LET ME CRY

L E T  ME  C R Y

ME series #3

WARNING SPG

This story contains a lot of grammatical error, typos and sexual scene please bear with me if you decided to read this story of mine.

__

“Why are you looking at me like that? “ tanong niya dahil nakatitig lang ako sa kaniya.

The alcohol loosened my tongue and stripped away whatever pride I had left.

I turned toward him and whispered, “ Do you want to sleep with me tonight, Doc?“

“Reeve ,” he said quietly and lumayo ng kaungi. “ Please. Stop talking like that.“

I laughed.

“ Come on, Kristan. My brother trusts you. “ I touched his chest, my hand trembling over the steady beat of his heart. “ Why don’t you take my virginity? I’m giving you permission.“

His breath caught.

I traced my fingers lower, desperate for distraction, for comfort, for anything that would make the ache inside me disappear.

“Don’t be gentle with me just because I’m drunk,” I whispered. “ I’m letting you to touch me.. I want you..“

The muscles in his jaw tightened.

Then he stood abruptly.

“ Stop it. You’re drunk. I’m taking you home.“

He grabbed my arm.

“ No .“ Panic flashed through me. “ If you don’t want me, I’ll find someone else nalang

to

satisfy me. I’m horny Kristan..“

My words were reckles but I don’t care.

Kristan’s eyes blazed.

“ What the f-ck are you saying that? Nahihibang ka na ba?“

“I ’m sad and horny, Kristan. I want you, pleasee..” ulit ko pa.

Bumuntong hininga siya. Without another word, he pulled me to my feet and guided me toward the exit and weng straightto the parking lot

“Where are you taking me ?” I asked as he opened the passenger door.

“To my place.”

My heart pounded.

“We’re going to do that there? “ masayang saad ko.

He looked at me for a long moment, his expression unreadable.

“Yes..”

The single word sent a shiver through me.

The moment we were inside the car, the heat of the alcohol and the storm inside my chest overwhelmed me.

I turned toward him and kissed him—desperate, trembling, and far more vulnerable than I wanted to admit.

For a second, he kissed me back. His hand slid to my thigh, fingers tightening as though he was fighting himself.

Habang tuloy ang halikan namin naramdaman ko na inadjust niya ang upuan na para mahiga. I don’t know paano pero nahila niya ako palapit sakaniya dahilan para maupo ako sa tap niya sakaniya while facing him.

I slowly slipped off my top, leaving me in nothing but my bra..

Kristan’s eyes darkened the moment his gaze fell on me.

Without breaking eye contact, I took both of his hands and placed them in my boobies, silently telling him that this was what I wanted.

“ D-mn ,“ He breathed against my lips nang umayos siya ng upo.

My voice trembling with anticipation. “ I can’t wait anymore. I wan

t

you now..“

A soft gasp escaped me when I felt his fingers move to the clasp of my bra. In one smooth motion, he unclasped it.

Matagal na tinitinitigan niya ito bago niya pinadaudos ang kaniyang daliri sa nipple ko. He played with it.

I can see his eyes have mixture of hunger and reverence. He cupped me gently, his touch both possessive and tender, making my breath catch in my throat.

A low groan escaped his lips before he lowered his mouth to my skin, kissing me with an intensity that made my entire body tremble. Sobrang baliw na baliw ako sa bawat paglaro ng dila niya.

Every touch, every kiss, felt desperate yet careful—like he wanted to memorize every part of me.

And in that moment, wrapped in his arms and consumed by the way he looked at me, I knew there was no place I would rather be.

His forehead rested against mine, his breathing uneven, as if he had been holding back more than just words. His kisses had been desperate. hungry. Not because he wanted something from me, but because he was trying to pour every unspoken emotion into that single moment.

And when he wrapped me in his arms and pressed gentle kisses along my neck, the tears I had been fighting so hard to contain finally began to fall.

For the first time that night, I felt comfort. I felt peace.

Natigilan siya. Nang marinig niya ang paghikbi ko.

“Shh,” he whispered, brushing the tears from my cheeks with infinite tenderness. “ I’m sorry if I was too rough.“

Napailing- iling ako dahil mukhang natakot siya.

“ No .“ Yung mga luha na ilang taon kong pinigilan, mga luha na matagal kong kinimkim at itinago

“No… Let me cry.”

My fingers tightened around his shirt as I buried my face against his chest. Ang sarap sa feeling na umiyak!

“But I don’t want to see you crying, Reeve..”

“Please, “ I begged between broken breaths. “Please, just let me cry. I’m okay. Please continue..”

And Kristan did the one thing I needed most.

He held me. Not with desire. Not with impatience. But with a quiet, devastating tenderness that shattered every wall I had built around myself.

There, in the quiet silence of his car, with my tears soaking through his shirt and the steady beat of his heart beneath my ear, I finally understood the truth I had been trying so hard to ignore.

Akala ko alcohol was the answer.

Akala ko a few glasses of liquor would be enough to make the pain disappear. Enough to silence the thoughts in my head. Enough to help me forget everything, kahit isang gabi lang.

But I was wrong.

Because more than anything else, what I truly needed wasn’t alcohol.

Ang kailangan ko pala ay isang taong yayakap sa akin habang unti-unti akong nadudurog.

Isang lugar kung saan puwede kong tigilan ang pagpapanggap na kaya ko pa.

Isang balikat na masasandalan.

A safe place where I didn’t have to explain why I was hurting. Where I didn’t need to pretend that everything was okay when it clearly wasn’t.

And somehow, without asking for anything in return, Kristan became exactly that.

He became my safe place tonight

My comfort.

My peace.

Sa mga bisig niya, finally, I allowed myself to break.

Pinayagan ko ang sarili kong ilabas ang lahat ng luha na matagal ko nang kinikimkim.

’Yung mga luha na ilang taon kong pinigilan, tuluyan nang bumuhos.

And surprisingly, ang gaan pala sa pakiramdam.

---

Nyang note

s : Hi, how are you everyone? Finally, series 3 na tayo ng MANDATE OF EROS. Para po hindi malito timeline po nito ay after magpakasal nina Rare and Atarah. Wala pang Paint and Roks dito sa mga unang chapters!

And you don’t need to read other series po para maintindihan ang kwento nito. Pero ofcourse may mga spoiler sa mga unang series. But nasa sainyo pa rin naman guys. Last installment na po ito ng ME series. Please bear with me if may mga errors po. Pa comment nalang po ako. Thank you po. Hope you enjoy this. Iyakan ’to everyone..

Chapter 1

Reeve Cathalia

I JUST CHECKED my removal exam results in my phone, and honestly… I barely passed. It feels like I only made it through by luck. Everything has been so difficult lately, and I’m really struggling to keep up. Being in medical school is so much harder than I ever imagined. The pressure, the expectations, the constant exhaustion and it’s overwhelming.

Grabe, ubos na ubos ka talaga when you enter the medical world.

Right now, I can’t help but feel discouraged. A part of me is questioning everything, like… is this really for me? I know hindi lang ako nag iisa sa mundo na nakakaramdam nito. ’Yung tipong nawawala ka na sa landas. Wala ng spark ang tinatahak na pangarap.

I’ve been thinking about quitting because it feels like no matter how hard I try, it’s never enough. I’m tired, mentally and emotionally, and I don’t even know if I still have the strength to continue pero yeah I have no choice naman.

Kung sakaling gusto kong mag quit. Ano nalang tingin ng pamilya ko saakin?

“ Kuya ..“ nag angat ako ng tingin kay Kuya Rare when He entered his office.

Kanina pa kasi ako naka tambay dito. Madalas ako nag tatambay sa hospital niya sometimes nag assist ako when needed pero hindi pa ako nag t-trabaho. Wala lang baka sakaling bumalik ang spark?

“I’ve heard about your removals exam ?” He didn’t look at me. Inalis niya ang kaniyang white coat and when straight to the water refilling.

Napabuntong hininga ako. Ang removal exam sa medical school is a special, one-time examination taken by students who received a conditional grade like 4. It’s like second chances. Pabagsak ka na pero binigyan ka pa ng chance to pass at makahabol pero kung ’yung second chances na ’yon ay wala pa rin. Wala na talaga. Ligwak ka ma.

Well optional nalang ’to, hindi naman talaga required na mag paganito ang mga instructor pero ’yeah may consciences naman sila..some of them and as much as possible they want us to passed the remaining subjects.

I gulped. “ Yes, and nung nalaman nina Mom and Dad. They freak out. And I think they are disappointed. Ako lang naman ang nag reremovals sa pamilya natin. Napaka bobo..“

Honestly, it’s really true we’re literally a whole family of doctors. As in both sides, Mom’s and Dad’s, halos walang lumihis sa medical field. Parang automatic na siya, like expected na ganon ’yung path namin. Not trying to brag or magbuhat ng bangko, but they’re actually well-known in their own specialties because of their skills, dedication, and pagiging sobrang talino. Like legit, ang gagaling nila to the point na nakakaintimidate na minsan.

And then there’s my brother, Rare—he’s a neurosurgeon, like hello? Brain surgeon level. Tapos imagine, he has around a 99% success rate in his surgeries. As in halos walang palya. People literally trust him with their lives, ganon siya kagaling. Kaya minsan I can’t help but feel the pressure, because how do you even keep up with that kind of standard, diba?

Lumapit siya saakin na salubong ang kilay.

“Reeve, watch your words. You are not stupid, don’t ever call yourself that. You passed the exam, right? That already says a lot about you. Not everything has to be perfect the first time, and one result doesn’t define how capable you are..”

Napayuko nalang ako at napatitig sa sahig.

“Listen, it’s okay to fail sometimes. It’s part of learning, part of growing. What’s not okay is letting that failure convince you to stop trying or to think less of yourself. You’re stronger than that. I’ve seen how hard you study, how much effort you put in even when you’re tired or doubting yourself..”

I bit my lower lips and laughed without a humor. “ Ikaw.. ang mga pinsan natin they are goo—-“ He cut me off. Tinap niya ang ulo ko and ginulo ang buhok.

“ You don’t have to be like anyone else, not even me. You just have to keep showing up and doing your best. I’m proud of you, okay? Always. And I’ll be here for you, no matter what.“

“But it’s tiring, ayoko na ..” tumingin ako sa mata niya.

Bumuntong hininga siya. “ Then what, Reeve? What do you want to do—stop now? This is your last year in med school. Next month, you’re graduating. You’ve come way too far to just walk away because things got hard.

After that, mag-iinternship ka na. You don’t even have to worry about where

. You

can train here in our hospital with me and your Ate Atarah. We’ll guide you, support you, and make sure you don’t go through it alone. Hindi ka namin pababayaan..“

“Ayun nga, ayoko naman ng ganon. Na I’ll be treated special because you’re my brother and I’m a Grison..”

He didn’t respond. He just looked at me with a sad eye.

“And if titigil na ako as if papayag sina Mom and Dad. Gusto ko na nga mag change career, pwede ba maging housewife nalang.” I laughed without a humor.

“I mean, you’re already a nurse. That’s still aligned with what our family does, so if that’s what’s worrying you, you don’t have to overthink it. You’ve already achieved something solid on your own..”

Nursing is my pre-med. And 5 years na ako sa medical school. Mag intership nalang and then proceed to take the board exams.

“Yeah..”

“If you’re really tired, then sige—rest. You can take a break. I’m not forcing you to keep going if you feel drained. And honestly, you don’t have to rush into working right away either. You have time to figure things out at your own pace. And what did you again… may boyfriend ka ba? You never even mentioned anything, and you didn’t introduce him to me. Since when? And anong trabaho niya?”

Napangisi ako. We’re really best friends—hindi lang basta magkapatid, but actual partners in crime. He’s my first best friend, ever since bata pa kami. Super close namin sa isa’t isa, like halos wala kaming hindi napagkukwentuhan and siya lang madalas ang nag t-tyaga na makipag laro saakin when I was a kid because everyone think I’m maldita.

He’s a very protective kuya, minsan nga borderline overprotective, but I know it’s because he genuinely cares. Naalala ko before, he used to be my tutor lagi niya akong tinutulungan sa studies kahit sobrang busy niya lalo na nung nag start na siya sa medical career. And every time may nagagawa akong kalokohan or may kasalanan ako, siya talaga yung unang sumasalo sa’kin. Siya yung nagtatanggol sa’kin or gumagawa ng paraan para hindi ako mapagalitan kina Mom and Dad.

Parang kahit anong mangyari, he always has my back. And hanggang ngayon, ganon pa rin he’s still the same kuya who protects me, supports me, and reminds me that I’m not alone

And I’m happy para sakaniya ngayon. Lalo na dumating si Ate Atarah and Ranch sa buhay niya. He deserved it. They deserved each other.

“You’re so dumb! It’s just an example no. Wala pa nga akong jowa sabi ko sayo hanapan mo ’ko, eh..”

“ Seriously ?“ nakangiwing saad niya.

“Kung hindi mo ba naman tinatakot ang mga maliligaw ko before edi sana I have jowa na rin..”

“I didn’t

,

its just that I don’t think they deserve you. There’s a perfect man for you.“

“Just like Atarah? A perfect woman for you?”

Iniwas niya ang tingin niya and I saw his ears turner red “ Wow! Kinikilig ka pa ha!“

“Stop!”

He clear his throat . “ As your brother, I’ll talk to Mom and Dad about everything that’s been worrying you. I’ve got you, okay? You’re not alone in this. If you really don’t want to continue medicine anymore, that’s okay. No pressure. Follow what your heart truly wants, because if you don’t love what you’re doing, it will be very hard to last in it..“

“ Right, right. Before ako mag decide ng ganiyan I need to save up first. Kailangan kong naging ready dahil alam ko magiging matindi ang galit ng magulang natin kahit sabihin mo pang you’ll talk to them and I don’t want to ask a helpf from you also financially. ’Di ka na kaya ego ko. I’m already 26 I should be independent..“

Napabuntong hininga nalang siya ulit. “ How much is your savings? Kung ayaw mong humingi ng tulong. Pautangin nalang kita. You’ll pay me back..“

“Still no, Ayokong mangutang! I’m still thinking if mag duty na ako dito bahala na kung saan ako itapon..”

“But part-timers aren’t allowed here, Reeve. And I don’t want it to come to a point where other nurses always have to cover your shifts, especially if it affects their rest days. You’re still in med school, and that’s already a heavy load on its own.”

“Heh bahala na, I’ll figure it out. I’ll start looking for a job maybe as a private nurse or a caregiver… I’m not really sure yet. Bahala na talaga!”

Natigil ang usapan namin nang biglang may nag call sa telephone niya.

“Doc! Emergency po sa room 541 kay Doc Kristan.”

Agad namang napatayo si Kuya. And hindi niya na ako tinignan at nagmadaling sinuot muli ang coat niya at lumabas.

Napanguso nalang ako at sinundan siya.

Oh, Ate Atarah’s friend is not in a good state pa rin pala.

Well ilang taon na rin ang nakalipas since nagkaroon ng insidente. He was shot by head. Sobrang gulo ng buhay naman before. May life threatening talaga. Binabantayan niya lang ang pamangkin ko noong araw na ’yon. Pero they were ambushed.

Well, as far as I remember, successful naman yung surgery niya noon. He even went into coma after, and surprisingly, nagising pa rin siya. It really felt like a miracle na he survived it, considering how super low ng survival rate ng ganung klase ng neurosurgery. As in sobrang risky talaga, life-and-death situation.

Pero now that he’s alive, hindi ibig sabihin nun na totally okay na lahat. Kahit nagising siya and even if he seemed stable for years, may mga late effects pa rin na pwedeng lumabas over time. Lalo na sa brain surgery cases, minsan yung complications delayed talaga and hindi agad nakikita.

Like ngayon, nagkaroon siya ng seizure. That can happen for different reasons. One possible cause is scar tissue in the brain na pwedeng maka-affect sa electrical activity. Pero pwede rin other causes like post-traumatic epilepsy, delayed post-op complications, infection, electrolyte imbalance, or even triggers like stress or lack of sleep. Honestly, without knowing his full case, history, and latest imaging, mahirap talaga mag-speculate.

And it’s not like I don’t care about him—it’s just that I’ve been really busy with my own career and responsibilities, so I can’t fully dive into someone else’s case. I can understand it in a general medical sense, pero yung full management talaga, it’s with his treating doctors.

Sumilip ako sa pintuan. Kuya Kristan looks tired. Nakasama ko na si Kuya Kristan before pero hindi ko naman siya close talaga.

Napabuntong hininga ako. Iniwas ko nalang tingin ko. I’m so amazed how calm my Kuya is. Pakiramdam ko if Im in the siuation mas mabilis pa rin ako magpanic. Well seizure lang naman ang nangyayati sakaniya pero I’m afraid pa rin na baka anytime lumabas pa ang ibang epekto ng sakit niya.

Naglakad na lang ako palabas and I texted my kuya na I’ll be off muna. It was around 6PM in the evening when I went back to my condo. Pagpasok ko, naabutan ko si Paige—my friend, my roommate, siya ’yung ka-share ko sa condo.

And she was crying. As in I immediately noticed it the moment I saw her. She wasn’t even trying to hide it, her shoulders were shaking and she looked like she had been holding it in for a while.

“Why are you crying na naman? Everyday nalang ’yan ha!” linapitan ko siya and nag cross arms sa harap niya.

“Siste

r

, I can’t na! Hindi ko na kaya..“ lumakas ang iyak niya kaya naman umupo ako sa tabi niya at tinatap ang likod niya.

“Ang alin ang hindi mo kaya?”

“About my studies. Hindi ko na kaya Reeve. I don’t want to continue this medicine. Ubos na ubos na ako..”

Pareho kaming last year nalang sa meds school. Classmate kami since college. She’s my one and only bestfriend.

I remember sabay pa kami excited to enter medical school when we graduated and ngayon sabay kami nakaramdam na wala nang spark ang hinahabol-habol naming pangarap.

Napabuntong ako hininga ako. “ G-graduate na tayo oh! Malapit na, ngayon ka pa ba susuko?“

Oh, how Ironic. Parang ganito lang din ang sinabi ni Kuya saakin kanina. But eto ako pinapasa ang mensage sa iba and hindi ma apply sa sarili.

Well, I’m the type of person kasi who keeps everything inside, especially when I know na maaapektuhan yung ibang tao. I’d rather carry it on my own than let them worry about me. That’s why I’m always the one encouraging others, cheering them up, being strong for them.

Pero when it comes to myself… I can’t do the same. Ang hirap i-apply yung advice ko sa sarili ko. It’s like I know what to say, I know what should be done, but I just can’t seem to lift myself up the same way I do for everyone else.

“I’m not happy. I always feel exhausted. Dati ’di ba kahit nakakapagod okay lang masaya ako sa ginagawa ko. Now eto ayoko na.. Ngayon ko na rerelize lahat.. Ubos na ubos na ako.. No spark na sister..”

I felt her.

I didn’t know what to say at first, because honestly… I feel the same way. Next month, graduation na rin namin, pero instead of feeling excited, parang wala—no spark, no joy. Parang tuyong-tuyo na kami, drained from everything we’ve been through.

I looked at her, trying to find the right words kahit ang bigat din sa loob ko.

“ Then do what you want ,“ I finally said softly. “ Kung saan ka sasaya. You’re free naman, Paige. You can always choose your happiness.“

Even as I said it, I knew… I was also talking to myself.

“I’ve talked my parents about it, and they agree naman. Sabi ko mag graduate lang ako and I’ll stop na muna and will focusing on myself muna…”

Napangisi ako, but deep inside, ang bigat pa rin. I just hope ganon din mag-isip si Mom and Dad. I know they won’t get mad to the point na they’ll disown me or forget me as family… but I also know they’ll be disappointed. And that kind of disappointment? That’s what scares me more.

Baka umabot pa sa point na people will start talking like I changed paths, na hindi ko tinuloy. And I know our family, both Dad’s and Mom’s side… there will always be comments. Mga side remarks, subtle comparisons, expectations na hindi ko na-meet. Kahit hindi direkta, mararamdaman mo.

And honestly… I’m afraid to disappoint them. I want to be perfect, like my kuya, like my cousins ’yung tipong walang mali, someone they can proudly talk about. But somewhere along the way, I feel like I’m losing the reason why I even wanted this dream in the first place.

I’m scared of being compared. I’m scared of being seen as “less.” I’m scared that they’ll look at me differently… and maybe worse, I might start seeing myself that way too.

“Then ayun pala you have a plan na pala ..” I laughed.

“Ikaw ba? Are you still happy with what we are doing? Masaya ka pa ba sa mundo ng medisina?”

“All I can say is pagod na ako but do I have a choice?”

“ Ree ..“ napalabi siya.

“What’s with that face? Anong akala mo iiyak ako? No way!

“

“I’m just curious..Sa ilang taon natin magkasama. Bestfriend kita ng ilang taon Ree. Even in our college days. You didn’t even cry no? Or hindi ko lang talaga nakikita? Kapag nag d-dramahan tayo, nag cramming, stress sa acads lahat umiiyak na ikaw hindi pa?”

I laughed “ And so? Masama ba?“

Sinamaan niya ako ng tingin habang pinupunasan ang ilong niya. “ Tss, so maldita talaga! Bigla ko lang na realize. When your grand mother died. Ni hindi ka naman umiyak non, eh. Tapos hindi pa talaga kita nakita umiyak ever since! Fake friend hindi mo pinapakita saakin ang tunay mong kulay!“

I just smirked. “Hindi ba pwedeng because I’m strong?”

“No! You are just maldita and very cold with everyone! Hehe except to me because you love me.. your pretty bff!”

I don’t know bakit everyone’s first impression to me is maldita and cold. To be honest I’m not friendly. I mean ’yung ma socialize na tao. Hindi rin ako madalas makipag hangout kapag trip ko lang talaga.

And yeah I’m the type of person who just doesn’t cry. Even when I was a baby, sabi nila I barely cried—like once lang, and that was when the doctor had to make me cry. Growing up, kahit madapa ako, get hurt, get scolded, or even fail in school… nothing. Even with drama, heartbreak, or stress. I jusy don’t cry.

Iyon din kasi ang nakasanayan ko. Pakiramdman ko noong bata ko kapag iiyak ako ay papagalitan ako.

It’s not like I don’t feel anything. I feel everything, heavy emotions, anger, frustration, disappointment. Sometimes even too much. Yung tipong you know you’re supposed to cry already… but nothing comes out. I can’t force myself. It’s like everything just stays inside.

I only cried again, during Kuya’s wedding. That was the first time since I was a kid that I actually cried.

Well… he’s my brother. My first best friend. I saw everything—the sacrifices nilang dalawa ni Ate Atarah, everything they went through to get there. And in that moment, I realized… I can cry.

But after that? Wala na ulit. I haven’t cried since. Parang it only happened once, then I went back to being like this again. And honestly… I don’t even know if that’s a good thing or something I should be worried about.

---

DAYS HAD passed, and I was extremely stressed with all the requirements for graduation. I was literally catching up on everything, rushing deadlines one after another, and at the same time juggling a lot of practical exams.

It felt like everything was piling up all at once—no time to breathe, no time to even process what I was feeling. Parang survival mode na lang ako, just trying to get through each day and finish whatever I can.

“Reeve! Let’s goo na kasi..”

Salubong ang kilay ko habang nagsasalin ng fresh milk sa baso. Kanina niya pa kasi ako ginugulo to hangout. I bet mag p-party siya and I’m not in the mood to join her. Lalo na’t may mga inaaral pa ako.

“Ayoko nga, Paige.”

“Sige na po, PLEASE!”

“Naghahabol nga ako ng nga requirments.”

Napasapo ako sa noo ko nang mag lumpasay na siya sa sahig. “ Kahit tonight lang, wala kasi me kasama. Last lang naman! We need a rest too! Kahit ngayon gabi. Wala namang pasok tommorow because holiday..“

“Who said it’s holiday ?” pinanliitan ko siya ng mata.

Agad siyang tumayo and malaking ngiti na pinakita ang calendar saakin.

“Labor day!”

I rolled my eyes and checked my phone. I Tinignan ko medical school namin and yes there’s no class nga tommorow.

“If you told me earlier that it was Labor Day, kanina pa sana tayo umalis! At hindi nag aral!”

Seriously? 9pm na. And kaninang umaga pa ako nag aaral ng mga cases dito dahil akala ko may klase bukas.

She’s right naman kasi, I know need ko rin muna huminga. Mag saya! Baka I need to interact with other people na muna para kung sakali mag karoon ng spark muli ang buhay ko.

“I’ll drive ha! Wear something cool but hot, Okay?” saad niyaz

“Where are we going ba?”

“Speedway..” Kilig na kilig na saad niya.

The speedway is a racing track, and it’s insanely popular. It’s not just about the races, there’s also a bar area, so a lot of people hang out here even when there’s no event. The place is always alive, loud, and full of energy. Betting is also a big thing here, which makes everything even more intense.

“Huh? Sa racing track sa Alkolo? Bakit tayo pupunta there, aber? Kailan ka pa nahilig sa racing?”

“Today lang because of my new suitor!”

Oh, this girl. Kaka break niya lang sa 3 years boyfriend niya last month. Kaya walang tigil sa kakaiyak ’to last month—as in everyday! Naging in-patient pa dahil dehydrated na.

And look now, she’s smiling and I’m happy naman naman na She’s happy too. I hope mag work ito.

Nag prepare na kami. I went for something that feels effortless but still turns heads. I’m wearing a fitted crop top that hugs just right, paired with low-rise cargos that give off that chill but confident vibe. I threw on an oversized leather jacket for that cool, slightly rebellious edge like I belong here.

My hair’s in a high ponytail, swaying every time I move, catching the energy of the place. Everything’s in dark tones black with a hint of silver so I blend into the night, but still stand out when the lights hit.

“Wow petty chix! Do you want to find a boyfriend there? Daming pogi do’n!”

Sa totoo lang marami na nareto ’tong si Pahina saakin. Hindi naman ako inosente o sobrang walang alam sa pakikipag landian. I do it sometimes when I’m bored but I’m still a virgin.

Halos usap and dates lang talaga ang ganap and after that hindi naman mag wo-work and most of the time I’m the problem.

“Mabango naman ba?”

“Yes, masarap pa!”

“Yuck! ’Di ko sinabing ti

kman mo na

!“  She just laughed.

Siya na ang nag drive papunta ng speedway and natulog nalang ako sa byahe. I woke up nalang when I felt na Paige is tapping me.

“Gising na, Reeree!”

Inayos ko muna ang sarili ko and nag retouch ng kaunti.

I smirked the moment I stepped in and noticed na halos lahat naka-black na parang may dress code na hindi ko alam. Paige was right, though ang daming pretty girls, like effortlessly stunning, and ang dami ring cool guys na mukhang straight out of a magazine. The whole place felt sosyal, loud with music and laughter, tapos may halo pang expensive perfume and confidence in the air. No maasim people here huh.

Napatingin ako sa paligid and I started recognizing a few faces—some I’ve seen at past parties, others from university events, and a few familiar names from the business world.

“So where is He ?” I asked her na halos ako mahilo sakaniya kakaikot while looking at her phone.

“Wait, He’s not replying!”

Nagtataka ko siyang tinignan. “ Baka poser pala ’yan ha! How did you met him ba? Nakita mo na ba ’yan?“

“So OA! Ofcourse, nag date na kami nito no ang naghalikan na nga, eh!”

“What the actual f-ck?! Baka you did taste him na rin ha? Is He clean naman?

“Bro, He’s a virgin..” humalakhak siya.

“Shut up! Ang ingay mo! Nasaan ba ’yan?”

Natigil kami sa paguusap nang biglang may nag paputok na hudyat na simula na nang racing.

“Ayan na pala mag start na! “ hinila niya na ako papasok hanggang sa makapunta na kami sa bench.

Umupo kami sa pinaka harap and we are lucky kasi may mga upuan pa.

“Saan siya d’yan ?” nag simula na ang race kaya sobrang bilis ng mga sasakyan ni hindi ko na nga makita ang mga kulay nila sa sobrang bilis.

“Ayun oh! ’Yung naka black na Koenigsegg Gemera!”

“I can’t see naman. Masyado mabilis. Ano ba ito tournament? May event ba?”

Umiling siya. “I don’t know eh. Most likely ata ay pustahan ’to. Nakwento nga saakin ni Derick naa—”

“Derick, Who?”

“ Yung bebe ko nga ngayon. Na kwento niya malaki ang madalas na pustahan dito minimum na ata ang half a million. Meron pa nga raw pinupusta share sa company hahaha. “

Nanood na ako before ng racing pero tournament ’yun. And this is one, mukhang pustahan nga. So sugalan ’to. Napailing-ilibg nalang ako. Well I’m open minded naman.

Pinanood ko nalang and I can’t appreciate it kasi talagang ambibilis ng mga sasakyan. Gusto ko may thrill ’yung tipong may maaksidente.

Natawa nalang ako sa sarili kong iniisip kaya tinapik ako ni Paige. “ Huy, tumatawa ka mag isa girl..“

Umirap nalang ako at luminga-linga and saw na may mga stall of foods. “ I’m hungry..I’ll buy some foods na muna. May gusto ka?“

“Hmm, cucumber lemonade lang. Or any drinks if wala talaga.”

“Alright, stay here and don’t keep wandering off! Baka you end up running onto the track the moment you spot your Derick boy.”

“So OA!”

Inirapan ko siya at naglakad na papunta sa mga stall of food. Super laki ng racing track na ’to. Medyo malayo ang pagitan ng food stall sa ka track kaya it took me 10 minutes to walk pa.

In this side there’s a lot of different street food. And doon sa left side naman may area din sila ng restaurant, coffee shops and there’s a club din.

I’m not in the mood to eat heavy meal so I prefer these street foods. I saw stall who’s selling kani salad kaya kumuha ako non.

“Hello po, one kani salad please with chicken.”

“450, Maam.”

Agad akong nag abot ng bayad. “ Balikan ko ha, will check some foods lang..“

Naka kita ako ng stall ng shawarma. Paige like this so I order din tig isa kami. I bought popcorn too.

“ Hi. .“ agad akong nag angat sa lalaking hunarang sa daan ko. He’s so tall like 6 ft I think. Look like a chinese guy.

“Yes?”

“If you don’t mind can I get your instagram? I find you pretty..”

I smiled. I’m used to this kind of approach. Well sometimes I entertain them especially if type ko talaga but most of the time I turn them down.

“I’m not active in instagram, Mister..” I smiled sweetly at naglakad na palayo sakaniya saka tumingin na sa mga nasa stall.

“Oh well, your imessage then? I’m Pron by the way..”

Nag stop ako maglakad. At nakipag kamay. “Hmm, I’m Rea. Nice meeting you, Pron. I don’t have Imessage because I’m using android

phone.l

“Hmm, can I have your number then?”

I smiled. “ Sure ..“ agad kong inilahad ang palad ko and He gave me his phone. Agad naman ako nagtipa ng number na hinula ko lang.

“I bet Kristan will win again. Hindi na talaga natuto

’

tong si Calyx..“ napatingin ako sa lalaking dumating at bumili ng drink sa kabilang stall dahil pamilyar ang name.

Pero malabo naman na si Kuya Kristan ang tinutukoy nila. Sadyang I’m being nosy lang.

“How much is the pusta ba?” The girl asked beside him.

“Half M yata as far I know…”

“Oh, Caly

x

is f-ck up again..“

“Cute name, Rea! Nice meeting you. I sent you a message pala..” saad ng guy sa harap ko.

Napatingin ako sa phone ko kunwari chinecheck ang message niya. “ Oh, I received na..“

“Are you free ba tonight? Wanna grab some coffee or maybe alcohol?”

Hindi ko siya marinig nang ayos dahil biglang nagsigawan ang lahat.

“What?”

“If you are free?”

Napatingin nalang ako kung saan nakatuon ang atensyon ng nagsisigawan. Mukhang may nanalo na sa first lap.

“I gotta go now. Just text me nalang. I’m with my friend kasi..” hindi ko na siya hinintay na magsalita pa at nagpunta ako sa binilhan kong stall kanina to get my salad saka naglakad papunta sa pwesto namin ni Paige.

She’s there patalon-talon while shouting. “Tapos na? “

“No, first lap palang.”

“Sino panalo? ’Yung bebe mo ba?”

“No, pang third lang. Pero okay lang 1 lap palang naman. May next pa! Dear, okay lang puntahan ko siya. Or you wanna join?” nagpuppy eyes pa siya.

“Nasaan ba siya ?” tanong ko habang palinga-linga sa paligid. My eyes scanned the entire race venue, from the rows of modified cars to the crowd of screaming spectators.

The air was thick with the smell of burnt rubber, gasoline, and beer. Neon lights reflected against the polished hoods of expensive sports cars, and the deafening roar of engines made me amazed.

Napatigil ako.

My breath caught in my throat when I saw a familiar figure stepping out of a sleek black sports car.

It can’t be…

I blinked several times, hoping my eyes were just playing tricks on me.

But no.

That broad shoulders, that confident stride, that annoyingly perfect face—even from a distance, there was no way I could mistake him.

“ Paige ,“ I said, grabbing her arm so hard she almost spilled her drink. “ May nakikita ka bang familiar?“

She squinted toward the VIP area. Then her eyes widened dramatically.

“ Oh, where—Holy dear! Is that Doc Kristan?“ Napahawak siya sa dibdib niya na parang aatakihin sa kilig. “ Oh my God, he’s so hot! I thought the name sounded familiar. Kanina pa siya pinag-uusapan ng mga tao dito!“

Siya rin ba ’yung tinutukoy kanina?

“No… how come ?” gulong-gulo kong bulong. “ Nahospital pa lang si Doc last time, ah?“

Paige tilted her head. “ Or baka naman look-alike lang?“

“Or maybe kamag-anak ?” dagdag ko. “ Kambal?“

“Nonsense,” Paige said with matching arte flip of her hair. “ As far as I know, Doc Kristan is an only child.“

Hindi ako agad nakasagot.

I just stood there and stared.

Doc Kristan leaned casually against his car, looking completely healthy—as if he hadn’t been confined in a hospital bed just days ago. He was wearing a black racing jacket partially unzipped, exposing a fitted white shirt underneath. His hair was slightly messy, like he had just removed his helmet, and his sleeves were rolled up enough to reveal his veiny forearms.

Why do men always look unnecessarily attractive while doing absolutely suspicious things?

Napakunot lalo ang noo ko when someone handed him a can of beer.

And then I saw it.

He smiled that same devastating smile that could probably make nurses forget their duties and lifted the can in a casual toast before taking a long drink as if he didn’t have a care in the world.

My jaw dropped. Grabe? Talagang siya ba ’to? Umiinom siya ng alak? Nakikipag race?

“No, Paige,” I said, already marching forward before my brain could stop me. “ It’s really him. Puntahan ko.“

“Wait! Don’t leave me here !” Paige hissed, scrambling after me in her heels.

“Go to your boyf na muna! I’ll deal with this one.”

I didn’t know exactly why, but my irritation shot straight to the ceiling.

Sa hospital namin siya. Pasyente siya ng Kuya ko. He was supposed to be recovering.

And yet here he was, standing in the middle of an illegal-looking street race, drinking beer, smiling like a movie star, and acting as if being recently hospitalized was just a minor inconvenience.

What the hell was he doing here?

And more importantly…

Why did he look so damn good while breaking every medical advice imaginable? No joke. Ang cool niya talaga..

Halos mahilo-hilo ako dahil hindi ko mahanap ang pintuan ng pababa ng race track. Sinundan ko siya ng tingin dahil baka mawala sa paningin ko.

Hindi rin nagtagal at na-figure out ko kung saan ang entrance papunta sa VIP area. Without wasting another second, halos patakbo akong dumaan sa nagkukumpulan na tao. I didn’t care about the deafening roar of engines, the smell of burnt rubber, or the curious stares of people around me.

I only had one target in mind.

Doc Kristan.

“ Doc!“ sigaw ko habang papalapit. “ Why are you here?“

He stopped in the middle of his conversation with the other men and turned toward me. His eyes narrowed in surprise, as if he couldn’t believe I was standing in front of him.

“ Reeve ?“

“YES, KUYA DOC !” sagot ko, parehong naniningkit ang mga mata. “ Why are you here?“

He crossed his arms over his chest and raised one eyebrow.

“You should be asking yourself the same question. What are you doing here?”

“Oohhh…”

“Is that his girlfriend?”

“Doc, you’ve been hiding her from us!”

Napatingin ako sa mga kasama niya. All of them were grinning like they had just discovered the most entertaining thing of the night. Napakagat ako sa labi ko nang mapansing nasa amin na ang lahat ng atensyon.

Without another word, I grabbed his hand and pulled him away from the group.

“Come with me.”

I dragged him to a quieter corner, away from his nosy friends and their shameless teasing.

“Dito ka nga, Kuya ,” sabi ko, crossing my arms. “ Shouldn’t you be in the hospital? Does Kuya Rare know you’re here?“

He leaned against the railing.

“Why would I need anyone’s permission? “ he said with a shrug . “I don’t even ask my parents for permission.”

“Bro, are you serious ?” halos sumabog ako sa frustration. “ You’re a doctor. You know exactly how dangerous this is. You were hospitalized just a few days ago!“

He placed a hand dramatically over his chest and looked around.

“A doctor? Me?” He gave me an innocent look. “ I’m afraid you have the wrong person.“

Huh? Anong ibig sabihin niya doon?

“Kuya!”

He gently removed my hand from his arm.

“Go home and study, Reeve ,” he said firmly. “I don’t think this is the right place for you.”

Then he turned his back on me as if the conversation was over.

My jaw dropped.

“ Kuya !“

Hindi siya lumingon.

“Isusumbong kita!”

That made him stop.

He glanced over his shoulder, a slow, teasing smile appearing on his lips.

“I’ll tell your brother first ,” he said. “ Instead of reviewing for your exams, you’re here.“

He stepped closer, lowering his voice.

“So tell me… who did you come here for?”

One eyebrow lifted.

“Huwag mo ’ko baliktarin. I can do what ever I want dahil wala akong sakit. At hindi ako pasyente. .” nangigil na saad ko.

Umigting ang panga niya at parang nag iba ang mga mata dahil sa sinabi ko. Tinalikuran niya muli ako at nag lakad siya papunta sa kasama

“Babae mo ’yan Laspiatio?”

“Hindi, Kuya raw eh. Baka kapatid.”

“Only child ’yan tanga.”

“Pinsan?”

“Stop it. .” rinig kong saad ni Doc Kristan and bakas sa boses niya ang matinding pagkairita.

“ Kristannnnn

babe

.“

Bago pa ako tuluyang makalapit sa kanya, may isang babae ang biglang lumapit kay Doc Kristan. Looks it’s his girlfriend.

Tall, stunning, and effortlessly confident.

She was wearing a fitted black dress that hugged her figure perfectly, her long wavy hair cascading over one shoulder. With a familiarity that immediately irritated me, she casually placed her hand on Doc Kristan’s shoulder and leaned in close to whisper something in his ear.

And the worst part?

He didn’t even look back at me.

Not once.

Parang bigla na lang akong naging invisible. Oh well, ang weirdo rin ng girlfriend niya? Why would She allowed Kuya Kristan to be like this kung alam niyang may sakit ito?

Napairap ako at mariing pinigilan ang sariling huwag gumawa ng eksena. With a dramatic turn, tinalikuran ko sila at mabilis na naglakad palayo, my boots clicking angrily against the pavement.

Sobrang naiinis ako. As in sobra. Sayang lang ang effort ni Kuya Rare. All those sleepless nights, all the concern, all the medical advice, all the effort to make sure he recovered properly—para saan?

Para lang magpunta rito?

To flirt with women.

To drink beer.

And to join an illegal race as if he were completely invincible.

Who knows what else this reckless man has been doing? Maybe that’s exactly why he looked so weak lately. Baka kung anu-anong sakit pa ang napupulot niya.

He was unbelievably annoying.

And what frustrated me the most was that he was clearly trying to destroy himself after everyone had worked so hard to help him get better.

If he wanted to throw his life away, then fine.

Bahala siya. But that didn’t stop me from feeling furious. And worried. And, if I were being completely honest, a little hurt. Ang hirap hirap maging Doctor tapos may ganito kapang pasyente? And it’s a Doctor itself pa?

I shook my head and forced myself to focus on something else. Hinagilap ng mga mata ko si Paige sa nagkukumpulang tao, hoping to vent all my frustrations to her dramatic self.

But she was nowhere to be found.

My brows furrowed.

“Paige ?” tawag ko, standing on tiptoe to scan the crowd.

Wala.

I immediately grabbed my phone and called her.

No answer.

I frowned.

“ Great ,“ bulong ko, irritation rising all over again.

As if this night wasn’t chaotic enough, nawawala pa ang kasama ko.

Naglakad-lakad nalang ako para magpalamig ng ulo. I’ll call Paige nalang again later baka nakikipag bebe time pa.

I gritted my teeth as I stared down at the grass, trying to calm myself. My mind was still boiling from what I had just seen.

“Hey, Rea! You didn’t answer my question earlier. Wanna hang out tonight?”

Halos mapatalon ako sa gulat nang may biglang humawak sa braso ko.

“What the—?!”

Napaharap ako at nakita ko ang lalaking kanina pang kulit nang kulit sa akin sa food stall area.

He immediately raised both hands in surrender.

“Oh, sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you,” he said with a sheepish grin. “ Kanina pa kita hinahanap. Hindi ko kasi masyadong narinig ’yung sinabi mo earlier.“

I took a deep breath and bit my lower lip, forcing myself to stay calm.

Okay, Reeve. Be nice.

For now.

“ Oh ,“ I said, flashing him my sweetest smile. “ What was your name again?“

His grin widened.

“ Pron.“

I nodded slowly.

“Okay, Pron .” I folded my arms and maintained my polite smile. “ I’m not available tonight. I’m here with someone, so your offer is officially rejected. And you know what that means, right?“

He smirked as if he found my rejection amusing.

“Damn, why not ?” he asked, taking one step closer. “ Sino ba kasama mo? Maybe I know them.“

I forced a tight smile.

“Trust me, you don’t know her.” My tone turned colder. “ So please, I’m not interested. Leave me alone.“

Oh my God. Such a creep.

Instead of backing off, he chuckled.

“Oh, spicy.”

My eye twitched.

“You know what ?” I said, my patience officially gone. “I said f-ck off.”

I turned on my boots and started walking away.

“ Teka !“

When I heard his footsteps rushing after me, I broke into a run.

“ Seriously ?!“ bulong ko, weaving through the crowd in my heels. “ Why are men like this?“

I didn’t dare look back. All I knew was that he was still chasing after me. And because tonight clearly wasn’t chaotic enough—

BAM

!

I crashed straight into a group of girls.

“ Oops!“

“Watch out!”

“What the f-ck are you’re doing!”

“Aray!”

One girl nearly dropped her drink, another stumbled backward, and all of them turned to glare at me.

I froze, horrified.

“Oh my gosh! I’m so sorry!” sabi ko agad, raising both hands in apology.

My chest was heaving, my hair was a mess, and my dignity had officially left the building.

“Hey, watch out! What’s your problem ?!” sigaw ng isa sa kanila, halatang iritado na iritado na. Kitang-kita sa mukha nila na parang ready makipag-away, and honestly… mukhang war freak nga sila.

“Hindi ’to playground para maglaro ha!”

Napaatras ako ng kaunti, trying to explain.

“ Oh, I’m sorry. Someone is chasing me kasi. I didn’t mean to—“

Hindi ko na natapos yung sasabihin ko.

“Holy crap!”

Bigla niyang inihagis sa direction ko ang lata ng San Mig na may laman pa.

“Aray—!”

Tumama ito sa gilid ng mukha ko, dahilan para mapangiwi ako sa sakit at bigla akong mapahawak doon. My cheek stung instantly.

“ What the hell?!“ I hissed, my voice shaking but controlled.

“O h, it slipped on my hands …” she said casually, like it was nothing.

My jaw tightened. I could feel my temper rising again. Hindi ako mahilig sa gulo… pero sobra na ’to.

I looked at them, breathing heavily, trying not to escalate things further. My hand slowly curled into a fist—but I stopped myself.

Instead, I stepped back and grabbed my phone from my pocket with shaking hands.

“You know what ?” mahinahon kong sabi, kahit nanginginig na sa inis ang boses ko. “I don’t have time for this.”

I took a deep breath. “ Pero yeah gusto niyo diba?“

Hinanap ng mata ko ang isang babae na hawak ang muntik niyang matapon na drink. Hinablot ko ito and hindi siya maka react at agad ko rin itong itinapon sa mukha ng nag tapon ng san mig saakin.

“What the f-ck!”

And as expected, sa isang iglap ay sumugod ang tatlong babae ang pinagtulungan ako.

“

Hoy tigilan niyo ’yan!

“ rinig ko ng inaawat sila ng mga tao.

“Omg, film it guys!”

“Pigilan niyo siya!”

“You b-tch! Ang tapang mo pa when in fact ikaw ang nauna !” sigaw ng babae habang mas lalong lumalapit sa’kin.

“ STOP !“

Hindi ako umatras. Hindi ako iiyak. I refuse.

Syempre, hindi ako nagpapatalo. Kumapit ako sa buhok niya at gumanti rin ng sabunot. My vision blurred a little from the pain, pero mas nangingibabaw pa rin yung inis ko.

No, kahit ano pang mangyari—kahit patayin nila ako—hindi nila ako mapapaiyak.

“ BITAW !“ sigaw ko habang pilit kong inaalis yung kamay nila sa buhok ko.

Nagkakagulo na kami, halos wala na akong makita kundi nagkikiskisang galit at sigawan. Until—Biglang may humila sa’kin pataas.

Nabitawan nila ako, at isang babae ang napaatras dahil sa lakas ng tulak ng dumating.

Natigilan ako.

My breathing hitched.

That grip on my arm—firm, steady, familiar.

“Reeve…”

I looked up.

And there he was.

Doc Kristan.

Hair slightly messy, jaw clenched, eyes sharp like I had never seen before.

“ Kristan …“ I whispered, almost in disbelief.

The girls froze for a second.

Kristan didn’t even look at them. His eyes stayed on me for a second—checking if I was okay, if I was hurt. Then his expression darkened.

“You’ll pay for this ,” he said coldly to the girls, his voice low but dangerous.

My breath caught. Not at me. At them.

“Let’s go, Reeve.”

Before I could protest, hinila niya ako palayo. His hand stayed firm on my wrist as he guided me through the crowd, until the noise of the race, the shouting, and the chaos slowly faded behind us.

We went to parking lot. He opened the passenger door of a car and gently but firmly—pushed me inside.

“Bitawan mo ’ko! “ I snapped, still fired up. “ Gaganti ako! “

He shut the door halfway, leaning slightly in.

“ Gaganti? “ he repeated, incredulous. “ How exactly are you going to get revenge? There were three of them. Three. And you were alone.“

“I’m not a kid !” I shot back. “ Sila ang nauna!“

He exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair.

“Ano ba kasing ginagawa mo sa lugar na ’to?” he asked, voice rising now. “ You don’t belong here!“

My eyes narrowed instantly.

“Eh sino bang belong dito ?” I fired back. “ Ikaw ?“

Silence.

And then he looked at me.

Umigting ang panga niya. “ Let me see your—f-ck!“ i ritadong saad niya at lumabas ng kotse.

He moved quickly, like he already knew exactly what to do. From the trunk, he pulled out a first aid kit—as if chaos like this was something he dealt with regularly.

Lumapit siya saakin. Hinawak ang mukha ko. And sinisipat ito

I touched my cheek too, only then fully noticing the small cut. It wasn’t deep, but it stung enough to keep reminding me it was there.

“It’s not deep ,” sabi ni Doc Kristan habang maingat niyang nililinis ang sugat ko. “ You don’t need stitches.“

His voice was calmer now. Low. Controlled. Pero may bigat na hindi ko ma-explain.

I stayed still. Too still. Because suddenly, sobrang lapit niya.

I could smell faint perfume mixed with faint alcohol and the metallic scent of the race night. His hair was tied back, exposing more of his face—sharp jawline, high nose bridge, chinito eyes that looked even darker up close. Mestizo features softened by the way his expression shifted when he focused.

And for a second, I forgot to be angry.

He carefully dabbed the antiseptic on my cheek. His fingers were steady, practiced. Not rushed. Not careless. Parang kahit sa gitna ng kaguluhan, he still had full control of himself.

“Ihahatid na kita, “ he said after a moment, still not looking away from my wound.

I blinked. Whoah, grabe ang bilis ng tibok ng puso oo.

“ Huh? Tapos na ba race mo?“

His jaw tightened slightly.

“Do you really think I can continue anything knowing you’re hurt?” he replied, voice low but firm.

I scoffed.

“You don’t need to do that. Hindi mo naman ako kaano-ano. We’re not close.”

That made him pause. He finally looked at me.

Directly.

“ But you kept calling me ‘Kuya,’ didn’t you ?“ he said, almost teasing—but not quite.

“Eh, for formality lang !” I shot back.

“Then stop calling me Kuya ,” he said flatly. “ Like you said—we’re not related. And we’re not close.“

My lips parted.

“…Fine. Doc Kristan.”

A faint exhale left him. “ We’re not in the hospital. So drop that too.“

“Okay, Kristan!”

“Good.”

I grabbed my bag from the car door, suddenly annoyed again.

“Okay, baba na ako. Because—”

“ I’ll drive you home ,“ he cut in immediately. “Tell me where. To your brother’s house?”

I glared at him.

“If you won’t tell me, I’ll take you to my condo.”

My eyes widened.

“ What? Why would you do that? Type mo ba ako?“

That finally got a reaction out of him.

He leaned back slightly, letting out a short, amused breath.

“ Oh, kid, “ he said, shaking his head.

“ Kid? !“ kumapit ako sakaniya. “ Maka-kid ka dyan! I’m not that young. I’m

26

!“

His eyes scanned me briefly—like he was weighing that information.

Then, without hesitation—

“Still a kid.”

That did it.

My patience snapped.

Before I could think properly, I stepped forward, I sat while facing him. And I felt it..

I grabbed the front of his shirt, and pulled him down slightly. I grinned slowly and I felt him hardned.

And I kissed him. No hesitation. No warning.

Just pure impulse. When I pulled back, I looked him straight in the eye.

“I told you,” I said softly, breath uneven. “ I’m not a kid.“

I reached for the door lock, clicked it open, and immediately slipped out of the car. “P wede na akong maging nanay ng anak mo, so stop calling me kid..”

Taas-noo akong lumabas, ignoring the way my heart was suddenly beating way too fast.

Behind me, I didn’t look back.

But I knew. I left him stunned.

Chapter 2

Reeve Cathalia

I WAS AT THE LIBRARY, reviewing for my practical exams later. Last exam na lang ito, plus my thesis, and then I’m finally done. After years of sleepless nights, mountains of transes, impossible exams, and enough caffeine to damage my liver, I was only a few steps away from internship.

“How’s the guy last night?”

Napatingin ako sa dalawang babae sa kabilang table. Kahit nasa library kami, wala silang pakialam kung gaano sila kaingay.

“Oh, 8 out of 10, “ sagot ng isa, as if she were reviewing a restaurant. “ Okay naman. Four inches, but ang taba naman.”

Nangiwi ako. Seriously? Of all the places to discuss penis size, they chose the library. Talagang ganito na ba walang kahihiyan ang peoples?

I lowered my eyes back to my notes, trying to focus on the brachial plexus in front of me, but my concentration had already packed. Nakakainis naman! Minsan na nga lang makapag focus may storbo pa.

To be fair, I wasn’t exactly innocent. Contrary to what most people thought, I wasn’t some sheltered, conservative girl who blushed every time someone mentioned sex.

I knew things. I understood things. I had my moments of curiosity too. I’d explored enough to know my own body, but not enough to make it a habit. Lalo na ngayon na halos wala na akong oras huminga sa sobrang busy, much less entertain my hormones.

I flirted. I teased. And yes, I knew exactly what effect I had on people A lot of men had asked me out. Some were straightforward. Some wanted relationships. Some wanted something casual. And some were shameless enough to skip straight to the part where they invited me to bed.

But I always said no.

Not because I was prudish. Not because I was naïve. And definitely not because I lacked desire. The truth was much simpler.

I was scared.

Takot ako sa sakit.

Takot ako sa consequences.

Takot ako sa possibility that I might give something away before I was truly ready.

I remember even my first boyfriend when I was in senior high school. Inaaya ako to do it but yeah I’m not ready. Takot po ako sa magiging kahihitnan no’n. He said it would bring us closer. He said everyone was doing it. He said he loved me But love, at least to me, was never enough reason to surrender something I still wasn’t prepared to give. Masyado pa akong bata! Minor ako non!

Then college happened. And suddenly, romance became an elective I had no time to take. Between exams, clinical duties, research, and endless deadlines, flirting became a luxury and relationships became impractical.

My world revolved around anatomy, medicines, and survival. But if I were being completely honest. There were nights when I wondered what it would feel like. Magkajowa talaga and then you guys will do it.

Syempre no! Tao pa rin ako. Babae pa rin. Sadyang kulang lang sa social life.

“Ilan na ba ang body count mo?”

“15..”

“That’s a lot..”

Napairap ako. I bet she’s sick!

Nagligpit na ako ng gamit dahil baka makarinig pa ako ng hindi pa karapat-dapat. I went to cafeteria and waited nalang ng oras doon.

And nang dumating na ang oras ng exam ay agad ako nag tungo sa building namin. I took a deep breath before entering the practical examination room.

This was it.

The last hurdle.

Well, almost.

After this, all I had left was my thesis, and then I would finally be free—free from endless lectures, sleepless nights, and the constant fear of failing.

Then internship.

The thought alone made my stomach twist.

Moving exam ang practicals namin, which meant iikot kami from one station to another. At bawat ilang minuto, iisa lang ang salitang kinatatakutan ng lahat.

“Move.”

At sa tuwing naririnig ko ’yon, pakiramdam ko tumataas agad ang blood pressure ko at hindi na ako makahinga. Every 1 minute lang ang pagsagot.

One station after another.

Identify this.

Explain that.

Demonstrate the procedure.

Interpret the findings.

Pakiramdam ko pinipiga ang utak ko. And no joke! Sobrang hirap talaga niya. Pagkatapos ng exam, parang iniwan ng kaluluwa ko ang katawan ko. Mental, emotional, at physical exhaustion all at once.

Kaya ginawa ko ang natural na ginagawa ng isang pagod na medical student. I went to a coffee shop and eat there until  6pm. Then after ay dumaretso ako sa AKG Hospital.

Oddly enough, the hospital felt more relaxing than school. The familiar scent of antiseptic, the sound of monitors, and the steady movement of doctors and nurses somehow gave me comfort.

As for what happened with Doc Kristan last night?

Hindi ko na sinabi kay Kuya Rare.

Bahala siya sa buhay niya.

Kung gusto niyang uminom, makipagkarera, at tuluyang patayin ang sarili niya despite everything my brother did for him, then that was his problem.

At least, iyon ang paulit-ulit kong sinasabi sa sarili ko.

Diretso akong pumunta sa office ni Kuya Rare para magpahinga sandali. Pero wala siya roon.

Chineck ko ang clipboard sa mesa niya.

OR.

Of course.

Napabuntong-hininga ako. Inihagis ko ang bag ko sa couch, umupo sa swivel chair, at iniikot ito nang isang beses bago kumuha ng libro sa mesa niya.

I was just beginning to read when the office door opened.

“Hey, Rare. Good morning.”

Napatigil ako. That voice is so deep, calm,  familliar at nakakairita.

Tumayo ang balahibo ko nang marinig ko ang sumunod niyang sinabi.

“I just want to talk to you about your sister.”

Unti-unting sumilay ang ngiti sa labi ko.

Dahan-dahan kong inikot ang swivel chair hanggang sa tuluyan ko siyang kaharap.

“ What about me, Kristan ?“ nakangisi kong saad.

The moment our eyes met, kitang-kita ko ang gulat sa mukha niya.

“Oh, f-ck.”

Lalong lumawak ang ngiti ko. Nang mapahampas siya sa noo niya.

“What about me, Doc? “ ulit ko, sweet na sweet ang tono.

He stared at me for a moment, as if debating whether he should turn around and leave.

“What are you doing here, brat?”

I placed the book on the table and crossed my arms.

“Huh? Why? Am I not allowed here ?” I tilted my head innocently. “ This is my brother’s hospital.“

Tumayo ako at dahan-dahang lumapit sa kanya.

“Oh, ikaw?” dagdag ko, may halong pang-aasar sa boses ko. “ Why are you here? Masama na ba ulit ang pakiramdam mo?“

Nakita ko ang pag-igting ng panga niya.

And for some reason, seeing the ever-composed Doc Kristan visibly unsettled was the most satisfying thing I had experienced all day.

“Masama because of me? Sumakit ba ang puson mo?”

“D-mn, how come your mouth is this dirty?”

I laughed without a humor.  “ Why are you here ba kasi, Kristan?“ I asked, folding my arms across my chest as I met his gaze.

“What exactly are you planning to tell my brother? That I grind myself against you? That I kissed you ?” I let out a bitter laugh and took a step closer, my voice dropping to a dangerous whisper.

“Do you really think hindi ka suntukin non?”

Kristan’s jaw tightened, his eyes darkening with something between anger and wounded pride.

Lumapit ako sakaniya and He just watching me. 

“One day, Reeve, “ he said quietly, his voice edged with warning, “ May araw ka ring bata ka.”

I threw my head back and laughed as though his words meant nothing to me.

Then I turned and walked away.

But beneath my mocking smile, humiliation burned through me like fire. Every step felt heavier than the last. Parang gusto ko na mag pakain sa lupa dahil ang lakas ng loob ko!

What the hell? Naiimagine ko palang ang pinagagawa ko sakaniya last time. Ayoko na.

Before I could disappear down the hallway, I nearly collided with a familiar figure. Si Atarah with her nursing uniform.

“Hi, Ate!” I said, forcing brightness into my voice.

“ Reeveeeee !“ Ate Ath smiled warmly, looping her arm through mine.

“You’re leaving already? They said you just arrived pa! Come on, let’s all have dinner together. Tapos na surgery ng Kuya mo. May kinakausap lang.”

“Actually, I—”

Her eyes shifted past me and landed on Kristan.

“Oh, Tantan, you’re here too. “ Her expression turned teasingly concerned. “ Are you here for a follow-up check-up? Or are you feeling unwell again?”

I glanced over my shoulder.

Kristan slipped his hands into his pockets, his face unreadable.

“ No ,“ he said smoothly, though his eyes never left mine. “ I’m perfectly fine. I just wanted to talk to Rare.“

The way he said my brother’s name sent a ripple of unease through me.

“Okay!” Ate Ath clapped her hands together. “Then you should stay and join us for dinner.”

“ Sure ,“ Kristan replied, his lips curving into a slow smile.

A smile meant only for me. My heart stumbled traitorously in my chest. As if naman ako ang dapat kabahan? Eh saaming dalawa siya ang pasyente at pasaway!

“I should really go, Ate—”

“What? Why? “ she interrupted, tightening her grip on my arm. “ My lakad ka pa ba?” tumingin siya sa wrist watch niya.

Before I could invent an excuse, Kristan spoke.

“I don’t think she wants to dine with us.”

His voice was calm, but there was a deliberate edge to it. Napakagat ako sa labi at sinulyapan siya ng matalim.

“She’s at that age, isn’t she? Young people always seem to live in worlds of their own.”

I turned to him sharply, narrowing my eyes.

“What do you mean by ‘young people,’ Doc ? Sino ba ang tinutukoy mo?” I challenged.

Makasabing bata ako. Kala mo talaga sobrang bata ko? I’m 26 years old. And far I know nasa 30-31 lang siya. Kasing edad lang ni Kuya!

Kristan tilted his head, amusement flickering in his dark eyes.

“ You ,“ Kristan said, his eyes never leaving mine. The single word rolled off his tongue with infuriating certainty, as though he already knew exactly how this would end.

He turned to Ate Ath and offered her a charming smile.

“ Ath, it looks like she has somewhere to be. Let’s not disturb her.“ His tone was light, but there was unmistakable intent beneath it.  Wow talaga naman! Gumaganti ang bwiset na ’to.

“Besides, Rare and I need to discuss something she shouldn’t be part of.”

My eyebrows shot up.

“And how, exactly, did you know I had plans? Ayaw mo lang siguro ako kasama, Kuya Kristan,” madiin kong usal. Then I lifted my chin and met Kristan’s gaze directly.

“Uh, Are you guys okay ?” awkward na tanong ni Ate Ath.

“Yes, Ate. I’m joining you.”

Then the corner of Kristan mouth curved into that devastating smile.

“Are you now?” he asked softly.

I stepped closer until only inches separated us.

“If you think you can exclude me from a conversation involving my own brother, nagkakamali ka..” I said sweetly.

“Hindi naman kayo nag aaway, di ba?” napatingin ako kay Ate na salit salit ang tingin saamin.

“No!”

“Ofcourse not, Ate!” sabay naming defense.

Ate Ath clapped her hands, blissfully unaware of the tension crackling between us.

“Perfect! Then it’s settled. We’re all having dinner together.”

Kristan straightened, but his gaze remained locked on mine.

“Wait a second, Ate. I just need to use the restroom.”

Ate Ath tilted her head. “ Why not use the one in your brother’s office? There’s a restroom naman there.“

My eyes drifted to Kristan, and I shot him a withering glare.

“I left something in the restroom kasi ate, I’ll just go back and get it.”

“All right, “ Ate Ath said with a warm smile. “We’ll wait for you in your brother’s office.”

The moment they disappeared down the corridor, I spun on my heel and marched straight to the ladies’ room.

Kailangan kong magpaganda! I want to look fresh because we’re with someone na hindi ko naman close.

I stood before the mirror, smoothing my hair, retouching my lip gloss, and doing everything in my power to look unaffected. By the time I was satisfied na sa pag aayos ko. Inabot din ng thirty minutes.

Finally, I made my way to my brother’s office.

“Ready to go ?” I asked brightly as I stepped inside.

The moment I saw Kuya Rare, I run to him and kissed his cheek.

He smiled, studying me with amused eyes. “You look unusually fresh today. Wasn’t your exam stressful?”

“I always look fresh, Kuya! Parang ngayon mo lang nakita !” sambit ko with matching dramatic roll of my eyes pa.

Ate Ath burst into laughter.

“Not really! “ pangaasar ni Kuya.

“Tama na ’yan pang aasar mo sa kapatid mo! Come on,” Ate Atarah said, looping bee arm through my brother’s.

“I found the perfect restaurant for all of us.”

Rare picked up his keys and turned to me. “ Did you bring your car?“

“Yes, Kuya.”

“Good. Just follow us.”

Napatingin ako kay Kristan. Nakatingin lang ito saakin and inirapan ko lang siya. Napailing iling nalang ito at sumunod saamin.

We all headed down to the parking lot, I reached into my bag for my keys.

Pag unlock ko sa car ko ay bigla kong na notice na flat ang tire ko.

“What the?!”

I glanced toward my brother and the others, who were already standing several spaces away.

Before panic could fully set in, a deep, maddeningly familiar voice sounded beside me.

“I suppose that means you’ll be riding with me.”

I turned slowly.

Kristan stood leaning against his car, one hand in his pocket, his expression far too pleased with himself.

“Ay, f-ck!” gulat na sigaw ko.

Great. Magkatabi pa pala ang sasakyan namin.

“Oh, kid, “ he interrupted, opening the passenger door with exaggerated courtesy,

“Watch your language.” His lips curved into a smug, irresistible smile.

I stared at him in disbelief. Talagang natutuwa din siya sa pangaasar saakin ha! I don’t know na may side na ganito si Kristan well ngayon ko lang naman siya nakaka interact ng ganito. Usually he’s quiet, and kung nakikipag biruan lang ay kay Ate Ath and Ate Mikee.

And judging by the way he looked at me—as though he already knew exactly how this night would unfold.

“Siguro! Binutas mo ’to no!”

He looked at me with disbelieving. “ What the? Why would I do that? I’m not that petty, Reeve.“

I stomped my foot in frustration, glaring at the flat tire as though sheer irritation might somehow fix it.

“Bakit kasi ngayon pa !”  I snapped. “ I swear, I’m cursed. And I’m pretty sure you’re the bad luck here!“

Sinamaan ko ng tingin si Kristan. He leaned casually against his car, maddeningly composed as always.

“Stop talking ,” he said, his lips twitching with amusement. “ Just come with me.“

I crossed my arms. “ Excuse me? NO WAY! Why would I ride with you when I can go with my brother?“

He arched a brow.

“Storbo ka lang sakanila. Nag baby time sila..”

Napangiwi ako sa term na ginamit niya. Before I could protest, he extended his hand.

“Come on. I’ll call someone to take care of your tire. Give me your keys.”

Napabuntong hininga nalang ako dahil ayoko na makipag argue at baka humaba pa ang usapan at maubos ang oras namin. I dropped the keys into his palm. His fingers closed around them, warm and steady.

Then he stepped closer—far too close.

The air between us shifted, thick with something electric.

A strand of hair slipped across my face, and before I could brush it away, Kristan tucked it gently behind my ear. His fingertips lingered against my skin for one dangerous heartbeat.

“Brush your hair next time..”

To mask the sudden flutter in my chest, I tilted my head and forced a smirk. “ Ang feeling mo!“

Sumulyap ako sa sa sakyan niya ngayon. Naka ford everest 2025 siya ngayon.

“Why do you have so many different cars, anyway? Do they change depending on whatever personality you’re pretending to have? Kapag sa hospital pa good boy ang sasakyan pero kapag nasa labas sportcar?”

He didn’t answer at pinagbuksan lang ako pintuan. Kaya napairap nalang ako at sumakay sa loob ng sasakyan niya at nag seatbelt

Pinaandar niya na ang sasakyan papunta kina Kuya. He rolled down the window beside him dahil naghihintay sina Kuya.

“Reeve’s tire is flat. I’ll drive her.”

Kuya Rare nodded without suspicion. “ All right.“

The moment we pulled away ay agad akong nagtanong sakaniya. “ What exactly are you planning to tell my brother?“

Kristan kept his eyes on the road.

“Why are you so curious?” he asked. “ Are you scared?“

Natawa naman ako.

“Me? Between the two of us, you’re the one who should be worried. What do you think Ate Atarah would feel? Dissapointed?  Baka nga itakwil ka no’n. Dahil they did everything to save you, pero ikaw naman kung umakto na para bang pinapatay mo ang sarili mo..”

Rather than answer, he smoothly changed the subject. Wow, napaka bastos!

“What were you doing there?” he asked. “ I don’t usually see you in places like that. Were you on a date?“

“ And what if I was? May problema ba? Are you going to report me to my brother? “ I folded my arms. “ Oh no, his twenty-six-year-old sister has a boyfriend. What a scandal .“

His jaw tightened.

“Then where was he ? When those women surrounded you, why didn’t he protect you?”

The teasing vanished from his voice, replaced by something unexpectedly fierce.

“You were hurt, Reeve. May sugat ka,” mariin na saad niya.

I looked away and rolled my eyes to hide how much that affected me.

“I’m fine naman. What happened to those girls, anyway? Did you know them?”

“ No ,“ he said. “ But

I made sure they paid for what they did.“

I narrowed my eyes.

“What did you do?”

“I had them banned.”

I stared at him.

“That’s it?”

A faint smile touched his lips.

“I also charged them for the damages and spoke directly to their parents. They are lucky that I don’t hit girls..”

I gasped dramatically. Wow, gano’n talaga karami ang time nito para makipag usap pa sa parents huh?

“Where’s the money? Give it to me.”

“ It was donated to the AKG Foundation,“ he replied. “ And I don’t think you need it.“

I barked out a laugh.

“I’m poor as hell, Kristan. Barely surviving na nga lang ako sa meds school. Nararamdaman ko na ang hirap ng buhay!”

For the first time that evening, his expression softened.

“ Why ?“

“You know how hard it is. I’m not like you and my brother. Brilliant. Naturally gifted.”

He glanced at me, his eyes unusually gentle.

“You’re already a graduating student from medical school, right?

“ Sana ,“ I muttered. “ At this point, I’m not even sure din kung ga-graduate ba ako.“

His voice was firm.

“You can do it, Reeve.”

The sincerity in his tone caught me off guard. To hide my embarrassment, I shifted the conversation. Bakit ko ba kasi inoopen saknaiya ang ganito bagay?

“What about you? Since when did you start racing? Were you doing it back in college?”

“ No ,“ he said. “ It’s more recent. I’m too busy in studying. I can’t even do sports back then..“

“How recent ?” I asked. “ You seem pretty famous. Kahit saan name mo ang naririnig ko doon sa speedway.“

He remained silent.

I studied his profile, then asked casually, “ May tanong ako about your girlfriend? How does she feel about you racing?“

He frowned na para bang what the f-ck I’m saying.

“Girlfriend?”

“The woman clinging to you at the speedway.”

A short laugh escaped him.

“I honestly don’t remember that. And for the record, I don’t have a girlfriend.”

Iniwas ko ang tingin and I looked at the window.

“Oh. So she’s just one of your women. That explains why you don’t remember.”

“ What?“

“Nothing.”

Napatingin muli ako sakaniya. His mouth curved.

“You still haven’t answered my question about your boyfriend?”

I huffed.

“Because there isn’t one. I was with a friend—a girl. We only went because her new boyfriend is one of the racer. I forgot the name ehh.”

His expression hardened.

“Next time, don’t go there alone. There are a lot of dangerous people.”

I snorted.

“And yet you’re there all the time. Does that make you one of the dangerous ones too, Doc Kristan? “ sarkastiko kong saad.

He smirked. “ Shut up, kid.“

I turned toward him, grinning wickedly.

“You call me that a lot .” I leaned back in my seat and crossed my legs.

“Do you miss me grinding against you? Imagine how often you’d say ‘kid’ if we weren’t wearing any clothes that time? Baka mabaliw ka non?”

Napatigil bigla ang sasakyan dahil bigla siya nag preno sa gilid ng daan

“What the hell?” I cursed.

Kristan turned to me, his expression somewhere between shock and temptation.

“Why do you always say things like that?”

I lifted an innocent brow. “ Like what ba? Ang OA mo!“

“Your mouth talks a lot of dirty things. Ganyan ka ba talaga?” Hindi makapaniwalang saad nito.

“Me? Dirty-minded? Or are you just turned on?”

His eyes darkened.

“ Reeve ,“ he warned, his voice low and strained, “ Stop, that’s not funny.“

I burst into laughter. He exhaled sharply and shook his head.

“You really are this liberated huh.”

I smirked.

“But I’m still a virgin.”

I let the words hang in the air for dramatic effect before adding with a grin— “ Just kidding.“

Pero totoo naman na I’m virgin kaso kasi mukhang hindi niya nagustuhan ang sinabi ko parang sasabog na siya sa galit

“You share far too much. And that’s not fine!”

By the time he restarted the car, the tension between us was almost unbearable.

Neither of us spoke again.

And not long after, we arrived at the restaurant both pretending that nothing had happened, while the air between us still burned with everything we refused to say.

“What happened, Reeve?” salubong ni Ate Ath saakin.

“Na flat car ko, Ate..”

“Don’t worry, I called someone na Ath to fix that..” rinig kong sambit ni Kristan na nasa likod ko

“Oh, okay that’s nice of youuu, bestie!”

I glanced at my brother, who was already watching me with that familiar, unreadable expression. Without another word, pumasok na silang dalawa ni Ate Atarah sa loob.

Hindi ako sumunod agad and sumulyap muli kay Kristan.

“I won’t tell anyone about what happened at the speedway.”

His eyes met mine for a fleeting second—dark, guarded, and carrying far more emotion than he ever allowed himself to reveal.

Napangisi ako at naglakad na sa loob ng restaurant. The moment we stepped inside, I was struck by the elegant interior and the enticing aroma of freshly prepared food in other table.

“Wow, Ate ,” I said, looking around in admiration. “ The food looks amazing.“

“Of course it does. Hahaha actually kasi it my sister’s restaurant, after all. Consider this my shameless promotion.”

We all laughed and settled into our seats.

Habang nakatingin ako sa menu. More steak, pasta, salad, seafood ang inoffer nito, curiosity got the better of me.

“I wonder ,” I said, glancing toward Kristan before turning to my brother, Rare. “ Does Kuya Kristan have any dietary restrictions?“

Napatingin ako kay Kristan na umiigting na ang panga. Ofcourse, I’ll call him Kuya infront of them. Baka akalain pa nila na we’re close enough because I’m calling him by his first name.

Kuya Rare folded his hands together, his tone instantly shifting into that calm, professional voice he used when discussing his patients.

“There are no absolute dietary prohibitions ,” he explained, “ but I strongly advise him to avoid anything that may lower his seizure threshold particularly alcohol.“

I turned back to Kristan, raising an eyebrow.

“Do you still drink?” See bawal sakaniya ang alcohol pero kung uminom ng alak sa speedway parang uhaw na uhaw.

Before he could answer, Ate Atarah cut in sharply.

“No. He doesn’t. And he’s not allowed to. If he did drink alcohol, our friendship is over na talaga!”

Friendship over pala huh. As far I remember, Kristan used to be Kuya Rare’s rival with Ate Atarah. And who knows baka may feelings pa ’tong lalaking ’to kay Ate?

I burst into laughter. Kaya nagtatakang tumingin sina Ate and Kuya saakin.

Kristan’s jaw tightened as he looked at me.

“Of course no t,” he said coolly. “ Why would I drink alcohol?“

Mas lalo akong natawa.

“ What’s so funny, Reeve ?“ Kuya Rare asked, irritation creeping into his voice.

I bit back a grin. “ I just remembered something.“

Kristan leaned closer, his voice lower.

“What exactly did you remember?”

“Oh, please, “ I said, waving them off. “ You’re all far too nosy.”

Nag order na kami. And when our food arrived soon after, and conversation drifted naturally between them medical cases, hospital stories, and updates about the foundation they were working on. So far, wala naman siyang inopen up about me.

Ang sinasabi niya kaya niya gusto makausap si Kuya ay dahil sa AKG foundation. About the money that he’s donating.

I listened quietly, half in awe and half in exhaustion. In eenjoy ko nalang din ang food ko. And na notice naman ni Ate Atarah ang pagiging tahimik ko.

“Are you all right, Reeve?”

Napatingin naman ang dalawang boys saakin.

“Yes, Ate.”

“How are your studies going?”

I groaned dramatically. “ Oh Ate, I’m dying na.“

She laughed. “ Mahirap talaga, no?“

“Honestly, I’m considering na mag drop out and becoming a housewife nalang eh.”

“ Same !“ she declared.

Rare immediately turned to her. “ You know you don’t have to work, baby. How many time did I tell you that,“ mariin na sambit niya. Bakas sa boses niya ang pagiging defensive.

She rolled her eyes. “ I’m

just

joking. I love what I do. Huwag kang OA!“

I rested my chin on my hand and sighed dreamily.

“I want a boyfriend na nga, Ate. Papabuntis nalang ako ata ako then start a family, and live happily ever after.”

Kuya Rate nearly choked on his water.

“What did you just say?” iritadong tanong ni Kuya.

“ Nothing.“

My sister hid her laughter. “ Isn’t Sizer is courting you?“

Napanguso ako. Sizer is a good looking guy. Mestiso and kulay abo pa ang eyes. No joke, gwapo talaga siya aakalain mo rin na international model just like Kuya Roks.

“We’re just friends.”

Rare’s brows drew together. “ Sizer? Roks’s brother?“

Napakunot ang noo ko. “ Yes. And before you ask, no, there’s nothing going on.“

“Since when did you two become friends?”

We met multiple times na rin. Sa wedding nina Ate and Kuya Rare and some party pero hindi naman kami super close. Nag meet lang ulit kami sa school dahil may investigation sila.

I shrugged. “ When they visited the medical school. Nakita niya ako, I’m a familiar face and He asked things. They were investigating something. Most of what we study involves corpses ’di ba? Halos donation ’yon ng mga funenaria kapag walang nag c-claim ng body.“

“What happened then? Paano nasabi ng Ate mo na Sizer is courting you?”

“ Secret ,“ I added with a teasing smile. Privacy .“

My sister laughed softly.

“ Rare, Reeve is a grown woman. Don’t tell me pagbabawalan mo pa siya magka boyfriend?“

“I’m not ,” he said, exhaling heavily. “ It’s just…“

“She’s still your baby sister?”

Rare nodded. “ And some men can’t be trusted.“

I tilted my head. “ So should I only date someone you personally approve of?“

Then, with deliberate mischief, I turned to Kristan. Kanina pa siya tahimik at parang pinakarimdaman lang ang kwentuhan namin.

“What about you, Kuya Kristan? Would you like me to be your girlfriend?”

Rare sputtered in disbelief. “ Reeve !“

His lips curving into a subtle smile. “You failed to mention that your sister is remarkably talkative, Rare. Ang akala ko tahimik ang batang ’to?”

Nangitngit ang ngipin ko dahil tinawag niya na namana kong bata.

“She’s so talkative and annoying. If you guys know sobrang maldita rin “ Rare corrected.

“Hmm, no wonder ..” nakangising saad ni Kristan.

“ Kuya !“ saway ko sakaniya but He just laughed.

“In fact, I’m considering assigning your case to Reeve so she can study it. If it were up to me, I’d skip her internship entirely and make her your personal physician. And you, Reeve. Pwede mong maging personal professor si Kristan. He can teach you things.”

Ate Atarah eyes lit up. “ Uy! That’s actually not a bad idea. Lalo na Reeve nag rank 3 ’to sa board exam. You could complete your internship while caring for Kristan. Ano ba Reeve, are you thinking about specializing in Neurology?“

“I’m not sure yet.”

Actually kung para sa utak ang specialization ko aya baka mas lalo akong hindi pumasa do’n. Dagdag residency pa. Sobrang mahirap ang maging surgeon and neurologist. Well, yeah halos sa fam ko ganon ang specialization and I don’t think mapapabilang ako sakanila.

Personally kasi, gusto ko mag Pedia tapos minsan OB or Derma naman. I don’t know talaga. Nalilito pa ako. Ni hindin ko nga sure kung papasa ako!

“ Well, “ she said warmly, “ If you do, magandang experience din ’yung case talaga ni Kristan.“

Then she turned toward him.

“What do you think, Tantan?”

He did not answer immediately. Instead, he looked at me.

“I have no objection. “ His voice was low and deliberate. “It would be good for her to learn.”

Napairap nalang ako. Kung alam ko lang sana na hindi niya sinasayang ang pag aalaga sakaniya nina Ate Atarah ay papayag pa ako.

Pero may matutunan ba talaga ako sakaniya kung napipigilan ang progress ng paggaling niya dahil sa kalokohan niya?

He’s killing himself slowly. I don’t think deserved pa niyang alagaan.

“Eh, ayoko ng pasaway na pasyente.”

A slow smile spread across his face. “ I’m not pasaway.“

He leaned slightly closer, his gaze never leaving mine.

“Mabait naman ’yan. If ever pasaway isumbong mo agad saakin. Think about it, Reeve , It’s a good experience for you. You’ll guide him and He’ll guide you too..” saad ni Ate Atarah.

---

AFTER KONG mangaling from the university ay dumaretso muna ako sa isang park na walang masyadong tao para mag lakad lakad. And nang dumilim na ay umuwi na ako sa bahay.

The final grades had been posted that morning, along with the official list of graduating students.

Masaya ang lahat. The campus was alive with celebration. Laughter echoed through the hallways, families embraced one another, and classmates posed for photographs with tears of joy shining in their eyes. Everywhere I looked, people were celebrating the culmination of years of sacrifice and relentless effort.

Pero hindi ako kasali doon. Hindi ako makakapag celebrate. Ni hindi ko magawang maging masaya for my classmates and blockmate.

Even now, the dean’s words continued to reverberate in my mind, each syllable striking with the force of a hammer against my chest.

Nagpunta pa ako sa office nila to check my grade. And to compute it baka sakaling may mali lang pero wala eh. Nakatadhana na siya for me. Bagsak talaga ako.

“Unfortunately, Miss Grison, you are not qualified to graduate. We did everything we could to make adjustments. Your family has contributed greatly to this institution, and for that, we are deeply grateful. We truly tried to help in every way possible. But rules are rules.

It would be unfair to the other students who worked tirelessly—students who sacrificed countless sleepless nights, endured tremendous pressure, and gave everything they had simply to earn the right to stand on that stage and receive their diploma. I know you tried your best too pero mahirap talaga..“

And hindi lang ’yon. Napagsabihan ako ng Dean namin dahil sa kumakalat na video ko sa speedway. Sobrang trending niya ngayon sa social media. And the bad thing there is sobrang cut ng video. Ako ang nagmukhang masama. Ako ang nauna at nag simula ng gulo don sa video.

Wala ako sa sarili ngayon. Mabigat ang dibdib ko, I tried my self na magpalamig kanina nung pumunta ako ng park pero wala mabigat pa rin ang nararamdaman ko. Ang nakakinis pa ay hindi ako naiiyak. Walang emosyon akong maipakita.

Bakit ngayon last year ko na sa medical school pa ako na delay? I know pwede pa ako humabol pero gusot na ang reputation ng family ko and alam kong kamumuhian nila ako.

Umuwi ako ng bahay, because I know they all know. Alam kong may contact sila sa institution to monitor my performance

Pagpasok ko palang ng bahay ay ramdam ko na ang bigat ng tensyon. I saw Mom and Dad in the living room pero wala si Kuya.

I know, mabubogbog ako sa mga masamang salita ngayon. Lalo na wala si Kuya na magtatangol saakin. While si Dad, yes pagtatanggol niya naman ako pero I don’t know lang ngayon because I know they are both disappointed.

“What is this, Reeve Cathalia?”

My mother’s voice trembled as she thrust her phone toward me. On the screen was the now-viral video the one that had spread across social media like wildfire.

Her eyes, usually warm and composed, were filled with a mixture of disbelief, anger, and profound disappointment.

“Is this really you?” she demanded . “Is this the reason you keep failing in medical school? Because you’ve been skipping classes and wasting your time?”

My mother was not usually like this. As much as possible pinapalagpas niya ang mga kasalanan ko. Magsasalita and magagalit siya but after that we good na.

This time, she had reached her limit.

I clenched my fists.

“Can’t you see the video ?” I shot back.

“I’m the victim here. They edited it. ’Yung  footage ay naka cut. I wasn’t the one who started it. I accidentally bumped into them, and everything escalated after that. Sila ang nauna! Binato nila ako. Can’t you see that ayan may scar pa rin ako up until now! I’m just hiding it with a concealer!” tinuro ko ang mukha ko.

But my explanation only seemed to deepen her frustration. Napatingin ako kay Dad, nakaupo lang siya sa couch and tahimik. Hindi ko mabasa ang expression niya.

“In the first place, why were you there?”

Her voice rose, each word sharper than the last.

“ Why not? I’m just wat hing the race!“ sagot ko pabalik

“Have I ever forbidden you from going out? From clubbing? From dating? From having sex? “ she asked bluntly. “ Hindi ko kayo pinigilan sa ganyan! Basta alam niyo ang ginagawa niyo! Alam niyo ang limitation niyo!”

She pressed a hand against her chest, struggling to steady herself.

“The only thing I have ever asked of you is to finish your studies and take your future seriously.  I was never strict with you, Reeve. At kahit sa Kuya mo! I trusted you guys! Kung nag struggle ka na studies mo? Bakit kailangan mo pang pumunta sa lugar na ’yon para makipag away lang? Ha? Kung nagawa mo ’yon I bet hindi lang ’yan ang unang beses!”

May kinuha siyang folder. She opened it threw several documents onto the table. And nanlaki ang mga mata ko dahil research ko ’yon!

“I reviewed your research paper myself. And if I were your professor, I would have failed you too.”

Bawat salita na binabato ni Mom ay sobrang bigat. Sapul na sapul ako.

“Your examination scores. Your practicals. Your clinical evaluations. Why are your results like this? Hindi magiging ganito ang result kung nag aaral ka ng mabuti!”

Her voice cracked.

“I already spoke with your Dean.”

The room seemed to grow colder. Wow, talagang naka usap na nila? Naunahan pa akong iinform sila?

“And unfortunately ,” she continued, her words now painfully measured, “ You failed. Hindi ka g-graduate, Reeve Cathalia! Huling taon mo na ’to? Pero why?“

I stopped breathing. Sumulyap muli ako kay Dad na tahimik pero kita na sa mukha niya ng dissapointment. We’re family of the doctor ang sikat ang family naman sa medical field. Bawat isa saamin may kilalala ang pangalan dahil sa kagalingan nila.

My mother’s eyes glistened with tears, though her expression remained firm.

“This is a tremendous embarrassment, Reeve. Nakakahiya! What happened to you? You were never like this. When you first entered medical school, you were focused. Determined. So what changed? What is the real problem? Bakit kung kailan huling taon mo na ay ganito ka?!”

I swallowed hard, my throat suddenly too tight to speak. They never ask me if I’m okay. I’m barely surviving too noong nag s-start palang ako ng unang taon ko sa med school.

They didn’t ask me if I’m okay.

“ How did you know I didn’t pass?“

“The school called us ,” she said quietly. “They explained your results and the decision of the academic committee. They followed the rules, and you cannot be granted any exceptions.”

Then she looked directly into my eyes.

“And even if they were willing to bend those rules, I would not allow it,” biglang saad naman ni Dad.

Nagsalita na siya and alam ko this time hindi niya ako ipag tatangol. Kitang kita ko na anb sobrang dissapointment sa mukha niya.

“Because I don’t think you deserve it, Reeve, “ pahabol pa ni Dad.

“I don’t know what to do ,” Mom whispered. “This will spread everywhere! Malalaman ng lahat! Na my daughter is failed! And hindi g-graduate because She’s a warfreak!”

The sentence hung in the air like a final verdict. And for the first time that day, the weight of everything became unbearable.

“Now na, I failed. Anong gagawin niyo? Papalayasin ako? Kasi kahiya hiya ako? ’Yun ba ang gusto mong sabihin, Mom?!” sigaw ko pabalik dahil hindi ko na kinakaya ang huli niyang sinaabi.

My Mom slapped me. I was shocked but I didn’t cry. Agad naman siyang nilapitan ni Dad para pigilan. “ Don’t talk to your mom like that!“ maotoridad na saad ni Dad.

“ Does it really matter? Ang sasabihin ng iba? Kaysa sa nararamdaman ng anak niyo? Mind you guys, tao ako. Hindi robot. May nararamdaman ako! Nasasaktan ako! Nahihirapan ako! Pero bakit ang images pa rin ng pamilya natin ang inaalala niyo? Ni hindi niyo nga tinanong kung okay pa ba ako? Kung hindi ako nahihirapan?“

Humagulgol si Mom and si Dad naman ay agad siyang inalo.

“Alright, I know I have lapses. And I apologize for that Mom and Dad. Pasensya na kung hindi ako gano’n kagaling katulad niyo.. Katulad ni Kuya! And katulad ng mga pinsan ko. Sorry po, dahil sinira ko ang perfect streak ng family natin sa medicine field. Na may bumagsak and worst sa mismong family natin!”

“Hindi iyan ang gusto sabihin ng Mommy—”

“Dad, kung itatakwil niyo ako, I don’t care. Dahil sa pamilyang ito lahat matalino at lahat magaling. And I don’t belong with you guys. Tanggap ko naman ’yon..”

Tumalikod na ako at tumakbo palabas. Went straight to my car.

“Reeve Cathalia! Bumalik ka dito !” rinig kong pang sigaw ni Dad.

Nang makasakay na ako sa sasakyan ko. The weight in my chest was unbearable, so heavy that every breath felt like a struggle. I wanted to scream, to break something, to disappear.

Tinatap ko ang dibdib ko dahil sobrang sakit pero ko ’di ko magawang maiyak. Naiipon siya dibdib ko dahil hindi ko mailabas

Napatingin ako sa wrist watch ko and it’s 7pm. I need a peace. I need to drink. Kailangan kong huminga.

I was about to call Paige pero natigilan ako. Katulad ko, She failed too. And I know gusto niya mapag isa ngayon. Ayoko ng guluhin siya for now.

I went to Jazzy alone. It’s not my first time naman to go to clubbing na mag isa. Most of the time kapag sobrang frustrated na ako sa mga ganap ng buhay ko ay umiinom ako.

Nang makapasok ako. The neon lights blurred my eyes as I slid onto a bar stool and forced a smile that felt more like a grimace.

“Can I have five glasses of Blow Job first ?” I asked the bartender.

As the first shot was set in front of me, agad ko ininom ’yon. Sobrang nabitin ako sa lasa kaya hindi ko na namalayan na naubos ko na agad ang limang nakahain sa harap ko.

“5 more please.” I smiled to the bartender at gulat siya sa nakita niya.

“ Ma’am, please drink responsibly,“ saad niya pa.

“ Ofcourse, I can manage the alcohol,“ mayabang ko pang sambit.

Nakasalukbaba lang ako habang hinihintay ang next 5 glass ng blow job. Then I scanned the room to check kung may mga familiar faces. This place was a hangout place for my cousins, my brother, and many of their colleagues. Part of me hoped to see no one I knew.

Dahil I don’t want to deal with any familiar face tonight. Habang inililibot ko ang mga mata ko. I saw a face I recognized immediately.

Ayan na nga ba sinasabi ko eh!

“ Kristan? “ natatawang saad ko sa sarili ko.

Talagang ibang klase ang pasyente na ’to? Excited na makita si kamatayan.

He was seated on one of the velvet couches in. Beside him was a woman—beautiful, elegant, and unfamiliar.

Ibang babae naman! I didn’t expect na ganito si Kristan. As far I remember ang sabi good boy ’to eh tapos kay Ate Atarah lang patay na patay. Eto ba ang epekto ng heartbreak niya? Naging babaero slash bad boy?

“ Kristan !“ I called out as I stumbled toward him, nearly losing my balance as the alcohol hit me harder than I expected.

What the hell? Naka five shot palang ako parang bigla akong matutumba ha.

“ Reeve ?“ nagtataka na saad niya kahit medyo malayo pa ako.

I stopped in front of him and crossed my arms, trying to appear steadier than I felt.

“Tigas talaga ng ulo mo, no?”  My eyes narrowed at the drink in his hand.

“ What is that? Are you trying to kill yourself?“ I scoffed bitterly. “ And then when you’re around Ate Atarah, napabaka bait mo! Hindi daw umiinom ng alak eh anong tawag mo dyan? Ihi?“

The woman beside him sighed dramatically. “Who’s that?”

“Oh, it’s your sister again .” napatingin ako sa lalaking pamilyar na nasa kabilang couch. Isa ito sa mga lalaking kasama niya sa Speedway.

“I am not his sister ,” I snapped, glaring at them. “ And who exactly are you?“ turo ko naman sa babae.

She leaned forward, studying me with interest. “ I’m Kristan’s friend. Wait… isn’t you are the girl from the video? The war freak girl?“

Kumunot ang noo ko at akmang sasagot ng hilain ako ni Krisyan

“F-ck off,” He hissed at the girl bago kami tuluyan lumayo.

“Come on.” hinila niya ako and I panicked

“Wait! Where are you taking me?” I protested, trying to pull away dahil napansin ko papunta kami sa exit.

“I’m not going home. I came here to party.” umupo na ako para matigil siya.

His grip tightened—not painfully, but firmly pero tumigil na siya sa paglalakad.

“Who are you with? Tumayo ka nga d’yan! Get up!”

I smiled. And tumayo ako. I lifted my chin.

“I’m alone.” nakanguso kong saad.

The look on his face darkened. “ And what?“ he demanded. “ You were planning to drink until you blacked out? Let strangers take care of you?“

Ngumiti ako ng nakakaloko para asarin siya.

“I don’t mind. I’m ovulating anyway.” malakas na saad ko dahil medyo malakas na ang sounds.

Kristan closed his eyes and muttered a curse under his breath. “ D-mn it!“

“ Please ,“ I said, my voice suddenly small. “ I need to drink tonight. I really need to. I have a problem, Kristan. Sobrnag bigat ng dibdib ko, masama ang loob ko. Gusto kong uminom.“

For a long moment, he studied me. Then he exhaled. Kitang kita ko rin na unti-unti lumambot ang expresyon niya.

“Fine.”

“Doon tayo sa pwesto ko kanina. “ I held his hands at iginiya sa bar stool na ininuman ko.

“What alcohol do you want?” I asked him.

His eyes, sobrang pungay. And I don’t know hindi ko mabasa ang expresyon niya ngayon.

“Just jack daniel..”

“Sir, 1 order of JD. And okay na ba ’tong drink ko?”

“Yes, Maam.”

I smiled and look at to Kristan. “ Do you know how to drink blow job? Like this oh..“

Hinawakan ko ang buhok ko and kinuha ko ang shot glass gamit ang bibig at ininom. ’Yung way kasi ng pag inom nito ay literal na parang you are doing the BJ in the guy.

Proud akong tinignan siya. Lumukot ang expresyon niya na para bang hindi makapaniwala.

“One more ..” this time ay iniwas niya ang tingin niya.

Nang matapos ko ito ay balak ko sana inumin ang pangatlong shot glass pero kinuha niya ’yon.

“Enough, why don’t you chill first? Masyado kang mabilis.”

“Yiee, bakit hindi ka makatingin saakin ?” I said when I notice na iniiwas niya pa rin ang tingin saakin.

“ Kuya prepare 4 shots Tequila  pa please ,“ I told the bartender.

Kristan immediately objected. “ No, you had enough—“

“You’re here naman ’di ba ,” I interrupted, looking up at him with glassy eyes. “ Please. I know you’ll take care of me.. “ I pouted.

“ Fine, but mamaya mo na inumin ang mga ’yan. Answer me, what’s your problem?“ seryosong tanong niya.

“You saw the video, right ?” I laughed bitterly. “ It spread everywhere. My parents saw it. Even the school.“

“ And do you know what’s worse? l failed “ My voice broke. “ Hindi ako g-graduate ngayon..“

Kinuha ko ang isang shot ng tequila. Hindi niya na ako napigilan dahil mabilis ko na inom ito.

“Medical school is so hard, Kristan. I lost my spark. Dumating ako sa point na sobrang pagod na pagod ako. I did everything naman pero mahirap talaga, ’yung capacity ng utak ko hindi naman katulad sainyo o kina Kuya Rare. Pinipilit ko nalang talaga ang sarili ko. To be honest simula nang mag start ako sa med school. Barely surviving lang din ako. And sobra akong pressure sa ilang taon kong pag aaral. But My parents never ask me if I’m okay. Kung kaya ko ba talaga?”

The confession hung between us, raw and devastating.

Kristan said nothing. He simply watched me with those dark, steady eyes that always seemed to see too much.

“What’s your plan then? You don’t want to continue it anymore?”

“Hindi ko alam, you know my family. Kilala sina Kuya at parents ko. Ang buong pamilya ko. Kinakahiya nila ako ngayon dahil ako lang ang kauna-unahan sa pamilya namin ang bumagsak. Imagine, kung dito palang nahihirapan na ako. Paano pa sa board exam? Baka mag retake ako ng ilang beses. Edi mas lalo kong binigyan sila ng kahihiyan..”

“Can I tell you something?”

I looked up at him.

“I’m a doctor now. People see the white coat, the title, the clinic, me topping in the boards and they think everything came easily for me .” He gave a small smile.

“But what they don’t know is how many times I doubted myself. How many nights I cried because I felt like I wasn’t good enough.”

Pinakinggan ko siya. Inumin niya ang alak niya. Suddenly bigla ko naalala ang sinabi before ni Kuya na Kristan is not working anymore.

Simula nang mangyari ang insidente na ’yon. Ay never na siya tumapak sa hospital to treat a patient again. Tumapak siya sa hospital bilang isang pasyente na rin.

Ang saklap din nga ng buhay ni Kristan.

“ There was a time when I wanted to quit too,“ he continued. “ I

never have failed exams.  But I compared myself to classmates who seemed smarter and more confident. During board review, I was terrified. Every single day, I wondered if I would make it.“

“But you did a nd top 3 pa ,” I whispered.

“Yes. Not because I was the smartest person in the room. Not because I never felt afraid. I made it because I kept going, even when I felt like giving up.”

Ininom ko muli ang isang baso ng tequila. “Reeve, Failing does not define your future. It does not mean you are incapable, and it certainly does not mean you won’t become a doctor.”

“But what if this is a sign that I’m not meant for this?”

He shook his head. “ No. It’s a sign that you’re human.“

“Medicine is not about never failing, “ he said. “ It’s about learning how to continue after failure. Every doctor you admire has a story of setbacks, fear, and self-doubt. The difference is that they didn’t stop. You’ve already come this far. That alone proves how strong and capable you are.”

He looks really sincere with what his saying. Bwiset bakit nagiging lalong gwapo sa paningin ko ang lalaking ito?

“In the end, people will still call you a Doctor. No one asks how many times you failed. What matters is that you never gave up. For now, don’t make a decision while you’re hurting. Rest. Heal. Then decide when your mind is clear. If you think you’re losing spark that’s normal because I felt that too..” He looked at me with a sad eyes.

I felt like marami pang gustong sabihin ang mga matang ’yan. Pero hindi na nasundan pa Natahimik kami at nag patuloy sa pag inom.

“Why are you looking at me like that? “ tanong niya dahil nakatitig lang ako sa kaniya.

The alcohol loosened my tongue and stripped away whatever pride I had left.

I turned toward him and whispered, “ Do you want to sleep with me tonight, Doc?“

“Reeve ,” he said quietly and lumayo ng kaungi. “ Please. Stop talking like that.“

I laughed.

“ Come on, Kristan. My brother trusts you. “ I touched his chest, my hand trembling over the steady beat of his heart. “ Why don’t you take my virginity? I’m giving you permission.“

His breath caught.

I traced my fingers lower, desperate for distraction, for comfort, for anything that would make the ache inside me disappear.

“Don’t be gentle with me just because I’m drunk,” I whispered. “ I’m letting you to touch me.. I want you..“

The muscles in his jaw tightened.

Then he stood abruptly.

“ Stop it. You’re drunk. I’m taking you home.“

He grabbed my arm.

“ No .“ Panic flashed through me. “ If you don’t want me, I’ll find someone else nalang tp satisfy me. I’m horny Kristan..“

My words were reckles but I don’t care.

Kristan’s eyes blazed.

“ What the f-ck are you saying that? Nahihibang ka na ba?“

“I ’m sad and horny, Kristan. I want you, pleasee..” ulit ko pa.

Bumuntong hininga siya. Without another word, he pulled me to my feet and guided me toward the exit and weng straightto the parking lot

“Where are you taking me ?” I asked as he opened the passenger door.

“To my place.”

My heart pounded.

“We’re going to do that there? “ masayang saad ko.

He looked at me for a long moment, his expression unreadable.

“Yes..”

The single word sent a shiver through me.

The moment we were inside the car, the heat of the alcohol and the storm inside my chest overwhelmed me.

I turned toward him and kissed him—desperate, trembling, and far more vulnerable than I wanted to admit.

For a second, he kissed me back. His hand slid to my thigh, fingers tightening as though he was fighting himself.

Habang tuloy ang halikan namin naramdaman ko na inadjust niya ang upuan na para mahiga. I don’t know paano pero nahila niya ako palapit sakaniya dahilan para maupo ako sa tap niya sakaniya while facing him.

I slowly slipped off my top, leaving me in nothing but my bra..

Kristan’s eyes darkened the moment his gaze fell on me.

Without breaking eye contact, I took both of his hands and placed them in my boobies, silently telling him that this was what I wanted.

“ D-mn ,“ He breathed against my lips nang umayos siya ng upo.

My voice trembling with anticipation. “ I can’t wait anymore. I wany you now..“

A soft gasp escaped me when I felt his fingers move to the clasp of my bra. In one smooth motion, he unclasped it.

Matagal na tinitinitigan niya ito bago niya pinadaudos ang kaniyang daliri sa nipple ko. He played with it.

I can see his eyes have mixture of hunger and reverence. He cupped me gently, his touch both possessive and tender, making my breath catch in my throat.

A low groan escaped his lips before he lowered his mouth to my skin, kissing me with an intensity that made my entire body tremble. Sobrang baliw na baliw ako sa bawat paglaro ng dila niya.

Every touch, every kiss, felt desperate yet careful—like he wanted to memorize every part of me.

And in that moment, wrapped in his arms and consumed by the way he looked at me, I knew there was no place I would rather be.

His forehead rested against mine, his breathing uneven, as if he had been holding back more than just words. His kisses had been desperate. hungry. Not because he wanted something from me, but because he was trying to pour every unspoken emotion into that single moment.

And when he wrapped me in his arms and pressed gentle kisses along my neck, the tears I had been fighting so hard to contain finally began to fall.

For the first time that night, I felt comfort. I felt peace.

Natigilan siya. Nang marinig niya ang paghikbi ko.

“Shh,” he whispered, brushing the tears from my cheeks with infinite tenderness. “ I’m sorry if I was too rough.“

Napailing- iling ako dahil mukhang natakot siya.

“ No .“ Yung mga luha na ilang taon kong pinigilan, mga luha na matagal kong kinimkim at itinago

“No… Let me cry.”

My fingers tightened around his shirt as I buried my face against his chest. Ang sarap sa feeling na umiyak!

“But I don’t want to see you crying, Reeve..”

“Please, “ I begged between broken breaths. “Please, just let me cry. I’m okay. Please continue..”

And Kristan did the one thing I needed most.

He held me. Not with desire. Not with impatience. But with a quiet, devastating tenderness that shattered every wall I had built around myself.

There, in the quiet silence of his car, with my tears soaking through his shirt and the steady beat of his heart beneath my ear, I finally understood the truth I had been trying so hard to ignore.

Akala ko alcohol was the answer.

Akala ko a few glasses of liquor would be enough to make the pain disappear. Enough to silence the thoughts in my head. Enough to help me forget everything, kahit isang gabi lang.

But I was wrong.

Because more than anything else, what I truly needed wasn’t alcohol.

Ang kailangan ko pala ay isang taong yayakap sa akin habang unti-unti akong nadudurog.

Isang lugar kung saan puwede kong tigilan ang pagpapanggap na kaya ko pa.

Isang balikat na masasandalan.

A safe place where I didn’t have to explain why I was hurting. Where I didn’t need to pretend that everything was okay when it clearly wasn’t.

And somehow, without asking for anything in return, Kristan became exactly that.

He became my safe place tonight

My comfort.

My peace.

Sa mga bisig niya, finally, I allowed myself to break.

Pinayagan ko ang sarili kong ilabas ang lahat ng luha na matagal ko nang kinikimkim.

’Yung mga luha na ilang taon kong pinigilan, tuluyan nang bumuhos.

And surprisingly, ang gaan pala sa pakiramdam.