SYNOPSIS

Eliza Velasquez is beyond belief to have Khairro Sanford — the man she once loved but has grown to hate — as her bodyguard. With them forced to spend more time together, can Eliza bury the feelings resurfacing in her heart? Or is there no choice but to surrender and fall the second time around?

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Chief of Police Khairro Sanford is the epitome of perfection — as a handsome and rich gentleman, he technically has no worries to think of. However, his almost perfect life is rattled when he becomes the bodyguard of Eliza Velasquez, a girl who hates him to the core. Everything should have been strictly professional, but she’s savage, confident, and independent… and Khairro’s starting to like and hate her at the same time. With the undeniable attraction between them, can Khairro stop himself from falling for the girl who is off limits to him? Or will Eliza be a risk he’s willing to take even if she will cost him his life? 

Disclaimer: This story is written in Taglish. CONTENT WARNING: This story has mature scenes which are not suitable for young readers.

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 1

A LOUD GUN shot echoed in her head and Eliza came awake, wide eyes, panting, sweating, catching her own breath and her eyes were searching. She was on edge, ready to leap at any given second, but slowly, her tensed body relaxed as she took in his surroundings.

She’s inside her bedroom. There’s no gun shot. No blood on the floor. No screams. Nothing.

Eliza blinked and let out a loud breath. “Shit … that dream again.”

That dream wasn’t new to her. She kept dreaming the same dream over and over again for years now. Ni hindi na nga niya maalala kung kailan nag-umpisa iyon. All she could remember was waking up after hearing a loud gunshot and lots of blood on the floor, but other than that, nothing. Wala na siyang maalalang iba sa panaginip niya.

She could tell that there are other people in her dreams, but she couldn’t remember their faces when she wakes up.

She’s assuming that her dreams had something to do with her older brother, Knight Velasquez. She doesn’t remember him clearly, but she knew he’s her brother. Her memory of her brother was hazy but she’s still thankful that she was able to remember bits of pieces about him.

Huminga siya ng malalim at hinanap ng mga mata niya ang wall clock para malaman kung anong oras na.

6:45 AM.

Eliza blows a loud breath before climbing off the bed while combing her hair with her finger, trying to fixed her bed hair.

Following her daily routine, she took a bath, made herself some decent breakfast and while eating, she watched the news on TV.

But her routine was interrupted when her phone rang from the bedroom.

Sighing, she went to get her phone and tsked when she saw that it was her mother.

Pang ilang beses na ba niyang tawag ’to? Can’t she take a hint?

Eliza cancelled the call and went back to her breakfast while typing a message for Matamis na Lunes, asking when she’ll come back here. She was in the middle of sipping her coffee and texting when the doorbell to her condo rang.

“At sino naman kaya ’to? Ang aga-aga … “ Eliza tsked while walking towards the door.

Nang makalapit sa pinto, sinilip muna niya sa peephole kung sino ang nasa labas.

Kaagad na sumama ang mukha niya ng makita kung sino ang nasa labas ng pintuan ng condo niya. Ano na naman ang ginagawa niya rito? Napipilitang buksan ni Eliza ang pinto ng mag-ingay ulit ang doorbell niya.

“May kailangan ka?” Nakapameywang na tanong niya sa nasa labas ng pintuan ng condo niya.

The man outside her condo smiled. It was charming, Eliza admits, but, she will never be fooled. She’s not in her teens anymore.

“Breakfast?” The man offered with a sexy charming smile for her while handing him a paper bag with food, she presumed.

Mas lalong sumama ang mukha ni Eliza. Nakita niya lang ang pagmumukha ng kaharap, sira na kaagad ang araw niya.

Hindi ’yon ang unang beses na nangyari ’to, halos araw-araw mula ng makabalik siya galing Spain para sa kasal ng matalik niyang kaibigan na si Matamis na Lunes, palagi ng bumibisita ang tukmol na nasa harapan niya araw-araw. Minsan sa umaga, minsan naman sa gabi. Wala itong kapaguran.

Sumandal sa hamba ng pintuan si Eliza saka pinakatitigan ang binata. “Ano bang binabalak mo at palagi kang nandito, Mr. Chief of Police? Nanliligaw ka ba?”

Natigilan si Khairro sa tanong na ’yon ni Eliza. Nanliligaw ? Napatitig siya sa mukha ng dalaga. Eliza was beautiful, but he’s here for a different reason and he couldn’t tell her that. Nangako siya kay Velasquez na hindi malalaman ng kaharap ang hiniling nito sa kaniya nuong kasal nito at ni Sweet Monday.

Though he still doesn’t have the slightest idea of what’s going on … why Knight Velasquez wants to protect this woman, but he’ll do it anyway. It’s his job to protect people and because one of his friends asked him to.

“Just a good samaritan.” Pagdadahilan ni Khairro kay Eliza. Ang totoo, sinadya niya talaga ito dahil nangako siya sa espanyol na ’yon na po-protektahan niya ang dalaga.

Tumaas ang kilay ni Eliza. “Good samaritan is define as charitable or a helpful person and you’re neither of those two, Mr. Chief of Police. Now, get out of my sight or I’ll call security.”

Khairro sighed inwardly. This woman is hard to crack. “Look, just accept the breakfast and I’ll be on my way.” Ani Khairro sabay abot ng paper bag sa dalaga.

Eliza pulled her lips into a sweet sarcastic smile and said, “salamat pero kaya kong pakainin ang sarili ko.” Then her smile vanished, replaced by a sharp glare. “Now get out of my sight. Ayokong makakita ng pangit sa umaga.”

The man in-front of Eliza pressed his lips together. Gustong natawa ni Eliza. It was clear that Mr. Chief of Police doesn’t like being called ugly.

“I’m not ugly and we both know that.” Mr. Chief of Police said with a small smirk like he got her.

Eliza smirked back. “You’re ugly to me.”

Napatanga nalang si Khairro sa kaharap na dalaga. No one has called him ugly before. His name was always accompanied by the word ’ handsome ’ so this was the first time he was called ugly.

He didn’t mean to boast — well, he’s boasting — but he’s a good looking man. “You must be blind then.”

Eliza tsked and she called someone on her phone. “Yes.” Pagkausap niya sa nasa kabilang niya. “It’s me.” Binigay niya sa kausap na receptionists and floor number niya at room number. “Someone’s harassing me.” Eliza smiled at Mr. Chief of Police’s surprised face. “Yes. He’s a stalker. Please send the security guards. Thank you.” Pinatay niya ang tawag saka nginitian ng matamis ang kaharap, “yes, i’m a bitch, Chief.”

With that, she closed the door and went back to her breakfast. Seconds later, while she’s enjoying her coffee, she heard a commotion outside her condo.

She couldn’t hear clearly but she’s sure that she could hear the Chief of Police’s voice explaining the situation.

Eliza took a deep breath and smiled. “What a lovely day.” She muttered before sipping her coffee again.

After breakfast, Eliza left for work. Nang makarating sa kompaniyang pinagta-trabahuan, hindi na siya nagulat ng hindi makita ang boss niyang hindi pumapasok. Kaagad niya itong tinawagan na kaagad namang sinagot ng nasa kabilang linya.

“Boss, alam kung may triplets ka na pero hindi ka naman siguro mamamatay kung papasok ka, no?” Kaagad niyang sabi ng sagutin ng boss niya ang tawag.

And her boss just chuckled. “You can do it. You’re talented and amazing.”

“Hindi sakin uobra ang pambobola mo.” Napabuntong-hininga nalang siya. “Papalitan na talaga kita sa pagiging Presidente ng kompaniya, boss.” Napailing siya. “At least come to the office this week. You have lots of papers to sign and tons of repost to read and review. May limitasyon ang kayang gawin ng sekretarya, ipapaalala ko lang sayo, Bogo.”

“Stop calling me bogo.” Alma ng kausap.

“At bakit?” Pagtataray niya. “Boss na gago, Bogo for short ka naman talaga.”

Napabuntong-hininga ang boss niya. “I will visit the office so — hey, fuck! Seth, don’t do that, kiddo — fuck! I got to go. Bye!”

Napabuntong-hininga nalang ulit si Eliza ng mawala ang kausap sa kanilang linya.

Calyx Vargaz was the name of her boss, the owner of this company she worked in as a Secretary. She’d been working for him for years now and she’s already comfortable with her job that she doesn’t want a new one. Some would say that she’s over qualified to be a secretary, but who cares? Aanhin naman niya ang mataas na puwesto kung hindi naman siya masaya.

And she’s earning enough as Calyx Vargaz’s secretary. She’s well paid, with allowance, free condo and free food as well. Wala na siyang hahanapin pa.

Not only that, she’s allowed to raised her voice at her boss and cussed at him for being lazy and busy because they’re pretty close since she could remember and their mothers were friends. Sigurado siyang hindi niya ’yon magagawa sa iba at mapapaaway siya panigurado.

At the age of 27, she’s pretty much contented with her life, but no one is perfect and contentment was just an illusion. Naniniwala siyang walang kakontentuhan ang tao. It’s human nature to want more.

Malakas na bumuntong-hininga si Eliza saka umupo sa mesa niya at nag-umpisa nang magtrabaho. Inayos niya ang schedule at appointments ng boss niya para umayon iyon sa libre nitong oras. She received phone calls, compiled the papers needed the boss’ signature and also put the reports in a box so she could deliver it to her boss’ house after work.

While in the middle of working, her phone rang. Wala siyang balak sagutin iyon pero ng makitang ang Kuya Kabalyero niya iyon, kaagad niya itong sinagot.

“Hi, Kuya! How’s the married life?” She asked with a smile.

“Sweet Monday hates me!” Anang Kuya niya na parang nagpapaawa — hindi, nagda-drama lang ito. “She’s so mean to me, Elizabeth. She’s so cold!”

Pasimple bumuntong-hininga si Eliza sa ka-dramahan ng kuya niya. “I’ll talk to Matamis na lunes for you.” Ayaw na niya itong kausap kasi sinasapian na naman ng espiruto ng sinto-sinto ang kuya niya. “Bye, Kuya—”

“Wait!” Pigil sa kaniya ng kapatid. “I actually called for a different reason. I have a request, little sis.”

Tumaas ang dalawa niyang kilay. “What is it?”

“Well, I asked Sanford to guard and protect you. I told him not to tell you, but Sanford called today, complaining that you called the Security on him and painted him as a stalker — good for him, by the way — anyway, could you please cut him some slack? I’m worried about you, Elizabeth. I can’t tell you anything more than I could, but SM and I are dealing with bad people right now. We don’t want you caught in the crossfire, so could you please accept Sanford’s protection? Please, little sis?”

The answer was a big NO, but it’s her brother who treasures her and didn’t stop looking for her for so many years. Her brother didn’t gave up on her and he thought of her safety above anything else that’s why he didn’t introduced himself to her as her brother at their first meeting — yes, I’ve forgotten about him and my memory with him were hazy — all she knew was that her brother loved her so much that she doesn’t have the heart to say no to his request.

So that’s why Mr. Chief of Police has been visiting her condo. “Okay.” Was all she said.

Her brother let out a sighed of relief. “Thank God! Thank you, Elizabeth. Anyway, you don’t have to be nice to him.”

Napangiti siya. “Don’t worry, Kuya, I’m not nice anyway.”

“Okay. Stay safe, Elizabeth.”

“I will, Kuya. Thanks for the protection!”

“Don’t mention it.”

When the call ended, Eliza looked at the screen on her phone, thinking of her older brother and her bestfriend.

Dealing with bad people? She didn’t want to ask, but she had a slight idea what her brother meant by that. At kahit may alam siya sa pakikipaglaban, hindi siya kagalingan kaya siguradong wala siyang maitutulong. Tanging self-defence lang ang kaya niya. Ang tanging magagawa niya ay hindi maging kahinaan ng kapatid at matalik niyang kaibigan.

She won’t be their weakness and burden.

Saka sabi ni Kuya hindi ko naman kailangan maging mabait kay Mr. Chief of Police. Good thing though. Hindi kasi talaga siya mabait at kahit anong gawin niya, hindi talaga nagbabago ang ugali niya. Maldita talaga siya.

Eliza took a deep breath before continuing with her work.

After office, she went to Bachelor’s Village to gave the reports to her boss.

Bakit kaya Bachelor’s village pa rin ang pangalan ng subdivision na ’to e halos lahat naman ng nakatira rito may asawa na? Dapat Understanding Village ang tawag sa Subdivisions na ’to kasi halos lahat ng kilala niyang may asawa sa village na ’to ay mga understanding pagdating sa mga asawa ng mga ito.

Napapangiti si Eliza sa naisip.

Pero mas maganda pa rin siguro kung tagalog ang pangalan ng Village na ’to. Puwede na siguro ang Maunawaing Nayon o kaya naman Maunawaing Barangay.

Naiiling nalang si Eliza habang itinigil ang sasakyan sa harap ng bahay ng boss niya.

Kaagad niyang binuhat ang karton kun nasaan ang mga reports na kailangan nitong basahin saka lumabas siya ng sasakyan at nag door bell sa bahay ng boss. Ang asawa nito ang nagbukas ng pintuan para sa kaniya.

“Eliza!” Mabilis na binuksan ni Etheyl ang gate ng makita kung sino ang nasa labas. “Pasok ka.”

“Salamat.” Nakangiwing wika ni Eliza bago pumasok sa bahay ng mga ito at inilapag ang karton sa salas.

“Meryenda ka muna.” Aya sa kaniya ni Etheyl habang nakayakap sa hita nito ang panganay nito at ni Calyx.

“Pass lang muna.” Aniya saka hinaplos ang tiyan, “may cake pa ako doon sa bahay, balak kong ubusin mamaya pag-uwi ko.”

“Sige.” Ginulo ni Etheyl ang buhok ng panganay na anak. “Teka, tawagin ko lang si Calyx. Nandoon, inaalagaan ang triplets namin.”

“Huwag na.” Pigil niya rito. “Pasabi nalang kay boss na bigyan pansin niya itong mga dala kong papeles. Kailangan ko ang mga ito bago mag biyernes.”

Napangiwi si Etheyl, “siguradong hindi niya yan magagalaw. Wala ka bang iiwang pananakot sa kaniya?”

Mahina siyang natawa sa huling sinabi ng asawa ng boss niya. They both know how Calyx Vargaz’s mind works. “Ikaw na ang tumakot sa kaniya. Sabihin mo no sex for a week. Siguradong gagalaw ’yon.”

Blushing, Etheyl chuckled. “Sige. Yan ang gagawin ko.”

Nakangiting nagpaalam na si Eliza saka lumabas ng bahay. Pagkalabas niya ng gate ay kaagad siyang natigilan ng makita si Mr. Chief of Police na nakasandal sa sasakyan nito na nakaparada sa harapan ng sasakyan niya.

Lalampasan lang sana niya ito pero naalala niya ang hiling ng Kuya niya.

Lumapit siya rito saka pinag-krus ang mga braso sa harapan ng dibdib niya ng tumigil siya sa harapan nito. “May kailangan ka?”

“Did Velasquez call you?”

“Yeah.”

“And?”

Eliza shrugged and sarcastically answered. “What do you want me to say? I’ll be in your care?”

Khairro sighed. “Look, I just want to protect you per Velasquez’s request. Nothing more.”

“Okay.” She said with a shrugged.

“Good. I’ll drive you home then. Come on.” He tilted his head towards his car.

Tumaas ang kilay niya. “Nope.” Tinalikuran niya ito saka naglakad siya patungo sa sasakyan niya. “You want to send me home?” Tinuro niya ang passenger seat. “Take the shotgun.”

Sumakay si Eliza sa sasakyan at hinintay si Mr. Chief of Police na sumakay. Surprisingly, Mr. Chief of Police took her shotgun seat offer.

Kalmadong nagmaneho si Eliza palabas ng BV. Gusto niyang matawa sa sarili. Siguro kung noon ito nangyari na nasa isang sasakyan lang sila ni Khairro Sanford, baka nanginginig na siya sa kilig at may mga puso nang lumalabas sa mga mata niya.

Fortunately, she’s not that woman anymore.

Hi, self, buti tapos na ang tanga days mo.

“We have to work on your schedule.” Mr. Chief of Police broke the silence first. “Kailangan malaman ko kung nasaan ka, kung sinong kasama mo, kung anong oras ka aalis at uuwi at kung anong ginagawa mo para alam ko kung paano ka po-protektahan.”

Eliza couldn’t help but smile in amusement. “In short, you want to be my stalker.”

“I’m serious.” May diing sabi ni Khairro. “I don’t want to fail and disappoint Velasquez. He’s a good friend. I have to know everything about you, every single detail.”

“Should I give you my Personal Data Sheet?” Eliza asked jokingly.

“Yes, you should.”

Mahinang natawa si Eliza. He’s so serious. So unlike him. She knew for a fact that Khairro Sanford was far from being a serious guy like he was now, he’s a lot like her brother, so she doesn’t get why he’s so serious with her.

Maybe because he’s working and she’s a job … that explains.

“Well,” kinabig niya ang manibela pakaliwa, “I’m always busy at the Office, so I don’t go out much. Though on weekends, I go clubbing or shopping to relieve my stress.”

“How about boyfriend?”

“I don’t have one. I don’t want one and I don’t need one.”

Napatitig si Khairro kay Eliza na nagmamaneho. There was no bitterness in her voice, just facts. “Okay. Friends that I should know of?”

“Just Sweet Monday.”

“People I should be wary about and wants to harm you?” Mr. Chief of Police asked in a very professional tone.

Eliza glanced at Khairro, “I’m not a shady person, Mr. Chief of Police. I’m just an ordinary innocent bitch, that’s all.”

“Then why does Velasquez wants you protected?”

“Beats me.” She shrugged. “Ask him yourself.”

Khairro blows a loud breath. “After you send me your PDS, I’ll send you mine so you’ll know me and trust me.”

Eliza played it cool but she actually wanted to roll her eyes. She doesn’t need to read his PDS to trust him. Her trust was not easy to earn. Given her past with this man — but looks like he doesn’t remember it. I’m actually glad that he doesn’t remember me at all.

Maingat na ipinarada ni Eliza ang sasakyan sa parking lot ng condo niya saka lumabas ng sasakyan. Nagulat siya ng makitang sumabay si Khairro sa paglalakad niya papasok sa condominium.

Mukhang napansin nito ang pagkunot ng nuo niya dahil nagpaliwanag ito. “Ihahatid kita hanggang sa pintuan ng condo mo. We can’t be too careful.”

Eliza just shrugged it off. She’s not in the mood for argument.

“By the way, give me your number.” Ani Khairro habang nasa elevator sila. “In case of emergency.”

Kinuha ni Eliza ang cellphone sa handbag saka inabot iyon kay Khairro. Kaagad namang i-ti-nayp ni Khairro ang number nito, i-si-nave sa contacts ng dalaga saka tinawagan ang sariling numero bago ibinalik ang cellphone kay Eliza.

“I’ll call you to check up on you so answer my call immediately.” Khairro said in a business type voice.

Eliza rolled her eyes. “Whatever.”

Nang tumigil ang elevator, naunang lumabas si Khairro bago siya, saka nasa likuran niya ito habang naglalakad siya patungo sa pintuan ng condo niya.

Hindi niya ito pinansin at basta nalang pumasok sa condo niya saka isinara ’yon at nagtuloy-tuloy siya sa kuwarto niya para magpahinga.

Si Khairro naman na naiwan sa labas ng condo ni Eliza ay napatitig sa pintuan ng condo ng dalaga.

“Not even a thank you … “ he muttered to himself and sighed. “This is going to be tiresome.”

Naglakad na pabalik sa elevator si Khairro saka sumakay doon para magpahatid sa lobby.

While riding the elevator, he saved Eliza’s number and she remembered the woman’s face. She looks familiar though . Alam niyang nakita na niya ang dalaga, hindi lang niya maalala kung saan. Maybe because she’s Vargaz’s Secretary. Maybe.

Nang makarating sa lobby, biglang tumunog ang cellphone ni Khairro. Nang tingnan niya kung sino ’yon, napangiti siya ng makitang ang ina niya iyon.

“How’s my baby boy?” Kaagad na tanong nito nf sagutin niya ang tawag.

Napailing nalang siya sa tawag ng ina sa kaniya. It’s a little bit embarrassing, but if it could make his mother happy, then he’ll endure. “I’m okay, Mom. Why you called?”

“Oh, nothing. I’m just going to ask when are you planning to give us a grandchild.”

Khairro chuckled. “Hmm … I don’t know, Mom. Soon, maybe.”

“I’m looking forward to that, baby boy. Anyway, I also called to inform you that your father wants to have dinner.”

Kaagad na nawala ang ngiti niya. “I don’t want to.”

“Khairro, he’s your father.” Paalala sa kaniya ng ina.

He sighed. “It’s been years since you two got divorced. What does he want from me? He already has a family. I don’t want to see him, Mom. Tell him I’m busy.”

“Khairro—”

“Mom, don’t push it.” May diin ang boses na sabi niya.

Her mother sighed. “Khairro, you have to learn how to forgive him.”

“I can’t, Mom. Every time I see his face, I remember what happened to you when you found out that he has another family. I still can’t forget how much you cried that day. Seeing you in pain, I can’t forgive him.” Panay tagis ng bagang niya.

“Khairro…”

“Sorry, Mom. I can’t do it.” He rather have dinner with his Mom and step-father.

Her mother sighed. “Okay. I’ll tell him. Anyway, Dan wants to have dinner with you this weekend.”

Dan was his step-father and he’s the man who raised him. He considered him as his real Dad. Her mother remarried after her divorced with his biological father.

“Sure. Just tell me when.” Kaagad niyang sagot.

“Okay. I’ll call you again. Love you, baby boy.”

“Love you too, Mom.” Aniya saka pinatay ang tawag.

Kaagad siyang tumawag ng taxi ng makalabas ng condo at nagpahatid sa BV dahil nandoon ang sasakyan niya. Habang nasa biyahe, nakatanggap siya ng text message galing kay Eliza.

From: Eliza Velasquez

’Good night 😘 ’

Khairro blinked enumerable times, making sure that he’s reading the text right. After a couple of seconds of checking it, it was indeed a text message from Eliza with a kissing emoji.

Huh?

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 2

A/N: I think a lot of your were confused about my new writing style. It’s called Third Person Omniscient. It’s doesn’t focus on one POV anymore, well, not in every scene though. But do tell me if it’s confusing you or if it is unclear so I could improve my writing 😊

Enjoy!

CHAPTER 2

KUNG HINDI ba naman siya tanga. Sa dami nang tao na puwede niyang masendan ng ’ Good night 😘’ si Khairro Sanford pa talaga. Gustong sapakin ni Eliza ang sarili dahil sa katangahan — well, hindi naman ’yon masyadong katangahan. It was an accident.

She had a bad eye sight that’s why she uses contact lens to see clearly. And last night, she took off her contacts after talking to Matamis na Lunes via text and didn’t use her glasses afterwards, then she accidentally texted ‘Good night 😘’ to Khairro Sanford instead of Matamis na Lunes.

How did it happen? She doesn’t even know. Masyadong malabo ang mata niya pero pinilit niyang mag-text pa rin. Kaya hayon, napunta sa iba ang text niya.

But what’s the big deal anyway? I’ll just tell him it was a missent. Yep. That’s what she’ll do. Ayaw niyang ma stress sa umaga.

But stress had twisted ways to amplify stress.

Chief of Police, Khairro Sanford knocked on her door, with breakfast and she had no other choice but to invite him in because he’s ’ protecting ’ her.

Wala siyang pakialam kung sabog ang buhok niya dahil hindi pa siya nagsusuklay mula ng magising siya, pinapasok niya ang binata at giniya ito patungong hapagkainan.

“I bought this for you.” Anito sabay lapag ng paper bag na dala nito. “Anyway, here’s my schedule for the next two weeks.” Inilapag nito ang isang folder sa lamesa. “All my appointments are written there so you’ll know when i’m free.”

Eliza sipped her coffee. “You know, Chief, puwede mo naman akong protektahan na hindi binibilhan ng agahan.”

Natigilan ang binata sa sinabi niya bago nagsabi ng, “it’s a common courtesy.”

“No, it’s not.” Aniya. “Just protect me, no need to buy me anything.” Then she went to her room to get her files and then she handed it to Khairro. “Here you go. PDS with Bio Data, my schedule for the whole month and my curriculum vitae.” She smiled sarcastically. “In case you need it.”

Tinaggap naman iyon ni Khairro saka inilagay sa folder na inilapag nito sa lamesa. “I’ll read it later.”

“Sure. By the way,” umupo siya ulit sa hapagkainan saka sumimsim ng kape, “don’t mind my text last night. It was a missent.”

Napatitig sa kaniya ang binata saka tumikhim at sumagot. “Yeah. I figured.”

“Yeah? That’s good.”

“Yeah.”

Heavy silence fell on them.

Tumingin siya sa binata. “Hindi ka pa aalis?”

Sa halip na umalis, umupo pa ang binata. “Ihahatid kita sa opisina mo.”

Eliza sipped her coffee while trying to tame her messy hair.

Si Khairro naman ay nakatitig lang sa dalaga. Pasimple nitong tinitingnan ang kabuonan nito. Eliza’s hair was a mess, it’s like a cute little bird nest, but it seems she doesn’t mind that. She’s not ashamed to show who she really was without her make up on.

That was actually refreshing to see.

“What?” Tanong ni Eliza kay Khairro ng mahuli nitong nakatitig ang binata rito.

“You’re pretty.”

Eliza looked at Khairro flatly. “Chief, ipapaalala ko lang, nandito ka para bantayan ako, hindi para salakayin ang kainosentehan ko.”

“Nagsasabi lang naman ako ng totoo.” Anito. “It’s a compliment.”

Umingos si Eliza. “Kayong mga lalaki, mabulaklak masyado ang bibig niyo. Buti hindi pa tinutubuan ng orchids o kaya santan yang bibig niyo no?”

That made the corner of Khairro’s mouth to tugged up. “I’m just telling the truth.”

She looked at Khairro with her bitch resting face. “Save the compliment. Hindi ko ’yon ibabalik sayo.”

“I know I’m handsome.” Anang binata.

Umingos si Eliza. “Bagyong Khairro, signal number 5. Malakas na hangin, maraming dalang ulan na may kasamang pagbaha at pagguho ng lupa.”

Pigil ni Khairro ang mapangiti sa tinuran ng dalaga. He must remain serious since he’s working and Eliza’s a job. He had to remain professional.

Eliza rolled her eyes when she saw Khairro holding in his smile. What’s with this guy? Pinipilit na maging seryoso e baliw naman talaga siya, kapareha ni Kuya at ng boss ko.

Eliza tsked and raised her eyebrow at Khairro. “Kung gusto mong magpagulong-gulong sa pagtawa, gawin mo, hindi na pinipigil mo baka mabuhusa kita ng kape diyan. Huwag kang magpanggap na seryoso ka. Alam kong baliw ka, wala naman kasing matino na kaibigan ang boss ko at si Kuya. Lahat kayo kulang ng turnilyo sa utak.”

Napatanga at napangiwi si Khairro sa dalagang kaharap. Eliza really had a sharp tongue and a savage mouth. “I’m working that’s why I need to be professional.”

Eliza tsked before leaving the table. “Bahala ka nga sa buhay mo. Gago.”

Napatingin nalang si Khairro sa papalayong bulto ng dalaga. What did I do? She’s always pissed at him. May nagawa ba

a

kong mali sa kaniya na hindi ko alam? Para kasing may pinanggagalingan ang inis nito sa kaniya. ’Yon o talagang mataray lang ito?

Khairro just sighed and waited for the woman to stepped out from her room.

In less than twenty minutes, Eliza was out of her room wearing an office attire with light make up on. Her hair was now tamed and ready to face the day.

And here he thought women takes a long time to get ready. Just a stereotype, I guess.

“Come on.” Aya ni Eliza kay Khairro ng nanatili lang itong nakaupo ng makalabas siya sa kuwarto niya. “Siguradong traffic na ngayon. Ayokong ma-late.”

Tahimik namang sumunod sa kaniya si Khairro, pero ng makasakay sila sa elevator, pinindot nito ang RT button.

“The fuck?” She asked the Chief of Police.

“I’ll let you drive me yesterday, let me drive you today.”

Napakurap-kurap si Eliza saka napatitig sa likod ng binata. Hindi siya makapaniwalang ibang ’ drive ’ ang pumasok sa isip niya. Hindi rin nakatulong ang pagkakasabi nito niyon. Parang ang halay — teka, baka ako ang mahalay, hindi siya?

Eliza did the sign of the cross and mumbled. “Please, Lord, bantayan niyo ang puri ko. Huwag niyong hayaang salakayin siya ng masamang espiritu.”

Nilingon siya ng binata. “What are you mumbling about?”

“Just praying.”

“Huh?”

“Nothing. Anyway, bakit tayo pupunta sa Roof top?” Sa wakas nawala na rin ang ‘drive’ sa isip niya. “Alam kong mayaman ka pero wala pang naiimbentong lumilipad na kotse.”

“Just trust me.”

“Uh-huh.” She said sarcastically.

Khairro sighed. “Hindi kita ipapahamak. Binabantayan nga kita diba?”

“Uh-huh.”

Khairro subtly gritted his teeth. “Stop with that uh-huh.”

“Uh-huh.” She said to annoy him more.

Napabuntong-hininga nalang ang binata saka tinalikuran ulit siya. Siya naman ay pigil na natawa dahil nasisiyahan siyang inisan ang binata.

Self, you really are an ordinary innocent bitch.

The elevator stopped and they stepped out. Natulos si Eliza sa kinatatayuan ng makakita ng Helicopter sa harapan nila.

“Let’s go.” Aya ni Khairro sa kaniya ng makitang natulos siya sa kinatatayuan. “You’ll be in Vargaz’s building in less than five minutes.”

Eliza blinked at the Helicopter. “Pumapasok ka sa presinto na naka-Helicopter?”

Khairro shrugged. “I hate traffic. Anyway, this is my baby,” iminuwestra nito ang kamay sa Helicopter, “stronghold.”

Tumaas ang kilay niya. “That’s a lame name. Pero dahil hindi naman sakin, wala akong paki.” Pagkasabi niyon ay sumakay siya ng Helicopter.

Nakamasid lang si Eliza kay Khairro ng umupo ito sa pilot seat at binuhay ang makina ng Helicopter.

He looked so gorgeous and hot in her eyes that she’ll burn if she keeps looking, but she couldn’t seem to look away. Basta lang siya nakatitig sa binata habang minamaniobra nito ang Helicopter pataas.

Damn it! May crush pa rin ba ako sa tukmol na ’to? Pero matagal na ’yon at tinanggihan siya ng gago. Buti nalang talaga hindi siya nito naaalala. Nakakahiya ’yon panigurado.

Kinurot ni Eliza ang sarili para magising ang diwa niya saka tumingin sa labas ng bintana ng helicopter.

She couldn’t believe she was flying to the office. This was over the top for her.

Walang imik lang si Eliza habang nasa himpapawid sila hanggang sa makarating sila sa helipad ng pinagta-trabahuan niya.

“I’ll pick you up at 5PM!” Pasigaw na sabi ni Khairro at tumango lang siya saka lumabas ng Helicopter. Saka lang umalis ang helicopter ng makasakay siya ng elevator.

She was already busy and working when she received a message from Khairro.

From: Pangit

‘Kararating ko lang sa presinto. I’ll be working and i’ll be busy for next couple of hours. But if anything happens, whatever it is, give me a ring. I’ll be there. Be safe.’

Ilang ulit na binasa ni Eliza ang text na ’yon ni Khairro bago napatanong sa sarili.

“Bakit kung makapag-text siya sakin, parang jowa niya ako?”

Nagtaasan ang balahibo niya saka binura ang text nito. That is cringe.

Mabilis niyang ibinalik sa bag ang cellphone saka pinagpatuloy ang pagta-trabaho. Thankfully, her boss actually came today that’s why her busyness doubled. Ni hindi nga niya namalayang lampas na nang tanghalian kung hindi pa siya nilabas ng boss niya at inutusang kumain.

“I don’t have an appetite.” Aniya habang abala sa harapan ng computer. “Susulitin kong nandito ka. I will work your ass off Bogo so go back to your office and fuckin’ work already. Wala kang karapatang lumabas sa dami ng absent mo. Balik.”

“Wala rin ba akong karapatang kumain?” Puno ng sarkasmo na tanong ni Calyx sa kaniya.

She glared at her boss. “Bakit? Kumain na ba ako?”

“Hindi pa.”

“Oh, ’yon naman pala. Bumalik ka na sa loob at magtrabaho. Para sa mga kagaya mong minsan lang pumasok, dapat hindi mo kilala ang salitang pahinga.”

Napabuntong-hininga nalang si Calyx saka bumalik sa opisina nito na pinagpasalamat ni Eliza.

She was in the middle of noting appointments and reviewing papers for her boss when her phone beeped.

A text from The Chief of Police again.

From: Pangit

‘You safe?’

Napabuntong-hininga nalang siya saka napatitig sa text ni Khairro. Kung assumera lang siya, iisipin niyang pa-fall itong tukmol na ’to. Pero normal lang naman ang mensahe nito dahil binabantayan siya nito kaya naman nag reply siya.

To: Pangit

’ 🖕🏻 is this safe enough for you?’

Napakurap-kurap naman si Khairro ng mabasa ang reply na ’yon ni Eliza, kapagkuwan ay napailing nalang. She may be friends with Sweet Monday but the two were so much different.

Khairro replied. ’ No suspicious individual lurking around?’

From: Eliza Velasquez

’Yong boss ko, hindi ko pinayagang palabasin sa opisina niya

kaya

panay silip niya ngayon sakin, gusto yatang tumakas. Suspicious siya.’

Napailing nalang ulit si Khairro at magri-reply sana kay Eliza na mag-ingat ito ng makatanggap siya ng mensahe sa group chat nilang magkakaibigan.

AKO AY JUMBO GROUP CHAT

Sino na naman kayang baliw ang bumago sa pangalan ng group chat nila?

Calyx Vargaz : 😭 Sana pala hindi nalang ako pumasok. Ayaw akong pagpahingahin sa pagta-trabaho ng sekretarya ko. #Slavery

And below Calyx’s message was a photo attachment showing all the files on his table, in front of him.

Knight Velasquez : Fuck you, Vargaz! So babaw your problem is. Mas malaki problema ko, hindi ako pinapansin ng asawa ko. #IFeelSoAlone

Nangingiting nag-type siya para lang mas lalong inisin ang mga kaibigan.

Khairro Sanford : #YourIdiots #ImHandsome #IHavePerfectAbs

Hindi na niya hinintay ang reply ng mga kaibigan niya dahil alam niyang puro mura lang naman ’yon. He went to his messages and reply to Eliza.

‘Be careful. I don’t want anything bad to happen to you.’

From: Eliza Velasquez

‘🙄’

He replied. ’ I’ll pick you up later.’

From: Eliza Velasquez

‘Kay Kuta ulit tayo sasakay?’

Khairro frowned. ’ Kuta ?’

From: Eliza Velasquez

’Yong Helicopter mo. Di’ba stronghold pangalan niya, tagalog no’n ‘kuta’, pero ayaw mo sa kuta puwede namang ’malakas

ang

hawak.’ Diba mas maganda? Mas epic.’

After reading Eliza’s message, Khairro concluded. I’m sure of it now. She’s really related to Velasquez. She did call Knight Kuya earlier.

Magri-reply sana siya ng pumasok ang sekretarya niya. “Sir, nasa labas si Congressman Gabiola. Gusto kayong makausap.”

Kaagad na nagtagis ang bagang niya. “Kung tungkol ’to sa anak niyang nanggahasa na gusto niyang basta ko nalang pakawalan, wala akong oras sa kaniya.”

“Yes, Sir.”

Lumabas na ang sekretarya niya pero mukhang hindi ito nagtagumpay na paalisin ang kongresista dahil nagpumilit itong pumasok.

Bumuntong-hinga nalang siya saka tumayo ng makapasok ang Kongresista.

“Chief Sanford, pag-usapan natin ’to.” Kaagad nitong hiling sa kaniya. “Hindi kayang manakit ng anak ko. Hinihiling ko sana na tulungan niyo akong kausapin ang nagsampa ng kaso at pigilan sila.” Pagkasabi nito niyon ay naglapag ito ng makapal na envelop sa mesa niya. “Para sa tulong, Chief. Pasasalamat ko in advance.”

Kumuyom ang kamao niya. Ang dami talagang gago sa mundo. Lahat gagawin, makatakas lang sa krimen na ginawa nila. “Congressman, hindi mo ako madadala sa pera. At kung wala ka nang ibang sasabihin, umalis na kayo sa opisina ko at hintayin niyo nalang ang desisyon ng korte. Dahil kahit ilang milyon pa ang pera na ’yan, hinding-hindi niyan mabubura ang trauma na ibigay ng anak mo sa biktima at ang pinaka-ayoko sa lahat ng krimen ay ang ginawa ng anak mo. We have enough substantial evidence to charge your son with rape. Hinding-hindi ko siya hahayaang matakasan ang ginawa niya. Now leave my office and don’t come back.”

Nanggagalaiti ang kongresista sa mga sinabi niya at dinuro niya. “Chief of Police ka lang. Sisiguraduhin kong pagsisisihan mo ’to!”

Khairro sighed and dropped himself on his seat when the Congressman left his office.

Because of his line of work, he had seen the worst of people.

People always put themselves before others, choosing convenience before what’s right. It’s human nature.

They always say than no one is above the law, but that’s not really true. There are people out there who’s above the law, and these people were powerful individual that could get away with anything by any means necessary. All for the sake of their convenience.

Unfortunately, a Chief of Police couldn’t touch them.

Khairro blows a loud breath and leaned on his seat. He was so pissed that he was clenching his fist tightly. He wanted to calm down, but his anger was consuming him, ’til he heard his phone rang.

Still trying to control his anger, he answered his phone.

“Dad.”

“Khairro,” huminga ito ng malalim, “I received a call from a Congressman. He wants to send you to a faraway place. He has a lot of complains and he’s pulling a lot of strings to drag you down.”

He sighed. “He’s annoying so I talked to him a little.”

His step-father tsked. “Well, we can’t leave him barking and making noise.”

Khairro smiled. “Thanks, Police General, Sir.”

Mahinang tumawa ang ama niya. “Anyway, dinner tonight. Don’t be late.”

“Yes, Dad.”

“Okay. Bye.”

“Bye.”

Nang nawala ang ama sa kabilang linya, napatingin si Khairro sa kisame. Good thing Dad always got my back. He smiled feeling proud of the man who raised him. He may not be his biological father, but he’s the real deal, for him, he was his real father.

He blows a loud breath before going back to work. As a Chief of Police, his work was mainly in administrative and he seldom do field works. So to avoid getting rusty, he always train himself from shooting to hand to hand combat. His skills always comes in handy when his friends needs assistance.

Speaking of assistance…

Binuksan niya ang drawer sa gilid ng mesa saka kinuha doon ang folder kung nasaan ang PDS, Bio Data at Curriculum vitae ni Eliza. He knew she was being sarcastic giving him these documents but he accepted anyway.

He needs to know everything about her so he could protect her better.

Reading Eliza’s PDS, Khairro was surprised. “We went to the same school in High School? Looks like i’m two years older than her. Is that why she looked familiar? She really has a good background, then why is she Calyx’s Secretary? She’s overqualified for that buraot .”

Wala sa sariling napatitig si Khairro sa larawan ni Eliza sa PDS.

She was really pretty. A brunette with blue eyes — wait, wasn’t her eye color brown?

Mas pinakatitigan niya ang larawan nito. Kahit saang anggulo niya tingnan, kulay asul talaga ang mata nito.

But she’s brown-eyed. He couldn’t be mistaken because he remembered admiring those expressive sharp brown eyes when he first saw her on Calyx’s wedding.

I’ve known her for more than a year now but we didn’t really talk. She’s always irritated at him for some reason.

I wonder what her genuine smile looks like.

Napailing nalang si Khairro. That’s not going to happen anytime soon. That woman hates his guts, he could tell.

Khairro continued reading Eliza’s files until he finished all the documents she had given him. After that, he went back to work ’til it was time to picked up the ordinary innocent bitch. Her words, not his.

Pumunta muna si Khairro sa kompaniya ng ina niya mula sa presinto gamit ang sasakyan saka tinungo ang roof top no’n kung saan nakatigil ang Helicopter niya.

Riding Stronghold, he went to Vargaz’s building.

Nang makarating doon, kaagad siyang sumakay ng elevator at nagpahatid sa palapag kung nasaan ang opisina ni Vargaz. He’d been here a couple of times, so he knew his way around.

When Khairro stepped out from the elevator, he immediately saw Eliza who was sleeping on her desk, her crossed arms as her pillow.

He looked at his wrist watch. It’s just passed five PM. Why is she asleep?

Maingat niyang binuksan ang opisina ni Calyx, wala na ito doon.

Napabaling siya sa dalaga na mahimbing na natutulog. Ang daming nagkalat na papeles sa mesa nito. Maliban sa papeles, may mga tasa sa gilid ng mesa at mga walang lamang cup noodles. Even the ends of her fingers were tainted with ink.

She must’ve been busy all day.

Umupo si Khairro sa visitor’s chair ng mesa ni Eliza saka pinakatitigan ang dalagang mahimbing na natutulog. Not caring about the time he’s wasting looking at her face.

Such a pretty face. Isip ni Khairro habang nakatitig sa maamong mukha ng dalaga. But when she’s awake, she’s like a tigress ready to gnawed at my neck any moment.

Wala sa sariling napatitig si Khairro sa note na nasa gilid ng mesa na may kasamang pera. Ilang libo rin ’yon.

He couldn’t help but to read it.

’ Use this money to eat after you wake up. You didn’t have lunch so make sure you eat a lot. I also added a thousand peso for your dessert. Eat well, amazona.

   - Ang nagpapasahod sayo, Calyx V.' 

That was surprising. Ang buraot na si Vargaz, nagbigay ng pera? Pero buraot lang naman ito sa kanilang magkakaibigan — halos silang lahat naman ganun.

Hmm … He looked at Eliza again and smiled. “Looks like you have a nice boss.” He got up and went to wake Eliza up. “Wake up, Eliza. We’re going to be late for dinner.”

Eliza stirred on her sleep and then raised her middle finger at him. “Go away.”

“Gigising ka o bubuhatin kita?” Pananakot niya sa dalaga.

Eliza just grunted, still showing him her middle finger.

“Don’t be mad at me then.” Aniya saka inilagay sa hand bag nito ang sa tingin niya ay kailangan nitong dalhin saka walang sabi-sabing pinangko niya ito habang nakasukbit sa balikat niya ang hand bag nito.

Khairro was expecting Eliza to throw a fit, but she didn’t, she even leaned on his chest and started snoring softly.

A smile appeared on Khairro’s lips while they’re in the elevator going to the rooftop.

“I’m expecting a thank you for this, Ms. Velasquez.” Aniya habang nakatitig sa mukha ng dalaga habang pang-pangko niya ito. “I’m spoiling you after all.”

Nang makalabas ng elevator, maingat niyang isinakay ang dalaga sa helicopter saka sumakay na rin siya at minaniobra ang Helicopter pataas sa ere.

ELIZA STIRRED on her sleep and slowly blinked her eyes, taking in her surroundings. Nang hindi niya nakita ang lamesa at computer niya, pabalikwas siyang bumangon at mabilis na pinalibot ang tingin.

She’s in a helicopter. She looked at the Pilot — it’s Bagyong Sanford.

She closed her eyes trying to remember what happened. I fell asleep on my desk while working because of exhaustion. After that, everything was hazy. She remembered tukmol waking her up and that’s it.

“Nasaan tayo?” Tanong ni Eliza kay Khairro ng lumapag ang Helicopter sa hindi pamilyar sa kaniyang gusali.

“Let’s eat.” Anito.

Hindi na siya nakipag-argumento. Gutom na rin kasi siya dahil hindi siya nag-lunch dahil sinulit niya na nandito ang boss niya at trinabaho lahat ng pending dahil dito.

Eliza grunted and stepped out of the helicopter.

The wind was blowing wildly so when they entered the elevator, Eliza immediately fixed herself then she yawned afterwards.

“Still sleepy?” Khairro asked while glancing at her.

Eliza yawned again and nodded. “Yeah, where are we anyw—” napatigil sa pagsasalita si Eliza ng makitang inabot ng kamay ni Khairro ang buhok niya at parang may inayos sa gilid niyon.

“Sorry, It’s a bit messy.” Anito saka may inayos ulit sa buhok niya na nasa parteng likuran. “This is the only disadvantage of riding Helicopter. The hair mess, but other than that, it’s cool.”

Eliza was just frozen in place, staring at the elevator’s door. Hindi niya alam kung bakit natulos siya sa kinatatayuan. Nagawa lang niyang gumalaw ng bumukas ang elevator at nauna nang lumabas si Khairro.

At hindi pa nga nasasagot ang pagtataka ni Eliza ng may bago na namang pagtatakang pumasok sa isip niya.

The Restaurant … was empty.

“This way, Ma’am, Sir.” Anang lalaki na Manager ang nakasulat sa name plate.

Eliza was still stunned while walking beside Khairro. Magtatanong sana siya kung anong nasa isip nito at dinala siya nito rito sa Restaurant na walang katao-tao ng igiya sila ng Manager patungo sa isang mesa na ukupado.

Kaagad na tumayo ang babae na nakaupo sa mesa saka sinalubong si Khairro ng yakap.

“My baby boy. How have you been?”

“I’m okay, Mom.” Sagot ni Khairro na may ngiti sa labi.

“You’re late, son.” Anang lalaki na nakaupo sa mesa.

“Sorry, Dad.” Bumaling sa kaniya si Khairro. “Mas sinundo pa kasi ako.”

And because Khairro looked at her, two sets of eyes looked at her as well. Good thing she was used to dealing and talking to people with intimidating aura that she managed to smile and act respectful and professional.

“Eliza, meet my Parents.” Ani Khairro.

Eliza smiled politely even though she wanted to strangle Khairro to death. “Good evening. I’m Eliza Velasquez.” Pagpapakilala niya. “I’m sorry to impose on you like this, I didn’t know Khairro,” she subtly glared at Khairro, “is having dinner with his parents. I apologize. Please, excuse me, Ma’am, Sir.”

Akmang hahakbang na paalis ni Eliza ng magsalita ang ama ni Khairro.

“Wait, young lady.” Pigil nito sa kaniya. “Are you, perhaps, my son’s girlfriend?”

Eliza’s head just got blown up at the question that all she could say was, “huh?”

Then her eyes went to Khairro who just smiled at her and didn’t even correct his parents. Kaya naman pasimple siyang lumapit dito saka pasimple ring bumulong na tanging ang binata lang ang makakarinig.

“If you don’t correct your father now, I will murder you.” Aniya sabay kurot ng manipis at madiin sa likuran nito.

Napangiwi si Khairro habang pilit na inaayos ang bukas ng mukha para hindi makita ng mga magulang nito na namimilipit ito sa sakit. “No, Dad. Eliza is just an acquaintance. A friend of mine ask me to look after her that’s why she’s with me.”

Tinigil na rin ni Eliza ang pagkurot sa likuran ni Khairro saka ngumiti siya sa mga magulang ng binata. “I’m really sorry for intruding. I’ll take my leave now—”

“Why?” Tanong ng ina ni Khairro saka hinawakan pa siya sa braso at giniya paupo sa lamesa. “Even if you’re not Khairro’s girlfriend, you’re welcome to join us.” Umupo ito sa iniwang upuan ng salubungin sila nito, “I’m glad that I’m not the only woman around in this table.”

Eliza just smiled before glancing at Khairro who had a shadow of smile on his lips.

The bastard was clearly enjoying this!

Matitikman mo mamaya ang kamao ko, Bagyong Sanford.

Khairro could feel a murderous aura beside him. He knew it’s Eliza, but he didn’t look at her afraid to see the intent to kill in her eyes.

“Why the fuck did you bring me here?” Eliza was subtly gritting her teeth as she asked Khairro in a low voice.

The Chief had the audacity to glanced at her, smiled and whispered back, “i’m just spoiling you a bit, Ms. Velasquez.”

Eliza’s eyes widened in cringe.

Who the fuck ask this motherfucker to spoil me?! I’ll surely return the favor, motherfucking

Pangit!

Trying to control her huffed of anger, Eliza eat with Khairro and his parents while cursing Khairro in her head.

Murderer, that’s what i’ll be after dinner because I will murder your fucking ass, Khairro Sanford!

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 3

AN URGENT matter came up and Khairro’s parents immediately left after dinner leaving Khairro and Eliza behind. There was a heavy silence between the two. Khairro was clearly trying to sense Eliza’s mood while Eliza was nonchalantly eating her ice cream.

Khairro thought Eliza had calm down because she was clearly enjoying the dessert when suddenly, after she finished her dessert, she picked up the fork and stabbed the plate in the center so hard that it caused the plate to break in half.

For some reason, that sent shiver down Khairro’s spine. No. I’m not scared. I was just startled a little.

Tumikhim si Khairro. “You break your plate…”

“Well,” Eliza smiled at him eerily, “I can’t break your head, can I?”

Khairro didn’t know why his smile was trembling. “Don’t be mad.”

Ang matalim na mata ni Eliza ay tumitig kay Khairro. It was the first time for Khairro to be threatened by a woman and he actually felt threatened!

“Oh. May dapat ba akong ikagalit?”

“I’m sorry I brought you here without your consent.” Ani Khairro ng kumalma na ito saka nagpaliwanag. “It’s just that, I want to make sure you eat healthy food for dinner and since I can’t cancel with my parents, I brought you here with me.”

Matalim pa rin ang mata ni Eliza. “Pasalamat ka masarap ang ice cream nila.”

Khairro smiled. “Want some more?”

“Busog na ako.” Eliza excused herself to burp then she looked at Khairro. “Sa susunod, huwag mo nang gagawin ’to. Palalampasin ko ’to ngayon kasi masarap naman ang pagkain nila rito pero kapag inulit mo pa ’to, siguradong magiging kriminal ako at ikaw ang una kong biktima. Humingi ka ng permiso, gago. Hindi mo ba alam na ‘consent is sexy’? Pangit ka na, hindi ka pa sexy. Ibig sabihin nun, wala kang abs.”

Khairro was just looking at Eliza while talking. He doesn’t even understand what Eliza meant by ‘wala kang abs’, so he lift his shirt on and showed his abs to Eliza.

“I’m pretty sure I have six pack.”

Muntik nang maibuga ni Eliza ang iniinom na tubig dahil nakita mismo ng mga mata niya ang six pack abs ni Khairro. Ang crush niya noon na gago dahil tinanggihan siya.

Maingat niyang inilapag ang baso sa mesa saka nag sign of the cross at umusal ng panalangin. “Mahabaging maykapal, mas higpitan niyo pa po sana ang pagbabantay sa puri ko. Huwag niyo sanang hayaan na magapang iyon ng isang pangit na demonyito.”

“What are you mumbling about?”

“Amen.” Pagtatapos ni Eliza sa pagdarasal saka nag-angat ng tingin kay Khairro. “Wala akong paki kung may abs ka. Para sakin Pangit ka na walang abs.”

Khairro decided to just drop the topic even though it bothers him. There’s no used arguing about it, he’ll just have to show Eliza how handsome and sexy he was. Yeah. That’s the best move.

Pinakatitigan niya ang dalaga na walang pag-aalinlangang sinalubong ang titig niya habang nakataas ang isang kilay nito.

Khairro didn’t know why Eliza’s ‘bitch resting face’ — her words, not his — was so damn sexy.

The confidence in her eyes while staring back at him was unwavering. The way she carry herself, the air around her, she’s definitely an independent woman.

“What?” Eliza asked haughtily.

“I like your confidence.” Ani Khairro. “It’s sexy.”

Slowly, Eliza lost her resting bitch face and and her lips broke into a small smile, “sa lahat ng sinabi mo sakin, ’yan ang pinakanagustuhan ko. Thank you.”

The ‘thank you’ didn’t registered on Khairro’s mind. He was more focus on Eliza’s small smile.

It was sudden and he felt attacked.

So that’s what her smile looks like. Pretty.

Inirapan ni Eliza si Khairro. “Huwag mo akong masyadong titigan. Baka ma-in love ka sakin.”

“There’s nothing wrong with that.” Ani Khairro na nakatitig pa rin kay Eliza. “I’m single, so are you.”

Umiling si Eliza. “I’m not looking for a boyfriend, Chief.”

“You might change your mind.”

Sinalubong ni Eliza ang mga mata ni Khairro. Walang emosyon ang mga mata nito. “I won’t.”

“Is that a challenge, Ms. Velasquez?”

“No. It’s a warning. Please, excuse me.” Eliza stood up and excused herself to go to the restroom.

Nang makapasok si Eliza sa restroom, kaagad niyang isinara ang pinto niyon at humarap siya sa salamin na naroon.

Her eyes were cold and it scared her. It feels like the woman in the mirror was not her at all. Who are you? I don’t know you . Because the eyes of the woman looking back at her was the eyes of a despicable person.

Eliza closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She forced herself to calm down and think of happy thoughts.

A smile on her lips appeared when she thought of Matamis na Lunes— her best friend. The only person in this world who understands her. The only person she trusts. Then her brother … Kuya and Matamis na Lunes loves me. I’m okay.

Eliza took a deep breath again before opening her eyes.

Looking at the mirror again, she smiled at herself. “You’re gonna be okay.” I’m okay. Yes. I’m definitely okay.

She smiled at herself one last time before she stepped out from the restroom to go back to Khairro who was waiting for her on their table.

“I made you uncomfortable, didn’t I?” Ano Khairro ng makabalik siya sa mesa nito. “I’m sorry.”

“Boyfriend. Relationship. Courtship. I don’t like talking about them, so don’t bring it up again or I will really murder you.”

Eliza was dead serious, she’s not just saying it because she’s a self-proclaimed bitch.

“Okay. I won’t.” Ani Khairro. “Sorry about that and I won’t do this without your consent again.”

“Good.”

After that, silence consumed them ’til they finished dinner. Kahit nuong nasa Helicopter na sila patungo sa condo niya, pareho pa rin silang walang imik na dalawa. And Eliza actually preferred it that way.

Silence has always been a comfort for her. Because in silence, she couldn’t harm anyone.

Khairro was bothered after Eliza went silent at dinner. From the Restaurant to her condo, she didn’t speak and it was bothering him. He wanted the bubbly savage Eliza back, not this silent woman beside him who seems lost in thoughts.

Stepping out from the elevator, Khairro stayed beside Eliza as they walked towards her condo unit. Pero malayo pa sila, nakita na niyang bukas ang pinto ng condo nito at may kalalakihang lumabas mula roon.

“Fuck.” Khairro cussed and immediately wrapped his arms around Eliza’s waist and pinned her on the wall to cover her with his body.

Doon nagising ang diwa ni Eliza at nanlaki ang mga mata nito ng makitang malapit na malapit ang mukha ni Khairro sa mukha nito.

Eliza was about to castrate the bastard for pinning her on the wall when Khairro spoke in a low voice. “Men just came out from your room. I’m blocking you from their sight.”

Eliza’s body tensed. Men came out from my room?
Pasimple niyang sinilip ang condo niya at totoo nga ang sinabi ni Khairro. There were four men stepping out from her condo and they’re all menacing and armed.

Bumalik ang atensiyon niya kay Khairro. He was blocking her so she wouldn’t be seen, but it was not enough. Yes, Khairro was mascular but it was still not enough to cover all of her — not only that, they looked suspicious!

Ano ba ang puwedeng gawin para hindi sila tumingin samin?

Seconds after asking that to herself, an idea hit her. It’s from the movie she saw.

“Would that even work?” Pabulong niyang tanong sa sarili.

“What?” Khairro asked in a whisper.

She looked up at Khairro and shamelessly said, “hey, kiss me.”

The Chief in front of her froze and Eliza had no time to ask Khairro again because the men are approaching and they are all eyeing them suspiciously. Khairro was not allowed to start a shoot out because he’s not on duty and he’s not even carrying a freaking gun!

“Shit!” Eliza hissed and wound her arms around Khairro’s neck then he pressed her lips on his.

Plano ni Eliza ay simpleng halik lang hanggang sa lampasan sila ng kalalakihan, pero ang gago bumuka ang mga labi at mapusok siyang hinalikan. Oo. May pa-dila ang gago. At hindi lang yon simpleng pa-dila, gumagalaw ang dila nito sa loob ng bibig niya na naghahatid ng kakaibang kiliti sa katawan niya.

Oh, Lord! Ang puri ko!

Eliza doesn’t want to get carried away by Khairro’s kisses, but damn it to hell, the guy was a damn good kisser and Eliza was not the kind of woman to shy away from pleasure so she kissed him back.

It’s just a kiss after all. Just a kiss.

She moved her lips against Khairro and they french kiss the daylight out of each other ’till they could no longer breath.

Pareho silang hinihingal na naghiwalay ang mga labi at napatitig sa isa’t-isa, kapagkuwan ay sabay silang napabaling sa condo niya.

“Shit!” Eliza hissed and ran towards her condo only to see all her things scattered on the floor, broken pieces of glass everywhere and before she could enter her condo, a searing pain consumed her head, flashes of scenes filling her memory — the same with her condo, there were also broken things and glass but the difference was there’s blood everywhere and there’s a body lying on the floor — dead.

Sapo-sapo ang ulo na napasigaw nalang siya sa sakit at takot sa nakikita. And before she could pull herself together, she passed out.

WHEN ELIZA opened her eyes again, she was in an unfamiliar room with a familiar masculine scent. What happened to me? With that question in her head, memories of what happened in her apartment came flooding in.

The blood … the dead body … was that her dream? Was it even a dream? Maybe it really happened to her and she couldn’t remember because she lost her memories when she was in High School due to an accident.

Well, at least that’s what her mother said, but she doesn’t believe her. There was no record of her being in an accident, but something definitely happened to her and it’s buried deep in her memories that had became her dreams — or nightmares.

Should I ask Kuya? But he has too much on his plate right now, with the bad guys and all that.

Bumangon si Eliza sa pagkakahiga saka umalis ng kama at malalaki ang hakbang na lumabas ng kuwarto. She was still kind of weak but she doesn’t even know where she was. Maybe Pangit took care of me.

She stepped out from the room and she immediately saw a photo of The Chief together with his family hanging on the wall.

Well, what do you know … nasa bahay ako ng crush ko dati. My past self would kill for this opportunity.

Bumuga siya ng marahas na hininga saka hinanap ang may-ari ng bahay.

She was not a stalker but she knew that Khairro owned three houses under his name. A house in BV, a condo unit and a vacation house. Yes. I’m not a stalker. I just know things.

Natagpuan niya ang binata sa salas. Naglilinis ito ng baril habang magkasalubong ang kilay at panay tagis ng bagang. At mukhang kaagad nitong naramdaman ang presensiya niya dahil tumingin ito sa gawi niya.

“You’re awake…” he looked relieved.

“Yeah.” Tinungo niya ang sala saka umupo sa pang-isahang sofa na nasa gilid habang si Khairro naman ay nakaupo sa mahabang sofa.

Khairro stared at her for a couple of seconds, “how are you feeling?”

Instead of answering, she asked. “Anong nangyari sa condo ko?”

Himigpit ang hawak ng binata sa baril na nililinis nito. “It was turn upside down. I’m already tracking the men who did it. Don’t worry, It won’t happen again.”

“Where are we?” Tanong ulit niya.

“My condo.”

Eliza looked around. “Puwede ba akong umuwi sa condo ko ngayon?”

Umiling si Khairro. “It’s still dangerous. Stay here for now.” Tinuro nito ang kuwartong pinanggalingan niya. “I only have one room here though, so you take my bed. I’ll sleep here in the living room.”

“Okay.” Eliza didn’t argue. She’s in danger and Khairro will protect her. Yan lang ang mahalaga sa kaniya ngayon. “Sinabi mo ba kay Kuya ang nangyari?”

“No, I didn’t.” Anito habang patuloy na nililinis ang baril, “pinagkatiwala ka niya sakin, gagawin ko ng maayos ang trabaho ko.”

Bumuntong-hininga si Eliza. “Paano ang trabaho ko? Puwede pa naman akong pumasok, diba?”

“Call your boss. Tell him you’re taking a week leave.”

“Pero—”

“Eliza,” tumingin ito sa mga mata niya, “kung ipipilit mong pumasok sa trabaho, hindi lang sarili mo ang ipapahamak mo kundi ang mga taong nakapaligid sayo. Just give me one week. I’ll make sure that they will never bother you again.”

Naiintindihan ni Eliza ang rason ni Khairro kaya hindi na siya nagpumilit pa. “Kung mananatili ako rito sa condo mo, paano ang pamalit ko ng damit?”

“I’ll get your things in your condo tomorrow.” Anito saka nag-umpisa nang i-assemble ang baril na nililinis nito, “for now, use my clothes. I have new ones in my closet. Kumuha ka nalang do’n. I won’t mind.”

Doon tumaas ang kilay niya. “Paano ko masisiguro na bago ang mapipili ko?”

“Amuyin mo.”

Pasimpleng napahawak siya sa pagkababae niya. “Paano ang underwear ko? I’m not comfortable wearing the same thing tonight.”

Bahagyang natigilan si Khairro saka tumikhim ito. “My b-boxers … yeah, use those.”

“Bago ba?”

“Yeah.”

“Okay. That’ll do.”

Tumikhim ulit si Khairro bago nagsalita. “Anyway, could you list everything you need for a week then send it to me? I’ll buy them for you tomorrow.”

“Sige, mamaya.”

Napuno ng katahimikan ang salas bago binasag iyon ni Khairro sa pamamagitan ng pag-abot sa kaniya ng baril na katatapos lang nitong linisin. “Here. Do you know how to use this?”

Napakurap-kurap si Eliza sa baril na iniabot ni Khairro sa kaniya. “Kind of.”

“That’s good enough. Take it.” Seryosong-seryoso ito. “I’m giving you this because there are times that I won’t be by your side to protect you. When that happens and they try to harm you, use this to protect yourself.”

Tinanggap ni Eliza ang baril. Rather than feeling surprised because Khairro gave her a gun, she was actually pleased that he did. That means he doesn’t see her as a weak woman, but a strong woman who can use the gun to protect her self.

Eliza looked at Khairro. You’re not so bad after all.

Tumayo si Khairro at umalis sa salas, pero kaagad itong bumalik at may hawak-hawak na itong mga papeles.

“Here.” Inabot nito iyon sa kaniya. “The manual guide to my condo.”

Tumaas ang kilay niya. “Manual guide? Like, tech stuff?

“Yeah.”

“Masyadong high-tech ang bahay mo na kailangan ng manual guide?” Mangha niyang tanong sa binata.

Finally, Khairro smiled. “Don’t stay up late.” Anito saka nahiga sa sofa. “Tulog na ako. Maaga pa ako bukas. Good night, Eliza.”

When Khairro closed his eyes, Eliza went back to Khairro’s room while carrying the gun and the manual guide.

Sitting on the edge of the bed, Eliza started reading the manual guide to Khairro’s condo and each time she flipped a page, she’s getting more bewildered.

“Just what kind of a house is this?” Napapangastikuhan niyang tanong ng matapos niyang basahin ang manual guide.

Every part of this house was high tech and it runs in voice command!

Gaano ba kayaman ang tukmol na ’yon? This was unbelievable!

Dala-dala ang manual guide, tinungo ni Eliza ang closet ni Khairro. It was a walk in closet and it can’t be open by just pulling the door open like normal doors. It’s in voice command.

“Let’s see … “ Eliza flipped the pages of the manual guide until she found the ‘Closet’. “Hmm … it says here that … “ She looked at closet’s door and uttered, “open closet.”

Something beeped on the side of the Closet’s door. It’s a device and it spoke with it’s computerize voice.

“Password?”

Kumunot ang nuo ni Eliza. “The fuck?”

“Wrong password. Please try again.”

Napatanga siya sa pintuan na kaharap. “Nangangain yata ng tanga itong condo ni Pangit.”

“Wrong password. Please try again.”

Gago

rin ’tong password chuchu device na ’to. Tulad ng may-ari ng condo.

Eliza flipped the pages again, looking for the password ’till she saw what’s written on the back of the manual guide.

PASSWORD: Khairro is handsome.

Hindi alam ni Eliza bakit nagtaasan ang mga balahibo. Isang bagyo talaga ang tukmol na ’yon. Ang hangin!

Tumikhim si Eliza saka nagsalita. “Khairro is handsome.” After saying that, she cringed the same moment the door to the closet opened. “That was horrible!”

She tsked and stepped inside. Automatically, the lights turned on and she was blown away by Khairro’s closet.

“This is way bigger than my room in my condo. Shit!” Pinalibot niya ang tingin sa closet. “Ang yaman pala nitong crush ko noon. Ang galing ko talagang mamili ng magugustuhan. Pero nakakagago dahil hindi niya tinanggap ang aking pagsinta.”

Eliza stilled at what she just said and shuddered. “So cringe.”

Naiiling na pinagalaw niya ang mga paa para maghanap ng bagong damit na puwede niyang suotin.

“Hmm … ang bango naman ng closet na ’to, nang-aakit ng puri ang bango.” Aniya saka binuksan ang mga drawers para maghanap ng bagong boxers.

And she immediately found the piece of clothing that hides Khairro’s friend down there.

“Hmm… paano ko malalaman kung bago? Aamuyin ko rin?” Nanlaki ang mga mata ni Eliza saka nasapo ang mukha, “shit… hindi ba ako magmumukhang manyak kung aamuyin ko ang mga ’to isa-isa?” Biglang nag-init ang mukha ni Eliza saka napatingala siya sa kisame. “Goodness, Lord, is this a test of courage to not be swept away by bad spirit namely Khairro Sanford?”

Eliza blows a loud breath before picking up one boxer then she sniffed it. Yes! She freaking sniffed it the waistband. Yes, only the waistband.

“Oh. This is not new, newly washed though.” She immediately drop it and went to sniff another one until she found the ‘i’m new from the store’ scent. “This is the one.”

Kaagad niyang isinara ang drawer at naghanap siya ng t-shirt. Good thing she immediately found a new shirt without smelling Khairro’s other shirts.

“Yey!” Gusto niyang magtatalon sa tuwa. “I survived! Yaz! I won!” She gleefully said before leaving the closet, “now,” she looked at the bathroom’s door. “To the bathroom.”

Pumasok siya sa banyo at medyo nalula siya sa gara niyon. Yes, nakakalula na masakit na sa mata. Just like the closet, the bathroom was two times bigger than her room and it’s so clean and smells great too.

“Shit. Anong klaseng banyo ’to, puwede akong matulog dito.” Tinungo ni Eliza ang shower na nasa ceiling ang shower head. “Oh. It’s the rain shower. Nice.”

Ini-lock muna ni Eliza ang pintuan ng banyo bago naghubad lahat ng damit at tumayo sa ilalim ng rain shower pero walang lumabas na tubig.

“How do you open this shit again?” Tanong ni Eliza sa sarili habang inaalala ang nabasa sa manual guide. “Khairro is handsome?” Aniya baka lang naman gumana. Ipo-ipo kasi ang tukmol na ’yon.

Sadly, it didn’t work.

Eliza sighed then he looked around. Ni wala siyang makitang button na puwedeng pindutin o kaya handle na nagko-kontrol sa shower.

“Ano ba naman ’to,” naiirita na si Eliza. “Why the hell is this shower not pour—”

The shower turned on and water fell.

Napatanga si Eliza. So the magic word is ‘pour’. Yes, nangangain ng tanga itong condo ni Tukmol.

Eliza quickly finished taking a bath. Good thing there’s shampoo and shower gel inside the shower room — though she’ll have the same scent as Khairro. Who cares? Hygiene is important.

Eliza sighed heavily as she wrapped herself in a towel. “I never thought showering could be this exhausting…”

Lumabas siya ng banyo pagkatapos niyang i-blow-dry ang buhok saka sinuot ang damit ni Khairro. At dahil hindi niya kayang umulit ng bra, wala siyang bra na suot ngayon.

“Great.” She muttered while looking at her breast. They’re not small, but not big either. Tama lang ang size no’n at dahil malaki naman ang t-shirt ni Khairro, hindi ’yon masyadong kita. “Salamat naman.”

Speaking of that guy …

Kinuha ni Eliza ang isang unan sa kama at naghanap siya ng bagong kumot sa closet nito saka lumabas ng kuwarto.

I need to take care of him since he’s protecting me and all. Yeah, that’s all there is to this.

The living room was in dim light but it was enough to see Khairro. He was already fast asleep while laying on his side.

Nilapitan ni Eliza ang binata saka maingat na ini-angat ang ulo nito para mailagay niya ang unan saka kinumotan niya ito. Kapagkuwan ay wala sa sariling napatitig siya sa mukha ni Khairro.

Eliza’s face softened. “Thank you for protecting me.” She, then, pressed her lips on Khairro’s forehead. “Good night, Captain.”

Then Eliza stood up and went back to Khairro’s room in a dazed. “I can’t believe I kissed his forehead…” Eliza was in shock, she just stood there in the middle of the room.

And I kissed him outside my condo

too.

“Oh my God, Eliza, what were you thinking? Hindi ba nagkaroon ka ng crush trauma dahil sa kaniya?” Pagkausap niya sa sarili. “Self, katawan ko,” niyakap niya ang sarili, “parang awa mo na, huwag kang lumandi. Masasaktan ka lang. Sapat nang ma-reject ako ng isang beses. Ayoko nang masundan ’yon.”

Once is enough, twice is too much. I won’t let the same flame burn me twice.

Saying that but she french kissed the guy. Goodness! Good thing Khairro didn’t brought the kiss up.

Pabagsak na nahiga si Eliza sa kama saka napatitig sa kisame. Buti hindi siya nagising sa ginawa ko. That would have been so embarrassing.

That was what Eliza thought and it made her feel at ease and sleep soundly, but what she didn’t know was that when she left the living room, Khairro who woke up when Eliza lift his head opened his eyes.

Yes, Captain Khairro Sanford was awake with a small smile on his lips.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 4

AFTER KHAIRRO’S duty, instead of heading home like he used to, he went to Eliza’s condo to get some of her clothes then he went to the nearest Grocery store to buy all the things Eliza needed for a week.

Eliza texted him all the things she needed earlier this morning and it was a long freaking list.

And after scouring the whole grocery to get everything on Eliza’s list, he’s now on the essentials for women.

Khairro looked at the list on his phone. “Feminine wash.” Basa niya sa dapat niyang bilhin saka tumingin sa mga feminine wash na nasa harapan niya. Damn. So many variants. With scents.

Damn it! Kumuha siya ng isa-isa sa lahat ng feminine wash brand na nasa harapan saka ang katabi naman niyon ang binigyan niya ng pansin — ang sanitary pads.

Wait — tiningnan niya ang listahan. It says here panty liner. How the fuck would I know that?

At dahil wala siyang ideya kung ano ’yon, hinanap niya iyon sa Google. Seconds later, there it was — what panty liner looked like.

“Oh … so that’s what it is …” he mumbled before looking for panty liners and he was so relieved when he found one.

I never thought I’ll be shopping for a woman though.

“What’s next?” Khairro looked at Eliza’s list. “Chocolates.”

That’s easy. Kaagad niyang tinungo ang chocolate section at inilagay lahat ng chocolate na nakita. Ten pieces per product. Bibili nalang ako ulit kapag hindi pa ’to sapat sa kaniya.

“Why am I trying to please her anyway?” Pabulong niyang tanong sa sarili. Knight will kill me for sure if I touch her. He had to be professional. No fooling around. This was the first time that Velasquez asked for assistance, he can’t disappoint a friend. I already disappointed Beckett, good thing that motherfucker is alive though.

Pero kahit buhay ito, dala-dala pa rin niya ang guilt na hindi siya dumating ng maaga para mailigtas ito. Even now, he still couldn’t forgive himself for what happened.

“… that would be 8,345, Sir.”

That brought Khairro back from his reverie and he immediately handed his credit card to the cashier to pay.

“Thank you.” Aniya ng ibalik sa kaniya ng cashier ang credit card niya saka inabot sa kaniya ang mga pinamili na pinalagay niya sa eco bag.

Nang makalabas ng grocery, kaagad niyang tinungo ang sasakyan at nagmaneho patungo sa condo niya. The traffic was excruciating, good thing he arrived at his condo before dinner.

I have to cook our dinner. I should’ve bought take out.

After passing the fingerprint and retina scan locked on his condo’s door, he entered and immediately saw Eliza lounging on the sofa while drawing something on the paper.

“Hey.” Khairro said to announced his presence.

“Hey,” Tugon ni Eliza habang nakatutok pa rin ang mata sa dinu-drawing nito. “Welcome home.”

Two words and it made Khairro stilled while staring at Eliza. It has something to do with the way she said it, it was welcoming and it feels homey and warm. He’d been living alone for years now and it felt nice.

Khairro blinked enumerable times before walking towards the living room. “Here.” Inilapag niya sa tabi ni Eliza ang tatlong eco bag. “Nandiyan lahat ng pinabili mo at ang mga damit mo na kinuha ko sa condo mo.”

“Thanks.” Eliza was still focused on her drawing. “Dinner’s ready by the way.”

That put a small smile on his lips. Wh

y

does it feels nice to hear that?

Khairro took a deep breath and looked at Eliza’s drawing from behind. “Who is that?”

Hindi umaasa si Khairro na sasagot si Eliza kaya nagulat siya ng sumagot ito.

“My father.” Anito. “Well … I think it’s him. I don’t remember him clearly though.”

Tinitigan ulit niya ang ginuhit ni Eliza. “He looks strict.”

“Yeah.” Eliza sighed. “Isang beses ko lang siyang nakita mula ng mawala ang memorya ko at hindi pa naging maayos ’yon at hindi ko siya nakausap.”

Gulat na napatitig si Khairro kay Eliza. “You have amnesia?”

“Yeah. It’s selective. I remember a little though.” She blows a loud breath and dropped her drawing on the center table before looking at him. “Let’s eat?”

He blinked at Eliza. “Hindi ka pa kumakain?”

Inirapan siya ng dalaga. “You know, Pangit, I’m a bitch and all, but I know my place. This is not my house and you’re paying for the food that’s why I cooked and waited for you. That’s common courtesy.”

That made Khairro smiled. “Thank you.”

Kaagad na nalukot ang mukha ng dalaga ng ngumiti siya. “Huwag kang ngumiti. Nasisilaw ako.”

Mahina siyang natawa. “Really? Am I shining in your eyes?”

Eliza tsked. “Don’t get into my nerves, Pangit. I’ll shoot you. I have a gun you know.”

Tumawa lang si Khairro saka nauna na sa hapag-kainan.

Eliza just watched Khairro set the table. Medyo may pagkamangha siyang naramdaman dahil alam niyang mayaman ito — hindi lang basta mayaman. Seeing his condo and all, she knew he’s very rich. That’s why seeing him being domestic was surprising and refreshing at the same time.

Pinatunayan lang sa kaniya ni Pangit na hindi lahat ng mayayaman, hindi marunong sa gawaing bahay.

Ang galing ko talagang pumili ng crush. Kaso basted ako. Lihim siyang napailing sa sarili bago umupo sa hapag-kainan.

“Were you bored here?” Tanong ni Khairro kay Eliza ng kumakain na sila.

Eliza snorted. “Bored? In this condo? No way. I was exploring the whole day! So many new things to try like your bed for example. I found out today that a TV comes out on the edge of the bed using voice command. Not only that, even changing channels is voice command. It was so awesome. Pero nakakatanga minsan.”

Khairro let out a chuckle. “Buti naman hindi ka na-bored.”

“Pero nangangain ng tanga itong condo mo, Pangit.” Ani Eliza saka uminom ng tubig. “Tapos ang gago lang ng password mo kaya pinalitan ko.”

Natigilan si Khairro sa pagnguya. “Pinalitan mo?”

“Yep.” Eliza smirked. “I read that manual guide from start to finish so of course I know how to change it. Aren’t I awesome?”

May kabang naramdaman si Khairro. “At anong ipinalit mong password?”

Eliza grinned innocently at him. “You guess…”

He already guessed what it was. “Fuck.”

Kaagad na sumama ang mukha ni Eliza. “You can cursed but not in front of the food. Magagalit si Lord at magiging baog ka.”

“At paano naging konektado ang dalawang ’yon?”

“Basta lang.” Inirapan ni Eliza si Khairro. “Gusto mong mabaog?”

“Nope.”

“Then don’t curse in front of the blessing.”

Khairro chuckled. “Okay. I won’t.”

“Good.” Eliza glanced at Khairro, “by the way, nahanap mo na ’yong nanloob sa condo ko?”

“My friend is already looking for them.”

Eliza was relieved. “Buti naman. I want to go back to my uneventful life.”

Napatitig si Khairro sa dalaga. “After this mess is resolved, can we be friends?”

Natigilang napatingin si Eliza kay Khairro. “Bakit?”

“Can’t we at least be friends?”

Friends with my ex-crush? Is that even possible? “Ayoko.”

“Why?”

“Kasi manganganib sayo ang puri ko.” Inirapan ni Eliza si Khairro na nakatanga sa dalaga. “Pangit ka pero nakakaakit ka pa rin tapos kapag ngumingiti ka, nakakasilaw, masakit sa mata, kaya ayoko.”

Khairro was amused at Eliza. “Pangit ako pero nakakaakit? Hmm … how does that even work?”

“Ah, basta! ’Yon na ’yon.” Eliza tsked. “This is real talk, so listen well. Kaunti lang ang kaibigan na hindi nagkaka ibigan at ayokong magka ibigan tayo dahil ayoko ng boyfriend. Ayoko ng sakit sa ulo. Ayoko ng stress. I had relationships before and trust me, they’re all waste of my time and I regret being involve with them. And you,” iminuwestra pa ni Eliza ang kamay kay Khairro, “look at you, napaka-impossible na hindi ako magkagusto sayo kapag matagal na tayong magkakilala. Kaya bago pa mangyari ’yon, iiwas na ako para walang sakit sa ulo—”

“In short you’re attracted to me.” Khairro said with a sexy smirk a smug glint in his eyes.

“Nope.” Eliza replied calmly. “Masyado kang advance mag-isip, Pangit. Kung gusto kita, sasabihin ko kaagad sayo. Hindi ako shy-type na babae, no.”

“Is that so?” Khairro smiled. “Then I’ll ready my ‘I like you too’ response — just in case you confess.”

Eliza snorted. “Not going to happen. Ayoko sayo.”

“But you’re attracted to me.” Khairro said like he was really sure of it.

“I am not!” Eliza hissed.

Khairro let out a short laughed. “You do know that you sounded so defensive just now.”

“Nope.”

Khairro grinned. “You like me, admit it. You even kissed me.”

“I kissed you because I have no choice in the matter and I want to protect myself from those men—”

“You kissed me back.” Khairro said in a teasing voice.

“Yes, I did, but it doesn’t mean anything. And it’s just a kiss.”

“Is that so?” Tumiim ang titig ni Khairro kay Eliza. “So If I kiss you right now, you won’t mind?”

Eliza froze. “At bakit mo naman ako hahalikan?”

Khairro shrugged. “As you said, it’s just a kiss. It doesn’t mean anything. So let’s prove it.”

Eliza sighed and looked at Khairro, “isa ka talagang pangit na gago.” Pagkasabi niyon ay dumukwang siya palapit sa binata saka hinalikan ito sa mga labi pero kaagad ding binigyang distansiya ang mga labi nila. “There. Proof. It doesn’t mean anything.”

“It’s not even a kiss, that’s peck on the lips.”

“Nope. It’s a kiss.”

Khairro sighed and before Eliza knew it, Khairro leaned in, captured her mouth with his and snaked his tongue inside her mouth.

Eliza actually gasped at the invasion of Khairro’s tongue inside her, but her eyes started dropping close when Khairro started nibbling her lips, sucking her tongue and exploring her mouth like he was looking for something tasty inside.

It feels good.

Eliza knew she should pushed Khairro away… but he’s a damn good kisser and she easily surrendered her lips to him.

Push him away, idiot! Her mind was shouting at her, but her body was not cooperating with her mind because she found herself kissing Khairro back.

Lips nibbling, tongue sucking and french kissing. Their lips remain locked at each other until they couldn’t breath anymore and was forced to pull away.

Then their eyes met, both panting.

Slowly, Eliza’s rational thoughts were coming back now that her lips were free, but it froze when she saw Khairro licking his own lips sexily while staring intently at her lips.

She gulped. What with this man? How can be so freaking sexy? At ako naman … ang rupok-rupok ko. Shit ka self! Shit ka! She should’ve known better.

“Eliza—”

“Hindi ako marupok!” Bigla niyang sigaw sa sarili na ikinagulat ni Khairro saka dinuro niya ang binata. “And it’s just a kiss. Nothing more.” Pagkasabi no’n ay umalis siya ng hapagkainan at pumasok sa kuwarto ni Khairro saka padapang nahiga sa kama.

Gustong sumigaw ni Eliza sa frustrasyon. I kissed him back again! Argh! Fuck it! Hindi ako marupok pero tang’na naman.

Frustrated, Eliza called Matamis na Lunes.

“Hi, Eli.” Matamis na Lunes sounded sweet as usual. “How’s your day?”

“Aaarrrggh!” She screamed while covering her mouth with a pillow. “My day is full of karupukan, Matamis na Lunes! Anong gagawin ko, ha? Bakit kasi nasa bahay ako ngayon ng Pangit na ’yon? Hayun tulay, bumabalik ang nakaraan. Tang’ina talaga!”

Napangiwi naman si SM sa pagmumura ni Eli. “Calm down, Eli. Tell me what exactly happened that made you so pissed.”

“Ganito kasi ’yon…” Eliza, then started telling Matamis na Lunes about what happened since Mr. Chief of Police entered her life again ’til what happened earlier, “you see, Matamis na Lunes, because of him, i’m turning back into my old self again. Ayoko nang maging tanga! Ayokong maging marupok! Ayoko!”

SM took a deep breath, understanding Eli’s side. “I think you still like him, Eli.”

Nanlaki ang mga mata ni Eliza. “Hell no!”

“Eli, listen to me. Para sakin, hindi ka naman ginawang tanga noon ni Captain Sanford. When you confessed, he rejected you and that’s it. Hindi ka niya pinaasa, hindi ka niya pinagmukhang tanga, hindi ka niya pinahiya at higit sa lahat, hindi ka niya niloko. It just so happened that he rejected you flat out which was a good thing instead of leading you on, don’t you think?”

Natahimik si Eliza dahil alam niyang may punto si Matamis na Lunes.

“At tungkol naman sa pagiging marupok mo, normal lang naman ’yon kapag gusto mo ang isang tao.” Ani Matamis na Lunes. “Hindi naman maiiwasan na maging marupok ka. Ang mahalaga hindi niya ginagamit ’yon para saktan ka. At kung ayaw mo talagang maging marupok, kontrolin mo ang sarili mo. Ilagay mo sa lugar ang karupukan mo. That’s the only way, Eli.”

Eliza pulled herself into a fetus position on the bed. “Pero wala na akong gusto sa kaniya…” pabulong niyang sabi.

“Really?” It was just one word but Matamis na Lunes’ tone said it all.

“Anong gagawin ko?” Parang nagmamakaawa na tanong ni Eliza. “He’s protecting me. I just can’t up and leave.”

“Why not let things unfold in their own?” SM suggested. “Kahit naman anong gawin mo, kung gusto mo siya, gusto mo siya. Hindi mo matatakasan ’yon.”

Eliza groaned in frustration. “When we kissed earlier, I got so turned on, Matamis na Lunes. Anong gagawin ko? Ayokong makipaghalikan ulit sa pangit na ’yon, pero kasi, masarap humalik ang gago. Nadarang tuloy ako tapos natutukso ang puri ko.”

Mahinang natawa si SM. “Pahinga ka nalang para bukas may lakas ka ulit na labanan ang tukso.”

“Thank you, Matamis na Lunes.” Eli smiled. “You’re really a godsend.”

“Welcome, Eli. Rest well.”

“You too.”

After the two bid goodbye, Eliza looked at the ceiling ’til she heard a knock on the door.

Kaagad siyang napatingin sa pintuan ng marinig niya ang boses ni Pangit sa labas.

“Can I come in?”

“Why is he asking?” Eliza mumbled. “It’s his room.”

“Eliza?” Tawag nito sa kaniya ng hindi niya ito sinagot.

Eliza blows a loud breath before pulling herself to sit on the center of the bed and wrapped the comforter around her body, only her head was on show. “Pasok!”

Nang marinig iyon ni Khairro, pinihit niya pabukas ang pinto at tinulak iyon saka pumasok. He immediately stilled and frowned when he saw Eliza on the bed wrapped in comforter and only her head was on show and she was looking at him like he did an unforgivable crime and she’s the victim. But she still looked adorable because she had this cute pout while glaring at him.

“I’m going to take a bath.” Imporma niya rito.

“Bakit mo sinasabi sakin?” Mataray nitong tanong. “Dala ko ba ang banyo?”

“I’m just informing you so you won’t glare at me that much.”

Eliza tsked. “I’m not glaring at you because of that — it’s because of the kiss! How dare you kissed me! Don’t you know what consent meant?!”

Napatigil sa pagpasok si Khairro sa walk-in closet saka humarap kay Eliza. “For your information, you kissed me first.”

Natigilan si Eliza saka inirapan si Khairro. “Kahit na. Gago ka pa rin. Ayoko sayo. I hate you.”

Sa halip na mainis, natatawa nalang si Khairro sa inaasal ni Eliza. She looked so cute while sulking and being angry at the same time.

“Open closet.” Ani Sanford at kaagad siyang hiningan ng password.

Since Eliza changed it, it’s not Khairro is handsome anymore, bur he already knew what it was.

“Khairro is pangit.” Aniya na bagsak ang balikat.

“Wrong password.”

Kumunot ang nuo niya saka nilingon si Eliza na tumatawa ng patago sa loob ng comforter.

Khairro faced his closet again and said, “Khairro is pangit na, wala pang abs.”

… and the closet opened.

Nilingon ni Khairro si Eliza. “Happy?”

Laughing, Eliza nodded. “Yep.”

Napailing nalang si Khairro saka pumasok ng closet para kumuha ng damit pagkatapos ay lumabas siya at tinungo ang banyo para maligo.

After taking a bath, he was about to wrapped the towel around his waist and go out but he remembered Eliza. He’s not alone in his room anymore. He had a guest.

Sighing, he changed in the bathroom before stepping out while drying his hair. He was feeling lazy to used the blow dryer.

“Sa salas ka ulit matutulog?” Tanong ni Eliza ng makalabas siya ng banyo.

“Yeah.” Isinampay niya ang towel sa balikat saka humarap sa dalaga. “Why?”

Eliza looked at the bed and at him. “You can sleep here if you want.”

That made him raised his eyebrows. “Really?”

“Yeah, it’s big anyway. At breakfast this morning you were massaging your neck and back right? It’s uncomfortable sleeping on the sofa, so…”

Napatitig siya kay Eliza. He doesn’t really get her. Sometimes she’s annoyed, most of the times savage but there are times that she’s nice. I wonder what goes on in her head.

“Sure. I’ll sleep here.” Ani Khairro.

“Okay.” Eliza moved to the edge of the left side of the bed and laid on the bed while still wrapped with comforter. “Good night — ay, shit, magto-toothbrush pa ako.” Mabilis itong umalis sa pagkakapulupot ng comforter at tumakbo patungong banyo.

Mahinang natawa si Khairro kapagkuwan ay napatitig sa kama.

Oo nga at malapad ’yon pero ito ang unang beses na matutulog siyang may katabi. Well, except for Ruth, but she’s his best friend so she doesn’t count. Of course he had his fair shares of woman and one night stands before but it’s his rule not to bring them to his condo and not to sleep with them on the same bed ’til morning.

Khairro took a deep breath. “I wonder what will happen since that kiss felt really good…”

Napatingin siya kay Eliza ng makalabas ito ng banyo saka pinulupot ulit nito ang sarili sa comforter bago nahiga sa kama.

“Are you sure it’s okay?” He asked her again.

“Yeah.” Sagot ni Eliza saka tuluyan nang ipinasok ang buong katawan sa loob ng comforter.

Khairro took off his shirt and throws it on the sofa nearby and walked towards his bed. “Nakakahinga ka pa ba sa ginagawa mo?”

“Paki mo.”

Napailing nalang si Khairro saka nahiga sa kama. Ah… I miss my bed . Khairro glanced at Eliza who still hadn’t move since he laid on the bed. “You okay in there?”

Sa halip na sumagot, biglang kumalas si Eliza sa nakapalibot ditong comforter at naupo sa kama. “Shit! Hindi ako makahinga.”

“I told you so.”

Eliza immediately sent him a dagger look. “Tinatanong ba kita — teka, ba’t wala kang suot ng pang-itaas.”

“This is how i sleep and anyway, I’m just worried about you.”

Umingos lang ang dalaga saka nahiga ulit, sa pagkakataong ito ay nakatagilid na ito at nakaharap sa kaniya. “Huwag mo akong gapangin, Pangit, ha?”

Amusement danced in Khairro’s eyes. “I’m a gentleman, Eliza.”

Nalukot lang ang mukha nito pero hindi ito nagsalita at nanatiling nakatitig sa kaniya. And the way she stared at him, it’s intimidating. Like she’s looking for something wrong with him.

“See something you like?” Khairro asked teasingly.

Inirapan siya ng dalaga na halata sa mata na inaantok na saka umayos ng higa. “Wala akong suot na contacts kaya blurred ang mukha mo. Thank God for that.”

Khairro laughed. “So that’s why you were staring at me so intently.”

Eliza yawned, she looked so sleepy. “Masyado kang bilib sa sarili mo, Pangit. Mahangin ka pa. Dadagdagan ko na ang weather forecast ko sayo. Bagyong Sanford, Signal number 5. Malakas na hangin, maraming dalang ulan na may kasamang kidlat, pagbaha, pagguho ng lupa at pagtaas ng tubig.”

Khairro chuckled. “I’ll take that as a compliment.”

Eliza scowled. “You’re so weird.”

“You’re weird too.”

“Hmm.” She yawned again and her eyes started closing, “I hate you.”

“Why is that?”

“You broke my heart.” Eliza said it in a whisper and in a slurred voice because she was falling asleep but Khairro heard her clearly.

“I broke your heart?” Hindi makapaniwala at nagtatakang tanong ni Khairro kay Eliza na mukhang tulog na. “When?”

Khairro thought Eliza wouldn’t answer him because she was already asleep but she mumbled something he couldn’t quite hear.

Inilapit ni Khairro ang tainga sa dalaga. “What did you say?” He wanted to know.

Eliza mumbled something again.

“What?”

Eliza mumbled again and this time, it was a bit clear. “Fuck you, Khairro.”

Khairro stilled and looked at the sleeping woman. The way she said it, he could hear resentment in her voice. “I don’t remember breaking your heart, Eliza.”

Umayos ng higa si Khairro habang nakatingin pa rin kay Eliza na mahimbing nang natutulog. He was trying really hard to remember her, but he couldn’t. He always had a good memory so if he really did broke her heart, he’d remember.

Eliza had a face that was not easy to forget. So why can’t I remember breaking her heart?

And if that was true, what was he thinking?

Bumangon si Khairro at kinuha ang cellphone na naiwan sa kusina para tawagan ang mandurugas nilang kaibigan, si Shun Kim.

Khairro sighed before dialling Shun’s number. I should ready my bank account for this motherfucker.

The other line picked up and spoke grumpily. “This better be good, Sanford.”

“Could you check something for me?”

Kaagad na nag-iba ang boses ni Shun. From grumpy to interested. “Sure. That’ll cost you two million and additional depends on the information you need.”

Napailing nalang si Sanford. “Yeah. Sure.”

“So … what’s her name?”

“Eliza Velasquez.”

Ilang segundong natahimik si Shun sa kabilang linya bago nagsalita. “Knight will kill you.”

“Yeah, I know.”

“Then it’s two million and a casket.” Ani Shun na mukhang nasisiyahan pa. “Still interested?”

Khairro took a deep breath and smiled. “Hell, yeah.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 5

NAPATINGIN SI Khairro sa gusali na nasa harapan niya ng makalabas siya ng sasakyan niya pagkatapos niyang i-park ’yon. The building in front of him was a rehabilitation center and he’s here to visit one of his friends.

He took a deep breath before entering the facility.

I hope he’s doing okay now . Khairro thought as he waited for Andrius in the visiting area.

“Hey…” Ani Andrius ng makapasok sa visiting area at nakita siya. Kumaway pa ito habang may munting ngiti sa mga labi.

“Hey, man.” Khairro stood up and did a man hug with Andrius. “You doing okay?”

Sa halip na sumagot, mahinang tumawa si Andrius. “You are the sixth person to visit me today. First was Valerian, then Shun, and Tyron, then an hour later, Beckett showed up followed by Hunt. Then yesterday, Phoenix and Titus visited me. Not only that, I received a call from Velasquez.”

“We’re just worried.” Ani Khairro ng makaupo sila pareho ni Andrius.

“I’m fine.” Andrius said with a smile.

Pinakatitigan niya ang kaibigan. “Don’t pretend.”

Slowly, Andrius’ smile fade. “I want to be fine. I’m trying, Khairro, but it’s so hard.”

Khairro sighed. “I’m sorry. It’s my fault—”

“Stop right there.” Pigil sa kaniya ni Andrius. “Stop blaming yourself. It’s fine. I’m just glad that you didn’t cut ties with me after I sinked so low.”

Khairro didn’t know what to say to make Andrius feel better so he kept his mouth shut. Good thing Andrius started a topic.

“So … how’s Velasquez’s wedding?” Andrius asked.

Khairro shrugged. “Full of lunatics of course. Though Knight said he’ll get wed again, here in the Philippines. Siguraduhin mo lang raw na a-attend ka.”

Andrius chuckled. “Siguro naman maayos na ako no’n.”

“Of course.” Khairro smiled at Andrius. “You can get through this, bud. We’re all here for you.”

“I know.” Nangingiting napailing si Andrius. “Walang araw na walang bumibisita saking mga baliw.”

Khairro chuckled. “We don’t want you bored here and we have a calendar for this.”

Andrius just laughed.

“Magtatagal ka pa ba rito?” Tanong niya sa kaibigan.

Andrius shrugged. “Kapapasok ko lang dito. I’m still struggling and I’m still craving for it, but, I need to be clean. I can’t stay like this forever. Ivy will be very sad if she sees me right now.”

Khairro felt a pang of guilt again. “I’m sorry, Andrius. I’m really sorry.”

Umiling ang kaibigan. “It’s not your fault.”

“I feel like it is.”

Umiling ulit si Andrius. “It’s not and I don’t blame you for what happened.” Then Andrius changed the topic. “You keep asking how I am, how about you? Anything new?”

Kaagad na pumasok sa isip niya si Eliza na ikinangiti niya. “I met a very savage woman. Pilosopo rin siya. Palagi siyang may sagot sa lahat. Though she’s like that, she’s really cute. She’s like a child, my alone and boring days are over because of her.”

Andrius was looking at him with amusement. “You falling?”

“I don’t know.” He answered honestly. “I think she’s adorable though.”

Andrius chuckled. “Isa ka sa mga sinumpa ni Valerian. Naaalala mo?”

Napangiwi si Khairro. “Yeah.”

“Be careful.”

Mahinang natawa si Khairro. “I don’t think it’s going to work on me.”

Andrius just chuckled and continued conversing with him, catching up and just hanging out ’til the visiting hours ends.

“I’ll be back next week.” Ani Khairro pagkatapos magpaalam kay Andrius.

Andrius just nod and smiled after he bid goodbye.

Nang makalabas si Khairro ng rehabilitation center, bumagal ang paglalakad niya patungo sa sasakyan niyang nakaparada. He was worried of Andrius. Yes, Andrius smiled and laughed but Khairro could tell that it was forced. A show Andrius puts on to not make them worry.

Pero sa ginagawa nito, mas nag-aalala silang lahat dito.

Khairro entered his car and sent a chat on their group chat.

Khairro Sanford : Just visited Salazar. He’s pretending to be okay again. I’m worried.

Phoenix Martinez : We’re worried too but we can’t do anything but be there for him.

Titus Morgan : We don’t know what kind of pain he’s feeling so let’s just leave him be and be there when he needs us.

Tyron Zapanta : What @

TitusMorgan

said is true. Let’s just support him in our own way.

Khairro Sanford:

It’s my fault.

Tyron Zapanta : It’s not.

Beckett Furrer : Man, you’re still blaming yourself for what happened?

Pierce Muller : Tsk.

Titus Morgan : How many times do we have to tell you that it’s not your fault?

Instead of answering, Khairro closed his phone and drove to his condo. He’s seeking someone’s presence and that presence was in his house.

Kaagad siyang pumasok sa condo niya ng makarating at hinanap ng mga mata si Eliza. He didn’t have to look hard though because he immediately saw her on the living room dancing while facing her phone that was placed on top of the long sofa.

She had an airpods on while dancing and singing to Katy Perry’s ‘TGIF’.

Khairro leaned on the wall and just watched Eliza danced her heart out. Napapangiti siya sa tuwing nagkakamali ito at hindi nito nasusunod ang choreography na sinusunod at pinapanood nito sa cellphone nito.

He didn’t know why just by watching Eliza dance — she wasn’t even a good dancer — but he felt light hearted, like all his worries and troubles disappeared.

After a couple of minutes of watching Eliza, she finally noticed him.

“What?” Anito na nakapameywang pa at nakaharap sa kaniya habang tumutulo ang pawis nito.

Umalis siya sa pagkakahilig sa semento saka naglakad palapit sa dalaga habang nakapamulsa. “What are you doing?”

“Zumba.” Sagot nito na bumalik ulit sa paggaya ng dancer sa cellphone nito. “Ilang araw na akong walang exercise dahil hindi naman ako puwedeng lumabas kaya zumba nalang.”

Same with him. Ilang araw na rin siyang hindi nakakabisita sa gym na katabi lang ng condominium building na ’to. “Can I dance with you?”

“Bahala ka basta huwag mo akong isturbuhin.” Anito habang nakatutok sa pinapanood nito at ginagaya.

Khairro, then, took of his shirt and started mimicking the dancer on Eliza’s phone. “Bakit may giling-giling, pambabae ba ’to?”

“Gago. Lalaki ang sumasayaw, oh.” Mataray na sagot ni Eliza saka tinawanan siya ng makitang gumigiling siya habang nakataas ang dalawang kamay. “Ang sagwa mo tingnan.”

Khairro stopped dancing and looked at Eliza flatly. “Hindi ka rin naman marunong sumayaw —”

Malakas na hampas ng throw pillow ang tumama sa braso niya.

“Gusto mo ng away, ha?” Naghahamon na tanong ni Eliza habang naka-fighting stance ito at kuyom ang kamao. “Suntukan, gusto mo?”

Khairro couldn’t help but laughed out loud seeing Eliza’s manly gestures while pouting and forehead furrowed.

Eliza glared at him. “Lumayas ka nga sa harapan ko! Doon ka sa kuwarto mo. Huwag mong isturbuhin ang exercise ko.”

Khairro was still laughing so hard annoying Eliza so Eliza kicked Khairro, but Khairro was quick to dodge it while still laughing.

“You’re so cute.” Natatawang sabi ni Khairro habang panay ang ilag sa mga suntok at sipa niya.

Then her kick turned wrong and she hit the centerpiece and it broke.

“Ay, putang’ina!” Biglang mura ni Eliza saka kaagad na nilapitan ang nabasag saka nag-angat ng tingin kay Khairro na tumatawa pa rin. “Pangit, kasalanan mo ’to. Gago ka kasi! Pinagtatawanan mo ang pagsasayaw ko, hindi mo ba alam na full effort ko ’yon?”

Finally, Khairro sobered up, “sorry, sorry, it’s just … you were so cute and funny.”

Inirapan ni Eliza si Khairro. “Pangit, ayusin mo ’yan.”

Khairro frowned at Eliza. “Why? Ikaw naman ang nakabasag, ah.”

“You made me kick it.”

“No I didn’t.”

Eliza pouted at Khairro. “Fine! How much is it anyway?”

“350, I think.”

Kaagad na tumayo si Eliza saka ngumisi sa kaniya. “350 peso lang naman pala—”

“It’s 350 thousand.”

Nang marinig ’yon ni Eliza, kaagad itong tumakbo patungo sa kuwarto at hindi na lumabas kaya naman sinundan niya ito pagkatapos niyang iligpit ang nabasag.

When he entered his room, Eliza was wrapped in comforter again and only the head was in show.

“Kapag siningil mo ako, mas magiging pangit ka pa lalo, sige ka.” Anito na parang bata ang tinatakot. “Hindi lang ’yon, magiging baog ka rin. Gusto mo ’yon?”

Pigil ni Khairro ang matawa at napagdesisyunan niyang takutin ang dalaga. “Mom bought it and it’s her favorite.”

Parang pagong na nagtago si Eliza sa loob ng comforter. Ni ulo hindi na makita.

“E sa wala akong pambayad!” Sigaw nito mula sa loob ng comforter. “Saka aksidente lang naman ’yon. Gago ka kasi. Pangit ka! Sobrang pangit mo!”

Umupo si Khairro sa gilid ng kama habang nakaharap kay Eliza. “May isa akong kondisyon kung gusto mong ako ang magbayad sa center piece na ’yon.”

Sumilip ang mga mata ni Eliza sa labas ng comforter. “Ano?”

Khairro smirked. “Sabihin mong guwapo ako.”

Eliza immediately left the comforter to glared at him. “Gago! Ayoko nga! Ako nalang ang magbabayad. Ten gives.”

Pigil ni Khairro ang matawa. “Mom would never accept it.”

Humaba ang nguso ni Eliza. “Bakit naman kasi ang mahal no’n? Bakit ’yong centrepiece ko sa condo ko 145 peso lang ang bili ko sa Divisoria?”

Khairro shrugged. “Mom bought it in San Francisco.”

“Pampanga?”

“California.”

Parang nanghihinang bumagsak ang patagilid ang katawan ni Eliza sa kama habang naka-fetus position ito. “I’m doomed.”

Khairro felt guilty when he saw Eliza lost in thought.

He cleared his throat. “Eliza.”

“What?” Walang buhay nitong sagot sa kaniya.

“I was just kidding.”

“About?”

“About the centerpiece. Mom didn’t bought it, I did—”

Biglang bumangon si Eliza saka pinaghahampas siya ng unan. “Gago! Pangit! Wala kang abs! Mabaog ka sana! I hate you!”

Tumatawa lang si Khairro pero hindi niya sinasalag ang bawat hampas ng unan na tumatama sa braso niya. He deserved it for teasing her too much.

“Pero sa California ko talaga ’yon binili.” Ani Khairro.

Doon napatigil si Eliza saka napatitig kay Khairro. “Talaga?”

Khairro nodded.

Paluhod na naupo si Eliza sa kama habang nakaharap kay Khairro at mahigpit pa ring hawak ang unan. “Sobrang yaman mo ba?”

Khairro chuckled. “It’s my Mom, not me.”

Umingos si Eliza. “Sayo rin naman ang bagsak no’n.”

“I guess.” Khairro said with a shrugged.

“If you’re rich, why did you became a Police Officer?”

Khairro smiled before answering, “I was inspired by my father to follow his footsteps.”

“Oh.” Eliza was silent for a few seconds then she started striking him with pillow again. “At bakit ka na naman nakahubad? Pinangangalandakan mo na naman yang abs mo na wala naman?” Ngayon ay sa abs na ni Khairro tumatama ang unan. “Ano ka excibistionist? Pangit ka talaga. Pangit na gago. Pago in short.”

Khairro was just chuckling because he finds Eliza adorable and hilarious.

“Stop laughing, Pago!” Eliza tsked. “Put your shirt on and get out of your room—” natigilan sa paghampas sa kaniya si Eliza, “wait, that came out wrong.” Then she looked at him. “It’s okay if I kick you out of your own room, right?”

Umiling si Khairro. “That’s rude.”

Eliza sighed and laid on the bed again in fetus position. “Kainis naman. Nakikitira lang ako kaya wala akong kapangyarihang paalisin ka.” Eliza pouted. “You’re so mean, Pangit?”

“At sino ang pinaghahampas ako ng unan?”

Eliza covered herself with the comforter like it could protect her. “Ako.”

“And you called me mean?”

Eliza sighed. “Fine. You’re not mean, just annoying.”

Napailing nalang si Khairro kapagkuwan ar seryosong nagtanong kay Eliza. “Can I ask you something?”

“You’re already asking, Pangit.” Sarkastikong sabi ni Eliza.

Pero hindi iyon pinansin ni Khairro at nagtanong sa dalaga. “When did I broke your heart?”

Eliza immediately cocooned herself inside the comforter and remained silent.

Khairro sighed. “Eliza … tell me.”

Iritadong napa-tsk si Eliza. “Kahit gaano pa kalambing ang boses mo, hinding-hindi ko sasabihin ’yon sayo, gago.”

Khairro sighed. “You really hate me that much?”

“Yeah.”

“I can’t remember, but I’m sorry.”

“What the point of saying sorry if you can’t remember it?” Eliza sighed. “And I’m not asking for your sorry. I’ve moved on.”

“That’s too bad since I like you,” Khairro looked at Eliza who’s still inside the cocooned comforter, “not in a friendly way, just so you know.”

“I don’t like you.” Kaagad na sagot ni Eliza. “I’m rejecting you.”

Khairro smiled. “That’s okay. I’ll just have to tell you I like you again and again ’til you change your mind.”

Umingos is Eliza na nasa loob ng comforter. “I hate you.”

“I know. I like you though.”

“Hindi kita gusto at hindi ako marupok kaya huwag mong palambingin ang boses mo. Hindi yan gagana sakin dahil may tamang lugar ang karupukan ko.” Buwelta ni Eliza saka bumulong, “thanks Matamis na Lunes.”

Umangat ang kamay ni Khairro para sana haplusin ang ulo ni Eliza mula sa labas ng comforter ng tumunog ang cellphone niya na nasa bulsa ng pantalon.

Kaagad niya iyon sinagot. Ang sekretarya niya iyon.

“Yes?”

“Sir, may homicide tayo.”

Kaagad siyang tumayo. “I’ll be there in ten.” Pinatay niya ang tawag saka bumaling kay Eliza na nasa loob pa rin ng comforter. “I have to go to the precinct, Eliza. It’s an emergency. Mauna ka nang kunain. Don’t wait up. I’ll be home late.”

Hindi na niya hinintay ang sagot nito at kaagad na lumabas ng kuwarto, pinulot ang t-shirt na hinubad niya sa salas saka lumabas ng condo niya at tinungo ang rooftop.

Si Eliza naman ay dahan-dahang lumabas sa comforter na nakapulupot sa kaniya saka napatingin sa kinauupuan kanina ni Khairro.

Good thing Police men are really busy. She doesn’t want to talk to Khairro about her heart break. Gago rin ang pangit na ’yon, binasted na nga niya ako, ikukuwento ko pa?

Ano ’yon, sampal sa sarili ko?

Umalis siya sa kama saka lumabas ng kuwarto para magluto ng hapunan. At dahil sabi ni Khairro late itong uuwi, para lang sa kaniya ang niluto niya at mag-isa siyang kumain.

After dinner, she looked for something to drink to pass the time since she’s alone. Tinungo niya ang mini-bar para maghanap doon ng maiinom. Khairro told her the other day that it’s okay to drink any liquor I want as long she wouldn’t get drunk.

She looked at Khairro’s mini bar. “Gin, Tequila, Rum, Cognac, Bourbon, Scotch, Wines and Vodka. “Hmm … wala ba siyang kakaibang alak dito? ’Yong hindi ko kilala tutal mayaman naman siya.”

Pumasok si Eliza sa mini-bar saka binuksan ang mga cabinet niyon para maghanap ng kakaibang alak at malapad siyang napangiti ng makakita siya ng isa.

It’s in a black bottle with cork stopper and the name of the liquor was engrave on the bottle with silver littering. Sa tanang buhay niya, ngayon palang siya nakakita ng ganung klaseng alak.

Of course, Eliza texted Khairro to informed him.

To: Pangit

’ Hey, Pangit. Gusto kong uminom at may nahanap akong alak sa may ibabang cabinet ng mini-bar. Inumin ko, ha?’

Hindi na hinintay ni Eliza ang sagot ni Khairro. Eliza licked her lips while looking at the liquor on ber hand. “Just a small sip.”

Excited, Eliza grabbed a glass and went to sit on the sofa in the living room. Bago niya binuksan ang alak, binasa muna niya ang pangalan niyon.

“High Fantasy.” Hmm … haven’t heard this one before. “Oh, well.”

Nagsalin siya ng alak sa baso niya saka excited na sumimsim.

When the bitter taste exploded in her mouth, she moaned. “So bitter, but so good.”

Tumayo si Eliza saka kumuha ng chips. Pinabili niya iyon kay Pangit nuong isang araw.

Kaagad siyang bumalik sa salas at nanood ng TV habang sumisimsim ng alak at kumakain ng chips.

She was supposed to watch a movie and chill, that was her plan after dinner, but her body had a different plan.

KHAIRRO WAS BUSY with the homicide case. He’s not personally handling it but he had to be there and show himself to support his men and also to talk to the media about the case. He doesn’t like second hand information that’s why he liked to be in the scene to better understand what his precinct was dealing with.

“Sir, hindi namin mabilang pero marami ang saksak ng biktima.” Imporma sa kaniya ni PO1 Hernandez. “Malalaman natin ang eksaktong bilang pagbalik ng Autopsy report.”

Tumango siya. “Ayusin niyo ang pagtatanong at pag-iimbestiga para maisarado kaagad natin itong kaso na ’to.”

Sumaludo sa kaniya si PO1 Hernandez. “Yes, Sir.”

Khairro nodded and excused himself when his phone rang.

It was Beckett.

“Hey, motherfucker!” Bati nito sa kaniya ng sagutin niya ang tawag. “Where are you? Nagpapa-BBQ si Attorney.”

“I have to pass.”

“Huh?” Halata ang gulat sa boses ni Beckett. “Why?”

“Police work.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah. Bye. I’m kinda busy.”

“So cold.” Beckett said dramatically before ending the call.

Akmang ibabalik niya ang cellphone sa bulsa ng makita niyang may text sa kaniya si Eliza.

From: Eliza

’‘Hey, Pangit. Gusto kong uminom at may nahanap akong alak sa may ibabang cabinet ng mini-bar. Inumin ko, ha?’

Natigilan siya sa nabasa. Ibabang cabinet? But there are no liquor there except for the — Khairro’s eyes widened. “Fuck!” He hissed when he realized what kind of drink Eliza was referring to.

Fuck! Fuck!

Kaagad niyang hinanap si SPO II De Guia. Nang mahanap niya ito, kaagad niyang kinuha ang atensiyon nito. “De Guia.”

Kaagad itong sumaludo sa kanya. “Sir.”

He salute back before talking. “Can you wrap it up here? Mag emergency ako sa bahay. I have to be there.” He had to be here as well, but Eliza was his first priority.

“Sige ho, Sir. Ako na ang bahala rito.”

“Salamat.” Tinapik niya ang balikat ni De Guia saka halos takbuhin niya ang sasakyan na nakaparada hindi kalayuan sa crime scene.

Panay ang mura ni Khairro habang papunta siya sa pag-aaring gusali n gina kung nasaan ang Helicopter niya. Kakainin siya ng traffic kung magmamaneho siya pauwi.

He felt relieved when he arrived at his mother’s building and immediately went to the rooftop. While manoeuvring the Helicopter mid-air, he couldn’t stop thinking about Eliza and that drink.

That black bottle of liquor was none other than High Fantasy. Luther, also known as X in the underground gave it to him when Luther became his informant back in the days when he was just starting.

That liquor was not normal. It had drugs in there and some stuff he doesn’t know about. Balak niya iyong itapon pero nawala sa isip niya at ngayon lang niya naalala na nakatago pala iyon sa cabinet.

“Fuck!” He hissed. Eliza …

Halos tumakbo si Khairro patungo sa condo niya ng mailapag niya ang Helicopter at nakalabas siya.

Tanging ang kalagayan lang ni Eliza ang nasa isip niya.

Hinihingal si Khairro ng makarating sa unit niya. H hurried went inside and immediately look for Eliza.

Kaagad niyang nakita ang bote ng High Fantasy na nangangalahati na ang laman at ang wine glass na ginamit nito pero wala si Eliza sa salas.

My room!

Malalaki ang hakbang na pumasok siya sa kuwarto pero hindi niya nakita ang dalaga, sa halip ay nakarinig siya ng mahinang daing galing banyo.

Khairro knocked on the bathroom’s door. “Eliza, you in there?”

Mahinang daing lang ang narinig niya. Daing na para bang nasasaktan ito. Fuck !

“Eliza!” Nilakasan niya ang pagtawag sa pangalan nito. “Are you okay?”

Nothing.

Khairro blows a loud breath of frustration. “Sagutin mo ako kung hindi papasok ako.” Pananakot niya sa dalaga pero mga daing lang ang naririnig niya.

Worried of Eliza, he kicked the locked door open and stilled when he saw Eliza soaking on the bathtub, she was naked, huffing and she looked flushed. Her eyes were dropping seductively and she kept licking her lips.

And when she saw him, a spark of emotions Khairro knew all too well filled Eliza’s eyes.

Desire and lust.

Khairro stilled. “Holy … Fuck.”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 6

MABILIS ANG NAGING kilos ni Khairro ng makitang tumayo si Eliza mula sa pagkakaupo sa bathtub. Kinuha niya ang tuwalya saka mabilis na pinalibot iyon sa hubad na katawan ng dalaga ng tuluyan itong makatayo.

He didn’t have the time to wrapped the towel around her so he just hugged her with the towel.

“How are you feeling?” Khairro asked while balancing Eliza’s body.

“H-hurts…” Eliza groaned like she was suffering. “I-it h-hurts, P-pangit.”

Of course it does. Wh

y

did I even ask? High Fantasy had a drug to boost anyone’s libido to it’s peak and if not taken care of — meaning, if the person didn’t cum or had sexual intercourse — it’s going to hurt like hell.

“Fuck!” Khairro tightened his hold on Eliza. “I’m going to carry you to the bed. Is that okay?”

Eliza groaned again. “H-hurts…”

“I know, Eli. I know.” Maingat niyang binuhat ang dalaga saka malalaki ang hakbang na dinala niya ito sa kama.

Eliza was drenched and naked all over so he used the comforter to wrapped her body after settling her on the bed and then dried her hair.

Khairro stilled when he saw Eliza bit her lower lip while looking at him lustfully.

He cleared his throat and continued drying Eliza’s hair while his other hand was busy with his phone, dialling Luther’s number.

“Hello, motherfucker.” Wika ni Luther ng sagutin ang tawag niya. “What do you want—”

“High Fantasy.” He cut Luther off, “how do you get rid of the sexual urges? Someone accidentally drink it.”

“Oh.” Then the devil chuckled. “Hmm … there’s only thing.”

“What?” Khairro was in a hurry especially now that Eliza got his hand and licking and kissing his fingertips and wrist. “Fuck it! Tell me already!”

“Sex.”

Khairro froze. “No. Other option.”

“Nothing.”

“No! There has to be other option!” Khairro hissed. “I am not going to have sex to a woman who’s not in her right mind, damn it! Without her consent, I won’t do it.”

Luther sighed. “Make her cum then—”

“I said no sex!”

“Well, hindi ka lang naman sa sex puwedeng labasan. That’ll last for six hours by the way. The longer the person stops his/her sexual urges, the more painful it would be.”

That made Khairro stilled. “Okay. Got it.” Pinatay niya ang tawag saka inagawa ang kamay niya na hawak ni Eliza. “Eli, listen to me.”

Eli was now trying to get up so he pinned her down on the bed. “Eli, listen to me.” He was almost begging. “There’s only one way to make the pain stop. You have to cum.”

Everything was hazy to Eliza. She could see Khairro talking to her in frustration, but she couldn’t understand him clearly. Her mind was so focused on her body feeling hot and wanting herself or someone to touch her all over, especially in between her thighs.

Her body was in pain, but the urged to touch herself was more powerful than the pain.

She was trying her hardest to fight the lust consuming her but to no avail. Her body was screaming for her to gave in, to touch herself.

And she could no longer control herself. She could no longer stop and fight it especially now that she could see Khairro looking at her with worry. Seeing him adds excitement to her desire.

Mahinang napahalinghing si Eliza ng maramdaman ang hindi maipaliwanag na sakit sa puson niya. She pulled herself into a fetus position while staring at Khairro who still looked so worried.

“K-Khairro… i-it h-hurts…”

Khairro was answering her but she couldn’t make out the words. She couldn’t understand him.

“Kh-Khai… t-touch me … it h-hurts…” she was begging him, she doesn’t want this pain anymore. It’s consuming her whole body and she was close to sobbing in pain.

Khairro didn’t know what to do seeing Eliza in pain. He was in between doing what’s right and that’s to not to touch Eliza because she’s not in her right mind at the moment or make her cum to ease her pain. He was so conflicted, he didn’t know what to do ’til Eliza gripped his hand and brought his hand to her belly.

“Eli—”

“T-touch…” Eliza whispered and bit her lip then pushed his hand to her womanhood. “…me.”

Huminga ng malalim si Khairro saka inilagay niya sa bedside table ang cellphone saka pinakatitigan ang dalaga. “I can’t do that to you — even if it’s not sex. You’ll hate me tomorrow, Eli. I don’t want that.”

A tear fell from Eliza’s eyes. “It h-hurts… p-please … i-it h-hurts. M-make it go away.”

Mariing ipinikit ni Khairro ang mga mata saka isinubsob niya ang mukha sa balikat ni Eliza. It was suffocating to see her in pain, but if he did this, she’ll hate him tomorrow, but if he doesn’t, then this pain will double and tripled and she won’t even passed out because of the drugs.

“Fuck…”

“P-pangit…”

“I’m here.” Umayos siya ng upo saka pinakatitigan ang dalaga. “I’m sorry … I can’t do it because I know, if you’re in your right mind, you’ll chose pain over me. All I can do now is to stay by your side as you get through this.”

Eliza groaned while her body was squirming. Khairro tightened the comforter wrapping around her body before he laid himself on the bed, beside her.

Maingat at masuyong niyakap ni Khairro ang dalaga habang gumagalaw pa rin ang katawan nito na parang hindi mapakali.

She’s not even touching herself to relieve the pain. Khairro thought. That means Eliza was still fighting her sexual urges. Though she wanted him to touched her earlier, his presence might have triggered something in Eliza for her body to react that way.

Hinaplos niya ang nuo ni Eliza na nababalot ng pawis. “You can do it. Hindi ka marupok, di’ba? Kaya mo ’to.”

Eliza groaned in pain, this time, it was louder than the last and her legs were now squirming. Khairro had to embraced her tightly to secure her body inside the comforter.

It went on like that for hours. Eliza groaning in pain, her body squirming while tears were falling from her eyes and Khairro couldn’t do anything but hugged her and whispered encouraging words.

Khairro didn’t know how many hours had passed since he laid on the bed beside Eliza, but Eliza was now screaming in pain while crying and sobbing.

It was a torture for him to see her like this, but his decision not to touch her still stands solid. Because he knew the Eli who’s not sex crazed would never want that.

As time goes, the pain Eliza was feeling intensified. It had become so intense that she lost the battle and her hands and fingers found her wetness and she started touching herself

Khairro stilled when Eliza stopped groaning in pain after a couple of hours. He thought the effect of High Fantasy finally wore off ’til he heard Eliza moaning and saw her lips parted open, her eyes closed in bliss and her moans became more lustful.

Frozen in place, Khairro’s stares moved to Eliza’s lower body.

Is she … touching herself?

“Ahh… Ah, Oh… ah…”

Khairro gulped. He’s thankful that he wrapped the comforter on Eliza and he couldn’t see her touched herself. That would send him over the edge. Even just her moans were turning him on and making him hard as rock!

Fuck!

“Ahh … Uhmm .. Ahh.” Eliza continued moaning while pleasuring herself and Khairro wanted to cover his ears to stop being hard.

But before he could even move, Eliza turned to face him and pressed her lips on his and kissed him hungrily. Nibbling her lips, sucking his tongue and french kissing him while moaning inside his mouth.

“Ahh… Uhm…” Eliza moaned inside his mouth again while she was kissing him and Khairro snapped.

He cupped Eliza’s face and returned the kiss with tenfold ferocity.

Lip locked, tongue sicking and lip licking, Khairro and Eliza continued french kissing while Eliza was moving her body to top Khairro.

Khairro groaned when Eliza broke the kiss to sit on top of him, while her body was still covered with comforter that was already falling from its tight wrap, she, then, started moving her hips, rubbing his groin while she was touching herself and moaning. Arching her back with her lips parted open, she moaned in pleasure.

And Khairro was just staring at Eliza in awe. She was beautiful with her flushed cheeks and face painted with lust and desire.

Khairro was enthralled by Eliza while watching her pleasure herself ’til she arched her body and came.

Then her body suddenly dropped on his chest, her face buried on his neck.

Worry consumed him. “Eli? You okay?”

Eliza who’s mind was now starting to clear up, spoke. “T-thank you.” Anito sa namamaos na boses.

Khairro frowned. “For what?”

Sumagot ito sa nanghihinang boses. “For not taking advantage of me.”

Hinaplos niya ang buhok nito. “Of course.”

Khairro felt relieved when he felt Eliza’s body relaxed and she started breathing evenly.

She’s finally asleep.

Slowly and carefully, he moved Eliza’s body to the bed, then he stood up to get her clothes from the eco bad he brought for her from her condo. Pagkatapos ay maingat niyang dinamitan ang dalaga saka inalis ang comforter sa pagkakabalot dito. Nang makitang maayos na ang dalaga, saka siya kumuha ng bagong comporter para ikumot rito.

After making sure that everything’s okay, he looked at the time on his phone.

2:53 AM. That was more than six hours.

Khairro went to the bathroom and while facing the mirror, he looked down on her crotch.

He’s still hard.

Kharro sighed and drained the water on the tub and replaced it with cold water — cold enough to softened his hard friend down there. Hopefully.

After the cold water filled the bathtub, Khairro took off all his clothes and soaked himself on the tub.

He thought the cold water would help him calm down, but he found his hand wrapping around his hard shaft.

Great. Just fucking great.

ELIZA WOKE UP feeling exhausted. Parang ayaw niyang igalaw ang katawan niya at gusto lang niyang manatili sa higaan pero nanglalagkit ang katawan niya at amoy pawis siya.

What happened to me ? Wala siyang maalala sa nangyari. Was I too drunk last night?

Kahit mabigat ang pakiramdam, bumangon si Eliza saka tinungo ang banyo pero natigilan siya sa pagpasok ng makitang sira ang pintuan niyon.

Huh? What the hell happened to this door?

Frowning and confused, Eliza entered the bathroom. Ihinarang lang niya ang basurahan sa pintuan para hindi kaagad bumukas iyon saka siya naghubad at naligo.

Habang nasa ilalim ng shower, natigilan si Eliza sa pagsa-shampoo ng parang biglang may pumasok na memorya sa isip niya.

What was that? She was in bed with Khairro and he was gently wrapping the comforter around her body.

Hindi pa niya maintindihan kung ano ’yon ng may pumasok na namang memorya sa isip niya. Kapagkuwan ay sunod-sunod na niyang naalala ang nangyari kagabi. Mula ng mahanap niya ang High Fantasy na alak hanggang sa makatulog siya sa dibdib ni Khairro pagkatapos niyang magsarili.

Nanghihinang napasandal si Eliza sa semento ng banyo saka dahan-dahanag napaupo sa sahid at niyakap ang mga binti habang bumabagsak pa rin ang tubig galing sa rain shower.

The word embarrassed was not even enough to describe what she was feeling right now. Gusto niyang bumukas ang lupa at lamunin siya dahil wala siyang mukhang maihaharap kay Pangit.

Diyos ko! Hindi ako makapaniwalang nagsarili ako sa harapan ng gago na ’yon!

Gusto niyang bugbugin ang sarili pero dahil mahal niya ang sarili niya, pinagkasiya nalang niya ang sarili sa pagsisisi dahil sa katangahan niya at dahil uminom siya ng alak na hindi niya alam ang laman.

Gusto ko nalang maging kaluluwa para hindi ako makita ng pangit na ’yon. Nagsarili ako! Putang’ina naman! Bakit ako nagsarili?!

Ano ba ang mayroon sa alak na ’yon na nangyari sakin ’yon. Does Pangit know? Nasisiguro niyang hindi normal ang alak na ininom niya.

And Pangit didn’t touch me nor take advantage of me. Well, he did kissed her, but she was the one who initiated the kiss. Pangit actually took care of her — wrapping her naked body with comforter so he wouldn’t see her nakedness, not caving in when she asked him to touch her and he took care of her ’til she fell asleep. He even put clothes on her afterwards.

You’re really not so bad, Captain. Pero tinigasan kaya siya sa pinaggagagawa ko?

“Mahabaging diyos, salamat dahil buo pa ang puri ko.” Aniya saka pilit na tumayo at tinapos ang pagligo.

Eliza was embarrassed beyond belief, but she had to face Khairro one way or another. Kaya naman lakas-loob siyang lumabas ng kuwarto at hinanap ang binata habang may nakapulupot na comforter sa katawan niya. Dinala niya iyon para may mapagtataguan siya dahil sa kahihiyang pinaggagagawa niya.

Natagpuan niya si Pangit sa kusina. Nagkakape ito habang may binabasa na kung ano sa cellphone nito.

Walang imik na lumapit siya saka umupo sa hapag-kainan. Makapal ang mukha niya pero hindi pa niya kayang makipagtitigan kay Pangit. Fresh na fresh pa sa utak niya ang pagsasarili niya.

Tang’na talaga! Gaga ka self, gaga!

Kaagad na ibinaba ni Khairro ang hawak na cellphone saka tumingin kay Eliza. “How are you feeling?”

Dahan-dahang isinama ni Eliza ang ulo niya sa pagtatago sa loob ng comforter. “Gusto kong bumukas ang lupa at lamunin nalang ako. Gusto ko ring maging multo para hindi mo ako makita. Gusto ko ring bugbugin ang sarili ko dahil sa katangahang pinaggagagawa ko.” Humikbi siya. “At okay lang naman ako. Wala namang masakit sakin. Kalmado na rin ang puri ko.”

Pigil ni Khairro ang matawa. He had a feeling that if he laughed, Eliza will definitely throw a fit.

“Buti naman.”

Humikbi ulit si Eliza. “Walang mabuti sa nangyari no!”

“Then, how about we forget about it and we don’t mention it again.” Khairro suggested.

Sa wakas, tumingin din si Eliza kay Khairro. “Totoo? Gagawin mo ’yon?”

“Yeah, sure.” Kaagad na sagot ni Khairro, “it’s partly my fault because I didn’t trash that bottle when I had the chance and forgot about it.”

“Oh. Okay.” Kahit papaano ay medyo nabawasan ang hiya ni Eliza. “Bakit may ganung alak ka pala? Yan ang dahilan kung bakit ako nagsarili, no?”

“Y-yeah.” Khairro stuttered so he cleared his throat. “An Underground informant of mine gave it to me and I forgot to dispose of it.”

Eliza glanced at Khairro. “Thanks, by the way.”

“For?”

“For taking care of me and for not taking advantage of me.”

Khairro smiled at her. “I’m maybe an asshole and broke your heart, but i’m not that kind of a person. And i’m a Police Office, so … it’s my job to protect you.”

That actually made Eliza smiled. “No wonder Kuya Knight picked you to look after me.” Then she lost her smile. “Pero Pago ka pa rin. Pangit na gago.”

Khairro chuckled. “Yeah, yeah. I’m glad you’re okay though.”

Slowly, Eliza rested the side of her cheek on the table, her face facing Khairro. “Ang bigat ng katawan ko. Nakakagago lang.”

Khairro face softened seeing Eliza pouting. “Gusto mong mag-agahan? I cooked you macaroni soup.”

Kaagad na nabuhayan ang katawan ni Eliza. “Macaroni souuuup!” She licked her own lips. “It’s my favorite!”

“I know. I called Sweet Monday earlier and asked her your favorite breakfast.” Tumayo na si Khairro para ikuha si Eliza ng macaroni soup.

He called Matamis na Lunes just to ask that? For some reason, it made Eliza grinned. “Three bowls of Macaroni soup, please!”

Mahinang natawa si Khairro saka tatlong bowl ng macaroni soup nga ang inihanda para kay Eliza.

Eliza licked her lips excitedly. “Yey! I miss you, macaroni soup!” Kaagad na kumain si Eliza ng mailapag ni Khairro ang sopas sa mesa. “Salamat sa agahan!”

Khairro just smiled and made her coffee. “Here you go.” Anito saka inilagay sa harapan niya ang isang tasa ng kape. “Brewed coffee, no sugar.”

Eliza grinned at Khairro. “Thanks, Pangit!”

Khairro grinned back and he couldn’t stop staring at Eliza’s happy face. She’s 27, but she looked young for her age. Kung ibabase lang niya sa mukha, papasa si Eliza sa edad na 21 o kaya naman 22.

Khairro felt happy when Eliza finished the three bowls of Macaroni and she asked for another serving.

“Pangit, anong gusto mong hapunan?” Tanong ni Eliza kay Khairro ng maubos nito ang ikalang serving ng sopas. “I’m feeling happy today so I’m gonna cook you dinner.”

Khairro smiled. “Anything. I’m not picky.”

Tinaasan ni Eliza ng kilay ang binata. “Talaga ba? Totoo o nagpapa-pogi points ka lang?”

Mahinang natawa si Khairro. “It’s true. I’m not picky.”

“Okay.” Eliza went back to eating Macaroni Soup again. “This is really good.”

“Thanks.”

Eliza blows a loud breath after eating all the second serving of Macaroni soup. “That was so good!” She let out a contented sighed then she glanced at Khairro who was staring at her. “What?”

“I really like you.”

Eliza smiled unapologetically. “Sorry. I don’t feel the same way.”

Khairro just shrugged. Not minding her rejection.

“Anyway,” Eliza breathe in, “salamat talaga sa pag-aalaga sakin kagabi at salamat dahil hindi mo pinatulan ang panglalandi ko sayo kagabi.” Eliza shivered. “Mahabaging diyos, ang landi-landi ko talaga kagabi. Nagtataasan ang balahibo ko kapag naaalala ko ang kalandian ko. Buti nalang ikaw ang kasama ko, hindi iba. And, oh, Lord, I even touch myself. Nakakahiya ang pinaggagagawa ko.”

“It’s not you, it’s the liquor.” Ani Khairro saka sumimsim ng kape.

Tumango si Eliza. “That’s true. Makapal lang ang mukha ko at hindi ako shy-type pero hindi ako malandi. Sampo nga lang naging boyfriend ko e.”

Nasamid si Khairro ng iniinom na kape sa gulat sa narinig. “Sampo?”

Eliza nodded. “Yeah.” She pulled her knees up to hugged them and rested her chin on her folded knees. “Pero lahat sila manloloko. Bakit kaya wala akong matinong naging boyfriend? ’Yong una, fuck boy e hindi naman kaguwapuhan. Hindi ko nga alam ba’t pinatulan ko ’yon. Nuong hindi ko na siya boyfriend, biglang pumangit.”

Khairro couldn’t help but to laughed.

“Don’t laugh!” Eliza pouted at Khairro before continuing her ex-boyfriend’s story. “Yong pangalawa, fuck boy rin, pero guwapo siya, gago nga lang.”

“Mas guwapo pa sakin?”

“Nope.” Umiling si Eliza. “Ang pangit mo kaya.”

Tumawa lang si Khairro.

Tiningna ni Eliza ng masama si Khairro. “Huwag ka ngang isturbo sa kuwento ko, Pago.”

Nangingiting sumimsim ng kape si Khairro. “Hindi na, hindi na. Ituloy mo na ang kuwento mo.”

“Okay. ’Yong pangatlo naman, nakabuntis ng iba kasi ayokong isuko ang bandera ng bataan ko. Oh, di’ba ang gago? ’Yong pang-apat, kung hindi ba naman siya gago, ginamit lang pala ako para maka-porma kay Matamis na Lunes. Hayon, nasapak siya ni Matamis na Lunes. ’Yong pang-lima, six timer pala. Tang’ina, ika-anim pala ako.”

That’s when Khairro laughed. “Now that’s a jerk right there.”

“Sinabi mo pa. Hmp!” Umingos si Eliza, “sinipa ko lang naman ang mga itlog niya ng mag-break kami.”

“Wow. You are savage.”

“Bakit ba?” Nagtataray na naman si Eliza. “Kapag gago, dapat tinutuhod ng malakas para baog kaagad. Mga gago!”

“Okay, okay.” Khairro said trying to calm Eliza down. “Anong nangyari sa pang-anim?”

“Guwapo yong pang-anim ko, kaso bobo. Kaya umayaw ako.”

“That’s just mean.”

“Eh, ano naman? Real talk ang gusto ko, manahimik ka riyan, taga-pakinig ka lang.” Uminom ng tubig si Eliza bago nagpatuloy sa pagsasalita. “At yong pang-pito ko naman, may itsura tapos matalino. Sa sobrang talino, hindi ako makasakay dahil gusto niyang topic tungkol sa mga chemical equation at couple goals yata niya ang himay-himaying pagusap ang periodic table. Hindi ko kinaya. Na drain ang utak ko kaya nakipag-break ako.

“’Yong pang-walo ko naman ay mahilig mag english. Tawag, text or personal, englisero siya masyado e Filipino naman siya. Sumasakit utak ko minsan lalo na kapag bumabaliko ang english niya. Sinabihan ko siyang magtagalog nalang, hayon, nakipag-break sakin. Hindi yata kinaya ang sampal ng katotohanan.

“’Yong pang-siyam ko, architect siya. Hayon, nilandi ng ex niya, nagpalandi naman kaya nagkabalikan sila. Tapong ’yong pang-sampu ko naman…” biglang natigilan si Eliza at natahimik.

Khairro was curious because Eliza went silent. “What happen to the tenth ex-boyfriend?”

Nagbaba ng tingin si Eliza bago sumagot. “He died.”

“Is he worth being sad for?” Khairro knew he’s being insensitive, but the tenth ex-boyfriend got to him.

Umiling si Eliza.

“Kung ganun bakit malungkot ka?”

“It’s nothing.” Eliza pulled a wide smile and looked at him. “So … those are my dicks ex-boyfriends.”

“I’m not a dick though.” Kaagad na sabi ni Khairro.

“Says the guy who broke my heart.”

“And i’m telling you, I don’t remember.”

Umingos si Eliza. “That makes you the dick of all the dicks. Kaya hinding-hindi ako magkakagusto sayo. Itinataga ko ang puri ko.”

“Oh?” Khairro smirked. “Paano kung magkagusto ka sakin, anong mangyayari sa puri mo?”

“I’ll give it to you.”

Khairro’s smirked froze. “What?”

“I’ll give it to you.” Ulit ni Eliza, “pero kapag hindi ako nagkagusto sayo hanggang sa matapos itong pagbabantay mo sakin, hindi ka na magpapakita sakin at hindi mo ako papansinin kahit magkasalubong pa tayo sa daan.” Pagkasabi no’n ay dumukwang si Eliza para hinalikan si Khairro sa mga labi. “There … a kiss to seal the deal.”

Khairro blinked at Eliza. “You’re so unfair, do you know that? Basta-basta mo nalang akong hinahalikan, pero hindi kita puwedeng basta nalang halikan.”

Eliza grinned. “Perks of being me.”

Khairro sighed before getting up. “I have to go to work now.”

Eliza sipped her coffee. “Okay. Have fun.”

“Where’s my goodbye kiss?”

Muntik nang maibuga ni Eliza ang kape na iniinom. “What did you say?”

“My goodbye kiss.”

“No way!”

Khairro tsked. “You took advantage of me last night, you know.”

“Huh?”

“You kissed me last night, so now i’m asking you, give me back my kiss.”

Napatanga lang si Eliza kay Khairro. “Ginagago mo ba ako, Pangit?”

Sa halip na sagutin siya, bigla nalang inilapit nito ang mukha sa mukha niya saka mapusok siyang hinalikan sa mga labi. Hindi pa nakakabawi sa pagkabigla si Eliza ng putulin ni Khairro ang halik at kumaripas ito ng takbo paalis.

“Pangggiiiiiiit!” Galit na sigaw ni Eliza. “Bumalik ka rito. Papatayin kitang Pago ka!”

But Khairro was already out of the condo and running like hell to the elevator with a wide grin on his lips.

Goodbye kiss before going to work. Not bad if it’s from Eli. Khairro smiled. Yeah. Not bad at all.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 7

ELIZA was reading a book when she heard the door bell rang. It made her frown because if it was Pangit, he wouldn’t ring the bell. Must be a visitor. With that in mind, she stood up, went to the door and looked at the peephole.

Babae ang nasa labas. Hindi lang basta kung sinong babae. It’s Ruth Pascua, soon to be Mrs. Furrer and Khairro’s girl best friend if she’s not mistaken. I’m not a stalker. I just know things.

Binuksan ni Eliza ang pinto at halatang nagulat si Ruth ng makita siya.

“Oh, hi.” Kaagad itong ngumiti. “Is Khai home?”

Khai? Nickname? “Ah, nasa presinto pa siya. Siguradong mamaya pa ang uwi no’n.”

“Ah.” Ilang segundong parang nag-isip ang kaharap saka may inabot sa kaniyang paper bag, “puwede bang pakibigay nalang nito sa kaniya. I’m Ruth by the way. Its his shirt when we went to Baguio together and I burrowed it from him because I ran out of clothes to wear.”

“I’m Eliza.” Pagpapakilala niya kapagkuwan  ay tumaas ang dalawang kilay ni Eliza. “Bakit mo … pinapaliwanag sakin?”

Natigilan si Ruth saka napakurap sa kaniya. “I just don’t want you to fight because of this.”

“Fight?” Gagad ni Eliza. “Like … jealous fight?”

“Yeah.”

Natawa si Eliza na pinagtaka ni Ruth. “Don’t worry. We’re not … like that. Nandito lang ako sa condo niya kasi may gustong manakit sakin. Binabantayan niya ako kasi ni-request ng Kuya ko.”

“Ah.” Napatango-tango si Ruth. “Sorry. I assumed you two are an item since Khairro doesn’t like bringing women to his condo.”

Eliza just smiled.

“Anyway,” Ruth smiled at her, “I have to go. Nice meeting you, Eliza.”

“Same here.”

Ruth smiled at her again before leaving. Nang mawala si Ruth sa harapan, isinara niya ang pinto saka bumaba ang tingin sa paper bag na pinabibigay ni Ruth kay Khairro.

She wore Pangit’s shirt while they’re in Baguio together? Sa pagkakaalam niya, may fiancé na si Ruth at isa iyon sa kaibigan ng boss niya na kaibigan din ni Khairro.

Together, huh? Did they slept in the same bed as well?

Well, Khairro would never do anything to Ruth. Not because she’s his friend’s fiancée but because he respect women. After spending a few days with Khairro and after what happened to her, she could say without a doubt that Khairro was indeed a gentleman.

Well, because of the kiss he stole, he’s only 95% gentleman now.

Bumalik si Eliza sa kinauupuan at inabot ang cellphone na nasa center table saka tinawagan ang boss niya.

“What?!”

Napaigtad siya sa galit na boses ng boss niya. “ Bogo , sinong nagbigay sayo ng karapatan na sigawan ang pinakamaganda at pinakamagaling mong sekretarya?“

“Oh. It’s you.” Kumalma kaagad ang boses nito. “When are you coming back?” Kaagad nitong tanong. Hindi man lang siya kinumusta ng gago.

“Next week, maybe. I’m still in danger, so … Chief of Police, Khairro Sanford is hiding me. Sorry I didn’t tell you.”

“It’s okay. Stay where are you. As long as you’re safe. But why are you in danger anyway?” Nagtatakang tanong ni Calyx. “May binugbog ka na naman ba?”

Eliza pouted. “How dare you accused me, Bogo . Binugbog ko lang naman ang kliyente natin dahil hinipuan niya ako. And if I remembered it correctly, you even helped me punch the fuck out of him!”

“Nope. It’s all you.”

“Gago. I hate you, Bogo .”

Tumawa si Calyx kapagkuwan bumuga ng marahas na hangin. “I’d like to talk but I have to hang up. Unlike you, i’m busy with work.”

“Serves you right.” She said mockingly. “Karma is a bitch.”

“Yeah, yeah. Keep safe, Eli.”

“You too, Bogo — oh wait!” Pigil ni Eliza kay Calyx na mukhang papatayin na ang tawag, “may tanong pala ako, Bogo , kaya tumawag ako.”

“Sure. Fire way.”

“Kilala mo si Ruth Pascua?”

“Beckett Furrer’s fiancé?”

“Yeah.”

“What about her?”

“What’s her relationship with Khairro?”

“Best friend I think.” Calyx said with a shrugged voice. “Ayon sa tsismis, si Sanford ang nakasama at nag-alaga kay Ruth nuong wala pa sa tamang huwisyo si Furrer at iniwan si Ruth. Why are you asking?”

“Nothing.” She nibbled on her lower lip. “Gusto ko lang malaman kung anong klaseng tao ang nagpo-protekta sakin.” Pagdadahilan niya. Sorry for lying, Bogo.

“Oh. If it’s Khairro, you don’t have to worry about a thing.” Parang nagmamalaki ang boses ni Calyx. “Hindi lang halata pero ’yan ang pinakamabait saming magkakaibigan. You’re safe with him. Trust me.”

“Ganun ba…” Eliza felt so bad for lying, “Thanks, Bogo .”

“Don’t mention it.”

“Bye.”

“Bye.”

Nang patayin niya ang tawag, napatitig siya sa larawan ni Pangit na nasa tabi lang ng TV.

Alam niya, kahit hindi sabihin ng Boss niya, mabait si Khairro. Kaya nga niya ito nagustuhan noon dahil sa kabaitan ito. Hindi man siya nito naaalala, siya, malinaw pa sa isip niya ang rason kung bakit niya ito nagustuhan.

It was not just a crush for her. Hindi ako aso pero puppy love talaga ’yon. Sigurado ako.

Eliza sighed heavily and glared at Khairro’s picture. “Masakit nuong binasted mo ako, pero tang’na, mas masakit dahil hindi mo ako maalala.”

Samantalang siya, hindi niya ito nakalimutan kahit ilang taon na ang nakakaraan. Panay kumbinsi niya sa sarili na gago ito, pero pagkatapos nang nangyari kagabi, hindi na niya makumbinsi ang sarili na gago si Khairro Sanford.

Walang gago na iri-respeto at hindi pagsasamantalahan ang kalagayan niya kagabi.

After what happened, she was reminded why she liked Khairro before.

It was not his face nor his body, it was his personality — it was his kindness that made her like him.

Niyakap ni Eliza ang sarili. Nanganganib yata ang puri ko — “no. Kaya ko ’to.” She wrapped the comforter around her body and cocooned herself. “Kaya kitang burahin sa sistema ko, Pangit. Just you wait.” Yes! You can do it, self! Huwag maging marupok.

Dahil kung magiging marupok siya, mamamaalam siya sa puri niya ng maaga.

The horror!

Dapat talaga ’ huwag maging marupok ’ ang maging motto niya habang kasama niya si Khairro.

Tumingala siya sa kisame. “Lord, gusto niyo ho ba ng kadena para pang-triple bantay sa puri ko? Sabihin niyo lang, bibili ako ng kadena, Lord.”

Mahaba ang nguso na pinatay ni Eliza ang TV saka napatingin sa cellphone na hawak.

Sa hindi malamang kadahilanan, natagpuan nalang niya ang sarili na nagti-text kay Khairro.

To: Pangit

‘Anong oras ka uuwi?’

Mukhang hindi abala si Pangit dahil nag reply ito kaagad sa text niya.

From: Pangit

‘Miss me?’

Eliza snorted and replied. ’ Mag bagyo ba? 🙄 ’

From: Pangit

‘Low pressure lang.’

Napa-tsk nalang si Eliza sa nabasa. Napakagago talaga ng lalaking ’to.

To: Pangit

’Anong oras ka nga uuwi? Kapag hindi mo ako sinagot ng maayos, si-send-dan kita ng angry Eliza emoji with audio and video. Gusto mo ’yon? 🤨 ’

Reading Eliza’s text, Khairro chuckled. She’s being adorable again.

To: Eliza 🐢

‘Show me.’

Khairro chuckled to himself again seeing Eliza’s name on his contact. He put a turtle beside her name because she reminded him of turtle every time she’s wrapping the comforter around her body and slowly hiding her head when embarrassed or scared.

Then his chuckled turned into laughter when Eliza sent him an ‘angry Eliza emoji with audio and video’

“Ano kaya ’to…” tanong ni Khairro sa sarili saka binuksan niya ang video.

It was Eliza, she was wrapped in a comforter again, and she was angrily looking at the camera then she said ’ tang’na ka ’.

Mabuti nalang mag-isa lang siya sa opisina niya dahil kung hindi, pagtitinginan siya dahil malakas siyang natawa.

Still chuckling from time to time, Khairro called Eliza. “Hey, turtle.”

“Sinong tinatawag mong pagong?” Kaagad na pagtataray sa kaniya ni Eliza.

“You.” Aniya na nangingiti. “You’re like a turtle when you’re hiding in the comforter.”

“Tang’na ka talaga, Pangit.”

Napailing lang siya sa pagmumura nito. “Anyway, I called to tell you that I don’t know when i’m going to be home so don’t wait up for me,”

“Sinong may sabing naghihintay ako sayong Pago ka?!”

“Hindi ka ba napapagod sa kakasigaw sakin?” Nangingiti niyang tanong sa dalaga.

“Hindi!” Eliza snapped. “Pero medyo namamaos na ako kaya babaan ko lang ang boses ko ng kaunti.”

Pigil ni Khairro ang matawa. “Okay.”

“Anong okay? Gago.” Eliza tsked. “Siya nga pala, dumaan dito si Ruth Pascua. May pinabibigay sayong t-shirt.”

“Oh.” He frowned. “What shirt?”

“Malay ko, ako ba ang hiniraman?” Mataray na naman ito. “Susuotin mo pa ba ’yon? Binasura ko na kaya huwag ka nang umasa.”

Khairro’s eyes widened. “Binasura mo? Bakit?”

“E masakit sa mata.” Eliza sounded like she’s pouting. “At marami ka namang t-shirt, hindi mo na kailangan ’yon. May angal ka?”

“Nothing.” Khairro, then, smiled teasingly. “Bakit mo tinapon? Selos ka no? Gusto mo na ako?”

“Tang’na ka.”

“Gasgas na ’yang mura mo. Iba naman.”

“Putang’ina ka.” Malutong na mura ni Eliza. “Hayan, kompleto na yan. Gusto mo ng isa pa?”

“Ano?”

“Letse ka.”

Napailing nalang siya. “I don’t mind you cursing, but did I do something to deserve that curse?”

Natahimik ang nasa kabilang linya. “Wala pero kasalanan mo dahil sabi mo iba naman ang mura na gamitin ko. Buwesit kang Pangit ka! Ginagawa mo akong masama. I hate you!”

Tahimik na natawa si Khairro. “Sorry na.” Alo niya sa dalaga. “So, bakit mo tinatanong kung anong oras ako uuwi?”

“Kasi diba ipagluluto kita kasi masaya ako ngayon — I mean, kanina pala. Hindi na ngayon. Pero ipagluluto pa rin kita kahit gusto kitang lasunin dahil may isang salita ako “

He didn’t know why he finds it amusing hearing Eliza cursed and just listening to her crazy and funny antics.

Maybe that’s why he liked her. It was not just the face. She had a bubbly and savage personality as well, and she was always honest — well, as honest as she could be. Even when she’s embarrassed, she was still honest and straightforward.

Palamura nga lang ito. But it’s part of her personality. It’s part of who she was so asking her not to cussed would be the same as asking her to change.

And there’s nothing wrong with women cussing anyway. Women are entitled to cussed as much as men does.

Though when it comes to the society, cussing was always a double standard.

“Gusto mong umuwi ako ng maaga?” Tanong niya kay Eliza.

“Tapusin mo muna ang trabaho mo.”

He smiled. “8 PM.”

“Okay. Hintayin kita kahit Pangit ka.”

His smile widened. “Okay. I have to go now. See you later.”

“Later. Bye, Pangit.”

“Bye, Eli.”

May ngiti pa rin sa mga labi ni Khairro ng matapos ang tawag. His boring days had ended because of Eliza. He wished she’ll stay by his side for a long time but he knew that’s not going to happen.

His boring days will be back again once Eliza left his condo.

Khairro took a deep breath and sighed. Might as well enjoy ’til she’s not with me anymore.

KHARRO PROMISED ELIZA he’ll be home by eight, but their precinct had a big case that needs his attention that’s why he arrived at his condo at 11PM.

Fuck!

He’s sure that Eliza will surely throw a fit. Hindi niya na reply-yan ang text nito at hindi niya ito natawagan dahil masyadong silang naging abala sa presinto. He didn’t have the time to call or reply to anyone.

Tinulak ni Khairro pabukas ang pinto ng condo saka pumasok at ini-lock ang pinto. Eliza was not in the living room but he could hear her laughter on the dining table.

Kaagad niyang tinungo ang hapagkainan at natigilan sa nakita.

Eliza was sitting on the dining chair, wrapped in a comforter and she was watching a video on her phone that was place on the dining table and she was laughing.

She was watching a stand-up comedy show and she was clearly enjoying it ’til she saw him.

“Oh. You’re here.” Pinatay nito ang pinapanood na video sa cellphone.

“Sorry.” Aniya habang naglalakad palapit sa lamesa. “I’m three hours late.”

Khairro was expecting a fit, but Eliza just shrugged. “Sure. It’s okay. It’s work.”

“Hindi ka galit?” Gulat niyang tanong.

Umiling ito. “It’s work. Saka alam ko namang palaging abala ang mga Pulis kaya ayos lang, hindi kita mumurahin. Initin ko nalang ’tong mga niluto ko. No big deal.”

“Sorry I couldn’t reply to your texts.” Aniya ng makaupo sa hapag-kainan. “I was really busy.”

“Ayos lang.” Ani Eliza na iniinit ang lumamig na nilang pagkain. “When I texted you the second time and you didn’t reply, I know you’re busy. Kaya nga hindi na ako nag-text ulit.”

Khairro was relieved that Eliza wasn’t angry. “Sorry for being late—”

Matalim ang matang nilingon ni Eliza si Khairro. “Isang I’m sorry pa, babatuhin kita nitong sandok.”

Kaagad na tumahimik si Khairro dahil alam niyang kayang tutuhanin ni Eliza ang banta nito.

“Kain na.” Ani Eliza matapos initin ang niluto at inihain na sa lamesa.

“Thanks.” Khairro was about to put a food on Eliza’s plate first when Eliza spoke.

“Damihan mo.” Ani Eliza saka bumalik sa kinauupuan. “Marami akong kumain.”

Hinagod ng tingin ni Khairro ang katawan ni Eliza. “But you’re sexy.”

“Oh, tapos?” Tinaasan ni Eliza ng kilay ang binata. “Hindi lahat ng maraming kumain ay malusog.”

“I didn’t say anything.”

“You were thinking it.”

Hindi nalang umimik si Khairro dahil hindi siya mananalo laban kay Eliza na palaging may sagot sa lahat.

“We’re you bored here?” Tanong ni Khairro kay Eliza habang kumakain sila.

“Nope. Been looking through your pictures. You were so cute when you were a kid.” Eliza grinned at him, “what happened?”

Khairro grinned back. “I’m not cute anymore because i’m handsome now.”

“Bagyong Khairro spotted!”

Khairro laughed. “May pagkidlat ba ulit?”

“May kasamang pagkulog na.”

Natawa ulit si Khairro saka napailing.

“Sa mga larawan na nakita ko, hindi mo masyadong kamukha Dad mo, no?” Kapagkuwan ay sabi ni Eliza.

“That’s because he’s my step-dad.”

I didn’t know that! Eliza thought. “Anong nangyari sa Biological Father mo?”

“He and Mom got divorced when I was still a kid because he had another family that he hid from Mom.” Pagkuwento nito saka masuyong ngumiti. “I was raised by a single mother and I love my mother for that. Even though it was just Mom, I feel loved.” Khairro sighed. “At a very young age, I hear people talking negatively about Mom for raising me alone, for being divorced since my parents got married in the US — like the divorce was my Mom’s fault even though it was my father who fucked up. And when my mother remarry, people feel entitled to say their unsolicited opinions about my step-father choosing the wrong path because he’s marrying a single mom.

“The society and people are so fucked up in my opinion.” Khairro sighed after drinking some water, “before and now, nothing has changed. Victim-blaming is still rampant these days. Like my Mom, she was the victim of cheating but when the divorce happened, people actually blame her for not fighting enough for their marriage to work. Even our own relatives said the same thing. But Mom is a strong woman and she didn’t let any of those negativity affect her. She got married again and now, she’s happy.”

Khairro’s story softened Eliza. “Kaya ba kahit tawagin ka niyang baby boy, ayos lang sayo?”

Naaalala niya ng una niyang nakilala ang mga magulang nito. Some men would correct their mother because of embarrassment for being called baby boy, but Khairro just smiled like it was nothing.

“I don’t mind.” Khairro smiled. “Kung saan masaya si Mom, ayos lang sakin.”

Eliza just sighed inwardly. Khairro really was sweet and a gentleman. Great! Pinupuri ko na siya, sunod nito puri ko na talaga ang ibibigay ko. Mahimasmasan ka sana, self. Puri mo ang nakataya rito.

“How about you?” Khairro asked Eliza after a couple of seconds, “what’s your family like?”

Ilang segundong hindi nakasagot si Eliza bago bumuka ang bibig. “I don’t know.” Napatitig siya sa pinggan na kinakainan. “May amnesia ako kaya wala akong maalala. Ang alam ko lang ay ’yong mga ikinuwento sakin ng Mama ko pero kahit ’yon, pakiramdam ko hindi totoo.” Humigpit ang hawak niya sa kutsara at tinidor. “Pakiramdam ko peke ang buhay at memorya na pilit saking pinapaniwala ni Mama. Minsan nga, pakiramdam ko, hindi ko siya Mama kaya ayoko siyang makita.” Kapagkuwan ay nag-angat siya ng tingin kay Khairro. “Masama ba akong anak dahil ayokong makita o makasama si Mama?”

“Eli…”

Bumuga siya ng marahas na hininga. “Si Matamis na Lunes lang ang tinuturing kong pamilya. Minsan nga, mas nararamdaman ko pa ang pagmamahal ng mga magulang ng boss ko keysa sa Mama ko. Pakiramdam ko kulang ako. Hindi lang memorya ko ang nawawala, may ibang bagay pa na hindi ko maintindihan dahil wala akong maalala. Minsan, may nami-miss ako pero hindi ko alam kung sino. Basta gusto ko lang siyang makita. Miss na miss ko na siya kahit hindi ko maalala kung sino siya.

“And then I met Knight Velasquez’s months ago. Nuong una, hindi ko siya maalala, pero may nangyari at kahit papaano, naalala ko siya — siya ang Kuya ko. Ang Kuya ko na mahal na mahal ako at palagi akong inalagaan noon. Akala ko siya ’yong taong palaging miss na miss ko na hindi ko maalala, pero hanggang ngayon, nararamdaman ko pa rin ’yon.” Bumuga ng marahas na hininga ulit si Eliza. “Hindi ko alam ang gagawin ko. Hanggang ngayon, hindi pa rin ako buo. Hanggang ngayon, kulang pa rin ang pagkatao ko. Hanggang ngayon kinukuwestiyon ko pa rin kung sino ba talaga ako.”

Basa ng luha ang pisngi ni Eliza kaya naman mabilis niyang tinuyo iyon gamit ang mga kamay niya. “Pasensiya, naiyak ako.” Mahina siyang natawa. “Matagal na rin mula ng umiyak ako.”

Khairro’s hand reached for her to caressed her damp cheek, then he said, “it’s okay to cry. I don’t mind.”

Hindi alam ni Eliza kung bakit sa sinabing ’yon ni Khairro, sunod-sunod na bumagsak ang luha niya at mahina siyang humikbi. Biglang lumabas lahat ng kinikimkim niyang sama ng loob, problema, lungkot at kung ano-ano pa na pilit niyang tinatago at sinasarili.

She cried and sobbed and Khairro just held her hand and dried her tears. He stayed with her as tears fell down to her cheeks and her sobbed became louder.

She doesn’t want to cry in front of Khairro, but there’s something about his presence that felt so warm and comforting that her tears just fell without notice. 

And he stayed with her. Not saying a word but his presence was enough to make her comfortable.

“I’m sorry.” Aniya habang tinutuyo ang basang pisngi. “I don’t want you to see me vulnerable like this.”

“I already saw you at your worst,” ani Khairro saka tinulungan siyang tuyuin ang luha sa pisngi niya, “so this is okay. I don’t mind. Though I would like it if it’s only me who gets to see you in your worst.”

Eliza pouted. “Nagpapa-pogi points ka na naman?”

Khairro chuckled and shook his head. “Nope. Do I have to?”

Umiling si Eliza. “Hindi ka naman kasi pogi. Pangit ka di’ba?”

Khairro chuckled again and playfully pinched Eliza’s nose. “Kumain na tayo. Lalamig ulit ang niluto mo.”

Eliza smiled. “Okay.”

Eliza felt relieved while she eat. Siguro dahil nailabas niya rin sa wakas ang bigat sa dibdib niya.

Pasimple siyang sumulyap kay Khairro. I have to thank him again. Bumuntong-hininga siya. Lord, bakit mo naman kami pinaglalapit, ha? Anong nangyari sa pagbabantay sa puri ko? Ano ang gusto mo, mag ‘go to the world and multiply’ ako? Hindi ko pa kaya, Lord. Hindi pa ako handa.

Syempre, hindi sumagot ang panginoon sa tampururot niya. Buti na sigurong hindi sumasagot ang panginoon, baka sumagot ito ng ‘oo’, mabilaukan siya bigla.

Humaba nalang ang nguso ni Eliza habang kumakain, habang si Khairro naman ay paminsan-minsang napapatingin sa dalaga na siyang umubos sa sarili nitong luto.

Yes, Eliza eats a lot. How she remained sexy, he doesn’t know.

“Ako na ang maghuhugas.” Alok si Khairro ng matapos silang kumain.

“Syempre. Duh? Ako kaya ang nagluto.” Inirapan siya nito sa basta nalang siyang iniwan sa kusina.

Napailing nalang si Khairo saka naghugas at nagligpit ng kinainan. Pagkatapos ay tinungo niya ang kuwarto. Nakahiga na si Eliza — balot na balot na naman it ng comforter habang nagpapagulong-gulong sa kama.

Khairro just shook his head with her childish antics.

Kumuha siya ng damit sa closet na wala pa ring pinagbago ang password saka naligo. Nang makalabas siya ng banyo, natigilan siya ng makitang nasa sahig na si Eliza at nakabalot pa rin ng comforter habang sinusubukang bumangon pero hindi naman nito magawa.

“Bagong trip mo na naman ba ’yan?” Tanong niya kay Eliza ng makalapit dito.

Tumingin ito sa kaniya na parang nagsusumbong. “Nahulog ako sa kama, Pangit.”

“Oh.” Umuklo siya saka binuhat ito at ihiniga sa kama. “Sino ba kasing may sabing magpagulong-gulong ka?” Napailing si Khairro. “And why are you wrap in a comforter again?”

“Wala akong bra.” Deretso nitong sagot. “Baka makita mo ang mga iniingatan kong bulubundikin. Nakakahiya.”

Napatikhim nalang si Khairro ng maramdamang naapektuhan ang katawan niya sa sinabi nito. Good God! How horny can I get? Well, it had been a long time since he did the deed. He was busy with work and other stuff to have the time to get laid.

Eliza rolled to her side again with cellphone on her hand. She was watching a stand-up comedy on her phone again.

Nahiga naman si Khairro sa kama saka napatingin kay Eliza na mahinang tumawa. She looked like she’s enjoying herself.

“Let me watch too.” Aniya.

“Okay,” Eliza looked excited as she rolled to his side. “Nakakatawa ’to, promise. He’s my favourite stand-up comedian.”

Umayos naman ng higa si Khairro para manood kasama si Eliza.

It was indeed funny. They watched and laughed together.

Nag-i-enjoy si Eliza manood kasama si Khairro dahil may kasabayan siyang tumawa ng biglang natahimik ang katabi. Nang mag-angat siya ng tingin, nakapikit na ito at mahimbing na natutulog. Mukhang pagod ito sa trabaho.

Eliza ended the video and found herself staring at Khairro’s face.

“Ang pangit mo talaga.” Aniya habang nakatitig dito kapagkuwan ay inilapit niya ang labi sa mukha nito saka hinalikan ito sa nuo. “Good night, Pangit.”

Akmang gugulong ulit si Eliza patungo sa gilid ng kama kung saan siya natutulog ng bigla nalang yumakap ang mga braso ni Khairro sa beywang niya dahilan para hindi siya makagalaw.

Eliza was frozen in place, especially when Khairro pressed his face on her shoulder and neck.

Oh, Lord… Eliza thought when she felt her heart racing. My heart is palpitating. Sakit lang naman ’to diba? Hindi naman ’to yong nagbabalik na karupukan, di’ba?

Gusto niyang kumawala sa yakap ni Khairro pero malakas ang gago.

“Hindi ka yata tulog e.” Aniya habang masama ang tingin sa tulog na binata.

To answer what she said, Khairro even pulled her closer.

This is not good. Help! 911! Mahabaging diyos! Tulungan mo ang puri ko!

Pero walang tulong na dumating kaya naman nanatili si Eliza sa mga bisig ni Khairro habang parang robot na nakatitig sa kisame ng kuwarto.

Hindi alam ni Eliza kung kailangan siya nakatulog pero nakatulog siya, at nang magising siya kinaumagahan, nasa ganung posisyon pa rin sila ni Khairro.

Ang pinagkaiba nga lang, nawala na ang comforter na bumabalot sa katawan niya at may nararamdaman siyang matigas na tumutusok sa hita niya.

Early in the morning, and Eliza’s eyes were wide open already — in shocked.

O. M. G. It’s an etits! Khairro’s etits!

Spell shocked blushing virgin  — E. L. I. Z. A.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 8

This was supposed to be 3k words only. Tapos sabi ko, parang hindi pa sapat. Parang kulang. Kaya hayon, dinagdagan ko at umabot ako ng 4.7k 🤦🏻‍♀️ Nag-uumpisa ka na naman selp 😅

CHAPTER 8

KHAIRRO WAS busy making breakfast while Eliza was just sitting on the breakfast table, comforter wrapped around her body again while sipping her coffee. Khairro’s place was so cold and being wrapped in a comforter has always been her comfort zone, she doesn’t know why. At sobrang lambot at bango ng comforter ni Khairro kaya naman naadik siyang gamitin palagi.

Speaking of Khairro…

Pasimple niyang sinundan ito ng tingin habang nagluluto ng agahan nito. Kapagkuwan ay wala sa sariling bumaba ang tingin niya sa maumbok nitong pang-upo saka tumuon ang mga niya sa ‘kaibigan’ nitong sumaludo kanina nang magising siya.

Eliza was so embarrassed that she didn’t breathe a word of it.

Iyon ang unang beses na nakaramdam siya ng matigas na etits. Goodness ! Hindi niya alam kung dapat ba niya iyong idagdag sa life experiences niya. Nakakaloka!

She doesn’t want to tell anyone what happened, she really doesn’t want to, but she was having a hard time keeping it to herself because, well, it concerns Khairro too.

“Pangit?”

“Yeah?”

“Bakit matigas ka kanina ng magising ako?”

Kunot ang nuong nilingon siya ng binata. “Matigas?”

“Yeah.” Bumaba ang tingin niya sa pagkalalaki nito at hindi iyon nakatakas kay Khairro. “Matigas yang … ano mo ng magising ako at dahil yakap-yakap mo ako, sinusundot-sundot niya ang hita ko. Muntik na akong mahimatay sa sobrang gulat, Pangit.”

Khairro looked down on his crotch and cleared his throat before giving back his attention to their breakfast. “It’s morning wood. It’s normal.”

“Ah.” Tumango-tango si Eliza saka sumimsim ng kape. “Bakit nuong mga nakaraang araw hindi naman yan matigas?”

“Bakit? Yakap ba kita nuong nga nakaraang araw?” Balik tanong sa kaniya ni Khairro.

Natahimik si Eliza saka nagtanong ulit. “Masakit ba? Hindi ba kailangan kayong labasang mga lalaki kung hindi masasaktan kayo? Nagsari—” tumigil si Eliza sa pagtatanong dahil parang nakakahiya namang tanungin si Pangit kung nagsarili ito.

May hiya pa rin pala ako.

“What were you saying?”

Umiling si Eliza. “Nothing. By the way,” iniba niya ang topic, “kumusta na ’yong paghahanap sa mga nanloob sa condo ko?”

Nilingon siya ni Khairro. “Gusto mo nang umuwi?”

Tumango si Eliza. “Gusto ko na ring magtrabaho. Alam kong palaging absent ang boss ko at palagi akong galit, pero kailangan niya ako ngayon sa opisina. He loves taking care of his triplets and he can only do that if i’m at work.”

“So it has nothing to do with running away from me?”

Napatingin si Eliza sa binata. “Why would I run away?”

“I don’t know.”

Umingos si Eliza. “Paano ako tatakbo at magtatago e alam mo ang address ko? Baliw ’to.”

“But after this, you’re planning to stay away from me, right?”

Natahimik siya dahil ’yon ang plano niya. ’Yon ang napagkasunduan nila.

“Do you really dislike me that much?” Khairro asked.

Nag-iwas ng tingin si Eliza. “Yeah, but, n-not anymore.”

Natigilan si Khairro sa narinig. Naisip niya na baka pinaglalaruan lang siya ng pandinig niya pero ng makita niyang hindi makatingin sa kaniya si Eliza, napangiti siya. “Not anymore? Really?”

“Yeah.” Eliza was still looking everywhere but Khairro. “Pero hindi ibig sabihin no’n ay gusto na kita. Hindi lang ako galit. ’Yon ’yon kaya huwag kang mag-isip ng kung ano-ano—” napatigil sa pagsasalita si Eliza ng bigla nalang lumapit sa kaniya si Khairro saka sinapo ang mukha niya, umuklo at inilapat ang mga labi nito sa labi niya.

Eliza was stunned for a second before it registered to her that Khairro was kissing her. Again!

But unlike the kiss he stole, this one was deeper and more sensual. And she was seduced into opening her mouth to let him in.

Humigpit ang pagkakahawak niya sa comforter ng maramdaman niya ang dila ng binata na pumasok sa bibig niya. She actually moaned softly when his tongue teased hers. The tingling sensation from her mouth created by Khairro was shooting down to her belly and awakening something in her thighs and in between them.

Eliza was so into the kiss that she nearly groaned in disappointment when Khairro pulled away.

She bit her lower lip when Khairro stared at her for a couple of seconds. “What?”

“Do you like me now?” Khairro asked.

She pouted and looked away. “Hindi porke’t tinugon ko ang halik mo ay gusto na kita. Gago ka ba?”

Khairro smiled and caressed her cheek. “Then why are you blushing?”

“I am not!”

“And why can’t you look at me?”

“I am looking.”

“Oh?”

Eliza forced herself to looked at Khairro but she ended up staring at his slightly parted natural red lips. “It’s unfair.”

“What?”

“Bakit mas mapula pa ang labi mo keysa sakin?”

Natigilan si Khairro saka biglang natawa. “Akala ko naman kung ano nang sasabihin mo.” Kapagkuwan ay hinalikan ulit siya nito saka bahagyang kinagat-kagat ang labi niya. “There. It’s red now.”

Tiningnan niya ng masama ang binata. “That’s not it!”

“Hmm-mm.” Khairro just hummed and kissed her again, this time it was just a nibble and some licking.

Eliza tightened the comforter around her. “Why do you keep kissing me?” She asked in between Khairro’s kisses.

“Because your lips feels good.”

Eliza tsked. “Hindi mo ako mabobola.”

Khairro just continued kissing Eliza and speaking in between kisses, “your lips are soft,” he nibbled on her lower lip, “your breath smells good,” he licked her upper lip, “and your lips feels good.” He snaked his tongue inside her mouth again and Eliza couldn’t do anything but accept it and moaned at the sensation.

“You’re not a gentleman at all.” Eliza said in between kisses.

Khairro deepened the kiss even more. “Push me away and i’ll be a gentleman.”

Eliza let go of the comforter she was gripping, not to pushed Khairro away but to wound her arms around Khairro.

Because damn it, if she was being honest, she was turned on by his kisses. Every time he kissed her, her body always responded hot and bothered. She never felt like this to her ex-boyfriends.

Only this motherfucker could make her feel like this. Only Khairro.

Both panting and still kissing fervently, the two stilled when they smelled something burning.

Sabay na tumigil ang dalawa sa paghahalikan at napatingin sa niluluto ni Khairro.

“Fuck!” Khairro hissed when he saw their breakfast burning.

Kaagad itong tumakbo patungo sa stove para isalba ang niluluto nito habang si Eliza naman ay ipinasok ulit ang sarili sa loob ng comforter dahil sa hiyang naradamdaman.

Eliza, ano ba’ng iniisip mo, ha? Bakit nakipag-slight momol ka kay Pangit? Bibili na talaga ako ng kadena.

Khairro was relieved he was able to salvage their breakfast, but when he faced Eliza again, she was cocooned inside the comforter. Again.

She’s hiding again and Khairro knew why. It’s what Eliza does when threatened, scared or highly embarrassed.

Inilagay niya ang agahan sa breakfast table saka pinakatitigan ang dalaga na nasa loob pa rin ng comforter. “You’re embarrassed that much?”

“Hmm.” Eliza hummed from inside of the comforter.

Pigil ni Khairro ang matawa. “What’s so embarrassing about kissing?”

“Kasi marupok ako.” Anito sa boses na parang nangsusumbong at nagsisisi. “Ayoko sayo, di’ba? Panay sabi ko na ayoko sayo, pero tingnan mo ngayon. Kasalanan mo ’to. Inaakit mo ako.”

Natatawang niyakap niya ang dalaga na nasa comforter saka hinalikan ang ulo nito. “Lumabas ka na riyan. Papasok na naman ako sa trabaho. I want to see you before I leave.”

Slowly, Eliza came out from the comforter and looked at him while blushing. “It’s just a kiss.”

“Hmm-mm.”

Humaba ng nguso ni Eliza. “Bakit parang hindi ka naniniwala?”

Khairro shrugged before sitting on his chair. “You can deny it all you want, Eli, but we both know it’s not ‘just’ a kiss.” Anito. “I don’t think you’re the kind of woman who would kiss just anyone.”

Natahimik si Eliza saka nag-iwas ng tingin.

“Do you really hate the idea of kissing me?” Tanong ni Khairro kay Eliza ng nag-aagahan na sila.

“You broke my heart.” Ang tanging sagot ni Eliza.

“Do you want revenge because I broke your heart?” Kapagkuwan ay tanong ni Khairro na ikinatigil ni Eliza at ikinatitig dito. “Is this what it is?”

“No.” Mabilis na sabot ni Eliza. “I’m not like that …”

“Then what?” Khairro was still asking calmly even though the question was frustrating.

Nagbaba ng tingin si Eliza dahil ayaw niyang sumagot, ayaw niyang sabihin dito ang dahilan kung bakit. It was not the fear of getting hurt again, it’s another fear that she couldn’t openly talk about.

Khairro sighed while looking at Eliza’s pained face. “I’m sorry. Forget my questions, just rest.”

Hindi na umimik si Eliza hanggang sa makaalis si Khairro para pumasok sa trabaho. Nang mag-isa nalang siya sa hapag-kainan, tumulo ang ilang butil ng luha sa pisngi niya.

“I’m not afraid to get hurt.” Bulong niya, “i’m more afraid of hurting you.”

Tinuyo ni Eliza ang luha sa pisngi saka napatingala sa kisame. And while staring at the ceiling, she was reminded again about the memory she already buried deep in her mind. The horror that she went through from her last relationship.

“I don’t want you … to end up like him.”

IT’S BEEN A COUPLE of days since Khairro called Shun and there was nothing. No calls or update. He must be protecting Eliza if he’s not willing to talk. She’s Knight’s sister after all. Pero hindi pa rin niya maintindihan paano naging magkapatid ang dalawa. Alam nilang lahat na magkakaibigan na nag-iisang anak lang si Knight.

But now, there’s Eliza and looked like Knight really cared about her.

Speaking of Knight, he received a message from Velasquez after he arrived in the precinct.

‘Sanford, just protect Eliza. Don’t dig deeper into this. I want you and Eliza safe. Do it for me, bud.’

His reply to Velasquez was ’ okay ’ but he was worried. What have you gotten yourself into, bud? He wanted to offer his help, but he thought he’ll be more helpful by protecting Eliza. Whatever trouble Knight had gotten himself into, he’s sure that he’ll asked for help if he really needed it.

Bumuntong-hininga si Khairro saka lumabas ng sasakyan niya na kapaparada lang niya sa labas ng gusali na pag-aari ng ina kung saan nasa roof top ang Helicopter niya. Gusto na niyang umuwi. Gusto na niyang makita si Eliza.

He was about to step away from his car when his peripheral vision caught two men on a motorcycle, gun on their hands, aiming for him.

Khairro immediately rolled on the hood of his car to get to the other side and hid himself.

It happened so fast that in a blink of an eye, the gun men were now no where to be seen after firing multiple shots at him.

Napansandal si Khairro sa gilid ng sasakyan saka napaigik ng maramdaman ang pagsigid ng kirot sa kalamnan niya.

Those motherfuckers grazed his shoulder. Fuck !

Sumakay siya sa sasakyan gamit ang pinto sa passenger seat saka umusog nalang siya patungong driver’s seat. Even when his shoulder was hurting like hell, enough to make his vision blurry, Khairro made sure to drive carefully to the Hospital.

Daplis lang ’yon kaya naman sa E.R. lang ginamot ang sugat niya. The Doctor wanted him to stay for 24-Hours to monitor him but he declined and just took the pain reliever. Kailangan niyang makauwi. Those motherfucker might tracked his condo down and harm Eliza. He had to be there for her!

Driving to his condo was hell. The traffic was severe and the pain on his shoulder, even after taking the pain reliever, still hurts. He wouldn’t be able to pull the lever of the Helicopter so he chose to drive home.

Shun called, but he doesn’t even remember what he replied to him when he asked if he’s okay because his head was starting to feel hazy.

By the time he arrived in his condo, Khairro was feeling worse. The gun shot wound on his shoulder was getting more painful that he wanted to take another pain reliever.

Pushing the door to his condo, Khairro stumbled inside, went straight to his room and fell on the bed. Not seeing Eliza who just came out from the bathroom and saw the whole thing.

KAAGAD NA binitawan ni Eliza ang towel na tinutuyo niya sa basang buhok at kaagad na dinaluhan si Khairro.

“Pangit? Khairro?” She was shaking his body but he was not responding.

Eliza was starting to panic when she saw blood on Khairro’s shirt but she tried her hardest to calmed down even when her hands were shaking at the sight of blood.

Eliza was trembling in fear as she tried to move Khairro on the bed. She keeps looking away because the sight of blood was making her head feel hazy and she was seeing horrid pictures in her mind of a person bleeding out and dying in front of her that was adding to her fear.

“No … he’s not going to die.” Aniya sa sarili sa nanginginig na boses habang inaalis niya ang t-shirt na suot ni Khairro. She was finally able to moved him to the center of the bed. “Hang in there, Pangit. Don’t you dare leave me.”

With trembling hands, Eliza forced himself to look down at Khairro’s bleeding shoulder. Kahit natatakot, dahan-dahan pa rin niyang inalis ang gauze para tingnan ang sugat nito.

She should feel relieved when she saw that his wound was already cleaned, but her fear just intensified when he felt his body burning up.

“Oh, God…” mahina niyang sambit saka nagmamadaling tinawagan si Matamis na Lunes.

“Eli—”

“Help me.” Kaagad niyang sabi. “Hindi ko alam ang gagawin ko. May sugat si Khairro sa balikat, tapos may lagnat siya ngayon. Anong gagawin ko, Matamis na Lunes? Natatakot ako…”

“Eli,” Matamis na Lunes’ voice was calm and somehow, it calmed her down a little, “calm down. Wala kang magagawa ng maayos kung magpa-panic ka.”

“I’m scared…”

“I know, but I’m not there to calm you right now, so take a deep breath and calm your thoughts.”

Sinunod naman ni Eliza si SM at kahit papaano ay nabawasan ang panic na nararamdaman niya.

“Are you feeling okay now?” SM asked softly.

“Y-yeah.”

“That’s good.” SM’s soft voice was calming. “Okay. Listen to me. I’m going to tell you what happened.”

“Okay.”

“Nalaman ko lang ’to kanina kay Shun.” Panimula ni SM, “Captain got shot outside his mother’s building while stepping out from his car. Mabuti raw at nakapagtago kaagad siya sa likod ng sasakyan niya pero tinamaan pa rin siya ng bala. Captain already went to the Hospital to check and clean his wound, but he declined the 24-Hours observation and just took some pain reliever. Shun called him and asked if he needs assistance and he told him that he can take care of it and not to worry.”

Mariing ipinikit ni Eliza ang mga mata. “Dahil ba ’to sakin?”

“We don’t know yet, Eli.”

Kinagat niya ang pang-ibabang labi. “Please, help me, Matamis na Lunes. I don’t know what to do.”

“First, calm down.” Ani SM, “second, be there for him. I’m sending someone to Captain’s condo and when he wakes up, tell him not to worry, we will clean up the mess those gun men did outside his mother’s building.”

Ang dami niyang gustong itanong kay Matamis na Lunes, tungkol sa kung paano nito nalaman lahat ’yon, pero mas priority niya si Khairro kaya naman ‘okay’ lang ang sinagot niya kay Matamis na Lunes saka bumalik sa tabi ng binata para bantayan ito.

It didn’t take awhile before the ‘someone’ sent by Matamis na Lunes arrived.

Gulat na napakurap si Eliza sa dalawang lalaking pinagbuksan niya. “Cloud?” It’s her brother’s butler. “Jacques?” It’s Matamis na Lunes’ butler.

Jacques just waved at her while Cloud smiled and said. “We’re here to check up on the Captain?”

“Oh, yeah.” Kaagad niyang pinapasok ang nga ito saka ini-lock ang pinto at iginiya ang dalawa sa loob ng kuwarto.

As Cloud checked up on Khairro, Eliza and Jacques were on the sofa, both watching Cloud.

“I didn’t know Cloud is a Doctor.” Ani Eliza.

“He’s not.” Sagot ni Jacques saka masuyo itong ngumiti habang nakatingin kay Cloud, “he has a medical background though. Don’t worry, he’s always the one who takes care of me every time I get cuts and stuff like that.”

“Thanks for coming.” Aniya.

Jacques just nodded and they continued watching Cloud work ’til he finishes and faced Eliza to gave her instructions.

“Thank you.” Aniya kay Cloud at Jacques ng magpaalam ang dalawa na aalis na. “Tell Matamis na Lunes I said thanks.”

The two just smiled, slight bowed their heads and left with Cloud’s arm draped around Jacques’ shoulder while the latter was pushing Cloud away who was just chuckling.

Isinara ulit ni Eliza ang pintuan ng condo saka bumalik sa kuwarto para alagaan si Khairro.

Cloud said Khairro just had a fever because of his wound and he’ll be okay tomorrow because he already administered medicine for Khairro’s fever, but she was still worried. Panay ang punas niya sa katawan nito, naglagay rin siya ng cold compress na bigay ni Cloud sa nuo nito. Hindi siya natulog magdamag para lang bantayan ang binata.

And Eliza was more than relieved when dawn came and Khairro’s fever finally went down.

Doon lang siya kumalma at hinayaan na rin niya ang sarili na makatulog sa tabi ni Khairro.

KHAIRRO WOKE UP FEELING like shit, his body felt a bit heavy, but when he opened his eyes and saw Eliza sleeping peacefully beside him, he felt a little better, especially when he saw her hand intertwined with his.

Tumagilid siya ng higa para matitigan ito ng mabuti. She looked worn out.

He remembered what happened last night. He was in pain, he felt so bad and he just fell on the bed. Inalagaan ba niya ako?

The small basin on the bedside table caught his attention and the cold compress on his forehead.

He looked at Eliza. “So you took care of me.” Khairro smiled and placed a soft kiss on Eliza’s forehead. “Thank you.”

Khairro was planning to move away quickly before Eliza wakes up, but Eliza moved on her sleep and wrapped her arm around his waist and pressed her body against his.

Khairro knew that he should distance himself because Eliza might not like it, but he couldn’t. Instead, he wrapped his arm around her and closed his eyes to sleep again.

When he woke up again, Eliza was not beside him anymore. Akmang babangon siya para hanapin ito ng pumasok ang dalaga sa kuwarto habang may dalang tray na may umuusok pang pagkain.

She looked relieved when she saw him. “Nagluto ako ng sopas.” Anito saka inilapag ang tray sa bedside table at umupo ito sa gilid ng kama saka sinalat ng palad nito ang nuo niya. “Salamat naman wala ka nang lagnat. Pinag-alala mo ako.”

Napatitig siya kay Eliza. For a woman who told him straight up that she doesn’t like him, she act like she does. He couldn’t be wrong, he could feel it, she liked him more than just friends.

But she adamantly denies it for some reason unknown to him.

He’s not the kind of guy to beat around the bush that’s why he’s getting frustrated because with Eliza, he had to slow down, because if he didn’t, he’ll lose her and he doesn’t want that.

She was the first woman who he feels comfortable being with and the first woman who made him happy with her crazy antics. Eliza was like a breath of fresh air for him, refreshing. The only woman who could shut him up, put him in place and the only woman except for his mother who could scare — no — startled him.

That’s why he liked her, because she’s not a soft woman. She’s weird, savage, strong, independent and her confidence was sexy as hell.

“Bakit nakatingin ka sakin ng ganiyan?” Usisa ni Eliza kay Khairro na ilang segundo na itong nakatitig sa kaniya.

Khairro smiled. “I was thinking why I like you.”

Eliza flicked Khairro’s nose. “Mamaya na ’yan, puwede ba? Kumain ka muna. Hindi ako nang-aaway ng mahina kaya magpalakas ka.”

Natawa nalang si Khairro saka bumangon at nag-umpisang kainin ang agahan na inihanda ni Eliza.

And he had to admit that the macaroni soup she made tasted better than his.

“Tumawag pala ang sekretarya mo,” imporma ni Eliza kay Khairro matapos itong kumakain. “Sinabi kong may sakit ka kaya hindi ka makakapasok. Ayos lang ba na pinakialaman ko ang tawag sayo?”

Khairro looked at Eliza in amusement. “Said the woman who throws my shirt.”

“I didn’t.” Sagot ni Eliza saka nag-iwas ng tingin. “Binibiro lang kita no’ng sinabi ko ’yon. Ang totoo, inilagay ko sa closet mo ’yong t-shirt mo.”

He was taken aback. “Really?”

“Yeah.” Eliza pouted. “What do you take me for? I maybe say some crazy shit sometimes, but I would never throw your stuff without your permission— well, except for the password.“Nakangiwi itong ngumiti. “Hindi ko kaya ang password mo kaya pinalitan ko.”

Mahinang natawa nalang si Khairro. “It’s okay.”

Eliza handed Khairro some medicine and a glass of water. “Heto. Inumin mo para maging maayos ka na.”

“Thank you.” Khairro took the medicine and went back to lying on the bed again because he still feels a little sick.

Natigilan at nagulat siya ng ayusin ni Eliza ang comforter na nakakumot sa katawan niya bago ito lumabas ng kuwarto para dalhin sa kusina ang pinagkainan niya.

Napatitig si Khairro sa nilabasang pinto ni Eliza. She’s making him like her more. What am I going to do?

Hanggang sa makabalik si Eliza sa kuwarto, nandoon pa rin ang katanungan na ’yon sa isip niya.

Umupo si Eliza sa gilid ng kama saka sinalat ng palad nito ang nuo niya.

“Hindi ka na mainit.” She smiled in relief. “Buti naman.”

Pinakatitigan niya si Eliza na natilan ng makita ang matiim niyang titig.

“What?” She asked, but not in a haughty tone like she used to.

“You took care of me and you’re nice to me. What are you going to do … if I fall for you?”

Eliza stilled, but she never broke their eye contact. “Don’t … I might — no, I will just hurt you and you don’t deserve it.”

“You don’t know that—”

Umiling si Eliza ng marahas. “I do know that.” May diin na sabi nito. “You don’t know me, Pangit. It’s better for you to forget about me and find someone better.”

“But I don’t want to.”

“Masasaktan ka lang sakin.”

“Just give me a chance.”

Umiling ulit si Eliza. “You’re a good guy, Cap.” Anito saka malungkot na ngumiti. “You deserve someone better and in my state right now, I’m not going to be better because I don’t know how to be better. If you continue to pursue me, you’re going to be in a toxic relationship with me and I don’t want that for you. Siguro hindi mo pa ’yon nakikita ngayon, pero toxic akong tao. Lahat ng nakapaligid sakin, nasasaktan ko. That’s why even when I want to be with my best friend everyday, I keep my distance because I don’t want her to be hurt by me.”

“Eli…” Khairro could feel the pain in her eyes. She was not just saying it so he’ll gave up, she really meant it. “You’re not going to hurt me.” Nangangako ang boses niya.

Mapakla itong ngumiti. “I will hurt you, whether I like it or not, I will hurt you.”

Bumangon si Khairro saka sinapo ang mukha ni Eliza. “Just a chance.” He’s not going to gave up so easily. “Let’s just go out, have fun and date each other exclusively. No pressure, nothing. Just dating. Then if you became toxic, I’ll back away. I promise.”

Umiling na naman si Eliza saka inalis ang kamay niyang nakasapo sa mukha nito. “I can’t, Pangit. I can’t hurt you like that.”

“But—”

“Khairro,” umangat ang kamay nito saka hinaplos ang gilig ng pisngi niya, “please give up on me. It’s just ‘like’. It’ll fade away. Gusto mo lang ako kasi palagi tayong magkasama pero mawawala rin ’yan, mabubura yan kapag wala na ako sa tabi mo.”

Khairro pressed his lips together, his face turned cold. “Eliza, don’t invalidate my feelings just because you don’t like it.”

Nagbaba ng tingin si Eliza. “I’m sorry.”

Khairro sighed and went back to bed. “I’m not going to give up.” Anito kapagkuwan. “I know you like me, I can see it, Eli, and I’m going to make you say you like me too.”

Eliza blows a loud breath and glared at Khairro. “What’s wrong with you? Ilang linggo mo palang akong kilala. If not for my brother’s wedding or for my brother’s request, you wouldn’t even know I exist.”

“Wrong.” He looked at Eliza. “I know you exist before that, I saw you on Calyx’s wedding.”

Natigilan si Eliza saka nagsalita. “Hindi pa rin sapat na dahilan ’yon.”

Khairro sighed while looking at Eliza. “I like you, Eli. I don’t need years to figure that out and I don’t like beating around the bush. I like you, so I’m telling you. You said you’re not a shy-type, i’m not as well. I can be straightforward if I want to.”

Eliza smiled sadly.

Khairro’s hand reached out to caressed her lips. “What’s with the sad smile?”

“Kasi kung kailan ayoko, saka mo ako nagustuhan. Samantalang noon, binasted mo ako tapos kinalimutan pa. Akala mo masaya ’yon?” Umingos si Eliza. “Nakaka-trauma kaya ’yon. Grabeng lakas ng loob ang inipon ko, umamin lang sayo kasi hindi ako shy type na babae pero, hayon, basted.”

Hinawakan ni Khairro si Eliza sa pulsuhan saka hinila ito pahiga sa kama, sa tabi niya saka masuyo itong niyakap.

Naramdaman niya ang paninigas nito sa bisig niya, kaya naman hinalikan niya ito sa gilid ng nuo.

“Don’t worry. I’m just going to hug you. Wala akong ibang gagawin.” Aniya.

“Alam ko.” Sagot ni Eliza na nakatitig sa kisame. “Hindi ka naman ganung klaseng tao. Ayoko lang na naglalapit sayo. Nagiging marupok ako e tapos namamalayan ko nalang naghahalikan na tayo. Hindi ba, hindi nga kita gusto?”

“Hindi mo mapapanindigan ’yang ‘hindi kita gusti’ kasi hindi naman totoo.” Ani Khairro.

Tiningnan ni Eliza si Khairro ng masama saka hinila nito ang comforter at ipinalibot nito iyon sa katawan nito at tinalikuran siya nito.

Nangingiting niyakap ni Khairro mula sa likuran si Eliza saka isinubsob ang mukha niya sa batok nito. “You smell good.”

“Malamang, kakaligo ko lang.”

“You feel soft too.” Ani Khairro ng higpitan nito ang yakap kay Eliza. “You feel nice to hug. So comfortable.”

Siniko ni Eliza si Khairro. “Tigilan mo ako. Hindi kita boyfriend, huwag mo akong yakapin ng ganiyan.”

Khairro groaned and tightened his embraced on Eliza. “Now I want to search for your exes and beat the shit out of them.”

“You’re a Police Officer.” Paalala ni Eliza kay Khairro.

“I can beat them up. I’ll just hide my badge.”

“That’s not the point.”

“Yes, it is. I’m feeling jealous because they hugged you like this.”

Umingos si Eliza. “Hindi kita jowa para mag-selos ka.”

“Dahil lang ba wala tayong relasyon, wala na akong karapatang mag selos?” Ungot ni Khairro. “Nagselos ka nga kay Ruth.”

Mabilis na umikot paharap si Eliza kay Khairro. “Excuse me?!”

“You’re not excuse.” Khairro said with a teasing smile and kissed Eliza on the lips. A peck. “Stay with me. Huwag ka munang umalis.” Pigil niya sa dalaga ng akmang babangon ito. “Masakit pa ang balikat ko. Alagaan mo ako.”

Tumigil ito sa paggalaw saka tiningnan siya ng masama. “Yakap lang, walang halik.”

Khairro grinned.

Dinuro ni Eliza si Khairro. “Kapag hinalikan mo ako, ako na ang babaril sayo.”

Khairro just smiled and tightened his hold on Eliza ’til he felt her relaxed in his arms.

She fell asleep. Napangiti siya habang tinititigan ang dalaga. “You must be really tired from taking care of me all night.” He kissed her forehead and whispered, “sleep tight, my cheeky turtle.” He smiled. “You have to get ready. I’m going to woo you from head to toe ’til you could no longer deny it and say I like you too.”

That’s a promise.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 9

“I WANT TO go back to work.” Wika ni Eliza habang nag-aalmusal sila ni Khairro. “Gusto ko na ring bumalik sa condo ko. I can’t stay here forever just because it’s dangerous. I won’t let those bad guys control my life.”

“Kailangan mo gustong umuwi?”

Nagulat si Eliza sa tanong na ’yon ni Khairro. “Hahayaan mo ako?”

Khairro nodded. “Yeah. If that’s what you want. I also figured that I can’t keep you from the world forever just because it’s dangerous outside. You have your life to live.”

Eliza was relieved that Khairro agreed with her. “I want to go back to my condo today, if that’s okay.”

“Sure.”

That was unexpected . Eliza thought Pangit will make a fuss over her decision. Mukhang iniintindi nito ang kalagayan niya at ayaw nitong maburyo siya rito sa condo nito. Well, he’s 95% gentleman after all.

Pero nakakapagtaka pa rin ang mabilis nitong pagsangayon sa kaniya. Oh, well, it’s a good thing I think.

“Pack your things, ihahatid kita sa condo mo bago ako pumasok ngayon, pero bukas ka na pumasok sa opisina. Is that okay?”

“Okay,” she smiled. Salamat naman at makakabalik na siya sa trabaho. Siguradong stress na ngayon ang boss niyang minsan lang pumasok. She needs fo help him out.

Eliza was excited to go home that’s why after breakfast, she immediately packed her clothes and all her stuff in Khairro’s room and Khairro accompanied her to her condo. Of course, they ride on Khairro’s helicopter.

But it’s not Stronghold, it’s alligator. Apparently, he had two helicopters.

“Can I go out and buy some stuff?” Tanong ni Eliza ng maihatid na siya ni Khairro sa condo niya.

“May mini-store sa baba, doon ka nalang muna bumili.”

“Okay.”

“Be careful.”

“I will.”

“Good.” Hinalikan siya nito sa nuo na ikinagulat niya. “I’ll call you later to check up on you.”

“Okay.” ’Yon lang ang nasabi ni Eli dahil nagulat pa rin siya dahil hinalikan na naman siya ng binata sa labi.

Nalukot ang mukha niya ng makaalis si Khairro. “Namimihasa ang pangit na ’yon, ah. Pero parupok yata ako ng parupok. Nanganganib ang puri ko.”

Naiiling na tuluyan siyang pumasok sa condo at natigilan ng makitang maayos at malinis iyon. Walang senyales na pinanlooban ang condo niya at pinagtatapon ang gamit niya.

Every piece of her furniture was back to where they were. No cracks. Nothing. It’s like they’re brand new.

Did Pangit do this?

Kaagad niya itong tinext.

To: Pangit 💔

‘Inayos mo ang condo ko?’

Eliza put a broken heart on Pangit’s name because Pangit broke her heart. Paalala para hindi siya maging marupok ulit. Pero sa totoo lang, wala namang gamit ’yon. Marupok pa rin siya.

Pangit replied, ’ I did what I could. ’

Eliza felt happy and replied ’ thanks, Pangit.’.

Tinungo ni Eliza ang kuwarto saka napangiti ng makitang maayos ’yon. Kapagkuwan ay nakita niya ang note na iniwan ni Khairro sa bedside table niya.

’I hope I fix your condo right. – Handsome with Abs, K. S.

Mahina siyang natawa saka pinalibot ang tingin sa kuwarto niya. Hindi niya alam kung kailan inayos ni Khairro ang condo niya pagkatapos nang nangyari. Some furnitures were not on their right place, but Eliza let it be. She liked the idea of Khairro fixing her condo for her.

Napailing nalang siya saka pabagsak na nahiga sa kama at napatitig sa kisame.

Naka-move on na ba talaga ako? Tanong niya sa sarili habang nakatitig sa kisame. I think Matamis na Lunes is right, I still like him.

Eliza blows a loud breath. Nawala nga ba ’yong pagkagusto ko sa pangit na ’yon?

Napailing siya kapagkuwan ay napangiwi ng maalala niya ang ’ deal ’ nila ni Khairro.

Wala sa sariling napahawak siya sa baba ng puson niya. Holy shit tang’na! Ang puri ko! Nasapo ni Eliza ang mukha. “Oh, no! Ang bandera ng bataan ko, wawagaywag na! Oh, shit! No, no, no, no!” Bumangon sa pagkakahiga si Eli saka humarap sa salamin at kinausap ang sarili. “Eli, self, maghunusdili kang gaga ka, kapag nawala ang takip ng puri mo, hindi na babalik ’yon. Gusto mo ‘yon, ha?’

Well, I’m already 27.

Napatitig si Eliza sa mukha niya sa salamin at nasapo ulit niya iyon ng makita ang kislap sa mga mata niya.

Self! Ang rupok mo!

He said he likes her though.

Ano ’to? Crush ko noon, crush na ako ngayon?

Napailing si Eliza sa mga iniisip. Nanganganib ang buhay niya pero lumalandi pa rin siya. What’s wrong with that? It’s called flirting with danger.

Mahinang natawa si Eliza sa naisip saka naisip niyang lumabas para mamili ng nga kakailanganin niya sa condo ngayong bumalik na siya at para na rin hindi kung ano-ano ang iniisip niya.

Nang makalabas siya ng condo, napaigtad sa gulat si Eliza ng makita ang dalawang Pulis na nakatayo sa labas lang ng pintuan ng condo niya.

Napalinga-linga pa siya dahil baka may nangyaring krimen na malapit lang sa condo niya pero tahimik ang buong hallway.

Anong nangyayari?

“Ahm, excuse me?” Kuha niya sa atensiyon ng dalawang Pulis. “Anong ginagawa niyo sa labas ng condo ko?”

Nanatiling nakatayo ng tuwid ang dalawang Pulis habang sumasagot sa kaniya. “Pinadala ho kami ni Chief rito para ho bantayan kayo, Ma’am.”

Napangiwi si Eliza. Kaya naman pala ang bilis pumayag ng pangit na ’yon.

“Ganun ba?” Aniya. “Ah, puwede ba akong bumaba? May bibilhin lang ako.”

“Sasamahan ka ho namin, Ma’am.”

For her own safety, Eliza agreed. Kaya bumaba siya ng may kasamang dalawang Pulis at buti nalang hindi siya mahiyaing tao dahil para siyang may nagawang krimen habang nasa likod niya ang dalawa at namimili siya. Parang binabantayan siya para hindi magnakaw.

Good thing nothing serious happened inside the mini store except for people’s funny look at her for having two Police Officers behind her.

“Thank you.” Aniya sa dalawa ng makabalik sila sa condo niya saka inabot ang energy drink na binili niya sa mga ito. “Heto, habang nagbabantay kayo. I’m going to cook lunch. Anong gusto niyong kainin?”

“Naku, huwag na ho, Ma’am.” Anang isa na may apelyidong Diaz. “Covered ho ni Sir Khairro ang allowance namin.”

That made her raised her eyebrow. “Talaga?” Hindi siya pumasok sa condo at nakipag-tsismisan nalang sa dalawang bantay niya na mukhang handang sagutin ang mga tanong niya. “Mabait ba ang Chief niyo?”

“Oho, Ma’am.” Sagot ni Suarez, isa sa dalawang Pulis. “Lalo na kapag birthday namin o kaya naman Pasko. Palaging may regalo si Chief samin.”

“Cash ba?”

Ang lapad ng ngiti ni Diaz. “Yes, Ma’am. Sampung libo kami isa-isa.”

Napatanga siya. “Ganun siya kayaman?”

“’Yon ang dinig namin, Ma’am.” Sagot ni Suarez. “Kaya siguro ayaw na ayaw ni Chief ng mga padulas ng mga Politiko minsan kapag may nahuhuli kaming lumalabag sa batas. Mayaman na kasi si Chief. Pero siya lang Ma’am ’yong mayaman na mabait at parang ka-tropla lang namin minsan kung makipag-usap samin.”

Well, ganun naman lahat ang kaibigan ng boss Calyx niya. Parang mga tambay sa kanto. Maybe because they like the informal feeling since all their life, from business to other stuff, they had to be formal.

“May girlfriend na ba ’yang Chief niyo?” Tanong niya.

“Ikaw ho.”

Nasamid si Eliza sa sariling laway. “Ano?”

“Kayo ho di’ba ang girlfriend ni Chief?” Ani Diaz.

Ano bang pinagsasasabi ng pangit na ’yon sa mga tauhan nito?

“Wala bang ibang babae na pumupunta sa presinto niyo para bisitahin ang Chief niyo?” Pag-iiba niya ng topic.

“’Yong Mama niya lang ho, Ma’am. Ayaw na ayaw kasi ni Chief na paghaluin ang trabaho at personal na buhay.”

Pigil ni Eliza na hindi umingos. Anong ayaw e ’yon ang ginawa niya samin. She’s supposed to be his job ’ only ’. Pero nilandi niya lang naman ako habang nagta-trabaho siya.

“Pero naalala mo nuong palaging on leave si Chief noon?” Paalala ni Diaz kay Suarez. “May kasama siyang babae no’n palagi diba? ’Yong magandang babae na ang tawag sa kaniya ‘Khai’.”

“Oo nga, naaalala ko ’yon.” Kaagad na sabi ni Suarez.

Khai? Si Ruth?

“Huwag kang mag-alala, Ma’am, mas maganda ka do’n.” Biglang sabi ni Diaz ng makitang natigilan siya.

Pinaningkitan niya si Diaz. “Kayo talagang mga Pulis, dudulas ng dila niyo no? Lahat kaming babae, magaganda. Lahat kami, may korona.” She tsked. “May jowa na kayong dalawa?”

Sabay na tumango si Suarez at Diaz.

“Ilan ang jowa niyo?” Sunod na tanong ni Eliza.

Sabay na natawa ang dalawa.

Napailing siya. “Mga gago. Mabaog sana kayong dalawa.”

“Huwag naman, Ma’am.” Kaagad na sabi ni Diaz.

Natawa naman si Suarez. “Palabiro pala kayo, Ma’am.”

Sumama ang mukha ni Eliza. “Pero hindi ako nagbibiro. Mabaog sana kayo kapag niloko niyo mga jowa niyo. Sumpa ko ’yan.” Aniya saka ngisi. “Sige, pasok na ako. Ingat kayo rito sa labas.”

“Yes, Ma’am.” Sabay na sabi ng dalawa na ikinangiti niya.

Masyadong seryoso ang mga ito sa pagbabantay sa kaniya.

Nang makapasok sa condo, nagluto siya ng tanghalian saka pinakain ang dalawang bantay niya kahit panay ang tanggi ng mga ito.

Pagkatapos nilang kumaing tatlo, nagligpit siya ng pinagkainan at bumalik ulit ang dalawa sa pagbabantay saka nagpahinga sa kuwarto niya.

Eliza fell asleep without knowing it and when she woke up, it was already past eight PM.

Kaagad siyang bumangon saka lumabas ng kuwarto para magluto ng hapunan pero ng makapasok siya sa kusina niya ay natigilan siya sa paglalakad at natulos siya sa kinatatayuan.

It was Khairro. On her kitchen. Cooking.

“A-anong ginagawa mo rito?” Nagtatakang tanong niya sa binata.

Nilingon siya ni Khairro ng marinig ang boses niya. “Oh, hey.”

She frowned. “Don’t hey me.” Ihinakbanb niya ang mga paa palapit sa binata. “Anong ginagawa mo rito?”

“Cooking.”

“Yeah. I can see that.” Sarkastikong sabi ni Eliza. “Anong ginagawa mo rito?”

Tinuro ni Khairro ang backpack na nasa breakfast table niya. “I’ll be staying here.”

She blinked at Khairro in surprise. “Say, what?”

“I’ll be staying here.” Khairro said with a shrugged after finishing what he was cooking, then he glanced at her. “Ayaw mo sa condo ko, fine with me. Ako nalang ang lilipat sa condo mo.” He have her a cheeky smile. “Aren’t I smart?”

Gritting her teeth, she ran to Khairro and jumped on his back, wrapped her legs around Khairro’s hips and locked it while her arms where encircled on his neck.

Then she started shaking Khairro and messing his hair. “Kaya naman pala pumayag kang pangit ka sa gusto ko. Pangit ka talaga! Wala kang abs. Ayoko sayo. I hate you! Hindi ka sexy! Pangit ka! Pangit!”

Khairro who was trying to balance himself to not fall because of Eliza’s weight, held into the breakfast table.

“Eli, stop it!” That was the first time Khairro raised his voice on Eliza. “Matutumba tayo, ano ba!”

Kaagad namang tumigil si Eli pero hindi pa rin nagbabago ang posisyon nilang dalawa. “Hindi naman kita sinaktan, ah.”

Khairro looked back at her over his shoulder and he looked pissed. “If I fall, you’ll get hurt. You want me to go crazy worrying over you?!” He snapped.

Natahimik si Eliza saka ipinatong ang baba sa balikat ni Khairro. “Sorry.”

“Get off.” Khairro’s tone was so authorative that it made Eliza complied immediately. “Don’t scare me like that again.”

Nagbaba ng tingin si Eliza ng nakatayo na siya sa sahig. “You mad?”

Khairro sighed before crouching in front of Eliza, his back on her. “Come on. I’ll piggyback you in a safe way.”

Eliza got excited at the thought of someone piggybacking her that she immediately hopped on Khairro’s back and wrapped her legs on his hips and arms on his neck.

“Yehaw!” Sigaw ni Eliza na parang batang naglalaro.

“Turtle, it’s called piggyback for a reason.” Ani Khairro habang naglalakad-lakad palibot sa condo ni Eliza.

Eliza rested her chin on Khairro’s shoulder and pinched his cheek. “Sinong nagbigay sayo ng karapatan na tawagin ang pagong?”

“Me.” Sagot ni Khairro na parang nagmamalaki ka. “You’re a turtle and that’s a fact especially when you’re inside a comforter, and you’re also cheeky, so I’m calling you cheeky turtle from now on.”

Eliza just tsked and carefully caressed Khairro’s gunshot grazed on his shoulder. “Is your wound okay now?”

“Kinda.”

“Bababa na ako.” Ani Eliza na gusto nang umalis sa pagkaka-piggyback ni Khairro rito. “Baka mabinat ka at bumukas ulit ang sugat mo.”

“It’s okay.” Hindi siya hinayaan ni Khairro na makababa. “So … can I stay here?”

Eliza pouted. “Alang naman palayasin kita e nandito ka na. Saka nanatili ako sa bahay mo ng ilang araw, kailangan kong bumawi. Pero isa lang ang kuwarto ko rito at, hindi kasing lapad ng kama mo ang kama ko kaya sa sahig ka matutulog.”

“Can’t we sleep on the same bed?” Khairro asked while roaming around her condo while piggybacking her.

“Maliit nga diba?” She playfully flicked Khairro’s ear. “Masikip ’yon, hindi ako makakahinga. And knowing you, aakitin mo ako tapos syempre, dahil marupok ako, hindi ako tatanggi at dahil do’n, tiyak na manganganib ang puri ko.”

Khairro smiled. “That only means one thing … you like me now.”

Yes, I do. Pero hindi ako aamin. Mangangnib ang puri ko at malaki ang posibilidad na mamaalam ako sa puri ko . “Kailangan ko talaga ng kadena…”

“What?”

“Nothing.” Mabilis niyang sabi saka humigpit ang yakap niya sa leeg ni Khairro na palakad-lakad pa rin sa condo niya habang pini-piggyback siya nito.

“Just tell me the truth.” Ani Khairro kapagkuwan. “Forget about our deal, I’m not going to have my way with you just because I won. I know you like me, just be honest with me.”

“No!” Eliza pouted. “A deal is a deal.”

“If you insist.” Ani Khairro saka tumigil sa paglalakad ang nilingon siya. “I’ll be gentle then.”

Namilog ang mga mata ni Eliza. “G-gentle? T-teka,” nauutal siya, “h-hindi ko pa naman sinasabi na gusto kita, ah!”

Khairro chuckled. “Hindi mo ‘pa’ sinasabi, ibig sabihin, ayaw mo lang sabihin sakin na gusto mo ako. That’s okay.” He smiled. “I can wait—”

“No!” Pilit siyang bumaba sa pagpi-piggyback nito sa kaniya. “No! No! I don’t like you.”

Khairro just faced her with a satisfied and triumphant smile. “I believe you’re lying.”

“I am not!” Eliza hissed.

Khairro shrugged. “If you say so.”

Nameywang siya. “Bakit parang hindi ka naniniwala sakin? Hindi mo ba nakikita na seryoso ako?”

“Hmm-mm.”

Nagpapadyak siya ng paa. “Pangit!”

Khairro just laughed and started walking to the kitchen. “Come on, let’s eat dinner.”

Mahaba ang nguso at pabulong-bulong si Eliza habang naglalakad siya sa likuran ni Khairro. “Anong ‘I’ll be gentle’? Scam ’yon, Eliza.” Bulong niya sa sarili. “Scam!”

Nilingon ni Khairro si Eliza, “what are you mumbling about?”

“Nothing…” Eliza said while still pouting.

Napailing si Khairro at basta nalang binuhat si Eliza na ikinahiyaw ng huli saka dinala sa hapag-kainan at pina-upo sa upuan. “There. Sit and relax. I’m going to spoil you from now on.”

“At bakit mo naman ako i-i-spoil?” Mahaba nag nguso na tanong ni Eliza sa binata.

Ngumiti si Khairro. “Because I like you and I want you to be happy. So, let me spoil you, okay?”

Hindi umimik si Eliza. She’s actually curious how Khairro Sanford spoils the women he liked.

“Ilan na ang naging girlfriend mo, Pangit?” Tanong ni Eliza kay Khairro ng naghahapunan na sila.

“Hmm…” umaktong nag-iisip si Khairro na tumigil pa sa pagkain, “Medyo marami na rin.”

“Ilan nga?” May diin niyang tanong.

“Three I think.”

That surprised Eliza. “Tatlo lang?”

“Tatlong seryoso.”

“Ano ba ang seryoso sayo?” Eliza asked in curiosity.

“Two months in relationship — oh, no, I think the longest relationship I had was three.”

Napatanga si Eliza sa binata. “At least the longest for me was six months.”

“Yeah, I’m a dick.” Khairro said dismissively.

“Well, not necessarily.” Ani Eliza na ikinagulat at ikinatitig ni Khairro sa dalaga. “I mean, if you’re not happy and you think that person can’t make you happy, it’s okay to end it rather than drag it long ’til it becomes messy. Umabot lang naman ako ng anim na buwan kasi gusto kong mangalahati sa warranty timeframe para walang pagsisisi.”

“Warranty?” Gagad ni Khairro.

“Yep.” Eliza explained. “For me, the first to twelve months of relationship is like a warranty period. In those months, you’ll get to know your partners attitude, inside and out and in that whole year, you get to decide whether you want to keep him or her or break up with him or her.”

“Like a store warranty?” Khairro asked in surprised.

“Yeah.” Eliza nodded and explained. “It’s like a store warranty. Instead of money, you’re buying the person with attention, love, time and effort. Of course, if the relationship didn’t work in the said warranty timeframe, then end it. It’s like a trial period. Naniniwala ako na lahat ng bagay, dapat munang gamitin para malaman mo kung para sayo ba o hindi.”

Khairro was stunned at Eliza’s view to relationship. “May … tumagal ka na bang karelasyon?”

Ilang segundong natahimik si Eliza bago sumagot. “My last relationship.”

“The tenth ex?”

She nodded. “A year and two weeks.”

“So he passed the warranty period?” Khairro was getting jealous but trying to control it.

“Kinda.”

“And you two just broke up because he died?”

Eliza didn’t respond. Napapansin ni Khairro, pagdating sa pang-sampung ex nito, hindi si Eliza palakuwento.

Something happened between the two. He’s sure of that.

“Do you still love him?” Khairro asked.

Umiling si Eliza. “How could I love a wolf who’s hiding in a sheep’s clothing?”

That made Khairro stilled. “Did he … do something to you?”

Natahimik ulit si Eliza kaya hindi na nagpumilit si Khairro sa tanong niya. 

Khairro cleared his throat, trying to clear the air around them. “I’m confident that I’ll pass the warranty period. Just give me a chance.”

Tumingin si Eliza kay Khairro. “I told you to stop. What do you want from me? Sex?”

Khairro’s face became cold. “Don’t belittle my feelings for you, Eli.”

“Then what?” Eliza asked in frustration. “What do you want from me when clearly, I got nothing good for you.”

“I want you.” Sagot ni Khairro habang nakatitig sa kaniya. “I want all of you. I want your attention, your time, your affection, your effort, your crazy antics, your cusses, your cute cheeky turtle moments and everything that has something to do with you. I want everything that you can offer, good or bad. I want it. I want you.”

Eliza was frozen on her seat, unmoving and thinking deeply. Then few seconds later, she spoke. “You’re just curious to know what it’s like to be with me because my presence is new to your life. Tulad sa mga ex mo, pagkalipas ng ilang buwan, magsasawa ka rin sakin. Pero, sige,” tumingin si Eliza kay Khairro, “I will feed your curiosity. Tingnan natin kung tatagal ang relasyon natin ng tatlong buwan. Titigilan mo rin ako na hindi kita kailangang pilitin. Nasisiguro kong ikaw mismo ang iiwas sakin.”

Khairro pressed his lips together before answering her, “and i’m telling you again, Eli, don’t belittle my feelings for you.”

Eliza just shrugged. “We’ll see.”

Tuluyan nang tumigil sa pagkain si Khairro at nakatutok ang atensiyon nito kay Eliza. “So … tayo na?”

Eliza stopped eating and glanced at Khairro. “Yeah.”

“That’s it?” Khairro looked unsatisfied.

Sarkastikong sumagot si Eliza. “E anong gusto mo? Magpa-party ako tapos may live band para lang sabihin sayo na tayo na? O kaya naman candlelight dinner with two na parang sa mga pelikula?” Eliza shivered. “Cringe.” She shivered again. “You want this fragile relationship of ours to work? Don’t do those shit. Siguro sweet ’yon sa ibang babae, pero sakin hindi.”

Kharro didn’t know what to say. He’s happy at the same time a little bit disappointed.

He’s happy that Eliza finally gave him a chance, and disappointment because that was the coldest ‘putting a label conversation’ in his life.

“So I’m your boyfriend now?” Paninigirado ni Khairro na hindi pa rin makapaniwala hanggang sa mga sandaling ’yon.

“Yeah.” Eliza answered with a shrugged and then sarcastically smiled at him. “Disappointed, yet?”

Sa tanong na ’yon ng dalaga, doon niya naintindihan ang rason kung bakit basta nalang itong pumayag na maging sila.

Eliza wanted him to be disappointed so he’ll stop pursuing her. That’s it. That’s what Eliza wanted.

Too bad. I’m not that shallow.

“Okay.” Matiim niyang tinitigan ang dalaga na nakatingin din sa kaniya. “You’re on, babe. I’m gonna woo the daylight out of you, so get ready.”

Napalunok si Eliza saka pasimpleng ibinalik sa pagkain ang atensiyon para maitago ang biglang pagbilis ng tibok ng puso niya.

Hindi ito sakit sa puso. Sigurado akong karupukan itong tumitibok-tibok sa dibdib ko.

Palihim na nailing si Eliza. Kung hindi ba naman siya gaga, basta nalang siyang nagdesisyon na maging sila ng pabigla-bigla.

Kaya naman tahimik lang siya habang kumakain silang dalawa. Pagkatapos ay si Khairro ang nagligpit ng pinagkainan nila at siya naman ay inihanda ang hihigaan nito sa sahig ng kuwarto niya, sa tabi ng kama niya.

Akala niya mamimilit si Khairro na tumabi sa kaniya, pero hindi ’yon ginawa ng binata. Umakto pa nga itong parang walang nagbabo sa kanila, parang normal lang — parang hindi sila.

Eliza should feel happy about it, but she’s feeling the contrary.

Gustong sapakin ni Eliza ang sarili pero dahil mahal niya ang sarili niya, sinisi nalang niya ang sarili.

Self, isa kang hunghang. Bantayan mo nalang ang puri mo.

Eliza just watched as Khairro stepped out from the bathroom, then he immediately went to his bed on the floor, told her ‘good night’ and that’s it.

Natigilan si Eliza sa naiisip. Anong that’s it? Anong gusto mo, self, tuhugin ka niya?

Eliza actually blushed at what she was thinking. Shit! Ang bastos ko talaga. Anong nangyari sa innocent self ko?

Eliza glared at Khairro’s back. Dahil sa lalaking ’to, hindi lang siya basta nagiging marupok, nawawala rin ang kainosentehan niya.

Hindi naman siguro mapapalaban ang puri ko kay Pangit, no? Binabantayan naman ’yon ng mahabaging maykapal.

Napabuntong-hininga siya saka mas tiningnan ng masama si Khairro.

He didn’t even say anything to me. Like, hello, girlfriend here!

Eliza pouted and she couldn’t take it anymore. “Pangit? Gising ka pa?”

“Yeah…”

“Bakit hindi mo ako pinapansin?”

“I’m tired. I want to sleep.” Ani Khairro.

Nalukot ang mukha ni Eliza. “Iniiwasan mo ba ako?”

Hindi ito umimik na mas ikinasama ng mukha niya. Ang ginawa niya, itinapon niya rito ang comforter niya saka bumaba siya sa higaan nito at pinagkikiliti ang binata.

“Bakit mo ako iniiwasan, huh?” Tanong niya habang kinikiliti ito sa loob ng comforter. “You’re so mean to your girlfriend—”

“Eli, stop it!”

“No! You’re so mean to me.” Patuloy pa rin sa pagkiliti rito. “I’m your girlfriend you know — I mean, it’s just been hours, but still—”

“Eli! Stop tickling me!” Khairro hissed while trying to trapped her hands on his hold.

“No. I won’t—”

Eliza swallowed her words when Khairro seized her hands and in a blink of an eye after he moved, she was beneath him and he was pinning her down, their faces were so closed that she could smell Khairro’s minty breath.

“What are you—”

“Babe, I respect you and all, but I’m hard as fuck. Let me be for tonight.” May diin ang bawat salitang binitawan ni Khairro.

Napalunok si Eli ng maramdaman sa hita niya ang matigas nitong etits. 

That was the second time that she felt it! Khairro’s etits! Holy shit!

“Go back to your bed.” Khairro’s voice was so low that it sounded like a whisper.

Kaagad namang kumawala si Eliza sa hawak ni Khairro sa pulsuhan niya saka kinuha ang comforter na ibinato niya kay Khairro saka ipinulupot iyon sa sarili bago siya nahiga ulit sa kama niya.

Wrapped in comforter now, feeling her comfort zone, she blushed and bit her lip when she remembered what she thought of when Khairro said he’s hard and felt his friend down there.

For a split second there, she thought it was okay if Khairro wanted to do some slight

make out make out lang — in short, Momol. Buti nalang nahimasmasan siya.

Inabot ni Eliza ang cellphone sa bedside table at habang balot na balot ang buong katawan niya ng comforter ay binuksan niya ang app sa cellphone para mag online shop.

She immediately typed ‘Female chastity belt’ on the search bar, and like magic, lots of chastity belt with different color and design popped up.

She should get one of these. Yes. Yes, I should.

With that thought, she tapped ‘buy now’.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 10

ELIZA WAS finally back at work. So far, so good. Nothing dangerous happened and she still had her bodyguard, but they’re not the two Police Officers — her bodyguard now was personally hired by Khairro from a private security company.

Her bodyguard, Raizen, was a good looking man. He was hot and gorgeous but he seldom speaks. Pangit must be very confident that she wouldn’t look at another man.

Well, that’s what she thought until she received some of Khairro’s text message. She could still remember his message to her.

’ Don’t look at him. Don’t even talk to him. I have no choice but to hire him. He’s good and I trust him. He can protect you while I’m at work, but don’t show him your cute and vulnerable side. That’s for your boyfriend only.’

Napailing nalang siya ng maalala ang text ni Khairro. Hindi niya akalaing seloso pa la ang isang Khairro Sanford. Good thing he doesn’t talk about being jealous with her exes now. Mukhang nahimasmasan na ito.

Though, she understood where his insecurities were coming from. Their relationship was new and it was still fragile. Prone to misunderstanding and wrong assumptions.

Pero hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala na jowa ko na ngayon ang crush ko lang noon na binasted ako. Gago! Naiinis na naman siya kapag naaalala niya na binasted siya ng pangit na ’yon.

Bumuntong-hininga siya saka sumandal siya sa likod ng upuan niya sa opisina. Napatitig siya sa kisame habang nag-iisip. Gusto niyang bisitahin si Matamis na Lunes at ang Kuya niya pero baka maka-isturbo siya sa dalawa. Bagong kasal pa naman ang dalawang ’yon.

Huwag na nga lang.

Natigilan siya sa pag-iisip ng tumunog ang cellphone niya.

From: Pangit 💔

‘Anong oras ka uuwi?’

Eliza replied. ’ Don’t know. Mag-o-overtime ako. Maybe 10 or 11 PM.’

Nang ma-send niya iyon, kaagad siyang nag-text ulit kay Khairro.

‘Don’t think of coming here to my workplace and waiting for me. Umuwi ka na kaagad. Kaya ko ang sarili ko saka may bodyguard naman ako.’

From: Pangit 💔

‘Okay. Sure.’

Natigilan si Eliza sa reply ni Khairro. That was fast, that means Pangit was planning something.

To: Pangit 💔

’At anong binabalak mo? 🤨 ’

From: Pangit 💔

‘😘’

Yep. He’s planning something. Ano naman kaya ’yon? She hoped it’s nothing cringe.

Inilapag ni Eliza ang cellphone sa mesa saka bumalik sa pagta-trabaho. She was busy ’ fixing ’ her boss’ schedule then after that, she segregated the papers that needed her boss’ signature and the papers that needs to be approved. Eliza even read the monthly reports sent by the sales department so she could relay it to her boss.

Ilang taon na rin siyang sekretarya ng boss niya kaya alam na niya kung anong kailangan niya gawin at kung anong kailangan ng boss niya pagdating sa trabaho nito.

Eliza wanted to finished early so she focused all her attention on her work ’til she heard message tones coming from her bodyguard’s phone.

Nag-uusisang tumingin siya kay Raizen at kaagad nitong napansin ’yon.

Raizen silenced his phone and said. “It’s your boyfriend. He’s obsessing over your safety. Again.”

Napailing nalang siya saka pinakita niya ang panggitnang daliri. “Text him this. Tell him it’s from me.”

Pigil ang ngiting na tumango ang bodyguard niya saka bumalik naman siya sa pagta-trabaho.

Before 10 PM hits, Eliza was already done and ready to go home. With her bodyguard protecting her, they left the building and went home using her car.

Nang makarating siya sa condo niya, hinatid lang siya ng bodyguard niya sa pintuan saka hinintay na makapasok siya.

She opened her condo with her keys since she’s not used to knocking because she had been living alone for years now.

“Thanks, Raizen.” Aniya sa bodyguard. “Take care on your way home.”

“Yes, Ma’am.” Anang lalaki saka umalis na ng makapasok siya sa loob ng condo niya.

Kaagad na pinalibot ni Eliza ang tingin baka may ginawang kababalaghan si Pangit. She was relieved when she didn’t see any cringe shit like dinner for two with candlelight. Thank God .

Instead, she saw Pangit on the couch, watching T.V.

“Hey, turtle babe.” Anito habang nakatutok pa rin ang mata sa pinapanood nitong crime documentary.

Eliza actually stilled. He greeted her like he had been doing it for years!

“Hey.” Balik niyang bati rito saka naglakad palapit dito saka umupo sa hita nito at humilig siya sa dibdib.

Eliza didn’t even question herself what she was doing. Kung anong klaseng karupukan na naman itong ginagawa niya. She was tired and she felt like sitting on her boyfriends lap to feel better — well, she’s hoping she’ll feel better.

“Tired?” Tanong ni Khairro habang hinahaplos ang buhok niya.

“Hmm.” Eliza yawned. “Ang dami ko pang trabaho sa lunes.”

Hinalikan siya ng binata sa nuo. “I cooked you dinner. Want to eat?”

Umiling siya. “Wala akong gana. Gusto ko lang na matulog.”

“But you have to eat.” Malambing ang boses ni Khairro. “Gusto mo subuan kita?”

Umiling si Eliza. “Kumain na ako kanina sa opisina. Puwede bang bukas ko nalang kainin ang luto mo? I’m tired.”

“Okay.”

Eliza continued resting on Khairro’s chest ’til she fell asleep and when Khairro felt Eliza’s body relaxed, he looked down at her to check.

Yep. She’s asleep.

Pinakatitigan niya ang maamong mukha ng dalaga. It’s been days since they became a couple and the only thing that changed was their skin-ship. Hindi na siya iniiwasan ni Eliza. Like tonight, she was the one who sat on his lap, that wouldn’t have happened before.

Was she like this to her exes? Iyon ang tanong sa isip niya na ayaw mawala. He wanted to be a good boyfriend and he doesn’t want to caused unnecessary drama between them but he was jealous. He felt possessive of Eliza. He wanted her to be his and his alone, but he knew it’s not possible especially because Eliza was a confident and independent woman.

If he became possessive and if she felt like he’s controlling her, she’ll immediately stop this relationship.

I wonder how long can I stop myself from feeling possessive over her?

Khairro sighed and carefully carried Eliza to her bed, covered her with comforter and changed her while she was under the cover. After that, he kissed her forehead good night and left the room.

Khairro decided to sleep on the couch. Hindi niya kakayaning matulog sa kuwarto ni Eliza. Her room smells just like her, it’s not good for his sanity. Kaya naman napagdesisyunan niyang matulog nalang sa salas.

Khairro closed the TV and went to lay on the couch. He was staring at the ceiling when his phone rang. Inabot niya ang cellphone na nasa center table saka tiningnan kung sino ang tumatawag.

Mandurugas calling …

Sinagot niya ang tawag ni Shun. “Buhay ka pa pala?”

Shun chuckled. “Now, now, don’t be so dramatic. I already have enough with that fucking spaniard.”

Khairro tsked. “What do you want?”

“I can’t give you what you want.” Ani Shun. “Knight, that motherfucker, will be even more dramatic than before if he finds out I helped you so I’m stepping away from the hot zone. But because of the payment that we talked about, I’ll give you something to start with.”

“Okay.” Ani Khairro. “Give me something…”

“The name is Art and surname is Rhussel. Look into him and you’ll find what you’re looking for.”

Kumuyom ang kamao niya. “Thanks.”

“Yeah, yeah. Fuck you.”

Napailing nalang si Khairro saka pinatay ang tawag at napatitig ulit sa kisame.

Art Rhussel. Who was he to Eliza?

Instead of snooping around, Khairro wanted to asked Eliza herself, but would she even answer him?

Khairro sighed and closed his eyes to sleep. I should get this over with. Yeah. He should.

“IT’S WEEKEND. IT’S WEEKEND.” Eliza was singing to herself while stepping out from her room. She’s always happy when its weekend because no work, just lounging around, and she’ll be alone in her condo— she stilled and her thoughts stopped when she saw Khairro tidying up her living room.

Oo nga pala … may jowa na ako. I’m not alone anymore.

“Morning, Pangit.” Aniya saka dinaanan lang ito patungong kusina. Gusto niya ng kape.

“Morning, turtle.” Khairro greeted her back.

She showed her middle finger at him for calling her turtle. “Nag-agahan ka na?”

“Nope, but I reheated the food I made last night.”

Napatigil siya sa paglalakad saka patakbong bumalik kay Khairro saka basta nalang siyang sumampa sa likod nito sabay yakap sa leeg nito. “Thank you!”

Natatawang humarap sa kaniya si Khairro saka binuhat siya at ito na ang nagdala sa kaniya sa kusina at pina-upo siya sa hapag-kainan.

Napangiti nalang si Eliza. Khairro was spoiling her again and she likes this side of Khairro. Who doesn’t want a boyfriend who spoils you every day?

“Turtle, babe,” tawag sa kaniya ni Khairro habang inihahanda nito ang agahan nila. “You want a heavy breakfast?”

“Nope.” Umiling pa si Eliza. “It’s weekend. I’ll just be bumming around.”

“Got it.”

Napangiti si Eliza ng makitang hindi nga marami ang pagkain sa pinggan niya. It was enough to be considered a light breakfast for her which was still a lot for some people.

Tiningnan niya si Khairro na umupo sa kaharap niyang upuan. “Kilalang-kilala mo na ako, ah.”

“Of course. Ikaw lang naman ang hindi ako kilala.” May pagtatampo sa boses ni Khairro na ikinatawa ni Eliza.

“You sulking?”

“Yeah. So what?”

Tumawa ulit si Eliza saka nagtanong, “paano ka nakakasiguro na wala akong alam tungkol sayo? Na hindi kita kilala?”

Napatigil sa pagkagat ng sandwich si Khairro saka tumingin sa kaniya. “How well do you know me?”

Eliza smirked. “You’ll be shock to know what I know.”

Natigilan si Khairro. “How did you know me? I mean, have you been observing too like i’d been doing these days?”

“Nope.” Umiling si Eliza saka sumimsim ng kape. “I just know things, but I’m not a stalker.”

Tumaas ang dalawang kilay ni Khairro saka mahina itong natawa. “Hmm-mm.”

Tiningnan niya ng masama si Khairro. “Bakit parang hindi ka naniniwala?”

“You look and sounded so defensive.”

Napipilan siya saka nag-iwas ng tingin. “Fine. I was a little … stalker-ish — but that’s before! Bago mo ako binasted. Nang binasted mo ako, nawalan na ako ng amor sayo.”

Napangiti si Khairro na para bang siyang-siya ito sa narinig kaya naman inirapan niya ito.

“So … what do you know about me?” Khairro asked her.

Kaagad siyang sumagot. “Pangit ka, wala kang abs at isa kang malakas na bagyo.”

Pinaningkitan siya nito. “We both know I’m handsome, with abs and yes I’m confident with my looks.”

Umingos si Eliza saka kumagat sa sandwich na iniumang ni Khairro sa bibig niya. “Ipaalala mo nga sakin bakit ako pumayag na maging girlfriend mo?”

“Napipilitan ka lang.” sagot ni Khairro sa malamig na boses na ikinatigil ni Eliza sa pagnguya at napatitig siya sa binata.

Khairro looked lonely making Eliza sighed. She stood up from her seat and hugged Khairro from behind, then she rested her chin on Khairro’s shoulder.

“Pangit, if I’m forcing myself to be with you, I won’t be this happy early in the morning. So stop sulking.”

Khairro’s head turned to faced her. “Gusto mo na ako?”

Ngumiti lang si Eliza na ikinangiti na rin si Khairro saka ikinailing ng ulo nito.

“Fine.” Khairro sighed. “I’ll stop sulking. By the way, is there anything you want to do today other than bum around?”

Umiling si Eliza saka bumalik na sa kinauupuan niya. “Nope. I just want to wrap myself in a comforter and roll on my bed.”

Napailing nalang si Khairro saka pinakagat ulit si Eliza sa sandwich nito.

“You’re really a good cook.” Ani Eliza pagkatapos kumagat sa sanwich ni Khairro. “Paano ka natutong magluto?”

“I asked my family’s chef to teach me.”

Nakurap-kurap siya kay Khairro. “I’m shook right now.”

Khairro just chuckled.

Napailing naman si Eliza. “Just how rich are you?”

Khairro just shrugged and Eliza was used to it. Pangit doesn’t like bragging his wealth. He would bragged his looks, but not his wealth.

“Siya nga pala, sa labas ka ba natulog kagabi?” Kapagkuwan ay tanong ni Eliza lay Khairro.

“Yep.”

“Bakit?”

Khairro glanced at her like the answer was obvious. “You don’t want to talk about it.”

“Oh.” Realization hit her. He’s hard, again? Anong klaseng etits ang halos araw-araw tumitigas?

“Your rooms smells like you, so … it’s better to be safe than be sorry later.” Ani Khairro.

Pasimple siyang napatingin sa binata. He’s really a gentleman even though he likes stealing kisses from her. She remembered her ex boyfriends trying to get into her pants days after they got together, but Khairro was trying to put some distance between them.

He doesn’t even kissed her deeply these days. Siguro iniiwasan nitong madarang sila pareho. His self-control and respect for her felt really good. Maybe that’s why her guard was down these days because she trusted him.

Pero nagtataka siya sa sarili niya. Sa mga ex niya noon na gustong-gustong may mangyari sa kanila e ayaw niya at isa ’yon sa rason kung bakit natu-turn off siya at nakikipaghiwalay. Pero ngayon namang si Khairro mismo ang umiiwas … parang gusto niya?

Sige, self. Landi pa. Yayaman ka niyan.

Napailing siya saka itinuon ang atensiyon sa agahan niya. At habang walang imik sila pareho ni Khairro, malalim ang iniisip niya.

She had secrets and she’s scared of them. Really scared. She doesn’t want to keep it from Khairro because he seems genuine towards her, she knew she should tell him, but words wouldn’t came out from his mouth.

She was scared. Scared of her secret. Scared of what it’ll do to the both of them. Scared that her secret might repeat itself.

Anong gagawin niya kapag naulit ulit ang nakaraan na kinatatakutan niya?

Kung sana may lakas lang siya na itulak palayo si Khairro. Pero sa karupukan niya? Napaka-imposible.

“Ako na ang maghuhugas.” Boluntaryo ni Eliza pagkatapos nilang mag-agahan at hinayaan lang siya ni Khairro.

While washing the dishes, Eliza didn’t know that her order — the chastity belt — at that moment, the courier was talking to Khairro and handing the parcel to him.

Nalaman lang ni Eliza ng makalabas siya ng kusina at inabot yon sa kaniya ni Khairro.

And because she’s an unlucky innocent bitch, she didn’t read the details and content of the parcel and just opened it.

In front of Khairro.

Natulos nalang sa kinatatayuan si Eliza at napamura ng mailabas niya ang item sa loob ng pouch at pareho silang napatitig doon ni Khairro.

“Ay, putang’na!” Mabilis na itinago ni Eliza ang chastity belt sa look ng pang-itaas niya saka mabilis na tumakbo patungo sa kuwarto niya at iniwan niya sa salas ang gulat na gulat na si Khairro.

Kaagad na binalot ni Eliza ang sarili sa comforter saka naka-fetus position na nahiga sa kama habang hawak-hawak pa rin ang chastity belt na binili.

“Holy shit…” nakangiwi siya habang hiyang-hiya sa sarili. May hiya pa pala talaga ako. Akala ko nawala na . “Bakit si Khairro pa … at bakit ang tanga ko para buksan ’yon sa harapan niya?”

Napasabunot si Eliza sa buhok niya saka akmang sisigaw sa frustasyong nararamdaman ng makarinig siya ng papasok na yabag sa kuwarto niya.

Eliza stilled. Shit! Hindi ko na-i-lock ang pinto! Ang tanga-tanga talaga ng pinto! Dinamay pa ako sa katangahan!

“Turtle?” Umupo si Khairro sa gilid ng kama saka pinakatitigan ang kasintahan na binalot na naman ang sarili sa comforter. “Turtle babe, come on, come out. I’ll pretend I didn’t see it—”

“No! You saw it!” Eliza hissed inside the comforter. “You definitely saw it!”

“So? What’s the fuss?” Khairro was trying to coaxed Eliza into coming out from her comforter. “It’s okay. I don’t mind.”

Eliza pushed herself to sit on the bed, still wrapped in comforter, then like a real turtle, her head came out from her shell comforter. “You don’t mind? Really?”

Khairro nodded.

“Hindi ka nagsisinungaling sakin?”

“Nope.”

“You don’t mind that I bought a chastity belt?”

Khairro acted like he wasn’t surprised. So, that’s what it was. Ang totoo niyan, hindi niya iyon masyadong nakita dahil mabilis na itinago iyon ni Eliza.

“Why did you buy that anyway?” Tanong ni Khairro habang inaalis ang pagkakabalot ng comforter sa ulo nito. “It’s not like I’m going to touch you without your permission. You don’t need that.”

Nag-iwas ng tingin si Eliza. “Mali ka, kailangan ko talaga to. Alam ko naman na hindi mo ako gagapangin ng wala ang go signal ko. You see, hindi ito para sayo. Para sakin ’to.”

Khairro blinked at Eliza. “So … you’re trying to protect yourself from … yourself?”

Eliza nodded while looking away.

Mahinang natawa at napailing nalang si Khairro saka masuyong niyakap ang dalaga na balot pa rin ng comforter. “Am I scaring you, Turtle babe?”

Umiling si Eliza. “Mas natatakot ako sa sarili ko.”

Hinaplos ni Khairro ang buhok ni Eliza. “Care to tell me?”

Kumawala sa yakap niya si Eliza sa nagbaba ng tingin. “Masyadong mahalaga sakin ang puri ko. Maharot lang talaga ako minsan, pero hindi naman masyado, di’ba?”

Khairro smiled at her before placing a kiss on her forehead. “That’s why I’m controlling myself even though it’s hard. I’m not going to ask that of you.”

She frowned at him. “How about your exes?”

Hindi kaagad nakasagot si Khairro. Pakiramdam kasi siya mali na basta nalang niya ipagsabi kahit pa kay Eliza ang mga bagay na may kinalaman sa kamunduhan na pinaggagawa niya sa mga dati niyang nakarelasyon.

“I’m sorry, Turtle babe,” inayos niya ang magulo nitong buhok, “I don’t want to keep anything from you, especially when it comes to my exes, but out of respect for them, let’s not talk about sexual stuff that concerns them, please? Other than that, you can ask me anything, I’ll answer you right away.”

Napatitig si Eliza kay Khairro. Instead of feeling jealous that he’s somehow protecting his exes, Eliza actually finds it sweet because Khairro just doesn’t respect her and her alone, but also all of her kind. He respect every woman. No biases just because they’re together.

That’s actually nice.

Inalis ni Eliza ang comforter saka tinapik ang uluhan ng kama. “Come here.” Aniya kay Khairro.

Tumalima naman si Khairro at naupo sa uluhan ng kama niya. He had this questioning look on his face ’til Eliza leaned in on his chest and rested her body against his.

Khairro immediately wrapped his arms around her.

“We’re both full and has nothing to do,” Eliza trailed, “why don’t we talk to get to know each other more — or better yet, let’s play the game ‘Twenty Question’. One simple rule. One cannot lie.”

Khairro kissed Eliza’s temple. “Sounds great to me. Unlike someone here,” he playfully pinched Eliza’s cheek, “I’m not an expert when it comes to Eliza Velasquez.”

Eliza chuckled. “Mahina ka pala, eh. Talo pa kita.”

“I’m not a stalker.” Khairro said teasingly.

Kaagad na sinuntok ni Eliza ang hita ni Khairro. “I’m not a stalker too!”

Khairro just chuckled earning a glare from Eliza.

Eliza tsked. “Sige na. Laro na tayo ng twenty question. Ako ang mauuna magtanong.”

“Okay. Hit me.”

Eliza moved from leaning on Khairro’s chest to lying in bed while half of her body was being cradled by Khairro’s strong set of arms. Now, they’re facing each other, unlike earlier.

“My first question …” Eliza knew every basic thing about Khairro — perks of knowing a lot of things, but not a stalker — so she had to ask a different kind of question, “What is your favorite thing about yourself?”

It didn’t even took a couple of seconds for Khairro to answer. It was quick. “My handsomeness.”

Sinimangutan niya ito. “Booo!”

Khairro laughed. “What? It’s true.”

Eliza tsked.

Khairro kissed Eliza’s forehead. “My turn, hmm, what do you like about me?”

Kaagad na nalukot ang mukha ni Eliza. “That’s a trick question!”

Khairro grinned and looked at Eliza knowingly. “You can’t lie, Turtle babe.”

Sumimangot si Eliza. “You’re so mean.”

Khairro just grinned.

Sighing and pouting, Eliza answered. “I like that you respect me even though I’m crazy and toxic most of the time. I like that you didn’t take advantage of me when I was vulnerable. I like that you can endure and keep up with my crazy antics. And I like that you’re a Police Officer.”

“You have a thing for Police Officers?”

Umiling si Eliza saka nag-iwas ng tingin, trying not to show her flushed cheeks. “Just you. In uniform.”

Khairro chuckled while rubbing Eliza’s cheek with the tip of his finger. “You’re so cute, turtle.”

Inirapan lang ni Eliza si Khairro saka ito naman ang nagtanong. “Okay. My turn.” She looked at Khairro, “sa mga nakarelasyon mo, maliban sakin, ano ang paborito mong memorya sa kanila?”

“Hmm …” Malalim na nag-isip si Khairro bago sumagot. “Honestly, I can’t think of anything. I was serious with them, meaning no fooling around while we’re together, but I’m not emotionally invested like I am with you now. So … I really can’t think of anything.”

Humaba ang nguso ni Eliza. “Fine. Kahit ano nalang na may kinalaman sa naka-relasyon mo or malapit do’n. Serious or flings, I don’t mind. I just want to know.”

“Well,” Khairro smiled, he had this faraway look on his face like he was remembering something, “this doesn’t count as relationship, but, someone confessed to me before. Kaga-graduate ko lang yata no’n ng High School. I don’t remember her clearly but she had this thick glasses and her hair was covering half of her face. It was my favorite memory because she sounded so sincere while telling me she likes me and handing me the letter she wrote for me, but she looked really young. I mean, from what I can see, she’s too young for me and I don’t want to take advantage of her youth and affection for me so I rejected her flat out and I haven’t seen her since then—” Napatigil si Khairro sa pagkukuwento ng makitang namalisbis ang luha sa mga mata ni Eliza.

Instantly, he got worried. “You okay, turtle?”

Humihikbing tumango si Eliza. “Yeah. I’m just sweating through my eyes.”

Khairro’s gazed on Eliza softened as he helped her dry her tears, “wala namang nakakaiyak sa kuwento ko, ah.” He softly caressed her cheeks that was now damped with tears, “you cusses a lot, but you’re really a cry baby, turtle.”

Even with tears in her eyes, Eliza smiled at Khairro. “This is a happy tears.”

“Yeah?”

“Uh-huh.”

Khairro smiled and kissed Eliza’s forehead. “Okay. Now, my turn to ask.”

“Okay.”

“What is the one thing that you would like to change about me?”

Eliza frowned at Khairro’s question. “None, I supposed. I mean, you’re annoying and only a 95% gentleman, but if I change one thing about you, it’s not going to be ‘you’ anymore. It’ll be someone else’s.”

Napatitig si Khairro kay Eliza. “Are you trying to make me fall for you?”

“Nope.”

Khairro chuckled. “Okay, okay. Your turn.”

“Hmm … do you sing in the shower?” Tanong ni Eliza.

Khairro locked his gaze on Eliza. “Want to shower with me to know?”

“Pangit!”

Malakas na natawa si Khairro saka pinanggigilan ang pisngi ni Eliza. “Yes, I sing in the shower. But not all the time. Minsan lang. I dance to, you know.”

Si Eliza naman ngayon ang malakas na natawa. “I’m sure you look horrible while dancing.”

Napailing nalang si Khairro, “who’s mean now.”

“Totoo naman, ah!”

“Yeah, yeah.”

“Hmp! Magtanong ka na nga.”

Khairro smiled. “What is the dumbest thing you’ve ever done?”

Pinakita ni Eliza ang chastity belt na tinago niya sa likuran niya. “Buying this, but part of me thinks it was a smart buy.”

Natawa si Khairro saka napailing. “Isukat mo nga. Parang malaki sayo.”

Kaagad na bumangon si Eliza at walang sabi-sabing pumasok ng banyo.

Moments later, Eliza shouted from the bathroom. “The hooorrrroooorr!”

Kaagad na umalis sa kama si Khairro at naglakad patungo sa pintuan ng banyo at tumayo ito sa harapan ng pinto at kumatok. “You okay in there, turtle? What happened?”

“Pangit! It doesn’t fiiiiiit!” Sigaw ni Eliza mula sa loob ng banyo.

Pigil ni Khairro ang matawa. “Can’t you adjust the belt?”

“Mayroon, pero hindi pa rin kakasya sakin! Anong gagawin ko ngayon?”

Napailing nalang si Khairro. “Leave it be, I guess. I promise, i’m not going to touch you.”

“Hindi naman ikaw ang problema, eh! Ako! Ako!” Mahaba ang nguso na lumabas ng banyo si Eliza saka tinapon sa basurahan ang chastity belt. “Nakakainis naman eh! Nasira na ang mood ko. Ayoko nang maglaro ng twenty question game.”

Natigilan si Eliza ng masuyo siyang yakapin ni Khairro. Then he rocked their body from side to side then he kissed her forehead. “Feeling better?”

For some reason, Eliza does feel better. “Yeah…”

“Come on.” Pinakawalan siya ni Khairro sa pagkakayakap saka hinawakan nito ang kamay niya at masuyong hinila siya nito palabas ng kuwarto, patungong salas saka binuksan nito ang TV at sabay silang umupo sa mahabang sofa at nanood.

They were just watching, a simple thing to do on a weekend. Eliza does it all the time, but, it somehow felt different with Khairro beside her.

Dahil ba sa wakas ay nalaman din niya ang rason kung bakit binasted siya nito noon? Not only that, her confession was one of his favorite memories.

She was wrong, he hadn’t forgotten her, he just didn’t recognized her.

Malaki rin kasi ang pinagbago niya lalo na nuong nasa College siya kung kailan nag-umpisa siyang magsuot ng contact lens.

Pasimpleng sinulyapan ni Eliza si Khairro na tutok ang atensiyon sa pinapanood.

Eliza felt really lucky at that moment to have Khairro beside her. He liked her. After all these years of unknowingly with strong denial that she was carrying a torch for Khairro, he finally looked at her and return her affection.

It was not one-sided anymore.

She wanted to tell him at that moment that she liked him too, but she couldn’t voice it out. Words still wouldn’t came out from her mouth. She was still scared … scared of the outcome of this fragile relationship.

But … maybe I could still change the outcome. Maybe, If I fight hard enough, I won’t hurt Khairro. Maybe because it’s Khairro, things will be different. Maybe … he won’t end up like Art.

Maybe …

Before Eliza could think clearly, her body already moved and she was now straddling Khairro’s hips and her arms were encircling around his neck.

“Eli…”

Eliza stared straight into Khairro’s surprised eyes. “Pangit … I’m giving you my consent to touch me, “ she smiled, “don’t hold back and don’t reject me this time, because I will really hate you.”

Khairro was just staring at her, dumbfounded that she just gave him the green light to touch her — to not hold back.

“Eli, are you su—”

“If you ask me if I’m sure, I’m going to bash your head on the center table.” Eliza said with a ‘don’t challenge me’ smile.

“Ayoko lang na magsisi ka pagkatapos.” Ani Khairro.

Eliza just rolled her eyes and she dipped her head and initiated the kiss.

Nakapagdesisyon na ako.

Isusuko ko na ang bataan.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 11

Hi, CCBells. Sorry it took me a while to update. I have to finished the last SC for Je t’aime first because I made a promise that I’ll post it this month and a lot of you are looking forward for it. And now that It’s done, makakapag-focus na ako sa PS22.

And palagi kong nababasa sa comment na naguguluhan kong tapos na ba ang isang chapter o putol lang siya, I’d been telling your guys in my A/N na hanggat hindi niyo ito nakikita “CECELIB | C.C.” hindi pa yan tapos at siguradong naputol lang.

Anyway, happy reading.

CHAPTER 11

KHAIRRO stared intently at Eliza who just pulled away after kissing him deeply. She looked really serious about this. She looked determined, but there’s something bothering him about this. Huminga siya ng malalim saka tumayo mula sa pagkakaupo sa sofa habang karga-karga si Eliza na nakayakap sa kaniya at nakapalibot ang binti nito sa beywang niya.

Nang makapasok si Khairro sa kuwarto, kaagad niyang maingat na ihiniga si Eliza sa kama na kaagad na inalis ang binti sa pagkakayakap sa beywang niya at sinalubong ang titig niya.

“Don’t you dare reject me.” Anang dalaga sa may pagbabantang boses. “Tatamaan ka sakin, Pangit.”

Khairro just smiled and kissed Eliza’s forehead, then his lips trailed down to the bridge of her nose, down to the tip of her nose, then his lips dropped down on her lips cupid’s bow, then he placed a soft kiss on her lips and nibbled her lower lip before his lips dropped to her chin, down to her neck and into her collarbone.

When Khairro’s lips moved down from Eliza’s collarbone, Khairro could see Eliza’s chest, rising and falling heavily like she was heaving.

He looked up at her. “Feeling nervous?”

Kaagad itong umiling pero hindi naniwala si Khairro. He could tell … somehow, he could tell that she was nervous.

“Okay … Here I go … “ Khairro trailed as his lips placed a soft kiss on one of Eliza’s breast that was still covered with her oversized shirt.

It was just a light kiss, but Khairro saw how Eliza’s hand gripped the bedsheet.

Khairro dropped his lips to Eliza’s abdomen, dropping soft kisses on its wake while his hand was caressing her bare thigh.

Eliza was wearing a skimpy short making Khairro’s hand free to roam around and explore.

Eliza’s body started tensing when Khairro’s lips started kissing from her abdomen down to her belly. He knew she was holding her breath, she was anticipating of what he was going to do next so Khairro moved slowly to build her anticipation more … and when she least expect it, he dropped down to the center of her thighs and kiss her womanhood that was still covered with fabric.

Napaigtad si Eliza sa ginawa niya kaya pasimple siyang nag-angat ng tingin para tingnan ang reaksiyon sa mukha nito.

Eliza’s eyes were squeezed shut and she was biting her lips so hard. Her face was also pale with nervousness.

There was desire in her face, she was turned on, he could tell, but, there was more expression on her face that unsettles him.

Khairro pushed himself up again, levelling his face with Eliza’s and then he moved his right hand to massage her womanhood from outside the fabric she was wearing.

Napatigil sa pagkagat ng labi si Eliza at dahan-dahang umawang ang labi nito. Her tensed body was now slowly relaxing so Khairro continued by slipping his hand inside her short, touching her bare.

Eliza hissed and her back arched, still her eyes were squeezed shut.

Dipping his head, Khairro bit Eliza’s hard nipple that was inviting him beneath her oversized shirt. She was not wearing a bra, he could clearly see that her nipples were aroused because it was poking her shirt.

“Khairro …” mahinang daing ni Eliza ng pagalawin niya ang daliri sa ibabaw ng pagkababae nito habang itinataas niya ang damit nito para tuluyang maangkin ng bibig niya ang tuktok ng dibdib nito.

The moment Khairro put Eliza’s nipple inside his mouth, he also moved two of his fingers to rubbed her clït, slowly and teasingly.

Khairro rolled his tongue around Eliza’s taught nipple as his finger on her wetness moved to made her taste a piece of heaven on earth.

His fingers were coated with her wetness as he did a circular motion around her clït, before he would rubbed her clït directly and then softly pinched it.

“Ahh!” It was Eliza’s first loud moan, her cheeks getting flushed.

Khairro repeated what he did, but now he add another finger to tease her entrance, just rubbing and teasing and rubbing ’til her thigh muscles started tightening. That’s when he hastened the movement of his finger.

From rubbing softly to rubbing hard, with pressure just enough to make Eliza moan and tremble, and as he rubbed and played with her clït, his mouth was busy lapping, licking and sucking her breast and his other hand was palming them.

“Uhmm … ahh…” napasabunot si Eliza sa buhok ni Khairro na abala sa pagsipsip sa nasa tuktok ng dibdib niya habang ang mga kamay ng binata ay nasa pagkababae niya at halos lahat ng parte niyon ay basang-basa na at para siyang mababaliw sa ginagawa ng kamay nito.

The rubbing of fingers on her womanhood earlier that set a flame on her body has now became intense that her body was writhing. She was moaning. Her head keeps on turning from side to side and her hands that were gripping the bedsheet was now gripping the edge of her pillow instead.

Umaangat ang puwitan si Eliza sa tuwing sinusubukang ipasok ni Khairro ang isang daliri nito sa loob niya pero hindi tinutuloy. Gusto niya itong sigawan na ipasok nalang, na huwag na siyang tudyuin pero hindi niya mahagilap ang boses niya na abala sa kakadaing at halinghing.

Unknowingly, her one hand gripped Khairro’s hand that was in between her thighs and she encouraged his hand and fingers to move harder, fasted and delve deeper.

And Khairro obliged. His one finger slid inside and Eliza gasped audibly and moaned.

Shit. Ang sarap . Sa isip ni Eliza habang kagat-kagat ulit niya ang pang-ibabang labi. Kusang bumuka ang nga hita niya para sa mga daliri ni Khairro.

Nakapikit si Eliza at para siyang mababaliw sa sarap lalo na nang nag-umpisang maglabas-masok ang daliri ni Khairro sa loob niya at nadadagdagan pa ang kiliti sa katawan dahil sa ginagawa ng bibig at dila ni Khairro sa magkabilang dibdib niya.

Khairro kept on licking, lapping and sucking her nipple, earning moans after moans from her.

So good … this feels so good.

Then her thighs started trembling, the sensation coming from her wetness was too much for her to bear that she was now pushing and stopping Khairro’s hand. “No… no… h-hindi ko na kaya … s-something, s-something’s c-coming, Pangit … I can’t … please, I can’t take it … “

Khairro stopped ravaging her breast and his tongue licked her lips before he whispered in a low sexy voice, “let in come, babe.”

That low sexy voice made Eliza opened her eyes and she locked gaze with Khairro.

And she was enthralled while looking at the desire for her in his eyes.

He looked so hot that she came all over Khairro’s fingers.

Eliza wanted to touched Khairro’s face, she wanted to hold him, but before she could even lift a finger, Khairro moved and settled himself in between her thighs and started placing a soft kiss on her womanhood over the skimpy fabric she was wearing.

“K-Khairro—” bago pa matapos ang sasabihin ni Eliza, naramdaman niyang hinawi ni Khairro ang kakarampot na tela na tumatakip sa pagkababae niya at hinalikan nito mismo ang basa pa niyang pagkababae.

Eliza jolted in surprise and in pleasure when Khairro strated licking and lapping her down there, on her wetness.

She was back to gripping the bedsheet. Naghahalo ang takot, kaba at sarap sa isip niya pero mas nananaig ang sarap sa naibibigay ng labi at dila ni Khairro na sumasamba sa pagkababae niya.

Her mind was in turmoil as her body writhes in pleasure. It was so good. She wanted more, but she was scared. She wanted his tongue to go deeper, but she was starting to see flashbacks of memories she doesn’t want to remember. Eliza wanted Khairro to continue pleasuring her, she liked the sensation he was making her feel, she liked how he was giving his all to satisfy her and she liked that he was rough but at the same time soft with her.

Eliza liked what Khairro was doing to her, but part of her brain was warning her, it was showing unwanted memories of her past that her body just moved on her own — her leg, kicked Khairro, her hand geabbee the comforter and hurriedly cocooned herself inside like it could protect her — and she only realized what she’d done when she started suffocating inside the comforter.

Eliza didn’t want to show her face to Khairro, she doesn’t want to see Khairro’s disappointed face, but she was forced to come out from her comforter to breath properly.

Napipilitang inilabas ni Eliza ang ulo mula sa comforter na mahigpit na nakapalibot sa katawan niya para makahinga ng maayos kapagkuwan ay isa-isang bumagsak ang luha niya ng makitang tumayo si Khairro mula sa pagkakasadlak sa sahig dahil sa pagsipa niya rito at walang imik itong pumasok sa banyo.

I did it … I dit it. I hurt him. I hurt him.

Tears fell from her eyes even harder and she buried her face on her bed.

I hurt him. I hurt him. Oh, God, I hurt him.

Eliza went back to cocooning herself inside the comforter even though she couldn’t breath properly, she stayed inside her comforter where she couldn’t hurt anyone.

In here, I can’t hurt Khairro. He’ll be safer without me.

Eliza bit her trembling lower lip and and her body was frozen when she heard the door to the bathroom opened.

Pinakiramdaman niya ang galaw ni Khairro habang umiiyak pa rin pero tumigil ang pagbagsak ng luha niya ng maramdaman niyang tumigil ang binata sa tabi ng kama at umupo sa gilid niyon.

Then Eliza felt Khairro’s hand outside the comforter, caressing her like he was trying to calm her down.

Gusto niyang lumabas mula sa pinagtataguan para makahingi ng pasensiya pero nagsalita si Khairro.

“Sorry, turtle. Did I scare you?”

Eliza stilled, her eyes swelling in tears again. How could he asked such a thing? Ako ang nanakit sayo, bakit ikaw ang nagso-sorry?! Gusto niyang isigaw ’yon pero walang boses na lumalabas sa bibig niya.

“Naramdaman ko na kanina na may kakaiba sa reaksiyon mo, pero nagpatuloy pa rin ako dahil gusto kong makita kung hanggang saan ang kaya mo. Aren’t I a bad boyfriend?”

Natigilan si Eliza. But I kicked you. I’m the bad girlfriend.

“Sorry, babe.” Ani Khairro, “please, forgive me?”

Eliza couldn’t take Khairro misunderstanding what happened so she forced herself to leave her comforter, sat up and throw herself at Khairro, wrapping her arms around Khairro’s neck.

“Babe—”

“I’m sorry.” Eliza cut Khairro off. “Sobrang natakot at kinabahan lang ako at nawala sa isip ko na ikaw ’yon kaya nasipa kita, pero hindi ko naman sinasadya. Promise. I didn’t mean to hurt you. I swear, I didn’t. I really swear …” Eliza’s voice trailed when Khairro softly embraced her.

“I know, babe, I know.” Hinagod ni Khairro ang likod niya. “Kalimutan mo na ’yon. Hindi naman ako nasaktan. Ayos lang ako.”

Eliza pulled away from Khairro’s embraced to check Khairro. No visible injury. That’s good. But what about internal?

“Mas masakit ba sayo?” Tanong niya sa binata.

Hindi nakatakas ang sa mga mata ni Eliza ang pasimpleng pababa ng tingin ni Khairro sa pagkalalaki nito bago sumagot. “Wala naman. I’m okay.”

I think it’s normal to hurt down there. Eliza though. Nasisiguro akong natigasan siya sa mga ginawa niya sakin. It was an intense momol for goodness’ sake!

Bumaba ang tingin ni Eliza sa pagkalalaki ni Khairro at nang mag-angat siya ng tingin dito, nakatingin ito sa kaniya kaya naman alam niyang nahuli nito ang pagtingin niya sa pagkalalaki nito.

“Ahm … gusto mo bang,” sumulyap siya ulit sa pagkalalaki ni Khairro bago ibinalik ang mga mata kay sa binata, “ahm … gawin ko ang ginawa mo sakin?”

Seryosong umiling si Khairro. “I already took care of it.”

Wala sa sariling napabaling si Eliza sa pinto ng banyo. Kaya ba siya nagbanyo kanina bago ako kinausap? He took care of it?

Eliza looked at Khairro again before looking away. “Ano na … ang gagawin natin ngayon?”

“Tell me why you were scared.” Deretsong sabi ni Khairro na ikinatigil ni Eliza at ikinatingin niya sa binata. “I can easily investigate it and I’ll know about it in no time, but,” Khairro looked into Eliza’s eyes, “I want to hear it from you. Kung ayaw mong malaman ko at kung ayaw mong magtanong ako ulit, sabihin mo sakin ngayon para hindi na ako magtanong ulit.”

Eliza wanted to tell Khairro about it. She wanted to tell him the truth so bad but her mouth wouldn’t open and words doesn’t want to come out from her mouth.

A tear fell from her eyes while she was staring at Khairro. I can’t open my mouth, Pangit. I’m sorry.

Umangat ang kamay ni Khairro para tuyuin ang luha sa pisngi niya saka masuyo siya nitong niyakap. No words were exchanged between them, but Eliza felt comfortable in Khairro’s arms.

“I like your crazy antics,” kapagkuwan ay sabi ni Khairro, “but sometimes, I question myself if your crazy antics is just a mask to cover what’s really inside you.”

Pangit…

“Babe, I hope one day, you wouldn’t have to wear that mask to cover yourself in front of me.”

A tear fell from Eliza’s eyes again while a smile spread on her lips. “That’s sweet, but I’m really crazy, Pangit.”

Khairro chuckled. “That’s good then. I like that side of you.”

“Magsasawa ka rin.”

“I’ll just have to prove you wrong.”

“Uh-huh.”

Khairro smiled and kissed Eliza’s head. “How about we go on a date? I promise, it’s not cringe.”

Mahinang natawa si Eliza saka kumawala sa yakap ni Khairro para tumingin dito. “Ayos lang ba? Baka may magtangka na naman sa buhay ko.”

“Its okay. You’re with me.”

Somehow, Eliza felt secure. “Okay. Saan tayo magdi-date.”

Khairro smiled. “That’s a surprise.”

“Not cringe?” Paniniguro ni Eliza.

Khairro just smiled mysteriously at her, making her frown in nervousness. Nasisiguro niyang may binabalak ang lalaking ’to.

And Eliza was right.

Because a few hours later, in their date, she found herself and Khairro inside a Helicopter getting ready for skydiving.

Definitely not cringe, but … what the fuck?!

“THIS IS YOUR IDEA of a fucking date, Pangit?!” Sigaw ni Eliza kay Khairro habang may inaayos na kung ano sa isinuot nitong gear sa kaniya.

Tumawa lang si Khairro.

“Pangit!”

Khairro chuckled. “Well, it’s not cringe.”

She glared ag Khairro. “Yes! But I’m going to die in return!”

Tumawa si Khairro, “don’t worry. We’re going to do a tandem skydiving. I have a skydiving licence so it’s going to be okay.”

“No! No! I’m going to die, Pangit! That’s super high! Roller coaster at ferris wheel lang ang kaya ko!”

Khairro just smiled at her and continued securing their gear. At wala nang nagawa si Eliza lalo na nang ma-i-ready na ang lahat ni Khairro.

Parang gustong magtago ng puso niya sa likod ng baga niya habang sumisilip siya sa labas ng helicopter.

“Oh my God…” nag sign of the cross si Eliza. “Oh my God…”

Niyakap ni Khairro si Eliza mula sa likuran. “Trust me. Hindi kita ipapahamak.”

“T-talaga?”

“Yeah.” Khairro kissed the side of Eliza’s nape. “While free falling, you can shout your problems and scream your fears. You can do that to your heart’s content. It’ll lighten up your chest. Trust me.”

Natahimik si Eliza. Kaya ba niya ako dinala rito? Para gumaan ang pakiramdam ko?

Eliza sighed. Why is this pangit so sweet?

“Ready?” Tanong ni Khairro.

Huminga ng malalim si Eliza. Nandito nalang naman siya, kung makakabawas ito sa bigat na dinadala niya, susubukan niya. “Yeah. Pero kapag namatay ako rito, mababaog ka.”

“Yes, turtle babe, I hear you.”

Lihim na natawa si Eliza saka nakinig sa instructions ni Khairro bago sila tumalon.

She trusts Khairro, but she was still scared as fuck! Ito ang unang beses na tatalon siya ng ganito kataas.

“Okay. Drop us here!” Pagkausap ni Khairro sa piloto ng Helicopter.

“Have fun, young master!”

Huh? Young master? Tama ba ang pagkakarinig niya? Pero bago pa siya makapagtanong kay Khairro kung tama ang narinig niya ay hinawakan nito ang magkabilang pulsuhan niya mula sa likuran at tumalon na sila.

Eliza’s mind went blank and she just screamed in fear. “Gaaago! Taaaang’ina! Taaaang’ina! Putaaaang’ina! Gagooo ka! Pangiiit! Gagoooo!”

Eliza was screaming, she was wiggling in so much fear but Khairro behind her was just laughing while doing his best to guide her body properly, especially the position of her hands and legs.

And as they continue to free fall, Eliza’s scream of terror receded and she was now enjoying the view and the air hitting her face.

“Now shout, babe.” Malakas na sabi ni Khairro. “Shout to your heart’s content.”

Eliza closed her eyes for a second and when she opened them, she screamed and screamed, but not for fear, but for everything that has happened in her life. Every frustration, every fear, every uncertainty and even her problems that she was keeping only to herself, she screamed it all.

There are no words in Eliza’s scream, it was just pure scream, but Khairro felt everything and understood the meaning of her screams.

Finally, after seconds had passed, after screaming her heart out, Eliza felt Khairro’s movement behind her and moments later, they were pulled up by the force of the parachute opening.

The free fall ended and Khairro was now controlling the parachute.

It’s not as scary as the free fall, being in a parachute with Khairro actually felt nice. It felt peaceful to be in the air, just the two of them, descending on a parachute.

“Thank you.” Ani Eliza.

“You’re welcome.”

Eliza smiled while looking at the scenery beneath their feet. “Let’s do this again, Pangit.”

“Anytime, babe.”

“You do this often?” Eliza asked.

“Only when I’m stress from work.”

Napatingala siya sa parachute saka bahagyang nilingon si Khairro ng may maalala. “Nag skydiving na ba kayo ni Ruth?”

Mahinang natawa si Khairro. “Is my turtle jealous?”

“Fuck you ka.” Eliza tsked. “May ‘you’ na may ‘ka’ pa. Oh, di’ba? Para doble ang lakas ng mura.”

Napailing lang si Khairro bago nagsalita. “Parang hindi pa. With Ruth, it’s more on trekking, mountain climbing and sea diving.”

“Hmm … okay.” That made Eliza feel at ease. “Mula ngayon, bawal ka nang makipag-skydiving sa iba. This is my territory in your life. Okay, Pangit?”

Khairro’s smile widened. “Okay, turtle.”

May sasabihin pa sana si Eliza kay Khairro ng makita niya ang isang isla malapit sa kanila. At parang yo’n ang destinasyon nila.

“That’s an island…” Aniya.

“That’s my family’s resort.” Sagot ni Khairro, “It’s private.”

“And we’re gonna land there?”

“Yeah.”

Eliza became excited, especially when she saw a small house floating in the ocean. “Nice!”

Khairro was happy to see Eliza enjoying herself. I’m relieved to see her happy again. He’s glad.

Khairro looked down when they were already near their landing area. After carefully navigating towards their family owned island, Khairro finally landed them safely on the beach and while Khairro was taking the gears off of Eliza’s body, she was just gaping at the floating house on the sea.

Akala niya kanina maliit ’yon dahil nasa taas sila, pero isang napalaking scam ’yon dahil napakalaki pala niyon sa malapitan.

“Holy … shit.” Pabulong na napamura si Eliza. “That’s a one big expensive looking house.”

“Turtle, it’s just a cottage.”

Eliza blinked at Khairro then she blinked at the house — no, the cottage. “May tao ba sa cottage na ’yon?”

“Nope. We have the whole Island to ourselves.”

Sa narinig, kaagad na tumakbo si Eliza sa bangka na naroon. “Come on, Pangit! Let’s go! I want to see that cottage up close! Come on! Hurry!”

Nagmadali naman si Khairro at iniwan lang ang parachute sa beach. Ipapakuha nalang niya iyon mamaya sa caretaker ng resort.

“Wow …” Eliza was admiring the boat they were in, “even your boat looks so expensive.”

Khairro just smiled while manoeuvring the boat towards the floating cottage, but for Eliza, it’s a floating house.

At habang papalapit at palapit sila sa floating house, palaki naman ng palaki ang pagkakaawang ng bibig ni Eliza.

“Now this is fucking lit.” Eliza mumbled when the boat stopped near the floating house’s staircase.

Nauna pa si Eliza kay Sanford na bumaba ng bangka at kaagad siyang umakyat sa floating house.

And then, in the middle of the floating house’s while standing on the wooden floor, Eliza whispered. “Dito ka mamaalam.”

Aking puti. This is it. This is the perfect place for you to say goodbye.

Kaagad siyang umikot paharap kay Khairro na kaaakyat palang sa hagdanan. “Pangit.”

“Hmm?”

“Let’s make love.”

CECELIB | C.C.

The boat

The floating house

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 12

ELIZA WAS wrapped in a comforter again while sitting on the white L-shaped sofa facing the ocean. It happened again. She hurt Khairro again while they were trying to make love. She couldn’t stop her body from reacting.

Kaya naman lumabas siya sa inukupa nilang kuwarto at tumambay dito sa labas. She felt so guilty. She was the one who asked, she was the one who told him to touched her, but she kept on hurting him. It may not be intentional, but she knew she’s hurting Khairro.

Huminga siya ng malalim saka napatingin sa kalangitan. The night sky was already peeking.

Eliza squeezed her eyes shut and cursed the memories she couldn’t forget in her past. It was not that severe before, but after what happened with Art, it became traumatic.

Akala niya hindi siya matatakot dahil si Khairro naman ’yon … pero mukhang mas lalo lang lumala ang takot ko.

Her mind would immediately go blank and the next thing she knew, she was being violent. This was the reason why she doesn’t want to be in a relationship. She’ll just hurt Khairro.

Eliza blows a loud breath and tightened the comforter around her. “Dapat hindi ko na siya ayaing gawin ’yon … kung sasaktan ko lang naman siya, mabuti nang hindi namin gawin ’yon.”

Natigilan si Eliza ng makarinig ng yabag papalapit sa sofa na kinauupuan niya. Alam niyang si Khairro ’yon. Halos hindi siya gumalaw lalo na nang tumabi ng upo sa kaniya ang binata at masuyo siyang niyakap.

“Papagabi na. Lalamigin ka rito.” Ani Khairro sa malambing na boses at mas lalo lang siyang nagi-guilty.

Nanatili siyang nakatingin sa karagatan. “Bakit?”

“Hmm?”

“Bakit mabait ka pa rin sakin?” Hindi napigilang tanong ni Eliza kay Khairro. “I kicked you. Twice now.”

Khairro looked at Eliza who was staring guiltily at the sea. He could tell that she was really bothered by what she did.

Mas hinigpitan pa ni Khairro ang yakap kay Eliza. “I’m not hurt, turtle—”

“That’s a lie to appease me.” Putol ni Eliza sa sasabihin ni Khairro. “Alam kong nasaktan kita. Maybe not physically, but I’m sure I’ve somehow damage you emotionally.”

“Emotionally? You mean my ego?” Eliza was silent and Khairro kissed Eliza’s temple. “Well, I’m not perfect, so yes, I can feel my ego bruising a bit, but, it’s okay, babe. I can take it. What I can’t take is seeing you frightened in bed with me. I rather you kick me than force yourself to continue making love with me.”

Nilingon ni Eliza si Khairro at pinakatitigan ito bago pabulong na nagsalita. “Salamat dahil … hindi mo ako pinilit.”

Khairro kissed Eliza’s cheek and smiled, “I know a lot of women who had a frightening experience with men, I saw how they suffer, so as much as possible, I don’t want to be the kind of man who would hurt women like that and my mom’s heart will be broken for sure.”

Ibinuka ni Eliza ang comforter na nakapulupot sa sarili saka ipinalibot iyon kay Khairro para magkasama sila sa loob ng comforter.

“Sorry because I kicked you again.” Ani Eliza saka sumandal sa dibdib ng kasintahan. “I don’t mean to do it. It just happen.”

“Is that why you don’t want to be in a relationship with me before?”

Tumango si Eliza. “What I did to you, hurting you like that, that’s not the worse thing I could do to you — I could do more than that. I could even kill you,” Eliza paused before squeezing her eyes shut, “there’s evil inside of me, Pangit. It’s so evil that I’m scared of what I could do to you.”

Khairro hugged Eliza inside the comforter. “I’m strong, Eli. Hindi mo ako basta-basta masasaktan.”

Wala sa sariling sumagot si Eliza. “That’s what Art said.”

Khairro’s jaw tightened. “I’m not Art, Eliza.”

Natigilan si Eliza saka napakurap-kurap at doon lang rumehistro sa isip niya ang sinabi. “Sorry, Pangit. I didn’t mean to mention him.”

Khairro was trying his best not to show his jealousy and possessiveness. “Did … Art hurt you?”

Hindi sumagot si Eliza kaya hindi na umasa si Khairro na sasagot ito. When it comes to her tenth ex, Eliza always had a tight lip, but he was surprised when Eliza spoked after a couple of seconds.

“He … was a good boyfriend.”

“Really?” Khairro knew that his voice was dripping with jealousy.

Tumango si Eliza. “He was good … ’til our anniversary. Then he became the wolf that he was who had been hiding in a sheep clothing all along.”

“What did he … do to you?” Tanong ni Khairro pagkatapos halikan sa nuo ang dalaga. “May kinalaman ba siya kung bakit takot na takot ka kapag nasa mga hita mo na ako? You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to, babe. I’m not forcing you.”

Umiling si Eliza. “He was not the reason for my fear, it has always been there.” Sagot ni Eliza saka mas lalong pinagsiksikan ang katawan sa katawan ni Khairro.

“What do you mean?”

“My fear has always been there, inside me since I can remember.” Pagkuwento ni Eliza. “I don’t know why but every time I see a man hovering a woman on bed or on the floor, even in films, my mind and body would immediately react and became violent. I don’t know why it happens to me, but it’s really frightening. I can’t stop it. And it’s not only that … there’s more that I can’t even talk about. It’s scary.”

Hinagod ni Khairro ang likod ni Eliza. “Then don’t talk about it. You’re already trembling, babe.”

Eliza stopped talking and in a few seconds, she calmed down.

Eliza took a deep breath. “Pasensiya na, Pangit. Gusto kong magkuwento sayo pero ayaw lumabas sa bibig ko.”

Khairro just caressed Eliza’s back while hugging her. “It’s okay. Don’t be guilty about it. Hindi mo naman kasalanan na hindi mo kayang magkuwento sakin, siguro hindi ka pa handa kaya ganun.”

Hearing Khairro not forcing her to tell him made Eliza feel at ease. “Salamat, Pangit.”

Khairro just kissed Eliza’s temple and continued hugging her, enjoying the silence while watching the sunset.

“Pangit?” After a minute of silence, Eliza spoke.

“Hmm?”

“Let’s do it again.” Binabawi na ni Eliza ang desisyon kanina na hindi na gawin ’yon. “May naisip akong magandang ideya.”

Mahinang natawa si Khairro. “Would you be okay?”

“Oo naman, baka ikaw ang hindi okay.” Ani Eliza. “Dalawang beses na kitang nasipa.”

“Nakaiwas ako kanina bago mo ako sipain.”

Napakagat-labi si Eliza saka nag-angat ng tingin kay Khairro. “Sorry na, Pangit.”

“Don’t mention it. It’s okay.”

Kahit ganun, guilty pa rin si Eliza. “Basta. Sa pagkakataong ’to, hindi na kita masisipa.”

Khairro rested the side of his head on her shoulder. “Let’s do it later. For now, let’s just cuddle. I like it.”

Eliza smiled and cuddled closer to Khairro. “Yeah. Feels warm.”

“Yeah … warm.”

Khairro ang Eliza stayed in the same position for minutes. Hugging, cuddling and just feeling warm and comfortable with each other.

It feels nice. There was nothing sexual with what they’re doing, but Eliza felt closer to Khairro like this. It felt intimate somehow … more intimate than kissing.

“Turtle?”

Eliza snuggled closer to Khairro. “Hmm?”

“What do say about meeting my brother?”

Natigilan si Eliza saka nag-angat ng tingin kay Khairro. “Brother? You have a brother?” Gulat niyang tanong.

Khairro smiled before nodding. “Hindi ba naikuwento ko na na may ibang pamilya ang ama ko?”

Tumango si Eliza. “Yeah.” Medyo nanlaki ang mga mata ni Eliza. “May kapatid ka sa kaniya?!”

Tumango si Khairro. “He’s actually a year older than me.”

Eliza blinked at Khairro. “So … maayos ang relasyon niyong dalawa?”

Khairro sighed before nodding. “Nakilala ko siya bago ako pumasok sa PNPA. I actually dislike him at first, but Mom told me that it’s not his fault that my father left us and chose them. So we give it a chance and we became friends, I guess — though don’t tell him I said ‘friends’. He hated that word because he really likes us to be called brothers for some reason.”

Napangiti si Eliza dahil naalala niya rin ang Kuya niya. “Yeah … si Kuya rin ganun. So overprotective. Kaya kapag nalaman niyang may relasyon tayo, magtago ka na sa puwede nong pagtaguan, Pangit. Siguradong ililibing ka no’n ng buhay.”

Maginang tumawa si Khairro. “Knowing Knight, that’s indeed possible, but if I hide, then he’ll be more pissed because he’ll think i’m not serious about you. So I’ll take his anger and protectiveness like a man.”

Eliza rolled her eyes. “Papatayin ka ni Kuya panigurado lalo na’t sinalakay mo ako.”

Khairro smirked teasingly at Eliza. “You asked for it.”

Mabilis na kinurot ni Eliza sa tagiliran si Khairro na ikinatawa lang ng huli. “Gago ka talaga tapos pangit pa.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Khairro said dismissively while still chuckling. “Anyway,” Khairro tightened his embraced on Eliza, “my brother will be visiting next week. I want him to meet you if that’s okay.”

“Sure.” Walang pag-aalinlangan na sagot ni Eliza. Gusto niyang makilala lahat ng malapit sa binata. Hay… gumagana na naman ang utak stalker ko — slight lang pala. “What’s his name?”

“Kieran.”

Tumaas ang kilay ni Eliza. “Pareho kayong K ang umpisa ng pangalan?”

Khairro’s face became unpleasant. “It’s our father who named us both.”

Napalabi si Eliza. “Sorry I asked.”

“It’s okay.” Khairro smiled at her. “My brother was in PMA while I was in PNPA. He served two years in the Air Force before he decided to join the Scout Rangers.”

Bahagyang nanlaki ang mga mata ni Eliza. “Scout Ranger ang Kuya mo?”

“Yeah.” Khairro smiled and he looked proud. “He’s visiting next week. He’s on vacation for two weeks, so, let’s have dinner with him.”

“Okay.” Sumandal si Eliza sa dibdib ni Khairro habang nakaharap siya sa dagat at nakapalibot pa rin ng comforter ang katawan. “What should I wear?”

“Anything, I guess, but if you’re okay with not sexy clothing, preferably turtle neck kind of clothing for dinner, it’ll be so much appreciated by me.”

Eliza rolled her eyes. “Ayoko nga. Ang init dito sa Pinas para mag turtle neck. Gago ka ba?”

Tumawa si Khairro. “What? You were asking.”

“Gago.” Eliza murmured. “Ikaw kaya pagsuotin ko ng turtle neck kung matuwa ka.”

“Oo na. Gago na ako para hilingin ’yon.” Ako ni Khairro sa kasalanan.

“Buti alam mong gago ka.” Eliza tsked. “May ex ako na sobrang seloso, nakakagago lang kaya nakipag-break ako kaagad.”

Napangiwi si Khairro sa narinig. Looks like I have to control it well.

“I’m used to hearing my boss telling his wife that she’s his and he’s so possessive it’s annoying sometimes. Buti natatagalan siya ni Etheyl. Kung ako hiniwalayan ko na ’yon. Kung maka-angkin siya, bakit, siya nagpakain kay Etheyl mula pagkabata niya? Siya ang nagpalaki kay Etheyl? Gago lang.”

“Says the girl who just told me not to skydiving with other people.”

Napalabi si Eliza. “Fine. I’ll edit it. Don’t go skydiving with other women. Bakit? Kasi hindi lahat ng babae matino, may malalandi riyan sa paligid na nangaakit kahit alam nang may boyfriend. Ang daming lalaki sa mundo, gusto pa nila taken. Bakit? Mas masarap ba kapag pagmamay-ari na nang iba?”

Khairro didn’t know what to say. Hindi pa naman niya nagagawa ang sinasabi nito at wala siyang balak.

“Oh, bakit tahimik ka riyan?” Sikmat ni Eliza na nakasimangot. “Kapag ikaw, Pangit, nagpakalabit ka sa iba, puputulan talaga kita. Makikita mo kung gaano ako kabaliw. Kung ayaw mo na, magsabi ka. Hindi na lolokohin mo ako!”

Napaigtad si Khairro sa pagsigaw ni Eliza. What did I do? Nakangiwing tanong ni Khairro sa sarili. Wala naman akong ginagawa, ah.

“Anyway,” biglang naging maaliwalas ang mood ni Eliza, “paano tayo magdi-dinner? May pagkain ba sa kusina niyo na puwedeng lutuin?”

“Don’t worry about it.” Ani Khairro, “nag-text na ako sa caretaker na dalhan tayo rito ng pagkain.”

“Ah,” napatango-tango si Eliza saka tumingala sa kalangitan na madilim na. “Look, Pangit, the stars are showing.”

“Yeah … they look pretty.”

“Hmm.”

“Want to see something cool?”

Nilingon ni Eliza si Khairro. “What?”

Umalis si Khairro sa loob ng comforter saka hinawakan ang kamay ni Eliza at masuyo nitong hinila papasok ng bahay ang dalaga habang ito ang may dala-dala sa comforter.

“Come on.” Aya ni Khairro habang ginigiya si Eliza patungong attic ng floating house.

Nagpaubaya naman si Eliza dahil mukhang excited si Khairro, pero ng makarating sila sa attic, siya ang mas na-excite ng makakita ng star gazing telescope.

“Yey! Telescope!” Excited na sigaw ni Eliza saka mas nauna pang tumakbo palapit doon keysa kay Khairro na iniwan ng dalaga at binitawan ang kamay na ikinailing nalang ng binata.

Khairro stopped on his track to watched Eliza excitedly used and navigate the telescope to stargazed. She looked like she knew what she was doing and Khairro couldn’t help but to stare at Eliza.

He liked her crazy antics and this childish part of her. He couldn’t take seeing her frightened and sad. Ayaw niyang makita sa mukha ni Eliza ang kaparehong takot na nakikita niya sa mukha ng mga biktima ng sexual harassment at iyon ang nakikita niya sa pangalawang beses na sinipa siya nito.

Eliza may not be able to tell him now, but he could feel it, something close to sexual harassment happened to her.

Honestly, he doesn’t want to touched her again because he doesn’t want to see that frightened emotion on her face, but if he rejected her, she might think differently and misunderstood him.

Khairro took a deep breath before walking to Eliza and wrapping the comforter he was holding around her body.

Kaagad na nilingon siya ni Eliza. May malapad itong ngiti sa mga labi at nagniningning sa saya ang mga mata nito.

“Stars, Pangit! I can see lots of stars!” Eliza excited said before going back to startaze on the telescope.

Umupo si Khairro sa bench na gawa sa kahoy na kinauupuan ni Eliza saka ihinilig niya ang ulo sa balikat nito habang nag-i-stargazing naman ang dalaga.

The silence was peaceful and not defeaning. Khairro felt peaceful with Eliza beside him. She feels warm and comfortable. She feels like his condo — homey.

“You done, babe?” Malambing ang boses na tanong ni Khairro kay Eliza ng dumistansiya ang mga mata nito sa teleskopyo.

“Hmm-mm.” Eliza sighed in contentment. “That was so good. There’s not a lot of starts though.”

“Why don’t we stargaze again when the sky is clear?”

“Yeah. We should do that.”

Umayos ng upo si Khairro saka hinalikan ang balikat ni Eliza bago tumingin dito. “Promise?”

Eliza smiled and kissed Khairro’s shoulder as well, “promise.”

Mahinang natawa si Khairro sa panggagaya ni Eliza sa kaniya, kapagkuwan ay si Eliza naman ang humilig sa balikat niya habang nakatingin sila sa parte ng bubong na gawa sa salamin.

“Pangit?”

“Hmm?” Khairro answered. Nasasanay na si Khairro sa tawag na ’yon sa kaniya ni Eliza.

“Let’s do it again.”

Khairro knew what she meant. “Babe, don’t push yourself. It’s okay if we don’t do it. I’ll be a liar if I tell you right now that I don’t want it, but I think you’re still not ready to give it to me and I can wait just fine.” Khairro said with a shrugged. “I mean … I want us to date because I like you, not because I want to have sex with you.”

Tama si Pangit … baka hindi pa talaga ako handa. But why am I forcing myself anyway? That question made her stilled when her mind answered her own question. It’s because you’re afraid he’ll leave if you don’t give it to him just like all your exes who wanted it, only to leave you because you don’t

want

to give it to them.

Eliza sighed. “Sorry, Pangit.”

“Bakit ka nagso-sorry?” Nagtatakang tanong ni Khairro kay Eliza.

“I’m used to my exes asking sex from me.” Ani Eliza, “and then they all left and cheated on me because I didn’t give in, so this, me asking you to make love to me … I think i’m just scared that you’ll be like my exes. Baka iwan mo rin ako kapag hindi ko naibigay sayo ang bagay na ’yon. I’m pathetic, aren’t I? Panay sabi ko na hindi kita gusto, pero heto, natatakot ako na iwan mo.”

Khairro intertwined their hands and he squeezed her hand, “babe, I want it too, but, I’ll wait ’til you’re ready. Let’s just date each other, get to know each other more and be with each other. Saka na natin gawin ’yon kapag handa ka na. Sa ngayon, huwag na muna nating isipin ’yon. Let’s just continue our date.”

Eliza nodded and smiled widely. Parang gumaan ang pakiramdam niya sa narinig na sinabi ni Khairro. Pero may pag-aalinlangan pa rin sa likod ng isip niya. ’Yon din kasi ang sinabi ni Art noon sa kaniya, pero lahat pala ay kasinungalingan lang lahat.

But Khairro was different … Khairro was not Art. She knew Khairro since they were teens. She knew too much of him that she could passed as his stalker, and she knew he was a nice guy … except when he rejected her. He was a bad guy then.

How dare he reject my sincere confession just because I look young?! Baby face ako! Baby face! Gago!

“What’s going on in that head of yours that you’re pouting too much?” Tanong ni Khairro kay Eliza ng makitang parang malalim itong nag-iisip habang nakanguso.

Eliza glared at Khairro. “Naalala ko na naman nuong binasted mo ako. Gago! Naiinis ako!”

“I really can’t remember, turtle, I’m sorry.”

Eliza tsked. “I hate you!” Pagkasabi no’n ay iniwan ni Eliza si Khairro sa attic.

Napatitig nalang si Khairro sa nilabasang pinto ng dalaga saka napailing. Mukhang inaatake na naman ang cute niyang pagong.

She’s so cute. Khairro thought before smiling to himself and walking after Eliza.

Nang makababa siya, nagmamadali siyang lumabas ng makita ang caretaker na papaakyat sa floating house mula sa bangka na kinalululanan nito.

Kaagad na kinuha ni Khairro ang isa sa dalawang tray na hawak nito. “Tulungan ko na kayo—”

“Naku, huwag na, Señorito.” Kaagad na pigil sa kaniya ni Alberto, “kaya ko na ’to.”

“Hayaan niyo na akong tumulong, Mang Alberto, ang dami niyong dala eh.”

Napangiti ang caretaker sa sinabi niya. “Ang bait niyo pa rin, Señorito. Nakakatuwa na hindi kayo nagbabago.”

Khairro just smiled and helped the caretaker to bring the food to the table on the side, just few meters away from the sofa they were sitting on earlier.

Nang maihanda nila ang pagkain, tinungo ni Khairro ang gilid ng floating cottage, sa harap ng sliding door na gawa sa salamin saka tumingala sa second floor na nakabukas ang sliding door. Nandoon ang kuwarto na inukupa nila. Hindi ’yon kataasan kaya alam niyang maririnig siya ni Eliza kung naroon man ang dalaga.

“Turtle, babe!” Tawag niya sa dalaga. “Baba ka muna.”

“Ayoko!” Eliza shouted back. “I hate you!”

“The food is ready!” Khairro shouted again.

A couple of seconds of silence and Eliza replied. “Bababa na ako!”

Mahinang natawa si Khairro. Pagdating talaga sa pagkain, walang palalampasin ang dalaga.

Nagpasalamat muna si Khairro kay Mang Alberto na papaalis na saka tinungo ang lamesa.

“Food! Food! Nagugutom na ako!” Eliza was skipping while walking and immediately smiled when she saw the food.

“Kain na tayo.” Aya niya sa dalaga.

“Okay.” Eliza answered with a smile. Parang hindi ito galit kanina at parang walang nangyari.

Lihim nalang siyang napailing saka pinaghugot niya nang upuan ang dalaga.

“Mukhang masarap.” Eliza even licked her lips before trying the food, then her smile widened. “Yep! It’s delicious!”

Khairro smile. “Eat up, turtle.”

“Yes, Sir.” Ani Eliza na sumaludo pa sa kaniya bago kumain.

Khairro shook his head at Eliza’s playfulness before he delved in to the food.

It was a pleasant dinner. Just the two of them. Talking about anything they could think of. From their likes to dislikes to their hobbies and favorites.

And their conversation continued on the L-shaped sofa while snuggling close to each other with comforter wrapped around them to combat the cold breeze of the ocean at night.

They could hear the waves lapping on the shore and softly hitting the floating cottage while they talked under the moon and the stars. Laughing at their past, sharing their dreams in life and telling each other what they want in the future.

Khairro and Eliza taked for hours ’til Eliza felt her eyelids became heavy and fell asleep on the sofa. Nang mapansin naman ni Khairro na nakatulog na ang dalaga, tumayo siya mula sa pagkakahiga sa sofa saka maingat na binuhat ang dalaga at dinala sa kuwarto niya.

After he laid Eliza on the bed, he laid himself beside her and embraced her closed to him.

“Good night, babe.” Khairro whispered, “see you tomorrow, turtle.”

CECELIB | C.C.

A/N: Before mag ‘sana totoo si Khairro’. My sister and one of my friend actually knew a guy who’s a gentleman. A guy who used his head up above and not the head down below. 🤷🏻‍♀️ pero mukhang rare species ang mga kagaya nila. 😅

CHAPTER 13

CHAPTER 13

IT WAS THE first relationship for Eliza that she was not emotionally and sexually pressured. Khairro was the first boyfriend she got who didn’t ask for sex, who respected her and as days passed while they’re together, Eliza came to a hopeful conclusion that Khairro was not the same as her exes.

He wouldn’t leave her just because she couldn’t have sex with him. He wouldn’t leave her just because she cussed a lot and she’s not lady-like. He wouldn’t leave her just because her attitude sucks.

And for that, she wanted to make it up to him. She wanted to be a good girlfriend for him. But it’s easier said than done. Ilang beses na ba niyang sinubukang maging mabait? Hindi nangyayari. Sinubukan niya ring hindi nagmura, pero wala ring nangyari.

Eliza heave a deep sighed and pouted. Ano ba ang puwede ko pang gawin para maging makabawi man lang ako kay Pangit? Sa tanong na ’yon, napatingin siya kay Raizen, ang bodyguard niya na kasama niya ngayong kumakain sa cafeteria na nasa loob ng kompaniyang pinagta-trabahuan.

“Lalaki ka diba?”

Raizen looked at her from his food then he looked down to his crotch before looking at her again. “Last time I check, yeah.”

“May tanong ako.”

Raizen looked like he was bracing himself. “Anong … tanong mo?”

“May girlfriend ka na?”

Umiling ang kausap.

“Nagka-girlfriend ka na?” Pag-iiba ni Eliza sa tanong.

“Yeah. Before.”

“That’s good enough,” ani Eliza, “anyway, ang tanong ko, ano ba ang bagay na ginagawa ng girlfriend mo noon na gusto mo? Yong parang bumabawi ba, ganun.”

Raizen frowned. “I think it’s different for every guy. Kung ikaw at si Khairro ang pag-uusapan natin dito … hmm … I’ve been friends with Khairro for so many years now and I can say that he’s not really a demanding kind of person. He’s more like a giver, you know what I mean? In short, he’s an understanding kind of boyfriend.”

Napangiwi si Eliza. “Bakit parang ‘under’ ang pagkakaintindi ko sa sagot mo?”

Raizen chuckled. “Not that, but close enough. He’s not a pushy kind of a guy, he’s more like ‘I will understand you’ kind of guy. My cousin, his first ex, told me once that Khairro was too good to be true that’s why she broke up with him.”

Napatanga siya sa kausap. “What?”

“Yep.” Raizen sighed. “I mean, I didn’t mean to bring out the ex, but that’s what she said. Khairro is too good to be true that she feels like she had to be a perfect girlfriend for him and it exhausted her that’s why she broke up with him.”

I feel you, first ex . Ani Eliza sa isip saka napabuntong-hininga. “I agree with her … he’s just too good to be true.”

“It’s his nature.” Ani Raizen kapagkuwan. “If you want to be a good girlfriend to him, just be yourself. I’m sure he likes you for who you are. Just don’t cheat on him. He hates that.”

Siguro dahil sa ama niya . Sa isip ni Eliza saka bumuntong-hininga siya.

“Don’t be pressured.” Ani Raizen kapagkuwan ng ilang segundo siyang natahimik. “Khairro is a chill kind of guy. Just be you and Khairro will appreciate it. No need to be somebody else you’re not. Just be the woman he likes. That’s all.”

Eliza took a deep breath before looking at Raizen. “Thanks.”

Raizen smiled. “Don’t mention it.”

Kahit papaano medyo kumalma si Eliza. Raizen was right. I just have to be me. No pressure.

With that in mind, Eliza returned to work and continued with her day.

When she got home that night, she was excited to see Khairro. Wala naman siyang eksaktong rason kung bakit, basta excited lang siya na makita ito.

Pero habang nagluluto siya ng hapunan nila, nakatanggap siya ng tawag mula kay Khairro na hindi ito makakauwi dahil may importante itong gagawin sa trabaho nito.

Eliza was immediately depleted.

At habang kumakain siya ng hapunan ng mag-isa, panay ang buntong-hininga niya.

Nakakaloka naman ’tong nangyayari sakin. Nababagot ako dahil wala si Pangit . When did she became this dependent on Pangit’s presence anyway?

Eliza sighed again.

Palagi kasi silang magkasama nitong mga nakaraang araw na normal na sa katawan niya na hanapin ang presensiya nito.

Tinapos nalang ni Eliza ang pagkain saka nagligpit ng pinagkainan, pagkatapos no’n ay humilata siya sa kuwarto niya habang pinapalipas ang oras gamit ang cellphone niya.

She was searching the web and while browsing, she came across this article about sex at first time. She got interested so she read the article and what she read horrified her.

Alam niyang masakit sa umpisa, pero hindi niya akalaing may nadadala sa Hospital dahin do’n.

The horror …

Nasapo niya ang mukha ng matapos mabasa ang article. Good heavens! Gaano ba kasakit ’yon?!

Parang biglang natuyo ang lalamunan niya kaya naman lumabas siya ng kuwarto at tinungo ang kusina para uminom ng tubig.

And while drinking water from the glass, she remembered what the article said about the size of your partner.

Napalunok si Eliza saka napatingin sa baso na hawak. Hindi naman siguro ganito kalaki ang kay Pangit diba? Napailing siya. Ano ba ’tong iniisip ko — pero, kung ganito nga kalaki ang kay Khairro, tiyak na mapupunit ang puri ko — hindi lang punit kundi wasak!

Nasapo niya ang mukha. The horror!

Mabilis siyang bumalik sa kuwarto niya at binalot ang sarili sa comforter.

Eliza was so scared about Khairro’s length that she haven’t see n before that she actually had a dream about it that night!

When morning came, she was horrified with herself because of the dream she had.

I have to see how big he is! It’s a must! A life and death!

Hindi lang mawawala ang puri niya, mawawasak pa! Kawawa naman ang puri ko kapag nangyari ’yon. Puri, I’m so sorry. You’re going to experience a horrible farewell,

Eliza was preoccupied by her dream that her day passed by like a blur, next thing she knew, she was going home with Raizen as her driver.

“You okay?” Raizen asked Eliza when they’re inside the elevator going up to her condo.

“Yeah…” she whispered.

“Parang wala ka sa sarili.”

“Hmm…” Eliza hummed, “I need my comforter right now.”

Napapatastikuhan man, hindi na nagsalita ulit si Raizen. He had been observing Eliza since morning and she seems not her usual self. She would sometimes make this horrified expression on her face when she’s staring at nothingness and it’s bothering him so he told Khairro about it.

I hope she’ll be back to her usual self tomorrow. Raizen thought while they’re walking towards Eliza’s unit.

“…night, Raizen.” Eliza mumbled before going inside her condo.

“Good night.” Sagot ni Raizen saka umalis siya kaagad. Khairro already told him that he was already home, that means it’s okay to go home.

Nang makapasok si Eliza sa condo niya, kaagad niyang nakita si Khairro sa harapan ng TV.

Parang kidlat na kaagad siyang lumapit dito. Kailangan malinawan ang isip ko! Hindi na gulong-gulong ako! Shuta!

Khairro smiled upon seeing her. “Hey, turtle, babe, I miss you—”

Hindi na natapos ni Khairro ang sasabihin dahil bigla nalang lumuhod si Eliza sa sahig, sa harapan niya saka tumingala sa binata.

“Pangit.”

Khairro gulped and took a deep calm breath. “Yes?” Her position was stirring him up! I’m a gentleman, but I’m no saint!

“Can I see your penis?” Deretsong tanong ni Eliza na ikinatigil naman ng paghinga ni Khairro.

He was looking at Eliza like she just lost her head.

“Babe…” Khairro was trying his hardest to be calm. “Don’t stir me up so much. And showing you my penis is not, it’s not, you know, it’s — it’s —” Khairro couldn’t find the right word to explain himself.

Eliza frowned. “Why not? Nakita mo naman ’yong sakin, ah. Nahawakan mo pa nga. Bakit ako, hindi puwedeng gawin ’yon sayo?”

Eliza was dead serious, making Khairro speechless. She must have a reason for this … but it’s Eliza, so maybe she’s curious and it’s one of her crazy antics again.

Khairro took a deep breath and forced himseld to be level headed. Hindi puwede ang ulo niya sa ibaba ang paganahin niya.

“Turtle, babe,” nakikiusap ang boses ni Khairro habang nakatingin sa kasintahan, “I feel uncomfortable showing it to you.”

“Huh?” Tumaas ang kilay ni Eliza. “Bakit?”

“Just because.”

Sumama ang mukha ni Eliza. “Anong ‘just because’? Hindi ’yon sapat na dahilan. Just show it to me, Pangit. I wanna see to be at ease! May nabasa akong article kagabi na masakit ang first time sa babae pero mas masakit kapag gifted ang patner ni babae. Do you have any idea how horrified I was last night? I even had a dream about big penis chasing me in the dark!”

Napatanga si Khairro sa kasintahan. “Babe, you’re not sleep deprived, are you?”

“Pangit!”

“What?” Khairro was looking at Eliza intently. “Why would you even dream of that?”

“Kasi natakot nga ako!” Inis na sagot ni Eliza. “Kaya ipakita mo na sakin ’yang tinatago mo para kumalma ako. I’m scared shit, Pangit!”

“What if,” Khairro drawls, “I’m gifted down there?”

Eliza stilled and gulped. “Let me see and I’ll decide. If it’s too big, sorry, Pangit, I’m breaking up with you.”

“The hell?!” That was the first time Khairro felt terrified. “Babe, don’t be like that. You’re being unreadable.”

Napasalampak si Eliza ng upo sa sahig na parang nanghihina. “So you’re big down there?” She was teary eyes in a matter of seconds, “oh my God, mawawasak ako panigurado. Ang puri ko, Pangit. Wawasakin mo ang puri ko.”

Khairro sighed before he decided. There’s only one thing to stop Eliza’s overthinking.

Binuksan ni Khairro ang butones ng pantalon na suot saka ibinaba ang zipper saka walang pag-aalinlangan na inilabas ang gustong makita ni Eliza.

“Here you go, Turtle.”

Kaagad na lumuhod ulit si Eliza saka itinutok ang mata sa pagkalalaki ni Khairro.

Wala sa sariling napahawak si Eliza sa pagkababae niya. “Pangit, hindi mo ba puwedeng paliitin ’yan?”

“Babe, I’m just half hard.”

Eliza’s jaw dropped and her eyes nearly popped out of its socket when she saw Khairro’s penis grew even bigger.

“T-that — t-that’s a monster!” Sigaw ni Eliza habang takot na nakatingin sa pagkalalaki ni Khairro. “Pangit! Paliitin mo yan! Paliitin mo!”

“You’re the one stirring it up.”

Napatanga siya sa kasintahan. “So, kasalanan ko bakit biglang lumaki ’yang hayop na ’yan?”

“Kind of.”

Napatitig ulit si Eliza sa pagkalalaki ni Khairro. Maybe it’s just my eyes … maybe it’s deceiving me. Should I touch it to make sure?

With that in mind, without an ounce of hesitation, Eliza wrapped her palm around Khairro’s length making Khairro jolt in sudden pleasure.

Napatingala si Eliza kay Khairro. “What? Am I holding it wrong?”

Khairro had to do everything he could to even his breathing and control himself from moving to attack Eliza. “Babe,” he was gritting his teeth to control himself, “don’t touch. It’s dangerous.”

“Huh?” Eliza looked down on Khairro’s erection. What’s dangerous about this?

Unconsciously, Eliza’s hand on Khairro moved and Khairro groaned.

Eliza stilled when she heard that groan. It sounded so sexy and erotic.

That’s right . She remembered the videos she watched back in College … this was one of the most sensitive part of a man’s body.

“Babe, hands off.” Ani Khairro na nagtatagis ang bagang. “That’s dangerous.”

Pero sa halip na makinig, iginalaw ni Eliza ang kamay na may hawak sa pagkalalaki nito ng pataas at pababa habang nakatingin sa emosyong naglalaro sa mukha ni Khairro.

The desire written on Khairro’s face and his dark gaze on her. Yes. This is indeed dangerous.

What have I gotten myself into? I should stop.

Pero kapag ginawa naman niya iyon, masasaktan na naman si Khairro. It’s partly her fault that he was turned on. She was the one who mindlessly asked him to show his penis to her.

“I’ll take responsibility.” Ani Eliza kay Khairro habang nakatingin dito. “Tell me if I’m doing it wrong, okay?”

Khairro couldn’t say no to Eliza and to what she was doing. He liked it so much that he’s starting to pant. Fuck! It’s just her hand and he’s already a fucking mess!

Eliza liked what she was seeing, Khairro heaving and trying to control himself by clenching and unclenching his fist and sometimes grabbing the sofa’s armrest.

The power of her hand was seen on Khairro’s face. He liked it. He wants it and more.

And some reason, while Eliza was giving Khairro a hand, she couldn’t take her eyes off on the tip of Khairro’s length. It looked tempting — it was seducing her to lean forward and have a taste.

And her body just move before she could even think it thoroughly and before she knew it, her tongue was out and it was licking the tip of Khairro’s erection.

And out of where, white liquid shoot up to her face making her jump.

Ilang segundo ang lumipas bago na realize ni Eliza kung ano ang sumabog sa mukha niya.

It’s a freaking semen! Khairro’s semen!

Iminulat niya ang mga mata na napapikit ng sumabog sa mukha niya ang katas at tumingin kay Khairro na may pinaghalong takot at hiya ang mukha. At sa mga sandaling ’yon, nararamdaman ni Eliza ang pagdaloy ng katas nito pababa sa pisngi niya.

Tumalim ang mga mata ni Eliza. “I can’t believe you just gave me a facial.”

The fear and embarrassment on Khairro’s face changed into confusion, “what facial?”

Tinuro niya ang katas nito sa mukha niya. “This, bastard! This is called facial!”

Khairro looked even more confused. “Babe, what have you been reading?”

Eliza tsked and stood up. “I’ll go clean up and do something about that.” Tinuro niya ang pagkalalaki nito. “Sabi doon sa article na nabasa ko, mas masaya raw kung matagal labasan ang lalaki. Umayos ka, Pangit. Dapat matagal kang labasan para masaya.” Ani Eliza saka umalis.

Si Khairro naman na naiwan sa salas ay napatitig sa kasintahan. What has she been reading?

Napasandal siya sa likod ng sofa pagkatapos ayusin ang sarili.

That was fast. Khairro thought while shaking his head in disbelief. Maybe because I’d been holding back? Damn! That was embarrassing… coming so fast and cumming on Eli.

Khairro sighed and looked at Eliza who just stepped out from the bathroom with freshly wash face. “Sorry, turtle. I didn’t mean to do it. I told you not to stir me up.”

Nagkibit-balikat lang si Eliza saka patagilid na umupo sa hita niya.

“You okay, babe?” Khairro asked Eliza.

“Hmm.” Eliza hummed and sighed. “Natatakot pa rin ako, Pangit. Bakit naman kasi ang laki niyang sayo, ha? Anong mangyayari sakin kapag pinasok mo ’yan? Ayokong mawasak. Papatayin kita.”

Mahinang natawa si Khairro. “I don’t know too, babe, but I think it’ll come down to my performance.”

Natigilan si Eliza. Nabasa niya rin ’yon sa article. Nakadepende sa performance ng kapareha mo ang saya na maabot niyo.

“Pangit?”

“Hmm?”

“Magaling ka ba sa bagay na ’yon?”

Khairro softly shrugged. “I don’t know.”

“But you have experience, right?”

Natigilan si Khairro saka nag-aalangang nagbaba ng tingin may Eliza. “Is that a trick question?”

Eliza tsked. “Sagutin mo nalang.”

“Yep. That’s a trick question—”

“Nagtatanong lang naman ako, ah.”

“Yep, and then you’ll be mad at me for having experience.”

Tiningala ni Eliza si Khairro saka sarkastikong nagsalita. “Wow. A round of applause. Paano mo nalaman?”

Khairro playfully pinched Eliza’s cheek. “Don’t be sarcastic, turtle. I’m serious.”

“I’m serious too and it’s an innocent question.” Pagtatanggol ni Eliza sa sarili. “Nagtatanong lang ako kasi gusto kong malaman. ’Yon lang.”

Niyakap ni Khairro si Eliza saka hinalikan ito sa gilid ng nuo. “Yeah. I have experience.”

“Okay,” Eliza didn’t make a fuss about it, making Khairro felt relieved. “Kung ganung may experience ka na pala, galingan mo kapag handa na akong isuko ang bataan.”

Pigil ni Khairro ang matawa. “Yes, turtle, by the way, have you eaten? I bought take out.”

Eliza immediately jumped off of him and run to the kitchen. “Food!”

Napailing nalang siya sa sinundan ang kasintahan sa kusina. Eliza was already readying the food.

“Upo ka na.” Ani Eliza. “Kain na tayo. Nagugutom na ako.”

Tumalima naman kaagad si Khairro saka sabay silang kumain ng hapunan ni Eliza.

“I’ll be busy tomorrow again, babe.” Ani Khairro habang naghahapunan sila ni Eliza. “Hindi ko alam kung makakauwi ako. I already ask Raizen to take care of you for the time being. I swear, I’ll make it up to you. May malaki kaming kaso ngayon, kailangan nandoon ako para suportahan ang mga tauhan ko. And the press keeps on nagging at me about the case’s update, others keep saying we’re neglecting our duties. My head is about to explode.”

Eliza stopped eating to look at Khairro. “Want a hug?”

Napatingin si Khairro sa kasintahan. “You’re not mad?”

Nagsalubong ang kilay ni Eliza. “Bakit naman ako magagalit?”

“I’m always busy these past few days.”

Mas lalong nagsalubong pa ang kilay ni Eliza. “Well, it’s work.” Eliza said with a shrugged. “And as your girlfriend, I want to be your comfort when you get home and leave the stress from work.”

Khairro’s face softened. “Thank you.”

Eliza just shrugged and continued eating.

Lihim namang napangiti si Khairro. Eliza may cussed him a lot and her crazy antics may be severe sometimes, but she’s a caring person. Hindi nga lang halata.

“How about you?” Tanong ni Khairro sa kasintahan. “How’s work?”

“Same as usual. Hindi na naman pumasok ang magaling kong boss.”

Khairro chuckled. “Well, busy si Calyx sa triplets niya.”

“I know. Kaya nga hindi ko na siya sinisigawan.”

Natawa si Khairro. “Ikaw lang ang kilala kong sekretarya na naninigaw ng boss— oh, no, there’s another one. Jergen, Lysander’s secretary.”

“Yeah. I know her.” Eliza met her a couple of times in events and gatherings. “She must be close to her boss.”

“Well,” Khairro shrugged with a smile, “Lysander is in love with her.”

“Oh.” Kapagkuwan ay nalukot ang mukha ni Eliza. “Mabuti nalang talaga hindi ako nagkagusto sa boss ko. Naiisip ko palang, nagtataasan na ang balihibo ko. Shuta .”

Khairro smiled. “That’s a good thing I guess. I don’t want to beat up a friend.”

Eliza rolled her eyes. “Green monster, begone.”

Natawa si Khairro. “Sorry. Couldn’t held it in.”

Eliza tsked. “Lahat naman yata kayong magkakaibigan ganun. I know some of your friends and damn, they’re possessive as hell! Even my brother had that sickness.”

Nagkibit-balikat si Khairro. “I agree. Ilang beses na ba akong nasuntok dahil ang seseloso ng mga kaibigan ko?” He chuckled, “but I like teasing them. I like making them jealous because that’s the only time their true feelings comes out. They’re all so secretive and wants to hide it and I hated that. If you like her, tell her. What’s the point in beating around the bush?”

Nag thumbs up so Eliza kay Khairro. “And for that Pangit, I’ll kiss you torridly later.”

Khairro let out a short laughed and put a food on Eliza’s plate. “It’s also funny to me when I touch their woman’s hand or pretend to be sweet to their woman and my friends would go ballistic. It’s funny to see their angry faces because it’s like our bonding session.”

“Bugbugan?”

“Yep.”

Napailing si Eliza. “Masaya pa kaya kapag may lalaking humawak sakin at naging sweet sakin?”

Kaagad na nawala ang ngiti ni Khairro ang nagdilim ang mukha nito na ikinatawa ni Eliza.

“You’re right.” Eliza laughed. “It is fun seeing you angry.” Eliza laughed again.

Khairro sighed. “Yeah, yeah, you got me.” He sighed again. “Pinipigilan ko lang kasi alam kong ayaw mo sa ganun pero hindi ko alam kung anong magagawa ko kung sakali man.”

Natigil sa pagtawa si Eliza saka napatitig sa kasintahan. “Hindi mangyayari ’yon dahil hindi ako basta-basta nagpapahawak sa iba at bago pa sila maging sweet, siguradong nasapak ko na sila.

That put the smile back on Khairro. “Now I feel at ease.”

Eliza smiled back and was about to say something when the doorbell on her condo rang.

“Expecting someone?” Khairro asked her.

Kaagad na umiling si Eliza. “Nope.”

The door bell rang again like the person who was ringing it was impatient.

Tumayo si Khairro. “I’ll go get it.”

“Okay.”

Sumunod lang ang tingin ni Eliza kay Khairro hanggang sa mawala ito sa paningin niya at nakalabas ng kusina.

Nang lumipas ang ilang segundo na hindi kaagad bumalik si Khairro at hindi niya ito narinig na nagsalita, tumayo siya para sundan ito.

Kapapasok palang niya sa salas, kaagad niyang nakita ang lalaking kasing kisig at kasing tangkad ni Khairro. Nakatalikod ito sa kaniya at nakaharap kay Khairro habang nag-uusap ang dalawa.

She frowned and Khairro saw her.

“Babe,” kaagad na pinakilala ni Khairro ang kausap nitong nakatalikod pa rin sa kaniya. “This is Keiran, my brother. Sorry for this. I don’t even know why he’s here.”

Keiran tsked and turned around to faced Eliza to properly introduced himself to Khairro’s girlfriend. “Hi, I’m Keiran, Khairro’s older broth—” Keiran’s words were swallowed by the air when he fully saw Khairro’s girlfriend. “You…”

Eliza was also frozen in place when she fully saw the face of Khairro’s brother, and when she recovered from her initial shock, her finger pointed at Keiran.

“You motherfucker!”

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 14

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CHAPTER 15

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CHAPTER 16

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CHAPTER 17

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CHAPTER 18

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CHAPTER 19

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CHAPTER 20

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CHAPTER 21

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

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CHAPTER 22

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 23

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 24

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 25

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 26

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 27

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 28

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 29

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 30

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 31

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 32

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 33

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 34

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 35

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 36

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 37

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 38

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 39

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 40

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 41

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 42

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 43

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 44

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 45

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 46

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 47

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 48

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 49

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 50

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 51

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 52

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 53

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 54

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 55

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 56

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 57

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 58

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 59

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 60

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

CHAPTER 61

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

EPILOGUE

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

SPECIAL CHAPTER: Let’s play

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

SPECIAL CHAPTER: Childhood

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

SPECIAL CHAPTER: Christening

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

SPECIAL CHAPTER: The Sanford’s

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

SPECIAL CHAPTER: Dad

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.

✨ CeCeLib’s 10th Anniversary Event ✨

A decade of storytelling—what a surreal feeling.

Thank you for your unwavering support and love.

Your love for my work has been my inspiration behind every story I’ve shared.

Thank you for being part of this incredible decade journey.

Here’s to many more years of stories and memories.

• C.C -

---

Celebrating 10 years of CeCeLib on Wattpad!

Time flies when the reading is good.

Ring in CeCeLib’s 10th birthday with up to 50% OFF most of her popular reads, like the Possessive Series, Mistress of Nature, Amorous Agreement and more.

Check this

reading lis

t

now!

  ![](https://img.wattpad.com/820f527f3d7b03ca1164c31aa932812389868800/68747470733a2f2f73332e616d617a6f6e6177732e636f6d2f776174747061642d6d656469612d736572766963652f53746f7279496d6167652f5f75454c336a5754584f697932673d3d2d313434363038343531342e313763663933646436646636653134663531363039303637333939312e6a7067)

FINALE: Khairro Sanford’s Sexily Ever After

The final part of Khairro Sandford’s story has been published in THE POSSESSIVE SERIES ANTHOLOGY: Nostalgia, now updating weekly on Saturday & Sundays! The Possessive 26’s sweet and tender married lives will be revealed in this nostalgic conclusion of the Possessive series.

Remember—a story is not complete without a Sexily Ever After.

Click here to read!