SYNOPSIS

SYNOPSIS

Ream Oliveros was a self-made man. A successful businessman in his own right. Everything he owned was due to his handwork and perseverance. He never deceived nor hurt anyone. He was straightforward and an honest man.

But how would a self-made honest man react once he found out that the woman he was seriously dating was married and he unknowingly became her paramour?

From an honest man to an illicit lover.

Would Ream Oliveros leave and stay honest, or would he stay and become an illicit lover?

CECELIB | C.C.

PROLOGUE

PROLOGUE

HONEYMOON was supposed to be a joyous occasion for newlyweds. It was when two people decide to become one—but not to Syl. To her, the honeymoon was a nightmare she desperately wanted to wake up from.

But she knew she was never going to wake up.

Because her nightmare was her reality.

The only silver lining was that her husband, Izaak Davidson, was out of the villa their parents rented here at one of the beautiful beaches in Bali for their honeymoon. He was out at God knows where, fucking other women—which was a godsend to Syl.

Syl didn’t care who her husband slept with as long as he kept his hands to himself. But she knew her reality was always worse; she knew that a time would come that her husband might demand her to play her role as his wife.

Kapag mangyari ’yon, anong pinagkaiba n’on sa pakikipagtalik sa isang estranghero? Siguro nga mas pipiliin pa niya ang isang estranghero na makasama keysa sa asawa niya na pinilit lang sa kaniya. At least kung estranghero man, siguradong pinili niya at desisyon niya.

At that moment, sitting on the edge of bed alone, Syl wanted to rebel and run away. She wanted nothing more than to be away from all the heavy responsibilities on her shoulders, but she couldn’t. If she ran away, the only sibling she had would be dragged back to this hellish life and she didn’t want that.

Ria already got out. She was already free and was doing what she loved.

I have to hold out. I’ve been doing this since I can remember.

Pero kahit sanay na siya sa buhay na mayroon siya, nasasakal pa rin siya. Hindi alam ni Syl kung saan ba patungo ang buhay niya. Mananatili ba siyang parang aso na sunod-sunuran lang sa mga magulang niya sa kadahilanang ‘pamilya’ sila o magri-rebelde siya tulad ng ginawa ng kakambal niya?

Their parents had always been controlling—controlling their lives as they saw fit because, as they always say, they are their parents. Like being a parent gave them the right to control every single thing in her life!

Syl wanted to breathe freely. That was why she had been doing her best in her parents’ company, to earn their trust, but she was just fooling herself. She didn’t earn anything even if she bled and vomited blood!

From a CEO to being a housewife with no means to earn for herself—that would be her life the moment she returned from this hellish honeymoon.

Combing her long hair frustratedly, she got up and entered the bathroom. Syl slightly winced when she saw her appearance in the mirror. She looked so worn out.

Sighing, she stepped into the shower and took a bath.

She may be married, but she still considered this night her last ‘free’ night. Tomorrow, they were going home, and she knew her hell would start immediately upon arrival.

Though if there were any consolation, her husband disliked her too. Well, he didn’t show it, but she could feel that he was against this marriage too. He was just trying to be polite in front of their parents, but now that it was just them, she wouldn’t be shocked if she caught him fucking someone somewhere.

With that thought, Syl’s mood became dark. If her husband was out goofing around, then she was going out too to have some fun.

Finishing her bath, Syl changed into a simple dress—not revealing, but not too modest either. Just enough to show some skin.

Fixing her hair and putting some light makeup on, she stepped out of the villa to have some fun and grieve her last day of freedom before they went home where hell was waiting for her.

Balak ni Syl na mag-party-party sa isang club sa loob ng resort para aliwin ang sarili, pero pagkapasok pa lang niya, kaagad na sumakit ang ulo niya dahil sa halo-halong amoy at sobrang lakas na tunog ng musika. Sinubukan niyang manatili sa at mag-order ng alak sa bar, pero dahil hindi siya sanay sa ganitong kapaligiran ay hindi siya nagtagal at lumabas din siya ng club kaagad.

What Syl didn’t know was that when she stepped out of the club, she already caught someone’s attention—the attention of a man who was there in Bali for business and not pleasure.

Blowing a loud breath and holding her clutch bag, Syl groaned unsophisticatedly before she took her shoes off and carried them as she walked without destination.

A few minutes later, Syl found herself on one of the recliners facing the ocean.

It was nighttime. The moon was high, and the stars twinkled in the sky. It was a perfect night to have fun and let loose, but here she was, alone and miserable. Couldn’t even have fun like she wanted to because the party scene was not for her.

Mabilis na tinuyo ni Syl ang luha ng maramdamang namalisbis ’yon sa pisngi niya. Pero kahit ilang beses niyang tuyuin ’yon, ayaw maampat ng luha niya at patuloy lang na namalisbis.

Syl wanted to shout in frustration when a handkerchief appeared in front of her.

Startled, she turned to see who it was, her eyes filled with tears and all, and she felt her world stop along with her breathing and tears when her gaze settled on the most handsome man she had ever seen. More handsome than her husband. He also had the softest eyes, face, and lips. The man had a gorgeous face that anyone would find nice and be comfortable with in an instant.

A foreigner? He looked like one.

And then, the man smiled, and Syl felt her breathing hitch. She didn’t even care if she looked like a mess because of her tears. She was just staring.

Calm down. Calm down ,

pakiusap ni Syl sa sarili habang pinipilit ang sarili na magbaba ng tingin.

Then Syl felt the man sit in the recliner beside her. Gustong-gusto niyang magtanong kung bakit ito umupi at sa katabing recliner pa niya mismo, pero hindi naman niya pag-aari ang mga recliner doon kaya itinuon na lang niya ang tingin sa karagatan.

Then from nowhere, a handkerchief appeared in front of her again and a concerned voice filled her ear.

“I don’t mind, really, but your tears ruined your makeup.”

Sa narinig, agad-agad na kinuha ni Syl sa clutch bag niya ang compact mirror saka tiningnan doon ang sarili.

Syl was embarrassed beyond belief when she realized that the man was telling the truth. She was indeed a mess. But she didn’t take the man’s handkerchief. She took a small face wipe to clean her face until she had no makeup on.

And while Syl was doing that, the man was just watching her, making her feel awkward because makeup could enhance beauty and at that moment, she had none and she looked bare and raw.

“You look prettier without your makeup on.”

Syl couldn’t help snorting because she had already heard that before. “Is that a pick-up line?”

“No. It’s a fact.” The man’s voice didn’t waver and the confidence she heard made her believe that it was indeed true.

“Thanks, I guess.”

Silence fell between the two.

“People come here for two reasons,” the man spoke again, breaking the silence. “To have a honeymoon or to have fun, but you’re crying…so I can’t tell.”

Iniwan ni Syl ang wedding ring niya sa villa dahil hindi siya komportable na isuot ’yon at pinagpapasalamat niya ’yon. She was not proud nor happy that she was married. It was the opposite.

Syl sighed. “I’m just someone trying to have fun.” Then her eyes unconsciously glanced at the man’s fingers to check if there was a ring there. And to her surprise, she actually felt relieved that they were bare. “You? Why are you here?”

The man shrugged. “Business.”

That made Syl’s eyebrow raise. “Business…?”

The man smiled and everything looked so bright all of the sudden. “Yeah. I delivered something to a friend.”

“Oh.”

Silence fell between the two again. And then, it was the man who broke it again as he offered his hand for a handshake.

“I’m Ream Oliveros,” the man introduced himself with the nicest smile Syl had ever seen. “May I know your name?”

In Syl’s mind, she knew it was a bad idea, but at that moment, she didn’t really care and just wanted the man to know her name. “Syl Descartin. Nice to meet you.”

Ramdam ni Syl ang bahagyang pagpisil ni Ream sa kamay niya nang tanggapin niya ang pakikipagkamay nito, pero maliban doon, wala na itong ibang ginawa.

“Um.” Ream had a lopsided smile as he confessed, “Would you find me creepy if I told you I followed you from the club?”

Natigilan si Syl. “You…followed me?”

Ream nodded. “Yeah. I was about to approach you, but you left.”

“The club is not my scene, I guess.”

Ream playfully narrowed his eyes at Syl. “A beautiful woman who was crying and claimed that she’s here to have fun, but confessing that the club is not her scene. Hmm…not mysterious at all.”

Syl couldn’t help but chuckle hearing Ream’s playful tone, and she retaliated as she mimicked him. “A man who suddenly appeared out of nowhere and who was here for business, offering me a handkerchief and confessing that he actually followed me here. Hmm…not creepy at all.”

Ream chuckled and laid himself on the recliner. And Syl couldn’t help watching how sexy and hot he looked in that position that she had to drag her gaze away.

She had met a lot of handsome men in her life, but Ream was on another level.

“Are you alone or did you come with friends?” Ream asked after a few seconds of silence.

“With friends,” Syl instantly lied. “But they’re busy hooking up with the guys they met earlier.”

Ream turned to look at Syl. “Want to hook up with me?”

Syl’s eyes widened hearing such a bold and uninhibited question. “What…?”

“Hook up. With me,” Ream repeated, like it was the most common thing to ask to someone they just met.

Maybe because he’s a foreigner and they have a different culture when it comes to sex?

“If you’re uncertain…” Ream got up and sat on the reclining, facing her. “We can start with a kiss.” Ream sounded so convincing that Syl was actually listening to him! “And if you find the kiss revolting, we’ll stop, I’ll apologize and we’ll just talk about anything under the…” Ream looked up at the moon and back to her again. “…Moon.”

Syl blinked at Ream, surprised. “You’re not going to leave since you didn’t get you want or throw a fuss?”

Ream shrugged. “I’m not that rude.”

Syl was actually stunned that Ream would back down and accept a ‘no’. How many times had she met a man who couldn’t accept a ‘no’ and threw a fuss? Too many to mention—one being her father, who couldn’t accept a ‘no’.

“And if I said no?”

“Then it’s a no,” Ream said suavely with a nice smile that was swaying Syl. “There’s nothing I can do if you don’t want it.”

“That’s actually a first.” Syl looked down at her lap when she remembered what happens when she says no to her father’s orders. It was pure hell to be punched and slapped by her father for saying ‘no’. Not only her father, but also all the men her parents wanted her to date. When she said ‘no’ to their advances, it always ended badly for her.

And now, here was a man who would back down if she said no. Who would not force himself on her.

“You’ll back down even if you don’t get what you wanted?” Syl couldn’t help being skeptical. Hindi sa hindi siya naniniwala, masyado lang siyang sanay sa mga kalalakihan na hindi kayang tumanggap ng sagot na ‘ayoko’ at ‘hindi’.

Ream shrugged nonchalantly and smiled. “I get to talk to you. That’s plenty.”

Syl didn’t know how to answer that one. It was sweet in a way.

“Then no, I don’t want to hook up with you,” Syl answered, testing him. To her surprise, he just laughed merrily and laid himself on the recliner again, looking at the night sky.

Syl found it intriguing and refreshing.

“So, Miss I-don’t-want-to-hook-up-with-you…” Ream trailed off in a playful tone as he glanced at her. “What are your plans tomorrow? Will you be busy?”

Umiling si Syl. “No. I’ll be going home tomorrow.”

“Oh.” Ream actually lost his playful smile at her answer before he jumped to another topic.

Syl and Ream talked about everything under the moon like what Ream said. Just sharing their ideas and opinions. Even talking about insignificant things in their life, just passing the time. Syl and Ream were enjoying each other’s company so much that they didn’t realize it was already midnight.

Namalayan lang ni Syl dahil nagpadala ng mensahe sa kaniya si Izaak, hinahanap siya at nagtatanong kung nasaan siya.

Syl’s mood became sour in an instant. All the light emotions and all the happiness she felt while talking to Ream vanished and she was filled with so much anger and bitterness.

“Is something wrong?” Ream asked, seeing how Syl’s expression changed after she put her phone back in her bag.

“Nothing.”

Ream knew it was not nothing. Maybe he had taken up so much of her time and she now had to go. As much as it pained Ream, he had to let her go and end this ‘talking under the moon’ thing. It was already past midnight.

“I’m sorry for taking so much of your time.” Ream got up and smiled at Syl. “I had fun talking to you. Have a safe trip tomorrow.”

Ream said his goodbye, but Syl didn’t want to be alone. She didn’t want to go back to the villa and face her husband the stranger. She didn’t want to see the face of the man her parents forced her to marry because of money and business.

“Hey! Want to hook up with me?”

Ream froze in his tracks and turned to Syl, stunned. “What…?” It was his turn to be shocked.

Syl got up and faced Ream while biting her lip shyly. “Want to, um, you know, sleep together?”

Ream was lost for words and only got back to his senses after a couple of seconds. “Are you sure? Because my answer is yes.”

“Yes. I’m sure.” Syl nodded with determination.

Ream offered his hand to Syl. “If you take my hand, there’s no going back—”

Syl accepted Ream’s hand.

“You’re really sure?” Ream asked again, remembering her rejection earlier.

Syl nodded. “Yes.”

“Okay. Come with me.”

Syl was silent as she followed Ream with their hands intertwined. She was secretly amazed when Ream took her to his villa—it was a villa that only wealthy individuals could afford. It was even more expensive than the honeymoon villa she was staying at.

“Come on in.” Ream opened the door to the villa.

Syl didn’t hesitate. She entered the villa and looked around. Except for the backpack on the sofa, there was nothing personal inside.

Syl bit her lower lip.

“Regretting your decision?” Ream asked as he stood in front of Syl, then he motioned his chin towards the door behind her. “You can leave if you want.”

Syl turned to the door. She knew she could leave if she changed her mind and Ream wouldn’t stop her. But she didn’t want to leave.

She faced Ream again and threw her clutch bag on the sofa. “I’m staying.”

Ream nodded slowly before he crossed the small distance between them. He was taller than her by four inches, so Syl had to look up while Ream had to look down for their eyes to meet.

And in a heartbeat, without Syl realizing, their lips met, and a tingling sensation shoots through her body, making her open her mouth and move her tongue and lips. It was a foreign sensation to Syl, but she liked it so much that she found herself wounding her arms around Ream’s neck as Ream wrapped his arm around Syl’s waist.

Ream groaned at the taste of Syl’s lips. The feeling of not wanting to let her go came over him, but he knew he needed to pull away.

With great difficulty, he finally managed to put some distance between their lips.

“How was it?” Ream asked in a whisper as he nibbled her lips. “Still not changing your mind?”

Syl nibbled his lips back. “I’m still staying.”

Ream smiled against her mouth. “That’s good to hear.” Ream licked the corner of Syl’s lips and continued kissing her softly while his hands were all over her body. “But I have to ask, and I don’t mean to be rude, but do you have experience?”

Syl stopped kissing Ream and pulled back a little, frowning. “Does it matter?”

“Yeah.” Ream caressed the side of Syl’s face, fixing her slight messy hair that was messed by the wind. “So I know if I have to be gentle or not.”

Syl’s frown deepened. “Isn’t ‘I’ll be gentle’ a scam?”

Ream chuckled, and he became even more charming in Syl’s eyes. “Not really, but sort of.”

“Then don’t say it.”

“How about instead of ‘I’ll be gentle,’ I’ll say ‘I’ll be careful not to hurt you so much’?” Ream offered as an alternative.

Syl smiled at that. “Yeah. That’s better.”

“Okay.” Ream smiled and placed a soft kiss on Syl’s lips. “I’ll be very careful not to hurt you so much.”

“Thank you.”

Ream pressed his lips on Syl’s forehead, stunning her, before he claimed her lips once again. This time, he didn’t stop nor pull away. And Syl didn’t want him to either.

Their lips mashed, their tongue danced inside each other’s mouths, and piece by piece, Syl’s clothing started dropping to the floor—from her dress to her underwear, until she was naked and sprawled on the soft mattress.

Syl knew this was wrong, she knew it would end badly for her, but at that moment, she didn’t care. Because for the first time in her life, she made a choice for herself and not someone else’s.

He

was her choice. He was herdecision. And regret it, she will not.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 1

REAM DROPPED himself on the sofa with a heavy sigh that didn’t escape his friends who were in the barn with him. Hindi na siya nagulat dahil mga tsismoso naman talaga ang mga kaibigan niya.

Lalong-lalo na si Iuhence at Calyx na siyang nasa billiard pool at naglalaro. The two might be playing billiards, but Ream would bet that their ears were growing wide while eavesdropping.

“Feel free to ask,” Ream said with a shrug.

And the lunatics really did.

“Thorn told me you said no when he invited you to go clubbing with him,” ani Cali. “Seeing someone?”

“I bet he is,” sabad ni Iuhence. “Ang rason lang naman kung bakit tayong lahat tumitigil makipaglaro sa apoy ay kung may nahanap na tayong apoy na pumaso sa ’tin at gusto nating mapaso ulit.”

Calyx frowned at Iuhence. “Damn, Vergara. That was slightly deep.”

Iuhence showed his middle finger to Calyx and smiled sarcastically.

“Whatever. It’s none of our business,” Reigo chimed in while drawing a house plan on the paper he was holding.

Lysander looked at Reigo flatly. “You’re no fun, you know that, Vasquez?”

“Well, I’m busy rebuilding my house, so fuck off.”

Andrius, who was off duty, frowned. “You destroyed your house again?”

“Yeah.”

“Hey!” Iuhence snapped, getting everyone’s attention. “Our topic is Oliveros here, not Vasquez’s bitterness. Let’s continue.”

Ream just shook his head with a smile. His friends were annoying, but amusing too. In a way. “Ano bang gusto n’yong malaman? Just ask and I’ll answer to satisfy your curiosity.”

Everyone looked at Ream flatly. Ream had always been like that—accommodating and nice, but sometimes annoying when he wanted to be. It depended on his mood.

And today, his mood was accommodating and nice .

And when Ream was accommodating and nice, the lunatics always took advantage of it.

“So, who’s the new flame?” Iuhence asked immediately.

“I have no new flame,” Ream answered honestly.

“Which is shocking,” Calyx pointed out. “So shocking because the Ream we know likes hooking up and having a flame.”

Ream shrugged. “What do you want me to say?”

“That maybe you’re in love?” Lysander offered.

Napailing si Ream sa mga kaibigan. “Yes. I want to see her again, but it’s not love.”

“Hah! So, we’re right! There is a flame!” Calyx exclaimed.

Cali threw the throw pillow at Calyx and Iuhence. “Stop being nosy motherfuckers. Oliveros already said it’s not a flame, so it’s not.”

Iuhence narrowed his eyes suspiciously at Ream. “Maybe not a flame, but I’m sure there’s a flicker.” Iuhence was a persistent motherfucker, and everyone was used to it already.

Shun, who was silent, finally spoke. “Let Oliveros be. If he’s indeed in love, I’ll be the first one to know.”

Si Shun ang takbuhan ng magkakaibigan pagdating sa impormasyon na may kinalaman sa mga babaeng kinababaliwan nila. Mahal nga lang ang bayad, pero nawawala ang pagkakuripot ng lahat pagdating sa mga babaeng gusto nila.

Ream smiled and leaned on his seat leisurely. “I’m a firm believer of ‘it it’s meant to be, we’ll meet again.’”

Shun snorted. “I can make you meet her in two minutes. Does that make me Cupid?”

Ream shook his head. “Shut up, Shun Kim. I will not pay you for anything.” Nangangako ang boses ni Ream.

Shun snorted again. “Ni-record ko ang sinabi mo, bud. Nasisiguro kong kakainin mo ’yon.”

Nagkibit-balikat lang si Ream dahil alam niyang hindi niya kakainin ang sariling salita.

“Wait,” Beckett, who was in the Jacuzzi, interjected. Isa rin kasing tsismoso si Furrer. “You said you’ll leave it to fate, but I’m curious, how many times do you have to meet a woman ‘coincidentally’ for you to consider it ‘meant to be’?”

Mabilis na sumagot si Ream ng walang pag-aalinlangan. “Three times in one month.”

Lahat napanganga kay Ream.

“Three times?!”

“In a week?!”

Tumango si Ream. “Yep.”

“And this ‘flicker’…how many times have you seen her?” Iuhence was too invested already. In short, masyadong tsismoso.

Ream shrugged. “Once in Bali.”

“This month?”

Umiling si Ream. “Five months ago.”

“And she’s still on your mind?” Cali asked.

Tumango si Ream. “Yes. Is something wrong with that?”

Everyone sighed at Ream.

“Bud, one month is enough to forget someone you don’t like or have no feelings for.” Napailing si Lysander. “Look at me! Nakalimutan ko ba? Hindi na nga ako pumapasok sa trabaho para hindi ko makita.”

Sa sinabi ni Lysander, napaisip si Ream. “Hmm…it’s been five months since I met her in Bali and she’s still indeed on my mind…” Ream frowned and looked at his friends. “Is that love?”

“That’s infatuation.” Shun answered. “Because love is when you’re terrified of the notion that you might lose the person you love. Love is when you can do and will do anything for them. Love is when you want their happiness more than anything else. Love is when you respect their decisions and support them.”

When Shun stopped giving love a definition, Reigo added his own definition, “Love is full of shit.”

The single gave Reigo a thumbs-up, while the married ones gave Shun a thumbs-up.

Napailing si Ream sa mga kaibigan. “Maybe I’m infatuated, who knows?”

Napailing si Cali. “You’re not even bothered?”

Nagkibit-balikat lang si Ream. “Why would I be? I’ve witnessed half of our friends fall in love, and it’s enough for me to realize that the emotion called love can’t be stopped. So why bother fighting it? I’ll just go with the flow if it happens.”

“Wow…” Iuhence clapped his hands. “Bigyan n’yo ng jacket si Oliveros.”

Tumatawa namang bumaling si Calyx kay Lysander. “Nakakahiya naman sa limang taong torpe nating kaibigan.”

Lysander answered Calyx with a middle finger. “Fuck off.”

Cali chuckled at Ream. “Sana hindi mo kainin ang mga sinabi mo.”

“Ako ang natatakot para sa ’yo, Oliveros,” ani Shun saka ibinalik ang atensiyon sa laptop nito.

Hindi pinansin ni Ream ang mga kaibigan saka tumingala sa kisame.

Syl…Syl Discarten.

Will they meet again? Ream hoped so. Ilang beses na siyang bumalik sa Bali, nagbabakasakaling makikita pa niya ulit si Syl, pero limang buwan na ang lumipas. Pero kahit gusto niyang makita si Syl, hindi rin naman niya alam kung ano ang gagawin.

He still remembered what he did in Bali just so he could talk to Syl—following her from the club and asking her to hook up. Ream really wanted to smack himself for doing things he hadn’t done before just to talk to a woman.

What he did bothered him, but he was more bothered that when morning came, Syl left his villa without leaving any means to contact her. She just left without him knowing.

That was a hot night, though. I want to do it again.

Ream groaned when he remembered his night with Syl, and the lower part of him stirred.

Oh, fuck. Let’s not think about it again. Clear your mind, Ream! Clear your mind!

Ream let out a loud breath and everyone looked at him.

“Want me to look for her?” Shun offered with a wicked grin.

Ream laid himself on the long sofa and declined Shun’s offer. “Nope. If she’s meant for me, then I’ll see her again without your help.”

Shun shrugged. “Your loss. But I accept donations. At dahil mayaman ka naman, mag-donate ka na lang kung ayaw mong ipahanap ’yong babaeng trip mo.”

Ream closed his eyes. “Later. I’ll send it to you.”

Shun was grinning from ear to ear as he looked at everyone. “Gayahin n’yo si Oliveros. Generous. Mag-donate rin kayo—”

Biglang nagkaniya-kaniyang alis ang mga baliw na naroon para takasan si Shun. Ang naiwan lang sa loob ay si Beckett na hindi kaagad nakaalis dahil nasa Jacuzzi, si Shun na siyang nangungutong, at si Ream na nag-donate na.

Umiling si Shun. “Mga takot talaga ang mga ’yon sa salitang donation.”

Beckett snorted. “Sinong hindi matatakot? Hari ng kutong ka.”

Ngunisi si Shun kay Beckett. “Gusto mong mag-donate?”

Kaagad na sumama ang mukha ni Beckett. “I’m taking a relaxing dip in a Jacuzzi, for Christ’s sake! Give me a break! Kinutungan mo pa lang ako last week!”

Natawa si Ream sa usapan ng dalawa at nagpatuloy sa pagtutulog-tulugan. Today was his day off and he wasn’t about to let anyone ruin his day.

AFTER RESTING IN THE BARN, Ream went to his condo to continue enjoying his day off. May bahay naman siya sa Bachelor’s Village, pero magugulo ang mga kaibigan niya na basta-basta na lang sumusulpot sa bahay niya at kung ano-ano ang mga pinaggagagawa, kaya naman mas gusto niya sa condo niya manatili.

In his condo, it was comfy and peaceful. Just the two things he wanted to rest.

But for some reason, he couldn’t rest. So he got up, went to his study table, and continued the ring he had been sketching and designing for the last five months.

He kept erasing and changing the design of the ring, he couldn’t stick to one design. Every time it was finished, he’d look at it and felt that it was incomplete. Like something was missing. So, he’d do it again and again and again, and until now, he still couldn’t make the perfect ring in his mind.

Good thing he had other jewelry designers, because if it were just him, his jewelry store might not have a ring to sell anymore.

Iyon ang unang beses na hindi siya makagawa ng singsing.

The rings he designed didn’t stay on a shelf for long. They were always on demand. Old and new clients preferred the jewelry he made.

But it had been five months now since he made a ring. He could make a necklace, bracelet, and other types of jewelry, but not a ring and it was fucking with his head already.

Ream clicked his tongue and continued sketching. But he stopped midway and just stared at his sketch.

“What the hell am I doing…?” Ream frustratedly ran his fingers through his hair and got up.

He went to the mini bar in his condo and poured himself a drink.

As he swallowed the liquor down his throat, an image of a woman panting and intertwining their hands together entered his mind. He shook the image off his head, but his mind couldn’t stop imagining it.

Her moans…her pleas…her lips…her beautiful naked body…her legs that were wrapped around his waist the whole night…and her fingers…her delicate and beautiful long fingers that touched his body all over and made him cum in more ways than one.

Ream massaged his temple and went back to his study table to sketch again.

But hours passed and nothing…he couldn’t think of anything. He was just staring at his sketchbook. Blank—no, his mind was not blank. It was filled with a face of one woman. It had been going on for five months that he was getting both used to it and sick of it.

Syl…what the hell did you do to me?

REAM’S DAYS CONTINUED like that. It had been happening for months and it was frustrating him. So, before he went crazy, he contacted his brother.

Perfect timing because Rhett just landed.

Kumatok si Ream sa pintuan ng hotel room na inuukupa ng nakababatang kapatid.

A forced small smile appeared on Ream’s lips when Rhett opened the door.

“Kuya.”

Ream peeked inside the hotel room. “I’m not disturbing you, am I?”

Rhett chuckled and shook his head, knowing what his brother meant. “I’m alone.”

Sa narinig, pumasok sa loob ng hotel room ng kapatid si Ream saka dumeretso sa sofa at pabagsak na umupo roon.

“How’s Mom?” Ream asked after his brother followed him to the living room.

Rhett shrugged and dropped himself on the single sofa too. “Happy with her fourth husband in Norway.”

Ream frowned at Rhett. “What happened to the third one?”

“She said he bored her, so she divorced him.”

“Mom is the reason why women scare me sometimes.” Ream blew out a loud breath. “Well, as long as she’s happy.”

“You know, Mom.” Rhett sighed. “Always wants to have fun.”

“And your dad?”

“Happy with his new wife. How about your dad, Kuya?”

“Busy cruising the word. Last I heard from him, he’s in the Caribbean.”

Silence fell and both sighed heavily.

Then Rhett looked at his brother. “What’s up, Kuya? You seemed bothered on the phone and seeing you now, you don’t look so good.”

Pumunta si Ream para hingin sana ang opinyon ng kapatid, pero hindi niya maibuka ang bibig para magsalita.

Bumuntonghininga si Ream. “It’s nothing. I just wanted to check up on you.”

Of course, Rhett didn’t buy it, but didn’t push it either. “Whatever you say. Want some beer?”

Kinunotan ni Ream ng noo ang kapatid. “Don’t you have work tomorrow?”

“Nope. My next flight is three days from now. I’m free. Let’s go clubbing,” aya ni Rhett.

“Not in the mood.”

“Come on.” Pamimilit ni Rhett saka nilapitan pa nito si Ream at hinila ang kamay para tumayo ito. “Come on. You owe me. I’ve been working hard and the least you could do is take me to a club and let me get laid.”

Ream groaned before he let his little brother drag him out of the hotel room.

“I’m seriously not in the mood to go clubbing.” Ream sighed, but still entered the elevator with his brother.

“Then get laid.”

“Not in the mood either.”

Rhett looked at Ream like he lost his head. “Kuya, you sure you’re okay? You don’t want to get laid? Seriously? You’re still sane?”

Ream smacked the back of Rhett’s head playfully. “Stop annoying me. I said what I said.”

“Why?” Rhett demanded.

“I don’t know.”

“Is it because of a woman?”

It took Ream a few seconds before he could deny it. “No.”

Rhett, seeing through his brother, chuckled. “So someone finally caught your attention. Who’s she?”

“Stop annoying me, Rhett.” Ream’s voice held a warning, but Rhett just laughed.

“For you to act like this, Kuya, she dumped you?” Rhett asked, laughing.

“How can a woman I just met dumped me?”

Rhett shrugged. “Women have lots of reasons to dump men, Kuya. O baka hindi ka lang talaga niya gusto.”

Ream remembered how Syl begged to take her again and again. “Nope. She liked me. Well…sort of.”

Rhett laughed again when his brother’s confidence wavered at the end. “As I said, women have lots of reasons to dump men.”

Ream glared at his brother who seemed like he was enjoying his misery. So much for asking this bastard’s advice. Better keep it to himself.

Napailing na lang si Ream nang akbayan siya ng kapatid. Magkasingtangkad lang sila at mas matanda siya, pero ang hilig-hilig umakbay ni Rhett sa kaniya na para bang mas matanda ito.

“I’m older than you. Get off.”

Ngumisi lang si Rhett saka hinila palabas ng hotel si Ream. At nang makita nitong inilabas ni Ream ang susi mula sa bulsa, kaagad nitong kinuha iyon sa kamay ni Ream saka tumatawang tumakbo patungo sa sasakyan para ito ang magmaneho.

Napailing na lang si Ream saka akmang susundan ang kapatid nang may mahagip ang mata niya.

A familiar face of a woman entering a car.

“Syl…?”

Hahakbang na sana si Ream para siguraduhing tama ang nakita niya pero umalis na ang sasakyan.

“Kuya? Come on!”

Nilingon ni Ream ang kapatid na lumabas ng sasakyan para tawagin siya. Kapagkuwan ay tumingin siya sa dereksiyon na tinahak ng sasakyan.

Was that really Syl, or am I just imagining things?

Ream blew a loud breath before rubbing his palms against his face. If that was just his imagination, then he was losing it.

Who would have thought that a woman could make me go insane? 

CECELIB | C.C .

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 2

ISANG MALAKAS na sampal ang tumama sa kaliwang pisngi ni Syl habang nakaupo siya sa pang-isahang sofa sa salas at kaharap ang mga magulang. Ang sampal na ’yon ay galing sa ama niya na galit na galit dahil hindi niya nagawa ang inutos nito sa kaniya. Pero kahit ramdam ni Syl ang sakit, nanatili siyang nakaupo at ininda ang sakit sa pisngi niya. Walang emosyon na kumawala sa mukha niya.

She was used to this. This was nothing new.

“Napaka-simple ng pinapagawa ko!” singhal ng ama niya. “Ilang buwan na kayong kasal ni Izaak pero nahihirapan ka pa ring kumuha ng pera?! Hindi ba sabi ko sa ’yo na pagsilbihan mo siya?! Kung kailangan mong lumuhod para lang paligayahin siya at makakuha ka ng pera, gawin mo! Ano sa tingin mo ang rason kung bakit ka naming pinakasal sa kaniya?” Her father clicked his tongue in annoyance. “The only good thing about you is your pretty face, Dinsyl. Other than that, you have nothing. So, go back to your house now and use that pretty face to get some money!”

“Yes, Dad,” Syl quietly replied and stood up.

Hindi pa siya tuluyang nakakalabas ng salas nang may humawak sa braso niya. Ang ina niya ’yon. And Syl knew her hell was about to continue.

“Syl, please understand your father,” anang ina sa nangungusap sa boses. “Kailangan lang talaga natin ng pera para sa kompaniya. Nag-invest kasi ang dad mo at hanggang ngayon, hindi pa bumabalik ang investment niya. Just hang in there, okay? I’m sure Izaak will give you money, especially if you ask him in bed.”

Syl wanted to vomit in disgust and shove her mother away from her, but she remained emotionless and docile. Walang magandang mangyayari kung magwawala siya. Mas mahihirapan lang siya lalo. All she needed to do was listen and get money from Izaak.

Easily said than done.

After she stole some money from Izaak a few months ago, Izaak had been suspicious of her and nasty. Syl understood why Izaak was treating her badly, but she still couldn’t help herself from hating him because he was the personification of her hell. Every time she saw Izaak, all her misery since they came back from Bali came crashing in, overwhelming her until she couldn’t breathe anymore.

‘Get money from Izaak. Seduce Izaak. Sleep with Izaak and ask for money while you’re pleasing him. Izaak is rich and we need his money. Kneel if that’s what Izaak wants.’ Hearing this again and again and again made Syl hate the name Izaak and the person who owned it.

She wanted to scream all her frustration and misery, but she had to remain prim and proper or her mother would discipline her.

“I will, Mom,” was all Syl said, and she stepped out of the house and went to hail a taxi.

Sitting at the backseat of the taxi, Syl held her tears in. No use in crying, it couldn’t change anything.

It couldn’t change the fact that she had no car, no money for herself, no means to earn money, and that she was a thief.

She was a broke and miserable housewife.

So many days she was tempted to call her sister and ask for help. But if Ria found out and came home, their parents might abuse her too. I’ll sleep better if it’s just me who’s suffering. Ria was now a successful pilot. She shouldn’t disturb her. I can still endure. It was just a slap. I can fix it with a cold compress and makeup.

Nang makarating ang taxi sa harap ng bahay na inuukupa nila ni Izaak, nagbayad siya at lumabas na. Buti may natira pa sa kakarampot niyang savings noong nagta-trabaho pa siya. Kahit papaano, may pambayad pa siya sa taxi.

Nang makapasok sa kabahayan, kaagad siyang binati ni ’Nay Koring. Tumango lang siya at dumeretso sa kuwarto nilang mag-asawa. Izaak seldom came home and stayed, so it was her room.

Opening her closet to change, Syl sighed at the clothes she had. Everything was hand-picked by her mother. She was advised to be a dainty and demure woman, because she said it was more appealing, she said it was sexier—a demure woman with a wild side could seduce Izaak easily, she said.

Syl bit her lower lip to stop her tears from falling. She sucked it in and went to the bathroom. When she stepped out, she was surprised to see her husband inside the room, but she was not surprised to see him packing. I’m sure he’s going to the island again.

Taking a deep breath, Syl readied herself and sat on the edge of the bed.

I can’t and won’t seduce him, but I can do other things. She didn’t want to be hit by her father anymore the next time she was called. She didn’t want to be slapped and talk down to again. She just needed a little break and she could lie and pretend just to get that break.

When Izaak saw his wife crying, he blew out a loud irritated breath knowing what was coming next—her annoying speech and her guilt-tripping. And he was right. When Syl opened her mouth, her annoying speech started.

“I need money, Izaak, and I won’t let you say no.” She glared at him while crying. “If you didn’t agree to this marriage, we wouldn’t be here in the first place. If you didn’t agree, I would be still working, providing for myself, but because you agreed, I was kicked out! I need money! Not allowance, but money! I’m your wife!”

Izaak gritted his teeth and threw a signed and blank cheque at Syl. “Beat yourself up.” Zipping his duffel bag, he stormed out of the room and left his wife inside.

Meanwhile, Syl dried her tears when Izaak left the room, and her eyes settled on the cheque Izaak threw on the floor.

Biting her lip and swallowing all her pride, she leaned down and picked up the cheque. She wanted nothing more than to crumple it, but she calmed herself and thought of the amount that would not bother Izaak, but would keep her parents happy for a while.

Genuine tears fell from her eyes. One by one. One tear after another until she could no longer breathe and had to breathe through the paper bag that she always kept in her bag just in case.

Alone in that cold room, Syl was on the floor, breathing deeply and heavily through the paper bag to calm down and stay breathing and alive.

GIVING THE CHEQUE to her parents, Syl felt relieved when she saw them happy. Happy parents meant no pain for her—no slaps and painful words. And that was enough to make Syl happy. It was more than enough.

“I should go,” Syl said and stood up. “I need to return to Izaak’s house.”

Her father smiled, pleased. “Yes. Take care of Izaak. Give him whatever he needs, even if you have to bend and beg.”

Syl just nodded silently and left, but when her mother followed her outside, she had a bad feeling already. And she was always right.

“Syl.”

Nilingon ni Syl ang ina. “Yes, Mom?”

“Thank you for giving money to your father.” Napakabait ng boses nito, napakalambing, pero alam na alam ni Syl ang nakakalason na ugali ng ina. “He needs it. And now, it’s my turn to ask, right?” Nang hindi sumagot si Syl, humigpit ang hawak ng ina nito sa braso nito na parang gusting baliin ’yon. “Noong huli akong bumisita sa bahay ni Izaak, maraming mamahaling kagamitan doon. There’s this beautiful vase that is surely expensive. Why don’t you sell it and buy me the luxury bag I’ve been hoping to get my hands on? Ayaw bilhin ng dad mo para sa ’kin ang bag, pero mayroon na ang kumare ko. Hindi puwedeng wala ako ng bag na ’yon kaya naman sa ’yo ko na lang hihilingin. Madali lang naman, ’di ba ’nak? Mas mahirap pa ang ipanganak ka at alagaan. I gave up my freedom for you, you know that, right, Syl? You owe me that much.”

Syl could feel a searing pain from her arm that was being gripped tightly by her mother. Seeing how her mother would react if she said no, Syl nodded. “I’ll see what I can do, Mom.”

Kaagad na ngumiti ang ina at niyakap si Syl. Syl hugged her back, but it was a forceful movement.

“Sige, Mom. Alis na ako.”

Her mother was grinning from ear to ear. “Okay. Ingat ka. By the way, ’nak, I want the bag the day after tomorrow. May pupuntahan akong party. I have to be glamorous.”

Tumango lang si Syl saka lumabas ng bahay at doon lang siya nakahinga nang matiwasay. Kapagkuwan ay kinuha niya ang wallet sa bag niya at napabuntonghininga nang makita ng ilang libo na lang ’yon at hindi niyon kayang bilhin ang bag na gusto ng ina niya.

Syl sighed. Do I have to sell Izaak’s furniture? Mapapansin ba nito? Palagi naman ’yon wala sa bahay.

Syl felt bad, but she had no time to feel bad for others. If selling that vase and buying her mother the bag she wanted would keep her arm whole and not broken, then she’d sell it.

Taking a deep breath, she left her parents’ house and waited for a taxi. Nang halos kalahating oras na siyang naghihintay pero wala pa ring dumadaan, sinubukan niyang kumuha ng taxi online, pero hindi pa rin siya kaagad nakahanap, kaya naman nag-umpisa siyang maglakad habang naghihintay ng driver na tatanggap sa booking

niya.

She could ask her parents to drive her home, but it would be too suffocating for her. She’d rather take a taxi.

Syl took a deep breath and looked up at the sky to stop her tears from falling. This is nothing. Kaya ko ’to ,

pangungumbinsi niya sa sarili habang pinipigilan ang maluha. Wala namang mangyayari kung iiyak siya. Hindi masi-resolba ng luha niya ang problema niya.

Sa mga sandaling ’yon, nasa isip niya ang tumakbo. Tumakbo ng malayong-malayo sa mga magulang niya. Pero wala siya ng lakas ng loob. Natatakot siya. Hindi dahil hindi niya kaya kundi dahil sa kaparusahan na matatanggap niya kapag nahuli siya ng mga magulang niya.

She already tried running away once. When Ria ran away, she followed her example and ran away too—to escape. But her father caught her before she could put a great distance between them and what happened next was the reason why she never tried to run away again. Even if it killed her, she was not going to run away again.

Huminga nang malalim si Syl saka pilit na inalis sa alaala ang nangyari sa nakaraan at kalmadong tumingin siya sa screen ng cellphone niya. Wala pa ring tumatanggap sa booking niya at wala pa ring taxi na bakante na dumaan.

Syl just continued walking towards the highway. It was hot, she was sweaty, but she didn’t care. She just wanted to go home and rest.

Then out of nowhere, a car pulled over beside her. Syl didn’t look nor stop, she hastened her steps until she heard a familiar soft baritone voice calling her name.

“Syl?”

Syl stopped and the car moved to catch up to her then pulled over beside her.

“Syl.”

Syl calmly turned to face the car and unconsciously stepped back when she saw who it was—a man she never expected to see ever again.

Ream Oliveros.

The window on the driver’s seat rolled down, and there he was, the first choice she made for herself, smiling nicely at her like he was happy and pleased to see her.

“I was right.” Ream’s smile widened even more, his whole face brightening in delight. “I knew it was you. How could I forget?”

A frown made its way to Ream’s face when he Syl was quiet. Different from the Syl he met in Bali—the outspoken Syl. The Syl in front of him looked afraid and wary of him.

Did I scare her by popping out of nowhere? Ream didn’t want that, but it was not his fault either! He was just driving back to his store after delivering a ring to a new big client and he saw her on the sidewalk. Just like that. Akala niya namamalikmata lang siya kaya itinigil niya ang sasakyan.

“Did I do something to scare you?” Ream couldn’t help asking.

Syl just shook her head without saying anything.

What happened to her? For some reason, he was worried. “May I drive you?” That didn’t sound right. “To your destination, I mean.”

Syl stared at Ream. His first choice was asking her, like her decision and answer mattered. Why does his question sounds so foreign to me? Was it because he was asking and waiting for my reply like it mattered?

“Do you want to have coffee with me?” Ream tried again. He just didn’t want to let Syl go. He had been looking—no, he, um , had been hoping to see her for a few months now, so to just let her go now didn’t sit well with him.

“No. I don’t want to,” Syl replied after a little while.

“Oh.” Well, Ream would be happy if the answer was ‘yes’, but a no was a no. A lot could happen in six months. “May I at least get your number?”

Syl shook her head. “No.”

Ream lips parted, stunned at Syl’s straightforward answer, but he managed to pull himself together. He was not expecting that. He thought Syl would be happy to see him, after that night they shared, but maybe it was just him making it up in his head. Maybe she didn’t enjoy it like he did.

“I’m sorry for approaching you,” Ream blurted out when he realized that maybe it was just him who enjoyed that night. She left before he woke up after all. “I’ll get going now. Take care of yourself, Syl.”

Syl nodded, but didn’t reply and just watched him drive off.

Looking at Syl through the side mirror, Ream sighed and massaged his tightening chest. He went back to Bali hoping to see her, talking about fate and coincidental meetings, but he couldn’t deny that he was looking for her. And now that he finally saw her, she didn’t want him. Plain and simple.

I guess…it’s not meant to be. Oh, fuck, I need a drink.

Ream needed a drink and Syl didn’t want to see him again, but he still parked his car near Syl with just enough distance that she wouldn’t notice.

At mula sa sasakyan niya, matiyaga siyang naghintay hanggang sa makasakay si Syl ng taxi. At nang madaanan siya ng taxi na kinalululanan ni Syl, naghintay siya ng ilang segundo hanggang sa hindi na niya matanaw ang sasakyan, saka lang niya pinausad ang sariling sasakyan at nagmaneho pabalik sa jewelry store niya.

He thought today was going to be a good day because fate finally let him met Syl, but it was the opposite. It was one of the worst days of his life. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 3

SYL KNEW SHE SHOULD feel something after seeing Ream Oliveros again, but at that moment, she felt nothing towards the man she chose to be with in Bali. Maybe because there was nothing to be happy about. So what if she saw Ream again? So what if he was still nice? She was married and if she tried anything, her parents would skin her alive.

And it was not like she had a chance of happiness with Ream. There was nothing for her but misery and Ream couldn’t save her from that. If Ream found out that she was married, he’d leave her, and it would be another pain in her life that she didn’t need. Hindi niya kailangan ng isa pang tao na magbibigay at magpaparamdam sa kaniya ng sakit. Tama na ’yong mga taong nasa palaigid niya ngayon. At least with them, she was already used to it and knew how to defend herself from them.

That was what Syl thought, but a few days later, she met Ream again at a charity ball her mother was invited to. She was not supposed to go, but her mother insisted, said she needed someone with her since her father didn’t want to go. So Syl wore the dress her mother chose for her—a dress that covered her shoulders, arms, and legs—and attended the charity ball.

And there he was. Ream Oliveros. In the flesh.

And through the night, after socializing and listening to gossip, she learned that Ream Oliveros was invited by the young CEO of Morgania Industry, Holly Morgan. And that was where Syl also learned who Ream Oliveros was. A famous jeweler. One of the most sought after in the industry, and it looked like Holly Morgan was after him.

Gustong umiwas ni Syl, pero nang mapansing gusto rin siyang iwasan ni Ream, hindi na siya nagtangka pa at tahimik na sinamahan ang ina sa charity ball. Her forced smile was plastered on her lips the whole night and her smile was starting to crack after a while. She was getting sick of it, so she excused herself, earning a subtle glare from her mother that she ignored, and went to the terrace to take a break and breathe.

Panay ang hinga nang malalim ni Syl ng may tumabi sa kaniya sa terasa.

“Tired of forcing yourself to smile?” Ream’s baritone voice filled her ear and she unconsciously stepped away from him, and it didn’t go unnoticed. “Am I that scary or do you just dislike me?”

Don’t do anything, Syl ,

pakiusap niya sa sarili. Don’t start something that will hurt you in the end. She kept her mouth shut and didn’t answer Ream.

Sensing that Syl didn’t want to talk, Ream sighed and looked at the garden below the terrace. “I looked for you when you left me that morning,” Ream confessed, because it might be the last time he saw her. “I went back to Bali hoping that I’ll see you there again, but no luck.” Ream took a deep breath and sipped from his wine glass. “I guess it’s not just a one-time thing for me like I wanted to believe. I mean, if I’m not that into you, five months is more than enough to forget you.” Ream chuckled as if something was humorous. “But here I am approaching you, knowing that you don’t like it. I’m sorry, Syl. I just can’t help it.”

Syl hardened her resolve to not do anything that would end badly for her—because everything she did for the sake of her happiness always ended badly. And she was sick of hoping that she’d find her happiness only to be crushed and stomped at the end.

I’m tired of hoping that I’ll be happy.

“Syl, I—”

“So, you’re here!” Holly exclaimed when she entered the terrace and saw Ream.

When Syl heard Holly’s voice, she immediately left the terrace and went back to her mother.

In her mind, she was rooting for Ream and Holly. The two deserved each other. Both young, wealthy, and free. Compared to Holly, she had nothing, not even a penny for herself.

“Saan ka ba nagpunta?” May gigil sa boses ng ina pero hindi lang nito pinahalata at nanatili itong nakangiti.

“Nagpahangin lang, Ma,” aniya.

Her mother rolled her eyes. “I told you not to leave my side. You saw my ‘kumare’s’ daughters, right? Prim, proper, and pretty. Hindi puwedeng matalo nila ako. Hamak na mas maganda ka naman keysa sa mga ’yon.”

Hindi na lang umalma si Syl dahil hindi naman makikinig sa kaniya ang ina.

“Syl, this party is for charity. Why don’t you donate?”

Syl couldn’t help looking at her mother in disbelief. Anong ibibigay niya? Wala siyang pera! Gusto niyang isigaw ’yon sa ina pero kinimkim niya na lang ’yon sa sarili niya. “Ma, wala akong pera.”

Her mother clicked her tongue. “Dinsyl, we can’t let these people get ahead of us. Kung wala kang pera diyan, ayos lang. Just write a cheque and put a fund on your account tomorrow. Izaak is rich. You can always ask him for money.”

Umiling si Syl. “Ma, wala talaga akong pera at ayokong—”

“Hush!” her mother hissed at her. “Write a cheque now!”

“But mom—”

“Do you want to be disciplined again, Dinsyl?”

Mabilis na umiling si Syl na may kakabit na takot. “No, Ma.”

Her mother smiled softly. “Then write a cheque.”

Syl wanted to say no, but remembering the discipline she’d endure if she did, her cold hands reached for her cheque book in her clutch bag and wrote a cheque that would bounce if she didn’t put a fund on her account tomorrow.

I have to do something. Fast!

Syl handed the cheque to the organizer, and as she turned around, her eyes unconsciously locked with Ream, who was staring at her while Holly was beside him.

He offered a smile, but Syl looked away and returned to her mother.

Seeing Syl treating him like they didn’t know each other, Ream sighed heavily, and it didn’t go unnoticed to Holly.

“Are you okay, Ream?” Holly caressed Ream’s shoulder affectionately. “Do you need something? I’ll provide it for you. Anything at all.”

Ream smiled and shook his head slightly. “I’m just not feeling well,” he lied.

“Oh my.” Holly immediately became worried. “I’ll drive you to your home.”

“No need, Holly.” Ream’s smile was polite, like his smiles towards his clients. “A friend of mine is picking me up. Excuse me for a minute.”

When Ream turned to excuse himself, Holly was annoyed that her advances were not working. Looks like I have to work my charm.

Turning his back on Holly, Ream pulled his phone from his pocket and called Sanford.

“I’m busy, you know.” ’Yon kaagad ang sinabi ni Khairro nang sagutin nito ang tawag.

Ream shook his head as he entered the terrace. “I feel so loved, Sanford.”

“Fuck off. I’m on duty.”

Ream smiled. “Could you pick me up?”

“Hell no—”

“So, does that mean you’re giving me permission to drive under the influence of alcohol?”

“Hell no!” Sanford hissed. “You, motherfucker! Subukan mo, ikukulong kita.”

Ream chuckled. “You’re the nearest friend I know, and I really need someone to pick me up since I’m not feeling well.”

Kaagad na nakuha ni Sanford ang ibig sabihin ni Ream na kaagad itong ikinatawa. Sanford was always like that, laughing at someone’s misery. Well, all his friends were. “You’re declining a woman now?”

Ream shrugged. “I’m not into her.” He turned around and from the terrace, he looked at Syl who was talking to a middle-aged woman. “I’m into someone else.”

Sanford whistled. “Damn, Oliveros. Didn’t know you were smooth like butter.”

Mahinang natawa si Ream habang nakatingin pa rin kay Syl. “How I wish I am.”

“Damn, man. You’re really into someone?” paniniguro ni Khairro.

“Why? Itsi-tsismis mo sa iba?”

Khairro chuckled and didn’t even deny it. “I need facts before I spread it to our friends, so come clean now.”

Napailing si Ream sa kaibigan. “Just pick me up. I’ll send you the address. Bye!”

Hindi na hinintay ni Ream ang sagot ni Khairro, pinatayan niya ito ng tawag dahil alam niyang susunduin naman siya nito. Though if it was Thorn he called, there was no guarantee. That asshole was a mean motherfucker.

Leaning his back on the terrace, his eyes found Syl again. She looked distraught while talking to the same middle-aged woman again. Is that her mother? Ream sighed. I should’ve asked around about her. But Ream was not inclined to do so because it felt like he was invading Syl’s privacy if he asked someone else about her. Because if she wanted him to know about her, she’d tell him, right?

Napabuntonghininga ulit si Ream. Should I ask for advice from my married friends? Zapanta was the first one to get married, and at an early age at that. Should I give him a call? Hindi nagpadalos-dalos si Ream. Inisip muna niya kung sino sa mga kaibigan niya ang pinagdaanan na ang sitwasyon niya ngayon at kung sinong kaibigan niya ang makakatulong sa kaniya.

Ream knew Zapanta met his wife through his mother’s friend, and they hit it off. Well…I’m pretty sure my mother doesn’t know Syl’s mother.

Then, Vergara kidnapped his wife— that’s illegal, so I’m not doing that.

Wolkzbin met his wife through arranged marriage. Train didn’t like it at first, but after what happened to his father, he agreed. My father is healthy as a horse and he believes in freedom when it comes to choosing life partners, so that’s not going to happen to me.

Then there’s Lander. Vienna left him and then came back after. Lander was a mess and in denial about it, but they still got together. Well, I’m not in denial, so…yeah. Not for me.

Vargaz, maybe? He was so into Etheyl that he accepted her and her child that turned out to be his in the end. What a small world, but not for me either. Ream looked at Syl’s stomach. Nothing in there and I used protection.

How about Montero? Ream was sure that Dark had a crush on his wife first before they formally met. And after his wife broke it off with her ex-fiancé, Dark swooped in and the rest was history. Well, I definitely found Syl attractive when I saw her in the bar in Bali. Hmm…okay, I’ll put Dark first on my ‘who-to-call’ list.

Then there was Stroam who had a weird and crazy wife, so he’s off his list. Shun Kim was also off his list since Ream knew what Shun would do if he called. Rather than advice, Shun would surely give him info that he had to pay for. I don’t want that. I want to know Syl personally.

And the Coleman twins. I’m pretty sure what happened to Lash will not happen to me, and I have no plans of kidnapping anyone, like what Lath and Iuhence did. Ream didn’t even know why their wives married them. They were kidnapped, for Pete’s sake.

Thinking that, Ream sent a chat to their ‘MALALAKI AT MAHAHABA GROUP CHAT’.

Ream Oliveros: @IuhenceVergara @LathColeman I thought about something. Your wives should have sued your asses for kidnapping rather than marry you two. Just saying 🤷🏻

Iuhence Vergara:

🖕🏻

Lash Coleman:

🖕🏻

Ream shrugged at the motherfuckers’ reply and continued dissecting his friends love lives in his head while comparing it to his situation.

Volkzki hated Spain and Japan, but he was now married to a half-Spanish and half-Japanese woman. Hmm…not for me either since his wife was so innocent.

That left Sudalga and Ylmaz. Not for me either. But I guess I could give them a call for random advice? Especially Sudalga. He got it hard. And Evren’s wife was feisty. Maybe he could ask Ylmaz how to handle a woman like that. Syl was not feisty, but she didn’t want to talk to him.

Ream let out a loud breath and inwardly groaned when he saw Holly follow him to the terrace. If she was not a new big client, he wouldn’t be so polite to her advances.

“Are you feeling well now?” Holly asked him.

Ream shook his head. “Not really, but I’ll be fine.”

“You can rest in my room if you want while waiting for your friend to pick you up,” Holly offered with a smile.

Ream’s eyes settled on Syl again. She was pretending to smile again. “I can’t. My friend is already on his way.”

“Oh. Well, um, do you want to have dinner sometime?”

She just doesn’t give up, huh? “My schedule is packed, so I can’t say when I will be free.”

“I can wait.”

Ream didn’t want to be rude, but he also didn’t want to give Ms. Morgan any hope that he might be interested. Facing Ms. Morgan, he gave it to her straight. “I’m actually into someone else and I want it to work with her, so I’m sorry.”

But Holly was not fazed and smiled more flirtatiously while running the tip of her fingers against his chest. “I can be your dirty little secret. She’ll never know.”

“But I’ll know and I’m not that kind of guy.” Ream carefully pushed Holly’s hand away. “I’m sorry.”

“What if I told you I won’t buy from your jewelry store anymore?” Holly became haughty, trying to use her ‘client’ card on Ream.

Ream shrugged, unaffected. “If that’s what you want, I can’t really force you.”

Holly’s face contorted in annoyance that she couldn’t get what she wanted—Ream Oliveros. “Ano bang mayroon ang babaeng gusto mo na wala ako? Is she prettier than me? Wealthier? More successful? Better in bed?”

Ream smiled and didn’t answer Holly’s provocative questions. “I’m sorry. I can’t answer that, but I can tell you that she has my whole attention and my affection, so I can’t do it with you. Excuse me.”

Ream left Holly on the terrace and entered the hall. He wanted nothing more than to approach and talk to Syl again, but knowing how vicious some women could be when they couldn’t get what they wanted, he didn’t approach Syl to keep her away from Holly. Instead, he stepped out of the house and waited for Sanford in his car.

A moment later, Ream felt like his world came alive when he saw Syl exiting the house with the middle-aged woman she was with the whole night. But his world turned dark when he saw the woman slap Syl. Hard.

“What the…”

His world turned even darker when he saw Syl raise her hands flat up to her waist, and the middle-aged woman took off her high-heeled shoe and smashed the heel on the back of Syl’s hand.

Ream flinched, but Syl didn’t even react. As if it was nothing. As if she was used to it.

Fuck! Furious at what he just witnessed, Ream stepped out from his car, but Syl and the woman already entered a white Mercedes. Before he could reach the car, it was already driving away. “Damn it!”

Ream hurriedly returned to his car, planning to follow the white Mercedes, but before he could leave the driveway, a lunatic blocked his way. It was none other than Khairro Sanford, the one he called to pick him up.

Pero wala siyang oras para kay Sanford, kaya binusinahan niya ito para umalis sa harapan ng sasakyan niya, pero ang gago, inilabas ang posas nito at nginitian siya.

Groaning, Ream stopped his car and stepped out. “Move!”

“DUI, my friend. Sorry.” And then the motherfucker just slapped the handcuffs on his wrist.

Ream was too speechless at what happened that he let Sanford put him on the passenger seat and Sanford drove. And to his surprise, Sanford drove to where the Mercedes went.

“Thanks,” ani Ream na naka-posas pa rin.

“I don’t accept thanks. Tell me I’m amazing.”

Ream was against it, but Sanford was following the Mercedes, so, “You’re amazing.”

Nagsalubong ang kilay ni Khairro. “Bakit parang labas sa ilong ang pagkakasabi mo?”

“Maybe because it is?”

Khairro clicked his tongue. “Whatever. I know I’m amazing.”

Ream didn’t comment on that and just looked ahead while remembering what he saw in the parking lot. Was that why she wouldn’t even talk to me? She’s being abused?

Ream didn’t know what he could do for Syl, but he would surely do something for her. The question was, would Syl accept it? 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 4

“SAAN KA pupunta?” tanong ni Khairro sabay pigil kay Ream na akmang lalabas ng sasakyan nang iparada iyon ni Khairro di-kalayuan sa bahay na pinasukan ng Mercedes-Benz na sinundan ng dalawa. “You realize you’re in handcuffs, right? And you’ll be trespassing?”

Ream sighed and faced Khairro. “I just saw the woman I’m into being abused and you want me to sit here? You should be arresting that middle-aged woman who slapped her!” Hindi mapigilan ni Ream ang galit na nararamdaman niya. “I saw it, Sanford. I can testify!”

Nawala ang atensiyon ni Ream kay Khairro na umiiling nang makitang bumukas ang gate ng bahay kung saan pumasok ang Mercedes-Benz na sinusundan nila, at lumabas doon si Syl.

And seeing Syl caressing her face made Ream snap.

He didn’t care if he was in handcuffs. Ang gusto lang niya sa pagkakataong ’yon ay matulungan si Syl. Pero nang makita siya ni Syl, awtomatiko itong humakbang paatras na para bang natatakot ito sa kaniya.

“Syl.” Ream’s anger doubled when he saw her swollen face. “Your face…”

Syl consciously turned her face to hide it from Ream and calmly spoke to Ream like she was okay. “What are you doing here?”

“I followed you.” Ream didn’t care if Syl was wary of him, he stepped closer to inspect her swollen face. “I swear, I had no plans to follow you around and harass you, I’m not like that. But I saw what that woman did to you in the parking lot.” After cupping Syl’s face softly, Ream turned his attention to her bruised hands. “I saw her…”

When Ream looked up to look at Syl, she looked so pale, as if scared, and she pulled her hands away from Ream.

“Naipit lang ang kamay ko sa pintuan kaya nagkapasa ako. This is nothing. You shouldn’t have come here.” Syl was embarrassed that Ream saw that part of her life, but what was done was done and all she knew was to lie. “Please go, Ream. I’m fine.”

“How could you be fine, Syl?” Ream snapped at Syl. “You’re being abused! I know you just met me and I’m practically a stranger, but I can help you—”

“No need to help me. I’m fine. This bruise is my doing,” kalmado pa ring sagot ni Syl. “This is nothing. You should leave.”

“It’s not nothing—”

“Syl? Who are you talking to?” a soft woman’s voice asked from behind the closed gate.

“Just a homeless person, Ma,” pagsisinungaling ni Syl saka para itong nagpa-panic na tinulak palayo si Ream at pabulong na nakiusap. “Please, leave. Please…” pagmamakaawa nito. “Please, Ream…”

Seeing Syl so desperate and panicking while begging, Ream stepped back, but not before putting his calling card on Syl’s palm. “If you need anything—anything at all, call me. Anytime. Anywhere. I’ll be there.”

Hearing footsteps from behind the gate, Ream backed away and ran back to his car, while Syl faced her mother who opened the gate to check on Syl.

“Syl, ilang beses ko bang sasabihin sa ’yo na huwag kang makikipag-usap sa mga pulubi?”

“Sorry, Ma.” Nagbaba ng tingin si Syl. “Ma, puwede bang dito na muna ako matulog? Gabi na kasi at delikado sa daan.”

“Of course, sweetheart.” Her mother smiled fondly. “Ikaw lang naman itong gustong-gusto na sa bahay n’yo matulog.”

Syl showed her mother a grateful smile before she went back inside. But before that, she slid Ream’s calling card in her pocket instead of throwing it away. She didn’t know why she wanted to hang onto it…maybe it was his earnest promise that he could help.

Once again, she was starting to hope.

“WHAT HAPPENED?” tanong ni Khairro kay Ream nang makabalik ito sa sasakyan. Nakita ni Khairro ang nangyari sa labas ng gate, pero nagtanong pa rin siya para mas malinawan sa nasaksihan.

“She said she’s fine.” Ream looked lost and bothered while blankly looking at the air. “But she’s not, Sanford. She’s not fine! Her face is swollen, and her hands are bruised, she was hell-bent on making me believe that it was her doing!”

Khairro kept his mouth shut and just let Ream let out his anger and frustration.

“I offered help, but she didn’t want it. Why?” Ream couldn’t grasp why Syl pushed him away. “I can help…”

“Some abused victims are so used to being abused that they think it’s normal when it’s not.” Khairro finally gave it straight to Ream that made Ream snap his eyes to Sanford. “It’s the ugly truth, bud. Especially here in our country. Abuse victims tend to keep the pain and suffering to themselves because they believe that no one can and will help them. And sometimes, it’s not about that at all, it’s more about their fear—fear that if they tried to get help, they’ll be hurt even more.

“Most people always think that ’ it’s a family matter, I shouldn’t intervene’ so some neighbors and other people usually just let the abuse happen without doing anything, even if they were witnessing it with their own eyes. But abuse is not just a family matter. It’s a crime.”

“What can I do then? You can’t exactly arrest them now since Syl was adamant on making me believe that she’s fine and that her bruises were her own doing. I’m sure that’s what she’ll tell you too if you barged in there.”

Hindi ito ang unang beses para kay Khairro na makatagpo ng biktima na pino-protektahan ang mga umaabuso rito lalo na kapag pamilya ang mga ito.

“Oliveros, in my line of work, I’ve seen the bad and the worst, and trust me, these victims of abuse—with what they’re going through, what they need is someone to rely on, someone they could depend on, someone they could talk to, someone they could trust, someone who understands them, someone who will be there for them and not abandon them when they need them the most, someone who could educate them that what they’re going through is not normal nor right and it’s not their fault, and also someone that could encourage them to be brave to face their fears. It’s not enough just to be nice, but it’s a good start. It’s a long process of healing, my friend. It’s not that easy.”

Ream became speechless.

“And seeing the woman push you away like she was scared…” Khairro sighed. He didn’t want to say it, but if Ream was serious about that woman, he should know. “I think this has been going on for a while now. I can’t tell how long, but enough to instill fear in her heart.”

Ream felt depleted and defeated. “She was scared…” he muttered as he remembered Syl’s face while begging him to leave. “I felt her fear…” Ream turned to Khairro. “Wala ba talaga akong magagawa para sa kaniya? I don’t care if she doesn’t like me back, it doesn’t matter, I just want her safe and happy. That’s all I want.”

“Even I can’t do anything and I’m a police officer.” Khairro sighed. “For us to be able to help her, she needs to want our help.”

Ream became silent before he sighed and spoke. “I gave her my number…do you think she’ll call?”

Khairro shrugged. “Pray that she will.”

“Yeah. I’ll do that.” Ream took a deep breath. “Drive me to the nearest church. I’ll pray there.”

Mahinang natawa si Khairro pero pinausad pa rin nito ang sasakyan at pinagmaneho si Ream patungo sa pinakamalapit na simbahan.

GOD DIDN’T ANSWER Ream’s prayer. Syl didn’t text nor call. He also stopped meeting her coincidentally. He passed by her house a couple of times, hoping that he’d see Syl outside, but no luck. His worries remained, but he couldn’t do anything about it. Syl didn’t like him. She made it clear, so to have this unrequited affection…he didn’t know what to do with it.

Ilang beses na niyang naisip na tawagan si Shun para ipahanap si Syl, pero palagi niyang napipigilan ang sarili dahil wala namang magbabago kung mahahanap nito si Syl, at nasisiguro niyang mahahanap nito ang dalaga.

Ayaw sa kaniya ni Syl at ayaw niyang ipilit ang sarili rito. Should I move on? But how does someone move on from these feelings? This was his first time feeling like this towards a woman. He had no idea how to move on.

Ream knew he needed help, so he called the first name from his ‘who-to-call’ list.

Dark Montero.

“I’m with my wife so this better be important.” Iyon kaagad ang lumabas sa bibig ni Dark nang sagutin ang tawag ni Ream.

“Sorry to bother you.” Ream sighed. “I can call later.”

Kaagad na naramdaman ni Dark na nasa hindi maayos na kalagayan si Ream nang marinig ang boses nito. “You okay, bud?”

“…I don’t know.”

Dark frowned. “You’re not hurt, are you?”

“What…?”

“Hurt,” ulit ni Dark saka hinalikan nito sa noo ang asawang si Anniza bago lumabas ng kusina para kausapin nang maayos si Ream. “You know, hurt like physically or mentally?”

“No, not really.” Ream, on the other line, touched his chest where his heart was. “…But, I’m not doing well emotionally, Montero.”

“What happened?” mabilis na tanong ni Dark. “Is this because of Syl?”

Ream stilled and frowned. “How did you—”

“I read the chat, Oliveros.” Dark explained. “Nakalimutan mo na bang mga tsismoso ang mga kaibigan natin?”

“Oh.”

“Yep. Sanford said that this Syl doesn’t like you and you are sulking.”

“’Yon lang ang sinabi niya?”

“Yep. Is there more?”

“No.” Ream silently thanked Sanford for not telling their friends about Syl being abused. “I just…I called because I want to ask something.”

“Sure. Fire away.”

“How do you move on?”

Natigilan si Dark sa tanong ni Ream kapagkuwan ay nagsalubong ang kilay nito. “Move on? Like, you want to let go and forget about her?”

“Yeah.”

“Why? I mean, you’re not going to woo her, at least?”

Humilig si Ream sa likod ng upuan niya habang nakatingin sa hindi matapos-tapos na singsing na ini-sketch niya. “Montero, if you persistently woo a woman who likes you, it’s called romantic. But if you persistently woo a woman who doesn’t like you, it’s called stalking, and, in my case…it’s going to be stalking. My presence makes Syl uncomfortable, I could see that, so yeah, I have to move on from these feelings. But I don’t know how so, help I need your help.”

Napangiwi si Dark sa hinihinging tulong ng kaibigan. “Oliveros, you do know that I had feelings for my wife before she formally met me, right?”

“Yeah. So?”

“It means I don’t know how to move on, and I can’t help you.”

Ream blew out a loud breath. “Do you know someone who can?”

“Definitely not one of those lunatics,” said Dark, then he clicked his tongue. “Maybe Google can help you.”

Ream grimaced and spoke with sarcasm. “Geez, thanks, Montero. Such a big help.”

Dark chuckled before he became serious. “I think everyone has their own way of moving on, bud. You just have to find yours.”

“And if I can’t?”

“You’ll go crazy.”

Ream sighed heavily and cancelled the call after bidding goodbye. Dark was right, though. Wala akong aasahan sa mga kaibigan ko. Kung tsismis siguro, may aasahan pa siya.

So, Ream turned to Dark’s second suggestion.

Google.

‘Hot to move on from someone you like?’ was the question he typed. And seeing the results, he could only groan because every article had something to do with moving on from an ex. But Syl is not my ex.

So, he changed the question to ‘how to get over someone you never dated?’ Ream wanted to smack himself at how humorous this situation was.

Taking a deep breath, he opened the first article, and the first advice was to stop flirting. And that made Ream frown. Stop flirting? Really? I haven’t even done that. Ream dragged his eyes to the second advice. Stop fantasizing. Ream combed his hair with his fingers. Does remembering what happened in Bali count? Oh, fuck!

Third advice. Stop reading the texts. Ream blinked blankly at the article. “She never texted me. Not even once, you son of a bitch!” Angrily, he closed his laptop and went to the mini bar to pour himself a drink.

Yep. That’s what I need. A fucking drink.

Why was this happening to him, anyway? He tried his best to be a good man. He never cheated anyone. He always tried his best to be honest as he possibly can. So why was this happening?

Blowing out a loud breath, instead of pouring himself a drink, he drank straight from the bottle. Bottoms up. And then, he grabbed another bottle of liquor and finished it too. Alone.

Ream lost count of how many bottles of liquor he consumed, but he didn’t lose count of how much he vomited when morning came. It was horrible. He was in a horrible state. But that was not the most horrible part—it came after the vomiting.

His friends, the gossipers, arrived at his front door with food and medicine to cure his hangover.

It was a nice gesture and all, but when they reached his kitchen, the gossiper motherfuckers, started, well, um, gossiping.

“Damn, man. You were so out of it last night.”

Napatigil si Ream sa paghigop ng sabaw nang marinig ang sinabi ni Calyx.

“Yep.” Thorn laughed. “I had a good laugh.”

Lysander was laughing too. “Damn, Oliveros. You are in deep trouble, man.”

“You should have accepted my offer,” Shun chimed in.

“You said it’s illegal, but in your situation, kidnapping is the only option, my man,” Lath added.

And Iuhence nodded. “I’m not saying it’s not bad, but if you’re desperate…”

Ream was confused and he frowned at everyone in the kitchen. “What are you all talking about?”

Controlling his laughter, Calyx handed his phone at Ream as he explained, “You drunk-video-called our group chat last night and I was awake, so I answered, and this is what you said. I’m sorry, bud. If it were you, you would’ve recorded it too.”

Ream had a bad feeling about the ‘video’, but he still played it and it was the most embarrassing thing he ever did in his whole life!

‘Answer me, you bastards!’ the drunk Ream in the video shouted and glared. ‘Why doesn’t she like me, huh? I’m nice and handsome and rich and I can give her anything she wants, so why doesn’t she like me?! Answer me!’ Calyx and Yilmaz were in the call, but they didn’t answer. The two were busy laughing their asses of. ‘I told her I like her, but she didn’t even say anything, like I don’t exist.’ The drunk Ream changed from angry to pitiful in a second. ‘Is there…something wrong with me that she finds unattractive? But we had a good time in Bali. Guys, I want to move on, but I don’t know how. What is this feeling? I don’t want this! But I want her. I really, really want her.’ The drunk Ream paused and looked down. ‘Why can’t I have her?’

The video finally and thankfully ended, leaving the now sober and beet red Ream distressed and mortified beyond belief.

“Holy fuck…” Ream muttered under his breath as he let Calyx’s phone drop on the floor. It crashed and broke, but Ream didn’t care. He just wanted to hide himself because he knew these motherfucking lunatics would not let him hear the end of it.

And just thinking about it—he was already beyond horrified.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 5

REAM LOOKED AT his friends who decided to stay in his condo when he clearly didn’t want them to stay. It was morning and they were all huddled in his living room with empty liquor bottles around them. Kahit anong pagpapalayas niya sa mga kaibigan niya, ayaw ng mga ito umalis.

“Seriously.” Ream sighed. “It’s morning. My head is still ringing. I’m drinking no more.”

“Just drink, Oliveros,” ani Lysander. “Hindi ka namin nasamahan kagabi sa paglalasing mo kaya ngayon na lang.”

Nagsalubong ang kilay ni Ream. “But I’m good now, really. Makakaalis na kayo.”

“We’re good too, so let’s drink,” ani Shun sabay inom ng beer mula sa bote. “Bilhan ka na lang naming mamaya ng pang-paalis ng hangover kapag nalasing ka ulit.”

Napailing na lang si Ream. “Wala ba kayong mga trabaho? It’s a weekday, people. Time to work.”

The lunatics in the living room just shrugged and continued drinking. Napailing na lang ulit si Ream dahil alam niyang hindi aalis ang mga baliw niyang kaibigan.

“So…” Calyx opened another bottle of beer and looked at Ream. “What happened to you last night? Come on.” He grinned. “Let it all out. We will be your therapists today.”

Siyempre, hindi magpapatalo si Iuhence. “Ayon sa tsismis na nasagap naming mula kay Dark, emosyonal na tumawag ka sa kaniya kagabi—”

Binato ni Thorn ng throw pillow si Iuhence. “Cut it out. Para kang tsismoso na nagbabalita. I mean, tsismoso ka naman talaga pero hindi maganda pakinggan.”

Iuhence cleared his throat. “Okay. Take two. Ayon sa tsismis na sapilitang nalakap naming mula kay Montero, naglasing si Ream dahil kay Syl.”

Bumuntonghininga si Ream sa kabaliwan na naman ng mga tsismoso. “Seriously, if you want to know something, just ask.”

Iuhence grinned. “Great! My question is, are you broken-hearted, bud? You got drunk, after all.”

“I honestly don’t know what I’m feeling right now and what to do with it. I’m moving on, so…”

“Moving on?” Calyx frowned and looked at everyone. “Puwede pa lang mag-move on kahit hindi naging kayo?”

Ream showed his middle finger to Calyx. “I have feelings too, you motherfucker. Unlike you, idiots, I’m not going to force myself on her. I’m into her and I want her so much, but if her happiness means me stepping back, then so be it.”

Lath chimed in. “Hindi mo liligawan? Women like it when they’re being pursued.”

“Not all of them.” Sumandal si Ream sa likod ng sofa na kinauupuan. “It’s like this, lunatics, if the woman is into you, she’ll like it. But if she’s not, then it’s stalking. Hindi man sa ’kin sinabi ni Syl na ayaw niya sa ’kin, ramdam ko, okay? So, I’ll move on, maybe visit my mom in Norway, or whatever. I have to get away.”

“May mga babaeng mahilig magpakipot,” wika ni Shun. “Baka isa siya do’n?”

Umiling si Ream. “I don’t think so. She’s just not interested. I can tell.”

“So, you’re just going to leave?” Lysander asked, frowning like he couldn’t understand Ream at all. “Just like that? You’re not going to make an effort for her to see you? To like you?”

“Callahan, I understand what a ‘no’ means and she said ‘no’. I gave her my number as a last resort, but nothing.” Ream blew out a loud breath.

“Baka naman nag-iisip pa siya.” Ayaw talaga siyang tantanan ng mga kaibigan, lalo na si Vergara. “Maybe you have to wait for a little while or be persistent, maybe?”

Umiling si Ream saka bumuntonghininga. “I’m not like you, guys. A no is no to me. And if she wants to call, she’ll call, and I’ll be there for her. But I’m not going to force myself on her when she clearly doesn’t want me.”

“But you’re leaving for Norway,” sabad ni Thorn. “Anong gagawin mo kapag tumawag siya habang nasa ibang bansa ka? A call from her means a chance for you, right?”

Ream let out a heavy sigh and picked up a bottle of beer, drinking it before he answered, “I’ll come home and be there for her.”

Thorn’s eyebrows furrowed. “That’s not exactly moving on, bud.”

Ream shrugged. “I have to get away somehow.” He remembered the woman who hurt Syl, and his blood boiled. “Baka may magawa akong hindi maganda kapag nanatili ako rito.”

Everyone looked at Ream and everyone knew this was not just about Syl. There was more, but no one asked, not even Calyx or Iuhence. They kept their mouths shut and changed the subject.

“How’s business going?” Lysander asked and Ream chuckled.

“Really?” Ream shook his head at the sudden change of topic. “Business is good. How about all of you?”

Everyone shrugged a little and that meant their businesses were doing good as well. And then they continued drinking like it was not early in the morning. When afternoon came, everyone who visited Ream was drunk from too much beer.

“Why the fuck am I drunk?” Calyx grumbled when he got up to pee and his world started spinning. “Wait…am I drunk, or is there an earthquake?”

“Maybe because we didn’t eat,” Lath offered as an explanation. “Ah, my twin’s going to kill me for not working today.”

Iuhence groaned as well while trying to get up, but his ass kept falling back to the ground. “Tyron! Stop pulling me down, you asshole!”

Ream, the only sober in the group because he didn’t drink too much, frowned at Iuhence. “Vergara, Zapanta is not even here.”

Iuhence glared at Ream. “Anong wala?!” Tinuro nito si Thorn na nakahiga sa sahig katabi ng bote ng alak na wala nang laman. “That’s him, idiot. Nagtutulog-tulugan lang ’yan kasi ayaw niyang mamigay ng beefsteak.”

“Huh…?” Ream was confused as fuck. Hindi niya alam kung anong pinagsasasabi ni Iuhence nang maalala niyang lasing pala ito. Napailing si Ream at sinagot si Iuhence. “Padadalhan ka na lang daw ng beefsteak ni Zapanta.”

That put a smile on drunk Iuhence and he finally let himself fall to the ground and sleep.

Habang tinitingnan isa-isa ang mga kaibigan niyang lasing na may kaniya-kaniyang kabaliwang ginagawa at walang saysay ang mga pinagsasasabi, kinuha ni Ream ang cellphone at kinunan ang mga baliw ng video.

Calyx was still trying to get up while complaining about his imaginary earthquake. Thorn was sprawled on the floor, hugging the empty bottles with a smile. Lysander was on his phone, crying about something while looking at his own picture. Shun was sleeping on the sofa while hugging his laptop and wallet, while Lath was trying to call his twin brother, Lash, but he was actually talking to Siri.

Karma’s a bitch, motherfuckers.

After taking a video of his drunk friends, Ream went to his room to take a bath. Pagkalabas niya, kaagad siyang nagbihis saka tinagawa ang restaurant na pag-aari ng asawa ni Dark at nag-order ng pagkain para sa mga kaibigan niyang lasing.

Tinagawan ni Ream ang kaibigan pagkatapos um-order sa restaurant ng asawa nito. “Hey, Montero, I ordered food from your wife’s restaurant. Can you, um, deliver it personally?”

Dark frowned. “Something’s up?”

“Some idiots visited me this morning.” Ream massaged his forehead and sighed. “They’re drunk and they’ll need food when they wake up since we didn’t eat any.”

Dark sighed audibly. “Mga baliw talaga. Fine. I’ll deliver the food.”

“Thanks! I’ll leave my keycard and your name at the front desk.” Mapagkakatiwalaan naman ang mga nagta-trabaho sa front desk at hindi ’yon ang unang beses na iniwan niya ang keycard niya. “Just show your I.D.”

“Wait…you’re leaving?” Dark dried his wet hands from washing the dishes. “Akala ko hindi ka pa kumakain?”

“I have to visit my store,” sagot ni Ream habang nagsusuot ng sapatos. “I’m leaving for Norway soon, so I have to make sure that everything is okay.”

“Oh. Because of Syl?”

Ream smiled. “Yep.”

Dark sighed audibly again. “Man, you have a complicated love life.”

Ream grimaced. “Bud, you can’t call a one-sided affection a love life.” Then he bade him goodbye and ended the call.

Stepping out from his condo, he went down to the ground floor and left his keycard with Genna. She was a distant relative of his that he helped after her husband left with his mistress.

“Thanks, Genna!”

“Ingat!”

Nang makaalis si Ream, kaagad na bumulong ang receptionist na katabi ni Genna. “Ang guwapo-guwapo talaga ni Sir Ream, tapos ang bait pa. Ang suwerte ng babaeng makakasilo sa kaniya.”

Tumango si Genna sabay ngiti. “Mabait talaga ’yang pinsan ko. Sa lahat ng kamag-anak ko, siya lang ang tumulong sa ’kin kahit malayo kaming magkamag-anak. Ilang taon na rin mula noong iniwan ako ng gago kong asawa at hanggang ngayon, tinutulungan pa rin niya ako sa mga anak ko kahit ang dami na niyang nagawa para sa amin.”

The receptionist beside Genna sighed dreamily. “Ang suwerte talaga ng babaeng mamahalin si Sir Ream.”

Tumango si Genna bilang pagsang-ayon. “Sobrang suwerte.”

LEAVING HIS CAR at the parking lot reserved only for him, he entered his store and smiled seeing that it was packed. “Nasaan si Carlo?” tanong ni Ream kay Jenny na siyang tumatao sa cashier.

“Si Manager?” Luminga-linga si Jenny. “Mukhang may inaasikaso yatang costumer doon sa VIP room, Sir Ream. Medyo madaming tao ngayon kaya all hands on deck kami, Sir.”

Tumango-tango si Ream. “If the store needs more people, let’s hire.”

“Naku, Sir, no need,” pigil ni Jenny sa may-ari ng jewelry store. “Malapit na kasi ang buwan ng Hunyo kaya maraming costumer. Siguradong kaya namin ’to, Sir. Huwag ho kayong mag-alala.”

“You sure?”

“Yes, sir.”

Ream smiled and patted his cashier’s shoulder. “Okay. Keep up the good work. Jenny. I’ll go look for Carlo.”

Tumango si Jenny saka ibinalik ang atensiyon sa magkapareha na nasa harapan nito at handa nang magbayad.

Samantala, si Ream naman ay tinahak ang daan patungo sa dalawang VIP room. The two rooms in the store were actually a showroom for VIP clients and he found Carlo in the first room entertaining two women.

Ream didn’t want to disturb Carlo, he just wanted to inform the manager that he needed to talk to him later, but his eyes were caught by one of the women inside the room.

Syl.

Does fate really want to pair me with Syl so bad? This was their fourth coincidental meeting.

And it looked like Syl felt his stare, because she looked up from examining the diamonds in front of her and their eyes met.

For the first time since they started meeting, coincidentally, Syl didn’t flinch nor look away. She stared back at him like she was recognizing his existence. Syl only looked away when the woman beside her made an excited noise and Ream felt like his blood was boiling when he saw that it was the same woman who hurt Syl.

“Oh! I want this one, Syl!” The woman’s eyes sparkled with happiness while Syl looked like the world was on her shoulders even though she was smiling. “Buy it for me.” Then the woman looked at Carlo. “Do you have a set of earrings that would go with the ring?”

Ream saw how Syl’s face paled, and seeing the panic in the depths of her eyes, Ream stepped in. He couldn’t just stand on the sidelines. Hindi niya alam kung bakit gano’n ang reaksiyon ni Syl, pero nasisiguro niyang kung ano man ang rason nito hindi ’yon maganda.

“Carlo,” kuha ni Ream sa atensiyon ng manager na kaagad na tumayo nang makita siya. “I’ll take it from here. Go help Jenny at the cashier.”

“Yes, sir,” ani Carlo saka kaagad na umalis para sundin ang utos ng boss nito.

After Carlo left, Ream faced the two women and introduced himself. “I’m Ream Oliveros, the owner. How may I help you, madam?” A smile was plastered on his face even though he hated the middle-aged woman in front of him.

“Oh, the owner himself?” The woman looked pleased that the owner himself was the one entertaining her. “I’m flattered.”

Ream just smiled before glancing at Syl who was just silently sitting beside the woman.

“I want earrings that would go with this ring,” anang ginang saka ngumiti. “My daughter here is buying this for me. Aren’t I lucky?”

So they’re mother and daughter. Ream’s smile widened even though all he wanted to do was tell the woman to leave. “Very lucky, madam, but unfortunately, we don’t have a set of earrings that would go with the ring.”

Observing Syl from the corner of his eye, she looked relieved after hearing his answer. That means she didn’t want to buy anything, but she’s being forced by her mother. What kind of mother does she have?

“Then I want to order earrings that would go with this ring.” Syl’s mother was persistent, alright.

Ream’s mind immediately went to work. Kapag hindi niya tinanggap ang order ng ina ni Syl, siguradong bibili pa rin naman ito sa ibang jewelry store at baka mas mataas pa ang presyo na ibigay, pero kung tatanggapin niya ang order nito, puwede niyang pahabain ang paghihintay ng ina nito at puwede pa niyang bigyang si Syl ng free cancelation offer kapag nagbago ang isip ng ina nito. Yeah. It’s better than not helping Syl at all.

“Of course, madam,” Ream answered with a smile. “Unfortunately, you have to wait for four to six months because we are fully booked at the moment.” His perks of being the owner—he can lie without being questioned. “But the advantage is you don’t have to pay now. Payment will be asked after the completion of the order. Would that be okay, madam?”

“Of course!” Syl’s mother exclaimed. “I can wait patiently.” Just the thought that she was talking to the owner himself made Delilah feel somewhat a special VIP costumer.

“Thank you so much. We appreciate your patience, madam.” Then, Ream stood up to get the order form and pen placed on the table at the corner of the room and handed it to Syl’s mother. “Please fill in this order form and we’ll be finished.”

Tinanggap ng ina ni Syl ang order form at sinagot lahat ng kailangang sagutan. Nang ibabalik na iyon ng ginang kay Ream, nagsalita si Syl.

“Ma, let me put my number just in case the store needs it.”

“Of course, sweetheart.”

Syl’s mother was so sweet to Syl that she might have deceived Ream too, if he didn’t see what she did to Syl at the parking lot.

After writing her number on the order form, Syl handed the form and pen back to Ream.

“…And that’s it.” Ream smile didn’t leave his lips. “We will call you once your order is ready for pick-up.”

“Thank you so much, Mr. Oliveros.” Tumayo na ang ginang at nilingon nito si Syl na hindi pa tumatayo mula sa pagkakaupo. “Sweetheart? Come on, let’s go.”

Syl stood up, but not to leave. “Ma, I want to settle the payment for your earrings now. Can you wait for me in the car? I’m sure it’ll be quick.”

Delilah looked at Ream, as if asking if it would really be quick, and Ream nodded.

“You’re a VIP, madam. Of course, we’ll make it fast.”

Delilah smiled, pleased. “Okay, sweetheart. I’ll wait for you in the car.”

Ream immediately lost his smile when Syl’s mother stepped out of the showcase room. And for some reason, he felt drained and disgusted that he had to put up with such person.

“Thank you,” ani Syl na ikinatingin ni Ream dito.

“For what?”

“For the earrings…” Umupo ulit si Syl. “For giving me more time to ready the payment.”

Ream sat on the sofa in front of Syl. Alam ni Syl na maraming katanungan si Ream, nakikita niya iyon sa mga mata nito. Lalo na ang may kinalaman sa nakita nito sa parking lot.

But to her surprise, Ream’s question was different from what she was expecting.

“How are you, Syl?”

How long had it been since someone asked her that earnestly? As if her answer mattered? “I’m…” Syl wanted to say she was fine, but her tears just fell as if telling the man in front of her that she was not fine. Not fine at all.

Seeing Syl in such a state, Ream stood up and went to sit beside Syl. He offered her his handkerchief and just let Syl cry to her heart’s content while he stayed beside her silently until she calmed down.

“Feeling better?” Ream asked Syl while helping her wipe her tears and dry her damp cheeks.

Syl nodded as she took deep breaths.

After a while, Syl commented, “It’s very peaceful here.”

“You can visit anytime.”

Syl chuckled. “I don’t have the money to spare.”

“Then why did you buy earrings for your mom?”

Syl became silent.

“Dahil ba sasaktan ka niya ulit kapag hindi mo siya binilhan?”

Nanatiling tahimik si Syl.

Bumuntonghininga si Ream. “Syl, my offer still stands and will always stand. You don’t have to like me back or do anything for me. Just, remember me if you need someone or something. I swear I’m not going to take advantage of you—”

“I know,” Syl said in a whisper. “You have always been nice and kind. Always making me feel that my decision and my answer matter. Maybe that’s why I like you and I chose to be with you that night in Bali, but…” Syl turned to Ream with her teary eyes, “I can’t drag you to my mess. I know you mean well, Ream. I know you mean no harm, but you don’t know my family. What you saw in the parking lot, it’s nothing compared to what they’ll do to me if I rebel. So, I’m sorry that I can’t accept your help. I don’t want to accept it because I don’t want to hurt the only choice I made for myself. You’re a good guy, Ream. Maybe in different circumstances I would willingly run to you, hug you tight, and kiss you hard, but where I am now is not a good place.”

“I can get you out of that place, Syl. Just trust me…”

“Trust…” Umiling si Syl. “…Is something I can’t give so easily, Ream. I’m sorry. Maybe it’s selfish of me, but I just want to preserve the good memory we had in Bali. I enjoyed it. So much. And because of that, I don’t want the person I chose for the first time to hurt me or leave me, because that’s what will happen if I give in and run to you right now. You will leave me, Ream, because you’re a good man.”

Walang nagawa si Ream nang tumayo si Syl at lumabas ng kuwarto dala-dala ang panyo niya. Hindi sa wala siyang nagawa, kundi wala siyang ginawa dahil kitang-kita niya kung gaano ito nahihirapan at nasasaktan.

Dadagdag pa ba siya?

Ream looked up at the ceiling and closed his eyes. He was trying to wrap his head around Syl’s words to understand her and to know where she was coming from.

Why does she sound so certain that I’ll leave her? Ream felt that there was more to this than just her parents. There was more to Syl than her fears and tears. 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 6

REAM SIPPED his wine while standing at the terrace of his mother and her new husband’s small vacation house in Hammerfest, Norway. The terrace was overlooking the harbor and half of the island, presenting him the beautiful sunset at—Ream looked at his watch. Eleven PM, close to twelve—midnight.

Yes. He was looking at the sun, at midnight.

Well, this was summer in Hammerfest, Norway. Famous for its midnight sun.

“Son.” Sinamahan siya ng ina sa terasa saka naglalambing na yumakap ito sa braso niya. “You’re alone and looking lonely again. You have been like this since you arrived few months ago. I didn’t ask because I want to give you space, but I’m getting worried, Ream. What’s happening with you? Care to tell Mom?”

Ream smiled because he knew how much his mother endured just to give him the space he needed. “I don’t think it’s working, Ma.”

“Working, what?”

Ream stared at the midnight sun. “Honestly, I came here to move on.”

“Oh.” That piqued Rowena’s interest. “Why is it not working?”

“Because I’m far away from her, but she’s still on my mind.” Ream sighed and sipped his wine again. “I want to go home and see her, but I think it’ll be better for the two of us to not meet again.” Seeking advice from his mother, he told her what Syl told him the last time they met at his store. “I need help, Ma. What do I do? This is my first time feeling this way. I don’t know what to do with these feelings, at the same time, I don’t want to be reckless and hurt her.”

Rowena sighed at his son’s bothered expression. “Maybe I’m biased because you’re my son, but based on what she said to you, she likes you.”

“But she said she’s not in a good place and she doesn’t want to drag me into her mess. And I have to respect that.”

“And that’s what’s worrying you.” Rowena knew her son better than anyone. She could tell what was bothering him the moment he told her about the woman he liked. “You know, son…” Rowena turned her son’s body to face her, and she cupped his face. “You have always been nice, kind, and respectful. They’re good traits, really, but that attitude of yours sometimes gets excessive. You knew that she was not in a good place, but you let her be because you respected her decision, yes?”

Ream nodded. “She was in pain, and I don’t want to add to her burden.”

“But didn’t it occur to you that maybe, contrary to what she told you, she actually wanted to leave that place?”

Ream was lost for words. “…What?”

Rowena sighed, seeing the lost expression on her son’s face. “You don’t have to tell me the details, but I can guess that she’s in a bad situation right now. Because what she told you, the ‘I don’t want to drag you to my mess’ were the same words I told my third ex-husband when my second ex-husband was abusing me. I was so scared that he would hurt Theo, so I pushed Theo away. But deep inside, I wanted Theo to just grab me and pull me out of my misery, which Theo did.” Rowena smiled at the memory. “That’s why I divorced him when things started to change between us. Theo was the sweetest man I have ever met, and I don’t want to hurt him. And it was a good decision, hence my friendship with Theo even after our divorce.”

Ream finished his wine and looked at his mom. “Do you really think she needs me?”

Rowena shrugged; she didn’t want to give her son too much hope. “I’m not sure, but you should go home and try talking to her again. Give it three tries with double the effort, and if she still rejects you, then maybe, it is better to let her go.”

“Why three times?”

“Why not?” Rowena smiled at her son. “Third time’s a charm.”

Mahinang natawa si Ream sa sagot ng ina saka masuyo itong niyakap. “Thanks, Ma. I needed that.”

“You’re welcome.” Rowena pinched Ream’s cheek. “Now off you go and chase your woman. If she breaks your heart again, feel free to visit. You’re always welcome.”

Ream smiled affectionately at his mother before he placed a kiss on her forehead. “Thank you, Ma. I love you.”

“And I love you too.” Rowena felt so warmed that her eldest son was still so sweet even at his age. “And tell your little brother to visit me. He owes me dinner.”

Ream chuckled before nodding. “I will, Ma. But before that…” Inakbayan ni Ream and ina saka sabay ang dalawa na humarap sa karagatan. “Let’s enjoy the midnight sun first.”

Rowena smiled and leaned her head on her son’s shoulder. She was happy that her son never changed, still sweet and respectful towards her even after she left him with his father years ago to pursue her dream. She just hoped that this woman that her son adored was worth the effort.

LEAVING HAMMERFEST via private plane that Ream’s mother rented for him, it landed on Tromso, Norway, and from Tromso, he traveled via commercial plane to Oslo, Norway. Waiting for his connecting flight from Oslo to Istanbul, Ream was in the airport’s lounge sipping coffee and reading a book. When he got bored, he connected his phone to the airport’s wi-fi and sent a chat to BIG DECKS group chat.

What a disturbing group chat name, Ream thought before he sent a message. I wonder who changed it this time.

REAM OLIVEROS: My connecting flight is taking too long. I’m bored.

Thorn answered his chat with a photo of him, Knight, Shun, Lysander, Calyx, Pierce, Khairro and the very bored Valerian.

THORN CALDERON: We’re already in Istanbul waiting for you, bud. I want to say take your time, but Volkzki is about to bite our heads off. Kanina pa niya kami minumura, masakit na sa tainga. Kung hindi lang siya ang piloto, tinapon na namin ’to.

IUHENCE VERGARA: How mean could you be, you bastards?! Bakit hindi n’yo ako sinama?!

TYRON ZAPANTA: @IuhenceVergara maybe because we have a business meeting, and you need to attend? At saka wala ka namang maitutulong sa kanila. Hindi ka naman piloto at hindi mo kayang ilipad ang eroplano. Nasisiguro kong makiki-tsismis ka lang doon kaya dapat lang na iniwan ka.

IUHENCE VERGARA:

😭😭😭😭😭😭💔💔💔💔💔💔

KNIGHT VELASQUEZ: Wawa ka naman @IuhenceVergara, ang dami na naming tsismis na nalakap.

KUTONGEROsiSHUN: @KnightVelazquez it’s nakalap, hindi nalakap.

IUHENCE VERGARA: Holy shit! I thought it’s nalakap! @KnightVelasquez how dare you gave me a wrong translation for gathering!!! I’ve been dupe!

KNIGHT VELASQUEZ: You asked, I answered

🤷🏻

IUHENCE VERGARA: You need to avenge me @KUTONGEROsiSHUN!

KUTONGEROsiSHUN: Who the fuck change my name again?!

🔪

I will murder you!

LYSANDER CALLAHAN: Huwag kayong maingay. Kumakain kami. Nakaka-isturbo ang notification sound sa pagsubo ko ng kanin.

CALYX VARGAZ: Huwag n’yo kasing isturbuhin si Callahan. Nagbaon pa ’yan ng garlic fried rice galing Pinas. LOL.

KHAIRRO SANFORD: So that’s why I’ve been smelling garlic fried rice!

PIERCE MULLER: …

KHAIRRO SANFORD: Even here, Muller is silent.

Napailing na lang si Ream sa usapan sa group chat. Akmang babalik na lang sana siya sa pagbabasa nang makatanggap siya ng personal chat mula kay Shun.

‘Bud, it’s good that you’re going home.’

And below Shun’s message was a photo of Syl exiting a clinic with bruises on her neck and wrists. And based on the timestamp, the photo was taken just a week ago. Unconsciously, Ream gripped his phone tightly as his chest ached and regret came flooding in.

I shouldn’t have left, Ream thought as regret started eating at him. I shouldn’t have listened to her!

‘I know you’re all about respecting someone’s decision and all, but bud, you have to move or the woman you like will die in misery.’

With his shaking hands in anger, he replied. ‘I will.’

‘Good. She has tons of secrets, and she won’t tell you much. And since you’re adamant on respecting her privacy, then I will step back and you have to figure out her secrets yourself. Good luck, bud! It’s a nasty and rough ride for you. But if you think she’s worth it, then go get her.’

Worried and anxious, Ream couldn’t help it anymore. Pulling out Syl’s number from his contacts, he called her. When Syl didn’t answer, he called again. And at his third try, she finally answered.

“Syl—”

“Ream…?” Syl sounded hesitant, like she was not sure that it was him.

“Yes, Syl. It’s me.” Ream chuckled humorlessly. “You…didn’t save my number?”

“I did, but I deleted a while back.” Syl’s voice was so vulnerable that all Ream wanted to do was to gather her in his arms and hug her tight. “Why did you call? Is it because of the earrings?”

Ream frowned. “What earrings?”

“The one that my mom ordered?”

At the mention of Syl’s mom, Ream’s expression darkened. “No. It’s not about that. I just…I just want to ask if you’re doing okay. I mean, really, really okay?”

Syl, on the other line, bit her lip at how genuine Ream sounded. “I’m…” Her eyes looked down at her bruised wrist that she was covering with her long-sleeved dress. “I’m fine, Ream. Thank you for asking.”

“Are you really?” Ream didn’t believe Syl one bit. “It’s me, Syl. You don’t have to lie to me.”

Syl bit her lower lip harder. “A-ayos lang talaga ako. No need to worry. Hindi na ako pinagbubuhatan ng kamay ni Mommy, so…” Tears fell from her eyes. “I’m good.” Syl tried her best for her voice not to quiver. “I’m really good, Ream.”

Ream took a deep breath to calm himself because he could hear a small quiver in Syl’s voice. She was lying. “You know I respect your decision, right?”

Syl dried her tears as a frown made its way to her eyebrows. “Yes. I know.”

“Then will you hate me if I drag you out of that place you’re in?” Ream let out a loud sigh as if his emotion was becoming too much to bear. “I know you’re not fine. I know you’re lying to me right now.”

“Ream—”

“I went to Norway after out little talk in my store. I was hoping I’d forget you there. But…it’s not working for me, Syl. I don’t know why, but I really want to see you so bad. So, I’m coming back and the first thing I’ll do is to go see you.”

“Ream, no—”

“Please don’t reject me.” Ream rubbed his palm over his face to control his emotion from bursting out. “I don’t know what’s happening to me anymore, Syl. All I know is that I want you really, really bad. Pursuing you like this is against my principles, but I have to do something before I go crazy worrying over you and thinking about you.”

Panay ang tuyo ni Syl sa luha niya na ayaw tumigil sa pagdaloy. Gustong sabihin ni Syl kay Ream na hindi sila puwede kasi may asawa na siya pero ayaw niyon lumabas sa bibig niya. Hindi niya alam kung bakit nahihirapan siyang magpakatotoo kay Ream. Nahihirapan siyang aminin dito na hindi na siya malaya.

Siguro dahil makasarili siya. Masaya siya na gusto siya ni Ream at ayaw niyang mawala ’yon.

Ream was a good man. If he found out that she was already married when they shared an intimate night in Bali, the guilt and anger that would consume him…Syl didn’t want that for Ream. She wanted to avoid that.

“Ayaw mo ba talaga sa ’kin, Syl?” tanong ni Ream sa walang buhay na boses. “Wala ba talaga akong pag-asa? Magagalit ka ba sa ’kin kapag pinapatuloy ko ’tong pangungulit sa ’yo? Can’t you tell me the truth, Syl?”

Hearing Ream’s voice, like he had given up, Syl wanted to give in and just run to him and be with him, but a part of her didn’t want to drag Ream into her hellish life. Kapag nalaman ng mga magulang niya ang tungkol kay Ream, baka perahan din ng mga ito ang binata gamit siya at nasisiguro siyang gano’n ang mangyayari.

“Syl?”

Huminga nang malalim si Syl saka mahinang pinagsusuntok ang dibdib kung nasaan ang puso niya. “Natatakot ako, Ream. Natatakot ako na magpakatotoo kasi wala namang patutunguhan ’yon. Magkakasakitan lang tayo. I don’t want that.”

“If you don’t want that, it’s okay, Syl.” Ream’s voice softened and Syl felt warm and safe all over. “If you’re scared to like me back for personal reasons, that’s okay with me. I don’t mind. Just don’t be scared to accept my help. Syl, inuulit ko, hindi mo kailangang suklian ang nararamdaman ko para sa ’yo para tanggapin ang tulong ko. If you can’t accept my feelings, at least accept my help. Masaya na ako do’n. I just want you safe and unharmed and happy. So…will you meet me and hear me out?”

Syl bit her lower lip hard. “I don’t—”

“Think about it before you give me an answer,” mabilis na putol ni Ream sa sagot sana ni Syl. “Please, think about it. Really hard.”

Syl knew she should say no that very moment, but the word ‘okay’ came out of her lips.

And that single word made Ream smile. “Thank you, Syl.”

Why are you thanking me? I didn’t do anything worth thanking for. Syl wanted to ask that, but Ream already bade goodbye, saying it was time for his flight.

When the call ended, Syl looked at the screen of her phone. Alam niyang wala siyang dapat pag-isipan—hindi niya dapat pag-isipan ang ino-offer sa kaniya ni Ream dahil kilala niya ang sarili niya. Magkakaroon at magkakaroon sila ng relasyon ni Ream kapag hinayaan niya itong magpatuloy. Kahit ngayon pa lang, sa isiping makikita niya ulit ang unang lalaki sa buhay niya na niri-respeto lahat ng sagot at sinasabi niya, parang nagkakaroon ng kulay ang mundo niya, ano pa kapag kaharap niya ’to?

The strength she had to muster not to be tempted when she spoke with him in his store…Syl didn’t know if she could muster the same strength if she saw him again.

But if it was up to her, if her parents weren’t involved and if she disregarded the little morals left in her, she would run to Ream in a heartbeat. Because that was what she wanted. And for the first time in her life, she selfishly wanted something for herself.

Ream. She wanted Ream.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 7

“ARE YOU certain about this, Kuya?” Rhett and Ream were having breakfast in one of Rhett’s favorite restaurants and Rhett couldn’t help commenting this after hearing what his brother planned to do now that he was back. “Aren’t you taking it too fast? I mean, I get it, you like her, but isn’t it, I don’t know…” Rhett shrugged with a frown. “Too fast? Ilang beses mo pa lang siyang nakikita mula nang makilala mo siya sa Bali? Three? Four? Ni hindi nga kayo nagkakausap pa nang maayos mula nang makita mo siya ulit.”

Kumunot ang noo ni Ream sa kapatid. “What’s too fast?”

“You! And this woman, Syl! I’m sorry, Kuya, but I’m feeling skeptical about this.”

“Oh.” Ream calmly sipped his coffee and answered while placing the cup back on the table. “How is it too fast? I mean, I saw her in Bali, I’m attracted to her, and I like her. Isn’t that enough?”

Rhett blew out a loud breath. “It’s not about you liking her, it’s about you, being…smitten, like you’re in love or something!”

Ream frowned at his brother. “In love? Who?”

“You!”

“I am?” patanong na sagot ni Ream.

“Yes!” Rhett exclaimed. “I mean, you’re willing to move heaven and earth just to help her. If that’s not love, then what is?”

“Rhett, do you have to be in love to help a woman who’s hurting and in pain?”

Natigilan si Rhett sa tanong ng kapatid. “I…I—I don’t know. Don’t you?”

Ream sighed and shook his head. “I like Syl. I tried to forget her, but nothing happened, as you know. I still like her; I’m attracted to her and I’m willing to help because she’s the woman I like, and she needs help. Plain and simple.”

“So…you’re not in love with her?”

Ream shrugged. “I honestly don’t know.” Humilig si Ream sa likod ng kinauupuan. “I just want to help her. I want to see her happy—like when we were in Bali. She was smiling back then while we were talking, and I liked it. I want to see that smile again. I want to see that Syl. What’s so bad about wanting that?”

Gulong-gulo na tinitigan ni Rhett ang nakakatandang kapatid. He didn’t know what to call his brother at that moment—pure, or just plain ignorant when it came to love and liking someone? But maybe his brother just adored that woman and wanted her to be happy. Maybe it was not that complicated. And maybe this will fade away after his brother helped Syl. His brother had always been nice, after all.

“I thought you were in love with her because you said you can’t move on.”

Ream shrugged. “I like her.”

Rhett sighed. “Kuya, magkaiba ang like sa love.”

Ream shrugged again. “I know, and as of now, I like her. I like her to the point that I can’t forget about her.”

“That like will turn into love if you continue seeing her and helping her. Feelings develop overtime, Kuya.”

Ream shrugged like it was not a big deal. “Then so be it. I saw and learned from my friends’ experiences. Shit happens when you try to fight it, so, whatever. What will happen will happen, I guess.”

“Are you not even scared at all?”

“Scared? Hmm. I’m not there yet. I’m busy thinking of ways to help her and what words to say to convince her to accept my help. It’s more important to me than anything—more important than my ‘like’ for her. Rhett, you didn’t see what I saw. It was too much—too dark and just bad. You saw Mom when your dad abused her. We were still kids back then. We couldn’t do anything to save Mom. But now, I’m old enough to save someone. And this someone is the woman I’m attracted to. Of course I will move heaven and earth to help her. Isn’t that normal? To make sure that the person you like is happy and safe?”

“Kuya…”

“Because if you didn’t want them happy and safe…then that’s not really like . That’s just a person telling someone they like them, but they don’t really mean it.”

Rhett blew a loud breath and shook his head. “Fine. I rest my case. Go help her.”

Ream smiled. “I will. I will not step back this time. I will see her free and happy. And then, maybe after that, I’ll court her.”

Mahinang natawa si Rhett. “Hindi mo pagsasabayin? Akala ko ba gusto mo siya?”

Nagkibit-balikat si Ream. “There’s more pressing matters than my ‘like’. I want to help her first.”

Napailing si Rhett saka mahinang natawa. “Whatever you say. Good luck, Kuya.”

Ream nodded and sipped his coffee. “Thanks. Sana nga lang siputin niya ako mamaya. At sana tanggapin niya ang tulong ko.”

“I don’t think a woman will say no to you after knowing you a little bit, Kuya.” Rhett smiled proudly. “You are a total catch.”

Mahinang natawa si Ream. “It’s not about me, though. It’s about her willingness to accept my help. Me, being a total catch as you said, doesn’t matter.”

Mahinang napailing si Rhett. “And if she declines your help, what are you going to do, Kuya? I know for a fact that a ‘no’ is a ‘no’ to you.”

Ream sighed. “Hindi ko alam. Kaya nga pinagdarasal ko na sana tanggapin niya ang tulong ko. Wala naman akong masamang balak sa kaniya. Gusto ko lang tumulong.”

Bumuntonghininga si Rhett. “Kuya, halos lahat ng tao, tumutulong dahil may kapalit o may kailangan sila. At nasisiguro kong alam na alam na niya ’yon. I know you want her to trust you, but Kuya, to people like Syl, trust is something they can’t give easily. Hindi ko alam ang pinagdadaanan niya, pero kung kasinglala ’yon ng kay Mom dati, nasisiguro kong mahihirapan kang kunin ang tiwala niya.”

“I know.” Ream looked outside the restaurant’s glass wall. “Kaya nga gusto ko siyang makausap. I want her to understand why I want to help.”

Rhett just finished his breakfast and didn’t say anything. Afterwards, after Rhett bade Ream farewell, Ream rode his car to visit the main branch of his jewelry store to pass the time. Just checking if everything was fine and if there were no problems.

So far, his stores were doing well. And the more Ream saw his employees doing their jobs properly, the more he wanted to take good care of them. He knew that without these hardworking people working for him, his store would be nothing.

“Don’t forget to give me the result of the survey, Carlo,” bilin ni Ream sa manager ng main store. “I want to see my employees’ likes and dislikes.”

Tumango si Carlo. “Yes, sir! Isi-send ko ho mamaya ang resulta sa email n’yo.”

“Good. Thank you. Maiwan ko na kayo.”

“Sige, ho, sir. Ingat kayo.”

Tinanguan ni Ream ang mga empleyado niya bago umalis. Kapagkuwan ay tumingin sa relong pambisig para alamin kung anong oras na. Seeing that it was nearly time for his appointment with Syl, Ream drove to their meeting place, a restaurant he chose, and waited for Syl there.

Habang naghihintay kay Syl, kinuha ni Ream ang papel na palaging dala-dala sa pitaka at ang ballpen sa bulsa niya at nagsimula siyang mag-sketch. He was still not able to sketch a ring, so he opted to sketch bracelets and pendants. Habang nag-i-sketch, panay ang tingin ni Ream sa relong pambisig.

Medyo kinakabahan siya dahil baka hindi siya siputin ni Syl, pero laking pasasalamat niya nang makitang pumasok ang dalaga sa restaurant at naglakad patungo sa lamesa na inuukupa niya. Kaagad na itinabi ni Ream ang ini-sketch niya.

Syl was wearing a long-sleeved dress, and she kept tugging down the ends of the sleeves as if she was hiding something beneath it.

“Salamat sa pagpunta.”

Tahimik na tumango si Syl saka maingat na umupo sa kaharap na upuan ni Ream.

“Do you want order?” Ream asked. “May gusto ka bang kainin?”

Umiling si Syl saka huminga nang malalim na parang pinapakalma ang sarili. From where Ream was sitting, she looked really scared and anxious.

“Syl, are you okay?”

Syl automatically nodded her head. It was a habit. Palaging tango ang sagot niya sa mga tanong sa kaniya ng mga magulang kaya nakasanayan na niya. “I’m okay.”

“You don’t seem okay.”

“I am,” may diing sabi ni Syl. “Now, tell me what you want to talk about. I’m busy.”

“You’re not even going to look at me?” Ream asked, curious as to why Syl hadn’t looked at him since she arrived.

“Do I need to?”

“If you want to.”

Syl’s eyes remained on the table. “I don’t want to.”

Ream didn’t force Syl after that. “Okay. I won’t force you. No need to look at me if you don’t want to.”

Syl clenched her fists that were under the table hearing Ream words—one of the reasons why she came here in the first place other than to end whatever this was. She didn’t want to admit it, but she was drawn by his attitude towards her, how he treated her in Bali, and when they met again, how he always respected her decision even if it was full of rejection.

He always had that smile—that nice smile that she was drawn to.

Am I drawn to him because there’s no nice people in my life? Because I crave it? Syl honestly didn’t know why she wanted Ream. Maybe it was the company she wanted because Ream was different from the people around her? Or maybe it was his kindness and the respect he had shown her that got her interested?

Syl didn’t know. All she knew was that Ream was like a breath of fresh air for her. And she needed that air not to be contaminated by her and her toxic family. She wanted Ream as far away from her as possible. She will not drag someone to hell just because she was there.

“You told me over the phone that your mom doesn’t hurt you anymore.” Ream looked at Syl. She was wearing a long-sleeved turtleneck in this hot weather. It only meant one thing. Her mother didn’t stop at all. “Is that true?”

Syl didn’t answer.

“You don’t have to answer me if you don’t want to, but I just want to know, Syl. How long has this been going on?”

Syl froze because she knew exactly how long it had been.

Ream took a deep breath. He wanted to know so bad, but then he remembered Khairro’s advice about what to do to be a comfort to an abused victim.

“I know I can’t force you to do anything.” Ream was careful with his words. He didn’t want to sound insensitive. “And I know you don’t know anything about me for you to open up to me. I understand that you don’t trust me. But I just want to tell you that if you need to get away or to breathe or you want to do something and you want company, you can call me anytime. I—”

“Why?” Syl asked. She always wondered why Ream was so willing to lend a hand when even her relatives who knew what was going on didn’t. “And don’t give me that ‘I like you’ crap. I don’t…believe that.” Syl felt free answering Ream, telling him what was on her mind because she knew he’d respect it even if it was not what he wanted to hear from her. “I mean, I want to believe it, but we don’t exactly have a relationship other than what happened that time in Bali.” Syl finally looked at Ream. “I don’t think my pussy is that great for you to have feelings for me after that night.”

Napatanga si Ream kay Syl kapagkuwan ay mahinang itong tumawa. “That’s it…that’s the Syl that got my attention in Bali.” Ream’s smile was wide and radiant, but it slowly dissipated when he spoke again. “Though my ‘I like you’ is not crap, Syl. I do like you, and you told me back in my store that you like me too.”

Ream looked so genuine, the emotions on his handsome face not guarded and very open to read. But he’s better off without her, really.

“You were my first choice, Ream.” Syl spoke the words she rehearsed. Half-truth and half-lie to make it believable. “The first decision I ever made for myself, so of course, I like you. That’s normal. What’s not to like about you? Nice, respectful and kind…you’re a good catch. That’s why I don’t want to drag you into my mess. That’s why I’ve been avoiding you. But you keep saying that you like me and you keep offering help. In truth, I’m happy. Flattered even, that someone like you likes me . And then, it got me thinking—why would you like me?”

“I’m attracted to you.”

Syl’s face hardened. “That’s just the face, Ream. I may look beautiful outside, but I’m a broken mess inside. And if you dig deeper and know me, you’ll see how horrible of a person I am. Like what I have for you…it’ll vanish in time because it’s just infatuation. You liking me is just a phase. Maybe you just pity me after seeing my situation and mistook it for liking me.”

All the emotions on Ream’s face disappeared. “Either what I feel for you is pity or like, it shouldn’t matter. As I told you, you don’t have to reciprocate whatever I’m feeling for you. If you think it’s pity, I don’t give a rat’s ass. What I give a damn about is your situation at home. You’re not in a good place, Syl, and it’s time for you to pack up and leave.”

Syl was holding on to her brave façade. I have to end this—whatever this is. “Ream, I appreciate your worry and pity, but I don’t need it. My whole life, I survived without anyone’s help, and I’ll be okay for the next few years. Who knows, maybe I won’t live that long.”

Ream took a deep breath while watching Syl as she tried her best to push him away. Maybe there was truth in Syl’s words, like why she liked him, but that was it.

“Are you done?”

Syl stilled and nodded. “Yes. I’m leaving—”

“Before you do that, may I hold your hand?”

Syl didn’t know what Ream was planning, but if holding her hand meant getting away from Ream as fast as she could, she pulled her hand from under the table and rested it on the table.

Hinihintay ni Syl kung anong gagawin ni Ream sa kamay niya. Balak niya itong hayaan kung ano man ang plano nito, pero nang hawakan nito ang kamay niya at itinaas ang laylayan ng long-sleeve niya para makita ang mga pasa na tinatago niya, kaagad na inagaw ni Syl ang kamay kay Ream.

Ream took a deep breath and he looked at Syl who couldn’t look at him. “You may be surviving, but you’re not living. Is that what you really want? To be battered and bruised until there’s no space in your body?”

Syl glared at Ream and hissed, “You think I have a choice?!”

“You do!” Ream hissed back. “Me.”

Umiling si Syl. “No.”

“Syl—”

“I said no, Ream. It’s a no.”

Ream leaned on his chair and blew out a loud breath. “Why are you pushing me away? You said I was your first choice, so why push me away?”

“That’s exactly why.” Syl stood up. “I want my first choice to be happy and not betrayed and in pain because of me. I’m already used to this life, Ream. And I am not dragging you to that hell just because I’m there.”

Ream knew that if Syl left it was over. There was no third time’s a charm. “If you don’t believe in my ‘I like you’…I understand. If you don’t want to accept my help, I won’t force you. But please, if you think you’ve had enough, if you think that you’re in mortal danger, if you think that you want to escape…think of me. You have my number. Call me. I understand why you don’t want to share your hell with me, but please bear in mind that I am more than willing to share my heaven with you.”

A tear that Syl couldn’t control fell from her eyes.

“Just call and I will answer.” Ream said the words clearly. “Not as someone who likes you, or pities you, but just as a human being willing to care for another.”

Another tear fell from Syl’s eyes before she left. And Ream, who was left behind, took a deep breath as he watched Syl disappear from his sight.

Is accepting and asking for help…really that hard? 

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 8

NATIGILAN SI Syl sa pagpasok sa kabahayan nang makita ang asawa na si Izaak sa labas ng pintuan na parang may hinihintay. Halata kaagad ni Syl na hindi maganda ang mood nito dahil sa magkasalubong nitong kilay at madilim na mukha. Knowing what was coming, Syl braced herself and stopped in front of Izaak. Alam niyang siya ang hinihintay nito.

“Buti naman nandito ka na.” Matalim ang boses ni Izaak na nakasanayan na ni Syl. “I know you did it, but I’m still going to ask. Did you or did you not steal the large vase I bought in an auction?”

“What steal?” Syl was not in a good mood as well. She just pushed away the man she wanted. “Ang sa ’yo ay sa ’kin, ’di ba?”

Izaak clenched his fist while gritting his teeth. He was so close to snapping at his wife, he was just controlling himself. “Syl, we were forced to get married! That saying doesn’t apply to us! Wala kang pagmamayari sa bahay na ’to.”

“Wala akong pera, Izaak.” Syl was so tired of crying, but a tear still fell from her eyes. “Anong gusto mong gawin ko?”

“Work, maybe?!”

“Ayokong magtrabaho.” Nag-iwas ng tingin si Syl dahil ang mga salita na lumalabas sa bibig niya ay hindi galing sa kaniya kundi sa ina niya na isiniksik nito sa isip niya. “Gusto ko lang ng pera.”

Izaak scoffed. “If my parents find out about this, do you think they’ll still like you?”

Wala nang iba pang sasabihin si Syl kaya nilampasan niya ang asawa, pero pinigilan siya nito sa braso.

Pigil ni Syl na mapaigik dahil ang mismong nabugbog niyang braso ang nahawakan ni Izaak.

“Kinakausap pa kita, Syl. Huwag mo akong talikuran. Mga gamit ko ang mga binenta mo. Do you have any idea how hard I worked to buy those?!”

“I need money,” may diin na sagot ni Syl at rinding-rindi na si Izaak na marinig ang dahilan na ’yon.

Izaak blew out a loud, angry breath. “Hindi pa rin ba sapat ang perang binibigay ko sa ’yo? Goodness, Syl! Gaano ka ba kamukhang pera?!”

It used to affect Syl, those words, but these days, it didn’t really matter what Izaak called her. She needed the money, or else, there would be hell to pay. She already experienced that weeks ago and didn’t want a repeat.

“You know what, whatever!” Binitiwan ni Izaak ang braso ni Syl. “But the next time you sell something I own, I will not give you money anymore. Mark my words, Syl.” Then Izaak left to go to the island where he could forget his frustrations.

Si Syl naman ay tuluyang pumasok sa kabahayan at tiningnan ang mayordoma na nasa gilid ng sala. Alam niyang ito ang nagsumbong kay Izaak, pero ano namang magagawa niya?

“Nay Koring, ipaghanda mo ako ng makakain saka dalhin mo sa kuwarto,” utos niya rito saka umakyat sa kuwarto niya.

Her mother told her not to be nice to the maids because she was the queen of the house. And she listened because not listening meant another set of bruises.

Queen, my ass. What I am is a battered daughter—an abused woman. Syl knew all that, she knew she was not in a good place, she knew that Ream was right, she needed to pack up and leave, but if she did…Syl’s hand trembled at the memory of her punishment when she tried to run away.

Ever since she and Ria were kids, their parents liked her more than Ria because she was more docile and she always listened, afraid of being hurt. She was not as brave as Ria. She was the favorite, Ria once told her that. Oh, how she wanted not to be the favorite. Ria, on the other hand, was a rebel. A free loving girl who couldn’t be controlled. Their parents gave up on Ria when they became teenagers. They couldn’t control Ria, after all.

So, they focused on her.

Saying that she’ll one day be useful. That she will not disappoint them since they worked hard to give birth to her and raise her. Noong una, akala ni Syl, kailangan niyang maging matalino at maayos na magtrabaho sa kompaniya nila para maibalik ang utang na loob na sinasabi ng ina niya sa kaniya dahil sa panganganak at pagpapalaki nito sa kaniya. Akala niya sapat na ang mag-akyat ng pera sa kompaniya.

Pero hindi pala.

Iba ang gusto ng mga ito. Hindi pera na galing sa pinaghirapan niya kundi pera na madali niyang makukuha. They didn’t want a hardworking daughter; they wanted a perfect daughter who they could sell as their bank. So, they married her off to a wealthy man. Izaak Davidson. And her sole purpose was to use her body to get money from Izaak.

But she couldn’t. So, she pretended and stole—a manipulative bitch, as Izaak called her. She was a very nasty and sinful woman. And meeting Ream, her sin just doubled. She was married, yet she wanted another man’s touch. She was married, yet she craved another man’s attention.

There were times that she envied her twin’s bravery that she tried to be her—to mimic her. But the freedom she wanted didn’t happen like how it happened to Ria. She was the unlucky twin. She got caught. And what came after was the reason she didn’t try to be free again. The punishment, the pain, and the fear…it was too much for her to bear that she became who she was today—a broken robot for her parents to order around.

No, that was a lie. She tried to be free when she was in college and asked for help. She had a boyfriend who knew her situation at home and promised to get her out of there. But he lied and broke up with her for another girl who was not as messed up as she was. Like everyone else who promised to help.

Even her relatives who promised to help her stepped back and didn’t lift a single finger even after seeing her father slap her hard multiple times. They always turned a blind eye, like she was not suffering, like she didn’t need help.

There was a time when she wanted help, when she was craving for help. But she already reached the point that help was nothing but an illusion.

And the help Ream was offering was an illusion as well.

Oh, how happy she was when he offered. But it only took a minute for fear and doubt to creep in. What if it was a lie too? What if Ream changed his mind and pushed her back to the hell she was in? She was tired of hoping and being disappointed.

They said that asking for help when you needed it was the bravest thing one could do, but she’d rather be a coward and not ask for help. She could manage. She’ll survive. She’d been surviving and fighting on her own for years. She didn’t care if she was not living as long as she was alive. She was okay with that.

Ibinuka ni Syl ang nakakuyom na kamao saka pinakatitigad ang palad niya. Kapagkuwan ay tumuon ang tingin niya sa parte ng kamay kung saan nagtatagpo ang palad at daliri niya.

Ang tagal na pero nandoon pa rin ang pilat ng kahapon. Ang pruweba ng pagtakas niya noon at pagkahuli sa kaniya.

Nandoon pa rin ang sugat na gawa ng kutsilyo ng hawak ng ama habang dinidiinan nito ang kamay niya sa sahig at gustong putulin ang daliri niya dahil sa ginawa niya. Hindi iyon natuloy dahil nakialam ang ina niya. Hindi dahil nag-aalala ito sa kaniya kundi dahil nag-aalala ito sa katawan niya na hindi na magiging perpekto kapag pinutol ng ama niya ang tatlong daliri niya.

Between her mother and father, even though her father was fast to beat her when she made a mistake, she hated her mother more.

Minsan, kapag may aksidenting nakakaalam o nakakakita sa mga pasa niya at nalalaman ng mga ito ang nangyayari sa kaniya, palaging tinatanong ng mga ito kung tunay ba niyang magulang ang mga magulang niya.

How she wished she was adopted. At least, if she were, she could look for her biological parents and escape. But unfortunately, they were her real parents. An abusive father and a narcissistic, vain and an exploiter mother who would do anything to get what she wanted.

And what was fucked up about that? It was the fact that she didn’t want to escape anymore. Too scared to even rebel. That was how cowardly she was.

Wala naman kasing patutunguhan. Ilang tao na ba ang nakakaalam sa pinagdadaanan niya? Pero may nangyari ba? Wala. Lahat humakbang paurong dahil ayaw ng mga ito na ‘madamay’. At naiintindihan niya. Sino ba naman ang gustong madamay? Natural na sa mga tao na manood lang keysa gustong madamay.

Their convenience first before others. That was human nature.

Sarili muna bago ang iba.

Huminga nang malalim si Syl at libo-libo ang kabang naramdaman nang tumunog ang cellphone niya at nakita niyang ang ama niya ’yon.

Against her will, she accepted the call and spoke softly to not anger her father. “Yes, Dad?”

“I want to invest in my friend’s business,” anito. “Hindi pa rin nakakabalik sa dati ang kompaniya natin at kulang ang pera ko rito. Could you provide the money for me?” It was a question, but her answer should be a definite ‘yes’ and nothing else. “Ayokong maliitin ako ng mga kumpare ko at isipin nila na wala akong pera. Marami namang pera ’yang asawa mo kaya nga siya ang pinili naming para sa ’yo. Dapat tumanaw ka ng utang na loob dahil mayaman ang pinakasal namin sa ’yo at hindi gusgusin sa kanto.”

“Yes, dad.”

“Good,” sinabi nito ang halaga na kailangan nito. “I need it by next week.”

“Yes, Dad.”

Alam ni Syl na pagkatapos ng sagutan nila ni Izaak kanina, hindi siya makakahingi ng pera rito at mas lalong bantay sarado nito ang mga gamit nito.

That left her with no choice but to sell some of her jewelry she collected when she was still working and had the money to buy them. Ayaw niyang bitawan ang mga ’yon pero kailangan. Ayaw niyang madagdagan ang mga pasa niya sa katawan.

REAM SENT THREE words to their chat group: ‘BBQ and beer’, and everyone inside the group chat didn’t need any more explanation. They knew that Ream got rejected. Again. Though only Shun and Knight were not surprised. They were expecting it, actually.

One by one, lunatics entered Eva’s store and ordered barbecue and beer. At dahil marami sila, nagbuluntaryo si Knight na ito na ang mag-iihaw tulad ng nakasanayan nila at si Valerian naman na panay ang mura ang siyang naglalagay ng karne sa stick.

Sa gulat ni Eva, walang nagtanong kung sino ang magbabayad sa mga kakainin ng mga ito. Gano’n kasi palagi ang baliw na magkakaibigan na ginawang tambayan ang tindahan nila. Sa sobrang gugulo ng mga ito, dumating na siya sa punto na pinalayas niya ang mga ito. Nang hindi umobra ’yon, nilagyan niya ng limit kung ilan lang ang makakapasok sa tindahan nila, pero ang mga baliw na magkakaibigan, nagkampo sa lahat at dahil masyadong mabait ang ina niya, pinapasok ang mga ito.

Kaya naman hinayaan na lang ni Eva ang mga baliw na magkakaibigan sa gustong gawin ng mga ito at umupo na lang siya at nakinig ng educational podcast sa cellphone niya gamit ang earphones. Mas madadagdagan pa ang alam niya keysa naman mabuwesit siya sa mga baliw na nag-uumpisa na namang mag-ingay.

“Oh!” Iuhence welcomed Ream, who just entered the store. “Mr. Rejected has just arrived, fellas.”

Calyx gave Ream a BBQ and a bottle of beer. “Here, bud.” Then Calyx turned to Lysander. “Bud, magpakanta ka na ng mga mapanakit na kanta para kompleto ang pag-i-emo ni Oliveros ngayong gabi.”

And Lysander listened and played ‘HINDI TAYO PUWEDE’ by The Juans from the karaoke machine inside Eva’s store.

Ream just sighed and silently sat while drinking beer and eating BBQ.

Siyempre, ang mga gago niyang kaibigan, hindi siya hinayaang manahimik. Sumabay ang mga ito sa kanta lalo na ng sumapit ang chorus.

“Hindi tayo puwedeeee!” Birit na birit ang mga gago kahit si Knight na nag-iihaw at si Valerian na nagtutuhog ng karne. “Pinagtagpo, pero ’di tinadhana! Hindi na posibleee!” Damang-dama ng mga gago ang kanta, may pahawak pa sa dibdib at eksaheradong malungkot na emosyon sa mukha. “Ang mga puso’y huwag nating pahirapan! Suko na sa laban! Hindi tayo puwedeee!”

Ream just shook his head and let his friends continue singing sad songs on his behalf, from ‘HINDI NA TAYO PUWEDE’ to ’KUNG ‘DI RIN LANG IKAW’. Nang mapagod na rin ang mga ito sa wakas, kaniya-kaniya kuha ito ng BBQ at beer habang si Terron ang tagalista ng mga kinakain nilang lahat.

“I’m not broken-hearted,” ani Ream. “Just sad.”

“Same difference,” sagot ni Shun na nakaharap na naman sa laptop nito.

“Why not try hooking up with other women again?” Thorn suggested.

Ream sighed. “I’ll try. Kapag nasa mood na ako.”

Napailing si Phoenix na bumiyahe pa kasama si Titus at Hunt mula Baguio para samahan si Ream sa pag-i-emo nito. “At kailan naman ’yon?”

“Malay ko.” Uminom ng beer si Ream. “But I’m not leaving the country. This time around, I’m staying.”

“Why? So, you can run to her fast when she calls?” Titus asked.

“Yes.” Ream didn’t even try to deny it. “There’s more to this than my feelings, guys. This is not just about that.”

Everyone nodded and didn’t ask more. They would nonstop pry on Ream’s issues, but they didn’t even try when it came to the woman because they were sure that Ream would tell them if it was not a sensitive topic.

Ream actually appreciated his friends more because of that that he couldn’t help voicing it out. “Thanks for not asking too much. You’re all like tsimoso with a heart.”

Napakunot naman ang noo ni Knight na nagiihaw. “Huh…pero marami ditong tsismoso…so… tsismosos with a heart ’yon. With ‘s’. Tsismosos naman, ’di ba, ang plural ng tsismoso.”

Lahat napatingin kay Knight, pilit na iniintindi ang sinabi ni Knight hanggang sa sumuko na lang lahat ng hindi ng mga ito na gets si Knight.

“Doon na lang tayo sa gossiper,” ani Lath, “at least siguro tayo na ang plural n’on ay gossipers .”

Ream shrugged. “Then let me rephrase my sentence. You’re all gossipers with a heart.”

Lahat nag-thumbs-up kay Ream maliban kay Knight na bumulong-bulong pa. “ Tsismosos pa rin. Ipaglalaban ko ’yon.“

“Espanyol, mag-ihaw ka na lang,” wika ni Shun.

“Sabi ko nga,” parang nagtatampong sabi ni Knight dahil hindi ginamit ni Ream ang salitang tsismosos.

“So, anong plano mo ngayon?” tanong ni Sanford habang panay nakaw nito ng BBQ na katatapos palang ihawin ni Knight.

Nagkibit-balikat si Ream. “I honestly don’t know. Come what may?”

“Good plan,” wika ni Dark habang kumakain ng BBQ. “That’s what I did with my wife. I liked her, but she was in a relationship, so I kept it to myself and decided that hell, come what may. But of course, you have to be ready when may finally comes .”

“Good advice, bud,” sabad ni Evren. “Pero torpe ka pa rin.”

“Fuck you.”

“Wala nang tatalo pa rito kay Callahan sa katorpehan,” tumatawang sabi ni Calyx.

“Okay lang naman kahit torpe, importante seryoso at hindi nananakit,” sabad ni Hunt.

Inulan kaagad ng tukso si Hunt na nagkibit-balikat lang.

“Whatever.” Cali raised his beer. “Let’s just cheers to Ream and wish him good luck. Malakas ang sumpa ni Volkzki. Mahaba-habang lusak pa ang gagapangin niya.”

Ream sighed. “Geez. Thanks for the love and care.”

“Anytime, bud!”

Valerian groaned. “Why the fuck do you keep blaming me for your fucking heartaches?! Hindi ba puwedeng malas lang talaga kayong mga animal kayo?!”

“Sabi nga namin,” anang lahat para hindi na sila masumpa o mamura ni Valerian.

Napailing na lang si Ream saka nagpatuloy sapag-inom. Ito ang kailangan niya ngayon—distraction and diversion while he wasstill not sure what to do next. Though there was one thing he was sure of—andthat was to answer if Syl called.

CECELIB | C.C.

CHAPTER 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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 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.

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 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.

EPILOGUE

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SPECIAL CHAPTER: New Home, New Beginning, New Memories

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SPECIAL CHAPTER: Housewarming

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SPECIAL CHAPTER: Welcoming the Precious Jewels

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SPECIAL CHAPTER: Busy Life with Quintuplets

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My Official Wattpad AMA

Thank you so much for supporting and reading Ream and Syl’s story. It had been a fun journey with you. I Hope you had fun reading their story as much as I had fun writing it. I appreciate you so much! Hoping to see you in PS25.

I love you!

  ![](https://img.wattpad.com/e0da14e6901c8e86883d3d707bd0c6753352f97a/68747470733a2f2f73332e616d617a6f6e6177732e636f6d2f776174747061642d6d656469612d736572766963652f53746f7279496d6167652f33766767625f6b675f66587252673d3d2d313231333539353332362e313665346531393230656233613162653833323231313236343232302e706e67)

Make sure to save this date: April 12 , I will be right here, on this chapter from 6 to 7 PM PHT to answer your questions for a quick AMA (Ask Me Anything). I can’t wait to chat with all of you!

CECELIB | C.C.

SPECIAL CHAPTER: R&R

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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SPECIAL CHAPTER: Meeting The Ex

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SPECIAL CHAPTER: Four Identical and One Sleepyhead

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SPECIAL CHAPTER: Adulting (Quints)

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SPECIAL CHAPTER: Saturday Night

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✨ 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/338e6e60d2c474ddf8415f66511489ccf24e695d/68747470733a2f2f73332e616d617a6f6e6177732e636f6d2f776174747061642d6d656469612d736572766963652f53746f7279496d6167652f466b486e417437786a59366c70673d3d2d313434363038353033392e313763663938626133313133643863363932353930343738393633352e6a7067)

FINALE: Ream Oliveros’ Sexily Ever After

The final part of Ream Oliveros’ 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!