na ’yon sa medyo hindi mataong lugar. Mga isang oras ang layo sa BV.

Cloud frowned. “What the fuck did that Marquess do this time?”

Hindi na kailangan pang maghintay ni Cloud sa sagot dahil kaagad niyang nakita si Lord Jacques. Nakaupo ito sa gilid ng kalsada at nakayuko.

He looks like an abandoned puppy on the side of the road.

Itinigil niya ang sasakyan malapit dito saka lumabas siya ng kotse at naglakad palapit dito. Nang tumigil siya sa harapan nito, pigil niya ang mapabuntong-hininga sa iritasyon.

“What are you doing here, Lord Jacques?”

Dahan-dahan itong nag-angat ng tingin sa kaniya, ilang segundong nakakunot ang nuo kapagkuwan ay gumugit ang ngiti sa mga labi nito na para bang masaya itong nakita siya. “You actually came looking for me.”

Cloud was taken aback by the Marquess’ smile that it made his Irritation disappear — he was that stunned for a couple of seconds. Who would have thought that this pompous bossy Marquess can smile genuinely like that just because Cloud went looking for him?

What a spoiled brat.

Tumikhim siya. “What are you doing here?” Ulit niyang tanong.

Tumayo ito saka pinagpag ang likod ng pantalon. “I took a cab like you said and I told him where I want to go so I could buy those fucking plates and glasses and mug. But the driver messed with me and just drove around. When I realized what he was fucking doing, he just randomly dropped me off here and left me angrily when I tried paying with my card because I don’t have a cash with me.”

Hindi makapaniwalang napatitig siya sa kaharap. This man was really sheltered. He doesn’t even know that most taxis doesn’t accept cards.

Cloud was baffled.

“Then he took my favorite watch. My Dad gave that to me.” Dagdag ng Marquess na ikinatanga niya rito. “I didn’t resist because I have no other means to pay, so I just let him. And I’d been calling you, you didn’t answer.”

Now he’s flabbergasted. The Marquess doesn’t even mind that he was robbed. Cloud’s pretty sure that his watch can buy even twenty taxis.

Hindi siya makapaniwalang napailing. “Come on. Let’s go.”

Nauna na siyang bumalik sa kotse at sumunod naman sa kaniya ang Marquess. Nang makasakay ito sa passenger seat, hindi kaagad siya umalis dahil hinihintay niya itong mag seatbelt pero hindi ito gumalaw.

Cloud tsked in annoyance. “Put your seatbelt on, Lord Jacques.” Pigil niyang hindi magtagis ang bagang sa iritasyon.

“What?” He looks clueless.

Mariin niyang ipinikit ang mga mata para kontrolin ang iritasyon niya bago kalmadong bumaling sa Marquess. “Seatbelt. Put it on.”

Sa wakas, gumalaw din ito. But his irritation just fired up when he saw him clumsily trying to put the seatbelt on.

In short … he doesn’t know how.

After fumbling with the seatbelt and not knowing what to do with it, Lord Jacques finally turned to him. “Help me put It on.”

Cloud knew that shock was written all over his face as he stared at the Marquess, dumbfounded.

Hindi siya makapaniwalang nakatingin sa Marquess na sinusubukan pa ring magsuot ng seatbelt. He’s now trying to enter his body in between the two straps.

Bago pa siya sumabog sa inis, inalis niya ang sariling seatbelt para malayang makagalaw palapit sa Marquess.

Cloud, then, leaned in, their faces were so close as he helped Lord Jacques put his seatbelt on.

Cloud stilled for a couple of seconds when he smelled the Marquess’ scent. They’re that close that he can even smell the sandalwood scent coming from him.

Cloud cleared his throat. “Remember how to do this.” Wika niya habang inaayos ang seatbelt nito. “I’m not doing this for you again. I’m not your butler. If you wanna stay with Lady SM, you have to know this much.”

“My limousine doesn’t have a seatbelt at the back and someone always puts it on for me whenever I’m riding shotgun, which is very rare, and when I’m driving alone, I don’t wear a seatbelt, so … I don’t know how.”

Cloud went to a still again when he felt Lord Jacques’ breath fanning his face as he speaks. So even his breath smells good. Gustong mailing ni Cloud dahil sa kung ano-anong pumapasok sa isip niya.

Hindi nalang siya umimik at tinapos ang pagsusuot ng seatbelt dito bago umayos ng upo sa driver’s seat at ibinalik ang seatbelt na suot saka pinausad ang sasakyan.

“I thought you trained to be a butler, but you don’t even know how to put a seatbelt on?”

“About that.” The Marquess trailed and confessed. “I lied.”

“Figures.”

“But I know a little.” Kaagad na bawi ng Marquess. “I mean … I can clean, I think. I did clean Lady SM’s café.”

“Yey. Good for you.” Aniya sa puno ng sarkasmong boses saka napailing. “How are you planning on helping Lady SM when you don’t even know how to put a seatbelt on?”

“You’ll help me.”

Hindi mapigilan ni Cloud ang matawa. The way the Marquess said it, there’s no room for resistance. It’s like he doesn’t even have the right to say no.

Cloud scoffed. “You’ve got guts.”

“I’m a fucking Marquess.” He said, dripping with confidence. “Of course I’ve got guts. Teach me everything you know. I’ll pay you.”

Cloud chuckled. “Ah, you think I’m cheap?”

“I’ll pay you millions.” Pang-iinganyo nito sa kaniya. “I know you need money. Your Lord Is broke, right? You’re accounts are frozen too.”

“I don’t need your money.” Aniya habang kalmadong nagmamaneho. “But sure, I’ll help you.” It’s better than being annoyed all the time because the pompous Marquess doesn’t know anything. He needs help around the house anyways.

“What do you want in return?” He’s a persistent motherfucker alright. “Nothing is free in this world — I know that much.”

For some reason, Cloud was amused and wanted to play with the Marquess a little. “Fine. Since you’re persistent, I’ll take your offer. Mula ngayon, Ikaw na ang bibili ng pagkain sa bahay. Lahat ng bayarin, babayaran mo. Everything I need and want, you’ll buy it. Since you’re buying my services with money, I’ll take advantage of it. And from now on, you’re not a Marquess to me, but a Butler in provision. Not only that, I will drop the honorific and just call you Jacques, except if we’re in public.”

“And here I thought you’re a good man.” Lord Jacques commented with sarcasm.

Cloud smirked. “Oh, Lord Jacques, I’m far from being a good man. I’m wicked and I’ll take advantage of you as much as I can. So be prepared, if you want my services, I’ll tell you this, I’m not cheap. And don’t expect me to be nice to you either. I’m gonna scold you whenever I want. Your title means nothing to me.”

Well. That’s a lie. After saying those things, Cloud thought, Oh, shit. This is gonna backfire on me someday. I’m sure of it.

“Sure. Whatever.” Anang Marquess na parang wala lang pakialam kung paano niya ito pakitunguhan. “I just wanna stay by milady’s side.”

Cloud glance at Lord Jacques. So this pompous ass really likes Lady SM romantically. Kapag nalaman Ito ng boss niya, siguradong magwawala ’yon. Lord Knight was a crazy motherfucker, Cloud was sure that his Lordship will make it a big deal.

“You can’t like Lady SM.” Wika niya habang nakatuon ang tingin sa daan.

“Why not?” Lord Jacques demanded.

“Because she’s with my Lord already.”

“They’ll break up someday.”

Napailing siya. “That’s not gonna happen. I know my boss, he’s not gonna let her go, so I suggest you move on.”

Ilang segundong natahimik ang Marquess bago nagsalita. “Have you ever like someone?”

“Nope.” Mas mabilis pa sa alas-kuwatro ang sagot niya.

“Then you don’t have the right to tell me to move on.”

“Fine.” Even though his tone was condescending, for some reason, he felt the need to say more. “Unlike you, Mr. Romantic, I don’t do relationships. I’m busy. It takes a lot of time and effort. Dating is tiring. I’m more of a ’I’ll fuck you ‘till you drop and I’m gone’ kind of guy.”

“You’re a fucking asshole, you mean.”

Cloud chuckled. “Yep. I’m a fucking asshole and a self-proclaim whore.”

“Such colorful words…” Lord Jacques muttered in sarcasm.

“You cussed at my lord all the time.” Cloud said.

“Yeah, because he’s a motherfucker, while you …” the Marquess tsked, “I thought you were nice.”

“Sorry to disappoint, but I’m not.” Mas binilisan pa niya ang pagmamaneho.

“Don’t pretend to be nice again. I hate those kinds of people.”

Cloud glanced at the Marquess, “ah, so you like the honest kind — I’m not that though. I’m not nice, I’m dishonest, I’m a user and I’m as wicked as my master.”

“In short, you’re a bad person.”

“Yep.” Cloud grinned at the Marquess. “And this bad person is gonna teach you Butler 101.”

“Whatever.” The Lord Jacques was silent afterwards.

“Come on now, don’t be silent with me.” He teasingly cooed the Marquess. “It’s a one hour drive back home. Since It seems that we’ll be staying in the same house for a while and I’m teaching you how to be a butler, let’s get to know each other. What do you say?”

“Fuck off.”

Hindi niya pinakinggan ang Marquess. For some reason, he’s enjoying himself, seeing the Marquess slightly pissed face amuses him. Maybe because Cloud’s used to being pissed because of the Marquess, now, the tables have turned.

Ano pa kaya kapag galit na galit na ito? That’ll be a very amusing sight for sure.

“Though I already know you.” Pagpapatuloy niya sa pagsasalita, “so, how about you get to know me?” He said while playfully wiggling his eyebrows at the Marquess.

“Eyes on the road, you motherfucker.” Lord Jacques hissed.

Cloud tsked. “Now, now, that’s not the proper way to treat the person who’s gonna help you.”

“I’m paying you.” May diin nitong sabi.

“So? I’m still doing you a favour.” Kalmado pa rin si Cloud. “Sa tingin mo madaling turuan ang kagaya mo na walang alam?”

“I’m a fast learner.”

“We’ll see about that.” He smirked and continued driving.

The Marquess was silent the whole ride, so was he. Nang makapasok sila sa BV, at makabalik sa bahay, naroon na si Lady SM at ang baliw niyang amo.

He saw how the Marquess’ face lit up when he saw SM in the living room. Palihim siyang napailing.

He likes her that much?

Dumeretso siya sa kusina para maghanda ng makakain ng pumasok doon ang Marquess.

“What are you doing here?” Kinunotan niya ito ng nuo. “Shouldn’t you be in the living room, with Lady SM?”

Naglakad ito palapit sa kaniya. “You agreed to teach me how to become a Butler like you. Let’s start now, so I can properly support milady.”

Napabuntong-hininga siya. Bakit ba niya naisip na magandang ideya na turuan ito? Looking at the Marquess’ determined face now, he wants to takes it back.

This … is not amusing at all.

“Well?” Anito na pumukaw sa pag-iisip niya. “What do I need to learn first?”

“Depends.” Naghugas si Cloud ng kamay sa lababo. “What do you want to eat for dinner?”

Natigilan ang Marquess. “Why are you asking me?”

“Just tell me so I can cook It for you.” Aniya.

“But—”

“I already know what my Lord and Lady SM wants to eat.” Wika niya saka humarap sa Marquess na nagtatakang nakatingin sa kaniya. “Now tell me what you wanna eat.”

The Marquess blink at him. “I thought you’re not nice.”

“What’s so nice about asking you what you wanna eat?”

“Nobody has ever asked me before.” Anang Marquess sa medyo pabulong na boses, “my meals are already planned for the whole month.”

Cloud’s face grimaced. “The hell?”

“Yep.” Mahina itong natawa. “It’s for my health, according to my family’s nutritionist.”

“Uh-huh…” Cloud hummed, still shocked at the planned meal for a whole month. “So …” he forced himself to ask, “what do you wanna eat?”

“Vegetable salad.”

Napangiwi siya. “Someone finally asked you what you want to eat and you want to eat some salad?”

“Well, I wanna try it. Some say it’s good, I wanna taste for myself.” Paliwanag ng Marquess pero may kakaibang emosyon sa mukha nito na hindi niya mabasa. “If you don’t know how to make it then—”

“For your fucking information, Lord Jacques, I’m a fucking chef, that means I can cook anything, even you, if you piss me off.”

The Marquess chuckled. “What happened to the ‘I’ll call you Jacques from now on when we’re not In public’?” Paalala nito sa kaniya sa sinabi niya habang nasa sasakyan sila.

He grinned at the Marquess sarcastically. “Don’t be so cheeky, you motherfu—” tumigil siya saka bumuntong-hininga at napailing na nagsalita, “it’s not even worth cursing at you.”

Lord Jacques laughed and for a couple of seconds, Cloud was just staring at him, unaware of what he was doing until the Marquess spoke. “So … how can I help you? What do Butlers do in this situation?”

Tumikhim si Cloud saka tinuro niya ang Ref. “Get one cucumber, two tomatoes, five radishes, one jicama and six lettuce leaves. Then get some bell pepper on the side, green onion and garlic.”

Kaagad namang tumalima ang Marquess habang siya naman ay naghahanda para sa pagkain ng baliw niyang amo at ni Lady SM.

Cloud was planning to make the vegetable salad first, but because the Marquess was taking a long time, he’s now getting ready to cook Pork Chops with Raspberry Sauce.

Bumuntong-hininga si Cloud at Iniwan ang ginagawa para tingnan kung ano na ang nangyayari sa Marquess.

And he found the Marquess peeking inside the ref while there’s a phone In his one hand. At may kung anong mayroon sa cellphone nito na titingin muna ito doon bago tumingin sa loob ng ref.

“What are you doing?” Naguguluhan niyang tanong.

Kaagad na tuwid na tumayo ang Marquess habang nanatiling nakabukas ang ref. “Finding the ingredients you mentioned.”

Cloud frowned. “And how long do you think it takes to find those ingredients?”

The Marquess glanced at the ref. “I don’t know what the other ingredients looks like, only tomatoes, so,” iniharap nito sa kaniya ang hawak na cellphone, “i was asking Mr. Google what they look like.”

Hindi alam ni Cloud at matatawa ba siya o maiirita sa Marquess. Those ingredients are not even hard to recognized. Just perfect. Note the sarcasm.

But in the end, Cloud chose to be calm. There’s no point getting angry at the man who really doesn’t know anything because he was raised with a golden spoon in his mouth. “Ano pa ba ang hindi mo mahanap?” Tanong niya.

“Cucumber—”

“—Oh—”

“—what does it look like?”

“It’s green and it looks like a big fat dick.” Paliwanag niya sa Marquess kung anong hitsura ng hinahanap nito. “You can’t miss it.”

And to his shock, the Marquess takes out a big and long green fruit.

“Is this It?” Lord Jacques was holding a Bitter Gourd also known as Ampalaya.

He looked at the Marquess blankly, annoyed. “I said big fat dick, not long small wrinkled dick.”

“Oh.” Ibinalik nito ampalaya sa loob ng ref saka may kinuha ulit Ito doon at kaagad na ipinakita sa kaniya. It’s a cucumber this time. “I’m sure this is it.”

Napailing siya habang nakatingin sa Marquess, “I don’t think I’ll get out of teaching you Butler 101 unscathed. You, my Lord, is driving me crazy.”

Nginitian lang siya ng gago.

Nilapitan ni Cloud ang Marquess, sa pagkakataong ’to, hindi na siya nagulat sa mabango nitong amoy ng makalapit siya. The scent of sandalwood really smells good on him that Cloud has to stop himself from sniffing. Tumikhim siya saka kinuha ang cellphone nito at naghanap siya ng article gamit ang google.

Nang makita niya ang hinahanap, paharap niyang ibinalik ang cellphone ni sa Marquess. “See this article? It’s a list of all the fruits, vegetables and spices with pictures. Memorize them.” Pagkasabi nun ay siya na ang nagdala ng ingredients para sa Vegetable Salad sa island counter at nag-umpisa nang magluto ng hapunan.

Habang nagluluto, pasulyap-sulyap siya sa Marquess at paminsan-minsan ay napapailing.

Cloud was ransacking his mind, trying to remember If he ever found a man’s scent and breath that made him stilled and appreciate it. Pero kahit anong kalkal niya sa isip niya, wala siyang mahanap. Never in his life did he ever find a man that made him want to sniff his scent — though if it’s women, he has a long list of them.

I’m having a bad feeling about this . This will not turn out good. Cloud can already feel it, and normally, he would listen to his gut, but for some reason, he discarded it.

It’s just teaching the Marquess how to be a Butler… What could go wrong?

AN ORIGINAL SONG FOR JE T’AIME

©️ Je T’aime by Celine Guevarra FB: https://www.facebook.com/sweetlyvxx Youtube: https://youtu.be/tQxOkS-Fru8

As a writer and author of Je T’aime , i’m amazed and i feel so blessed.

Celine made a song for Je T’aime, a reader of mine since 2016. While listening, i was just gaping because the lyrics fits perfectly for Je T’aime. I feel so lucky and blessed to have such amazing and talented readers. Because of this, i’m hundred times more inspired and my motivation skyrocketed. I feel so grateful that i became a writer, because through my stories, i met a lot of amazing readers/people.

And i wanna share this song to you with her permission, of course.

Thank you, Celine. Thank you for inspiring me.

[Dapat mayroong isang GIF o video dito. I-update na ang app ngayon upang makita ito.]

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 2

HINDI ALAM NI Cloud kung matatawa o maaawa siya kay Lord Jacques habang pinipilit nitong ubusin ang vegetable salad na gusto nitong matikman. The way Lord Jaques’ eyebrow furrowed and his face contorted in confusion with a little hint of disgust were enough for Cloud to conclude that he’s not enjoying the food.

“You okay, Jacq?” Tanong ni Lady SM sa malumanay na boses.

While his master, Knight, scoffed. “Why are you even eating a vegetable salad, you motherfucking Marquess? Look at your face. It’s like someone’s torturing you.”

“Fuck you, you motherfucking Count.” Itigadong sagot ng Marquess kay Knight. “Don’t fucking talk to me.”

Now Lady SM was worried. “Palitan nalang natin ang pagkain mo, gusto mo?”

Umiling ang Marques saka ngumiti kay Lady SM. Gone the hostile Marquess. “It’s good, milady. Don’t worry.”

That’s clearly a lie to appease Lady SM and Cloud knew that Lady SM was not buying it, but still, she let the topic go.

Napailing nalang si Cloud saka napatitig ulit sa Marquess. Lord Jacques was really having a hard time swallowing the vegetable without making a face. Sigurado siyang kung mag-isa lang ito, kanina pa nito isinuka ang kinain. He’s just holding himself up for dignity.

And it’s getting into Cloud’s nerves!

He can’t watch the Marquess trying to finish his vegetable salad. It’s maddening seeing him turning green but not doing anything about it!

Where’s the bossy Marquess who would surely push away the food if it didn’t satisfy his tastebud? Where’s that pompous ass? Where’s that spoiled brat Marquess he knew that would cuss non-stop if it’s not to his liking?

Is he trying to look good for Lady SM? Is that it?

Cloud was pissed even more.

Hanggang sa matapos nalang silang maghapunan, hindi talaga tinulak ng Marquess ang pinggan nito. He endured the vegetable salad, even though Cloud was sure that it tasted horrible for the Marquess.

And when his master and Lady SM excused themselves after dinner, the Marquess followed and left the dining table.

Napailing nalang si Cloud ng mag-isa nalang siya sa kusina. Ilang segundo ang pinalipas niya bago tumayo sa kinauupuan at nag-umpisang magligpit ng pinagkainan.

Habang naghuhugas ng pinggan, hindi mawala sa isip niya ang hitsura kanina ng Marquess habang kumakain. Lord Jacques looked really uncomfortable while eating and Cloud was sure as hell that the vegetable salad didn’t appeased the Marquess’ hunger.

Tiyak na gutom ito ngayon.

Napabuntong-hininga nalang siya saka napailing dahil sa hindi malamang kadahilanan nag-aalala siya sa kalagayan nito. And it’s rare for him because he only worries about one person, and that’s his crazy boss.

Tinapos ni Cloud ang paghuhugas, kapagkuwan ay natagpuan niya ang sarili na nagluluto.

Maybe because he’s supposed to guide him, as his boss’ request.

Cloud air fried a chicken breast that was dipped into a mixture of egg and flour, then pressed it into a panko bread crumbs, parmesan, lemon zest, salt and pepper to coat. Then he drizzle some oregano on top of it after it’s done.

He placed the food he made on a tray, together with a glass of water and a glass of fresh mango juice then he pulled his phone from his pocket to call the Marquess.

“Where are you?” Kaagad niyang tanong ng sagutin nito ang tawag. Ayaw niyang halughugin ang bahay para lang hanapin ito.

“Why the fuck are you asking?” The Marquess was hostile again.

He sighed. “Just tell me. I’m not in the mood to be nice to you.”

Ilang segundo ang lumipas bago ito sumagot. “My room…”

Pinatay niya ang tawag saka binuhat ang tray gamit lang ang isang kamay. He’d been a butler for so many years that he already perfected carrying and balancing a tray full of food with only one hand.

Lumabas ng kusina si Cloud at umakyat sa ikalawang palapag ng bahay at tinungo ang kuwarto ng Marquess.

He didn’t even know why he’s worried or why he’s doing this. Before he knew it earlier, he was already cooking for the Marquess.

Cloud shook his head and stopped in front of Lord Jacques’ room. Kumatok muna siya bago binuksan ang pinto at pumasok.

Kapagkuwan ay natigilan siya sa paghakbang ng mapasukan ang Marquess na nasa kalagitnaan ng pagsusuot ng pang-itaas na damit.

He had a great body. That’s the first thing that enters Cloud’s mind seeing the Marquess half naked. He has muscles in the right places, but not the bulky kind of muscles. Just enough to fill his arms, chest and abdomen.

Cloud immediately shook his head when the thought finally sunk in.

Since when did another man’s body look great in his eyes?

Now, I’m being weird. Kulang ba siya sa tulog? Must be.

Tumikhim si Cloud bago naglakad patungo sa mahabang bench na nasa paanan ng kama.

Cloud carefully placed the tray on the bench made of wood before standing straight, then he stilled when he looked at Lord Jacques and their eyes met.

Nagsalubong ang kilay niya ng mapansing parang may kakaiba sa hitsura nito. For some reason, he looked pale. At mukhang napansin nito ang pagtataka sa mukha niya dahil nagpaliwanag ito kaagad.

“I vomited a little.” The Marquess tsked irritatedly. “Fucking vegetable.”

Because of the salad? “Bakit kasi pinilit mong kainin ’yon kung hindi mo naman gusto? You should have push the plate away.”

“You made it. I don’t want to make you feel bad.”

So that’s why he forced himself to finish it? Napailing siya saka iminuwestra ang kamay sa tray. “I know you didn’t enjoy the vegetable salad so I cooked you something. Eat up.”

Bumaba ang tingin ng Marquess sa tray na nasa bench. “Looks good…”

“Tastes good as well.” Cloud’s not bragging, but he really was a good cook.

“So fucking cocky… “ naiiling na komento ni Lord Jacques pero kapagkuwan ay umupo ito sa bench at nagumpisang kumain.

Nakamasid lang naman dito si Cloud. Good thing the Marquess looked like he’s enjoying the food he prepared for him.

Tumikhim siya, “anyways, is there any food allergies I need to know about?” Tanong niya para basagin ang katahimikan sa kuwarto. “I’m the cook, so I need to know what you can and can’t eat.”

Umiling ang Marquess. “No allergies.” Then he sighed, “but no fucking grass anymore.”

Nagsalubong ang kilay niya. “Vegetables are not grass.”

“They are to me.” Lord Jacques tsked. “I am not eating that again! But some say it’s delicious though,” nag-angat ito ng tingin sa kaniya, “maybe you made it wrong?”

Cloud looked at the Marquess flatly. “Maybe I shouldn’t have cooked you another meal.”

“I’m kidding.” Mahina itong natawa. “By the way, do you have another set of biddings? This one is giving me rashes.” Anito na ang tinutukoy ay ang kasalukuyang bedsheet ng higaan nito.

Tumaas ang dalawa niyang kilay sa narinig, “rashes?”

“Yeah, the fabric is giving rashes. I don’t like it.” Yep. He’s back to being bossy again. “Change it for me. I don’t know how.”

Pasimpleng hinilot ni Cloud ang sentido.

“I want a Gucci bedsheet.” Dagdag pa nito na ikinasakit ng ulo niya. “And Gucci pillowcase as well.”

This is what he gets for worrying that this ass Marquess might get hungry at night. Now, he’s bossing him around. This motherfucker!

Cloud took a very deep breath to calm down. “First of all, Lord Jacques, I’m not your butler for you to boss me around. Second, we don’t have a Gucci bedsheet and pillow case. So just suck it up. You’ll get used to it.”

“No, I won’t.” Lord Jacques mumbled and didn’t say anything more than that.

Akala niya magmumura ito o mumurahin siya tulad ng palaging ginagawa nito kapag kaharap ang amo niya o kapag may gusto itong hindi nakukuha, pero nanatili itong tahimik.

Napailing siya saka pinalipas niya ang oras sa paglilinis ng kuwarto ng Marquess, kasama na ang banyo habang kumakain ito.

And after Lord Jacques finished eating, Cloud carefully picked the tray up and glanced at the Marquess.

“I already ready your toothbrush in the bathroom.” Imporma niya rito, “and if you want to bathe, I already ready the bath and the towel for you, but give it a little time since you just finished eating.” Then he slightly bowed down his head to show respect, he was used to doing it that it has now become a part of him. “Goodnight, Lord Jacques.” He said before leaving.

Hindi pa siya nakakalabas ng kuwarto nito, akmang bubuksan palang niya ang pinto ng marinig niyang nagsalita ang Marques.

“ Gracias .“

A small smile made it’s way to Cloud’s lips. So the pompous ass knows how to say thank you.

“ De nada .“ Cloud replied before leaving the room.

Bumalik siya sa kusina para hugasan ang pinagkainan ng Marquess, pagkatapos ay umikot muna siya sa buong bahay para siguraduhing naka-lock lahat ng pintuan at bintana bago tinungo ang kuwarto niya.

As Cloud lay on the bed and stared at the ceiling, the Marquess entered his mind.

As per his observation, the Marquess was a pompous brat. Bossing around people looks so natural for him, maybe because of his standing in life. But even though he’s a pompous ass, he does know how to say thank you and appreciate someone’s effort.

He actually ate the salad, even though he doesn’t like it, because I made it for him.

Dahan-dahang gumuhit ang ngiti sa labi niya, Kapagkuwan ay napailing siya ng mahuli ang sariling nakangiti.

Because of that Marquess, he’s being weird.

Maybe it’s because it’s his first time meeting such a person with nobility status. But his master was a Count — well, Lord Knight was crazy, so he’s in a different league. He couldn’t compare the two.

Cloud blows a loud breath. Instead of ransacking his mind and confusing his own self, he better get some sleep.

Akmang ipipikit sana niya ang mga mata ng bigla nalang may pumasok sa isip niya. Naiiritang bumangon siya saka may kinuha sa walk-in closet niya bago lumabas ng kuwarto niya at tinungo ang kuwarto ng Marquess.

Cloud knocked on the door, then he gave it twenty seconds before entering the room.

Pagkapasok niya, kaagad niyang nakita ang Marquess na nakahiga sa bench sa may paanan ng kama. He’s awake alright, but didn’t even made an effort to open the door for him. What an ass.

Kinunotan niya ito ng nuo. “Bakit diyan ka nakahiga?”

“The sheet is gonna give me more rashes.” Sagot nito. “I don’t like it.”

Cloud sighed before showing Lord Jacques what he brought for him from his closet. It’s a set of beddings. “I don’t have Gucci, but … is Versace okay?”

Kaagad na bumangon ang Marquess mula sa pagkakahiga sa bench saka gumuhit ang malapad na ngiti sa labi nito. “Fuck, yeah. I like Versace.”

“Of course, you do.” Cloud mumbled sarcastically before changing the beddings of the Marquess’ bed.

“Should I help—”

“Don’t bother.” Kaagad niyang pigil sa Marquess na akmang tatayo mula sa pagkakaupo sa bench. “I’ll do it. Just sit there and shut up.”

“Who the fuck are you to tell me to shut up?” Iritadong tanong ng Marquess.

“The one changing the bedsheet so you can sleep better at night.” Puno ng sarkasmo niyang sagot.

The Marquess didn’t say anything anymore, but while Cloud was changing the bedsheet, he could feel Lord Jacques’ eyes on him.

Bumuntong-hininga siya saka tumingin dito. “What is it?”

“Nothing.” Sagot ng Marquess. “You just make it look so easy changing the beddings.”

“That’s because I’m a butler.” Sagot niya saka bumalik sa pagaayos ng higaan nito.

“I have three butlers back home,” pagkuwento ng Marquess, “but none of them put a toothpaste on my toothbrush for me like you did.”

“Yeah?” He said nonchalantly while changing the pillowcase.

“Yeah.”

“Then they are not one of hell of a butler like me.” He playfully said before spreading the comforter on the bed and smoothing its edges. “There. Done.” Aniya ng matapos saka niligpit ang beddings na pinalitan niya at dinala iyon palabas, patungo sa kuwarto niya.

He placed the beddings on the sofa inside his room before lying himself down on the bed.

This time, Cloud was able to sleep peacefully, without worry.

DONE WITH EVERYTHING in the house, Cloud was looking forward to resting. Pero dahil sa baliw niyang boss na pinapapunta siya sa café ni Lady SM, hindi siya nakapagpahinga.

From: Count Crazy

‘Come to SM’s Café. ASAP. Need alone time with my baby. You take care of the café.’

Napabuntong-hininga nalang si Cloud. So much for resting.

Cloud went to the garage and stepped inside his car— Mercedes-Maybach Exelero— a gift from his older brother for his birthday last year.

He drove it to Lady SM’s café.

Habang minamaneho niya ang sasakyan palabas ng BV, nakasalubong niya ang baliw niyang boss sakay sa motorsiklo nito at nasa likod nito si Lady SM.

Cloud doesn’t need to be a genius to figure out what’s those two are gonna do.

Dumeretso siya sa Bitter Sweet Café at ipinarada ang sasakyan sa parking lot saka pumasok siya sa loob. Kaagad niyang nakita si Lord Jacques na nagsi-serve ng order sa mga costumer.

Tumaas ang sulok ng labi niya habang pinagmamasdan ito. He looked awkward serving people, but he’s still doing it.

All for Lady SM.

The Marquess was really trying his hardest for the woman he likes.

Umupo sa bakanteng lamesa si Cloud saka hinintay na mapansin siya ng Marquess. Abala pa rin ito sa paghahatid ng order ng mga costumer. Habang tumatagal, napapansin niyang padilim ng padilim ang mukha nito, lalo na kapag may idinadagdag na pagkain ang costumer pagkatapos nitong ilapag ang unang inorder ng mga ito.

The Marques looks pissed making Cloud chuckle. It’s fun to watch Lord Jacques trying to calm himself down to not explode in anger in front of the costumers.

Then accidentally, their eyes met.

Using his forefingers, Cloud draws a smiling lip near his own, motioning Lord Jacques to do the same.

With Lord Jacques pissed expression, he mouthed ’ Fuck you ’ in reply.

Cloud can’t hold his laughter. The pissed face of the Marquess was really amusing to see.

The Marquess looks cute when he’s pissed.

Cloud went still. His smile disappeared. Since when did I find a man cute? He’s being weird again. Maybe Lord Knight’s attitude was rubbing off of him. His boss was weird after all.

Napailing siya saka napatingin ulit kay Lord Jacques na ngayon ay naglalakad na patungo sa mesa niya.

“What are you doing here?” The Marquess asked him. He’s pissed alright.

“My Lord asked me to be here.” Sagot niya saka sumeryoso ang mukha niya. “It’s a good thing that I’m here. How about we start our lesson?”

Kumunot ang nuo nito. “Here?”

“Yeah.”

“How?”

“Serve them with a smile.”

“I don’t want to.” Kaagad nitong sabi. “They’re not milady.”

“It’s called practice.”

“I can smile just fine at milady. I don’t need practice for that.”

Cloud sighed to release the irritation building inside him. “If you say so. Let’s just forget about this teaching you how to be a butler then. It’s no use.” Tumayo siya at akmang aalis ng mahinang nagmura ang Marquess habang nagtatagis ang bagang nito.

“Fuck it! Fine!” Lord Jacques hissed in between his greeted teeth before leaving his table and turning back to the customers and serving them with a smile.

The Marquess was still pissed alright, but he’s still smiling.

Bumalik sa pagkakaupo si Cloud at pinagmasdan ang Marquess. It’s amusing really, but it’s not all that. The Marquess really needs to learn how to be courteous with strangers if he wants to be a butler. He’s Lady SM’s butler — that means, Lady SM must be an important person somehow. Dapat ngayon palang, mahasa na itong makiharap ng maayos sa ibang tao kahit pa nga hindi nito gusto ’yon.

Courtesy is everything. And then followed by showing manners.

Ilang segundo pa niyang pinagmasdan ang Marquess bago siya tumayo at umorder ng pagkain sa counter.

Chicken Avocado Pita Sandwich and coffee.

Nang makabalik siya sa mesa, kinuha niya ang cellphone sa bulsa saka napabuntong-hininga ng makitang may mensahe galing sa ina niya.

He opened it.

From: Mamá

’ Cloud Sebastian Beaumont, when are you planning to settle down? My friend’s daughter is very beautiful. She’ll suit your taste.’

Cloud sighed before turning off his phone without replying to his Mom’s message.

Palagi nalang iyon ang tanong ng ina niya. Well, he’s not getting younger, he knew that, but he’s not ready to settle down yet. He’s nearing thirty, but that doesn’t really concern him.

His concern was … who will take care of his master if he got married? He promised his lord that he will help him and stay by his side until he no longer needs him and he wants to keep that promise. He wants to support him in any way he can. Of all people, he’s the one who knows best that his Lord doesn’t like being left behind and abandoned and he will not do it to the Count.

Nasisiguro niyang kung mag-aasawa siya, tiyak na patitigilan siya nito na pagsilbihan ang amo niya na para na ring pamilya ang turing niya.

He will never leave his lord’s side. For as long as he needs him.

Cloud was pulled out from his reverie when someone served him his order. When he looked up to see, it was Lord Jacques.

“Enjoy the fucking food.” The Marquess said with a fake smile.

Hindi niya pinansin ang pagmumura nito saka iminuwestra lang ang kamay sa kaharap na upuan. “Sit.”

“I’m fuckin’ working.”

“Just sit.” Aniya. “This won’t take long.”

Napipilitan man, umupo ito sa kaharap niyang upuan. Siya naman ay kaagad na tinulak ang pinggang may lamang Chicken Avocado Pita Sandwich palapit sa Marquess.

“Pinaalis ko sa kanila ang gulay para makain mo.” Aniya saka sumimsim ng kape.

Walang imik na kumain naman ang Marquess, at paminsan-minsan ay bumubuntong-hininga ito. The Marquess must be tired since he’s not used to this.

Inilahad ni Cloud ang kamay sa Marquess. “Give me your apron.”

Lord Jacques frowned at him while munching the sandwich. “Why?”

“Just give it.”

Nagtataka man, hinubad nito ang apron na suot saka ibinigay sa kaniya. Mas lalong nagtaka ang Marquess ng makitang isinuot niya ang apron nito.

“What the fuck are you—”

“I’ll take over.” Inubos niya ang kape saka tumayo, “just rest. You must be tired.”

Hindi na niya hinintay na makapagsalita pa ito, lumapit siya kay Monet at ipinaliwanag dito na siya muna ang papalit kay Lord Jacques at alam na ’yon ni Lady SM.

Lihim na napailing naman si Cloud ng mag-umpisa siyang magtrabaho.

So much for resting today.

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 3

JACQUES should feel tired by now, normal people should feel tired, but him? No. He couldn’t feel it, but he knew in his mind that after working in the café that long, he must rest his body or else he’ll collapse. Ever since he can remember, he’d been suffering from CIP also known as Congenital Insensitivity to Pain — in short, he can’t feel pain. At all. But unlike other patients, he has the ability to sweat — enough to regulate his body’s temperature.

And when someone couldn’t feel pain, they also couldn’t feel hunger, they don’t feel tired, they don’t feel discomfort in their body and so on, but unlike other patients, he can feel when it’s hot or cold, but not the pain and discomfort accompanied by it. CIP can result in different gene mutation, and in his case — since it’s different with every patient — it causes him to lose 80% of his sense of smell and that’s already severe.

The odor must be extreme for him to be able to smell it and since his sense of smell was lacking, it also affected his sense of taste. The food tastes different and most of the time, it’s even tasteless.

How his parents kept him alive when he was a child, he had know idea. Normally, CIP patients die young, so it’s a miracle that he’s still alive.

Physically, he’s numb. Emotionally, he has them like everybody else, but he’s unstable. He easily gets irritated and moody and just plain jerk. But he was trained at a very young age how to live with this disease. And it helps him live a normal life — well, maybe not even close to normal, but it’s bearable and it keeps him alive.

And because of his training, without actually feeling tired, he knows that he should be tired by now, after working for so many hours.

Lady SM didn’t return to the café after leaving with the motherfucking Count. So he and Cloud helped around the café. Good thing he understands Tagalog because his father forced him to learn it a year ago for the sole purpose of being Lady SM’s butler, though he couldn’t speak the language fluently.

Monet said she’ll take care of everything after Jacques acted and pretended like he’s tired, and when she said that, he immediately dragged Cloud out of the café.

It’s a good thing Cloud didn’t resist and just went along. Wala siya sa mood para makipagmurahan dito pero gusto niya ng kasama. He’s used to being alone, but sometimes he craves company.

“So fucking tired…” Jacques groaned while walking. That’s what normal people would say after working that much, though he doesn’t feel a thing at all.

Yes, he already perfected the art of acting like a normal person. His mother forced him to learn and act like a normal person for years and it has been engraved on him because she hates imperfection.

Umaakto siyang ganun dahil ayaw din niyang malaman ng ibang tao na may ganito siyang sakit. Because when people finds out that he couldn’t feel pain, they usually avoid him, looked at him weirdly and pitifully, make fun of him or take advantage of his inability to feel pain.

Naputol ang pag-iisip niya ng makitang tinuro ni Cloud ang Mercedes-Maybach Exelero na nakaparada sa labas ng café ni Lady SM. “Get in.”

“Your car?” Tanong niya sa kasama.

As far as he knows, Mercedes-Maybach was one of the most expensive car. Jacques sometimes forgets that Cloud came from a very wealthy family in Spain that hailed originally from France.

“Mmm.” Cloud just hummed to answer him before getting inside the driver’s seat.

Kaagad namang sumakay si Jacques saka sinuot ang seatbelt. He knows how to do it now, thanks to Cloud.

Habang minamaniobra ni Cloud ang sasakyan paalis sa parking lot ng café, nagsalita si Jacques. “Can we drive around a bit?” He’s uncomfortable in the Count’s house. He just wanted to breathe a little.

“Thought you’re tired.”

Jacques sighed. “Never mind.”

Akala ni Jacques ay uuwi na sila sa bahay ng konde, kaya nagulat siya ng makitang nilampasan nila ang Bachelor’s Village at nagmaneho si Cloud ng walang destinasyon.

Pasimple niyang sinulyapan ang nagmamaneho.

Cloud told him that he’s not a nice person, but somehow, he doesn’t believe that. In Count Knight’s household, Cloud was the person who took care of him, even though he’s an outsider and he appreciates that. He knew how hard it must be for Cloud to deal with him. Back home, in Spain, no one can stand him.

Maybe, he’s just really kind…

“I hate kind people.” Unconsciously, Jacques muttered under his breath.

“What?” Tanong naman ni Cloud na abala sa pagmamaneho.

“I fucking hate kind people.” Ulit niya na may iritasyong kasama.

“Don’t worry. They hate you too.” Cloud replied in thick sarcasm.

Jacques tsked. “Kindness is scary, don’t you think? When people are kind, they usually want something in return.”

“Yep.” Cloud agreed. “As the saying goes, there’s no free lunch in this world. Everyone has their own hidden agendas.”

Nakatutok sa daan ang mga mata ni Jacques ng magsalita ulit. “So what’s your fucking agenda?”

“What?” Cloud sounded taken aback.

“You’re nice to me. What’s up with that?”

Sinulyapan siya nito. “Kailan ako naging mabait sa ’yo?”

Jacques let out a sarcastic scoffed. “Really? Playing dumb? Doesn’t suit you.”

Cloud chuckled. “Maybe I’m one of those rare genuine kind people.”

Jacques scoffed. “Yeah, and pigs can fly.”

Cloud let out a short laugh then shook his head. “Don’t mind what I do, Lord Jacques. I’ve been a Butler since I was fourteen. It’s in my nature to take care of the people around me, even when they’re spoiled and pompous ass Marquess.”

Napailing siya sa huli nitong sinabi. “Spoiled and pompous, huh?” Natawa siya. “Trust me, I can be worse than that.”

Cloud just shrugged like he doesn’t care. “I’m well experienced in dealing with the likes of you. Maybe you’ve forgotten who my boss is. He may not be spoiled and pompous like you, but he’s crazy and moody, so give it your best shot, Lord Jacques.” Sinulyapan siya nito habang nakangisi, “I’m one hell of a Butler after all.”

“Challenge accepted.” Jacques matched the smirk on Cloud’s lips. “I’m pretty sure you won’t be able to stand me.”

Nagkibit-balikat lang si Cloud saka kapagkuwan ay nagtanong sa kaniya. “You okay now?”

Jacques frowned. “What?”

“Mukhang maayos ka naman na.” Wika nito na mas lalong ikinakunot ng nuo niya.

What the fuck is this asshole talking about — Jacques stilled and glanced at Cloud. Did he notice that he felt uncomfortable going home earlier? Was that why he went along with him when he told him to drive around a bit?

Cloud was too observant. Maybe because he’d been a Butler and it’s his job.

Tumingin siya sa labas ng sasakyan. “Keep driving.”

Cloud didn’t complain nor say anything. He just drove the car like Jacques asked. No questions asked and just comfortable silence.

Thirty minutes later, Cloud was still letting him do what he wanted. No complaints.

“What’s that?” Mabagal lang ang takbo ng sasakyan nila kaya nakikita niya ang mga nagbebenta ng kakaibang pagkain sa gilid ng kalsada.

“The kind of food you probably wouldn’t eat.” Sagot ng kasama niya.

Jacques scowled. “Don’t be so fucking judgemental. Go buy me one.”

Masama ang tingin na pinukol sa kaniya ni Cloud. Sinagot naman niya iyon ng pekeng ngiti.

“Go buy me one.” Ulit niyang utos rito.

Jacques knew Cloud was irritated. After all, he hates being bossed around by him because he’s not his master. But to his surprise, after glaring at him for a couple of seconds, Cloud sighed then he pulled over near the food cart.

“Anong gusto mo?” Tanong nito sa kaniya.

“The one on the stick.” Sagot niya saka nilabas ang pitaka sa bulsa. “The one that looks like little worms? I wanna try it.”

Cloud looked at him flatly. “It’s called isaw .”

Nagkibit-balikat lang siya saka kinuha ang card sa pitaka at inabot yon kay Cloud.

“Huh?” Now Cloud looks confused while looking at him and then to his card.

“Payment for the isaw.” Sagot niya.

Suddenly, Cloud started laughing really hard. And Jacques was looking at the man, confused.

“Why the fuck are you laughing, asshole?” He asked, irritated. Cloud’s laughter sounded like an insult to him.

“N-nothing…” Cloud was still laughing and was trying to sober up but failing. “Fuck!”

Jacques glared at the Butler. “Continue laughing, you motherfucker, and I’ll kick you out of this car even if this is yours. I swear, Cloud! Don’t test me!”

Slowly, Cloud sobered up, but he would still chuckle from time to time.

Masama ang tingin niya rito.

“That was epic,” natatawang sabi nito saka tinulak pabalik sa kaniya ang kamay niyang may hawak na card. “Hindi sila tumatanggap ng card.” Natawa na naman ito. “I can’t believe you gave me a black card to buy an isaw.”

Nagtagis ang bagang ni Jacques habang matalim ang tingin kay Cloud na patawa-tawa pa rin habang papalabas ng sasakyan para bilhan siya ng isaw.

Still irritated, he put his black card back in his wallet and grumpily waited for Cloud to come back.

Habang bumibili si Cloud, nakamasid siya rito.

It’s not like he wanted to taste it, it’s because he wanted to test something. It’s because of the vegetable salad last night. Normally, he couldn’t appreciate food because if it’s not tasteless, it lacks flavor that it’s almost tasteless. But there’s something about the salad that made him taste something he couldn’t explain. That was why he was grimacing, because he couldn’t explain it. Kaya nang makapasok siya sa kuwarto niya kagabi, pilit niyang isinuka ang kinain niya. Thinking that there must be something wrong with the food.

And then Cloud brought him another meal. He knew, just by looking at Cloud, that he made the food for him because he was worried he might be hungry.

At sa hindi niya malamang kadahilanan, may nalasahan siya sa niluto nito. It lacks flavour, close enough to be called tasteless, but there’s something in the food that he couldn’t quite explain, and he liked it. He liked what he tasted when he ate it.

Or was it really a flavor? Did he really taste something? Or his mind was just playing with him?

With those questions in his mind, Cloud gave him a sandwich earlier. Pinaalis nito ang gulay dahil akala nito hindi siya kumakain nun dahil sa nangyari kagabi. And when he bit into it, there’s that similar taste again. Same flavour. Same feeling.

And he doesn’t even know why he’s tasting something. He has to get himself checked first to know what’s happening to him.

But for the meantime, he concluded that it has something to do with Cloud giving him food. Kaya ngayon, gusto niyang subukan ulit, kung may malalasahan siya sa ‘isaw’ na pinabili niya kay Cloud.

Minutes later, Cloud came back with five pieces of isaw and a bottle of water. At sa limang piraso na binili nito, isa lang ang binigay sa kaniya.

Jacques scowled. “The fuck…”

“Try it first.” Wika nito. “Tingnan natin kung magugustuhan mo.”

Inis na tinanggap ni Jacques ang isang isaw saka tiningnan yon na parang sinusuri.

May malalasahan kaya siya?

Dahil hindi niya alam kung paano kainin ang isaw, pasimple siyang tumingin kay Cloud para obserbahan kung paano ito kumain.

Nang makita kung paano, kaagad niyang ginaya iyon at hindi alam ni Jacques kung anong hitsura ang ipapakita niya ng nasa loob na ng bibig niya ang isaw.

As usual. It tastes bland. He didn’t feel or taste anything at all. Maybe Cloud giving him food and him asking Cloud some food has different effects? How the fuck would I know?! At dahil masyado siyang focus kung may malalasahan ba siya, it was too late for him to realize that the food got stuck in his throat. He felt the pressure in his throat and the struggle to breath but not the discomfort or pain.

Jacques calmly took the water bottle in Cloud’s hand and chugged it down his throat. He never stops drinking until the pressure on his throat disappeared.

“You okay?” Kaagad na tanong sa kaniya ni Cloud matapos siyang uminom ng tubig.

Tumango siya saka ibinigay pabalik ni Jacques kay Cloud ang isaw na hindi pa niya nauubos.

“Tastes bad.” Pagdadahilan niya habang bakas sa mukha ang iritasyon dahil wala siyang malasahan. “Fuck!” He cussed in annoyance.

“Give me a sec.” Lumabas si Cloud ng sasakyan at itinapon ang stick sa basurahan saka bumalik kaagad.

When Cloud came back in the car, Cloud immediately drove the car. Mabilis itong nagmaneho patungo sa kung saan. Kapagkuwan ay biglang bumagal ang takbo ng sasakyan nila at pumasok iyon sa isang drive thru fast food Restaurant.

Confused, Jacques just watched what Cloud was doing.

Cloud ordered something — a drink — then when he got the order, he gave it to him.

“Here.” Inagaw nito ang hawak niyang water bottle saka ipinalit nito doon ang inorder nito. “It’s coke float — a soda with ice cream on top. It’ll help erase the bad taste in your mouth. This,” Cloud shakes the water bottle in front of him, “can’t help you.”

Jacques looked at the drink he was holding then he frowned at Cloud.

Iniisip ba nito na kaya siya uminom ng tubig ay para mawala ang lasa ng isaw sa bibig niya?

Jacques looked at the drink he’s holding again. Back in Spain, he was not allowed to drink this kind of stuff. His mother would surely scream at him for even holding one right now.

“Inumin mo na ’yan para mawala ang lasa ng isaw sa bibig mo.” Wika ni Cloud habang nagmamaneho ito palabas ng drive thru. “Hindi lahat, nagugustuhan ang lasa ng isaw. It’s an acquired taste.”

Jacques didn’t say anything and took a sip. He stilled when he tasted something. It’s the same taste as when he ate Cloud’s cooking and the sandwich! The same euphoric taste!

What the fuck is happening?!

“Don’t like it?” Tanong sa kaniya ng kasama ng nakitang natigilan siya.

“It’s okay …” he drawls, still confused.

“So picky.” Tumatawa na sabi ni Cloud saka pasulyap-sulyap sa kaniya na nagtanong. “By the way, what do you want for dinner? I’ll cook it for you since you work really hard today.”

It’s not like I can taste it . “Anything’s fine.”

“There’s no ‘anything’ on the menu. Try again.”

He sighed. “The same one you cooked last night.”

“The air fried chicken?”

“Yeah.”

“Okay.” Cloud glanced at him after a long minute or so. “You okay now, or I’ll drive some more?”

Jacques took a deep breath. “Let’s head back.”

Tumango lang si Cloud saka binilisan ang pagmamaneho. Siya naman ay nakatingin lang sa labas ng sasakyan. Nasa isip pa rin niya ang nalasahan niya kagabi habang kumakain ng vegetable salad na hindi niya maipaliwanag.

Cloud will be cooking the same food for him tonight. Would he be able to taste something? Would it be tasteless this time? Or maybe he was just imagining it because he was tired of feeling numb?

Who the fuck knows? Definitely not him.

ALAM NA ALAM ni Cloud na baliw ang boss niya, pero hindi niya inakalang mas may ilalala pa ang kabaliwan nito dahil lang sa lava cake na gawa ni Lady SM na kinain nila ni Lord Jacques.

Wala talagang sinasanto ang boss niya kapag inatake ito ng kabaliwan. His Lord chased him and Lord Jacques with his katana and he didn’t stop attacking them until Lady SM came to stop the Count.

And the audacity of his boss to blame everything on him and Lord Jacques. The mess and the broken furnitures. Samantalang ito ang bigla nalang nagwala.

His master’s craziness annoys him sometimes, and this was one of those times, but seeing the Marquess stomping his feet on the floor like a kid because of too much anger and frustration towards Count Knight was so amusing that it melted his annoyance away.

Naiiling nalang si Cloud habang hinahayaan ang nagpupuyos sa galit na Marquess na hilahin siya sa kuwelyo patungong garahe.

“That motherfucker!” Lord Jacques keeps on cursing his Lord to no end while dragging him towards the garage. “You motherfucking Count! Fuck you! Go to hell!”

He’s still angry, alright. So Cloud stayed silent and kept his laughter to himself.

Lord Jacques being angry was amusing to watch.

“Stop smiling!” Lord Jacques hissed angrily at him before slamming him on the Rolls-Royce window — Lord Jacques’ car. “So fucking annoying!” He hissed again and cussed.

Nakatingin lang si Cloud sa Marquess na nanggagaliiti pa rin sa boss niya. Nanatili siyang tahimik hanggang sa nagtatanong ang matalim nitong mata na nakatingin sa kaniya.

“What?!” The Marquess snapped at him.

Cloud sighed while leaning on the Marquess’ car. “I’m waiting for you to calm down.”

“Fuck you!”

“Mmm.” Cloud just hummed while looking at the fuming mad Marquess.

He’s already used to this kind of behaviour. Mas malala pa rito ang boss niya kapag nagagalit dahil namamaril ito at sa kaniya nito palagi itinututok ang baril. And it never break his calmness. Not even once.

Ilang ulit pang minura ni Lord Jacques ang boss niya bago ito nagtatagis ang bagang na ibinalik ang tingin sa kaniya.

“Why are you so calm?!” Lord Jacques snapped at him again. “Are you not even angry at what your master did?!”

“Used to it.” Cloud said with a shrugged.

Pagak itong tumawa. “No wonder you were cocky when you told me that you can endure my attitude. Your master is the worst!”

“Mmm.” Cloud just hummed while moving his chin upward.

“Fuck him!” Lord Jacques hissed before glaring at him. “And fuck you too!”

Cloud just let the Marquess fumed.

Pasimple siyang tumingin sa relong pambisig. Labinglimang minuto na itong galit at malapit na ring kumalma sa wakas.

Couple minutes later, Lord Jacques finally calmed down and went to open the backseat of his car to get something. When he resurfaced from the car, he handed him a new t-shirt.

“Don’t know if it’ll fit.” Anang Marquess, “were almost the same in height but you’re a bit bigger than me.”

Cloud just nodded and bit the new t-shirt in between his lips before taking off his tattered shirt caused by his master’s katana in front of the Marquess.

After dropping the torn shirt on the floor, he put the Marquess’ shirt on.

“It’s a bit tight.” Komento niya habang inaayos ang t-shirt na suot. “But it’ll do.” Kapagkuwan ay tumingin siya sa Marquess. “What now? You still mad? Still wanna curse? Or we’re gonna buy some furnitures?”

The Marquess sighed. “Let’s buy some furniture.”

Akmang sasakay ito sa sasakyan nito ng pigilan niya ito.

“Let’s use my car.” Aniya. “Hindi mo alam ang pasikot-sikot dito. At siguradong pagod ka pa sa pagta-trabaho kanina sa café. Unlike me, I’m used to working non-stop.”

Tumango lang ang Marquess at nauna na sa sasakyan niya.

Lihim namang napangiti si Cloud. Seeing the Marquess fuming mad was amusing but seeing him being submissive and just going along with him was more enjoyable, maybe because he knows how foulmouthed the Marquess was.

Lihim na napailing si Cloud. Even though he doesn’t know why the Marquess’ amuses him — and why he’s allowing this pompous ass to cuss at him, he doesn’t have the slightest idea.

He just enjoys his presence. That’s all.

Is it because I’m always alone and now I’m craving for company and I saw that with Lord Jacques because he’s also a Butler staying in the same house? Must be.

Sumakay siya sa sasakyan niya at sinulyapan ang Marquess. Naka-seatbelt na ito.

“Bago tayo umalis,” binuhay niya ang makina ng sasakyan saka bahagyang tumagilid paharap sa Marquess, “I have to tell you something.”

“What?”

“We’re broke.”

“I know.” The Marquess replied. “I’ll take care of it.” Kapagkuwan ay umiling ito, “you spoiled your master too much.”

He gave the Marquess a lopsided smile. “Want me to spoil you too?”

“Fuck you.” The Marquess replied.

Mahina lang siyang tumawa saka pina-usad ang sasakyan. Minutes later, Cloud pulled over in front of a Pharmacy.

“Wait— I thought we’re gonna buy some furnitures?” Nagtatakang tanong ng Marquess sa kaniya.

“Give me a sec.” Aniya saka nagmamadaling lumabas ng sasakyan at pumasok ng Pharmacy.

After buying the things he needed, he went back to the car and immediately went to work.

“Don’t move.” Sabi niya sa Marquess bago inumpisahang gamutin ang sugat nito sa braso na kagagawan ng katana ng boss niya. “Your wound is quite deep.” Obserba niya habang nililinis ang sugat nito. “Hold a little, this will sting a bit.” He said before putting an antiseptic on the Marquess’ wound and blowing a soft air on it to lessen the sting. “There. Done.”

Umayos ng upo si Cloud sa driver’s seat kapagkuwan ay natigilan ng makitang nakatingin sa kaniya ang Marquess.

There’s something in Marquess’ eyes that made his breathing hitched, taking him off guard.

“W-what?” He actually stuttered, stunning him.

Lord Jacques didn’t answer.

“May sugat ka pa sa ibang parte ng katawan?” Tanong niya habang nagtataka pa rin kung bakit ganun ang naging reaksiyon niya sa tingin ng Marquess. “Well?”

Umiling ito saka nag-iwas ng tingin. “Not that I know of.”

“Good.” Then he leaned in to the Marquess again, to put the gauze over the wound this time, and Cloud was taken aback by the Marquess’ sandalwood scent that made him move closer and sniff the intoxicating scent softly — it was intoxicating enough for him to want to bury his nose on Lord Jacques’ neck and inhale his aroma.

Good thing he was able to stop himself midway!

Fuck !

Mabilis niyang tinapos ang paglalagay ng gauze sa sugat nito saka tumikhim siya bago walang imik na pinausad ulit ang sasakyan.

While driving to the nearest Home Depot, Cloud’s head was in a mess!

He knew that what he just did wasn’t normal. No guy would sniff another guy! No scent has ever intoxicated him to the point that he wanted to bury his nose on that person’s neck — let alone from a guy!

Fuck !

Humigpit ang hawak niya sa manibela.

Something’s up with him. He’s being weird.

Something is definitely going on with me!

NANG MAKAUWI SILA ni Cloud mula sa Home Depot, dumeretso kaagad si Jacques sa kuwarto niya at kaagad na naghubad ng damit pagkatapos ay humarap siya sa life size mirror na nasa loob ng kuwarto.

Jacques checked every part of his body for cuts and bruises. He was relieved to see that other than his cut wound that Cloud cleaned earlier, there’s nothing.

Jacques stilled then chuckled remembering Cloud blowing a soft air on his wound after putting the antiseptic. Akala siguro nito mararamdaman niya ang hapdi na kalakip niyon. Cloud was very careful while cleaning his wound.

And he admitted, it was a good feeling. Being taken care of like a normal person.

Back home, when he gets cut or bruises, the Doctor would come to clean his wound or put something in his bruises, but there’s no care to it. It’s just a job. Alam niyang wala itong pakialam kahit hindi nito dahan-dahanin ang paggamot sa sugat niya dahil alam nitong hindi siya nakakaramdam ng sakit.

Everyone was taking advantage of his inability to feel pain. From his parents to every person in their household.

Madilim ang mukha na umalis siya sa harapan ng salamin at nagdamit ulit, saka binuksan ang cellphone niya na itinago niya sa ilalim ng kama niya.

There’s a message from Kaius — the person he considered as a close friend and also one of the leaders of the Triad.

From: Kaius V.

How’s it going?

Jacques replied. ’ Need a Doctor’s opinion. It’s urgent.’

From: Kaius V.

Call Doc. Kamden.

Sa sinabi nito, kaagad niyang tinawagan si Kamden. He’s a Doctor working for the Triad, he calls him sometimes for second opinion because Kamden knows his condition.

“Can’t talk right now.” Kaagad nitong sabi sa kabilang linya ng sagutin nito ang tawag niya. “I’m busy—”

“I tasted something, Doc.”

Natahimik ang nasa kabilang linya bago maingat na may pagtatakang nagsalita. “Like food?”

“Yeah.”

“But you can’t taste them.” Kaagad nitong sabi. “I mean you can, but it lacks flavour that it’s almost tasteless.”

“Yeah. I know. But I can taste now — I mean, not really.”

“How does the food taste?”

“I don’t know.” Aniya na umiling pa. “I can’t explain it but it taste weirdly good.”

“What?” There’s a frown in Kamden’s voice. “Fuck. I can’t tell you anything unless I see you and run some test. Where are you?”

“Philippines. Mission.”

“That’s a bummer.” Kamden sighed. “Okay, just answer some questions for me and I’ll try to give you answers.”

“Okay.” Jacques readied himself for the questions.

“What kind of food did you eat that you actually tasted the flavour?” Una nitong tanong.

“Air fried chicken.”

“And after that?”

“A sandwich.”

“And?”

“A soda with ice cream on top.”

“That’s weird.” Kamden tsked. “I can see no common denominator in those food you mentioned.”

Jacques took a deep breath. “There’s two actually.”

“What?”

“They all tasted the same to me and they’re all given to me by the same person.”

“Oh.” Kamden said like something clicked.

“Well?”

“Must be Psychological response.”

Nagsalubong ang kilay niya. “What do you mean?”

“Well, you’re a CIP patient. And because of gene mutation, you lack the sense of smell that’s why it affected your sense of taste as well. And that will never change, Sotelo. That’s why I said that it must be a Psychological response. Your brain is responding to this person and because of this response, you actually felt like you tasted something, when in fact, it’s just your brain. Amazing, isn’t it?”

Halos malukot ang mukha ni Jacques. “Now I’m just confused.”

Tumawa ang nasa kabilang linya. “Me too. The brain is the most complicated part of our body. Some parts of it remain a mystery. Fuck. Honestly, that’s just my opinion. Maybe this person triggered something in your brain. Don’t know what though. You have to see your Doctor to check and make sure of what’s going on with your body—”

“Wait, hold up!” He cut him off, “triggered what exactly?”

“Don’t know.” Kamden’s voice was like shrugging, “you have to get yourself check to make sure.”

“So it’s just a Psychological response?” Mabulong niyang tanong dahil hindi niya maintindihan ’yon.

“Could be, but not sure. Anyway, what did this person do to you that your brain responded to him?” Kamden sounded curious. “This person must have done something to make your brain respond that made you feel like you tasted something.”

“Don’t know.” Sagot niya. “I have to go.”

“Get yourself check, Sotelo. Make sure nothing’s wrong with you.” Bilin ni Doc. Kamden bago nito pinatay ang tawag.

Napatitig naman si Jacques sa cellphone na hawak.

What did Cloud do?

Nothing.

He just took care of him.

Care . Was it because of that?

Was care really enough for his brain to respond and make him think that he tasted something? Well, care was something his life lacks, so maybe that’s what triggered his brain?

Napailing siya. Hindi man siya makaramdam ng sakit ng ulo pero nararamdaman niyang parang sasabog ang utak niya dahil wala siyang maisagot sa sariling katanungan.

And then the culprit of his confusion knocked on the door and entered his room, holding a tray with food.

“Eat.” Maingat na inilapag ni Cloud ang tray sa pahabang bench na nasa paanan ng kama. “Tapos na kumain si Lady SM at ang baliw kong boss, kaya dinala ko na rito ang pagkain mo. Wala kang kasamang kakain doon sa kusina.” Jacques was just looking at Cloud while the latter was talking. “Sandwich, kalahating isaw at coke float lang ang laman ng tiyan mo kaya gumalaw ka na riyan at kumain ka na.”

Jacques couldn’t move. He was just looking at Cloud who got pissed because he wouldn’t budge.

“Gagalaw ka riyan at kakain o susubuan kita?” May pananakot sa boses nito.

While Jacques grimaced at Cloud when he said he’ll feed him. “Fuck you.”

“Fuck you too, Lord Jacques.” Cloud replied calmly before leaving his room.

Nang sumara ang pinto, kaagad niyang nilapitan ang pagkain at kumagat sa air fried chicken na luto ni Cloud.

And there it was … the taste that he couldn’t explain.

Jacques sighed and shook his head before speaking with thick sarcasm. “First, my body, and now there’s something wrong with my brain.”

Geez! I feel so fucking lucky.

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 4

“…EARTH to Cloud.”

Cloud blinked before looking at the owner of that voice. It was Lord Knight. Magkasalubong ang kilay nito habang nakatingin sa kaniya. Siya naman ay tumaas ang dalawang kilay habang nagtatanong ang mga matang tumingin dito.

“Yes, my Lord?”

Lord Knight was eyeing him suspiciously as he took a seat on one of the stool near the island counter. “Kanina pa kita tinatawag, hindi ka sumasagot. Nakatulala ka lang na parang baliw. What’s up with you?”

Cloud blinked then slightly shook his head. “It’s nothing.”

“Don’t use that on me, Cloud.” Tiningnan siya nito ng matiim. “You’ve been my Butler for more than a decade already. I know something’s bothering you when you’re like this. Come on, tell your boss, which is me by the way.”

Napailing siya. “It’s nothing—”

“Hindi kita tatantanan.”

Mahina siyang natawa. “You have to go to work, my Lord. Lady SM and Lord Jacques already left for work.”

“Nah. I can cancel that.”

Napailing ulit siya. “It’s really nothing.”

Bumuntong-hininga ang boss niya saka pinakatitigan siya. “Cloud, hindi ikaw ang tipo ng tao na mahilig makipag-usap sa hangin. That’ll be Shun because he’s a weird ass dude, so just tell me what’s bothering so I can go to work.”

Napabuntong-hininga si Cloud. His lord was a persistent motherfucker. Sigurado siyang hindi siya nito tatantanan. “Well … I did something that I normally don’t do. And I have a question to you.”

Maybe his crazy boss can help him.

“What?” The Count gave him all his attention while waiting for his question.

“Have you…ahm,” Cloud cleared his throat, “h-have you…” he couldn’t say it!

“Have I what?”

Cloud took another deep breath and spoke hurriedly. “Have you sniffed someone’s neck before?”

“Yeah.” That was quick. “SM’s.”

“Ahm…” he rolled his tongue in between his lips, “sniffing a guy’s neck, I mean.”

That question would make anyone frown or grimaced but his lord didn’t even bat an eyelash. Like it’s nothing. “Nope. Never done that before and not doing it in the future. The only neck I’m interested in sniffing is my baby’s.”

Cloud let out a shaky breath while leaning on the sink. “This is bad…”

Lord Knight’s eyes bored into his. “You sniffed a guy’s neck?”

He nodded. “Good thing I stopped midway.”

“Why did you sniff him?”

“He smells fucking good.”

Pinakatitigan siya ng boss niya. “Cloud, kung hindi lang nakita ng mismong mga mata ko ang hilig mo sa babae na halos hindi ko na mabilang kung naka-ilang babae ka na, iba ang iisipin ko sa sinabi mo.”

“Me too.” He agreed before a loud breath. “I know for a fact that I like women. A lot. And I’ve never sniffed a guy before. This is fucking confusing me, my Lord. I actually leaned in to fucking smell him!”

Itinaas ng boss niya ang dalawa nitong kamay sa harapan nito. “Calm down, Cloud—”

“How the fuck do I calm down?!” Napasabunot siya sa sariling buhok. His mind was a mess and he feels so frustrated. “Kagabi pa magulo ang isip ko! At ngayon, hindi ko alam kung anong iisipin ko! Why does he have to smell so fucking good anyway?! He’s a guy for fuck sake! And why the fuck do I like his smell?! Fuck it!”

“Wow…” his Master drawls while staring at him in awe, “so that’s why you were having a conference with the air.”

He looked at his boss with confused eyes while shaking his head. “I’m not … I can’t be …”

“Cloud,” umalis ito sa kinauupuan sala lumapit sa kaniya at ipinatong nito ang mgs kamay sa balikat niya. “Relax. Don’t jump into conclusion. Yet. I know for a fact that you like women. A lot. So, stop over thinking, and give it time. It’s just sniffing. No big deal.”

He looked at his master flatly. “Even you don’t do that and you’re weird.”

Inalis nito ang kamay sa balikat niya at nagkibit-balikat ito. “Just stop overthinking, okay. It won’t do you any good.”

Cloud took a deep breath. “Okay. I’ll do that.”

“But do tell me if it gets worse.”

“My Lord!” Cloud hissed.

The Count chuckled. “What?” He was still chucking to himself. “I know for a fact that no one can shake you. You’re always calm, even when I’m shooting at you, but this is the first time I’m seeing you in panic just because you sniff a guy. It’s fun.”

Cloud took a deep breath, closed his eyes and conditioned himself. “It’s just sniffing. No big deal. Just sniffing. It’s no big deal.”

“I don’t sniff my friends though, and we’re pretty close.”

Nagmulat ng mga mata si Cloud saka tiningnan ng masama ang boss. “My Lord, it’s not funny!”

Tumawa na naman ang baliw niyang amo. “Relax. Stop over thinking. You’re panicking over nothing. Saka ka na mag-panic kapag gusto mo na siyang halikan—”

“My Lord!” Cloud hissed and the Count laughed like he’s having fun seeing him in this state.

“Take a chill pill, Cloud.” Tinalikuran na siya nito at kumaway ang kamay nito. “Take care of my baby when she gets home.”

Cloud sighed when his Lord left the kitchen. Why did he even think that his crazy boss can help him solve this mess in his head?

Napailing siya saka sumandal ulit sa lababo. Now that he’s alone again, he can’t stop over thinking.

This hasn’t happen to him before. This was his first time liking someone’s scent that he actually wanted to bury his nose on the Marquess’ neck and inhale his aroma.

Ipinilig ni Cloud ang ulo.

His lord was right, he should calm down and give it time. No use overthinking in his situation. It will pass. It had to.

But waiting for something that he’s dreading to happen was like waiting to be hanged. The rope was already around his neck, and he’s just waiting for someone to pull the end of the rope to choke him with the truth.

Hinilot niya ang sentido. He should stay away from Lord Jacques while he’s figuring this mess in his head.

That’s right. That’s the best thing to do.

Cloud already made a decision to stay away from Lord Jacques for the meantime, when the reason why his mind was messed up entered the kitchen.

And it dawned on him. How the fuck do I stay away from him when we live in the same house?

“I want bacon and cheese sandwich.” Wika ng Marquess ng makapasok sa kusina saka umupo ito sa stool na kinauupuan kanina ng boss niya sa island counter.

He frowned at the Marquess. “Hindi ba galing ka sa café?”

“Yeah.”

“They have sandwiches there.” Aniya.

Lord Jacques shrugged, “I want to eat the sandwich you make.”

Cloud froze when he felt like something tickled his stomach by that simple statement. What the fuck was that?!

Tumikhim siya saka walang imik na nag-umpisang gumawa ng bacon and cheese sandwich. He worked faster than normal so he could send Lord Jacques back afterwards.

“Cloud?”

“Mmm?”

“Make me some coffee too.” Utos na naman ng Marquess.

“I’m not your Butler.” Wika niya para umalis na ito. “Doon ka na mag-kape sa café ni Lady SM.”

“I want to drink the coffee you make.”

Cloud took a very deep breath. Mind, calm down. Think of this as a test. Yes, a test that’ll prove that you like women.

As calm as he could be — he doesn’t even know why his hands were cold — he put the sandwich on the plate, placed it on the island counter in front of Lord Jacques, and then he went to make him some coffee.

And as he placed the cup of coffee in the island counter, his eyes settled on the Marquess’ wound in the arm.

And because I’m a fucking nice guy — note the sarcasm — I just have to ask. It’s like his mouth has a mind of it’s own. “Kumusta ang sugat mo? Masakit ba?”

Kaagad itong umiling bago kumagat ng sandwich. “It’s okay.”

“You sure?” Yes, like a broken record, I have to fucking ask again! Fuck this! “You’re really okay?”

“Yeah.”

Napatango-tango siya saka wala sa sariling napatingin sa mukha ng Marquess. And that was his biggest mistake that day. His mind just went blank as it focuses on Lord Jacques’ face.

This was his first time looking at a man’s face closely.

The Marquess was handsome. His complexion was slightly tanned, he has chiseled jawline, a prominent concave nose, and for a guy, he has beautiful shaped lips with deep cupid’s bow. He’s just an inch taller than the Marquess, and in body built, the Marquess was a bit leaner but with the right amount of muscles in the right places.

Women will definitely line up for this man. Cloud was sure of that. He has the kind of face that can attract any woman.

‘Saka ka na mag-panic kapag gusto mo na siyang halikan.’
Mariing ipinikit ni Cloud ang mga mata ng bigla nalang maalala ang sinabi ng boss niya.

And now it’s ringing in his ear like a damn broken record!

Cloud keeps hearing Lord Knight’s voice and words over and over again in his head.

Angry and frustrated at the memory, Cloud opened his eyes and unconsciously, his gaze dropped to the Marquess’ lips.

‘Saka ka na mag-panic kapag gusto mo na siyang halikan.’

Fuck you, Lord Knight! Fuck you for even saying it! Fuck you!

Cloud gulped and he literally had to forcefully drag his gaze away.

“Fuck…” Cloud hissed under his breath before clearing his throat and looking at Lord Jacques again, “what were you saying?”

Lord Jacques looked at him funny. “I didn’t say anything.”

“Oh.” Calm the fuck down! Cloud was screaming at himself in his head, but he remained calm from the outside. “Wash the dishes after you’re done. May inuutos sa ’kin ang baliw kong amo.” Pagsisinungaling niya saka lumabas ng kusina at tinungo ang garahe.

Nang nasa loob na siya ng sasakyan, tinawagan niya ang boss niya.

“What is it?” His Lord immediately answered his call.

“Please give me something to do.”

“I did.” Sagot nito. “I told you to take care of my baby when she gets home.”

“My Lord, please, I need to get my mind off something.”

His master sighed. “Fine. I’ll send you a coordinate. Help Dimitri clean up the Triad in the south.”

“Thank you, my Lord.” Pinatay niya ang tawag saka hinintay na dumating ang coordinates na kailangan niya para makaalis.

When he received it, he immediately left the garage, hoping that helping Dimitri clean up will also help him clear his messy mind.

I need to stop this — whatever the fuck this is—before it becomes too late.

JACQUES WAS DEEP in thought when someone placed a mango shake in the table he was occupying. Nang tingnan niya kung sino ’yon, kaagad siyang ngumiti ng makita si Lady SM.

“You must be tired.” Anito saka umupo sa bakanteng upuan sa harapan niya. “Salamat sa tulong mo rito sa Café, Jacq. I really appreciate it.”

Tumango at ngumiti lang siya.

His father sent him here to be Lady SM’s butler so he could dig some information for the Triad while serving her. But ever since he became her butler, she had been nothing but kind, and he could not find any hidden information related to her.

I have to dig deeper . He can’t go home empty handed.

Sumimsim si Jacques ng mango shake at hindi na siya nagulat na halos wala siyang malasahan. It’s okay. It didn’t frustrate him like it used to be because he just had a very tasty breakfast made by Cloud earlier this morning.

The taste might be just a Psychological response but he likes it. He likes the fact that he can taste something, even if it’s all just his brain’s doing.

“Ahm,” Jacques rolled his tongue in between his lips while carefully weighing the right words to say, “milady?”

Kaagad namang ibinigay ng kaharap ang atensiyon nito. “Yes?”

“Ahm…” sumimsim siya ng mango shake bago nagpatuloy sa pagsasalita, “about the Count’s Butler … does he even leave the Count’s house to relax and stuff?”

Umaktong nag-iisip ang kaharap. “Hmm… well, hindi ko pa siya matagal na kilala pero, parang hindi ’yon gawain ni Cloud. He’s always at home, cleaning and cooking, and spoiling Knight, even me, and now you. He’s always there when you need him. I think, he seldoms leave the house.”

He took a sip on the mango shake again. “He’s always at home so I was curious.”

“Ah,” ngumiti si Lady SM. “Cloud is a nice person. He’s a worrier as well. He cares for Knight like a family. Sobrang nagpapasalamat ako na may Cloud sa buhay ni Knight.”

Napatango-tango si Jacques. He wanted to ask more. He wanted to know more about the person who can trigger a Psychological response from his brain but opt not to push it.

“… but I sometimes wonder if Cloud has someone special.” Lady SM was frowning then she looked at him. “How ’bout you? May love life ka ba na naiwan sa Spain?”

Pinigil niya ang matawa. Who would want a guy like him? Not only he’s numb, he’s also moody, grumpy, easily gets annoyed and he has a dirty mouth. No one can handle him.

“Nope.” Jacques answered. “Not planning to. No one can stand me.” Sagot niya, kapagkuwan ay natigilan ng may maalala.

No one can stand him, except for Cloud. He can still remember when he was angry and cursing, but Cloud just stood there calmly and patiently waited for him to stop. Not even batting an eyelash for every cussed he has thrown at him while fuming mad.

Unfortunately, Cloud was a guy so … that’s a bummer.

“Well, break’s over.” Wika ni Lady SM saka tumayo ito at bumalik sa opisina nito.

Siya naman ay bumalik sa pagtulong sa café hanggang sa sumapit ang gabi at umuwi na sila ni Lady SM.

Nang makapasok sila sa bahay ng Conde, nagtungo si Lady SM sa ikalawang palapag ng bahay para magpahinga habang siya naman ay hinahanap si Cloud, pero nahalughog na niya ang buong bahay, hindi niya pa rin ito makita.

When he came back to the living room, he saw the Count entering the house.

“Si SM?” Tanong kaagad nito sa kaniya.

“Upstairs. Probably resting.” Sagot niya.

Tumango ang Conde at nilampasan siya para magtungo sa taas.

“Wait, you motherfucking Count.” Pigil niya sa Conde.

Lukot ang mukha na humarap sa kaniya ang Conde. “What is it, annoying Marquess?”

He hesitated at first before questioning. “Where’s Cloud? I didn’t see him.”

Ilang segundo siyang tinitigan ng Conde bago bumukas ang bibig nito, hindi para sagutin ang tanong niya kundi ang tanungin siya.

“Did Cloud sniff you?”

Nag-isang linya ang kilay niya. “Not that I know off.”

Tumango-tango ito bago nagsalita ulit. “Cloud’s in a mission. He’ll be home late. Let’s eat take out tonight.” Then the crazy Count grinned. “Don’t forget to pay for the take out, motherfucking Marquess.”

Tiningnan niya ito ng matalim na kinatawa lang nito saka tuluyan na itong umakyat sa ikalawang palapag.

Pabagsak siyang naupo sa sofa sa salas.

Take out for dinner?

Jacques puffed a loud breath. I want Cloud’s cooking. When is that bastard coming home?!

Iritadong umalis ng salas si Jacques saka tinungo ang kuwarto niya.

Pabagsak siyang nahiga sa kama at ilang minutong nakatitig lang sa kisame.

Then he heard his phone go off.

Cloud lazily check his phone. It was an alarm for him to defecate. It was set everyday so he won’t forget when to visit the toilet. Unlike normal person, Jacques can’t feel the discomfort a normal person would feel in their body when they want to visit the toilet.

In short, he can’t feel the urge to poop.

Standing up and leaving his bed, Jacques took off his clothes and went to the front of the life size mirror to check his body, like he always does, everyday. He even check the inside of his mouth.

He was relieved seeing there’s no bleeding, cuts or bruises on his body.

He sighed and carefully put back his clothes. Minutes after that, someone knock on the door.

Thinking it might be Cloud, with food for him, he immediately opened the door.

Jacques had to force his smile not to waver when he saw Lady SM.

“Take out food in the dining table.” Imporma nito sa kaniya. “Tara, kain na tayo.”

Umiling siya. “I’m full, milady.”

Kinunotan siya nito ng nuo. “Pero halos wala kang kinain ngayong araw.”

“Don’t worry about me, milady. I’ll come down if I ever get hungry.” He said, still with a smile.

“Okay.” Hindi na siya pinilit ng dalaga. “I’ll save you some food. Kapag nagutom ka, bumaba ka nalang, okay?”

Jacques nodded, said his thanks before closing the door to his room.

He sighed. Kahit pa siguro isang linggo siyang hindi kumain, hindi siya makakaramdam ng gutom. Ni hindi nga niya maramdaman kung busog na ba siya o ano.

Umupo siya sa gilid ng paanan ng kama saka pabagsak na ihiniga ang katawan sa kama. Then, Jacques grab his phone from the bedside table and he looked for Cloud’s number in his contacts.

Jacques stops scrolling when he found it. Cloud’s number was saved under the name ‘Nube’ which means cloud in Spanish and was pronounced as ’ No-beh’ .

He’s hoping Cloud has his phone with him.

To: Nube

Hey, asshole. When are you going home? I’m fucking hungry. Don’t want to eat take-out.

After he sent it, he didn’t know why he counted the minutes until Cloud replied.

Thirty-two minutes later. His phone beeped.

From: Nube

So picky. OMW.

Jacques frowned and replied. ’ What’s OMW?’

From: Nube:

On My Way, moron.

Jacques scowled and replied ‘it’s OTW . fuck you.’.

From: Nube

Yeah, yeah. Fuck you too, Lord Jacques. Anyway, what do you wanna eat?

Jacques smiled at the question and replied. ’ Don’t know. You decide.’

From: Nube

I’ll decide? Then I’ll buy take-out for you.

Sumama ang mukha ni Jacques. Kaagad niyang sinagot ang text ni Cloud.

’ Don’t you dare, you asshole!’

From: Nube

You and your filthy mouth, Lord Jacques.

Jacques replied. ’ Motherfucker. You’re gonna cook for me or what?’

From: Nube

So bossy. OMW.

Hindi na nagreply si Jacques. Instead, he throws his phone on the bed, then he got up and went to the bathroom to defecate.

Nang makalabas siya ng banyo, nakaligo na rin siya at hubo’t-hubad na naglakad patungong closet.

Jacques took his Label Under Construction plain black t-shirt from the closet and he paired it with black Givenchy 4G shell cargo shorts.

Akmang kukunin niya ang cellphone na tinapon niya kanina sa kama bago maligo ng mapansin niya ang pulang mantsa na nagkalat sa sahig ng kuwarto.

Jacques bend down to check the red smudge on the floor, that’s when he saw that it was blood and it was him who was bleeding.

Napabuntong-hininga nalang siya saka umupo sa gilid ng kama at ipinatong ang paa sa isang hita niya para tingnan kung anong sugat ang natamo niya.

Jacques didn’t even bother thinking when or where did he got the wound. No use. Instead, he went to the bathroom, rinse his wound, then he got his first-aid kit from his closet and he started cleaning his wound before wrapping it with bandage.

Pagkatapos nun ay nilinis niya ang dugo niyang nagkalat sa sahig. After he’s done cleaning, he checked his wound again. The blood was now soaking the bandage.

Hmm… it was that deep?

He really can’t tell because he can’t feel the pain.

Jacques tsked in annoyance before getting his first aid kit again from the closet. Pero natigilan siya ng makitang hindi na kakasya ang gauze na mayroon siya.

Just my fucking luck.

He sat on the bed again and replaced the blood-soaked bandage with new one. Then he reached for his phone to call Cloud.

Good thing the motherfucker answered.

“I swear, if you’re just gonna be bossy again, I’m not cooking for you, Lord Jacques.” Kaagad na sabi ni Cloud sa iritadong boses bago pa siya makapagsalita.

“Gauze pads and gauze bandage.” Sabi niya. “Buy me some.”

Ang iritadong boses ni Cloud ay biglang naglaho at napalitan ’yon ng malumanay na boses. “You okay?”

Jacques frowned at the sudden change of tone. “Yeah. I just need it. ASAP.”

“Okay. Be there in 20.”

“Okay.”

Jacques hanged up and looked at his wound. The blood was starting to soak the bandage again.

He let out a loud sigh and dropped his body on the bed. Ipinikit niya ang mga mata para makapagpahinga sandali habang hinihintay si Cloud na dumating, pero hindi niya namalayang nakatulog siya.

Hindi niya alam kung ilang oras siyang nakatulog, basta nang magising siya, napalitan na ang gauze na nakapalibot sa sugat niya at hindi na ’yon dumudugo.

Must be Cloud.

From the corner of his eyes, he saw a note on the bedside table. Binasa niya ang nakasulat doon.

’ You’re not allowed to move. Call me in the phone when you wake up. I’ll bring the food to you. – Cloud.’

Kinuha niya ang cellphone para tingnan kung anong oras na.

1:47 AM.

He tsked. Sigurado siyang tulog na ngayon si Cloud.

But I’ll try.

He opt to send a message rather than calling. Kung tulog na ito, hindi niya ito ma-i-isturbo kung text lang. He’s a jerk but he doesn’t like disturbing anyone’s sleep.

‘Still awake ?’ Then he hit send.

Five minutes later. No reply.

He must be asleep by now—

A soft knock on the door filled his room, then the door opened.

Jacques was a little stunned to see Cloud, carrying a tray with food.

“You’re still awake?” Gulat niyang tanong sa kapapasok lang.

Maingat na inilapag ni Cloud ang tray sa bench na nasa may paanan ng kama. “I was waiting for you to wake up.” Anito na mas ikinagulat niya. “Ininit ko pa ang pagkain mo kaya medyo natagalan ako.”

Jacques stared at Cloud, stunned at how earnest he was.

“Eat up.” Inilapit nito sa kaniya ang tray dahil medyo malayo siya sa bench, pagkatapos ay sinuri nito ang paa niya na may sugat. “Good thing it’s not bleeding anymore.”

“Mmm.” Jacques just hummed in response before he started eating. Nakaramdam siya ng saya ng may malasahan siya sa luto ni Cloud. It’s the same inexplicable taste, but he likes it. Whatever it was. He likes that he can taste something.

“How’s the mission?” Jacques ask while eating.

“Tiring.” Naupo si Cloud sa gilid ng kama.

“Rest then.”

Dahan-dahan itong nahiga sa gilid ng kama niya. “Kailangan ko pang ibaba ang kinainan mo at hugasan kaya hindi pa ako puwedeng magpahinga. Maybe later.”

“If you’re tired, you shouldn’t have waited for me to wake up.”

“Mmm…” Cloud hummed in response.

Jacques tsked, “I’m an ass but not that much.”

No response.

“Don’t wait up. Go rest. I can handle the tray and the dishes.” He’s not really that useless. He does know how to do stuff.

No response again.

Nilingon niya si Cloud dahil nasa likuran niya ito, “hey, Cloud—” napatigil siya sa pagsasalita ng makitang mahimbing nang natutulog ang lalaki.

“He must be really tired…” Jacques murmured.

Napailing nalang siya saka hinayaan itong matulog.

Tahimik niyang inubos ang pagkain saka siya na ang nagligpit ng kinainan. Bumaba siya sa kusina at hinugasan ang pinagkainan niya bago bumalik sa kuwarto.

Kapagkuwan ay nakapameywang na tumayo siya sa tabi ng kama habang nakatingin kay Cloud na mahimbing na natutulog.

Jacques doesn’t want to wake Cloud up, but it’s his bed. Saan siya ngayon matutulog?

Tinitigan niya ulit si Cloud at ang higaan niya.

Jacques tsked. What’s the fuss? It’s a big bed anyway.

Maingat siyang nahiga sa kabilang gilid ng kama — may napakalapad na espasyo sa pagitan nila ni Cloud — saka kinumutan ang sarili at si Cloud para hindi ito lamigin. Pagkatapos ay ipinikit niya ang mga mata para makatulog na rin.

He’s not used to sleeping next to someone. Everyone is vulnerable when sleeping and he has trust issues, so it’s hard for him to trust someone to sleep next to him. Especially since he can’t feel pain. He wouldn’t know if he’s being suffocated or killed in his sleep.

But it’s Nube … so it’s okay.

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 5

CLOUD WOKE up groggy. Medyo mahapdi pa ang mga mata niya at nagmamakaawa ang mga ’yon sa kaniya na bumalik ulit sa pagtulog pero naaninag niya ang liwanag na sumisilip sa kurtina ng bintana kaya pinilit niya ang sarili na bumangon.

He yawned and stretched his arms out and was about to go to the bathroom when he realized something.

This is not my room.

Then the memory from last night came crashing in his mind. He whipped his head back to the bed and he stilled when he saw the Marquess peacefully sleeping on the other side of the bed.

His eyes widened. Holy. Fucking. Fuck.

Cloud immediately distanced himself from the bed but couldn’t drag his gaze away from the sleeping Marquess. He looks so peaceful and innocent with his sleeping face that he felt himself softening for the pompous ass. So different when he’s awake — bossy and foul mouthed.

Cloud was just staring at the Marquess’ face and the next thing he knew, he was standing beside the bed, next to Lord Jacques and his hand was reaching towards Lord Jacques’ face to touch him.

Cloud didn’t know how or when he moved, but he was relieved that he caught himself doing what he was about to do midway.

Mabilis niyang hinila pabalik ang kamay saka marahas na umiling para magising na siya. Maybe it’s just my sleepy head. Maybe.

Quickly yet carefully, Cloud left Lord Jacques’ room and went to his room to take a bath and change clothes. After that, he went to the kitchen to prepare for breakfast.

Cloud slept late, maybe nearing 2AM and he woke up at 5AM. Cloud was used to this sleeping pattern that it didn’t bother him anymore. He was quick to make breakfast for everybody.

While in the middle of making garlic rice, someone entered the kitchen. Nang lingunin niya kung sino ’yon, kaagad na nagsalubong ang kilay niya.

“Why the fuck are you walking?!” Early in the morning and the Marquess was already pissing him off.

Alam niyang malalim ang sugat nito na hindi niya alam kung saan nito nakuha. Siguradong bubukas na naman ang sugat nito at dudugo.

The sleepy Marquess just grunted and walked towards him. Kapagkuwan ay patagilid itong humilig sa refrigerator paharap sa kaniya. Nakahilig din ang gilid ng ulo nito habang inaantok na nakatingin sa kaniya.

“I want my coffee warm, not hot, Cloud.”

Cloud just sighed heavily. He should be pissed because the Marquess was so bossy, but he can’t even get mad at him.

He wanted to ask himself ’ what the fuck is wrong’ but opt not to. What’s the use? Wala rin naman siyang maisasagot sa sariling tanong.

If The Marquess were a girl, Cloud would have understood why he felt that way — but The Marquess was a man! A man for fuck sake!

When he went on a mission yesterday, all it did was get his mind off of this mess in his head, but it didn’t clear his mind. One text from this pompous ass Marquess and the chaos in his head came crashing back in a jiffy.

And it made him realize one thing — whatever this was, it’s not going away anytime soon.

Marahas na ipinilig ni Cloud ang ulo. “Go, sit. I’ll prepare your breakfast.”

Tumalima naman ang Marquess saka umupo sa isa ng stool ng island counter. Siya naman ay tinapos ang ginagawang garlic rice, nagdarasal na sana gumising na ang baliw niyang boss at si Lady SM. He doesn’t want to be alone with the Marquess because he does weird things when they’re alone.

“Cloud?” Kuha ng Marquess sa atensiyon niya.

“Hmm?”

“When are you gonna teach me how to be a good butler like you?” Tanong nito. “I wanna help milady as much as I can.”

Gustong matawa ni Cloud ng maramdamang umasim ang mukha niya sa narinig. Naiiling na inayos niya ang sarili bago humarap sa Marquess at inilapag sa island counter ang agahan nito.

“Pareho tayong abala nitong nakaraang linggo.” Wika niya. “I’ll teach you if we’re not as busy anymore. And,” sinilip niya ang paa nito, “how’s your wound?”

Nagkibit-balikat lang ito habang kumakain.

“Masakit ba?” Tanong niya.

Kibit-balikat lang ulit ang sagot nito sa kaniya.

“Have you clean your wound?”

Umiling ito. “Do it for me.” Utos na naman nito.

Cloud should be angry because Lord Jacques was bossing him around again, but know what he did? He fucking complied.

He went to get the first aid kit and started cleaning Marquess’ wound while the latter eats his breakfast.

At habang nililinis niya ang sugat nito, may napapansin siyang kakaiba. He cleaned Lord Jacques wound, he put some pressure on it to thoroughly cleaned it, he also put a good amount of antiseptics on his wound … but he didn’t even flinch. Nothing. Not even a toe or a muscle movement that’ll indicate that it stung.

That’s just impossible.

Hindi normal na hindi man lang gumalaw ng kahit kaunti ang mga daliri nito sa paa o ang paa nito mismo. Alam niyang mahapdi ang antiseptic. It could make anyone flinch a little, but there’s no reaction from Lord Jacques.

Pasimple siyang napatitig sa Marquess. Does he had high pain tolerance like his boss?

But even his Lord would hissed or cursed or flinched every time he clean his wounds before and he has a high pain tolerance.

“Done.” Sabi ni Cloud saka ibinaba ang paa ng Marquess na nakapatong sa stool. “Sabihan mo si Lady SM na hindi ka makakatulong sa café ngayon. Bubukas na naman ’yang sugat mo. Rest for a few days.”

“Don’t want to.” Lord Jacques groaned. “I don’t want to be alone in this fucking house.”

“You have me. I’m not going anywhere.” As Cloud said that, he stilled. He sounded like a boyfriend saying that to someone special. Fuck. This is bad. Tumikhim siya. “Tapusin mo na ’yang agahan mo at ipahinga mo yang paa mo sa kuwarto mo. I’ll talk to Lady SM for you.”

Tumango ang Marquess at pinagpatuloy ang pagkain, samantalang siya naman ay inabala ang sarili sa kahit na ano lang na magawa niya sa kusina. Ayaw niyang tumuon na naman ang mga mata niya sa Marquess. He might end up liking his handsome face again.

Fuck !

But what’s the point of overthinking this anyway? E lahat ng tanong niya sa sarili niya, wala siyang kasagutan. And he wants answers, dammit!

He doesn’t know why he likes the Marquess’ scent. He doesn’t know why the Marquess’ amuses him and he sometimes find his antics cute. He doesn’t know why he can’t stay mad at the pompous ass. He doesn’t know why he just let the Marquess cussed at him when the only person he allowed to cussed at him was his Lord. He doesn’t know why he just let the Marquess boss him around. He doesn’t know why he does things the Marquess would like — example driving around without destination until the latter wants to go back. Cooking him food. Cleaning his wound. He doesn’t know why he’s worried of him. And above all, he doesn’t know why he likes seeing the Marquess’ face.

These were all new to him. Never in his life did he found a man handsome, other than himself. Never! Just now, and its confusing his fucking brains out.

He know he’s not gay. He likes women for fuck sake. He couldn’t be bisexual either because he doesn’t like men in general.

So what’s the deal with Lord Jacques? Am I turning bi? ’Yon ang gusto niyang malaman. Gusto niya ng kasagutan.

And he will only get his answer if he stopped overthinking, overly cautious and just let things unfold.

He might or might not like the answers to these questions but it’ll be the truth.

The truth wasn’t always pretty. He has to deal with it instead of running around in circle, confused as fuck.

Cloud took a deep breath. That’s it. That’s what he’s gonna do. He’s gonna face this head on.

No more overthinking. No more questioning himself. No more confusion.

He’ll just let things unfold on its own.

Come what may.

Huminga ulit siya ng malalim saka humarap sa Marquess. He’s now getting up from the stool and trying to carry the dishes to the sink.

“Leave it.” Aniya. “Ako na. Doon ka na sa kuwarto mo. Ipahinga mo ’yang paa mo.”

“I’m fucking fine.” Lord Jacques scowled at him before putting the dishes on the sink then he crossed his arms over his chest. “If I’m gonna stay home, I have to do something to not die in boredom.”

“Hmm…” Cloud crossed his arms over his chest as well while leaning on his side on the long counter top. “Movie?”

“Sure. Anything but chick flicks.” Lord Jacques grimaced in disgust. “Can’t fucking stand it.”

Mahina siyang natawa. “How about Saw, Conjuring, Insidious and A Quiet Place? All horror.”

“Is it good?”

He shrugged. “My Lord said it is, but he’s weird so, I’m not sure.”

“Hmm…” then Lord Jacques murmured. “Must be fun to watch it in the cinema.”

Nagulat siya sa sinabi nito. “You… haven’t been into a cinema?”

Lord Jacques scoffed. “I’m not allowed to leave the house for useless reason.”

Napatitig si Cloud sa Marquess. How strict was his parents? Kasing istrikto ba ng mga ito ang ama ng boss niya? But Lord Jacques looks like a spoiled brat with his bossy attitude and his obsession to anything luxurious and branded.

He sighed. You can’t really judge a book by its cover.

“Kapag magaling na ang paa mo, I’ll take you to the cinema.” Aniya.

“Mmm.” Tumango lang ito saka naglakad na palabas ng kusina.

Si Cloud naman ay titig na titig sa paa ng Marquess habang naglalakad.

Lord Jacques was just walking normally. He’s not even flinching from the pain as he put all his weight into his wounded feet as he walk. It’s like he has no wound at all. Normal people would be wincing or angling their feet so their wound would not touch the ground.

But the Marquess … he’s just waking leisurely.

Can’t he fell the pain at all? Or he’s just pretending to be tough? But why would he pretend?

Cloud shook his head and let out a deep heavy sigh. It’s a good thing that few minutes later, his boss and Lady SM entered the kitchen to have breakfast.

Taking care of the two made him forget his confusion for the time being.

NANG MAKAALIS NG bahay ang boss niya saka si Lady SM, naglinis muna ng buong kabahayan si Cloud. From the living room, to the second floor, to the garden up to the backyard. After he was done, he went to the library inside the house to check on some papers.

He’s not just the Count’s butler, he’s also the Secretary. Sa kaniya dumadaan lahat ng Business transaction na para sa boss niya. At dahil abala ang boss niya sa Orgánosi, halos siya na ang nagpapatakbo sa mga negosyo nito sa Spain.

Cloud was too focused on reading the reports sent by the CEO of the Bank that his boss owned in Spain when his phone beeped.

Looking at the screen, he saw that it was a text from Lord Jacques.

And then he saw the time.

1:57 PM.

“Fuck!” Cloud hissed before opening Lord Jacques’ text.

From: Marquess

Hey, asshole. You still alive?

Napangiwi si Cloud. Fuck! Why did I forget the fucking time?! Siya pa naman ang nagsabi ritong manood sila ng pelikula. Hindi lang ’yon, siguradong nagugutom na ito ngayon.

Cloud replied in caution.

’ What do you want for lunch?’

Few seconds later, his phone beeped.

From: Marquess

‘Fuck you. Go die.’

Yep. He’s mad . Mahinang natawa si Cloud. Nakikinita na niya ang galit na mukha ng Marquess ngayon.

Hindi na nag reply si Cloud. Ang ginawa niya, pumunta siya ng kusina at naghanda ng pagkain, pagkatapos ay inilagay iyon sa silver tray bago tinungo ang kuwarto ng Marquess.

He knocked first, then he entered after thirty seconds of waiting outside.

The Marquess was sprawled on the bed, and when the Marquess saw him, there was a killing intent in his eyes as he glared at him.

Hindi nagpaapekto si Cloud sa nakakamatay na tingin ng Marquess. Sa halip ay maingat niyang inilapag ang silver tray sa mahabang bench na nasa paanan ng kama bago humarap sa Marquess.

“You mad?” Kalmado niyang tanong dito. “Sorry, I got busy with work. I forgot—”

The clock on the bedside table that the Marquess picked up flew towards Cloud. Thanks to his fast reflexes, Cloud was able to caught the clock before it hits his face.

“That’s for making me wait, you motherfucker.” Anang Marquess habang kalmado itong nakahilig sa headboard ng kama. “I was bored to death. I should’ve just help milady in her café.”

Maingat na ibinalik ni Cloud ang relo sa bedside table bago nagtanong sa Marquess. “Still wanna watch?”

Lord Jacques scoffed. “Don’t fucking bother. Just go back to your fucking work. I’ll just sleep.”

Of course, Cloud didn’t listen. He left Lord Jacques’ room to go to his own room to get the DVD, then he went back to the Marquess’ room, used the DVD player just below the 72inches TV and moments later, ‘Saw’ was playing on the screen.

Then, Cloud, carefully picked up the silver tray, put it on the bed, next to the Marquess. “Eat while watching.”

Lord Jacques scowled, but seconds later, he started eating. Lihim na napailing at natawa si Cloud sa inakto ng Marquess. Kapagkuwan ay sa sarili naman niya siya napailing.

To actually find a man adorable when angry was just out of this world for Cloud. But here he was, finding the Marquess rather sightly for throwing the clock at him.

Jesus Christ … I am really going to that path?

Marahas siyang napailing saka naglakad paikot sa kama para maupo sa kabilang gilid niyon.

Cloud immediately leaned on the headboard, mimicking Lord Jacques’ position, and watched the horror film playing on the television.

“How’s your wound?” Tanong niya sa Marquess habang nakatutok ang mga mata sa pinapanood.

“It’s okay.” Then the Marquess huffed a breath. “Is this movie supposed to fucking scare me?”

Natawa siya. “Well, it’s a horror film.”

The Marquess tsked. “I’m not even scared.”

Marahan siyang napailing. “Manood ka nalang.”

Unconsciously, Cloud found himself glancing at Lord Jacques from time to time while watching the film. There are times that his stares would linger on the Marquess’ face and he would forcefully drag his gaze away from Lord Jacques’ face.

Good thing the Marquess stays oblivious to his stares. Or if he did notice, he just didn’t care.

Out of nowhere, Lord Jacques asked while still watching the film where someone was getting killed. “Do you really scream when you’re in pain?”

That question made Cloud frown. “Normally. Don’t you?”

For the first time since they watched the movie, Lord Jacques looked at him. “Do you scream when you’re in pain?”

“I tried to muffle the scream.” Then he joked. “Don’t wanna be a bitch.”

Mahina itong natawa saka ibinalik ang tingin sa pinapanood. Pagkalipas ng ilang minuto nagsalita ulit ito.

“I’m not really mad about you forgetting the movie. I was actually asleep the whole morning.” Anito. “I was just being a mitch.”

Cloud cocked his head at Lord Jacques in confusion. “Mitch?”

“A male bitch.” Lord Jacques chuckled. “That’s how the people working for my family call me behind my back. As you know, I don’t really have a good attitude.”

Natawa si Cloud. “That can’t be far from the truth. You are a mitch. Proof? Binato mo lang naman ako ng orasan.”

Lord Jacques laughed softly before he sobered up. “I probably won’t change. You see, I was engaged twice. Both couldn’t stand me so it didn’t work.”

Cloud frowned. “Why couldn’t they stand you?” He was clearly baffled.

Lord Jacques gave him a look that says ’ Really? You don’t know?’.

“I really don’t.” Sabot niya sa binigay ng tingin sa kaniya ng Marquess.

“I’m moodier than they are. That’s the reason.”

Natawa siya. “’Yon lang?”

Lord Jacques scoffed. “You can only say that because you can stand me,” the he stilled and looked at him, “actually, you’re the only person who can stand me when I’m being a mitch. Even my parents and relatives couldn’t. Maybe if you were a girl, I would’ve fuck you already.”

The Marquess’ last words stupefied Cloud for a couple of seconds, making his eyes widened, and when he recovered from the shock, without thinking, he said, “I would probably do the fucking.”

Halatang hindi seneryoso ng Marquess ang sinabi niya dahil mahina itong tumawa. “Unfortunately, we’re both males.”

“I know for a fact that a man can fuck another man.”

The Marquess froze, then he looked at him in shell shock, then he blinked. Repeatedly. His mouth kept opening and closing but it seems like he couldn’t find the voice to speak because of shock, so the Marquess just went back to watching the movie.

At napansin niyang hindi makapali ang Marquess, hanggang sa bumaling ulit ito sa kaniya, halatang nakabawi na sa pagkabigla dahil sa sinabi niya.

The Marquess moved to face him and asked. “I-is it me … the — the another man you’re referring to?”

Cloud didn’t break eye contact with the Marquess who looks bewildered and horrified at the same time. “I was just stating a fact, Lord Jacques.”

“Still,” Lord Jacques scowled. “If that other man is me … that’s a fucking big N-O. No. No way — wait! Why the fuck are we having this conversation anyway? This is just plain fucking weird.”

Cloud chuckled then shrugged. “I was just stating a fact. No need to be so worked up.”

The Marquess glared at him. “It’s because you said you’ll be the one doing the fucking while looking at me. Who wouldn’t be so worked up? It’s just the two of us here, Cloud.” Napailing ito. “You’re just as weird as your boss.”

Indeed his boss was weird but Cloud was pretty sure that his boss would never say what he just said to his friends.

Naiiling na umalis si Cloud sa kama saka umikot patungo sa bahagi ni Lord Jacques para maingat na ligpitin ang kinainan nito at inilagay iyon sa silver tray.

Cloud was about to excuse himself when he remembered something.

So Cloud turned around and looked at the Marquess who was watching the movie. “By the way, Lord Jacques,” the Marquess looked at him when he called his name, “if I wanna fuck you, you’d be naked and writhing by now.” He smiled then playfully winked at the Marquess’ shocked face before leaving the room.

When Cloud was already walking in the halfway, he shook his head in disbelief and chuckled to himself.

I can’t believe I just said that to a guy. Fuck!

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 6

THE FURNITURE the Marquess bought will be delivered today. They bought a lot of stuff to replace the things Count Knight broke when he went crazy, so the store offered to deliver it to their home.

Count Knight and Lady SM were upstairs, in their room, so it’s just him and the Marquess helping the delivery men to move the furniture inside the house.

Nang maipasok na lahat, nagpasalamat si Cloud sa mga nag-deliver at binigyan niya ang mga ito ng tip bago bumalik sa loob ng bahay.

Silently, he and Lord Jacques started working, taking out the furniture from the boxes and putting them in their designated place.

The living room was a mess as they work silently. Nabasag lang ang katahimikan ng bumaba sa salas ang boss niya at si Lady SM.

Lord Jacques’ face immediately grimaced in annoyance seeing Count Knight. The Marquess was still pissed about what happened days ago, when his boss went berserk just because of the lava cave Lady SM made.

“Sa labas kami kakain.” Imporma sa kanila ng boss niya, “Mag nuggets nalang kayo.”

“Yes, my Lord.” Cloud replied automatically.

Then Lady SM spoke to Jacques softly. “Kumain ka na rin kasama si Cloud. Have a fun dinner you two.”

They both grunted at Lady SM before returning to their work. Nang makalabas ang dalawa nilang amo, nabalot na naman sila ng mahabang katahimikan.

Well, ever since that day, when Cloud told the Marquess that if he wants to fuck him, the latter would be naked and writhing already, Cloud kept his distance. Because based in his observation, he does weird fucking shit when he’s alone with Lord Jacques.

It’s like he can’t control his body from moving, his mind from wandering, and his mouth from saying bullshit things.

Cloud knew that he said he’ll let thing unfold on it’s own — he even said ‘come what may’ — but, it was actually very hard to do, especially that his mind was now slowly wrapping around the truth.

It shook him, down to the core of his being when he thought of what he said to Lord Jacques that day, ’ if I wanna fuck you, you’d be naked and writhing by now’ , and he wasn’t even repulsed by it. Not even an ounce of disgust, if he’s being honest, he was turned on, and it almost sent him to a mental breakdown.

Sa buong buhay ni Cloud, hindi lang babae ang interesado sa kaniya. A lot of men also tried to get him into their bed, a lot of them tried and failed simply because he’s not into men. All his life, he only prefers females.

So this thing with Lord Jacques … it was only not hard to understand, but to accept as well.

Cloud knew he’s straight, all his life he’s straight as a flag pole — so what the fuck is this? His mind was having a hard time wrapping around it.

“…for dinner?”

Napakurap-kurap siya ng marinig na nagsalita ang Marquess, “anong sabi mo?”

The Marquess frowned at him. “I said please tell me that we’re not really eating nuggets for dinner.”

Cloud looked at Lord Jacques and he found himself staring at the Marquess longer than normal. Realizing what he was doing, he quickly averted his eyes.

This is getting exhausting, always keeping himself in check when the Marquess was around. He doesn’t like this. It’s too tiring. He’s too old for this shit!

“Anong gusto mong kainin?” Tanong niya habang inaabala ang sarili sa pagbubukas ng karton.

“Burger and pasta.” Mabilis na sagot ng Marquess.

“Sorry, but it’s just eggs and nuggets tonight.” They’re broke as fuck after all.

“Can we watch a movie after dinner then?” Lord Jacques asked before grunting at what he said.

Being in a room, alone with Lord Jacques, was the one thing Cloud wanted to avoid. “I can’t. I’m busy.”

“If so, then make me a burger and pasta now.” The Marquess was being bossy again and Cloud, of course, didn’t mind it. “I’ll finish up here.”

“You sure?”

“Yep.” Bumaling ang Marquess sa natitira pang karton na di pa nila nabubuksan. “I can manage.”

“Okay.” Was all he said before pushing himself up to go to the kitchen to cook.

Wala siyang ganang kumain kaya pang isang tao lang ang ginawa niya. He placed everything in the silver tray, the nuggets, the eggs, mango shake and a glass of water, then he carefully picked it up, put the tray on his right hand and walked towards the living room.

When Cloud entered the living room, the Marquess was busy opening the last medium size box with a sharp cutter in his hand. Lord Jacques was squatting in front of the box as he tried to cut it open.

Akmang ilalapag niya sa round table ang tray para tulungan ito ng makita niyang nawala sa anggulo ang cutter na hawak nito, at sa halip na mahiwa ang karton, dumeretso ang cutter sa tuhod nito.

Worry consumed Cloud but he couldn’t move to check on Lord Jacques because he was stunned seeing the Marquess with no emotion on his face. Not even a single streak of pain in his eyes. Nothing. He didn’t even flinch, didn’t change position and he just continued opening the box like he wasn’t bleeding on the floor.

It’s like … he couldn’t feel the pain at all.

Cloud knew that people who have insensitivity to pain exist, he had read an article about them before — but they’re rare.

It couldn’t be …

But Cloud remembered the Marquess not flinching even when he poured antiseptic on his wound, the Marquess didn’t even woke up that night, when he was cleaning his wound … the Marquess walking normally even when he has deep fresh cut wound on his feet. Nonchalantly saying that he’s okay. Then he remembered the Marquess asking him about ‘pain’ when they were watching the movie Saw.

Dumbfounded, Cloud looked at Lord Jacques. Was he one of those people who has Congenital Insensitivity to Pain?

Cloud took a deep breath, pulled himself together, placed the silver tray on the round table, he, then went to get the first aid kit.

Nang makabalik siya sa salas, nabuksan na ni Lord Jacques ang karton at mukhang wala itong kaidi-ideya na may sugat ito.

“What the fuck, Cloud?!” Gulat na sininghalan siya ng Marquess ng basta nalang niya itong hinawakan sa pulsuhan saka malakas na hinila patungo sa sofa at tinulak pa upo doon. “What the fuck?!” Singhal ulit nito sa kaniya.

“Don’t move.” Was all Cloud said before he sat on the floor, in front of Lord Jacques knees and he started cleaning his wound.

At mukhang doon lang napansin ng Marquess na nasugatan ito.

“Oh.” The Marquess said when realization dawned on him.

Good thing the Marquess was wearing cargo shorts. Madaling nalinis ni Cloud ang sugat nito at nilagyan niya iyon ng antiseptic bago tinakpan ng gauze pad.

Ilang segundo matapos niyang gamutin ang sugat ng Marquess, nag-angat siya ng tingin dito habang nakaupo pa rin siya sa sahig at ito naman sa sofa.

“CIPA patient?” Cloud asked.

Halos isang minuto ang dumaan bago sumagot ang Marquess. “Just CIP. I don’t have Anhydrosis.”

Cloud having a medical background understood the Marquess. “So you can still sweat?”

Tumango ang kaharap.

It’s a good thing that he can sweat. That means his body can regulate his temperature and he won’t suffer from high fever. And he can also feel if it’s hot or cold.

“For CIP patients, a gene mutation can occur that will affect your body. But it doesn’t happen to everyone.” Cloud looked at the Marquess in the eyes. “Did it happen to you?”

Halos isang minuto ulit ang lumipas bago sumagot ang Marquess sa pamamagitan ng pagtango ng ulo nito.

“Anong … naapektuhan sa ’yo?” Marahan ang boses na tanong niya kapagkuwan ay bumuntong-hininga siya. “Hindi mo ’yon kailangang sagutin kung hindi ka komportable.”

“Sense of smell.” Lord Jacques said in a whisper but Cloud heard him clearly.

Umawang ang labi niya. “You can’t smell?”

The Marquess looked away, like he was ashamed to admit it. “I can smell … but it has to be severe and excessive odor for my nose to pick it up.”

Nakaawang pa rin ang labi ni Cloud sa Marquess. If the Marquess’ sense of smell was affected, does that mean his sense of taste as well? Smell and taste are somehow connected after all.

“How’s your sense of taste?” Cloud asked.

Lord Jacques’ face contorted in irritation. “It needs to have a very excessive flavour for me to fucking taste it. Example sugar, for normal people 100% is already fucking sweat, for me, I can’t taste it. It has to be 500% or more for me to taste the fucking sweetness. But if I put that much sugar on my coffee, then I’ll die fucking early.”

Cloud squeezed his eyes shut. He feels like someone’s twisting his inside. He feels awful. He wanted to hurt someone. If CIP has a physical body, Cloud would have beaten it to death.

“If you pity me. I’ll kill you.” Lord Jacques said.

Cloud opened his eyes and looked straight to Lord Jacques’ hazel orbs. “Look at me and tell me if I pity you.”

While looking into Cloud’s eyes, Jacques never saw even a sliver of pity in his eyes. What the Marquess saw was worry and sadness.

Bumuntong-hininga ang Marquess saka mahinang natawa. “I wasn’t planning on telling anyone, but here we are.”

Huminga naman ng malalim si Cloud saka tumayo mula sa pagkakaupo sa sahig, kapagkuwan ay kinuha ang tray na nasa round table para ibalik ’yon sa kusina.

“W-wait,” pigil sa kaniya ng Marquess na hinawakan pa siya sa braso, “my dinner.”

Cloud scowled at the Marquess. “I’m not planning on feeding you food you can’t taste.”

“But i—”

“No buts.” Bumaling siya sa nag iisang karton na may laman. “Tapusin mo na rito at linisin mo na rin ang kalat. Be careful not to get cut again. I’ll be in the kitchen to cook you something else.”

Hindi na hinintay ni Cloud na makasagot o magreklamo ang Marquess. Bumalik siya sa kusina.

He was determined to make something that Lord Jacques can taste. But the flavour must be excessive. Pero kapag sinobrahan naman niya ang ilalagay na ingredients, siguradong magkakasakit ito.

He has to think of other ways. He has to use other spices that will not ruin Lord Jacques’ health. But what are those spices?

Cloud was really thinking hard when Lord Jacques entered the kitchen. Kinunotan nito ng nuo si Cloud, lalo na ng hindi napansin ng huli na nakaupo na ang Marquess sa stool ng island counter at kinakain ang nuggets na niluto nito.

Then Cloud snapped when he finally noticed Lord Jacques and saw him eating the nuggets. “Hey! Don’t eat that!”

Lord Jacques rolled his eyes at Cloud. “Seriously, Cloud. I’d been eating tasteless food since I can remember.”

Cloud looked at Lord Jacques with determination. “It’ll take me some time to gather the spices I need, I have to experiment with flavours, but I promise you, I’m gonna make you a food that you can taste without ruining your health. I swear.”

Napatigil sa pagkagat ng nuggets ang Marquess saka tumitig ito kay Cloud. “Why do you care?”

Cloud smiled. “Because I’m one hell of a Butler.”

Napailing ang Marquess saka bumalik sa pagkain ulit. “Seriously, Cloud, if you were a woman, I’ll marry you in a heartbeat.”

“I know for a fact that a man can marry another man.”

Umasim ang mukha ng Marquess saka umiling. “Don’t care. I rather die alone and lonely.”

For some reason, Lord Jacques’ word stung a bit. Hinilot ni Cloud and sentido.

Me and my mouth . This always happens when I’m alone with the Marquess. Saying bullshit things seems to be his new hobby now.

Cloud took a deep breath and releases them softly. He wanted to get away from the Marquess but his mouth just had to open and speak without his permission again.

“If you can’t feel pain, can you feel pleasure … like sex?”

Napatigil na naman sa pagkain ang Marquess para sagutin ang tanong niya. “Yeah… but it takes a lot of time to turn me on and it has to be rough.”

“So if I kiss you right now, you’ll actually feel something?”

The Marquess stared at him, dumbfounded at the words that came out from his mouth.

See ? Saying bullshit things was now his new motherfucking hobby.

Then his eyes accidentally landed on the Marquess’ slightly parted lips, unconsciously, Cloud licked the corner of his own lips with the tip of his tongue.

Cloud didn’t know what possessed him when he asked the Marques. “Hey, can I kiss you?”

Lord Jacques scoffed and glared at Cloud. “Kiss, my ass, you motherfucking bullshit. Try and die, asshole.”

Cloud tsked. “My head hurts.” Hinilot niya ang sentido. He wanted to put a packing tape on his own mouth so it won’t say any bullshit things again, that’s making his head hurt dealing with the aftermath.

“Here, you motherfucker.” Using his fork, the Marquess offered him a nugget. “You haven’t eaten yet. Maybe that’s why your head hurts and you’re saying fuckin’ stupid things.”

“Nah.” Umiling siya habang hinihilot pa rin ang sentido. “I’m pretty sure my head hurts because of too much thinking.” Ipinatong niya ang mga siko sa island counter habang sapo ang ulo niya. “Fuck. I’m exhausted. If this continues, I’m gonna have a mental break down soon.”

“Care to tell me what’s going on? Might help a motherfucker like you.”

Nag-angat siya ng tingin sa Marquess, ang dahilan kung bakit masakit ang ulo niya. “Nah. You’re not gonna like it.”

“Try me.” The Marquess looks confident. “I told you about my condition, it’s only fuckin’ fair to tell me what’s making your head hurt.”

Mahina natawa si Cloud habang nakatingin sa guwapong mukha ng kaharap. Yes. I just complimented a guy. “It’s nothing.”

“Come on. Tell me.” Giit nito.

“It’s nothing. Really.”

“I don’t believe you. Just tell me.” Pamimilit nito.

Bumuga ng marahas na hininga si Cloud saka umayos ng tayo. “It’s okay — I’m okay. Whatever this is, It’ll pass I guess.”

“And if it don’t?”

Cloud looked straight into the Marquess eyes. “Then you should get ready, because I will eat you up in more ways than one.” Cloud, then, left the kitchen and went to the living room.

The boxes were piled up in the corner but it’s still messy, so to take his mind off of the Marquess, Cloud started cleaning and vacuuming the whole place.

Few minutes later, the Marquess was helping him clean up. Pareho silang tahimik. Ayaw ni Cloud na ibuka ang bibig at makipag-usap baka ano na naman ang sabihin niya.

Nuong una, hindi niya ma-kontrol ang galaw ng katawan, ngayon naman ang bibig niya. Kung ngayon palang ito na ang epekto ng Marquess sa kaniya, ano pa kaya kung magtagal ’tong nangyayari sa kaniya?

Will he lose his mind?

Cloud tsked and just focused on vacuuming the whole house.

At ’yon ang napasukan ng boss niya at ni Lady SM na kakauwi palang. And then his crazy boss gave them food to eat for dinner.

Cloud went along and converse with Lord Jacques. Ayaw niyang may mahalata ang boss niya at si Lady SM. It’ll only burden them.

And Lord Jacques was doing the same thing — he’s acting normal, saying things that normal people would say about food. Even though he know all too well that the Marquess could’tappreciate the steak.

“Here.” Lord Jacques gave him the steak when they entered the kitchen.

Umiling siya. “Hindi ako nagugutom.”

“But you haven’t eaten anything.”

“I’m good. Ikaw nalang ang kumain. Kung busog ka naman na, ilagay mo nalang sa ref.”

“That’s the thing, I don’t know if I’m already full.”

Gulat na napabaling siya sa Marquess. “Seriously?”

Tumango ito saka ito na ang naglagay ng steak sa ref. “I can’t feel hunger or fullness.”

“That sucks.” He commented.

“Yeah.” Then the Marquess looked at him. “So … wanna watch a movie? It’s still early.”

Cloud has already decided to stay away, but to his horror, his head nodded like it has a mind of its own.

The Marquess looks pleased at his response. “Great. Let’s watch the Conjuring this time. Maybe that’ll scare the fuck out of me.”

“Mmm…” Cloud can only hum, before returning to the living room to finish cleaning.

JACQUES WANTED TO laugh at Cloud’s thoughtfulness. Cloud actually readied popcorn before the movie. Alam nitong wala siyang nalalasahan pero naghanda pa rin ito ng pagkain. For that reason, Jacques felt relieved. Even knowing his condition, Cloud didn’t change how he treats him and above all, he didn’t pity him.

There was no pity in Cloud’s eyes, just genuine sadness and worry for him. And for that, Jacques chose to overlook Cloud’s bullshit statements.

Even though Cloud sometimes says things that a normal guy wouldn’t say to another guy, Jacques still wants to keep him around. Maybe Cloud was just being weird, like his boss, the Count.

Jacques sighed and his eyes landed on the man sitting on the couch, few feet away from his bed where he was sitting. Nakatutok ang mga mata nito sa TV habang nanonood.

Suddenly, he felt awful, remembering why he’s here, in this house. Why he’s trying so hard to be Lady SM’s butler. He’s here to spy and gather information for the Triad’s advantage. He doesn’t even want to think what will happen if Cloud finds out the truth.

Those sad and worry eyes will surely turn into hate once Cloud knows the truth.

Jacques scoffed at himself for feeling like a prick. It’s not like this was his first time being a spy for the Triad, he already did this countless times.

And pinagkaiba lang ngayon, may Cloud siyang nakilala. A nice but sarcastic guy, caring but annoying at the same time.

The only person who can stand his mitchiness, another word for male bitchiness. Even Kaius can’t stand him, and they’ve been friends since they were young. When he’s being a mitch, Kaius would just leave, saying they’ll talk once his mitch fit was over.

Only Cloud stayed while he’s being a male bitch. While he’s throwing curses after curses at him, while shouting at him, Cloud stayed and just listened to him until he calmed down. He waited patiently for him to calm down.

That’s why when this was all over, he knew he’s gonna regret it. Because he will surely lose Cloud’s genuine thoughtfulness, care and worry.

The Marquess sighed again before returning his attention to the movie.

“Cloud?” Tawag niya sa lalaking nakaupo sa couch.

“Hmm?”

“Come sit on the bed.” Aya niya rito. “How can you eat the popcorn you made if you’re sitting there?”

“It’s cool. I made it for you anyways.” Then Cloud sighed. “I might say some stupid things again, better keep my distance.”

Tumaas ang dalawa niyang kilay. So even he’s aware himself that he’s saying some stupid things.

Natatawang napailing siya. “Come on. Sit on the bed, you’re too far away. I’ll ignore whatever bullshit you’re gonna say.”

“It’s confusing the hell out of me too.” Napakamot ito sa batok habang naglalakad patungo sa kama kung saan siya naka-upo. “Never said those things to a guy before.” Anito ng makaupo sa kabilang gilid ng kama.

“Then why say those bullshits to me?” Tanong ng Marquess habang nakatutok ang mga mata niya sa TV.

“Don’t know.” Sagot ni Cloud.

The Marquess sighed and just focused his attention on the film they’re watching.

Moments later, he was about to say something to Cloud when he heard a soft snore. Bumaling siya sa katabi at napailing ng makitang natutulog na ito.

Cloud was sitting earlier, but he’s now lying on the bed. He must have change position slowly without him noticing.

Kinumotan niya ito saka nagpatuloy siya sa panonood ng pelikula hanggang sa natapos ’yon. The movie was scary, but not enough to scare the fuck out of him.

Maingat na umalis sa kama si Jacques para i-off ang DVD at TV, saka kinuha niya ang first aid kit para linisin ang sugat niya sa paa na sa wakas ay naghilom na rin. Pagkatapos ay tumungo siya sa harap ng salamin at tiningnan kung may iba pa bang parte ng katawan niya ang may sugat.

Jacques found some bruises on side edges of his tongue. Shit . He must’ve bit it while eating or something.

He sighed and took the oral mouthwash, Kamden — the researcher slash Doctor slash Scientist under Triad’s payroll — made especially for his mouth, and then he went inside the bathroom.

He gargled the mouthwash, leaving it inside his mouth for two minutes before spitting it on the sink. After that, he went back to his bed, off the lights except for the lampshade on the bedside table on his side.

Cloud was still snoring softly while Jacques laid flat on the bed, staring at the ceiling, awake and couldn’t seem to sleep.

Hindi alam ni Jacques kung ilang minuto o kung isang oras na ba ang lumipas na nakatihaya at nakatitig lang siya sa kisame. Hindi siya inaantok. Wala namang laman ang isip niya, talagang hindi lang siya makatulog.

Then he heard a shuffle of movement on his side. Curiously, he looked at his side, confused when he saw Cloud got up and then one by one, he stripped his clothes off only leaving his boxers on. Then he flopped on the bed, lying on his tummy while his face was facing him.

Hindi alam ni Jacques bakit siya natawa. Siguro dahil hindi man lang napansin ni Cloud na wala ito sa sariling kuwarto nito. He must be really tired not to notice.

Naiiling na pipikit na sana ang mga mata ni Jacques para pilitin ulit na patulugin ang sarili ng marinig niya ang inaantok at pabulong na boses ng katabi.

“Smells like Jacques…”

Jacques snapped his eyes at Cloud and saw him nuzzling the pillow with the softest smile he had ever seen Cloud wore, before falling back to a deep slumber again.

That was the first time Jacques heard Cloud used his name without a ‘lord’ attached on the front.

Hmm… I like it better . With that thought, Jacques closed his eyes and forced himself to sleep.

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 7

CLOUD STOPPED sucking the lollipop in his mouth when he saw his lord walking towards him in the small pavilion inside the garden. Nang makapasok ito sa pavilion, hindi ito umupo, nanatili lang itong nakatayo habang pinagmamasdan siya.

“So…” his boss drawls before continuing with a teasing tone, “have you fantasized about him yet?”

Cloud took out the lollipop in his mouth and sighed. “It’s getting worse. I wanna kiss him now.” He looked at his boss before shaking his head in disbelief, “I don’t think I can stop this. I’m trying, but I’m failing.”

“Why do you wanna stop?”

Cloud at his boss incredulously. “You really have to ask, my lord?”

The Count shrugged. “I’m just curious.” Then his lord explained. “I mean, this is your first time feeling this way, when I felt it with SM, I didn’t hold back … that’s why I’m asking if you really wanna stop? You don’t wanna know how it will go?”

Cloud’s head hung low. “I don’t know.” Naaalala pa niya ang kaguluhang naramdaman ng magising ulit siya sa kuwarto ng Marquess ilang araw na ang nakakaraan. Only with his boxers on. Shock was an understatement of his life that morning. “I’m confused. I don’t know what to do.”

“Do you want advice from me?”

Napatitig siya sa boss niya. His lord might be crazy most of the times but he’s the most earnest man he knows. “Yes, my Lord.”

“You can’t accept the fact that you like a man that’s why you don’t know what to do.” Panimula ng boss niya. “That’s the root of your problem and it confuses you because in your mind, you’re only allowed to like women. All your life, you always prefer women, and now, fate played a trick on you. But it’s your decision if you wanna accept the changes in you or not, but let me tell you this and listen to me very well— liking a man doesn’t make you less of a person, Cloud. For me, whomever you like, you’re still you and nothing can change that.”

Napangiti si Cloud sa tinuran ng boss niya saka ipinasok ulit ang lollipop sa bibig. “I actually went to a gay club last night, after we got home from the Grocery and the Mall.” Pagkuwento niya saka mahinang natawa. “I was investigating myself. I’m confused as fuck and I want answers.”

“Did you get your answers?” Tanong ng Conde.

Cloud blows a loud breath. “There are a lot of good looking guys there, but, I didn’t feel it. I mean, I’m not attracted to them, my Lord.” Napailing ulit siya saka bumuga ng marahas na hininga. “Only one person can make me feel that way.”

Bumuntong-hininga ang Conde saka lumapit sa kaniya para tapikin ang balikat niya. “As I told you before, don’t overthink. Just let things unfold. Because the more you repressed it, the more it’ll come out.”

“I’m trying, but it’s really hard wrapping my head around it.”

The Count messed his hair, it was the first time The Count did that to him. “I’m just here, Cloud, not as your boss, but as a friend and a family and whatever you decide, I’ll support you. Whatever your sexuality maybe, I don’t give a fuck. You’re Cloud, my Butler. Nothing in this world can change that.”

He slightly bows his head. “Thank you, my Lord, for not judging me.”

His lord snorted. “Who am I to judge? It’s your feelings and there’s nothing wrong with it anyway.” Then the Count tapped his shoulder again. “Basta kapag gusto mo ng kausap, nandito lang ako. But make sure that I’m not in my crazy weird ass mood — which is,” The Count frowned at himself, “most of the time, so … beware.”

Mahina siyang natawa sa baliw niyang boss. Kapagkuwan ay nagsalubong ang kilay niya ng makitang nakakunot ang nuo nito sa kaniya.

“What?” Cloud inquired at his boss.

Tinuro nito ang lollipop na nasa bibig niya. “You’d been eating that since last night. You practicing?”

Cloud’s mind actually buffered for a couple of seconds before his boss’ words sunk in. His eye widened and he felt his ears were on fire. “My Lord!” Hindi niya napigilang pagtaasan ito ng boses.

Tumawa lang ang baliw niyang boss. “What? Just asking.”

“Fuck!” Nasapo ni Cloud ang ulo. “Fuck! This is all your fault, my Lord. Nuong una hindi pa ito ganito kalala, pero nang sabihin mong saka na ako mag-panic kapag gusto ko na siyang halikan, hindi na ’yon nawala sa isip ko. And every time I fucking look at him, I wanna kiss him because what you said got stuck in my mind! And now you’re saying this kind of things again! What if I think of it when I see him? What am I gonna do, huh?!”

Tawa lang ng tawa ang baliw niyang amo saka tumalilis ito ng alis. “Good luck, Cloud!” Pasigaw nitong sabi habang mabilis na naglalakad paalis. “You’re gonna need it!”

Nasapo ni Cloud ang ulo niya. He was hoping and praying that it wouldn’t be stuck in his head and then his tongue rolled around the lollipop inside his mouth.

And his mind just completely went in to the gutter.

Cloud squeezed his eyes shut. Fuck you, my lord! Fuck you!

Inalis lang ni Cloud ang pagkakasapo sa ulo niya ng marinig ang boses ng Marquess na tinatawag ang pangalan niya.

“Cloud! Come on! Let’s go!”

Hinilot niya ang sentido dahil mapapalaban na naman siya para hindi makapagsalita o makagawa ng kahit na anong hindi maganda sa Marquess.

Tumayo si Cloud saka umalis ng pavilion at naglakad pasalubong sa Marquess na papasok ng hardin.

“Come on, asshole!” Lord Jacques glared at him. “Don’t make me wait! Let’s go to Divisoria now! I have to buy some fucking clothes!”

“Mmmm.” Was all Cloud’s response before going to the garage, the Marquess was trailing behind him.

The drive to divisoria was silent. Cloud was in his own personal bubble. He was trying to clear his mind and he’s trying not to overthink.

“…you can drop me off here.”

Napakurap-kurap si Cloud sa narinig saka nagtatakang bumaling sa nasa passenger seat. “What? Why?”

The Marquess scowled at him. “I’d been calling you for so many times already, but you’re deep in fucking thoughts.” The Marquess was irritated. “If you’re not up for it, I can go alone.”

“Sorry.” Kaagad niyang sabi saka bumuga ng marahas na hininga. “May iniisip lang ako.”

“What were you thinking that you can’t even fucking hear me calling you and I’m just right here?” Puno ng iritasyon ang mukha ng Marquess.

“You’re not gonna like it.”

“You always say that.” Lord Jacques tsked. “It’s fucking annoying.”

Humugot ng malalim na hininga si Cloud. “I don’t want to make you uncomfortable, Lord Jacques.”

The Marquess just scoffed.

Cloud just shook his head when he found the scoffing Marquess cute. It even made him smile.

“What are you smiling at?” Lord Jacques snapped at him angrily.

With a smile, he glanced at The Marquess, “nothing. Anyway, what do you want for lunch? I’ll cook it for you.”

“Really?” Kaagad na nag-iba ang emosyon sa mukha ng Marquess. From annoyed to happy and Cloud felt this twist and tingle in the pit of his stomach. Instead of questioning what that was, he ignored it.

“Last night, you came home so fucking late. I had to eat take out with that motherfucking Count and milady.” The Marquess’ face was twisting in annoyance again.

Cloud stifled a laugh. How Lord Jacques can turn from annoyed to happy and annoyed again was beyond him. But he’s adorable so Cloud’s not gonna complain.

“Why do you hate take-out anyway?” Tanong niya sa Marquess. “You can’t even taste it.”

Lord Jacques sneered at him. “Fuck you!”

“No, I’m not trying to offend you or anything, Lord Jacques.” Kaagad niyang paliwanag. “I’m just curious. Why do you hate take out when you can’t even taste it, same as you can’t taste the food I make?”

Umingos ang Marquess. “Fuck you. Why the fuck would I answer you, hmm? You didn’t even answer my fucking question earlier. Only fuckin’ fair.”

Napailing si Cloud. “You and your dirty mouth, my lord.”

“So what if I have a dirty mouth?” The Marquess was irritated again. Pinagkrus nito ang mga braso sa harapan ng dibdib. “What’s it to you?”

“I might kiss it clean.” Sagot niya habang nakatutok ang tingin sa daan, kaya hindi niya nakita ang gulat sa mukha ng Marquess.

“You’re talking bullshit again.”

“I’m not.” Ani Cloud sa seryosong boses.

“Don’t pissed me off, Cloud.”

Cloud showed a lopsided grin at the Marquess, his flirty self was trying to come out. “I’m a good kisser. Wanna try?”

The Marquess face darkened. “Cloud!”

Cloud chuckled at the Marquess’ dark and scary looking face. Then he shook his head in defeat. How could a man look adorable when angry? It’s just beyond me.

Pangiti-ngiti si Cloud habang nagmamaneho. Kanina lang ang bigat-bigat ng pakiramdam niya at naguguluhan siya, pero ngayon, magaan na ang pakiramdam niya at masaya siya.

This always happens when he’s with the Marquess. Kapag hindi niya ito nakikita, naguguluhan siya at hindi alam ang gagawin, pero kapag kasama naman niya ito, may kaguluhan pa rin sa isip niya pero masaya siya. He likes feeling this kind of happiness. He never felt like this before.

With his previous lovers, sex was only the good part. Talking to them was boring, he never paid attention to them, he never cared about their likes and dislikes and he never went out of his way just to please them. Yes. I’m an asshole.

But with the Marquess, he’s doing everything he never did before. He’s feeling things he never felt before.

And he doesn’t want to let it go. He wants that feeling to stay. Now he understood what his boss was trying to say earlier when he asked him if he really wanna stop.

After the realization he just had, Cloud already has an answer to his confusion.

“I want something with Chicken for lunch.” Biglang sabi ng Marquess pagkatapos ng mahabang katahimikan.

“Mmm…” was his reply but he’s already preparing in his mind.

He had been researching about spices that can add extreme flavor but won’t endanger anyone’s health. This is what I’m talking about — getting out of my way to please this adorable son of a bitch.

“Are we there yet?” Tanong ng Marquess.

“We’ll arrive in three.” Sagot niya.

Cloud manoeuvred the car towards the nearest parking space. As usual, there were so many people running around and doing their business.

“We’re here.” Anunsiyo niya.

Kaagad namang kumunot ang nuo ng Marquess. “Really?” He has this doubtful look on his face, “doesn’t look high end to me.”

Bago pa makasagot si Cloud, nakalabas na ang Marquess sa sasakyan. Cloud left his wallet and watch inside the car, before stepping out and following Lord Jacques.

Palinga-linga ang Marquess, siguradong naghahanap ito ng boutique, kapagkuwan ay umikot ito paharap sa kaniya. “Cloud… are you sure we’re in the right place?”

Cloud smiled and nodded. He’s staring at the furrowed eyebrows of the Marquess. His doubtful expression and confused face were so amusing to see.

“Are you sure?” Ulit nito.

Tumango siya. “Ito ang Divisoria.”

The Marquess looked around again and before his furrowed eyebrows deepened. Lord Jacques looked at him again. “You’re not fucking playing me?”

Umiling siya. “Nope.” Iminuwestra niya ang kamay sa unahan nito. “After you, my lord.”

The Marquess scowled before walking. Kaagad naman siyang sumunod sa Marquess habang pinapakiramdaman at pinagmamasdan ang paligid nila. Divisoria was really not known as the safest place to shop, so he has to keep an eye on the Marquess since he’s a walking temptation.

Of course he’s a walking temptation, he has a sexy body after all.

Cloud face palmed hearing the voice behind the back of his mind. What he meant was walking temptation to thieves!

But, he really is sexy.

Cloud shook his head. Who would have thought that his definition of sexy will change? Before, for him, sexy was soft skin, soft body, slim waist, big booty and breast.

But now, for him, sexy has a name. And that’s Marquess Jacques Sotelo.

Who would have thought that a time would come that he, Cloud Sebastian Beaumont, will find a six pack abs sexy?

Napailing siya ulit saka mabilis na sinundan ang Marquess na medyo malayo na sa kaniya. While tailing behind the Marquess, he saw three men following their every movement.

Lord Knight’s men.

Lihim na napangiti si Cloud. His crazy boss really cares, he’s just really weird most of the time.

Nang makalapit siya sa Marquess, may sinusuri itong damit. He has this stupefy, horrified and doubtful expression on his face as he check the shirt.

It was a Gucci shirt. Well, a fake one.

Bumaling sa kaniya ang Marquess habang hawak nito ang damit. Gulong-gulo ang mukha nito at pigil niya ang matawa.

“Cloud,” the Marquess actually leaned in to him, making him smell The Marquess’ sandalwood scent, then The Marquess whispered on his ear, his hot breath fanning his earlobe. “It’s fake.”

Cloud blinked in daze as The Marquess pull away. Cloud has to clear his throat — five times— to come back to his senses and to control the raging fire that The Marquess unknowingly stirred inside him.

Cloud cleared his throat for the sixth time. “Well…” good thing his voice was not quivering for fuck sake, “I think that’s what they called Class A.”

Hearing that, the Marquess started checking every ‘branded’ clothes, bags and shoes. Patagal ng patagal, padilim naman ng padilim ang mukha nito. Sa sobrang galit siguro na nararamdaman nito, hindi nito napansin na may dumaang mandurukot sa likuran nito at kinuha ang pitaka sa bulsa nito.

Cloud didn’t move. His lord’s men would take care of it.

Kalmado lang si Cloud na nagmamasid sa Marquess na sinusuri pa rin ang nga panindan, at nang tumigil ito sa ginagawa saka humarap sa kaniya, narinig niya ang ‘uh-oh’ isip niya.

The Marquess was fuming mad, but he didn’t make a scene. He just walked back to where they came from, silently, well, it was only silent until they reached the parking lot.

A string of profanities flew out from The Marquess’ mouth, it’s like Cloud was hearing a machine gun, but instead of bullets coming out, he hears cusses.

Humilig si Cloud sa hood ng sasakyan at balak na hintayin itong kumalma pero bigla nalang siyang inatake ng Marquess.

Lord Jacques was kicking and punching him, of course, he blocked and evaded them all. He didn’t fight back though. He knew The Marquess was fuming mad for falling into his boss’ prank, so he just let him.

“Fuck you!” The Marquess shouted at him while still throwing punches and kicks aimed at him. “You knew all along! You fucking knew they’re fakes! You fucking knew but you still brought me here! You fucking knew, you son of a bitch! Fuck you and your boss!”

Another set of strings of cusses flew from The Marquess mouth while he attacked with his strong fist and flying kicks.

All Cloud did was block and evade. He didn’t attack. Hinayaan lang niya itong ilabas ang galit nito kahit pinagtitinginan na sila ng mga tao na malapit sa kanila. All the cusses were now aimed at him, but Cloud doesn’t really give a fuck.

Cloud just let The Marquess do whatever he wanted until the latter finally stopped.

“You okay now?” Hinihingal na tanong ni Cloud sa Marquess. His arms and legs felt so numb for blocking The Marquess’ attacks.

“Fuck no!” Singhal nito sa kaniya saka bigla nalang nitong ipinasok sa bulsa ng pantalon niya ang kamay nito para kunin ang susi ng sasakyan, pagkatapos ay sumakay ito sa kotse niya at iniwan siya sa parking lot.

Napailing nalang si Cloud habang tinitingnan ang papalayo niyang sasakyan.

So that’s a male bitch fit. So intense.

Fifteen minutes later, Cloud was still in the parking lot. Nag-iisip siya kung anong gagawin. Iniwan niya sa sasakyan ang wallet niya, tanging cellphone lang niya ang dala niya.

Should I call my lord? Nah. Baka ma-isturbo niya ito sa trabaho. That’s the last thing he wants. Ang pinaka-magandang gawin sa sitwasyon niya ay mag-taxi nalang at magpahatid sa café ni Lady SM, at manghiram nalang siya doon ng pamasahe.

Yep. Good plan.

So Cloud left the parking lot to look for a vacant taxi.

Five minutes later, he’s still looking.

“Fuck…” he cussed under his breath and was about to move from where he was standing when a very familiar car stopped in front of him.

Cloud frowned, until the window on the driver’s seat rolled down, showing the Marquess.

“Hop in.” Anang Marquess sa walang emosyong boses.

Walang imik na sumakay sa passenger seat si Cloud habang pigil ang ngiti. Nang makapag-seat belt siya, saka lang pinausad ng Marquess ang sasakyan.

Hanggang sa makabalik sila sa BV, walang umimik sa kanilang dalawa. Ayaw ni Cloud na magsalita, baka biglang sumabog na naman sa galit ang Marquess. Partly, he’s at fault for not telling The Marquess what Divisoria really was. Cloud knew how bad The Marquess temper was, he’s not gonna risk it.

When the Marquess parked the car in the garage, Cloud immediately steps out without saying anything and went inside the house. He doesn’t want another ‘mitch’ fit. His arms and legs were still numb.

“Cloud!” Tawag ng Marquess sa pangalan niya na hinabol pala siya. “Hey, wait up!”

Tumigil siya sa paglalakad saka humarap dito. “Yeah?”

The Marquess looked at his face like he’s looking for something before asking. “You mad?”

Lord Jacques’ question stunned him. That was unexpected. Dahil sa pagkabigla, hindi kaagad siya nakasagot at mukhang binigyan ng kahuluhan ng Marquess ang katahimikan niya.

Knowing Lord Jacques’ temper, Cloud knew he’s gonna be cussed at again for not answering right away, but to his shocked, the opposite happened.

“Sorry for leaving you in the parking lot.” The Marques said, loud and clear.

Shock was an understatement.

Cloud cleared his throat to pull himself together after being stupefied. “You came back though…”

Tumango ang Marquess. “I’m not that heartless.” Paused. “So, ahm,” paused. “Forgive me?”

Namulsa si Cloud saka tumango. “Sure.”

“You sure?” Paninigurado ng Marquess.

Tumango siya ulit. “Leaving me there is unforgivable, but I’m a nice guy, so,” he winked at Lord Jacques, “you’re forgiven.”

And the Marquess responded by reaching the throw pillow in the sofa and throwing it at him. “Don’t wink at me you bastard!”

Mahinang natawa lang si Cloud na nasalo ang binatong throw pillow ng Marquess. “Its my eyes, my lord, I can do anything I want with it.” He has a lopsided grin on his lips, “Do you want another wink?”

“Fuck you!” Yep, the Marquess was back at being angry again.

Cloud just chuckled. “Yeah, yeah. Be thankful you looked cute while asking for forgiveness.”

The Marquess throws another throw pillow at him. “I’m a man! I’m not cute!”

Amusement was dancing in Cloud’s eyes as he looked at the Marquess while hugging the two throw pillows in his arms. “Nagsasabi lang ako ng totoo. You were cute while saying sorry as well.”

And the Marquess just combusted in anger and was now walking towards him to attack. “You motherfucking asshole—”

“Come here, come closer,” Cloud said in a challenging tone before throwing the pillows back to the sofa and stared intently at Lord Jacques, “so I can kiss that dirty mouth of yours clean.”

Lord Jacques froze on his track. “You wouldn’t dare…”

Cloud smirked. “Wanna try?” He asked, teasingly. “Come closer and I’ll kiss you senseless.”

The Marquess didn’t move. He was just looking at him angrily, like he’s about to ripped his head off.

Cloud let out a sexy chuckle. “Come over here … just one kiss. I promise, I’m delicious.”

Hindi napigilan ni Cloud ang matawa ng binato ulit siya ng Marquess ng throw pillow saka nag walk out ito.

Teasing The Marquess was really fun. But it was not an empty teasing. Talagang hahalikan niya ang Marquess kung lumapit ito sa kaniya para atakehin siya.

Napailing nalang si Cloud sa sarili. His flirty attitude was now showing, he knew he can’t stop whatever this was anymore — no, he doesn’t want to stop.

Whatever this is, he’s gonna run with it.

Come what fucking may.

Naiiling na nangingiti na ibinalik ni Cloud ang throw pillow na ibinato sa kaniya ni Lord Jacques sa sofa saka nagtungo sa kusina.

Cloud focuses himself on creating a dish that The Marquess could taste. He used different herbs, spices and seasonings that could enhance the flavours tenfold.

More than an hour later, he was finally finished with ‘Pita Pinwheel’. It’s a homemade pita bread roll with herbed cream cheese, sliced ham, sliced bacon, sliced chicken breast and shredded cheese as filling. Addition to the ingredients were the herbs, spices and seasonings he used to enhance the flavour.

Cloud was in the middle of cutting the Pita Pinwheel into bite-size pieces when his phone rang. Tiningnan niya muna kung sino ang tumatawag bago sinagot ’yon.

It’s the Marquess.

He answered the call and put it on loud speaker.

“Cloud—”

“Hey, babe.” Cloud immediately teases the Marquess who instantly became silent.

After a few seconds, Lord Jacques finally spoke again with anger. “One flirty word and I will really kick your fucking ass!”

Mahina siyang natawa. “Ba’t ka napatawag?”

“Let’s go shopping with milady and Dimitri.”

Tumaas ang dalawang kilay niya. “Sa Divisoria ulit?”

“Wanna die, asshole?!”

Cloud let out a soft laugh. “I’m just asking. Saan nga?”

“Hong Kong.” Sagot nito na ikinaawang ng bibig niya. “Come to milady’s café. Now.”

The line died before Cloud could utter his response.

So bossy.

Cloud shook his head before putting the Pita Pinwheel he made in a clear plastic box, ready for take out. Then he change into a more comfortable clothes before heading out to Lady SM’s café.

Hong Kong, huh?

This better be good.

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 8

“SO TIRED…” Jacques groaned while he stretched his arms after being in a plane for more than an hour. Nakatulog siya bago pa umalis ang pribadong eroplanong sinasakyan, kagigising lang niya at nasa himpapawid pa rin sila.

While stretching, his head turned to face the person sitting next to him — Cloud — who’s staring at him with a disapproving glint in his eyes.

Jacques frowned. “What?”

Cloud answered him in a low voice that only they could hear. “Alam kong hindi ka nakakaramdam ng pagod. It’s me, Lord Jacques. No need to pretend.”

Dahan-dahang bumaba ang mga braso niyang inuunat habang nakatingin pa rin kay Cloud.

That’s right. He’s with Cloud. He knows his condition. No need to pretend. But pretending was his second nature. It’s normal for him to say that he’s tired even though he couldn’t really feel it because he was trained to say it to look like a normal person.

“I was trained to act normal.” Yon nalang ang nasabi niya habang nakatingin pa rin kay Cloud.

For some reason, he likes looking at Cloud, especially his light brown eyes. Maybe because when Cloud looks at him, there’s no pity in his eyes even after knowing his condition. Cloud looks at him like how a normal person would look to another normal person. Even his best friend, Kaius, looks at him with pity sometimes.

“You are normal, Lord Jacques.” Cloud spoke with firmness. “You don’t need to say ‘you’re tired’ to be normal. Being insensitive to pain doesn’t make you less of a normal person.”

Jacques couldn’t stop the sad smile that slowly crept into his lips. “But they say pain is what makes us human…”

Cloud scoffed at his remark. “There are a lot of things that makes us human.” Then Cloud reached out to his messy hair and smoothened it like it’s a normal thing to do. “What I was trying to say is that, when you’re with me, just be yourself. No need to pretend. I know how tiresome it is.”

And Jacques found himself nodding and not disagreeing and he doesn’t know why. Was it the genuine emotion in Cloud’s eyes? Was it the warmth of his hand that was smoothing his messy hair? Or was it his deep baritone but tender voice?

Cloud smiled at him before dropping his hand that was smoothing his hair.

Jacques couldn’t stop the half-scoff and half-chuckle that came out from his mouth, earning a frown from Cloud.

“What’s that?” Cloud inquired.

Jacques glared at Cloud, “you’re an asshole.”

Now, Cloud’s face was full of confusion. “Huh?”

“You say nice things like now, but hours ago, you’re talking bullshit.” Now he’s pissed again, remember what happened in the living room few hours ago.

Cloud’s confused face slowly disappeared and was replaced with amusement. “Oh … you’re talking about me kissing your mouth clean?” Mahina itong natawa, parang nasisiyahan pa ito sa iritado niyang mukha. “I still want to kiss your mouth clean.” Cloud wiggled his eyebrow at him, “wanna try?”

Pinakita niya rito ang kamao. “Try and I’ll hit you.”

Mahinang tumawa lang ang katabi. “Relax … I’m not gonna kiss you without your permission.”

Jacques scowled, wanting to beat the man beside him for saying bullshit things. “And you think I’ll give it to you? Dream on, asshole.”

Cloud just blatantly stared at his lips, Cloud’s index finger was softly caressing the bottom of his own lips seductively, while staring at his.

“I’ll make you want it.” Cloud said with confidence that made him scoffed.

Jacques smirked. “I wanna see you try.”

Cloud matched the smirk on his lips. “Oh, I will.”

Jacques became irritated again. “Why are doing this anyway? To piss me off? To make fun of me? You need something to laugh at? You’re bored? What is it? Because I don’t understand. I know for a fact that you’re not gay. I mean, you are known in Spain as a philandering bastard. Leaving countless broken hearted women, so I’m confused as to why you’re doing this.”

“I don’t know too.” Cloud’s answer came as a whisper, like he himself doesn’t really know the answer. “I just wanna kiss you.”

“Are you a bi?” That’s the only explanation Jacques got.

“Maybe…”

Jacques looked at Cloud disapprovingly. “Maybe? Really? So, what, you’re still unsure and experimenting and I happen to be the lab rat?” Jacques was getting pissed in every passing second. “I don’t want to lose a good friend, Cloud, so please, experiment on someone else.”

Ilang segundong natahimik ang katabi bago nagsalita. “I can’t.”

He snorted and spoke in sarcasm. “Why? Because I’m fun to experiment at?”

“No.” Then Cloud looked at him, “it’s because you’re the object of my affection.”

Jacques froze at what he heard. Is he joking? Must be.

“This is my first time feeling this way towards a man.” Cloud said in a soft voice, like he was afraid of Jacques’ judgement. “And I’m confused. I wanna keep a lid on it, but sometimes I can’t stop myself, hence the flirting. I know I’m making you uncomfortable, I wanna stop too, but I don’t think I can anymore — no, more like I don’t want to stop. It’s exhausting because the more I try to stop it, the more it comes out.”

Nakatingin lang si Jacques kay Cloud. Iniisip niya kung anong isasagot niya sa mga sinabi nito. Whatever it was, he should be honest.

“I don’t feel the same way.” Jacques said honestly. He has to clear things between them. “I like you as a friend, Cloud.”

“Ouch.” Cloud said playfully before chuckling.

“I’m serious.” Jacques looked at Cloud seriously. “You’re a good friend to me, Cloud, and I don’t want to lose a good friend.”

“Mmm…” Cloud nodded with his chin before looking at him like he was reading the emotion in his face. “Do you feel … disgusted over what I just said?”

Jacques stayed silent because he felt disturbed by the fact that he didn’t feel any disgust or discomfort at what Cloud said, he was actually shocked that someone would like him knowing his attitude and bad temper.

Jacques know for a fact that he’s an unlikable man and so hard to deal with.

Cloud took Jacques’ silence as a no — because Cloud believes that if Lord Jacques was disgusted, he would be cursing him to no end by now— and the Cloud felt relieved, “thanks for not telling me to stop liking you.”

Jacques’ face contorted in annoyance. “Why would I? It’s your feelings. I don’t have control over them.”

Cloud has a lopsided grin on his face as the bastard looked at him, his eyes were back to being irritatingly charming. “So … does that mean I’m allowed to flirt with you?”

Jacques throws a sharp glare at Cloud. “Will you even stop if I told you to?”

Cloud grinned. “Probably not. I’m a straightforward kind of guy. I don’t believe in hiding my feelings, I’m too old for that shit. I was just confused, still am actually, that’s why I was hiding it.”

Bumuga ng marahas na hininga si Jacques saka napailing. Confuse, huh? “Whatever. Flirt as much as you like. It’s not like something will change. You’re a friend and that’s it. Don’t get your hopes up.”

“Careful, you might eat your words.”

“Too much confidence will fucking kill you.” Jacques said while sending sharp glare at Cloud. “But I’m warning you asshole, if you flirt with me, be ready for a fucking beating. You can keep your feelings, but I will never accept them.”

Tumawa lang si Cloud saka tumingin sa labas ng bintana ng eroplano. Si Jacques naman ay napatitig sa katabi.

He should feel uncomfortable around Cloud. The man just confessed that he likes him for fuck’s sake! He should feel discomfort, but to his surprise, he doesn’t feel that way. On the contrary, he feels more comfortable with him after his confession, because now, he understood where Cloud was coming from, why he acts the way he acts around him.

But Jacques was pretty sure that if Cloud flirts with him again, he will hit the bastard.

Though he’s surprise that a womanizer like Cloud would like a man. Hindi niya personal na kakilala si Cloud noon, pero naririnig na niya ang pangalan nito. Two of his cousins were broken hearted because of this man.

A smug smirk made its way to Jacques’ lips. He can already imagine the shock on his cousins’ faces if they find out that the elusive Cloud Sebastian Beaumont likes him — a man.

Staring at the man up close with the intent of examining his face, it’s no wonder women fell for Cloud. Cloud was a very handsome guy, the kind of handsomeness that could be considered rugged but charming. He has a sexy profile and graceful demeanour when he moves.

No wonder he’s known as a philandering bastard. Cloud has the face, profile and aura to back it up.

“Don’t stare at me for too long, Lord Jacques,” Cloud suddenly spoke before turning to face him with a teasing small grin on his lips, “I might get my hopes up.”

“Fucking asshole.” Jacques tsked.

Cloud let out a low deep chuckle. “You really have a filthy mouth — hmm, speaking of mouth,” kinuha nito ang paper bag na dala-dala nito mula pa kanina at may inilabas doon. “Here you go.”

Inilapag ni Cloud sa ibabaw ng hita niya ang isang transparent plastic container. May laman iyong pagkain na parang naka-rolyo.

“What’s this?” Nagtatakang tanong niya kay Cloud.

“It’s called Pita Pinwheel.” Cloud opened the plastic container for him and for some reason, Jacques can imagine the scent that must be coming out from the food. It looks delicious. It’s well made.

Unang tingin palang, alam na niyang pinaghirapan ni Cloud ang paggawa sa pagkain na nasa harapan niya ngayon at gustong-gusto niyang matikman ’yon.

Cloud’s effort made him feel warmth that he couldn’t explain. “It looks fucking good.”

“Tastes good too.” May pagmamalaking sabi ni Cloud.

Jacques gave Cloud a deadpan look. “Too much confidence can fucking kill you, motherfucker.”

Cloud just chuckled and confidently shrugged.

Ibinalik ni Jacques ang tingin sa pagkaing nasa plastic container saka kumuha siya ng isang slice. Tiningnan muna niya iyon ng ilang segundo bago ipinasok sa bibig niya ng buo.

Cloud was looking at him expectantly.

“Well?” Cloud inquired, hopeful. “How is it? Did you taste anything?”

Umiling siya. He would never confess to Cloud that he could taste something because of his brain’s psychological response.

“Nothing?” Ulit na tanong ni Cloud.

Umiling ulit siya. It tastes the same as Cloud’s other cooking, no flavour, just a good taste that he can’t explain, so Jacques knew that it’s his brain again. The Psychological response.

Cloud looks so disappointed. “Fuck. Akala ko may malalasahan ka na. I put a lot of spices, herbs and seasonings.”

Nagkibit-balikat lang si Jacques at tahimik na kumain hanggang sa naubos niya ang laman ng plastic box. Then he handed the empty box to Cloud who silently accepted it and put it back on the paper bag.

“Thanks.” Aniya.

When Cloud who was deep in thought didn’t respond, Jacques closed his eyes again to rest. It’s gonna be another hour before they reach their destination.

Jacques fell asleep quicker than he thought he would and every time his sleeps deepens, his head would wobble. At sa tuwing bumabagsak ang ulo niya sa balikat niya, nagigising siya ng ilang segundo at matutulog na naman, pagkatapos ay mauulit na naman ang nangyari.

And looks like the man beside him has had enough of his wobbling head.

Jacques felt a hand on the other side of his head guiding him to lean on the shoulder of the man sitting next to him. Jacques mind was half-awake and half-asleep.

He knew that the owner of the hand and shoulder were Cloud, he could feel his familiar warmth because he had felt that before when they slept on the same bed, twice. In this close proximity, if Jacques could smell, he’s pretty sure he could smell Cloud’s scent … but he lacked sense of smell.

The feeling of disappointment washed through him, making him confuse.

But before he could figure out the reason of his disappointment, his brain was already shutting down and the next thing he knew, he was swallowed by darkness and was pulled to oblivion.

CLOUD KNEW THAT Lord Jacques loves branded clothes and expensive things, but shopping with him together with Lady SM and Dimitri in Hong Kong, gives shopping a whole new meaning. It’s like the Marquess wants to buy the whole store. Lahat yata ng mga high-end na boutique napuntahan na nila, at wala silang nilabasang boutique na wala silang dala — siya lang pala.

Ginawa lang naman siyang taga-bitbit ng Marquess na ikinailing nalang niya,. Hindi naman ’yon mabigat kaya hinayaan na niya.

Of course, the Marquess was back to being bossy again. As if that’ll ever change. But to Cloud’s surprise, even he likes that side of him— when the Marquess acts like a pampered son of a bitch.

Napailing nalang ulit si Cloud habang tinitingnan ang mga paper bag na bitbit niya. Ang daming pinamili ng Marquess. Hindi niya alam kung nagpa-panic buying ’to ng mga damit. The Marquess keeps saying ‘it’s cheap’ while he shops.

Cloud wasn’t new to lavish lifestyle, but he’s not an extravagant spender like the Marquess.

Well, he’s a Marquess after all.

“Is this okay?” Tanong sa kaniya ng Marquess habang may pinapakita ito sa kaniyang polo. Sa pagkakataong ’yon, nasa Armani store sila.

Cloud doesn’t know why the Marquess was asking but he just nodded. “Looks cool.”

Tumango ito saka isinama iyon sa bibilhin nito.

“How about this?” The Marquess showed him a polo shirt this time.

“It’s good.”

Tumango ang Marquess saka isinama rin iyon sa bibilhin nito.

Hinayaan niya lang itong mamili. Lady SM and Dimitri did the same. They just let the Marquess shop to his heart content until he was satisfied.

Overall, it was a good day, even his crazy boss followed them to Hong Kong. Then his boss and the Marquess started arguing about nonsense things again. It was supposed to be a good day for everyone, but their day was ruined by one bullet — and that bullet hit Lady SM.

Everything went chaotic after that.

At dahil kilala ni Cloud ang boss niya, hindi siya humarang sa daraanan nito. Hindi niya ito kinausap at hinayaan lang ito sa nararamdaman nito. Basta siniguro niyang kung kailangan nito ng kahit na ano, naka-suporta at nasa tabi lang siya nito.

And when he spoke to his boss for the first time after the incident and his boss threatened and blamed him for what happened to Lady SM, Cloud accepted it. His boss was still livid even after punishing the people who were responsible for what happened to Lady SM.

Cloud understood his boss’ anger.

Though after what happened, Cloud feels like he’s taking care of two hard headed people.

His boss who couldn’t visit Lady SM inside the infirmary and Lord Jacques who keeps on blaming himself for what happened. Good thing Dimitri was there, helping him take care of Lady SM while he takes care of the two bull headed nobles.

“My Lord, you should eat.” Maingat na inilapag ni Cloud ang niluto niyang pagkain para sa boss niya. His boss had been cooped up inside his office in Hong Kong Orgánosi HQ since last night. “Hindi magugustuhan ni Lady SM kapag nangayayat ka. Hindi mo na nga siya binibisita, hindi ka pa kumakain, ano nalang ang sasabihin niya?” Cloud has to manipulate his boss a little. “Binisita ko si Lady SM kanina. Sabi ni Dimitri nagising na raw si Lady SM pero nakatulog ulit. See? She’s doing okay now. Just a couple more days and Lady SM will be back to normal.”

His boss sighed. “I’m scared, Cloud…”

“I know, my lord. But Lady SM is okay now—”

“About my father.”

Natigilan si Cloud saka nagsalita. “Dahil ba siguradong malalaman niya ang tungkol kay Lady SM dahil sa nangyari ngayon?”

Tumango ang kaharap. “He will break me and SM apart. I’m sure of that. Then he will punish me,” his boss looked at him, “and you … I’m sorry, Cloud, for always dragging you to my mess.”

Cloud smiled at his boss. “My lord, I have always been with you since I was fourteen and it’s always been an honour for me to serve you and support you. Don’t think about anything, my lord, focus on Lady SM—”

“— he’ll punish you, Cloud.”

“I know.” His smile remains. “For my lord’s happiness, I can accept any punishment.”

Finally, the Count smiled. “I honestly don’t know what I’ll do without my one hell of a butler.”

Mahinang natawa si Cloud. “I’m pretty sure you’ll die of hunger, my lord, and your house will be a fucking mess.”

Count Knight chuckled before his face went serious. “I’m sorry for blaming you last night, Cloud. I was just so mad, I wasn’t thinking right.”

Cloud smiled. “Eat and I’ll forgive you.”

Naiiling na tumawa ang boss niya. “The Marquess’ bossiness is rubbing off on you. Not a good sign, Cloud.”

Ngumiti lang siya saka bahagyang yumukod dito. “I’ll leave you to your meal, my lord. Please finish everything, or you’ll make Lady SM worry.”

“Yeah, yeah.” His boss said dismissively making him chuckled before leaving.

Nang makalabas siya sa opisina ng boss niya, tinungo niya ang elevator na maghahatid sa kaniya pataas habang dala-dala ang isa pang paper bag na may lamang pagkain. He made food for his lord, Dimitri and of course, for The Marquess.

Like every Orgánosi Headquarters, it’s always situated below Racini’s Hotel.

Nang tumigil ang elevator sa ground floor, pinindot niya ulit ang boton at nagpahatid siya sa ika-tatlumpu’t-siyam na palapag.

When the elevator stopped and popped open, Cloud stepped out and walked towards room 39-E.

He used his key card to get in and immediately saw The Marquess on the living room of the hotel room, looking at nothing.

Inilapag niya ang paper bag na dala sa round table. “Here’s your lunch.”

“I hate take out.”

“It’s not a take out.” Sabi niya saka inilabas ang pagkain na nasa plastic container. “I used the kitchen in the Hotel to cook this for you.”

Lihim na napangiti si Cloud ng makitang kaagad na naging interesadong kumain ang Marquess. He doesn’t know why Lord Jacques likes his cooking even though he couldn’t taste anything, but he’s not complaining. It actually feels nice — he felt appreciated.

Habang kumakain ang Marquess, pumasok siya sa kuwarto para sana maligo ng makita niya ang maraming damit sa ibabaw ng kama. Kasama ang mga ’yon sa pinamili ng Marquess.

Cloud shook his head before folding all the clothes. Ihiniwalay lang niya ang damit na pinabili niya sa Marquess kahapon na siyang susuotin niya ngayon.

Pagkatapos niyang tupiin lahat ng damit na nagkalat sa kama, saka lang siya naligo.

Twenty minutes later, he walked out of the room, shirtless, while drying his wet hair with a towel.

“How’s the food?” Tanong niya sa Marquess habang naglalakad siya patungo sa salas.

Nang hindi sumagot ang Marquess, tinigil niya ang pagtuyo niya sa buhok para humarap dito.

And he caught the Marquess looking at his body — like he was examining it.

Cloud sent a flirty smile to the Marquess who immediately scowled and become irritated.

Cloud shook his head and decided not to tease the Marquess any further. He’s still actually confused with all this, but the difference now, he’s not stopping himself anymore. Instead of questioning everything he does or feel for the Marquess, he just let it go and just went with the flow.

He believes that at the end of this flow, he’ll have his answers.

For now, he doesn’t want to overthink. He’s a calm and levelheaded individual before this started, he has to stay that way to figure this all out.

If what he’s feeling now would really lead him to that path, then come what may.

Accepting himself was far more important than anything. Because he believes that, before others could accept him for who he was becoming, he must accept himself first.

Syempre, nagsisinungaling siya kung sasabihin niyang hindi siya natatakot. He’s fucking scared to death because of his sudden change of sexual preference, but he’s far more scared of being a stranger to his own emotion and body.

To avoid that, he has to understand and accept the changes in him, however scary and shocking it may be.

“Cloud, pass me that water bottle.” His thoughts were cut off hearing the Marquess bossy voice.

Nilingon ni Cloud ang water bottle na nasa gilid lang ng round table. The Marquess just had to lean forward, put some little effort and reached for it, but the Marquess was a son of a bitch so Cloud was sure that he’s not gonna do it.

Nameywang na humarap siya sa Marquess. “Lord Jacques, I like you and I wanna spoil you so fucking bad, but, I have my limit.” Tinuro niya ang water bottle, “go get it yourself. You’re not even gonna stand up, you’re just gonna lean forward.”

The Marquess grumbled in annoyance before reaching for the water bottle.

The corner of Cloud’s lips quirked up. “That’s my good boy.”

Kaagad na pinakita sa kaniya ng Marquess ang gitnang daliri nito bago uminom ng tubig.

“By the way,” Cloud hanged the towel on his left shoulder, “bakit nakakalat sa kama ’yong mga damit na pinamili mo?”

The Marquess made a confused look. “I already packed the clothes I bought and I had them delivered to my plane.”

Now, Cloud was the one confused. “Kung ganun, kanino ang mga damit na ’yon? As far as I know, I only have two clothes in there and then this one.” Aniya sabay turo sa jeans na suot.

“Those are all your clothes.” Anang Marquess na tumayo mula sa pagkakaupo sa sofa.

Cloud was still confused as fuck as his eyes followed The Marquess who was now walking towards the room. Nang makabalik ang Marquess sa salas pagkalipas ng ilang segundo, dala-dala na nito ang mga bagong damit na tinupi niya at inilapag nito iyon sa gilid ng mahabang sofa.

“Here. All yours.”

Cloud has the ’ what the fuck are you talking about’ expression on his face. “Those are not mine. I didn’t bought them.”

“I did.” Anang Marquess na ngayon ay naglalakad na pabalik sa kuwarto. “I bought them all for you so put a fucking shirt on.” Then The Marquess closed the door to the room, leaving him in the living room, flabbergasted.

Seconds later, a goofy smile crept into Cloud’s lips, his eyes followed towards the door which was quickly shut by the Marquess the moment he entered.

“… and you said not to get my hopes up,” Cloud chuckled then shook his head, “you’re being unfair, my lord.”

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 9

FOR THE NEXT two days, Jacques stayed with Lady SM in the infirmary. The motherfucking Count haven’t visited milady yet, not even once. Sila lang ni Dimitri ang nagsasalitan sa pagbabantay dahil masyado ring abala si Cloud. He’s always running errands for the Count these past few days, Jacques knew Cloud was very busy, but Cloud still manages to cook for him.

“May I ask you something, Lord Jacques?” It was Dimitri. They’re inside the infirmary at the moment, waiting for Lady SM to be conscious again.

“What is it?” Sagot niya habang nakahilig sa likod ng pang-isahang sofa na naroon sa infirmary na siyang kinauupuan niya.

“Are you and Cloud friends before you became Miss SM’s butler?” Tanong ni Dimitri na puno ng kuryusidad ang boses.

Umiling si Jacques. “I know of him, but I don’t know him. Same with Cloud.”

Dimitri looked at him like he was trying to unravel something. “Then why are you two close?” There was a frown on Dimitri’s voice. “Sorry for prying, it’s just that, I know Cloud since he was 16 and ever since then, the only person who he allows to boss him around is The Count. And the only person he really genuinely cares about is The Count. But these past few days, he’d been taking really good care of you, even cooking for you when I know for a fact that he’s very busy. That’s why I’m curious. Cloud’s not like that to other people than The Count.”

Hindi alam ni Jacques ang isasagot sa tanong ni Dimitri. What’s he supposed to answer anyway? That Cloud likes him even though he’s a man? That that motherfucking asshole has been flirting with him?

Jacques shudders at the thought. Dimitri would definitely passed out in shock if he ever finds out.

And it’s not for him to tell anyways. He doesn’t have the right to tell others about Cloud’s sexual preference. That’s Cloud’s right alone.

So Jacques lied. “We live in the same house, we got pretty close.”

“Hmm-mm.” Was all Dimitri said, clearly not convinced.

Well, even Jacques’ was not convince. But it’s not like he could tell Dimitri the truth.

Jacques pulled his cellphone from his front pocket to pass the time and also to make himself looked busy and avoid Dimitri’s inquisitive eyes. Ayaw niyang makipag-usap kay Dimitri. He’s too intimidating, especially how he looks at him like he’s trying to unravel something that he was hiding.

Jacques was tensed, but then his posture slowly relaxed when his phone beeped and he received a message from Cloud.

From: Nube

How’s Lady SM?

Jacques replied. ’ Still unconscious.’

From: Nube

How about my babe? You doing okay?

Jacques frowned at the word ’ babe ’. Is he asking me? Was Cloud referring to him?

Jacques replied quickly.

‘If the babe you’re referring is me — here’s for you 🖕🏻 .’

From Nube:

‘LOL. Always hot tempered. Is my babe sleeping well these past few days? I’m not around much and you’re making this one hell of a butler worry.’

Iritadong napailing si Jacques. Cloud won’t really stop this ’ babe ’ thing. Jacques knew that Cloud was flirting with him again. The fucking guts of this man!

Binasa ulit ni Jacques ang huling mensahe ni Cloud. It’s true though, Cloud has not been around much. Hindi niya alam kung anong ginagawa nito, ang alam lang niya ay sinusunod lang nito ang utos ng baliw nitong boss.

The last time he spoke to Cloud for more than a minute was when he gave Cloud the clothes he bought for him. After that, Cloud was always busy running errands for that motherfucking Count and only sees him when he’s handing him his meals.

Jacques replied to Cloud’s message.

‘When are you gonna stop being busy, asshole?’

Jacques hit send. Nasisiguro niyang pagod ito. Unlike him, Cloud can feel exhaustion.

From: Nube

Miss me? 😉

Jacques rolled his eyes in irritation before replying.

‘Can you stop flirting even for just one fucking second and fucking answer me?!’

From: Nube

‘One second. Done. Okay, let’s go back to me flirting with you — did you miss me, hmm?’

Jacques scowled. The audacity of this man! It’s beyond him! So shameless!

Jacques replied. ’ Fuck you 🖕🏻.’

From: Nube

’LOL. I’m at the hotel room. I’ll rest for a bit.

Jacques frowned while quickly typing a reply. ’ Which Hotel?’

Hindi na nag reply si Cloud.

Maybe he’s upstairs.

With that thought, Jacques got up quickly. He doesn’t know what came over him. Basta nagpaalam siya kay Dimitri na may gagawin at kaagad na lumabas ng infirmary. He was already in the elevator going up to the 39th floor when he realized what he just did.

Why was he in a hurry to see that motherfucking asshole anyway?

Maybe because you haven’t seen him fore more than a minute for the last two days? Anang boses sa likod ng isip niya na mas lalong ikinakunot ng nuo niya.

So ? Still doesn’t explain why he’s in a hurry.

Jacques discarded the confusing thought and just went to their hotel room. Nang makapasok siya sa kuwarto, kaagad niyang hinanap si Cloud. He found him on the couch, sleeping, still with his dirty shoes on while holding his phone over his chest.

Bakas ang pagod sa mukha ni Cloud habang natutulog. Yes, Jacques couldn’t feel exhaustion but he can tell when someone’s tired. Lumaki siyang pinag-aaralan ang mga bagay na hindi niya nararamdaman para magaya niya para maging normal siya sa ibang tao.

His mother hates his abnormal body and she would do anything to make him act normal.

Bumuntong-hininga si Jacques bago maingat na inalis ang sapatos na suot ni Cloud. Kapagkuwan ay ang cellphone naman na hawak nito ang sunod niyang inaalis at inilapag iyon sa center table. Then he flopped himself on the floor, beside the couch where Cloud was sleeping, then he started playing games in his phone to pass the time.

Suddenly, there was a movement behind him — pretty sure it was Cloud — and then that someone behind him just buried his face on his neck, making him froze.

“Hmm … you really smell so fucking good, Marquess.” Cloud whispered in a low deep voice.

Jacques immediately shove Cloud’s face away from his neck and then he quickly attacked the asshole.

“You motherfucking asshole!” He keeps on punching Cloud angrily who’s just smiling teasingly. “You bastard! I told you not to flirt with me, I mean you can, but not like this! You fucking asshole! Fuck you! I will really kill you! How dare you bury that motherfucking face of yours in my neck! Who the fuck give you the right you fucking jerk! Asshole… motherfucker… shameless prick…” and his cusses goes on and on for a whole minute before he stops attacking the chuckling man on the couch. “Do that again and I’ll beat you to death you motherfucker!”

“Ah,” Cloud let out a contented breath, “that beating was worth it.”

Jacques sent sharp glares at Cloud who’s just looking at him with amusement in his eyes.

“You’re a fucking guy!” Jacques shouted at Cloud with so much anger and frustration.

Cloud just shrugged nonchalantly. “Yeah, I know.” Tiningnan nito ang sarili saka bumangon at ngayon ay nakaupo na sa couch. “What about it?”

“A guy doesn’t go smelling another guy!” Jacques was still shouting.

Cloud was chuckling, clearly not taking him seriously. “But this guy,” tinuro nito ang sarili bago siya tinuro, “likes this guy.”

Jacques glared at Cloud. The kind of glare than could kill someone, then Jacques started cursing Cloud again. “Am I a fucking joke to you?!”

That’s when Cloud lose his smile and sighed. “If I think you’re a joke, I wouldn’t be this serious.” Cloud pushed himself to stand up and looked at him — his eyes held seriousness in their depths, “It’s not my hobby to fool around with men, Lord Jacques. When I told you that I wanna kiss you senseless and make you breathless, I’m fucking serious.” Pagkasabi nito niyon ay pinulot nito ang cellphone na nasa ibabaw ng round table at nag lakad ito papasok sa kuwarto.

Naiwan namang nakatulala sa gulat si Jacques. He keeps asking himself what Cloud sees in him that he’s fucking serious about him? Cloud’s eyes doesn’t lie. He was dead serious and that confuses the Marquess.

What’s so good about me that he likes me ? Even, he, himself, knew how much of a prick he was. He’s unlikable and hard to deal with. No one can stand him. His own parents doesn’t even like him sometimes, so what’s the deal with Cloud liking him? That’s just absurd!

Jacques tsked and went to lie down on the couch, then he proceeded to staring at the ceiling.

He really doesn’t understand Cloud at all. Is he nuts?

What’s so likeable about me anyways ? First, I’m not a woman. Jacques knew he doesn’t have a supple and soft body. Yes, his built was smaller than Cloud, and Cloud was maybe one or two inches higher than him, but still, I’m a man . His body was of a man for fuck’s sake. He’s not soft. He doesn’t have boobs, slim waist and big butts — wait, he does have a round ass, but that’s it.

So he’s really having a hard time believing a womanizer’s words. Cloud was still confused so maybe it will not continue and he’ll be back to his old self.

Well, he can hope. He really doesn’t want to lose a good friend and Cloud’s a good friend. He doesn’t think that he could take Cloud flirting with him — well, he could always beat him up, but, even that wouldn’t stop Cloud.

Natigilan sa pag-iisip si Jacques ng marinig niyang bumukas ang pinto ng kuwarto na pinasukan ni Cloud kanina. Kapagkuwan ay nakarinig siya ng papalapit sa yabag.

When Cloud came into Jacques’ peripheral view, Jacques’ eyes followed Cloud until he sat on the floor, beside the couch, in the same place Jacques was sitting on earlier when Cloud was sleeping on the couch.

Hindi na nagulat si Jacques sa sunod na ginawa ni Cloud.

Cloud leaned in on the couch, the back of his head was resting on Jacques’ stomach.

“Move before I hit you, asshole.” Puno ng pagbabanta ang boses ni Jacques.

Cloud tilted his head to the side to look at him while Cloud’s head was still resting on Jacques’ stomach. “Let me rest for a little while, please?”

Cloud looks really tired, for some reason, Jacques couldn’t hit the son of a bitch. “Go to the bedroom and sleep.”

“Can’t sleep.” Cloud mumbled, his eyes closing.

“Cloud!” Jacques hissed at the man whose head was resting on his stomach. “Get off!”

“Push me away and I’ll leave.”

Of course, Jacques didn’t. He has a bad temper, but he could see that Cloud’s really tired. Fuck this! Why do I always end up letting this fucker do whatever he wants?! Jacques should be pushing the asshole away, but no, he didn’t. Jacques let the bastard rest the back of his head on his stomach like he’s some kind of a soft pillow!

“Cloud?”

“Hmm?”

“Fuck you.”

Cloud chuckled. “Can I at least get a kiss first, Lord Jacques?”

Jacques scowled in annoyance. “Can you stop with calling me ‘Lord’ Jacques. It’s really annoying. Jacques will do.”

Ilang minuto na walang imik si Cloud kaya akala niya nakatulog na ito pero kapagkuwan ay narinig niyang binanggit nito ang pangalan niya.

“Jacques.” Cloud spoke his name like he’s testing what it would sound like, then one of Cloud’s closed eyes opened to peek at Jacques, who didn’t realize that he had stopped breathing when Cloud called his name without honorific. “My lord, breathe.”

Jacques’ hand raised to smack Cloud’s head, but Cloud caught his hand in a tight grip. “Jacques, I’m really tired. Can you beat me up tomorrow?”

Mabilis na hinablot niya ang kamay para makawala sa hawak nito saka pinag-krus ang mga braso sa dibdib at inabala ang sarili sa pagtitig sa kisame.

Thankfully, he’s back to breathing normally.

“Fuck you, Cloud.” Jacques hissed.

Cloud chuckled, clearly unaffected. “Don’t threaten me with a good time, my lord.”

Mariing ipinikit nalang ni Jacques ang mga mata ng maramdamang parang uminit ang tainga niya sa sagot ni Cloud sa pagmumura niya rito.

This man was really a shameless fucking asshole! The audacity Cloud has to flirt with a man. It’s beyond him!

Jacques was fuming mad again. He was huffing in anger while grinding his teeth to stop himself from killing the man whose leisurely leaning on his stomach.

Yes, Jacques was still forcing himself to calm his anger down because he doesn’t want to hit Cloud for the reason that Cloud was tired. I’m trying to be understanding here, but this shameless prick is not helping—

“Thank you, Lord Jacques.”

Jacques gritted his teeth harder. Cloud’s back to calling him ‘lord’ Jacques again.

“For what?” Jacques spat the words in annoyance.

“For letting me rest and lean on you. I’m sorry for making you feel uncomfortable.” Cloud was now getting ready to lean forward and stand up, “I’ll rest in the bedroom—”

Jacques’ hand raised to hold Cloud’s forehead and then he forced Cloud’s head to lean back on his stomach. “Shut the fuck up and just fucking rest.”

Jacques was looking at the ceiling so he didn’t see the triumphant smile that crept onto Cloud’s lips as he closed his eyes and rest while making Jacques’ stomach his pillow.

FOR THE LAST few days, Cloud has been busy running errands for his boss. Those errands were supposed to helped them keep Lady SM’s identity from the Count’s father hidden for at least a couple of weeks while the Count thinks of ways on how to keep Lady SM safe.

He was tired, it’s already a given, but what he didn’t expect to feel was missing the Marquess. Yes, I fucking miss him . And that piece of information stunned Cloud.

Nuong una, akala niya simpleng pagkagusto lang ang nararamdaman niya para sa Marquess. Paglaon ay gusto na niya itong halikan. Ngayon naman miss na niya ito at gusto niya itong palaging kasama.

In those days that he was busy, he didn’t forget to cooked meals for the Marquess just to see him even for a couple of seconds, and that’s some dedication on Cloud’s part. Even he can’t believe it himself.

Good thing Lady SM was now allowed to travel, that means they’re now going back home where he could see the Marquess, 24/7.

Using the Marquess’ private plane again, they went back to the Philippines. After nearly three hours, they entered his boss’ house in Bachelor’s Village.

Cloud immediately went to the kitchen to prepare food and was confused when Dimitri followed him there. The Marquess’ was nowhere to be seen, he must’ve gone to his room upstairs.

“What?” Tanong niya kay Dimitri.

“I’m confused.” Panimula nito.

“About what?” Tanong niya rito habang inihahanda niya ang ingredients na kakailanganin niya sa pagluluto.

“About your relationship with the Marquess.”

Napatigil sa ginagawa si Cloud saka humarap kay Dimitri. “What do you mean?”

“You know what I mean.” Makahulugang sabi ni Dimitri.

Fuck ! He’s still not ready for this. He’s still figuring everything out. He only told his boss because they’re really close.

“He’s a friend.” Cloud lied and scoffed at himself. A friend that I wanna kiss senseless.

Cloud knew Dimitri didn’t bought his answer but Dimitri dropped the topic.

“If you say so.” Ani Dimitri, “anyways, I’m heading to North’s lair. He need help on something.” Napailing ito. “Puwede mo ba kaming dalhan ng pagkain doon?”

“Sure.” Mabilis na sagot ni Cloud.

“Thanks. Bye.”

“Bye.”

Nang makalabas si Dimitri ng kusina, ilang segundo lang ang lumipas ay pumasok ang Marquess. Masama na naman ang tabas ng mukha nito at syempre, masama ang tingin sa kaniya.

I wonder why . He didn’t pester the Marquess in the plane though. He even chose to sit beside Dimitri on the way back because he keeps on thinking about lollipop and sucking and he didn’t want the Marquess to see his pants tightening. What’s his problem now?

Nang umupo ang Marquess sa stool ng island counter, lumapit siya sa kabilang panig ng island counter at ipinatong ang mga braso sa ibabaw niyon at kinausap ito.

“What’s with the glaring eyes?” Tanong niya sa Marquess. “I’m pretty sure I didn’t do anything wrong this time.”

Masama lang ang tingin nito sa kaniya at ayaw umimik kaya hinayaan niya lang ito hanggang sa kumalma ito. Cloud just busied himself with cooking their meal.

Akala niya kakalma kaagad ang Marquess kapag hindi niya ito kinulit, pero hanggang sa matapos siyang magluto, masama pa rin ang tingin nito sa kaniya.

Something’s up.

Humarap siya rito habang nakahilig siya sa lababo at nakapatong ang mga kamay niya sa magkabilang gilid ng kinahihiligan, kapagkuwan ay tumingin siya sa Marquess. “Okay, tell me, what did I do wrong for you to keep glaring at me for the last 55 minutes?”

Instead of answering him, the Marquess glowered in anger then he left the kitchen, leaving Cloud confused.

Is he being a mitch again? Probably .

Natatawang napailing nalang si Cloud bago inasikaso ang dadalhin niyang pagkain para kay North at Dimitri.

Nasa kalagitnaan siya nang paglalagay ng pagkain sa plastic container para kay Dimitri at North ng tumunog ang cellphone niya. Kinuha niya iyon sa bulsa para tingnan kung bakit iyon nag-ingay.

A text message from the Marquess.

‘After you give Dimitri his food, come back quick. I wanna watch a movie .’

Natigilan si Cloud sa nabasa. So the Marquess heard his conversations with Dimitri earlier? Was that why he’s mad? Nah . Better not get his hopes up. He can still clearly remember how he was friendzoned by the Marquess.

To Lord Jacques, he’s just a good friend.

That actually stung, but that’s reality. Pasalamat nalang siya na hindi siya nito iniiwasan pagkatapos ng mga pinagtapat niya nuong nasa eroplano sila patungong Hong Kong.

Cloud replied with a smile.

’ Miss me?’

Well, he might have been friendzoned but he could still tease the Marquess, so that’s okay.

Lord Jacques replied.

From: Marquess

’ Yeah. No time to hang out with you these past few days.’

Cloud blinked, froze, closed his phone and carefully place it on the island counter. Then one of his hand gripped the edge of the island counter tightly like he’s about to fall, while the other was gripping his chest where his heart was located.

His heart … his heart that’s beating so fast and so loud that even he can hear it.

What the hell… fuck …

Cloud gripped his heart again. Calm down. Why the fuck are you beating so fast and loud?! You sick or something?! Settle down, dammit!

Cloud knew its not a good sign. It shouts bad all over!

Cloud was still gripping his chest when his lord entered the kitchen. His boss immediately looked at him funny — well, even he looks funny to himself. The way he clutched his heart, like he was afraid it might fall from his chest.

“Your heart hurts?” May pag-aalalang tanong ng boss niya sa kaniya.

Umiling siya. “Beating faster.”

“Palpitation?”

“Maybe — I don’t know.” Cloud was slightly panicking, still clutching his chest. “I received a text and then boom, my heart’s a mess.”

His boss looked at him incredulously before chuckling like something was funny. “Must be love.”

It’s now Cloud’s turn to look at his boss incredulously. “What the fuck now?”

His boss looked at him, amused. “Man, it’s gonna be hard for you from now on.” Siyang-siya pa ang boss niya na makitang naguguluhan siya. “Get ready, Cloud. It’s gonna be a rough ride.”

“What do you mean, my lord?” Now he’s getting nervous.

“Well,” umaktong nag-iisip ang baliw niyang boss bago ibinalik ang tingin sa kaniya. “Where do you think it’s leading you — this liking a man thing?”

“What?”

“Don’t play dumb, Cloud. You must’ve known where it’s leading you. You’re not blind, are you? I mean, I think what you’re feeling now is the same as what I’m feeling for my beautiful baby.”

Wait — what?!

“Yep.” Tumango-tango pa ang boss niya na walang pakialam sa nararamdaman niya sa mga sandaling ’yon. “I think it’s the same, love is love after all.” His boss shrugged nonchalantly. “Man,” his boss looked at him, “good luck, you’ll need it.”

Cloud was frozen, still trying to process everything that his boss just dropped.

“So…”

Nagtatakang tumingin si Cloud sa boss niya, “what so?”

“Are you in that stage yet?”

Now he’s confused. “What’s stage?”

“You know … sex?”

“No. No. No. No. No. No. No.” Umatras siya palayo sa boss niya. “I will not let you put those things in my mind—”

Tumawa lang ang boss niya. “Ah, Cloud, you’re so funny to tease.” Tumawa na naman ito. “My ever so calm and levelheaded Butler is panicking.” The Count laughed again. “Ah, what a beautiful day indeed.”

Cloud glared at the Count. “Fuck you, my Lord! Fuck you! First the kiss, then the sucking and now sex?! You’re not fucking helping! I’m still trying to figure things out! I’m always thinking of kissing and now sucking because of you! It’s not normal anymore!”

Tawa lang ng tawa ang baliw niyang boss saka sumeryoso ito sabay sabing, “you’re welcome, Cloud.”

Cloud grunted in annoyance. He wanted to pull his hair out. Before the Marquess, he’s a very calm person, nothing can rattle him, not even a gun that was aimed at him, but now, look at him. He’s like a puddle of mess!

Tumigil na rin sa pagtawa ang boss niya sa kaniya saka sumeryoso ang mukha nito. “I’m sorry, Cloud.”

Cloud frowned. “Why are you saying sorry—”

“Because I can’t be of any help to you.” Anito sa seryosong boses. His boss sounded so sincere. “You know I’ll support you in everything, you know that I don’t mind the changes in you. I wholly accept you, Cloud. Nothing can ever change that. But there’s one thing I can’t do for you.”

“W-what, my lord?” Cloud felt anxious. His boss’ support gives him courage to accept this changes in him, even when he’s crazy most of the time and giving him crazy ideas, his boss actually helped him a lot. “What is it?” Cloud asked again when the Count remained silent.

Count Knight took a dramatic deep breath and while looking at him in the eyes, he said, “I can’t watch gay porn with you—”

Mabilis na inabot ni Cloud ang pinakamalapit na kutsilyo sa kaniya saka galit na ibinato ’yon sa may sayad niyang boss pero madali itong naka-ilag. Akmang aabutin niya ulit ang isa pang kutsilyo ng kumaripas ng takbo ang baliw niyang amo palabas ng kusina.

Nanginginig ang kamay ni Cloud habang hawak ang ikalawang kutsilyo na hindi naibato sa boss niya.

But then his boss has the audacity to come back, but half of his body was hiding from the kitchen door frame.

“Don’t be mad, Cloud. You have to know how to do it. Since I’m pretty sure you don’t know how, you have to watch gay porn—”

Ibinato niya sa pintuan ng kusina ang kutsilyong hawak pero bumaon iyon sa hamba ng pintuan at tumawa lang ang boss niya.

“Good luck, Cloud! I have faith in you!” Sigaw ng baliw niyang boss bago nagmamadaling umalis sa kusina ng makitang hahabulin niya ito ng kutsilyo.

Cloud was huffing in anger as he went back to the island counter. He, then, picked up his phone and replied to the Marquess’ text.

‘I’ll hang out with Dimitri and North for a couple of hours, so I can’t watch a movie with you. Kumuha ka nalang ng DVD sa kuwarto ko. I’ll ready your meal before I leave, so just come to the kitchen when you feel like eating.’

Then he hit send and blew out a loud breath.

Hindi niya kayang pakiharapan ngayon ang Marquess. Pagkatapos ng mga pinagsasasabi ng baliw niyang boss, siguradong doon lang pupunta ang isip niya.

Watching a movie, alone with Lord Jacques after his boss’ craziness will be the death of him. He has to stay away for a couple of hours to clear his head and to take his mind off the gutter.

He doesn’t want to scare Lord Jacques. Tanging pagkakaibigan lang ang kaya nitong ibigay sa kaniya at dapat niyang i-respeto ‘yon. Though he flirts with the Marquess, he’s still holding back. If he showed Lord Jacques that he’s sexually attracted to him — though it’s already a given but I doubt Lord Jacques’ knowledge about this — the Marquess will really push him away and he doesn’t like that.

Cloud’s a sexual person, but he has to suppressed it so he’ll be able to be around the Marquess calmly, without thinking with what’s inside his pants.

Naiiling na inihanda niya ang pagkain ng Marquess saka umalis ng bahay para hatiran ng pagkain si Dimitri at North. Pilit niyang inaalis ang kabaliwan ng boss niya sa isip niya. Pero kahit anong gawin niya, ayaw talagang maalis sa isip niya.

Especially the sex part. Cloud admits, he’s curious. He doesn’t know how two men does it and his crazy boss suggested a fucking idiotic idea — but here he was, curious.

Thirty minutes later, Dimitri and North were now enjoying the food he made for them and Cloud was still trying to clear his mind, but it’s not working.

“Alis na ako.” Paalam niya habang kung saan-sana na napupunta ang utak niya. He lied to Lord Jacques, he wasn’t planning on staying that long with Dimitri and North.

“Take care.” Wika ni North.

“Thanks for the food.” Wika naman no Dimitri.

Cloud just waved his hand in the air and left North’s lair.

It was less than thirty minutes drive back to BV. When Cloud parked his car in the garage, he killed the engine but he didn’t climbed out of the car. Ilang minuto lang siyang nakatitig sa kawalan, laman ng isip niya ang pinagsasasabi ng boss niya, bago napakurap-kurap at bumalik sa kasalukuyan.

Instead of climbing out of the car, he picked up his phone from the dashboard and went to the search engine.

Seconds later, Cloud was preoccupied by an article about men to men sex.

Yes, he has given in to temptation. And it’s going to be the death of me.

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 10

IT’S OFFICIAL, Cloud was avoiding him, Jacques concluded. How could he tell? Easy. Hindi na siya nito dinadalhan ng pagkain sa kuwarto niya sa tuwing nakakalimot siyang kumain, ayaw na rin nitong manood ng pelikula kasama siya, kapag magkasama naman sila, gumagawa ito ng dahilan o paraan para makalayo ito sa kaniya. Kapag nagti-text siya rito, maikli lang ang mga sagot nito. Kapag kinakausap niya ito, kung anong tanong niya, iyon lang ang sagot na makukuha niya rito.

The teasing and sarcastic Cloud was gone.

It all started three days ago, in his plane, going back home. The bastard even sat with Dimitri and not with him just to avoid him. Jacques should be happy, no one’s pissing him off anymore, no one’s teasing him and flirting with him, but he’s not. He’s far from being happy. He’s pissed! He’s very pissed!

So he plans to confront the son of a bitch who’s avoiding him these past few days and hanging out with Dimitri all the time.

Jacques barged into Cloud’s room after everyone had quieted down inside the Count’s house.

It’s 11:05 PM.

Kaagad na pinalibot ni Jacques ang tingin ng hindi nakita ang hinahanap. “Clo—”

The door to the bathroom opened and Cloud stepped out.

Jacques didn’t know why his mind went blank seeing Cloud with only a towel wrapped around his waist.

Broad chest. Sexy veiny arms. Well-built biceps. Well-toned body. Six packs abs. Chiseled v-line. And a very sexy back.

That’s the body of the philandering bastard in-front of Jacques and he’s impressed. He could never have that kind of body since his Doctor advice him not to exercise a lot because of his condition. The closest thing Jacques did for an exercise was swimming — the only thing he’s allowed to do to have a well-toned body and just enough arms, thighs and leg muscle.

“Lord Jacques…”

That woke Jacques up from his own thoughts.

Jacques dragged his eyes from Cloud’s body to Cloud’s eyes. “Let’s talk. You have some fucking explaining to do.”

Naglakad siya patungo sa kama at nakasunod lang ang tingin nito sa kaniya.

“Now. Cloud.” May diin niyang sabi habang matalim ang tingin dito dahil hindi ito gumalaw sa kinatatayuan.

Cloud blinked a couple of times while gripping the towel wrapped around his waist before going towards the walk-in closet. Nang makalabas ito doon, nakasuot na ito ng itim na sweatpants at medyo maluwang na kulay gray na muscle shirt.

Cloud was drying his wet hair with the same towel he used to wrapped around his waist earlier and Jacques couldn’t stop the disapproving look on his face when Cloud sat on the single sofa, meters away from him who’s sitting on the edge of the bed.

Hindi na kayang magpigil ni Jacques kaya nagsalita na siya. “Why are you avoiding me?”

“No I’m not—”

“ Los Cojones! “ Bullshit! Jacques’ lips curled into irritation. “Talk or I’ll fucking hit you.”

Ilang segundong tahimik lang si Cloud habang nakatitig sa kaniya na parang inaarok ang laman ng isip niya, kapagkuwan ay tinigil nito ang pagtuyo sa medyo basa pa nitong buhok at basta nalang itinapon ang tuwalya sa isa pang pang-isahang sofa bago tumayo mula sa pagkakaupo at naglakad palapit sa kaniya saka tumigil sa harapan niya.

Pagkatapos ay walang sere-seremonyang sinapo nito ang magkabilang pisngi niya at basta nalang na inilapat ang labi nito sa labi niya.

Wide eyes and shocked, Jacques was frozen in place. Unmoving for a couple of seconds until his mind came back to him and with all his strength, he pushed Cloud away from him.

Jacques’ eyes held fury and disbelief fused into one as he stared at Cloud. The killing intent in Jacques’ eyes were palpable. “You motherfucker—”

“That’s why.” Cloud cut him off, confusion was now added to Jacques’ fury and disbelief. “That’s the reason I’d been avoiding you, Lord Jacques. I wanna kiss you so bad, I don’t want to make you uncomfortable so I keep my distance, but here you are, in my room asking for my reason. How am I suppose to stop myself now?”

Jacques huffed in anger. “Are you saying this is my fucking fault, you asshole?!”

Cloud didn’t say anything and Jacques’ angered doubled. Sa sobrang galit niya, kumuyom ang mga kamao niya at akmang susuntukin si Cloud pero ng makita niya ang kaguluhan, lungkot at pagsisisi sa mukha nito, hindi niya iyon maituloy. Jacques wanted to beat Cloud up so bad but he couldn’t — his body won’t allow him.

Angry at his traitor body, Jacques stormed out of Cloud’s room.

And while stalking towards his own room, Jacques had the back of his hand pressed against his lips, it’s like he can still feel Cloud’s lips on them. Soft but firm.

“How am I supposed to fucking know that he’d been avoiding me with that fucking reason?!” Jacques angrily asked himself when he entered his room and kicked the door close behind him. “Why the fuck does he make it sound like it’s my fucking fault ?! Why is he blaming me?! Fuck! Fuck! Fuck!”

To release the anger burning and boiling inside him, Jacques kicked the corner frame of his bed again and again, but his anger didn’t disappear.

He wanted to feel pain at the moment, he wanted to know how it feels like — he wanted to feel pain to replaced this fury inside him — he wanted to feel the pain to distract his anger.

But he couldn’t feel pain. All he felt at that moment was anger and frustration and it won’t go away even how much harder he kicked the bed frame.

Jacques told Cloud that he’s a good friend, Jacques thought he understood that — why must he do this to him?! Why?!

Yes. It was just a simple kiss. Only a peck even. But their lips still connected for a couple of seconds, long enough for Jacques to know that Cloud’s lips were soft but firm and Jacques knew what that kiss would do to his friendship with Cloud.

When Cloud’s lips were on him, that’s when Jacques felt the gravity of Cloud’s ‘feelings’ for him that he didn’t take seriously when he confessed to him in the plane. Jacques’ always thought that it was only a simple like, not too deep and only on the surface kind of like, he always thought that Cloud was just teasing him or something.

Pabagsak na naupo si Jacques sa gilid ng kama at napasabunot sa sariling buhok habang nakayuko. “I just don’t want to lose a good friend … Cloud is so good to me … what if that kiss ruin my friendship with Cloud?”

Now he’s regretting going to Cloud’s room. Sana pala hinayaan nalang niya itong iwasan siya. Sana pala hinintay niya itong ito mismo ang lumapit sa kaniya.

Fuck! Now I’m blaming myself. Fuck you, Cloud! Fuck you! Fuck you!

Jacques really wanted to release this anger and frustration inside him so he stood up and started ransacking his room to release this raging emotion inside him. So he would calm down. So he wouldn’t hurt Cloud in so much anger.

Good thing the Count’s room was sound-proof so they couldn’t hear what’s happening inside his room, but he was pretty sure that Cloud could hear him because minutes later, there was a knock on the door and he heard Cloud’s voice.

“Lord Jacques?”

Jacques didn’t answer but he stopped the distraction inside his room.

“I’m coming in.” Wika ng nasa labas.

When Cloud stepped inside his room, Jacques threw a heavy vase on Cloud that the latter was able to catch effortlessly before it hit his face.

Jacques wanted to shout at Cloud, to make him leave, but his mouth remained close even when Cloud started walking towards him, Jacques just stood there, frozen while remembering what happened in Cloud’s room.

That kiss … Cloud’s lips…

Thinking of that kiss, unconsciously, Jacques’ eyes dropped to Cloud’s lips. How can a man have soft lips anyway?! Fuck! What am I thinking?!

Bumalik sa kasalukuyan ang pag-iisip ni Jacques ng hawakan siya ni Cloud sa pulsuhan at walang sabi-sabing hinila siya patungong kama. Jacques tried to escape from Cloud’s grasp but Cloud didn’t let him. Mas lalo pang humigpit ang hawak nito sa kaniya at mas lalong ayaw siyang pakawalan.

That angered Jacques again.

“Let go of me and get the fuck out of my room!” Jacques hissed at Cloud angrily.

Cloud pushed him to the bed, “stay there.” Ani Cloud sa mababa pero may diing boses bago lumabas ng kuwarto niya, pero kapagkuwan ay bumalik din ito kaagad. May dala-dala na itong first aid kit at doon lang niya na napagtanto na nasugatan pala siya dahil sa paulit-ulit niyang pagsipa sa gilid ng kama niya.

Jacques was angry and frustrated but he couldn’t help but watch as Cloud sits on the bed and started cleaning his fresh wound on his leg.

Cloud didn’t say anything, afraid that it might set Jacques’ off again. Cloud stayed quiet as he clean his wound, put antiseptics and wrapped it with bandage. Kapagkuwan ay sunod nitong binigyan pansin ang mga braso niya na may mga pasa dahil sa pagwawala niya.

Carefully, like he’s a person sensitive to pain, Cloud cleaned his bruises before softly rubbing an ointment on them. Nang matapos ito, walang imik nitong itinabi ang first aid kit at nag-umpisa itong linisin ang kalat sa kuwarto niya na kagagawan niya.

And Jacques just watched Cloud while leaning on the bed’s headboard.

Jacques was still pissed at what Cloud did, but he didn’t say anything. Kahit naman anong mura niya rito, walang magbabago. What’s done was done. They couldn’t take back that kiss.

Hindi namalayan ni Jacques na tapos nang maglinis si Cloud hanggang sa walang imik itong bumalik sa pagkakaupo sa gilid ng kama niya habang ang likod nito ay nakaharap sa kaniya.

After a long while, the silence was broken by Cloud. “I’m sorry.”

Jacques let out a strained laugh. Two words from Cloud and it manages to melt his anger and frustration away. It only means that Cloud was really a good friend of his — a very good friend that he doesn’t want to lose.

“I’m sorry, Lord Jacquess—”

“Let’s just forget about it.”

Cloud stilled then he looked at him over his shoulder. “What?”

“Let’s just forget about it.” Ulit na sabi ni Jacques.

“What if I don’t want to … forget about it?” Tanong ni Cloud na ngayon ay nakaupo na paharap sa kaniya.

Jacques instantly glowered at Cloud. “Cloud, I’m trying to save our friendship here. I told you before, I don’t want to lose a good friend and you are a good friend to me. Can we just forget about the kiss and move on, hmm?” Jacques didn’t know that he was making a puppy dog face while negotiating with Cloud, “That’s the reason why I’m mad, because I’m afraid that that kiss will change our friendship and I don’t want that, Cloud. I wanna stay friends with you for a long time.”

Ilang segundong nakatitig lang sa kaniya si Cloud bago gumuhit ang ngiti sa mga labi nito.

Ah, I miss that smile . Jacques thought. He haven’t seen that for days now.

“Galit ka dahil sa tingin mo may magbabago sa pagkakaibigan natin dahil hinalikan kita?” Maingat si Cloud sa bawat salitang binibitawan, ayaw nitong magalit na naman ang Marquess.

Tumango ang kausap. “I’m not dumb. Kiss always changes relationship — and people. I’ve seen it with my own eyes.”

“So … you’re mad because of what the kiss will do to our friendship, but not because I kissed you?”

Jacques glared at him. “Should I beat you up?”

Cloud grinned. “Ah, and here I thought you’re mad about that.”

Jacques just scowled but what Cloud said got him thinking. Cloud was right, Jacques was more than angry at the effect it’ll do to their friendship rather than the fact that Jacques was kissed by a man.

Napailing siya, kahit ang sarili niya hindi niya maintindihan kung bakit.

Jacques blows a loud breath. “Let’s just forget about it—”

“I don’t think I can.” Cloud cut him off honestly. And looking at Cloud’s eyes, Cloud was telling the truth. “I like the kiss — I want more actually—”

“Cloud!” Jacques hissed at the motherfucker.

Tumawa lang si Cloud saka napailing. “Chill, my lord — though I’m not kidding.” Sobrang sama ng tingin ni Jacques kay Cloud habang nagsasalita ito. “For me, I don’t think it’ll affect our friendship though.”

Jacques gave him a deadpan look. “Fuck you, asshole. You know it fucking will. And because of that fucking kiss, I know for a fact that you want more than friendship from me. I’m not a kid not to figure that out.”

Cloud smiled and continued explaining his thought. “That’s true, I like you, and I want more than friendship, but, if it’s the only thing you can give me, then I’ll accept it. I won’t ask for more from you.” Cloud took a deep breath. “And I’m really sorry for kissing you without your consent. I was losing my mind these past few days, I couldn’t hold myself back anymore. Please, forgive me.”

“If I forgive you, you won’t avoid me anymore?” Jacques asked, he doesn’t really like the thought of Cloud avoiding him.

“I might avoid you again,” Cloud wanted to be honest with the Marquess. “When that happens, just let me. Hindi porke’t iniiwasan kita ay ayoko nang maging kaibigan ka. I just need the space to clear my mind and control myself so I won’t end up kissing you or more.”

Jacques paled with Cloud’s last word. “W-what do you mean by … more?”

Napangiwi si Cloud. “You don’t wanna go there.”

Jacques gulped. “Fine. I will let you have your fucking space when you want it — but two days only. Tops. No negotiation.”

Napatanga si Cloud sa Marquess. “So … I’m allowed to avoid you for two days only?” Napapantastikuhan niyang tanong.

Tumango si Jacques. “Yes. Be thankful that I’m being fucking considerate. So whatever it is that you have to control or settle, do it in two days and then come back to me.”

Cloud breathing hitched at Lord Jacques’ last word. Does this guy even know what he just said? Or is he that oblivious to his own words?

“And if you want to avoid me again, tell me beforehand so I’ll know.” Dagdag pa ng Marquess.

And now, Cloud was perplexed. “It’s not like I can schedule my urges to kiss you or more…”

“Don’t fucking care.” Ani Jacques na walang pakialam. “Figure it out yourself. No negotiation.”

Cloud was dumbfounded. How the hell did their conversation turned out this way?

Tumingin si Jacques kay Cloud ng natahimik ito. “What?”

“Nothing.” Wika ni Cloud saka umiling pa. “just curious about something.”

“What?” Jacques asked.

Cloud slightly leaned in to the Marquess, before rolling his tongue in between his lips. “Can I still flirt with you?”

Jacques snorted. “Friends don’t do that.”

“Well,” tumaas ang sulok ng labi ni Cloud. “I didn’t say that I’ll treat you as a friend.”

Kaagad na sumama ang mukha ng Marquess. “Then what the fuck did we just talk about?!” Jacques snapped again.

“You can treat me as a friend, but I didn’t say that I’ll treat you the same.”

Jacques have this deadpan look on his face. “Now I’m confused, but you know what — whatever.” Jacques dismissed the topic quickly. “I don’t care. Just don’t avoid me again, I mean you can, but only for two days, after that, you come back to me. Understood?”

May naglalarong ngiti sa mga labi ni Cloud habang tumatango ito. “Yes, my lord.”

Jacques scowled at Cloud before pointing his leg wound. “That’s your fault. Better take good care of me.”

“I will.” Cloud had this triumphant smile. “Wanna watch a movie?”

Jacques’ face actually lit up, making Cloud smile. “Sure. The scarier, the better.”

Cloud playfully bowed down at Lord Jacques before Cloud went to fetch a film for them to watch while there’s a shadow of a smile on Jacques’ lips.

Jacques was happy that he and Cloud were back to normal again. He really didn’t like it when Cloud was avoiding him and the bastard had been hanging out with Dimitri instead. It’s annoying.

But now they’re back to being friends again — well, sort of. It’s okay though, as long as Cloud remains the same and treats him the same, he’s cool with that. Jacques would overlook Cloud’s flirty words as long as he won’t avoid him anymore.

Napatigil sa pag-iisip si Jacques ng pumasok si Cloud sa kuwarto niya at dumeretso ito sa DVD player. Moments later, the Conjuring 2 started playing on TV.

Lihim na nasiyahan si Jacques ng umupo sa kama si Cloud, sa tabi niya, habang nanonood. Pareho silang nakahilig sa headboard ng kama.

Jacques really likes that Cloud was not avoiding him anymore.

Ilang minuto pa lang ang nakakalipas mula ng mag-umpisa ang pelikula na pinapanood, nakita niyang umilaw ang cellphone niya na nasa bedside table.

Someone’s calling him.

Nang makitang si Kaius ’yon, kaagad niya iyong sinagot. “Yes?”

“How are you, Jacq?”

Napatingin siya sa benda niya sa binti. “I’m good.”

“Good. Free to talk?” Kaius asked.

“Nope.” Sagot niya.

“Then I’ll do the talking.” Ani Kaius. “My father wants to know how much information about Sweet Monday Lopez have you accumulated. Call me back if you’re free to talk. Bye.”

“Bye.”

Pinatay ni Jacques ang tawag at akmang ibabalik niya ang cellphone sa bedside table ng maramdaman niyang may humilig sa balikat niya.

Jacques looked at his shoulder to check and saw Cloud’s head comfortably resting on his shoulder.

“Cloud?”

“Mmmm?” Cloud sounded so comfortable as well.

“Wanna visit a Funeral Home?”

“Huh?” Umayos ng upo si Cloud saka tumingin sa kaniya. “Why?”

“You’re leaning on me. Comfortably I might say.” Jacques tsked. “You have a fucking death wish? Wanna die fucking early? I can fucking arrange that.”

Cloud chuckled and went back to resting his head on Jacques’ shoulder again.

“Cloud, get off!” Jacques hissed.

“I’m tired.” Cloud said in a groan. “Nilinis ko ang kalat sa kuwarto mo, kaya napagod ako. Bakit ka ba kasi nagwala?”

“To release my anger so I won’t kill you.”

Cloud chuckled again and stayed silent, few minutes later, Cloud called out his name.

“Jacques?” It was the second time without honorific.

“Hmm?” Jacques hummed in response while watching the film.

“You lips tastes good by the way.”

Napailing si Jacques. Cloud’s really a shameless prick. “Can you be more shameless than that?” Puno ng sarkasmo niyang tanong.

Cloud let out a deep sexy chuckle and then his voice became low and enticing, “the next time I kiss you, I’ll make sure to do it in french.”

Jacques can’t help but chuckle. He didn’t care about the ‘next time’ in Cloud’s sentence, his mind focused on the word ‘french’. “Was that a pun, Mr. French guy?” Cloud was French by origin, they just moved to Spain.

Natawa na rin si Cloud habang nakahilig ang likod nito sa headboard at nakahilig ang ulo sa balikat ng Marquess. “Wait, let me think of another one.”

Jacques laughed again. “You’re impossible, Cloud.”

“I got one!” Umayos pa talaga ng upo si Cloud saka tumingin sa kaniya kaya napatingin din siya rito.

“Well?”

Tumikhim muna si Cloud bago bumukas ang bibig. “I borrowed a kiss from you earlier, want me to give it back?”

Tumaas ang dalawang kilay niya. “Is this how you pick up your women?” Jacques snorted. “And they call you womanizer.” He said in thick sarcasm.

“How about you do it, you son of a bitch.” Cloud said in a playful tone.

Jacques smirked at Cloud. “They say your tongue is the strongest muscle in your body. Wanna fight?”

Cloud matched the grin on Jacques’ lips. “Damn…If I didn’t know better, I’d say ‘what are you waiting for? My tongue’s all yours’.”

Jacques laughed so hard for a whole minute before he sobered up. “See?” He said between laughs “It’s good that we’re back to being good friends.”

Cloud leaned on the headboard again, his eyes boring into the TV. “I don’t think of you as a friend though.”

Jacques tsked. “Nube, don’t fucking ruin the moment.”

Cloud stilled and inquisitively looked at Jacques. “What did you just call me?”

“Nube. That’s your name in my phone.” Sagot naman ni Jacques bago bumalik sa pagkakahilig sa headboard. “Spanish for ‘cloud’.” Nube is pronounced as Noo-beh.

Tumaas ang sulok ng labi ni Cloud. “Sounds like an endearment to me.” He teases the Marquess. “Should I call you mon amour or mon cher . Which do you prefer?”

Jacques answered him with his middle finger. “Fuck you.”

Cloud retaliate. “When and where?”

Lord Jacques showed him another middle finger and Cloud just laughed before focusing his attention on the film.

But from time to time, Cloud would look at the Marques who has a small smile playing on his lips while watching. Lord Jacques looked happy.

Cloud smiled to himself. What an adorable son of a bitch.

CHAPTER 11

CHAPTER 11

“HOW’S LADY SM doing?” Tanong ni Cloud kay Lord Jacques ng makabalik ito sa kusina galing sa paghahatid ng pagkain kay Lady SM. They don’t want Lady SM moving around the house after she got shot. She needs to recover soon or else, Cloud’s boss will lose his mind.

“She’s recovering pretty fast.” Sagot ng Marquess saka humilig ito sa island counter. “How’s your lord doing?” Ito naman ang nagtanong kay Cloud.

“Working as usual.” Sagot ni Cloud habang inihahanda ang pagkain ng Marquess sa lamesa. “Come here,” pagkuwan ay aya niya rito sa mesa, “eat.”

Lumapit naman kaagad ang Marquess sa mesa saka umupo. Pero sa halip na kumain, tumuon ang nagtatanong nitong mga mata sa plastic container na nilalagyan ni Cloud ng pagkain.

“You’re gonna go to Dimitri’s place again?” Jacques felt irritated for some reason.

Tumango naman si Cloud na hindi nakita ang iritasyon sa mukha ni Jacques dahil abala ito sa paglalagay ng pagkain sa plastic container. “Dimitri doesn’t like take out, just like a son of a bitch I know.”

Jacques scowled at Cloud. “Will it take you a while?”

Napatigil sa ginagawa si Cloud saka nag-angat ng tingin sa Marquess. Seeing Lord Jacques’ face, if Cloud didn’t know better, he’d say the Marquess doesn’t want him meeting Dimitri. But it’s as clear as day that Lord Jacques can only gave him friendship, so Cloud has to accept it, even though he wants more than that.

“Couple of hours.” Sagot ni Cloud sa Marquess.

Now Jacques was pissed. “That long?”

“Yep.”

“Can’t you use courier to send it to him?”

“Nope. It’s a secret place.”

Hindi na nagsalita si Jacques. Nag-umpisa nalang siyang kumain at paminsan-minsan ay sumusulyap kay Cloud na ngayon ay kausap si Dimitri sa cellphone.

“Yeah? You want that? Okay.” Cloud has this happy smile on his face that annoyed Jacques even more. “Sure. Dadaan ako sa grocery para mabili ko — no it’s okay. ’Yon lang ba ipapabili mo sa ’kin? Wala nang iba?”

Hindi namalayan ni Jacques na tumigil na pala siya sa pagkain dahil nakatuon ang buong atensiyon niya kay Cloud na nakikipag-usap kay Dimitri sa cellphone.

Then Jacques heard Cloud laughed like he’s enjoying the fucking conversation with Dimitri.

“Really, Dimitri?” Cloud was still laughing. “Fine, fine. I’ll be their in 30.”

Nang tapusin ni Cloud ang tawag, kaagad na ibinalik ni Jacques ang atensiyon sa pinggan niya.

“I have to go now.” Imporma sa kaniya ni Cloud. “Take care of Lady SM. If you need anything while I’m away, text or call me.”

Tumango lang siya habang nakatutok ang mga mata sa pinggan, pinapakiramdaman niya ang galaw ni Cloud, kaya naman ng umikot ito sa lamesa palapit sa kaniya, nakahanda siya sa sunod nitong gagawin.

Jacques was ready, he knew Cloud’s gonna flirt again before he leaves. Jacques was sure that it’s gonna be some flirty words again, Jacques was used to it by now, but he was taken aback because instead of flirty words, Cloud kissed the top of his head before tapping his shoulder.

“I’ll be back soon, my lord.” Cloud said then he left.

And Jacques was left in shock, his hand touched the place on the top of his head where Cloud kissed him.

Then Jacques tsked. “That motherfucker…” He scowled. “Cloud’s becoming so touchy these days. I’ll kick his ass later.”

Naiiling na tinapos ni Jacques ang pagkain, saka hinugasan ang pinagkainan bago tinungo ang kuwarto ng Conde para tingnan ang kalagayan ni Lady SM.

Lady SM was sleeping peacefully and Jacques couldn’t help but to stare. Looking at Lady SM peacefully sleeping face, he remembered what Kaius told him when he called him yesterday, when Jacques was finally able to talk without prying ears.

The Triad, the organization his father was secretly part of, wanted him to eliminate Lady SM. They wanted her out of the way. Jacques said yes to end the conversation.

He’s here because of this woman. He meet Cloud because of his mission. He told Cloud that he wanted to stay friends with him for a long time, but could they really stay friends after this? Cloud’s very loyal to the Count, if Cloud finds out about his mission, he would treat him differently — no, Cloud would definitely hate him. I don’t want that.

Jacques sighed and left the Count’s room. He has all the chance to eliminate Lady SM but he doesn’t want to. Lady SM was a very good person who treated him kindly and with respect. How could he hurt such an amazing woman?

Hindi ito ang unang misyon niya, maraming beses na siyang pinadala sa mga misyon para mag-ispeya pero hindi pa siya nagdalawang-isip ng ganito.

Dahil ba naging malapit na siya sa mga tao sa loob ng bahay na ’to? Jacques knew he got attached.

Lady SM was a very kind and genuine woman. The Count was irritating and annoying but Jacques learn one thing about the motherfucker that made him less irritating, The Count cares so much about everyone. Then there’s Dimitri, for some reason, Jacques hates him even though he’s a nice guy. And then there’s Cloud — the guy who genuinely takes good care of him, the only person who could stand his bad temper — the philandering bastard who likes him, romantically.

Meeting these people, Jacques was having a hard time completing his mission. He doesn’t want to hurt these people, but if he doesn’t, he’ll be punished severely.

Bumuntong-hininga si Jacques saka tinungo ang kuwarto niya. Tamang-tama naman na tumatawag si Kaius.

“Hey.” Aniya ng sagutin ang tawag.

“How’s it going?” Kaius asked.

Nahiga siya sa kama. “I’m good.”

Kaius sighed. “You don’t sound good to me. Something I need to know?”

This time, it was Jacques’ turn to sighed. “Do I really need to kill Lady SM?”

“Yes.”

“What if I don’t want to?”

“The punishment is death, Jacq. Do you really wanna risk it?”

Nawalan ng imik si Jacques.

“Why are you hesitating?” Kaius asked, confused at Jacques’ hesitation. “This is unlike you.”

Napatitig si Jacques sa kisame. “I made a fucking friend.”

“Who?” Kaius knew that Jacques would never consider someone a friend without a heavy reason.

“You don’t need to fuckin’ know that.”

Natahimik si Kaius sa kabilang linya. Ilang segundo ang lumipas bago ito nagsalita. “A mission is a mission, Jacques. You know that.”

“I know that, asshole.”

“Then don’t hesitate.” Ani Kaius saka pinatayan siya ng tawag.

Nanatiling nakatitig si Jacques sa kisame saka bununtong-hininga. And here he thought it was a simple mission. Well, it was, but he met good people and a good friend. Now, it’s getting hard.

Natigilan siya sa pag-iisip ng tumunog ang cellphone niya na nasa malapit pa rin sa tainga niya. Tinatamad na tiningnan niya kung bakit iyon tumunog.

It’s a text. From Cloud.

From: Nube

How’s my babe?

Napailing si Jacques saka mahinang natawa. Sanay na siya sa mga ganitong text ni Cloud. This doesn’t bother him anymore. It’s not like Cloud will stop being flirty after cursing him to no end — he did that already but Cloud’s still flirty.

Jacques replied using one emoticon only. ‘😔’. He wants to say he’s bored but too many words to type.

Mabilis na nag-reply si Cloud sa emoticon na senend niya.

From: Nube

OTW home.

Hindi na nag-reply si Jacques at ipinatong sa bedside table ang cellphone niya.

Habang naghihintay kay Cloud, ang daming pumapasok na katanungan sa isip ni Jacques — mga katanungan na wala siyang maisagot.

Like … Cloud’s confession and his kiss didn’t repulsed him. Why? I’m a man, so is Cloud. Was it normal not to feel repulsed by it or was it because they’re friends that’s why his mind could accept it?

Friends.

Jacques imagined his best friend, Kaius, kissing him and he felt all the hair on his body rose. He felt disgusted and he gagged. He wanted to vomit at the thought.

Fuck !

Marahas siyang napailing kapagkuwan ay inalala ang nangyari sa kuwarto ni Cloud, nuong isang gabi.

Jacques could still feel Cloud’s lips. They were soft but firm. Thinking about it doesn’t repulsed him, and it only means one thing, his tolerance to Cloud’s kiss has nothing to do with being good friends with him.

So … what does it mean?

Confused, he stood up and left the bed. Ayaw niyang mag-isip ng kung ano-ano kaya naman nagdesisyon siyang manood nalang ng pelikula.

Jacques opened the door to his room to get some DVDs in Cloud’s room when he came face to face with Cloud himself. They both froze, especially when they both realized that they’re body was only inches away from each other.

And Jacques didn’t miss it when Cloud’s eyes dropped to his lips and saw Cloud gulped. Jacques was not naïve to not recognize the glint in Cloud’s eyes as he stared at his lips — it was desire.

But when Cloud blinked, the desire disappeared and was replaced by a friendly but slightly flirty smile. “Hey…miss me?”

Jacques stared at Cloud for a couple of seconds. He could tell that Cloud was trying his hardest not to cross the friendship line that Jacques drew for them.

Hindi gumalaw si Jacques. Nanatili siya sa kinatatayuan at ganun din si Cloud. They’re body remained inches apart from one another.

“I was planning to watch a movie and was about to go to your room to get some DVDs.” Jacques said and licked the corner of his lips.

Cloud’s eyes dropped to his lips again while he was talking, and there it was, the desire in Cloud’s eyes were back. And it looked stronger than the last one, Jacques could feel it.

Cloud gulped and tried to smile at the Marquess to discard the desire in his eyes. “Anong gusto mong pelikula?” Tanong ni Cloud sa Marquess. “Ako na ang kukuha.”

“Anything but chick flicks.”

Cloud chuckled. “I know that already.” Cloud has to drag himself away from the Marquess to control the desire burning inside him.

Fuck ! Cloud was never the kind of guy to control his urges. He was used to ’ if I want you, I’ll fuck you’, but he couldn’t do that with the Marquess.

Lord Jacques will really hate him and kill him. He’s sure of that.

Inside his own room, Cloud calmed himself before going back to the Lord Jacques’ room with five DVDs in hand. He let Lord Jacques choose, and of course, the Marquess chose another horror film.

Pagkatapos ipasok ni Cloud ang DVD sa DVD player, tinungo niya ang sofa at doon umupo. Habang ang Marquess naman ay nakaupo sa kama nito at nakahilig sa headboard.

“Calming yourself?” Jacques asked when Cloud sat down on the sofa. Jacques instantly knew what’s happening when Cloud distanced himself from him.

Cloud nodded at the Marquess. He’s sure that he will be beaten up if the Marquess saw the bulged in between his thighs. Thanks to his crazy boss — note the sarcasm — and to a lot of articles he read about how men do it, his mind was always in the gutter when Lord Jacques’ was around.

Kaya nga iniwasan niya ito ng ilang araw. And looked what happened — it resulted in him kissing the Marquess because Cloud’s mind was driving him crazy and he couldn’t repress it anymore.

Of course, that kiss caused a loud argument but it was worth it. He get to prove that Lord Jacques’ lips were soft, luscious and sensual just like in his imagination. And yes, Cloud got that from a couple of seconds peck on the lips.

What? I’m talented like that.

Huminga ng malalim si Cloud saka tinuon ang buong atensiyon sa pelikula na pinapanood.

It’s a horror film, it was supposed to scare the fuck out of Cloud and scare his boner away, but nope, he’s getting harder and harder because his mind was a fucking tease — the memory of Lord Jacques’ licking the corner of his own lips earlier keeps repeating in his mind like a broken record.

Biglang tumayo si Cloud. He can’t take this anymore! He needs to calm down.

“I’m just going to take a bath.” Aniya saka naglakad patungo sa pinto.

Bago pa niya mapihit ang pinto pabukas, narinig niya ang nanunudyong boses ng Marquess.

“Cold shower?”

Cloud didn’t answer, he just left the Marquess’ room silently and went straight to the bathroom in his room to take a very cold shower, which was now a normal thing for him ever since he read those articles.

“THAT MOTHERFUCKER…” Jacques muttered under his breath when Cloud left his room to have a cold shower. So Cloud couldn’t control his desire after all. Well, he was a womanizer. Napailing nalang siya saka mag-isang nanood.

Hanggang sa matapos ang pelikula, walang Cloud na bumalik.

Napailing nalang si Jacques saka pinatay ang DVD at TV at bumalik ulit sa kama niya. Hindi siya inaantok, pero gusto niyang magpahinga kaya naman ipinikit niya ang mga mata. Jacques was trying to take a nap when he heard the door to his room opened.

Kaagad na nakilala ni Jacques ang may-ari ng yabag na papalapit sa kaniya.

“Lord Jacques?” It was Cloud calling his name softly.

Gising si Jacques pero hindi siya nagmulat ng mata. Gusto niyang malaman kung anong gagawin ng bagong dating sa isiping tulog siya. Jacques wanted to know if Cloud will be true to his words that he won’t ask for more from him.

So Jacques waited… moments later, the space beside him dipped, it only means one thing, Cloud was now sitting beside him, close enough but not that close for their skin to touch.

Jacques waited again.

“Lord Jacques?” Cloud called his name softly, like it’ll break if he calls his name with force. “Jacques?”

Jacques didn’t move and Cloud became silent.

Minutes later, Jacques was about to give up and open his eyes when something touch his face — It’s Cloud’s fingertips if his observation was correct.

Jacques has to control himself not to frown when he felt Cloud fingertips softly caressing his face, leaving a tingling sensation in its wake. What’s that? That’s a first for him. Jacques had been touched by women before, but no one was able to make him feel the tingling sensations that he’s feeling right now.

The control Jacques has to exercise not to tense under Cloud’s touch was exhausting him, but Jacques remained unmoving. Gusto niyang malaman kung may gagawin pa si Cloud.

To Jacques’ surprise, he felt disappointed when Cloud quickly pulled away his fingertips from caressing his face like he was burnt. Then Jacques heard Cloud sighed heavily.

“This sucks,” Cloud whispered, “I can’t even touch you freely. I never thought that liking a man could be this hard. If you were a girl, I would’ve court you already, maybe shared a kiss or two, but you are a man and its hard because I don’t want to make you uncomfortable. I keep asking myself if what I feel for you is wrong, but if it’s wrong, why does it feel so right for me?”

Cloud was silent for a long time before he spoke in a hush tone again.

“I’m really having a hard time, Lord Jacques. I’m sorry for flirting with you and touching you and kissing you — I just can’t stop it. I’m trying. Really hard. But the more I repress it, the more it comes out. What am I gonna do, my lord?” Cloud’s voice was begging, “I don’t want you to hate me, but I really wanna touch you so bad its driving me crazy.”

Then Jacques felt a hand that softly and carefully covered his closed eyes.

“Please,” Cloud whispered softly, “don’t wake up first.”

Jacques was confused what Cloud meant by that and why Cloud covered his eyes when he felt a soft lips covered his — and that’s when Jacques realized what Cloud meant.

Cloud. Fucking. Kissed. Him.

It’s easy to stop this craziness, it’s so easy that all Jacques needs to do was open his eyes and pushed Cloud away. That’s it. No one could stop him from doing that. No one, not even Cloud. But Jacques didn’t open his eyes nor pushed Cloud away — it’s like he doesn’t have the strength to do those things — it’s like his body was cooperating with Cloud.

Jacques remained unmoving. He remained ‘asleep’ as Cloud nipped the bottom of his lips, tugging it softly before Cloud’s tongue licked the seam and the upper part of his lips sending a tingling sensation throughout his body, awakening a heat from within him that he didn’t know existed until that moment.

Subconsciously, Jacques’ lips parted as Cloud kissed him softly, delicately, like a butterfly wings fluttering over his lips. No tongue. Just sweet soft kisses, but Jacques could feel the trembling of Cloud’s lips.

Jacques could feel it, Cloud wants more.

But Cloud stunned him by pulling away while breathing heavily, not uttering a single word, Cloud left his room.

Slowly, Jacques opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling in shell shock.

Why ? Why did he let that bastard do that to him?! Fucking why?! He’s straight! He doesn’t like men! He was never interested in men! So fucking why?!

Jacques ransacked his mind — he looked for answers in every corner of his brain, but to his shock, there was none.

The only answer his mind could come up with it was … I don’t know.

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 12

AFTER WHAT CLOUD did in the Marquess’ room, he felt so guilty he couldn’t focus on making their dinner. Kissing Lord Jacques while sleeping, he felt like a bastard thief. Alam niyang hindi ’yon magugustuhan ng Marquess pero ginawa pa rin niya. And he took advantage of him while sleeping for fuck’s sake!

How low can you fucking get, Cloud?! He screamed at himself inside his head. You need to apologize this instant!

Funny though, with his previous lovers, he doesn’t care about their feelings, he doesn’t care if he offended them, he’s an asshole who only takes and takes and never gives, but look at him now, karma really has no menu. He got served what he deserved.

“—Cloud!”

Ilang beses na napakurap-kurap si Cloud ng marinig na may tumawag sa pangalan niya saka kumunot ang nuo niya ng makitang pinatay ng boss niya ang stove.

“What are you—”

“Sunog na ang niluluto mo.” Anang boss niya saka tiningnan siya na parang binabasa ang emosyon sa mukha niya. “What did you do?” His boss was good at picking up emotions. “Why do you look so guilty?”

Sa halip na sumagot, nag-umpisa ulit si Cloud na magluto para sa hapunan nila, pero pinigilan siya ng boss niya.

“That’s enough.” The Count tsked. “We’ll eat take-out.”

“No, I’ll—”

“Cloud,” May diin ang boses ng Conde, “that’s an order.”

Cloud sighed before leaning in on the sink. “Sorry about the food, my lord.”

The Count tsked. “Huwag mo nang isipin ’yon. So…” he trailed while looking at Cloud, “what happened? What did you do?”

Umiling si Cloud. “No offence meant my lord, but every time we talk, I get crazier because of you.”

Mahinang tumawa ang Conde. “I’m so talented, you’re very much welcome.”

Cloud scowled at the Count. “No, you’re crazy and you’re passing it to me, my lord. Now, I’m going nuts too!”

The Count just shrugged nonchalantly before leaning in on the sink as well, beside Cloud, with his arms crossed over his chest. “Gaano ka na kabaliw sa kaniya?”

Cloud blows a loud breath. “I’m going crazy to the point that I burnt our dinner, and it never happened to me before. I’m losing my mind, my lord. How can liking a man be this hard and crazy?”

His lord looked at him incredulously. “How would I know? I’m straight as a fucking arrow.”

“I was too, then I met him.” Cloud glanced at his boss. “What am I gonna do, my lord? I went with the flow like you said, I let things unfold, and now I’m going crazy, because every time I see him, it’s either I wanna kiss him or fuck him. I’m losing my control. I’m afraid that I might push my feelings onto him if this continues and I don’t want that. I care for him too much. I know it’s too late, but, how do I fucking stop this?”

Ilang minutong natahimik ang boss niya bago ito sumagot. “I don’t know, Cloud, because not even once did I thought of stopping my feelings for Sweet Monday.” His boss looked earnest. “I know you’re having a hard time, but don’t blame it on liking a man. When it comes to matters of the heart, everyone is the same, Cloud. No one is different just because they have a different sexual preference. It’s the feeling, not the gender.”

Nagbaba ng tingin si Cloud. “I wish I didn’t tell him how I feel about him, I should’ve just stayed silent, because in silence, there’s no rejection.”

“No use regretting what you did, Cloud. What’s done is done. Don’t regret for being brave.” Tinapik ng Conde ang balikat niya. “I’ll take care of the take out. What would you like and that motherfucking Marquess?”

A smile shadowed Cloud’s lips. “I’ll cook for Lord Jacques. He doesn’t like take-out.”

Knight stared at Cloud and with a small smile, Knight shook his head. Ever since Cloud confessed to Knight that he’s starting to like a man, Cloud never mentioned the man’s name, but seeing Cloud now, Knight already knew who it was.

“I’ll call Calderon to deliver some food.” Knight said then tapped Cloud’s shoulder before leaving the kitchen.

Naiwan namang mag-isa si Cloud sa kusina, kapagkuwan ay mariin niyang ipinikit ang mga mata habang hinihilot ang sentido. Nagpapasalamat talaga siya sa boss niya. Baliw lang ito pero alam nito ang sasabihin para kahit papaano ay gumaan ang pakiramdam niya.

Cloud took a deep breath, then released them softly before starting to cook for Lord Jacques.

It’s not good to repress what he’s feeling, but if it’s the only way to stay close to the Lord Jacques, then Cloud would take whatever he can get.

While preparing for Lord Jacques’ meal, the take out from Calderon’s Restaurant arrived. Cloud immediately went to work, readying everything in silver trays and then he brought them to his boss’ room.

Cloud carefully placed the trays on the center table inside the Count’s room, then he bowed down at his boss and Lady SM. “Please, enjoy your dinner.”

“Thank you, Cloud.” Magiliw na sabi ni Lady SM habang may masuyong ngiti sa mga labi. “Thank you for always taking care of us.”

“You’re always welcome, Lady SM.” Pagkasabi nun ay yumukod si Cloud ulit bago lumabas sa kuwarto ng boss niya saka bumalik sa kusina para kunin ang tray na may lamang pagkain na para naman sa Marquess.

As Cloud carries the silver tray on one hand, he walked like how a perfect butler should. Chin up and back straight.

Nang makarating siya sa labas ng kuwarto ni Lord Jacques, kumatok muna siya bago pinihit pabukas ang pinto. Nagtaka siya ng wala siyang Marquess na nakita. Cloud checked every corner and when he couldn’t find the Marquess, he stepped out of the room and started looking for the Marquess — yes, still carrying the silver tray with food in one hand.

Nang mapadaan si Cloud sa sariling kuwarto, natigilan siya ng makitang bahagyang nakabukas ang pintuan niyon.

Cloud was certain that he closed the door to his room.

Frowning, Cloud went inside, and his eyebrows furrowed even more when he saw Lord Jacques lying on his own bed while watching a horror film again.

Cloud was confused and couldn’t stop himself from asking. “What are you doing in my room?”

The Marquess just shrugged and continued watching.

Cloud carefully placed the silver tray on the edge of the bed while eyeing the Marquess curiously.

“Kumain ka na muna.” Sabi niya sa Marquess.

“Mmm.” Lord Jacques just hummed.

Okay. Something’s wrong. “Are you feeling okay?”

Umalis ang tingin ng Marquess sa pinapanood na pelikula saka tumingin ito sa kaniya ng ilang segundo bago bumuka ang bibig nito para magtanong. “Kumain ka na ba?”

Cloud blinked at Lord Jacques, stunned at the language he used and how sexy he sounded while speaking Tagalog.

Jacques smirked at Cloud’s stunned face. “I do know how to speak the language a little.”

Gumuhit ang ngiti sa mga labi ni Cloud. “Hindi lang ako sanay.”

“Well?” Jacques inquired. “Kumain ka na ba?”

“Ang palaging tanong ng mga taong pa-fall.” Hindi mapigilan ni Cloud na mahinang matawa. “Are you trying to make me fall for you, Lord Jacques? Don’t bother, I already have.”

Napatanga sa kaniya ang Marquess kapagkuwan ay minura siya na mas lalong ikinatawa niya. “You’re really a shameless son of a bitch, you asshole prick.”

Cloud smirked at the Marquess. “You already know that I’m shameless, Lord Jacques. Now, eat, please.”

Sa halip na kumain tulad ng hiling ni Cloud, patagilid na ihinilig ni Jacques ang kanang balikat nito sa headboard ng kama habang nakatingin kay Cloud. “Cloud?”

“Yes, my lord?”

“Why do you like me?”

Bahagyang nagulat si Cloud sa tanong ng Marquess at nang makita iyon ni Jacques, nagpaliwanag ito.

“It’s just unbelievable for me.” Ani Jacques habang nakatingin sa mukha ni Cloud, pinagmamasdan ang emosyong naglalaro sa mukha nito. “I know I’m unlikeable. I’m hard to deal with. I have a bad temper. I don’t have any good traits and lastly, I’m not normal, so why? Why do you like me? As far as I can remember, I didn’t do anything good to you for you to like me.”

Cloud pressed his lips before answering honestly, “I don’t know either.” A lopsided smile appeared on Cloud’s lips, “I just do. Though I think we have different views of you, Lord Jacques. For me, you’re not unlikeable, I like you, remember? Also, yes, you’re hard to deal with, but that doesn’t really matter to me. I can deal with you just fine. Yes, you have a bad temper, I already experience it first hand but it’s part of the things I like about you. Don’t ask me why, I don’t know either. I like seeing you angry, it amuses me. And I beg to disagree about you not having a good trait, you do have two.”

“And those are?”

A seductive smile stretched on Cloud’s lips. “You’re handsome as fuck and sexy as hell.”

Tumaas ang dalawang kilay ng Marquess. “So it’s just physical?”

“No.” Cloud answered honestly. “I like how you can make me feel things I didn’t know I could feel. It scares me, at the same time, it excites me. I thought I have life figured out, I thought I knew myself and I thought the world could never surprise me anymore, then I met you, you prove me wrong, and I like it. You say that you’re not normal, but to me, you are. I told you before, insensitivity to pain doesn’t make you less of a normal person.”

“You like me that much?” Jacques was stunned.

Thmango si Cloud. “Gusto kita ng buong-buo, walang tapon.”

Jacques sighed heavily while still staring at Cloud. “But I’m a man, Cloud. And I don’t like men.”

“I perfectly know that.” Cloud gave the Marquess a charming smile. “Ngayong sinagot ko na ang mga tanong mo,” iminuwestra ni Cloud ang kamay sa tray, “kumain ka na. I know you don’t feel hunger but it’s way pass dinner time already.”

Jacques sighed before pausing the movie, then he got up from the bed, picked up the silver tray and he went to the sofa. “Go get your food in the kitchen.” Ani Jacques kay Cloud saka inilapag ang tray sa center table ng sofa. “Let’s eat together.”

“Yes, my lord.” Cloud replied and went to get his dinner so he could eat with the Marquess.

His boss was right, no use regretting his confession to Lord Jacques. Cloud was old enough to take full responsibility for his actions and words and also to accept rejection. He will just take whatever he could get from the Marquess and eating dinner with him was one of them.

Nang makalabas si Cloud ng kuwarto, naiwang mag-isa si Jacques sa loob na nakatingin sa tray na may lamang pagkain.

He was outside the kitchen earlier, he heard the motherfucking Count and Cloud’s conversation.

They’re supposed to eat take out, but Cloud opt to cook for him, telling the Count that he doesn’t like take out.

Jacques also heard Cloud saying he regrets confessing to him and he doesn’t want to force his feelings onto him, afraid that he might hate him if ever that happens and he will be uncomfortable around him.

But contrary to Cloud’s thinking, Jacques doesn’t feel uncomfortable around the guy even knowing that he likes him like that. Actually, he felt at ease — at ease because he knew Cloud wants to get close to him not because he’s a Marquess, but because he genuinely likes him. He’s a really good friend that Jacques wants to keep—

Friends don’t kiss . Said the voice from the back of his mind, startling Jacques and then his mind immediately went back to what happened earlier that day — when Cloud covered his eyes and kissed him while he was pretending to be asleep.

I didn’t kiss him back . Jacques retaliate.

Maybe you didn’t, but you accepted his kiss. His mind argued.

Jacques ruffled his own hair, annoyed. Now I’m talking to myself like a fucking crazy person! This is that fucking shameless prick fault!

Jacques tsked. He knew himself. He doesn’t like men. He likes Cloud — but only as a friend that he wants to keep.

If you keep him, you’ll just hurt him because you won’t reciprocate his feelings. Anang bahagi ng isip niya.

At natigilan siya dun. Tama naman kasi ang sinasabi ng isip niya. Masasaktan niya si Cloud dahil hindi naman niya kayang ibigay dito ang gusto nito. Pero ayaw naman niyang mawala si Cloud.

He’s a good friend, maybe even better than Kaius, not that he’s comparing the two. It’s just that with Cloud, Jacques could be himself. He doesn’t need to pretend. He doesn’t need to be someone else. He doesn’t see pity in Cloud’s eyes.

Cloud likes him and accepts him, bad temper, bad attitude, dirty mouth and all.

Jacques sighed and closed his eyes before leaning back on the sofa. Then his mind drifted off to the conversation he heard in the kitchen earlier.

I let things unfold, and now I’m going crazy, because every time I see him, it’s either I wanna kiss him or fuck him. I’m losing my control. Like a broken record, Jacques could hear Cloud’s voice again and again until his words became embedded in his mind.

Jacques slowly opened his eyes and he stared at the ceiling. He wants to fuck me. How do two men do it anyway?

Marahas na ipinilig ni Jacques ang ulo sa naisip. No. No. No. No. Fuck no! Don’t go there. Fuck no! That’s not happening!

Mabilis na bumaling ang ulo ni Jacques sa pinto ng kuwarto ni Cloud ng bumukas ’yon. Kaagad niyang nakita si Cloud na pumasok.

Jacques couldn’t take his eyes off of Cloud as he walked with tray on one hand. Cloud really has impeccable manners and graceful movement of a butler.

Well, he’s one hell of a butler. Sa isip-isip ni Jacques na ikinangiti niya.

“Someone looks happy.” Cloud commented.

Jacques just showed his middle finger to Cloud that made Cloud chuckle.

“Let’s eat.” Ani Cloud ng makaupo ito sa pang-isahang sofa na medyo may kalayuan sa kaniya.

Always a safe distance from me . Jacques thought while observing Cloud’s movement. He’s really having a hard time controlling himself, huh? Jaques finds it funny though that he couldn’t help but snickered.

Cloud just looked at him funny before digging in to his food.

Napailing naman si Jacques saka bumaba ang tingin sa pagkain ni Cloud. Its different from his. Cloud’s was take out, while his food was cooked by Cloud because he doesn’t like take out.

“Thanks for the food.” Ani Jacques kay Cloud.

Nag-angat ng tingin sa kaniya ang kaharap. May nanunudyong ngiti ito sa mga labi. “Aw, my pompous brat ass Marquess is changing.”

Nabitin sa pagsubo ng pagkain si Jacques sa narinig. Did Cloud just said ‘my’? Mabilis siyang nag-angat ng tingin kay Cloud na ngayon ay kumakain na. Was Cloud even aware of his words? Jacques slightly shook his head. Doesn’t matter.

Seconds passed, Cloud and Jacques were now eating quietly. Both were busy in their own thoughts wanting to talk, but one of them broke the silence.

“I’m sorry.”

Jacques looked up at Cloud. “Huh?”

“I’m sorry.” Tumigil sa pagkain si Cloud saka tumingin sa Marquess na puno ng pagtataka ang mukha. He’ll hate me for this but I hate feeling guilty. “When you were asleep earlier, I kissed you.”

That made Jacques stilled. He never thought Cloud would confess.

“I know I shouldn’t have.” Cloud said, “but, I can’t control myself. And I don’t want to lose my control, Lord Jacques. I want to take care of you, not hurt you or make you uncomfortable, that’s why, if you see or feel like I’m keeping my distance from you, just let me. I promise, I’ll try my best to stay friends with you and not cross the line.”

Jacques just nodded because he doesn’t know what to say. He could tell, Cloud’s having a hard time. But what can he do? He’s straight. He doesn’t like men.

Cloud was straight too, until he meet you. It’s the back of his mind again, talking.

Was that really possible? Cloud was straight his whole life and now he likes men? How does that even work?

Curious, Jacques asked Cloud while the latter was drinking water. “Do you find men attractive, since you said you like me? Does that mean you like your boss too—”

Cloud was drinking water, the next thing he knew he was coughing and choking. Before Jacques could hand the tissue in his tray, Cloud already grabbed it and used it to cover his mouth and nose.

Napangiwi naman si Jacques. Looks like he shocked Cloud.

“That was horrible.” Cloud muttered under his breath after nearly two minutes of coughing, but he’s better now. Then he looked at Lord Jacques who’s eyeing him worriedly. “I’m fine.”

“Sorry for the question.” Ani Jacques na nakangiwi. “It looks like you’re not prepared for that.”

“No. I was just taken aback.” Cloud took a deep breath. “But to answer your question, no, I don’t like the Count that way. What we have is purely brotherhood. I, ahm, I investigated myself actually. When I started liking you, I went to a club to see for myself if I am indeed interested in men.”

Jacques becomes agitated for some reason. He doesn’t like the idea of Cloud liking another man. Why though? “And?”

“And, nothing.”

“What do you mean?”

“Nothing.” Cloud leaned back on his seat while shaking his head. “There’s a lot of good looking guys there, but, I feel nothing. I’m not attracted to them like how I am attracted to you. It’s weird for me too. I mean, they don’t have the same vibe or feeling that I get every time I see you. I don’t know, but, I like myself better when I’m with you.” Cloud chuckled, “it all started when you genuinely smiled at me that day, when I picked you up because you got lost, followed by your sandalwood scent — I like the way you smell, and then gradually, I started liking the different sides of you.

“Then I started questioning myself about my sexual orientation because what I feel for you confuses me. Then I came to a realization that I’m making it complicated on my own because I really have no answer, so I just let things unfold. Come what may. Maybe in the long run, I’ll figure out what my sexuality is, but for now, in the present, I like you. Plain and simple.”

Jacques stared back at Cloud. This was what Jacques likes about Cloud, he’s shamelessly and annoyingly straight forward. He has the guts to say what’s on his mind and that’s admirable as much as its irritating.

“Don’t be pressured with my confession.” Dagdag ni Cloud ng hindi umimik ang Marquess. “It’s okay if you don’t like me back, just don’t tell me to stop liking you, that’s all I ask.”

“Hmm…” Jacques nodded with his chin then he continued eating again, but moments later, his mouth spoke without his fucking permission. “So Dimitri and you … it’s just brotherhood too?”

Cloud nodded. “Yeah.”

“You sure?”

Cloud placed his hand on his heart before giving him a sexy charming smile. “Rest assured, babe, you’re the only man who can make my heart pound.”

Jacques scowled. “Shameless asshole.”

Cloud just chuckled before resting his chin on his hand while playfully and sexily staring at Lord Jacques. “Mmm… how can a guy be so pretty and manly at the same time?”

“Stop fucking staring, you motherfucker!” Jacques said, annoyed and gritting his teeth because the way Cloud looks at him was making him nervous for fuck’s sake. “And stop fucking flirting, you son of a bitch!”

“Ah, I even like that dirty mouth of yours.” The corner of Cloud’s lips tugged up sexily while his chin was still resting on his hand, “I wonder if that dirty mouth of yours can also do dirty things —”

“Cloud!” Jacques hissed angrily.

Cloud blinked like he woke up from something before straightening his body. “Sorry.” Was all he said before he took his tray and left the room.

Si Jacques naman ay nagpakawala ng buntong-hininga saka napahawak sa magkabilang tainga niya na pakiramdam niya ay parang naglalagablab ’yon sa init.

Fuck! How could his definition of sexy changed into Cloud talking dirty? Fuck! No!

Marahas na ipinilig ni Jacques ang ulo saka mabilis na tinapos ang hapunan. Kapagkuwan ay ibinaba niya ang tray sa kusina, pero natigilan siya sa pagpasok ng makita si Cloud sa lababo na hinihilamos ang isang pitsel ng malamig na tubig na galing sa ref. Nang hindi ito nasiyahan, ibinuhos nito iyon sa buong ulo nito habang nakasubsob iyon sa lababo.

Is he trying to calm himself because of what happened?

Looking at Cloud, Jacques was angry. Bakit sa dami ng tao, sa kaniya pa ito nagkagusto? Kahit sinong babae, magkakagusto kay Cloud. He’s a good man, he deserves better.

Humugot ng malalim na hininga si Jacques bago pumasok ng kusina. Kapagkuwan ay maingat niyang inilapag ang tray sa gilid ng lababo.

Cloud didn’t say anything, he just took a side step to gave him space in front of the sink. Tahimik namang hinugasan ni Jacques ang pinagkainan.

Cloud was silent and immobile, until Cloud moved to his back, making Jacques tense.

“Just one minute.” Cloud said before he buried his face on the Marquess’ back, just below his nape.

Jacques didn’t move a muscle, his hands that were washing the dishes also stopped moving. Again, it’s easy to get away from this position, he just has to step aside, but he didn’t. Jacques could feel Cloud’s warm breath fanning and sipping through his thin shirt.

Hearing Cloud’s desperate and heavy breath, Jacques couldn’t take it anymore. He doesn’t like this one bit!

“You should stop liking me, Cloud.” Wika ni Jacques sa mahinang boses pero sapat na para marinig ng nasa likuran niya. And when Cloud heard it, Jacques felt him froze and his breathing stopped. “You’ll just get hurt because I can’t fuckin’ like you like that. I’m sorry.”

Slowly, Cloud started breathing again as he whispered. “Please, don’t tell me to stop liking you. I already tried and I failed.”

Jacques squeezed his eyes shut hearing the struggle in Lord Jacques’ voice. “Stop liking me, Cloud. It’s for your own good.”

“I won’t flirt with you anymore,” Cloud whispered, his voice and breathing were shaky. “I—I’ll treat you as a friend. I’ll do anything to not make you uncomfortable, just please, don’t tell me to stop liking you. That’s not gonna happen.”

“You have to make it happen.” Umikot siya paharap kay Cloud at hindi nagustuhan ni Jacques ang nakita. The sadness in Cloud’s face and the desperation in his eyes, this was not the Cloud that he knew.

The Cloud in front of him looks different. Was this the real him behind those flirty and charming smile?

“I’m sorry, Cloud.” Jacques muttered, seeing the pain in Cloud’s eyes that he caused. “I’m so sorry. I’m really sorry.”

Cloud blinked, then Jacques saw a happy smile covering every emotion in Cloud’s face. “It’s okay. I understand.” Cloud’s smile widened as he took a deep breath, “anyway, ahm, can you,” Cloud pointed at his back with his index finger, “can you lock up?” Before Jacques could ask, Cloud spoke again, “I’m gonna go grab a drink or two.” Cloud grinned. “Don’t worry and don’t wait up. Just lock the house after I leave.”

“Cloud—”

“I’ll call the Count to inform him.” Without waiting for Jacques’ reply, Cloud left the house.

And Jacques was left in the kitchen, worried. Minutes later, Jacques found himself locking every window and door. He was ascending on the staircase when someone spoke from the top of the staircase.

“Have you seen Cloud?” It was the motherfucking Count.

Napatigil sa pag-akyat ng hagdan si Jacques saka nag-angat ng tingin sa Conde. “Didn’t he inform you? He said he will.”

Frowning, the Count took out his phone from his pocket and then he called someone.

“Cloud, where are you?”

Hearing Cloud’s name, Jacques halts on his step again while trying to listen to the Count’s one sided conversation with Cloud.

“— what? But we have a bar here if you wanna drink — oh, you wanna breathe? Okay. Should I send you a fucking oxygen?” The Count joked and laughed. “Should I leave a door open for you?” Paused. “Huh? What — wait… then where are you gonna sleep?” Paused. “In Dimitri’s? Cloud, you do know that Dimitri only has one bed in his condo, and it’s not even made for two people.” The Count snorted. “Whatever. Tawagan mo nalang ako kung may kailangan ka. Okay. Bye.”

Jacques didn’t know that he was still frozen until the Count spoke again.

“Coming up, Marquess?”

Jacques blinked enumerable times before nodding. When Jacques reached the top of the staircase, the Count was just standing there, like he was waiting for him.

“What?” Iritadong tanong ni Jacques sa Conde ng hindi ito gumalaw para padaanin siya.

“I know you can’t reciprocate Cloud’s feelings,” panimula ng Conde, “but please bear with Cloud a little longer, Marquess. Just give him time, makakalimutan ka rin niya at hindi ka na niya guguluhin. For now, he’s just confused because this was his first time feeling something for a man, but it’ll pass. He’ll move on eventually — or maybe, Dimitri can help him move on.” Tinapik ng Conde ang balikat niya, “g’night, Marquess.”

Naiwan si Jacques sa nakatayo sa tuktok ng hagdanan, nakatingin sa kawalan habang parang sirang plaka na paulit-ulit na nagri-replay sa isip niya ang sinabi ng Conde.

He’s just confused because this was his first time feeling something for a man, but it’ll pass. He’ll move on eventually — or maybe, Dimitri can help him move on.

Jacques frowned. His teeth gritting. He’s annoyed … pissed.

Why ? Why does it bothers him so much? It would be nice if Cloud moves on, that means they can finally be good friends — that’s what he wanted.

But why — why does he feel sad all of the sudden?

CHAPTER 13

CHAPTER 13

“I APPRECIATE you cooking for me, but, how about the Count?” Tanong ni Dimitri kay Cloud habang nagluluto ito ng hapunan. For some reason, last night, Cloud crashed in his place after getting drunk. Then the Count’s butler woke up late, got drunk again, and now, eight hours later, Cloud’s cooking them dinner. “How about Lord Jacques?”

Cloud froze for a second but Dimitri caught it.

“What happened with you and the Marquess?” Tanong ni Dimitri kay Cloud.

“Nothing.” With a perfect happy smile, Cloud faced him with their dinner. “Let’s eat.”

Mas lalong tumiim ang titig niya kay Cloud. “Don’t lie to me, Cloud. This is not nothing. Ito ang unang beses na iniwan mo ang Conde ng mag-isa. Remember your promise not to leave his side?”

Iritadong inilapag ni Cloud ang pinggan na may pagkain sa pangdalawahang lamesa. That stunned Dimitri. Cloud was always calm and collected, not ill tempered.

“I just need to breathe.” Ani Cloud. “I’ll go home tomorrow morning.”

Dimitri frowned. “Tell me what happened.”

Umiling ang kausap. “Drop it, Dimitri. I’ll figure it out on my own.”

“But—”

“Let’s eat.”

Napabuntong-hininga nalang si Dimitri saka napailing at napipilitang itikom ang bibig. Cloud was the kind of person that has impenetrable walls built around him. People has no effect on him. Only one man was able to get through that wall and made Cloud care, and that was the Count.

Dimitri stared at Cloud, studying the emotion on his face. “May nakapasok ba sa mundo mo, maliban sa Conde?”

Cloud didn’t stop eating. He didn’t answer him. Nothing. Cloud just ate silently, after that, Cloud went to open his refrigerator to get some cold beer, then he started drinking again.

What the fuck happened to this guy?

Napailing nalang si Dimitri, kapagkuwan ay napatingin sa cellphone niya na nasa gilid ng kama na nag-iingay.

Dimitri stood up to answer the call. It was the Marquess.

“Hey.” The Marquess’ tone was unpleasant as ever. “Is Cloud still with you?”

Napatingin siya sa lalaking umiinom ng beer habang nanunood ng pelikula. “Yeah. Why?”

“He’s not answering my call.” There was a hint of sadness in the Marquess’ voice, making Dimitri frown.

“Well,” Dimitri sighed. “He’s not talking, but it seems like he’s not in a good mood right now.”

Natahimik ang nasa kabilang linya ng ilang segundo bago nagsalita. “Did, ahm, did he sleep in your place last night?”

“Yeah.”

“You two share a bed?”

Dimitri was getting more confused by the Marquess’ questions, but he still answered. “Yeah. Why?”

“Nothing. Ahm … bye.”

“…yeah, bye.”

When the phone call ended, Dimitri was even more confused. “Hey, Cloud?”

“Mmm?”

“The Marquess just called.”

Cloud tensed before relaxing, “yeah?”

“Yeah. He’s looking for you. Maybe it’s time for you to go home?” Dimitri suggested. “Looks like the Marquess’ misses you.” He joked.

Cloud snorted. “Yeah, right.” Then he sighed. “Just let me stay here tonight. I’ll go home tomorrow.”

“Suit yourself.” Sagot ni Dimitri saka bumalik sa pagkain ng hapunan. “I’m visiting a Triad HQ tonight. Coming?”

“I’ll pass.” Sagot ni Cloud. “My head’s still spinning.”

“Okay.”

Dimitri stayed silent after that. He doesn’t want to disturb Cloud who looks like he was thinking deeply over something. Iniwan niya ito sa condo niya ng mag-isa. He’s hoping that tomorrow, Cloud will be back to normal.

When Dimitri left, Cloud was left all alone inside Dimitri’s not so small but not so big condo either. It’s enough for one person, two was a crowd already, but he doesn’t wanna go home yet.

Cloud’s mad at himself for acting like a teenager. He’s nearing thirty for fuck’s sake and he still couldn’t control himself! Not only that, he couldn’t control the pain tugging his heart last night. It’s was suffocating, he needed to breathe.

Mula’t sapul, alam niyang walang katugon ang nararamdaman niya. The Marquess made it clear since day one, so the blame was on him.

Cloud’s thoughts were cut off when his phone rang again. It was place in the center table, and he could see the caller from where he was sitting.

Lord Jacques.

The Marquess had been calling since morning, but Cloud ignores them all. Wala naman siyang sasabihin. Hindi niya alam ang sasabihin. Cloud left to get away from Lord Jacques, but the latter keeps on calling.

Maybe I should answer …

Ipinilig niya ang ulo. No, Cloud. Don’t do it.

Inabot ni Cloud ang cellphone saka ini-off ’yon para walang makatawag sa kaniya, pagkatapos ay nilunod niya ang sarili sa alak hanggang sa malasing siya.

Cloud got drunk, slept and woke up in the couch. Nang tingnan niya ang relong pambisig, naghikab siya ng makitang alas-dos na nang madaling araw.

And just like yesterday night, Cloud’s head was spinning. “Fuck…”

Cloud forcefully dragged himself to Dimitri’s bed to sleep some more. And when he woke up, it was already past 8AM.

“Shit…” Cloud grunted before dragging himself to the bathroom to take a bath. After that, he looked for medicine to cure his raging hangover because he slammed his head on the nearest wall for pounding painfully.

After taking some Advil, Cloud opened Dimitri’s closet to look for something to wear. He can’t wear the same clothes because it stinks already.

Napailing nalang si Cloud ng mapansing pare-pareho ang damit ni Dimitri. Lahat kulay itim, at lahat faded ripped jeans. Dimitri’s fashion was similar to Cloud’s so it was easy to pick what to wear. And Cloud thank God when he saw new and unused set of boxers on Dimitri’s closet.

After checking himself in the mirror, to see if he’s presentable enough, he put his white shoes on and left Dimitri’s condo.

Tinungo niya ang sasakyang nakagarahe sa parking lot ng condominium building at kaagad na sumakay doon. Matapos buhayin ang makina ng sasakyan, binuhay rin niya ang cellphone niya at nagpadala ng mensahe kay Dimitri.

To: Dimitri A.

Thanks. I’m going home now.

Dimitri instantly replied. ’ Not for free. Cook for me tomorrow.’

Cloud chuckled and replied. ’ Deal ’.

Cloud, then, throws his phone to the passenger seat before manoeuvring his car towards the Bachelor’s Village.

It took him thirty minutes to arrive at his destination. Bago siya lumabas ng sasakyan, tinawagan muna niya ang boss niya na ni minsan ay hindi siya ginulo sa dalawang gabi na hindi siya nagparamdam dito.

“My lord.” Bati niya sa Conde. “I’m home.”

“Good. Take a rest.”

“Yes, my lord.”

Nang nawala ang boss sa kabilang linya, lumabas na siya ng sasakyan at tinahak ang daan papasok sa kabahayan. Cloud was entering the living room when he saw Lord Jacques walking towards him, subconsciously Cloud’s hand reached for his phone in his pocket to avoid the Marquess and he called Dimitri who, thankfully, answered.

“What?” Dimitri was grumpy.

Natawa siya. “I called to inform you that I borrow a shirt and a jeans in your closet. And of course, a boxer.” Cloud respectfully bowed down his head at the Marquess to show some respect before he continued conversing with Dimitri. “And I left some food in your refrigerator. Just reheat it.”

“Thanks. Anything else?” Bored na tanong ni Dimitri.

“I’m gonna refill the beer when I get back.”

“Replace it with Rum instead.”

Cloud laughed. “Fuck you. Not gonna happen, bastard. Anyways, I’m home. Call you later.”

“Later.”

Naiiling na pinatay ni Cloud ang tawag saka walang lingon-likod na dumeretso ito sa kuwarto nito, kaya hindi nito nakita ang matalim na pagtitig dito ng Marquess na nakakuyom ang kamao.

Seeing Cloud happy while talking to Dimitri was pissing Jacques off. While the bastard just bowed at him and didn’t even spare him a second glance after. Jacques was so worried for the last two nights, and it’s pissing him off because he doesn’t even know why he was worried in the first place. He was so livid, he was shaking.

How dare that shameless prick made him worry like that and then act like nothing happened?! That asshole will have a piece of his mind today! He’s done worrying and waiting for that motherfucker!

Akmang susundan niya si Cloud ng bigla nalang umikot ang paningin niya dahilan para mapahawak siya sa armrest ng pang-isahang sofa na malapit sa kaniya.

“Fuck…” Jacques breathe heavily. “What the fuck’s wrong with me?”

Because Jacques couldn’t feel pain, he doesn’t know what’s going on in his body — he doesn’t know what’s wrong with him. He doesn’t feel anything, be it pain or discomfort — nothing. He feels nothing but why was his surrounding spinning?

Jacques didn’t know how long he tried to balance himself until his surrounding stopped spinning.

Then he heard Cloud’s voice. “Are you okay?”

Jacques glared at Cloud. “Fuck you.” He wanted to scream at Cloud, but for some reason, he couldn’t. “Fuck you…”

Cautiously, Cloud went to Jacques’ side, “are you okay?” Ulit na tanong ni Cloud.

“Yes.” Bumitaw si Jacques sa pagkakahawak sa sofa para balansehin ang sarili niya. “I’m fine. I don’t need you—” suddenly, everything spun and he lost his balance and fell on Cloud’s chest.

Instantly, Cloud wrapped his arms around Jacques, carefully supporting his frame.

“Sorry.” Cloud immediately apologized, he doesn’t want the Marquess’ angry again. “I know you don’t like it when I touch you, but, this is different, so don’t be mad.”

The Marquess didn’t say anything, but his body was going limp in Cloud’s embrace.

“You’re not okay.” Cloud whispered over Jacques ear, making Jacques shivers even though he’s not feeling cold at all.

“Come here.” Cloud helped the Marquess to sit on the sofa, his head resting on the back of the seat. “What’s wrong with you?” Cloud asked the Marquess worriedly while softly caressing the Marquess’ hair.

“D-don’t know…” Jacques whispered. “Can’t feel…”

Mahinang napamura si Cloud. Of course! How could he forget that the Marquess couldn’t feel pain? That means he doesn’t know what’s going on in his body!

“Dadalhin kita sa Doctor.” Sabi ni Cloud na kaagad na ikinailing ng Marquess.

“I—I’ll be fine later.” Jacques said in a weak voice. “I’m j-just hungry, I t-think.”

“Hungry?” Nagsalubong ang kilay ni Cloud. “Kailan ka huling kumain?”

“T-two nights ago…”

Nanlaki ang mga mata ni Cloud. ’Yon yong gabi na umalis siya ng bahay! “Why the fuck—”

“I h-hate take outs. I haven’t drink w-water as well. I f-forgot.”

Cloud was angry at the Marquess for not taking good care of himself, but opt not to. Instead, he asked in a soft voice. “What do you want to eat? I’ll cook it for you.”

A smile shadowed on the Marquess lips. “Anything is fine…”

“Okay. Wait here.” Cloud left and went to the kitchen to make an Electrolyte-rich Drink for the Marquess to help him feel a little better and replenish some of his energy.

“Here. Drink this.” Aniya ng makabalik sa salas.

Jacques dutifully drank the drink Cloud made for him and then he went back to leaning on the back of the sofa.

“Rest.” Bilin ni Cloud bago bumalik sa kusina para magluto.

Iyon na siguro ang pinakamabilis na pagluluto ni Cloud sa tanang buhay niya. It was also his first time being impatient. He’s a calm person and he doesn’t get worked up so easily. There’s only one person who could make him worry so much like his, and that’s his boss, the Count. But now, he’s more worried about the Marquess’ than anyone.

Maingat na inilagay ni Cloud ang pagkain sa silver tray saka dinala iyon sa salas. Thankfully, the Marquess looks a little better than before and can now move himself without feeling dizzy. The electrolyte-rich drink helped a lot.

“Kumain ka na, para maging maayos na ang pakiramdam mo.” Aniya ng ilapag ang tray sa center table. “Sige na.”

The Marquess nodded weakly before he started eating silently. Si Cloud naman ay nakaupo sa kaharap nitong sofa at mataman lang na nakatitig sa Marquess.

Looking closely at Lord Jacques, he has dark circle and bags under his eyes.

“Are you having trouble sleeping?” Tanong niya sa Marquess.

Sa halip na sagutin nito ang tanong niya, tiningnan siya nito ng masama. “Whose fucking fault do you think it is?”

Ah, he’s cussing again. Looks like he’s feeling better already.

“Pagkatapos mong kumain, matulog ka.” Aniya.

Jacques just scowled and went back to eating after glaring at Cloud for nearly a minute.

Thinking of cleaning the house while Lord Jacques was eating, Cloud started to stand up, only to hear Lord Jacques’ angry voice.

“Stand up and I’ll throw this fucking fork at you.”

Nabitin sa pagtayo si Cloud at gulat na napatitig sa Marquess. “H-huh?”

Kung nakakamatay lang ang tingin, kanina pa bumulagta si Cloud.

“Sit fucking still until I finish eating.” Wika ni Jacques na iritado pa rin.

Slowly, Cloud sat back while eyeing the Marques in confusion and bewilderment. “I thought you don’t like me…” he whispered.

Jacques’ face darkened even more. “I just told you to fucking move on because I don’t like seeing you in pain even though you’re a shameless bastard. And last time I check, ‘move on’ doesn’t have the same fucking meaning as I hate you, you moron!”

“Mmm…” Cloud hummed before smiling at the Marquess. “Don’t worry, I’ll move on so you won’t feel uncomfortable around me anymore. That’s why I left for a while, I needed to breathe so I can sort my feelings out.”

For some reason, what Cloud said didn’t sit right with Jacques, even though it was what he wanted. Was this because of Dimitri? Was he the reason why Cloud was able decide to move on from him this fast? Was the motherfucking Count right?

“Hey.” It was Dimitri who just entered the Count’s house.

Jacques scowled. Speaking of the devil.

“You’re bored aren’t you?” Natatawang tanong ni Cloud kay Dimitri ng makalapit ito sa salas.

Tumango kaagad si Dimitri saka hinaplos ang tiyan. “Bored and hungry. Cook for me?”

“Sure.” Cloud was fast to answer making Jacques annoyed. “What do you want to eat? I’ll cook it for you.”

Jacques gritted his teeth, his jaw tightening. He was irritated and he was huffing in anger until he becomes livid. Jacques didn’t know why, what he knew was that his anger has something to do with Cloud and Dimitri talking in front of him. And he becomes more livid seeing Cloud being happy with Dimitri.

And here I thought he likes me. What a fucking liar!

Jacques dropped the spoon and fork he was holding on the tray, the loud clang got Cloud and Dimitri’s attention.

“Lord Jacques—”

“I just lose my appetite.” Ani Jacques saka tumayo kahit nanghihina pa, pagkatapos ay binuhat ang tray.

Cloud immediately offered help. “Let me do that—”

“I can fucking manage.” Jacques hissed at Cloud before sauntering towards the kitchen to wash his dishes. But before he could finish the task, Cloud and Dimitri entered the kitchen. So Jacques quickened his movement, so he could leave immediately.“

“My Lord, let me do the dishes.” Pakiusap ni Cloud sa kaniya.

Siguro kung nangyari ito noon, papayag kaagad siya. Because Jacques admits that he likes being taken care of by Cloud, but not today. He’s pissed.

Tahimik na tinapos ni Jacques ang paghuhugas ng pinggan na hindi pinapansin si Cloud, saka tahimik din siyang umalis ng kusina at iniwan ang dalawa.

What was Jacques thinking believing Cloud’s words anyways? Cloud was a womanizer. A philandering bastard. And now that Cloud likes men, what’s stopping him from liking another man? Maybe I was just a passing fancy… someone to practice with since it’s his first time liking a man.

If that was so, then that’s good, right? This was what he wanted, so Cloud wouldn’t be hurt anymore. Cloud’s just giving him what he wants. Then why am I feeling mad and sad?

Jacques’ steps halted while on his way to his room. Yes. Why I am mad anyway? Tanong niya sa sarili habang magkasalubong ang kilay. Bakit galit siya dahil masayang nakikipag-usap si Cloud kay Dimitri.

What’s this feeling of anger and frustration combined? What’s the name of this emotion he’s feeling?

Napasabunot si Jacques sa sariling buhok at gusto niyang ihampas ang ulo sa pinakamalapit na pader. Maybe if he slammed his head really hard, he’ll finally know why he’s feeling like this.

With a grunt, Jacques continued stalking towards his room and he locked himself up inside ’till dinner. Lady SM was still recuperating from her bullet wound and Cloud was not bothering him anymore, while the Count was also busy, so no one notices how he was doing the whole day.

Jacques never felt this sad in his life. Not when his parents forbid him to go out unless its necessary, not when his parents used his insensitivity to pain to do their bidding, not when his mother told him to change and be the kind of son she wants, not when his mother told him he was useless every time an engagement fails, not when he saw pity on Kaius eyes, not when he was told that he’s probably gonna die young because of his condition, not when he finds out that everyone in their house hates him, not when he finds out that people only gets close to him because of his money and title.

None of those things made him feel sad. Just now, and he doesn’t even know why.

But he can’t lash out on Cloud or Dimitri. They didn’t do anything wrong. He has to play nice with them. He has to wipe out this anger and frustration inside him, but how? If Lady SM sees this, because she’s a kind woman, she’ll worry about him, and he doesn’t want to be a bother.

How could he smile at Cloud and Dimitri when he’s fucking feeling miserable because of them for some fucking reason he couldn’t explain and put into words?

Just. Fucking. How?!

Jacques’ phone beeped — startling him and cutting off his thoughts.

When he checked his phone, it was a text from Cloud.

From: Nube

Your dinner’s in the refrigerator. Initin mo nalang kapag gusto mo nang kumain. Sorry I can’t reheat it for you, I’ll be busy tonight. I’m cleaning house with Dimitri. If you get sick again, please visit the Hospital and get your self check. Good night, Lord Jacques.

A wry smile stretched on Jacques’ lips as he dropped his hand that was holding the phone on the bed. “So this is what it feels like to lose your attention, Nube.”

Jacques closed his eyes and let out a long sigh.

It sucks.

CHAPTER 14

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CHAPTER 15

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CHAPTER 16

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CHAPTER 17

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CHAPTER 18

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CHAPTER 19

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CHAPTER 20

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CHAPTER 21

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CHAPTER 22

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CHAPTER 23

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CHAPTER 24

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CHAPTER 25

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CHAPTER 26

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CHAPTER 27

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CHAPTER 28

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CHAPTER 29

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CHAPTER 30

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CHAPTER 31

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CHAPTER 32

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CHAPTER 33

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CHAPTER 34

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CHAPTER 35

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CHAPTER 36

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CHAPTER 37

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CHAPTER 38

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CHAPTER 39

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CHAPTER 40

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CHAPTER 41

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CHAPTER 42

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CHAPTER 43

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CHAPTER 44

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CHAPTER 45

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CHAPTER 46

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CHAPTER 47

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CHAPTER 48

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CHAPTER 49

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CHAPTER 50

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CHAPTER 51

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CHAPTER 52

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CHAPTER 53

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CHAPTER 54

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CHAPTER 55

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CHAPTER 56

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CHAPTER 57

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CHAPTER 58

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CHAPTER 59

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CHAPTER 60

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CHAPTER 61

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CHAPTER 62

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CHAPTER 63

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CHAPTER 64

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EPILOGUE

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JE T’AIME: Para Toda La Vida

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JE T’AIME: A Beautiful Man

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JE T’AIME: Japan

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JE T’AIME: Floating Bed

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JE T’AIME: Coming out

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JE T’AIME: Christmas Special

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JE T’AIME: Christmas Special

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

JE T’AIME: Christmas Special

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

JE T’AIME: Adventures in Santorini 1

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

JE T’AIME: Adventures in Santorini 2

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

JE T’AIME: Adventures in Santorini 3

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

JE T’AIME: Adventures in Santorini 4

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

JE T’AIME: Adventures in Santorini 5

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

JE T’AIME: Adventures in Santorini 6

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

✨ CeCeLib’s 10th Anniversary Event ✨

A decade of storytelling—what a surreal feeling.

Thank you for your unwavering support and love.

Your love for my work has been my inspiration behind every story I’ve shared.

Thank you for being part of this incredible decade journey.

Here’s to many more years of stories and memories.

• C.C -

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Celebrating 10 years of CeCeLib on Wattpad!

Time flies when the reading is good.

Ring in CeCeLib’s 10th birthday with up to 50% OFF most of her popular reads, like the Possessive Series, Mistress of Nature, Amorous Agreement and more.

Check this

reading list

now!

  ![](https://img.wattpad.com/79ef11f8dbe0f527050e9ab63570be2ed3dcc7f3/68747470733a2f2f73332e616d617a6f6e6177732e636f6d2f776174747061642d6d656469612d736572766963652f53746f7279496d6167652f79414939676b54506372646275673d3d2d313434363038333035392e313763663933336436393065323431313630333036363139383635332e6a7067)