TEASER

https://youtu.be/ta4_-sgQNyQ

Charismatic band vocalist Kielton Grande is known for easily winning over any woman he desires. But when he crosses paths with spoiled and bratty Kianna Avarie Campbell, Kielton encounters an unexpected challenge. Could it be that he finally found his match?

---

Determined to succeed in the music industry, Kielton Grande leaves his family’s luxurious life and paves his way to success. With his good looks and captivating voice, ColdHeart’s vocalist easily charms his way around women, often seen with different girls all the time. But when he crosses paths with bratty model Kianna Avarie Campbell, Kielton is challenged for the first time. Determined to win her over, Kielton does everything to get closer to Kianna and attempts to prove that it won’t be just a one-night stand. When different circumstances try to drift them apart, can Kielton and Kianna get the happy ending they long for? Or will fate play its tricks and break their hearts even more?

PROLOGUE

PROLOGUE

KIELTON was sitting annoyingly in one of the chairs in their mansion’s library room. His father, Sebastian Grande, a Filipino-Italian tycoon businessman, was sitting in his swivel chair at the center of the long table. Beside him was his mother, Karrah Miller-Grande, a Filipino-British former fashion model.

Their family was well-known for their cruise ships and other transportation that were used to travel by water. His father wasn’t retiring yet, but his older brother, Clinton, was the one who helped him with their family business.

At siya? Wala siyang kwenta sa paningin ng ama. His father had expected too much from him ever since, but he always ended up disappointing him. He’s a big disappointment to his family, a fucking black sheep, a rebellious one, go and name it.

“What the hell are these, huh?!” Pabalang na inilapag ng ama ang mga larawan niya na kuha sa isang club sa Cebu na nakikipagbasag-ulo.

It was taken just last night. He was drunk. He was with a few women when suddenly, one of the woman’s ex-boyfriend attacked him. Sanay na sanay siyang makipagbasag-ulo kaya hindi niya pinalampas ang pagkakataon na ’yon na pumatol, sinabayan pa ang init ng ulo niya.

“I already settled that.”

“I don’t care if you already settled that or not. What I want for you is to stop your fucking rebellion!” His father’s voice raised, and he was glaring at him.

“Honey.” His mother held his father’s hand to calm him down.

“Are you even aware that you are ruining our name?!”

Kielton clenched his jaw. Pinapakalma niya ang sarili kahit na ang dami-dami niyang gustong sabihin. Nang tingnan siya ng ina sa nakikiusap na mga mata, mas nahirapan siyang sumagot-sagot na naman.

“’Yang banda mo, ’yan ang sumisira sa ’yo, Kielton. You’re spending your time in that shit with your poor alcoholic bandmates!”

Kielton opened his mouth to protest, but he fucking stopped himself again when he saw that his mother’s eyes watered.

His parents were very disagreeing with him choosing music over running their businesses. Ang pinagkaiba lang ay hindi siya pinagsasalitaan ng masasakit ng ina, hindi katulad ng daddy niya na halos isumpa siya.

“They are not alcoholic,” he muttered.

His father’s face became dark when he spoke. Hindi ito kailanman tatanggap ng dahilan niya, palagi siyang mali at ito ang tama. He’s so tired dealing with his own father.

“Bakit hindi mo na lang gayahin ang kapatid mo at tumulong ka sa pagpapatakbo ng negosyo? Hindi ’yang ganyan, Kielton. Look at yourself.” His father pointed a finger on him like as if he’s some dirty trash that he can’t accept. “I don’t have a son like that. Your tattoo almost covered your arm. You’re not in the prison.”

“This is art,” he simply said. “I have it here, Dad.” Sa sobrang iritado ay gusto niyang galitin pa lalo ang ama para paalisin na siya at makatulog na.

Tumayo si Kielton at tumalikod, itinaas ang damit para makita ng daddy niya ang tattoo sa kanyang likod.

“That’s not funny!” His father’s angry voice thundered.

“Anak, sige na, magpahinga ka na muna,” ani ng mommy niya sa malumanay na tinig.

Tahimik na napabuntonghininga siya. Kalaunan ay lumapit sa ina para bigyan ito ng halik sa pisngi bago lumabas ng library room.

THEY WERE in their studio in BGC when Kielton remembered that day in their library room in the Grande’s mansion in Cebu. Isa lang ang araw na ’yon sa maraming beses na pagtatalo nila ng ama bago siya tuluyang nagdesisyon na umalis sa kanila at kunin ang kalayaang matagal nang inasaam-asam.

He cut off communication with his parents but not with his brother. Clinton understood and supported him in his career.

Hindi naging madali ang pag-angat ng banda niya sa industriya ng musika. Mula sa Cebu ay tumuntong sila sa Maynila, hinahanap ang swerte na makilala pa.

Tatlong taon ang lumipas na sa iba’t ibang club o bar lang silang tumutugtog hanggang sa isang araw ay may nakapansin sa kanilang agent ng isang sikat na talent agency sa Maynila. Their career started from there.

“Boys, I have a new deal.” It was now their manager, Allison, the one that discovered them.

Mula sa balkonahe ay tinapos ni Kielton ang paninigarilyo bago pumasok sa loob. They rented a condo unit and used it as their studio. It was soundproof so that they couldn’t disturb their neighborhood.

“What is it?” Naupo siya sa sofa at inabot ang gitara na nasa katabing lamesa.

“Out of town?” Owen, their pianist, asked.

Most of his bandmates were sitting on the carpeted floor, and he was the only one sitting on the couch with his guitar. Allison was standing in front of them, wearing her loose branded blouse and denim short shorts that revealed her legs.

Kielton brows shot up when he realized he was noticing her. Sa lahat ng mga babaeng nakapaligid sa kanya, tanging si Allison lang ang hindi niya kayang gawan ng kalokohan. Mas bata ito ng dalawang taon sa kanya, pero successful na kung susumahin.

Alisson cleared her throat and arched her eyebrows at him when she noticed that he was watching her whole body.

Maya-maya ay sumipol si Jasper, nang-aasar. He played with his drumsticks while whistling.

“Hanggang tingin na lang ba ako… sa ’yo….” pakantang sinabi ’yon ng lead guitarist nila, si Jude.

“Anyway, let’s be serious, boys. Mamaya na ’yang kalokohan niyo.” Si Allison na sumeryoso na. “This will be held in Campbelland Tower in Las Pinas. Sa susunod na linggo na ito. Five songs, then we are out. Well, you can stay in the party if you like, since the employees requested this band to their boss.”

“What’s the party all about?”

“It’s Campbelland’s anniversary, Kiel,” Alisson answered him. “I have our invitation, and oh, before I forget, this is not just a simple event, so please, stop hitting on the women there and behave as long as you can. Campbell’s special guests are his business tycoon friends and some investors.”

“Just make sure that my father is not invited,” he muttered and played with the strings of his guitar, making low, soothing sounds around them.

“Sebastian Grande is on the VIP guest list, but the Campbell secretary told me that he can’t come. So, baka representative lang ng El Grande Cruise Ships ang magpupunta.”

“Okay, then, I’m in.”

Pagkatapos ng maiksing meeting ay nagkanya-kanya na muna silang uwi sa condo na tinitirahan nila na nasa gusali din na ‘yon. Gabi nang magpasya siyang magpunta sa D’ Club. Naabutan niya ro’n si Carter.

“Brute.” He patted his friend’s shoulder. “Alone? How sad.”

Carter just sipped on his vodka. They were at the island counter of the bar, and in front of them were different brands of liquor and the bartender.

“Sex on the beach, man,” he said to the bartender.

“On it, Sir.”

“Ikaw? Kailan ka mag-aasawa?” tanong sa kanya ni Carter na ikinatawa niya.

Sa kanilang magkakaibigan, sila na lang ni Carter ang hindi pa nagpapatali sa babae. Sa tanong nitong ’yon, alam na alam niya na ang sagot.

“Asawa? Ni wala nga akong girlfriend.”

Nagdududa lang siya nitong tiningnan. Ayaw pang maniwala.

“Wala kang nagugustuhan?”

“Well…” He smirked.

“May nagugustuhan ka na? Kaya hindi na ako magtataka kapag bigla kang nag-asawa katulad ng mga kaibigan natin.”

Sumimsim si Kielton sa alak nang mailapag ’yon sa kanyang harap bago sinagot ang kaibigan na mukhang pati ang love life niya ay pinoproblema.

“She’s just different, but it doesn’t mean I like her the way you think. I don’t want to get married, brute.”

Kielton was referring to Alisson. Pakiramdam niya ay pang-seryosohan si Alisson at hindi siya ang nababagay sa dalaga. Siguro ay natsa-challenge lang siya dahil hindi katulad ng ibang babae, si Alisson ay hindi kailanman nagpakita ng interes sa kanya. Trabaho lang talaga ang pakay, wala nang iba.

“If she’s different for you, then it speaks something. Maybe you’re in love with her, and you’re just denying it,” Carter said.

“What happened to the Carter Altaraza that I know?” he asked, chuckling. “You didn’t talk about love before. Why are you telling me all about this? Oh, I don’t like that topic anyway. It’s scary.” He sipped on his liquor. “And I am not in love.”

“Pustahan?” hamon nito.

“Pustahan!” aniya dahil sigurado siyang hindi siya in love! Humahanga, oo, pero hindi in love! “Ano ang ipupusta mo?”

“Ang tapang, ha. Kapag napatunayan kong in love ka, bugbog ka sa ’kin!”

Tumawa ulit siya sa kaseryosohan ni gago.

“Kapag hindi, ’wag kang makipag-sex sa babae ng isang buwan!” ganti niya, mas matindi.

Carter snorted. Halatang hindi nito gusto ang hamon niya, pero dahil idinidiin nitong in love siya, mayabang itong tumango.

“Sige, tangina, ha. Humanda ka.”

“Gago, ikaw ang humanda. Handa mo na ’yang mariang palad mo.” Humalakhak siya, kompyansa talaga na matatalo niya sa pustahan ang gagong kaibigan.

Naputol lang ang kagaguhan nilang dalawa nang may lumapit na tatlong babae. Wala pa man ay nakalingkis na sa kanya ang isa. Ang isang may maiksing buhok ay kay Carter lumingkis. Ang isang babae ay nasa gitna nila.

“Hey, boys, wanna have fun tonight?” a woman beside him whispered sexily.

Nagkatinginan sila ni Carter at kapwa tumaas ang sulok ng labi.

“Game on.” Inubos ng kabigan ang alak sa baso at tumayo na.

“How ’bout you?” Humalik ang babae sa kanyang leeg.

If he’s in love, for sure, he wouldn’t let any woman get closer to him. Kielton smirked on his mind when he realized that Carter lost the bet.

Inubos niya ang alak sa baso bago tumalima. They went to the club female restroom. Kielton locked the door before the woman attacked him with a hungry kiss. Nabalot ng mga halinghing ng tatlong babae ang banyo nang pinagsalit-salitan nila ni Carter na bayuhin ang mga ito sa ibabaw ng lababo.

“Oh, sobrang sarap. Sige pa!” ungol ng babae habang nakatuwad ito at marahas na binabayo niya mula sa likod.

They saw their reflection in the large mirror. They did not even bother to remove their clothes because this was just a fucking quickie.

Nagkatinginan sila ni Carter sa repleksyon ng salamin, pareho sila ng posisyon, umangat lang ang sulok ng mga labi nila bago hinayaan ang mga sarili na malunod sa panandaliang sarap.

THE CAMPBELLAND Tower reminded him of their condominium building. It was almost the same until they discovered that Campbelland was the one who had built that building in BGC.

The security was tight. Kung hindi pa ipinakita ni Allison ang invitation nila at ang ilan pang dokumento na sila ang magpe-perform para sa gabing ’yon, hindi sila makakapasok.

Kielton almost forgot the feeling of a luxurious life. Before, whenever he visited their El Grande’s offices, nobody asked him to check on him. Dere-deretso lang ang lakad niya at lahat ng empleyado ay babatiin siya at ibababa nang bahagya ang mga ulo bilang respeto.

Nakakapanibago ang karanasan niya no’ng gabing ’yon. He was annoyed with the tightness of Campbelland’s security.

It felt like these fucking securities thought that his group was capable of committing a crime inside, or maybe they thought that they were some kind of con artist thieves that they needed to fully check on them to see if they were really unarmed!

“How rich is that Campbell, huh?” hindi niya napigilang sabihan nang makalagpas sa security scanner.

“They are rich enough to give an order to their securities to protect their VIP guests,” Allison said with a shrug. “But, I believe Grande is richer than them.”

“Of course,” iritadong sagot niya at inilapag ang gitarang dala sa couch nang makapasok sila sa silid sa backstage.

“Now, you know the difference between rich and poor people,” ani Felixx na bahista nila.

“Alam ko ’yon.”

“So, hindi ka lang sanay na pinagkakamalan na magnanakaw at gagawa ng krimen sa isang party na may mga bisitang mayayaman?”

“Sa kanila na ang yaman nila. We came here to entertain them, not to steal something. How pathetic,” he leered, really annoyed now.

“’Wag mo kaming kalimutan kapag bumalik ka na sa mansyon niyo, Kiel,” biro ni Jude na sinamaan niya lang ng tingin.

Wala siyang balak bumalik sa mansyon nila at idadahilan na nahihirapan siya sa buhay na pinili niya. Siguradong pagtatawanan siya ng ama at sasabihin na mali ang landas na tinahak niya kahit pa masaya siya.

His pride would never allow him to get back to his old luxurious life. No fucking way!

“You need to cool down.” Allison noticed his bad mood. “We still have one to two hours to prepare. Go ahead and soothe yourself, Kiel.” Then she smiled warmly at him.

Narinig niya na naman ang mga mapang-asar na sipol ng mga gago kaya umalis na lang din siya bago niya pa mapagbuntunan ang mga ito sa iritasyon niya sa seguridad.

Keilton went outside of their small, air-conditioned room. Hinawi niya nang bahagya ang makapal na itim na kurtina sa gilid ng stage upang tingnan kung sino itong mga ’to na maswerteng makakarinig ng boses niya at makikita siya nang personal.

The tight security really annoyed him for making him feel that he was just trash that could commit a crime in this fucking event!

“Hindi yata magpupunta si Ma’am Kianna. Late na daw matatapos ang photoshoot niya,” narinig niya lang na sabi ng isang grupo ng kababaihan na medyo malapit sa gilid ng stage.

“Okay lang na wala siya. Maarte naman ’yang anak ng boss natin. Baka kapag nakita tayong nagkakasiyahan, iirapan lang tayo katulad ng ginawa niya noong nakaraan.”

“Masyado kasing ini-spoil ng magulang niya. ’Yan tuloy, napakaarte at maldita.”

“Kung ano ang ikinaganda ng mukha, siyang ikinapangit ng ugali.”

“Tumigil na kayo baka may makarinig pa sa inyo,” saway ng isang lalaki.

Nagkibit-balikat lang si Kielton at hinawi na pabalik ang kurtina. Marami na ang tao pero hindi pa ganap na nag-uumpisa ang event. Sa wari niya ay hindi lang dalawang oras ang hihintayin nila bago makapagsimula.

Kielton made his way to the hallway, hoping to find a place where he could smoke.

Sa dulo ay nakakita siya ng balkonahe kung saan pwedeng manigarilyo. Nagpunta siya roon at sinindihan ang sigarilyo. He looked down and saw the large parking area. He even saw their van.

Sa harapan naman ay tanaw niya lang ang kahabaan ng pampublikong daan para sa mga sasakyan. There were some tall buildings around but what caught his attention was the billboard of a woman near the entrance of Campbelland Tower.

It was an advertisement for Campbelland, and the face they used was very effective for everyone who saw it because she really has an angelic face that would make you stare at her.

Her almond deep eyes were captivating, but her lips looked so sensual for him.

Her styled, wavy hair was placed only on one side of her shoulder, and the pink off-shoulder top she was wearing revealed her sexy collarbone. It was a casual shot, but he found it seductive.

“I don’t wanna go here! But Mommy forced me.” He heard that voice from behind.

Nang tingnan niya ang pinanggalingan ng boses ay umangat kaagad ang kanyang kilay. It was the woman on the billboard!

Sporting a champagne silk short dress with a thin strap and nude high-heeled stilettos, the woman walked in the hallway while she was brushing her hair with her fingers. Nasa tainga nito ang mamahaling cellphone.

Kahit hindi pa tapos sa paninigarilyo ay tinapos niya ’yon at sinundan ang babae na papunta sa pinanggalingan niya kanina.

“Hey,” habol niya, hindi palalampasin ang pagkakataon na makilala kung sino man ang babaeng ito.

The woman stopped, and she slowly turned her body to face him. Kielton gave his beautiful but playful smile at her, which always made his fans giggle.

“W-who are you?!” She stepped backward. Naalarma ito sa presensya niya.

Napawi ang ngiti niya at sumeryoso. Kielton stepped forward, but the woman stepped backward.

“Don’t get near me! I will call a security!” She panicked. “Guard! Renato! Pablo!” tawag nito sa tarantang boses, marahil ay ang mga bodyguard ang tinatawag.

“Relax.” Tumawa siya sa reaksyon nito ngunit hindi yata maganda ang dating dito ng tawa niya.

She pointed a finger at him angrily. Oh, look at those angry eyes.

“You! Thief! Paano ka nakapasok dito?! Our securities are tight as hell! How come they let a thief like you enter our premises!”

“Oh-oh.” Itinaas niya ang dalawang kamay bilang pagsuko para kumalma lang ito.

What did she call him again? A fucking thief? What the fuck?

“I’m not a thief⎯”

“You fucking shut up!” she cut him off with a glare. She’s covering her real feelings. She’s scared.

He stepped closer and almost smirked at her horrified, beautiful face as she stepped backward.

“Wala kang makukuha sa ’kin! I don’t have cash here!” She suddenly threw her expensive phone at him. “’Yan, sa ’yo na ’yan!” Luminga ito sa paligid, nanghihingi ng tulong. “Where are my fucking bodyguards!”

“I don’t fucking need your damn phone.” His low baritone made her gasp.

“Y-you thief!” paratang na naman nito. “We have CCTVs around! You will get caught easily! Don’t try to harm me!”

This little witch was out of her fucking mind.

“I’m harmless,” he whispered hoarsely as he stepped a little closer. Her back was now resting on the wall. “I’m not a thief. I can sue you for accusing me without valid evidence, you little witch.”

“I’m not a witch! How dare you call me that?! You don’t even know who the hell you’re talking to!”

This hard-headed woman wouldn’t really stop from raising her voice at him, huh?

“Who are you then?” He cocked his head to the side, giving himself the freedom to stare at her face closely.

Inirapan siya nito sabay iwas ng tingin.

“Why would I tell you my name, huh? You’re stranger and…” Tiningnan nito ang mukha niya pababa sa katawan niya. He’s aware with her effects to women. This one was just so good in hiding her feelings. “… you’re invading my space. Move!” Sabay tulak nito sa dibdib niya.

Suko na nang nagkibit siya ng balikat.

“You are losing one night of pleasure for pushing me away,” he said in husk.

“Oh, really? I’m sorry to burst your bubble, but I’m not a hooker! And I’m not really into someone like you! Guwapo ka lang pero hindi ikaw ang tipo ko!”

“Well, you’re my type.” He couldn’t help himself and leaned his face closer again to her. He then secretly smelled her sweet yet seductive scent. “I get whoever I want, and you’re not the exception.”

“You wish!” she snorted and pushed his face away using her smooth, soft palm.

Napapikit siya. Isang dampi lang ng palad nito sa kanyang mukha ay naramdaman niya kaagad ang pamilyar na init ng katawan. Natutukso siya.

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER ONE

ALL that she wanted was support from her parents for choosing modeling over running their business. She couldn’t afford to sit in the office all day and do paperwork or go on a trip to visit their sites, lands, and other housing and condominium projects.

Sometimes, she just wanted to be a rebellious child, but she knew she couldn’t live yet without depending on her parents’ financial support. She’s scared to be poor, to live in a small ugly house, or to ride in public vehicles. No way!

Kaya naman kahit hindi aprubado ng magulang ang trabaho niya, kahit madalas na nasesermunan niya, nanatiling matibay ang loob niya at matigas ang ulo na ipagpatuloy pa rin ang pagmomodelo.

Nasasanay na siya sa mga sermon ng mommy at daddy niya pero kalaunan, tumitigil din naman ang mga ito kapag nakikitang nasasaktan na siya, at minsan ay umaarte pa siyang umiiyak para lang matigil na ang mga ito.

Hindi rin siya matiis ng magulang, na kahit hindi na gusto ang ginagawa niya, wala, hindi talaga siya mapigilang huminto.

“I don’t want to have a rebellious child, Campbell!” She heard her mom’s voice from the backyard’s swimming pool. She was talking to her father. “Let that kid do whatever she wants. Magsasawa rin ’yan sa pagmomodelo.”

Ang ikinaganda lang siguro sa sitwasyon niya, may dalawa siyang kapatid na tumutulong sa negosyo. Siya ang bunso at siya pa talaga itong matigas ang ulo, huh.

Bakit kasi hindi na lang tanggapin ng daddy at mommy niya na ito talaga ang kapalaran niya, ang pagmomodelo.

“Suwail talaga ’yang bunso natin. Tanggapin mo na, Pamela,” ani ng daddy niya. “I will never support her modeling.” He was shaking his head, very disappointed.

“Maybe, shes just confused about what she really wants in life. She’s enjoying that modeling because her friends are in that industry. Sa kumpanya natin, wala ang mga kaibigan niya. And she’s still young. Let’s just give her the life she wants for now.”

Marahil ay suko na rin ang mommy niya sa pagbabawal sa kanya sa pagmomodelo kaya ganito na ang naririnig niya. Medyo sumasang-ayon na ito sa kanya o baka pinagbibigyan lang talaga siya.

“You’re spoiling her kaya ’yan naging suwail. Hindi na lang gumaya kina Amara at Asher,” tukoy nito sa mga kapatid niya. “They are already successful and they stopped spending our money because they earn enough from working for our company. How ’bout your little spoiled brat, huh?”

Napanguso siya. Hindi gano’n kalaki ang kinikita niya. Mas mahal pa ang isang Chanel na bag niya kaysa sa isang buwan na kita.

Nag-uumpisa pa lang naman siya at sa katulad niyang beginner, kailangan ay maging sapat muna sa kanya ang perang pinaghihirapan, kung hindi ay susuko talaga siya. Kaya pinagtiyatiyagaan niya ang maliit na halaga ng pera galing sa pagmomodelo.

Naisip niya rin na maghanap na lang ng bagong agent. Matumal ang agent niya, at hindi siya mabigyan ng magandang raket. Sa susunod, ’yon ang pagkakaabalahan niya—maghahanap siya ng bago.

“She earned a little,” her mother said in a weak tone, but there was a smile on her lips. “At least, she earns, right? Pinaghirapan niya ’yon. Dapat lang na kumita siya kahit papa’no.”

“And how many bodyguards does she have? Two, right? Pablo and Renato? One driver and her personal assistant?” His father shook his head again. He then laughed without humor. “She can’t pay them with her small earnings. Pinapagod niya lang ang sarili niya sa trabaho niyang ’yan.”

“Pero sa pagmomodelo ako masaya,” kausap niya sa sarili sa mahinang boses. Pinagkakasya niya ang sarili sa sulok, sa gilid ng halamanan, huwag lang siyang mamataan ng magulang.

“Ano ang gusto mo? Tanggalan siya ng bodyguard?”

Kinabahan siya bigla sa isasagot ng ama. Hinawi niya ang bulaklak upang makita pa ang mga ito.

“Maybe one is enough. Dito lang naman siya sa Maynila.”

“You gotta be kidding me, Campbell.”

“No, I’m serious. Kung gusto niyang dalawa ang bodyguard niya, bayaran niya ’yung isa.”

“I can live without a bodyguard or with only one,” she murmured. “But I can’t live without Ate Evie.” She was pertaining to her personal assistant.

“Then, I’ll talk to her about that.”

“Mabuti pa dahil hindi ko kakausapin ang batang ’yan.” Ang daddy niya, galit talaga sa kanya.

Nang pumorma na aalis ang mommy niya ay mabilis siyang pumasok sa mansyon nila. Napatili pa siya nang masalubong si Aling Nora na may dalang tray ng merienda at orange juice.

“Hay, aatakihin ako sa ’yo sa puso,” anito na nagulat din sa presensya niya.

“Kina Daddy ’yan?” Turo niya sa tray.

“Oo, ihahatid ko.”

“Ako na. Ako na ang maghahatid.” Hindi pa ito nagsasalita ay kinuha niya na ’yon at masayang nagpunta sa swimming pool area.

“Hi, Dad! Hi, Mom!” magiliw na bati niya. “Merienda!” Inilapag niya ’yon sa lamesa at nagkalansingan ang mga baso at plato sa walang ingat niyang paglapag. “Oops.”

Hindi siya pinansin ng daddy niya. Ang mommy niya naman ay nagkibit lang ng balikat.

“Pupuntahan sana kita sa kwarto mo, anak. May sasabihin ako.”

Alam niya na ’yon. Narinig niya na.

“Ano po ’yon?”

Naupo siya sa sun lounger. Malilim na at nakakahalina ang lumubog sa tubig sa pool kung hindi lang siya kakausapin ng ina.

“Kianna,” my name escaped from her lips. “We decided to remove one of your bodyguards. You choose between Pablo and Renato to be your guard.”

“Si Kuya Renato na lang.”

Umangat ang isang kilay ng mommy niya sa mabilis niyang sagot at walang reklamo na narinig sa kanya. One guard was enough!

“Pero, saan magtatrabaho si Kuya Pablo?”

Matigas ang ulo niya pero concerned naman siya sa mga tauhan nila kahit papano.

“We will bring Pablo back to Campbelland Tower as one of our securities.”

Tumango siya. “Sige po, ayos lang sa ’kin ang isang bodyguard… kahit nga po wala na. Wala namang ki-kidnap sa ’kin.”

“Mas maganda na ang mayroon, anak. We don’t want to risk our children’s lives.”

Kianna was really not sure how wealthy they were. She didn’t really care though. Ang alam niya lang ay kailangan nilang magkakapatid ng bodyguard. Simula pa pagkabata ay mayroon na silang bantay kaya hindi na malaking bagay sa kanya na palaging may nakasunod sa kanya.

“Oh, by the way, next week, we are going to celebrate the anniversary of Campbelland. You should be there.”

“Oh no, I can’t. I have a photoshoot in El Nido.”

“No, you should be there.”

“I can’t, Mom.”

“It’s in the evening. I’m sure you have already arrived in Manila.”

“I’d stay for one more night, then leave the next morning.”

“No, leave in the evening and go straight to Campbelland Tower.” Hindi papatalo ang mommy niya. Pinipilit talaga siya pero hindi rin siya magpapatalo.

“Hindi nga pwede, Mom, dahil may shoot pa ako kinabukasan-”

“Kianna Avarie!” Kapag buong pangalan na ang itinawag nito sa kanya, alam niyang hindi na nga ito dapat pang suwayin.

“Alright.” Labag sa loob na pagsuko niya. “I will try—”

“Be. There.” There was a finality in her mother’s voice. “Kung hindi ka magpupunta, ako mismo ang sisisante kay Evie!”

“No way!” Napatayo siya, tutol sa pagsisisante nito sa personal assistant niya. “I will come but don’t expect me to be early because I still have some things to do before I leave the island.”

“Okay, that’s enough. We will see you on our company’s anniversary.”

“And don’t expect me to stay longer and mingle with the employees. I need to rest, Mom.”

Matagal siyang tiningnan ng mommy niya bago bumuntonghininga at inirapan siya na para bang ang sakit niya talaga sa ulo.

THE BEAUTIFUL island of El Nido made her want to stay for another couple of days, but her mother kept on reminding her about the party tonight in Las Piñas. They finished their third shoot, and they were resting now.

“Kianna, is it true?” her co-model, Iris, asked.

Ibinaba niya ang ang sunglasses at tiningnan ito. Iris was wearing her revealing maroon one piece, and her cleavage was waving at all the people around them. Mapa-foreigner o Pinoy, napapatingin talaga rito dahil sobrang agaw eksena. Kanina ay nakita niya ito na nakatalikod, labas ang magkabilang pisngi ng pang-upo.

“What?”

“Kielton Grande’s band will perform tonight on the anniversary of your family’s company?” Iris giggled.

Hindi naman ito nakikipaglapit sa kanya nang husto, ngayon lang. Karibal ang tingin nito sa kanya pero ngayon ay animo gustong makipagkaibigan.

“Who’s that? I don’t know.” Ibinalik niya ang malaking salamin sa mata at itinuon ang atensyon sa kulay asul na tubig dagat na nasa harapan.

Kianna was comfortably laying in the sun lounger, next to her was Ate Evie. They were both enjoying the view and her mood was starting to get ruined with Iris’ presence.

“You don’t know him?” medyo dismayado nitong tanong. “You better go with me next time at D’ Club and meet Kielton and his friends.”

“I’m not interested.” Like how I’m not interested in talking to you.

“Well, maybe he’s not really your type. Mayayaman din yata ang tipo mo katulad niyo.” Pumuwesto ito sa kabilang sun lounger. “But I like to get near him again.”

“Okay.” She shrugged, cutting off that boring conversation.

“Can you help me?”

Umirap siya. Does this woman really think they are friends?

“Help you with what?”

“Can I go with you tonight to your company’s party?”

“Kianna, hindi pwede ang outsider do’n,” bulong ni Ate Evie sa kanya. “Mahigpit ang seguridad dahil sa mga bisita ng daddy mo.”

Narinig ’yon ni Iris kahit na ang hina na ng boses ni Evie.

“I’m sure I can enter because I’m friends with Campbell’s daughter, right, Kianna?” Sinulyapan niya si Iris na may magandang ngiti sa kanya.

“As far as I remember, we are not friends, Iris. I don’t even remember you treating me as your friend. So, no.”

“How dare you…” Napabangon ito, nagalit sa sinabi niya. Nagsasabi lang siya ng totoo, ’no!

“At, ’wag mong makanti-kanti ’yang alaga ko, Miss Iris. Ako ang makakalaban mo,” singit ni Ate Evie na bumangon na rin, handang-handa siyang protektahan sa magtatankang manakit sa kanya.

Samantalang siya ay komportable lang na nakahiga ro’n, walang pakialam sa nanggigigil na itsura ni Iris.

“May problema ba?” tanong ni Kuya Renato nang lapitan sila.

Naka-summer outfit ito. Pinagpalit niya ito ng uniporme na palaging gamit dahil ayaw niyang kumuha sila ng atensyon sa lugar na ’yon, na sa beach lang ay may bodyguard pa siyang dala.

“Wala, Renato.” Si Ate Evie ang sumagot, kaya umalis lumayo rin kaagad ang guwardiya niya.

Kianna yawned dryly. She was annoying Iris, showing to this woman that she’s not threatened with her anger towards her.

“What’s with that…” Nakalimutan niya ang pangalan na binanggit ni Iris. “… whoever is that man’s name. What’s with him? Why do you like to get near him?”

“Because I like him,” Iris answered simply.

“Ex-boyfriend?”

“No.”

“Ano lang?”

“It’s adult stuff, Kianna. You wouldn’t understand.”

“Kung hindi mo sasabihin, hindi kita tutulungan na makita ang lalaking ’yon,” aniya, inignora ang tingin nito sa kanya na masyado siyang bata para hindi maintindihan ang ginagawa ng matatanda sa kanya.

Bumalik sa pagkakaupo si Iris, kumalma na.

“I had a one-night stand with him,” Iris trailed off. “I can’t forget him. He’s so good.”

“Dapat kasi ginalingan mo rin para hindi siya lumayo sa ’yo,” payo niya pa na akala mo ay may karanasan na siya sa ganoong bagay.

“Kahit gaano pa kagaling ang babae, balewala sa kanya ’yon. Kielton has a rule when it comes to his women, and he always follows it.”

“What are these rules?” She’s getting curious.

“It’s only a one-night stand. After that, he will forget you.”

“And that’s what that asshole did to you? He forgot you after a one-night stand with him?” Kianna was disgusted. “He’s not worth your time, Iris. Forget it. Hindi na kita isasama sa party.”

“But Kianna… I want him so bad. You don’t understand me. I think I’m in love with him.” Iris looked problematic.

Pero buo na ang desisyon niya. Hindi niya ito isasama para mailayo sa gano’ng klaseng lalaki! Hindi niya ipapahamak ang kapwa niya babae. ’Yon na lang ang tangi niyang magagawa para matulungan si Iris.

“You’re not in love with him, Iris. Siguro ay sobrang galing lang niya sa kama kaya hindi mo siya makalimutan.”

“He is. He’s really good. He has an expert pierced tongue. Oh, geez, the rumors were right. Kielton Grande is a beast in bed that you won’t forget everything that he did to you.”

Kianna cringed. How did Iris manage to tell her that private matter? And she sounded so proud that she had a one-night stand with that asshole. She couldn’t believe this.

Was that lust over love? Mas nangingibabaw na ba talaga ang makamundong pagnanasa kaysa sa tunay at purong pagmamahal?

Ang pagmamahal ay napakasagrado para sa kanya. Hindi niya ’yon basta-basta ibibigay sa isang lalaking walang kasiguraduhan sa kanya. Sa pag-ibig, kailangan maging matatag ng puso natin dahil ang pagmamahal mismo ang sisira sa atin kapag hindi tayo nag-ingat.

Maling pagmamahal sa maling tao, ’yan ang ayaw niyang maranasan. Sana ay maiwasan niya kung darating man iyon sa kanya. Sana.

IT WAS very tiring, but she needed to attend the party. Gabi na nang makalapag sila sa Maynila. Nagpahatid pa siya sa mansyon nila para makapag-shower at naroon din ang susuotin niya.

“I don’t need you there, Ate Evie. Magpahinga ka na,” aniya habang tinutulungan siya nitong ayusin ang kanyang buhok.

Evie was curling the tip of her ash-gray hair while she’s doing her own makeup in front of her vanity mirror in her bedroom.

“Sigurado ka, ha?”

“Yes.”

“Paano si Iris? Baka nag-aabang ’yon sa tower.”

She paused from putting a nude lipstick. She pouted her lips to check if the lipstick was enough or she needed to put more.

“Kahit ano pa ang pagmamakaawang gawin niya, hindi ko pa rin siya isasama sa party. Iris doesn’t deserve that asshole.”

Kumukulo talaga ang dugo niya kapag naaalala ang mga kabaliwan ni Iris sa lalaking ’yon. Kahit gaano pa ka-guwapo, hindi pa rin tama na maglaro ng damdamin ng mga babae!

“Gwapo talaga kasi ’yon,” segunda ng kausap niya kaya inangatan niya ito ng kilay sa repleksyon ng salamin, pero dahil matagal na siya nitong alaga at kilala, hindi na umeepekto ang pagtataray niya. “At balita ko, anak mayaman ’yon. Hindi ko lang sigurado kung totoo nga talaga.”

“I don’t really care.”

“Gano’n ang mga tipo mo, Kianna. May mga tattoo.”

Kianna arched her brow again. She admits, a man with tats attracts her, but it still depends on the tattoos and the man’s appearance as well. Ayaw niya ng sobrang burdado ang katawan na parang galing sa selda.

“But I hate womanizers very much!”

Tumango si Ate Evie. Alam nito kung gaano katindi ang disgusto niya sa mga babaero. Hindi kailanman siya ulit mahuhulog sa mga gano’n klaseng lalaki!

Kung hindi pa siya makatanggap ng tawag ulit galing sa mommy niya, hindi pa siya magmamadali na umalis sa mansyon.

From their mansion in Alabang Village, they traveled to Las Piñas. She’s with Kuya Renato and Pablo. Pablo became her driver. Ang dating driver niya ay isa na sa driver sa kumpanya nila kaya parang dalawa pa rin ang bodyguard niya kung tutuusin.

“Mommy, on the way na nga,” iritadong sagot niya dahil paulit-ulit ang ina sa pagpapaalala sa kanya na dumalo siya. “Here, talk to Kuya Renato para maniwala ka.”

Ibinigay niya ang cellphone sa bodyguard niya na nasa unahang upuan.

“Yes, Madam, on the way na kami,” she heard him say that, before he gave back her phone.

“Okay, see you soon, anak.”

“Okay, Mom.” Then she cut the line.

Ilang sandali pa nang makarating sila sa mataas na gusali ng Campbelland. This was the main branch office. Her favorite place in this building was the rooftop. When she gets bored at the party, she can spend her time on the rooftop while watching the city lights.

Binati kaagad siya ng mga guwardiya sa lobby nang makapasok siya. Behind her were her bodyguards.

“Good evening, Ma’am.”

Head high and chin up, she just nodded at the security.

“Kuya, okay na ako. Take your time na,” aniya sa dalawang guwardiya niya.

“Okay, Ma’am.”

Hinatid pa muna siya ni Kuya Renato sa elevator. Mag-isa siyang sumakay ro’n papunta sa palapag kung saan ginaganap ang anibersaryo ng kumpanya nila.

The elevator door opened on the right floor. Her cellphone vibrated inside her crystal purse while walking to the hallway.

Ate Amara is calling…

“Hello, Ate?” aniya nang sagutin ang tawag.

“Where are you, our little brat?” Medyo maingay na sa kabilang linya.

“Just arrived.”

“Oh, you’re not late, huh? That’s a miracle.”

“I don’t wanna go here! But Mommy forced me.”

Tinawanan lang ng kapatid ang sinabi niya bago nagpaalam.

Ilang hakbang pa lang ang nagagawa niya nang may tumawag sa kanyang pansin.

“Hey.” It was a man’s voice. She paused as she heard someone from behind. Wala naman siyang kasunod kaya na-alerto siya kung saan galing ang sinoman itong nagtangkang kunin ang pansin niya.

Slowly, she turned around to face him and she almost caught her breath when she saw a gorgeous man walking towards her direction. The black sleeveless shirt that was open on both sides he’s wearing revealed the flame tribal tattoo on his right forearm. He’s so tall that she felt small with her five and six eight inches height. His hair was in top knot style which she could only see on some of the male international models.

Hindi lahat ng lalaki ay deserve ang hair style na ’yon, pero sa lahat ng nakita niyang lalaki na nakatali ang buhok, itong isa sa harap niya ang pinakanagbigay kahulugan kung gaano kaangas at kalakas ang dating ng hair style na ’yon.

Pakiramdam niya ay hindi makatarungan ang sobrang pagiging magandang lalaki nito. He carried himself confidently and arrogantly, and it annoyed her for some reason.

Siguro ay dala ng inis, pagkabigla, kaba, pagod, at ang katotohanang hindi niya matanggap na naguguwapuhan siya sa lalaking kaharap ang nagdala sa kanya sa pagbato rito ng mga paratang na hindi niya rin inaasahan na lalabas galing sa kanyang bibig.

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER TWO

ANG LAKAS ng pintig ng puso niya. Hindi ’yon humupa kahit na nakatakas na siya sa lalaking ’yon! How dare him think that she’s some kind of a hooker?

Dapat pala ay sinampal niya! Kaya lang ay parang nanghihina ang mga tuhod niya nang ilapit nito ang mukha sa kanya, at naamoy niya pa na mabango ito. Natalo talaga siya.

“I want them to play that song. Can you tell them to play it?” Naabutan niya ang Ate Amara niya na may kausap na babae sa gilid ng stage.

“Ah, sige, Madam. Sasabihin ko sa lead vocalist.”

“Ate,” tawag pansin niya sa kapatid at bumeso.

“Oh, you’re here. This is Allison by the way,” her sister introduced the pretty woman.

“Hello, Madam.” Kimi itong ngumiti at naglahad ng kamay.

Hindi niya ’yon tinanggap at tiningnan niya lang.

Her sister noticed her behavior. Pasimple siya nitong pinanlakihan ng mga mata.

“This is my sister, Kianna Avarie—”

“Call me Kianna,” she cut her sister off and shook the woman’s hand quickly. “Where’s Mom and Dad?”

“They are in the VIP area with his friends. There, that’s our table.” Itinuro nito ang pabilog na lamesa malapit sa stage.

Marami na ang tao at nagsisidatingan na rin ang iba pa. Kianna looked around and saw her older brother, Asher, wearing a dark tuxedo while talking to some old man, probably his business colleagues or investors.

It’s a formal themed party. Everyone who didn’t wear evening gowns for women and tuxedos for men would be out of place. Kaya naman nang nakita ang lalaki kanina sa hallway, na gano’n ang suot, talagang mapagkakamalan niyang taga-labas.

Where the hell is that freak by the way?

“Ano nga po ulit ’yung title?” tanong ng babae sa harap nila.

“Said I Loved You but I Lied,” Amara answered with a smile.

“Ah, I remember, Kielton made a cover of that song.”

“Yes, I watched it. It already gained millions of views online.”

“Yes, Madam.” Magiliw na nag-usap ang dalawa na animo magkakilala.

“Come on. Let’s go, Ate.” She hugged her sister’s arm and pulled her away from that girl.

“Allison is the manager of ColdHeart band, Kianna. You shouldn’t treat her that way.”

“I don’t care, Ate. And…” Huminto siya at hinarap ang kapatid. “… At least I shook her hand even if I didn’t want to.”

Napabuntonghininga lang ito. Amara was wearing a burgundy ball gown and high heeled sandals.

“Still, that’s not the right way to introduce yourself. Introducing yourself is also introducing our family. You don’t want people to give us a bad impression, right?”

Nang dumaan ang waiter ay kumuha siya ng wine sa tray na dala at nagpatuloy sa paglalakad papunta sa lamesa nila. Their visitors greeted them, but she just smiled at them.

“I don’t live to impress people.”

She didn’t really give a damn if some people or even their employees didn’t like her attitude. Hangga’t wala siyang nasasaktan, wala siyang dapat ipag-alala. Some people were just demanding sometimes.

Asher arrived at their table after a few minutes. She kissed her brother’s cheek and gave him a glass of white expensive wine on their table. Tatlo pa lang silang magkakapatid na naroon, wala pa ang magulang nila.

“Let’s get this party started,” inip na sabi niya sa mga kapatid. “I want to lay on my bed na.”

“Can we ask for ColdHeart to start performing? Daddy’s still in the meeting with Mom,” Amara asked Asher. “Even just one song to entertain us and the visitors.”

Her eyes narrowed at Amara’s enthusiasm to see that band performing.

“Yeah, tell that to their manager.”

“Ako na ang magpupunta sa backstage,” prisinta pa ng ate niya.

“Go ahead.” Asher seemed like he didn’t really care with the band though. Pareho lang sila. She loves music, but right now, she’d rather be in bed. Oh well, maybe good music would set her mood on fire.

Ilang sandali pa ay nakita niya na sa stage ang pagse-set up ng mga kagamitan ng bandang magpe-perform. Their staffs helped them out to set up the piano, drums, bass, and the microphone.

Wala pa mang lumalabas na miyembro ng banda ay naging masigasig ang mga empleyado nila lalo na ’yung mga bata ang edad na malamang ay pamilyar sa bandang magpe-perform para sa gabing ’yon.

“I can’t wait to see him in person!” Kahit may kalayuan naman ang lamesa nila sa ibang empleyado, naririnig niya ang mga usapan ng iilang grupo, partikular ay mga kababaihan.

“Sobrang gwapo daw niyan sa personal. At, ang hot!”

“But maybe the rumors were true. Babaero daw talaga si Kielton.”

“Sino naman kasing babae ang tatanggi sa kanya? Kulay pa lang ng mga mata niya ay mahuhulog ka na!”

Umirap lang siya at humalukipkip, naiinip na talaga. Amara didn’t come back yet, napako na yata sa backstage.

“Kuya, ang tagal!”

“You’re just early,” kalmado nitong sabi, hindi apektado sa pagkainip niya.

“Everyone, since our boss is still in their urgent meeting, let us entertain you with good music,” the host said after a long while. She’s in the center of the stage, holding her own wireless mic. “Let’s give them applause, ColdHeart!”

Nakahalukipkip na pagod niyang tiningnan ang mga empleyado nila nang magsitayuan pa ang mga ito at magpalakpakan na akala mo talaga ay nasa concert ng isang sikat na banda! She didn’t even know the name of that band!

Isa-isa nang nagsilabasan ang mga miyembro at lumakas pa lalo ang ingay ng humigit dalawang daan na empleyado nila na nandoon. They have many real estate sales agents, broker-dealers, etc. all over the country, and these two hundred people were just only from Metro Manila.

Ang apat na lalaki ay kumaway lang nang bahagya bago magsipunta sa kani-kanilang instrumentong gagamitin.

Annoyed with the scream and giggles from those people around her, she put her hands under her chin and stared blankly at the stage. Alright, these four men were good looking, she’s sure that’s the reason why the crowd became aggressive.

The lights of the stage became dimmed, and everyone screamed even more especially when someone showed up from the dark and made his way to the center of the stage, where the microphone stand was located.

Sporting a white long sleeve that hugged the muscles on his arms, the spotlight suddenly struck in his direction, making his face revealed to the crowd.

Napatuwid ulit siya sa pagkakaupo at parang namamalikmata na tinitigan niya nang maigi ang lead vocalist. His top knot hair style, the mysterious glimpse in his grayish expressive eyes, and the ghost smile that was always plastered on his lips, she’s sure as hell that… it’s him!

“Happy anniversary, Campbellanders! Thank you for inviting us. We are ColdHeart.”

Hindi maawat sa ingay ang mga empleyado nila na halos hindi na maintindihan ang sinabi ng lalaki.

Isa-isa nitong ipinakilala ang mga ka-banda na halata niyang sanay na sanay na tinitilian dahil habang nagpapakilala ay natatawa nang bahagya. She then realized how beautiful his speaking voice was with or without a mic.

His speaking voice was husky. It’s natural.

“I love you, Kielton!” a woman screamed on the other side and giggled. Rinig na rinig niya ang hagikhikan ng mga babae. Napapairap siya.

“I love you, too,” Kielton responded playfully.

“Liar,” she murmured.

Kielton strummed his guitar. Hindi niya napapansin na pinipigil niya pala ang hininga habang naghihintay na marinig ang boses nito kung maganda ba talaga dahil halata naman na fans nito ang mga empleyado nila, lalo na ang mga babae.

“Our first song is requested by Miss Amara,” Kielton said, and his eyes suddenly went to their table.

Naupo siya nang tuwid at parang natataranta, lalo na nang sa kanya dumeretso ang mga mata nito nang hindi nakita sa tabi niya si Amara.

Kielton brows shot up arrogantly. Then, the side of his lips curved up, he leered at her, as if telling her that she’s not worthy of his attention. How dare him?!

Wala na talaga siya sa mood at iritado na dahil sa ipinamalas na tingin sa kanya ng lalaking ’to. Gusto niya mang umalis ay napako na siya sa kanyang inuupuan nang marinig pa lang ang unang lyrics ng kanta ay para na siyang lihim na hinihipnotismo.

Tumahimik ang crowd at dinama ang magandang boses na ’yon. At hindi niya inaasahan na pati siya ay matatahimik na lang at makukuntento na makinig at panoorin ito kung paanong ang bawat bigkas ng liriko ay may emosyon. Hindi niya maitanggi na… gusto niya, gusto niyang manatili at makinig na lang.

You came to me like the drawn through the night

Just shinin’ like the sun

Out of my dreams and into my life

You are the one, you are the one

Then Kielton closed his eyes and swayed his body a bit, and slowly, sumasabay sa tugtog.

Said I loved you, but I lied

Cause this is more than love I feel inside

Said I loved you but I was wrong

Cause love could never ever feel so strong

Maybe, it was an old song, but he owned it like it’s his… He has his own version, and she has to admit this, she loved listening to him. It’s soothing. Para siyang dinadala sa ibang mundo… mundo na silang dalawa lang ang nakakaalam.

No wonder his fans were really into him. O mas tamang sabihin na nakaka-in love ang boses nito at lalong ma-i-in love sa itsura. He’s indeed a good catch. He’s a total package. Talented and gifted. This bastard was lucky, huh.

When Kielton opened his eyes, his vision went to her directly. Namumungay ang mga mata nito, ngunit nakikita niya ang mayabang na multong ngiti sa labi.

What was he thinking, huh? Naramdaman ba nito na gusto niya ang boses nito? No way! She would never ever tell him that she loved listening to him!

So many reasons in so many ways

My life has just begun

He sang those lyrics without breaking his eye contact with her.

Need you forever, I need you to stay

You are the one, you are the one…

Walang nakapigil sa hindi normal na pintig ng kanyang puso. Sa inis dahil nararamdaman niya ’yon ay matindi niyang inirapan si Kielton. Ipinaramdam niya rito na hindi siya apektado sa titig nito na tila ba hinihila siya para mahulog sa bitag nito.

DAPAT ay nakauwi na siya, hindi ba? Especially that her father was done with his speech. But she chose to stay and drink some good wine even though she’s alone at their table. Her family was busy socializing with their employees and some of their tycoon VIP guests.

Mula sa kanyang magulang at sa dalawang kapatid, normal na rito ang makipag-usap sa mga tao, mababa, pantay, o pareho man ang agwat ng pamumuhay sa kanila. Sa klase ng negosyo ng pamilya, normal lang ang pakikipag-usap sa iba’t ibang klaseng tao lalo na sa kanilang mga empleyado.

Their employees were one of the reasons why Campbelland, a real estate company, became a part of the top list in the country’s best and trustworthy in building residential real estate.

Unlike her, she didn’t really talk much to their employees. Not that she didn’t like to socialize with them, it’s just that maybe she’s not born like the rest of her family who has a heart to communicate with people. She’s also aware that some of their employees didn’t really like her, but who cares by the way? That’s her. If they couldn’t deal with her attitude, then it’s fine. Only a few people love her and can understand her, and she stays with those people.

Gano’n naman talaga ang buhay, ’di ba? Manatili at piliin natin makasama ang mga taong nagmamahal sa ’tin at huwag nang pansinin pa ang mga hindi kayang tanggapin kung sino at ano ka.

She’s not rude with their employees. Snob lang talaga siya at wala nang magagawa ang mga ito kahit magalit pa sa kanya. Hindi niya na lang papansinin at hindi siya papaapekto.

“Hmm…”

A simple hum behind her made her jump a bit from her chair. How could that simple sound become familiar to her that easily? Simpleng hmm lang naman ang binanggit, alam niya na kaagad kung kanino galing!

Dahan-dahan niyang nilingon ang nasa likuran niya kaya lang ay hindi pa masyado nababali ang leeg niya ay humakbang na ito papunta sa gilid niya.

Kielton was towering her with his probably six feet and four inches height, his large body frame, and with those obvious muscles that protruded in the sleeves of his clothes. Pakiramdam niya ay kayang-kaya siya nitong buhatin at dalhin kung saan nito gusto, lalo na nang nakita niya kanina ang muscles nito sa braso nang nasa hallway sila… Ang hitik na mga ugat do’n ay hindi talaga nakaligtas sa mata niya.

“Can I join you?” he asked confidently, as if he expected everyone to say yes to him.

“No, this is our family table. You’re not a part of my family. So, no.”

Huh, akala siguro nito ay katulad siya ng mga babaeng tumitili rito at patay na patay. He’s really full of himself. She couldn’t stand that kind of confidence.

And even though he’s just standing there, and his full attention was on her, his presence really catches attention from people around them. Sa gilid ng mga mata niya ay napapansin niya ang iilang empleyado na medyo nagtutulakan na para bang gustong magpa-picture dito, kaya lang ay naroon siya, hindi magawa ang plano.

“How can I be part of your family, then?” There was a hint of playfulness in his voice, and she felt her cheeks burn slightly at that.

What’s he trying to say? This man was really annoying!

Para itago ang hindi inaasahang pag-init ng pisngi, tiningala niya ito at pinanliitan ng mga mata. The ghost arrogant smile on his lips made her grip on her wine glass to control herself to tell him to stop that damn smile. Naiirita siya!

“You could be part of our family in your dreams. So, start sleeping and dream about that.”

Kielton laughed a bit, that expectedly, it caught attention. Umirap siya sa hangin nang mapansin ang tinginan ng mga tao sa gawi nila at nag-umpisa na ang mga bulungan.

“I’d rather dream about you though,” he meaningfully muttered, and his eyes shamelessly dropped down to her chest.

Bahagyang tumaas ang kilay nito, na parang lihim na sinasabing aprubado rito ang laki ng kanyang dibdib. Pakiramdam niya ay namanhid ang ulo niya sa ginawa nito. It was just a quick glance, but she got really affected!

Napaayos siya sa pagkakaupo, tumuwid, umaasa na maitatago ang cleavage niya, pero hindi naman nangyari, bagkos, nabigyan pa ito lalo ng kalayaan na tingnan ’yon dahil nakatayo ito sa gilid niya.

“Why are you here, huh? Are you going to ask me to say sorry for accusing you?” she asked, wanting to get rid of him, para bumalik na sa ayos ang paghinga niya at mawala ang kaba na hindi niya alam kung bakit kinakabahan siya sa lalaking ito!

“Unluckily, I don’t accept an apology easily.”

“Okay, then, you can leave now.” She ended their conversation just like that. She then sipped on her wine, ignoring his presence near her.

“Do you really think I would let that pass?” Napaangat siya ng tingin dito nang mahimigan ang iritasyon sa boses. “Do I really look like a fucking thief to you?”

Oh, she guessed someone’s ego got bruised.

Oo nga naman, ’no? Ang gwapong magnanakaw naman nito kung gano’n. Kaya lang, sobrang taranta at kaba niya kanina, hindi na siya nakapag-isip nang maayos.

Sa totoo lang, ito ang may kasalanan kasi bigla na lang sumulpot sa tahimik at walang ibang taong hallway!

“’Di ba, you said you don’t accept an apology? Kaya, hindi na ako magso-sorry sa ’yo.” Sabay irap niya, hindi papatalo at hindi binibigyan pansin ang pagiging iritado nito.

“… and it was your fault. Ginulat mo ako. What do you expect me to do, huh?”

“Ako pa ang may kasalanan ngayon?” Hindi ito makapaniwala. Nararamdaman niyang gusto na nitong umupo sa bakanteng upuan para lang maharap siya nang maayos at idiin sa kanya ang kasalanan niya.

But the bastard was good at controlling himself. He seemed like he liked attention, but at that moment, he knew his place. Hindi ito uupo dahil pinagbawalan niya. Nanatiling nakatayo ito at mauubusan pa yata ng pasensya sa naririnig galing sa kanya.

“Yes.”

“You little witch,” he murmured, annoyed.

“Call me whatever you want. I don’t really care.” And she rolled her eyes on him.

“You have to pay for humiliating me.”

He’s overacting!

“Tayong dalawa lang naman ang nakarinig, ha? It wasn’t humiliating!”

“It was.”

“Then, what do you want, huh?”

Naiinis na siya sa pagdidiin nito ng kamalian niya at para matapos na ang usapan ay ibibigay niya na ang gusto nito! They were already catching attention. She loved attention but not with this man.

Kielton leaned his body closer to her. He placed his one hand at the backrest of her chair, and the other one with a wine glass was placed above the table. He’s simply closing their distance.

Then, he cocked his head on the side, giving her a full view of his face, or maybe he was giving himself a full view of hers. Whatever. Their distance made her feel uncomfortable, but she was thrilled.

“Date me,” he whispered, and she closed her eyes lightly when she smelled his minty breath. It felt like something inside her was tickling her, kinda weird.

“Why would I do that…” Her soft voice made her leer at herself.

“That’s the only thing you can do for me to forgive you.”

“But I don’t ask for forgiveness.”

Marahan itong napapikit sa sagot niya, parang humuhugot ng kaunti pang pasensya. When Keilton opened his eyes, she then realized how expressive his grayish eyes were. The foreign blood that ran in him made him even more attractive. She’s sure he’s not a pure Filipino.

If there was an event and Kielton blended with a crowd full of handsome men, he would surely still stand out. His face was just so hard to ignore.

“But I want to date you.” His speaking voice was husky, and now that he added a husk on it, para na siyang nanghihina. Hindi na yata niya kayang tumanggi sa gusto nitong mangyari.

It’s just a date, right?

“I don’t go on a date if it’s not in a fancy restaurant or in a five-star hotel,” she reminded him. “Can you afford that?”

What’s his job again? A lead vocalist? How much was he earning again?

“Yes.”

Umangat ang isang kilay niya, medyo duda, pero malay niya ba kung magkano ang kinikita nito? Baka afford nga.

“Okay—”

“But I won’t bring you to those fancy restaurants,” he cut her off. “Ako ang nag-aya, kaya ako ang masusunod.”

“And where are you going to bring me? In those cheap restaurants? No way!” She cringed and pushed his face again because he’s moving closer to hers. Their distance was so close that it’s choking her!

Napabuntonghininga lang ito sa pagtulak niya sa mukha nito, pero ibinalik pa rin ang tingin sa kanya, sa mas may sapat na agwat sa pagitan nila.

“Ayoko sa cheap!” dagdag niya pa.

Kielton sighed again.

“Baby, let me handle our first date. Okay?” malumanay na sambit nito.

She gasped. What did he call her again? Baby? For sure that’s his endearment on his women!

“I’m not your baby!”

Kielton pursed his lips, then nodded his head slightly.

“Tomorrow night then?”

“Okay,” she agreed and crossed her arms above her chest. Hindi nakatakas sa mata niya ang pagsulyap nito sa kanyang dibdib. “And stop glancing at my boobs. Alam kong malaki pero huwag mong ipahalata na gusto mo!”

“Yeah, just making sure if it would fit on my palm.”

Uminit ang buong mukha niya at sa kahihiyan ay sinipa niya ito sa ilalim ng lamesa. Saktong sa alulod ng binti ito tinamaan kaya kaagad itong napa-igik. Buti nga!

Everyone’s attention suddenly went to them and maybe, they also witnessed how she kicked this gorgeous but perverted man!

“What’s happening here? Are you alright, Mr. Grande?” Amara attended quickly.

“Yes, thank you.” Kielton smiled at her sister, and she didn’t like him smiling at her sister!

“Ate, we are fine. Just go back to your business,” she assured Amara, but deep inside, she just really wanted her sister to leave them.

Pansamantala muna siyang tiningnan ng ate niya bago tumango. Nagpaalam din ito kay Kielton. At nang silang dalawa na lang ng binata ay kinastigo niya kaagad ito!

“At nagpapa-cute ka pa talaga sa kapatid ko! Pangiti-ngiti ka pa!”

Kielton lips parted a bit, hindi inaasahan ang sinabi niya.

“Maybe it wasn’t me that you wanted, it’s my sister. You’re just using me as a bridge to get near her!”

Nang matawa ito ay lalo lang siyang nainis.

“I don’t use other people to get what I want.” He played with his wine on the glass. Then, his eyes caught hers effortlessly. “Huwag mong pagselosan ang kapatid mo kasi ikaw lang ang gusto ko.”

Gusto niya pang magprotesta kaya lang ay inuna niyang pakalmahin ang kalabog ng kanyang dibdib.

This freak really thinks that she’s jealous? Dream on, Kielton Grande.

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER THREE

THE benefit of being a freelance model was you didn’t have a boss but yourself. She didn’t even treat her agent as her boss, though, because Zabel was her friend. Ito ang nagbibigay sa kanya ng mga raket. Marami na itong karanasan sa pagmomodelo. Isa ito sa nagsisilbing guro niya sa modeling industry.

They were in one of the suites in Altaraza Hotel for a not so famous magazine for men. They were not really the cover, since the cover of the magazine was a famous international model, Riva. Their photos would be inside the magazine with little details about them.

Tatlo lang silang models—siya, si Iris, at si Zabel. Iris was now above the bed, sporting a lacy brassiere and panty, doing her best in front of the camera and lights. Si Zabel ay tapos nang kuhanan kaya pwede na itong mag-relax.

Evie was now doing her hair and makeup. Sa harap na salamin ay nakita niya ang repleksyon ni Zabel na palapit sa kanya. They were both wearing a silk maroon robe.

“Kianna, are you free tonight?” Zabel asked, standing beside her.

“No.”

She remembered that she has a date with Kielton tonight. Well, she could cancel that date though. Pumayag lang naman siya sa gusto ng binata para matapos na ang usapan nila at baka ang pakikipag-date niya rin ang dahilan para humilom ang nasugatang ego ng lalaking ’yon.

“I’d like to invite you to D’ Club. I have a VIP pass. Hindi ka naman pala pwede.”

Kianna heard a lot about that club, but she hasn’t tried to go there. Mas madalas siya sa high-end bar and club with celebrities and high-profiled persons partying with her.

“Maybe next time?”

“You must try D’ Club. It isn’t a cheap club like what you think, Kianna. You know, the owner of this hotel, Altarazas, used to go to that club to chill. Kaibigan din nila ang may-ari.”

“You know too much, huh.”

“Of course,” Zabel chortled. “D’ Club is my favorite place to party and, at the same time, to get relaxed. Magugustuhan mo do’n. Bukod sa alam mo na, handsome men…” Zabel winked at her.

Kianna snorted. She’s not really interested but Zabel seemed to be telling her the truth na maganda nga marahil sa club na ’yon. Pwede niyang subukan sa susunod.

“I’m free this weekend. Bring me to that club.”

“With Iris?” Tiningnan nila ang kapwa modelo na nakaupo na sa kama. Patapos na ito dahil tinitingnan na ang mga shot.

“It’s up to you. I don’t mind partying with Iris around.”

“Iris is a regular in D’ Club, may hina-hunting.”

“Boys hunting?”

“Yes, but not boys. Iris only wants one man now.”

“Kilala ko kung sino,” aniya nang maalala ang kagustuhan ni Iris na makalapit ulit sa Kielton na ’yon.

“She’s crazy over him.” Zabel smirked at Iris. “I warned her before about that man, Kielton, but she didn’t listen.”

“You know Kielton?”

Natawa si Zabel nang bahagya sa tanong niyang ’yon na para bang nakakatawa talaga na itinanong niya ’yon.

“Don’t tell me you don’t know that Kielton Grande?”

“I just met him last night at Campbelland’s anniversary. They performed there.”

“Nakaka-in love ang boses, ’di ba?” Naging agresibo si Zabel. Humila ito ng isang upuan at umupo sa gilid niya. “Yung tipong kahit nakapikit ka at pakinggan mo lang ang boses niya, mahuhulog ka na, tapos gano’n pa siya ka-gwapo. Ang hot pa niya lalo dahil sa mga tattoo niya!”

Nagkatinginan sila ni Ate Evie sa salamin at nagkibit lang ito ng balikat. Naikwento niya rito ang tungkol sa pag-aaya sa kanya ni Kielton ng date mamayang gabi.

Hindi niya naman akalain na pati si Zabel ay kilala ang lalaking ’yon at halatang humahanga. Kung wala lang boyfriend si Zabel, iisipin niyang magkaribal ito at si Iris.

“Maganda ang boses niya,” tangi niyang nasabi. Ayaw niyang purihin ang lalaking ’yon!

“You sounded like a bitter kid.” Zabel laughed and shook her head. “Kielton is womanizer, well, I know, you don’t like his kind. I know how much you hate playboys.”

“Bulag lang ang mahuhulog sa kanya at tatanggapin ang napakaraming babaeng naikama niya.”

“You can’t blame him, Kianna. Women flocked on his feet. There’s a lot of gossips about him about women. Bawat mall tour at gig daw niyan, palaging may kasamang babae pagkatapos.”

“See? He really doesn’t know how to respect women!” Her voice raised a bit. Napaigtad pa si Ate Evie sa likod niya na tinatapos na ang pagkulot sa dulo ng kanyang buhok.

“Hindi mo nga siya masisisi dahil babae ang lumalapit sa kanya. Tingnan mo ’yang si Iris, isa lang ’yan sa naikama niya na hanggang ngayon ay hindi siya makalimutan. May hikaw daw kasi ’yan sa dila…”

She glared at Zabel when her lips formed an evil smile. Ano ba ang iniisip nitong kaibigan niya?

“Ano naman kung may hikaw siya sa dila?” iritadong tanong niya. Hindi niya gusto ang naririnig tungkol kay Kielton. He’s so gross!

“Masarap daw ’yan dumila ng ano…” Humalakhak si Zabel nang kumunot ang noo niya.

“What?” Nilingon niya ito kaya nahinto si Evie sa paghawak sa buhok niya.

“Ate Evie, can I tell it to Kianna? Hindi ba bawal?” paalam pa ni Zabel.

“I’m not a kid! If it’s adult stuff, then tell me, Zab.”

“Hindi ko kinukusinti itong alaga ko sa pakikipag-usap tungkol sa bagay na ’yan pero maigi na rin na may alam siya kahit papano,” ani Evie.

Zabel moved closer to reach her ear and whispered, “Pussy licker daw ’yang si Kielton.”

Pakiramdam niya ay hindi lang buong mukha niya ang uminit, pati na rin ang leeg at batok niya!

“You’re blushing,” Zabel laughed and pinched her cheek lightly. “Now, you know the reason why Iris never forgot Kielton until now. Ang alam ko ay noong nakaraang buwan pa nangyari ’yong sa kanila. Dapat ay nakalimutan niya na.”

Hindi siya kaagad nakapagsalita. Binalot na ang isip niya ng napakarumi at makasalanang imahe ni Kielton na dumidila ng ano! How dirty! Kadiri!

“’Yan marahil ang isa sa dahilan kung bakit maraming babae ang hindi makalimot sa kanya at binabalik-balikan siya. Mahilig daw kasi ’yan sa gano’n… Well, women love to be eaten.”

“Not me!” she disagreed. She found it really gross and embarrassing.

“Sinasabi mo lang ’yan kasi hindi mo pa nararanasan.”

“Kaya dapat bago ka bumigay sa isang lalaki, siguraduhin mo na kaya ka niyang panindigan. Okay?” pangaral sa kanya ni Ate Evie. “Hindi ’yong pagkatapos na may nangyari sa inyo ay kakalimutan ka na lang. Kagaya ni Keilton, gano’n siya sa mga babae. Mag-ingat ka sa lalaking ’yon. ’Wag kang magpapadala sa kagwapuhan.”

Hindi niya maisip na aabot sila ni Kielton sa gano’n. Pagkatapos ng date nila, hindi niya na hahayaan na makalapit ulit sa kanya ang lalaki. Mas magandang maaga pa ay bakuran niya na ang sarili niya sa mga katulad ni Kielton.

“Kianna, it’s your turn.” Iris went to them after a while.

“Okay na ’yan. Sobra na ’yang ganda mo.” Si Ate Evie na tulungan siyang hubarin ang roba niya nang tumayo siya.

Wearing a lacy hot red brassiere and underwear, she made her way to the king-sized bed. Her cleavage was in full bloom. Nakinig siya sa mga sinasabi ng photographer kung anong posisyon ba ang napunta sa kanya.

“Knees on the bed, darling…” The photographer was gay and very professional. “Since you have an angelic face, you don’t need to smile. Just form your lips with a small smirk…”

She did it, forming her red lips with a small smirk and tilted her head on the side a bit. While she was kneeling above the bed, her legs were a bit parted.

Nakatutok sa kanya ang ilaw at nag-umpisa na siyang kuhanan ng photographer.

“Mas maganda ka pa sa ibang artista na nakatrabaho ko,” puri sa kanya ng photographer makalipas lang ang ilang minutong shots at poses. Tinitingnan nila ang kuha niya.

“Thank you.”

“You can send your portfolio to me, Kianna. Ang klase ng ganda mo ang dapat na mas nabibigyan ng chance sa modeling industry.”

“Oh, sure.”

“Hep, hep, ako ang manager niyan ni Kianna,” ani Zabel na lumapit na sa kanila. “Ako na ang magse-send ng portfolio niya sa ’yo. Gusto kong sumikat na itong kaibigan ko, sayang naman ang ganda nito.”

“Maliit lang ang talent fee niyo, buti at napagtiyatiyagaan mo,” ani ng photographer.

“Naku, Mamsh, hindi niyan kailangan ng pera. Anak mayaman ’yan.” Hindi niya na napigilan si Zabel sa pagmamalaki sa kanya.

“Halata naman. Tingnan mo naman ang kutis, mala-porcelana. At ang mukha…” Bahagyang hinawakan ng photographer ang pisngi niya. “Walang pores, walang tigyawat kahit isa, o.”

Natawa siya at napailing.

“Sana all mayaman ’no, Mamsh.” Si Zabel.

“Nako, sinabi mo pa, Zabel. Itong si Kianna ’yung nakita ko kanina sa lobby na bumaba sa Mercedes Benz V Class. May dalawang bodyguard pa na nakasunod sa kanya. Big time ’tong alaga mo, ha.”

“Kaibigan ko ’to, proud ako dito.” Sabay yakap sa kanya ni Zabel. Nang-uuto pa talaga ang gaga.

It’s true then, though. Zabel and Evie were her only trusted friends. Si Evie ay matagal nang naninilbihan sa kanila bata pa lang siya at isa ito talaga sa itinuring niyang kaibigan din.

“They own Campbelland!” Zabel added proudly.

“Oh, really? I bought a condo in Campbelland. Sa inyo pala ’yon, Kianna.”

“Yes.”

“See? Mayaman talaga ’yang babaeng ’yan.” Si Zabel ulit. “Magandang career at love life na lang ang kulang, perfect na ang buhay niya.”

“Okay, I will help you girls with your career. Ikaw na lang, Zabel, ang kokontakin ko kapag may nakuha akong magandang project. Don’t forget to send me your portfolios.”

“Copy that, Mamsh!” Si Zabel at bumeso na rito.

Ilang sandali pa ay tuluyan na silang natapos para sa photoshoot na ’yon. She had her merienda in Altaraza hotel restaurant together with Evie. Sina Iris at Zabel ay sumabay sa sasakyan ng photographer nila.

“Tuloy ka mamaya?” tanong ni Ate Evie.

“Yes.”

“’Wag kang marupok, ha. Ang guwapo pa naman niyon ni Kielton baka bumigay ka kaagad. Naku, sinasabi ko sa ’yo, problema ’yan.”

“Don’t worry, okay? I don’t like him. Baka nga siya itong may gusto sa ’kin. Tingnan mo, inaya niya akong mag-date.”

She’s confident that Kielton likes her. Cause why not? She has almost everything that a woman could ask for. She knew that she caught Kielton’s attention last night. Alam niya ang karakas ng mga lalaking nagkakagusto sa kanya.

Mahirap lang sa iba na paniwalaan na may gusto sa kanya si Kielton dahil kilala itong gusto ang lahat ng babae, parang walang pinipili. But her instinct tells her that Kielton has something for her.

If it’s love at first sight or lust at first sight, she needed to make sure, and she wanted to know. Kaya, itutuloy niya ang date nila para malaman niya at ma-basted kaagad ang loko.

SIX IN the evening when Kianna received a text message from an unknown number. It was too early for a dinner date for her, she didn’t even know to herself why she was already prepared and so ready to go.

From: Unknown It’s me, Kielton. Are you ready?

There were missed calls from him, too. She was busy picking clothes to wear that she ignored her cellphone. Naupo muna siya sa kama at nagtipa ng reply sa lalaki.

To: Unknown Where did you get my number?

The freak replied quickly as if he’s been waiting for her response.

From: Unknown It doesn’t matter. I’m ready to pick you. I’m on my way, by the way.

Napatayo siya, hindi makapaniwala! Ang aga-aga pa!

To: Unknown You’re too excited to see me, huh. I’m not yet ready.

Nang i-send niya ’yon ay napairap lang siya sa sarili nang makita sa malaking salamin sa harap niya ang kabuuan.

Wearing a red bandage midi dress, she paired it with Jimmy Choo strappy sandals. Above the bed was her matte gold knot clutch bag from Bottega Veneta. Her hair was in a neat bun, making her face, neck, and cleavage revealed. She put on light makeup and nude lipstick to contradict with her eye-catching red dress.

“Not yet ready, ha…” she murmured to herself.

Muling nag-vibrate ang cellphone na nasa kamay at mabilis niyang nabasa ang mensahe.

From: Unknown Don’t impress me too much. ’Wag ka nang masyadong magpaganda. Sa ’yo lang ako titingin, don’t worry.

Then he put a smirk emoji at the end of his message. The nerve of this man?!

To: Unknown Ramdam na ramdam ko ’yung hangin hanggang dito. Hindi ka ba tinatangay diyan?

Ang reply nito ay ‘haha’ lang.

Kalaunan ay lumabas na siya sa kanyang silid. She properly walked down their grand staircase. Naabutan niya ang mommy niya sa living room, nanonood ng TV News.

“Mom.”

Nilingon siya nito at nakataas ang isang kilay nang pinasadahan ang kabuuan niya.

“You have a date?”

“Yes.”

“Date with who?”

“Can I make it private muna?”

Her mother’s eyes narrowed. Tumango rin naman ito sa huli.

“Papasundan kita kay Renato—”

“Mom,” reklamo niya. “I don’t need a bodyguard. Maayos na tao ’tong ka-date ko.”

How sure was she? Maayos? Si Kielton? Sabagay, mukha namang hindi siya ipapahamak ng binata. Medyo may pagkapilyo pero siguro naman ay hindi siya gagawan ng kahalayan. So, hindi niya kailangan ng bodyguard.

“Ikaw, ha?” She almost pointed a finger on her. “Baka boyfriend mo na ’yang ka-date mo at hindi mo lang sinasabi sa amin. Umamin ka, anak.”

“He’s not my boyfriend. Just a friend,” aniya na lang para payagan na siya. “Wala pa po akong balak mag-boyfriend ulit. Alam mo naman ’yon, ’di ba?”

Tumango ang mommy niya.

“Hindi ka pa ba nakaka-move on?”

“Hindi po sa gano’n, pero ayoko pa po talaga pumasok sa isang relasyon na hindi ako sigurado. Hindi pa ako handa.”

“That’s good. Huwag pumasok sa isang relasyon kung hindi sigurado. Tama ’yan, anak.” Lumapit ito sa kanya at inayos nang bahagya ang maayos niya nang buhok. “Sige na, umalis ka na at baka naiinip na ang ka-date mo.”

“Hayaan mo na siyang mainip.”

“Pahirapan mo ’yan, anak. ’Wag kang magpapahalik sa unang date.”

“Sa pangalawa, pwede na?” Humagikhik siya nang magaang kurutin siya ng ina sa baywang. “Just kidding, Mom.”

Maya-maya lang ay lumapit sa kanila si Nora para ipaalam na may bisita siya sa labas.

“Siya na ’yan.”

“Okay, have fun.”

She kissed her mother’s cheek before she went outside.

“Ma’am, nasa labas na si Mr. Grande,” imporma sa kanya ng gwardiya sa guard house nila. Binuksan nito ang gate at kaagad niyang nakita ang nakaparadang sasakyan do’n ni Kielton.

He’s arrogantly leaning on his atomic silver Lexus, sporting a dark brown long sleeve and black jeans. Kung bakit nakasandal lang naman ito sa mamahaling sasakyan, ang presko at ang yabang talaga ng dating.

She expected him to wear something formal to match with her classy dress, but he still rocked his smart casual outfit, as if he’s telling the world that he didn’t need to wear formal clothes to look handsome and hot, or to even impress women.

Hell, baka kahit nakahubad baro ito ay hahanga talaga ang kahit sino!

“Hindi ako sigurado kung sino ang unang matutunaw sa ating dalawa, ako ba o ikaw,” anito na nagpatigil sa mga mata niya sa masyadong halatang panunuri sa kabuuan ng kaharap. “Oh, I’m melting already.”

Ilang oras niya nga ulit makakasama ang lalaking ito? Bakit pakiramdam niya ay sinasabi nitong ang swerte-swerte niya at makaka-date niya ito? Imbes na dapat ay ang swerte nito dahil binigyan niya ng oras!

His confidence was eating her.

“Alam mo, hindi ko alam kung hanggang kailan ako tatagal na kasama ka—”

“Sasanayin kita,” putol nito sa kanya sabay alis sa pagkakasandal sa sasakyan.

Kielton opened the front seat tapos ay naglahad ng kamay sa kanya.

Her personal driver and bodyguards used to open the door for her, but they never asked for her hand to guide her going inside or outside the car. And since this was a date, she permitted Kielton to hold her hand.

Ibinigay niya ang kamay sa binata at kaagad na nagsisi nang marahan nitong pisilin ’yon na nagbigay ng hindi pamilyar na pakiramdam sa kanya.

Pagkapasok niya pa lang sa loob ng sasakyan ay hindi niya na maitanggi ang amoy ng loob—kaamoy ng may-ari, masarap sa ilong. The black interior made it look really manly.

“Where are you going to bring me?” she asked when he started driving.

She needed to talk to him and open a conversation because she felt uneasy. Mas mararamdaman niya ang pinagsamang kaba at inis kapag tahimik sila pareho.

“Let’s have dinner first.” First? May iba pa itong balak?

“Saan ang sunod?”

Kielton took a quick glance at her. When his head went back straight to the road, she noticed how perfect was his pointed nose. Ang mga ilaw sa kalsada ay dumadagdag sa ganda ng mga mata nito sa gabi. It’s like the mysterious eyes of a hero in some romantic and erotic movies.

“That’s a surprise.”

“Hindi mo naman siguro ako ilalayo? O gagawan ng masama?” duda niya na tinawanan lang nito.

The bark of his hearty laughter echoed around them, na kahit tapos na ay patuloy pa rin sa pandinig niya. Dumikit na rin yata pati ang tawa nito, ang ganda ng mga mata, at amoy sa kanya!

“Ilalayo kita pero hindi gagawan ng masama. Puro masasarap lang ang kaya kong gawin sa babae.”

“Talaga lang, ha?”

At ano ang tawag nito sa ginawa nito kay Iris na pagkalimot pagkatapos ng isang gabing ligaya? Hindi ba masama ’yon? Kahit may rules pa, hindi ’yon tama.

“At pwede ba, huwag mo akong igaya sa mga babae mo.”

“You’re different from them. I can prove that to you.”

“No need. This is our first and last date,” she said with finality.

“Oh-oh.” Napasipol ito. “I want more.”

“For what?”

Bumaling siya rito at saktong baling din nito sa kanya dahil huminto ang sasakyan nang magpula ang ilaw.

“To get to know you?”

“You’re basted!” malupit na sabi niya at humalukipkip. Inunahan niya na ito.

She saw how his sensual lips parted a bit, disbelief written all over his face because of what he heard from her. Nakipagtagisan siya ng titig kay Kielton kahit na hindi na naman maawat ang eksaheradang pintig ng kanyang puso lalo at natanaw ang kontroladong pagagis ng panga nito.

His grayish eyes darkened and the lights from outside had nothing to do with its darkness.

Kielton moved forward to have complete access to her face. Maybe he’s making sure if she’s serious or what. Pinaseryoso niya ang mukha, mapagmalaki na nakahalukipkip, hindi na alintana ang lalong pagsilip ng kanyang dibdib.

“What did you say?”

“Sabi ko, basted ka na. Wala kang pag-asa sa ’kin.”

“Why are you so full of yourself?” He laughed without humor in it.

Nanliit ang mga mata niya. Sinundan niya ito ng tingin hanggang sa umayos ulit sa pagkaupo at umandar ang sasakyan.

“Hindi kita liligawan.”

“Hindi rin ako magpapaligaw sa ’yo,” sagot niya kaagad.

“Hindi ako nanliligaw.”

“Alam ko. Nakikipag-sex ka lang at iiwan mo pagkatapos.”

Gusto niyang takpan ang bibig sa pagiging padalos-dalos!

Muli siyang sinulyapan ni Kielton. Nawala na ang dilim sa mga mata ngunit napalitan ng pagkaaliw.

“Are you stalking me?”

“No, why would I do that?” she snorted.

“How did you know about my women then?”

“Are you really asking me that? Aren’t you aware that the women you bedded can’t get over you because you’re good at licking your women’s private parts!” tuloy-tuloy na sabi niya, kahit sarili ay hindi na naawat.

Narinig niya lang ang tawa ng binata at napapailing ito hanggang sa ihinto nito sa gilid ang sasakyan. Kielton unbuckled his seatbelt. Tuluyan na siya nitong hinarap na parang kasintahan niya na handa siyang suyuin dahil sa matinding pagseselos.

“Kanino mo ’yan narinig?” malumanay na tanong nito. Kung gaano ito kalumanay ay siya namang pagkainis niya.

Iniwas niya ang tingin dito, nangangamba na mapawi ang inis niya sa pagtingin sa namumungay na mga mata nito.

“One of your exes and from a friend.”

“I don’t have an ex.”

“Then one of your women.”

“That made you turned off?” he trailed off. “Knowing that you know, I’m good at that.”

“I don’t like you because you’re a womanizer,” deretsang sabi niya.

“Can’t a man change?”

Ibinalik niya ang tingin kay Kielton. His eyes were now gentle.

“People change. So, yes, you can still change if you want to.”

“What if I’d stop seeing women, would you… date me again?”

How to answer that question by the way? And why was he asking her that?

“I’ll think about that, but for now, my answer is no.”

Napanguso lang ito nang bahagya, parang nalugi. She found it cute, though.

“Balang araw, hahanap-hanapin mo rin ako, Kianna.”

Nangangarap na naman ang isang ’to.

“Hahanap-hanapin mo ’yung mga halik ko, haplos, at ako mismo…”

“Baka ako ang hanap-hanapin mo,” kompyansang sabi niya. “Hahanap-hanapin mo ’yung amoy ko, ’yung mukha ko, ’yung balat ko at ’yung boses ko… ang buong ako.”

“Sigurado,” pabulong na sambit nito. “Hindi mo ako pinatulog kagabi kakaisip sa ’yo…”

Sa sobrang hina ng paos na boses nito ay hindi niya na masyado narinig ang huli nitong sinabi.

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER FOUR

INSTEAD of having dinner in the Altaraza Hotel as she expected, Kielton brought her to Manila Bay where El Grande’s sailing boats and yacht were docked. She’s impressed.

Umakyat sila sa isang pribadong yate. Hawak ni Kielton ang kamay niya na pilit man niyang kunin ay hindi siya nito pinagbibigyan.

“I won’t run away,” she hissed.

Nilingon lang siya nito at deretso na naglakad pa at umakyat sila sa makipot na hagdanan. Her brow arched when her eyes were welcomed by a romantic dinner table in the upper deck of the yacht. The petals of red roses were romantically laying on the white floor, together with some small artificial candle lights in the sidewalks.

Alright, she admits, she was surprised for the effort he exerted for their first ever dinner date. Hindi ganito ang inaasahan niya. She expected Kielton to bring her to some fancy restaurants which is a normal place for a dinner date.

She didn’t expect him to bring her in a yacht with the darkness of the ocean as their view for tonight, and the breeze of the wind and the small waves of the water below became the only sounds around them.

Kielton pulled a chair for her.

“Thanks,” she muttered lowly.

The table was properly set with steak and red wine for two.

“This is much better than those fancy restaurants for me.”

Napatingin siya rito pagkatapos mailagay sa kandungan ang puting table napkin. Hindi nakatakas sa kanya ang titig nito sa kanya.

“I have to agree.”

Hindi pa man nakakatagal sa pagkakaupo ay umandar na nang mabagal ang yate kaya napatingin ulit siya kay Kielton na kaagad nitong nakuha ang tanong sa mga mata niya.

“Hindi naman tayo lalayo. I just want a peaceful dinner with you. I hope you don’t mind.”

Alam niyang may iba pa silang kasama ro’n, isang guwardiya na naka-uniporme ng puti at dalawang staff. Mayroon ding chef. Apat ang sumalubong sa kanila kanina nang makapasok sa yate.

She’s wondering if Kielton was also like this to his previous women? Bringing them in the yacht for dinner? Then, what happened after dinner? Was it the time for making out until they ended up in bed?

Nakaramdam siya ng kalituhan sa naisip. Paano kung mangyari ang gano’n sa kanila ni Kielton? Hindi pwede! Date lang dapat ito. No kiss! No hug! No make out! No sex! Just a dinner date!

“Not here for sex, by the way,” he suddenly said while she was battling silently with her dirty thoughts.

“I-I know.” She cleared her throat.

“I want you to be comfortable. I won’t bite you… yet.”

Now that he’s being playful again, she was starting to forget her dirty thoughts and focused on him and his naughtiness.

“I wonder if you also did this to your women? This romantic date?”

“Can we stop talking about women? Let’s focus on you. What do you do for a living?”

Mabilis nitong napalitan ang topic nila at para maayos naman kahit papano ang gabing ’yon ay napakwento na rin siya, nililibang ang sarili.

“I’m a model, a freelance model.”

“A model, hmm…” His eyes shamelessly went down to her chest. It looked like he was checking her whole body if she’s really telling the truth.

Hanggang sa tiyan niya lang ang nakikita nito pero pakiramdam niya ay pati mga binti niya ay inabot ng mapanuring mata ng lalaking kaharap. Bawat lapat ng tingin nito sa kanya ay naghahatid ng kakaibang init sa katawan niya, nakakapawis kahit na malamig na ang hampas ng hangin dahil medyo nakalayo na sila sa port.

“You made me uncomfortable with your stares. Stop it,” sita niya, naiirita na sa bahagyang pamamawis ng noo at leeg.

“I think I already saw some of your photos in social media.”

“Maybe? But I don’t handle my social media accounts. Ate Evie is the one who handles it.”

“Me too.”

“Pareho tayo kung gano’n. Hindi mo hilig?”

“No, there’s a lot of pretension online. It’s a world where most people escape from reality.”

It’s true. Maybe that’s why she was not really into the social media world. She had an experience when she encountered a group of girls inside the shop of a famous and expensive brand of bags and shoes. The girls did not literally buy even one of the items. They just took photos of them and left.

Marami pa siyang karanasan na gano’n kahit sa mamahaling restaurant at hotels. Kaya sumasang-ayon siya sa sinabi ni Kielton na ang social media ay minsan nagiging mundo ng pagpapanggap at pagtakas ng ibang tao sa reyalidad.

“Who handles your social media accounts?”

“We have someone for that job. She handles my social media accounts and ColdHeart’s.”

“Honestly, I’m not familiar with your band name.”

“It’s fine. You look like someone who doesn’t give a damn about what’s happening around you or what people talks about you.”

Gano’n ba talaga siya? Gano’n nga. Ang bilis naman nahuli ni Kielton ang ugali niyang ’yon na hindi masyado kaaya-aya. Medyo napangiwi siya. Inaamin niya mismo na hindi lahat maganda sa kanya.

“Maybe you think I’m a good girl—”

“No, I’ve never thought about that,” he laughed, amused now.

Sinimangutan niya ito.

“Hindi talaga ako mabait!”

“Hindi ka rin naman masama,” anito, medyo pumapanig na yata sa kanya. “I won’t tolerate your bratty attitude. Hindi sa ’kin uubra ’yan.”

Hindi uubra? Ano ang iniisip nito? Na magbabago siya para dito? O, susuwayin nito ang lahat ng gusto niya? Hindi siya pagbibigyan sa mga nais niya?

Well, this man should know now that nobody could dictate her. Hindi siya nito mahahawakan sa leeg. Hindi siya papahawak.

“If you can’t handle my attitude anymore, you are free to go.” Then she sipped on her wine with a smirk on her lips. She wanted to see how long Kielton’s patience would last. Alam niyang sa huli, susuko rin naman ito.

“I’ll see if I can handle it.”

Did he just revoke his previous statement? Akala niya ba ay hindi rito uubra ang ugali niya? Bakit… parang binabawi na ang sinabi?

“You don’t need to. Besides, this is our last meeting. So, you don’t need to deal with my attitude.”

“You’ll never know. The world is so small.”

They continued eating until the dessert was served. It was a slice of strawberry ice cream cake that was personally made by an Italian chef in the yacht!

How funny was it that of all the cake flavors, strawberry was the only one appealing to her? Was this a coincidence?

“I like this.”

She’s not really on diet, so she could still eat sweets, but not really so much carbs.

“I’m glad to know that.”

There’s a small smirk in Kielton’s lips.

It’s only one sliced cake that was good for two. They shared.

The small lights from the artificial candles on the floor and the candles above the table made everything dimmed yet so romantic.

Nilingon niya sa gilid nila ang tubig na naririnig niya ang mararahan na hampas. Nadilim do’n ngunit ni kaunti ay hindi siya nakaramdam man lang ng takot lalo sa ideya na sila lang ang naroon. She liked beaching, swimming, and the ocean, but she’s not very fond of the sea when it’s dark. It was kinda scary. That’s why she felt weird because she didn’t feel scared.

Nang matapos silang kumain ay nagpasya siyang tumayo. Kianna went to the railing and watched those small stars that gave light to the darkness of the clouds. The golden half-moon felt like it was staring back at her.

Napatayo lang siya nang tuwid nang maramdaman sa likod niya si Kielton. He placed his both hands beside her hands on the cold railing. His smooth moves gave her the feeling that he’s secretly locking her with his strong arms.

“How do you escape from reality?” he suddenly asked in a low tone.

Paano nga ba niya tinatakasan ang reyalidad ng buhay? O, minsan ba sa buhay niya ay tinakasan niya? Ayon sa pagkakatanda niya, hindi pa siya tumatakas sa reyalidad.

How could she escape the reality of life when reality gives her everything that she wants?

“I don’t need to escape from reality.”

“You’re lucky, then.”

“How ’bout you? Do you escape from reality?” she wondered.

“I do.”

“How? What do you do to escape?”

“I sail for days. That’s how I escape.”

“I don’t think you’d ever need to escape from reality. You have the face, money, women, and fame. Why do you have to escape?” medyo natatawang tanong niya.

Having everything that Kielton’s have right now made people stay in reality, right? He got it all. Why escape, then?

“I’m only human. I get tired… of everything around me.”

Nilingon niya ito pero binawi rin kaagad ang mukha dahil sa lapit ng labi nito sa kanyang pisngi. Kung ipinagpatuloy niya pa ay siguradong dumampi na ang labi nito sa pisngi niya.

“You seem like you’re not.”

“Sobrang gwapo ko lang talaga kaya hindi matalo ng pagod ang mukha ko.”

Hindi niya napigilan ang matawa sa sobrang kahanganin ng lalaking ’to. Nakitawa rin ito na animo naaliw sa tawa niya, pero huminto siya bigla nang maramdamang iba ’yung saya niya. It scared her. She shouldn’t feel that kind of happiness with that petty stuff that she heard.

Sinubukan niyang umalis sana sa barandilya pero hindi siya pinayagan ni Kielton.

“Let’s stay like this for a while, please?” She could almost hear the begging in his husky low voice.

“You’re invading my space again,” she complained.

“This would make you comfortable being with me.”

Pinagbigyan niya ang hiling nito kahit na hindi siya sang-ayon sa rason. Hindi niya kailangang maging komportable kay Kielton. Bakit pa? Kung pagkatapos ng gabing ito ay hindi na sila magkikita.

“You’re hugging me.”

“Not really.” She felt him smell her hair. “Hindi ako ganito yumakap. Masyado itong maluwag at malayo sa ’yo. I can’t even call this a hug.” Hindi? Samantalang nasa magkabilang gilid na ng baywang niya ang braso nito at nakadikit na nang bahagya ang dibdib nito sa likod niya. This was still not a hug for him.

“You’re joking, right?” he muttered as he continued smelling her hair down to her bare nape.

Napakaingat ng pagdaan ng ilong nito sa batok niya pero ramdam na ramdam niya pa rin at tahimik na tumataas ang mga balahibo niya sa katawan. Para itong nanghihibo.

She should’ve let her long hair down than tie it in a clean and high style. She just gave him the freedom to her nape and what annoyed her is she can’t stop him from doing it to her!

Her mind was screaming her to tell him to stop especially when she already felt him giving her nape gentle and small kisses, but her body was fucking betraying her! Ayaw makisama sa isip niya ang sariling katawan!

“J-joking about what?”

Kianna’s catching her breath because of those feathery kisses that Kielton was giving her. Wala sa sarili na humigpit ang pagkapit niya sa barandilya at bahagyang napaangat ang leeg nang dumapo roon ang malambot na labi ng binata.

She found it crazy for falling with his gentle kisses. Her body liked it. May kakaibang kiliti siyang nararamdaman, hindi niya lang sigurado kung nasaan ba banda ang kiliti na ’yon.

“For turning me down ’bout courting stuff.”

Kielton’s slow kisses on her nape and neck made her close her eyes. She could not even focus on their conversation. What was he saying again? She turned him down? When?

The memories of them inside his expensive car a few hours ago flashed her mind. Binasted niya nga pala ito kahit hindi pa sinasabing manliligaw. Kahit nagugustuhan ng katawan niya ang nakakahibong mga halik ni Kielton ay pareho pa rin ang desisyon niya!

“I wasn’t joking.” She gulped when he felt him licking her neck!

Mahina siyang napasinghap, hindi inaasahan ang pagsalakay ng init sa katawan niya sa pagdilang ginawa ni Kielton sa kanyang leeg. But it wasn’t really all about the way he licked her neck. She felt something else on his tongue. O baka nagkakamali lang siya?

“Basted na talaga ako?” he asked with arrogance on his tone. “Hindi pa nga ako nanliligaw.”

Ignoring his arrogance and complaints, Kianna permitted herself to get drowned with his gentle and sweet kisses from her bare nape, neck, and even to her shoulder.

“B-basted ka pa rin kahit manligaw ka.”

She wanted to praise herself for still thinking straight despite how distracted she was with those kisses and with his arms that were slowly rubbing the sides of her waist up to the sides of her breasts.

When Kielton sensually licked her neck again, her face burned when a small moan suddenly escaped her lips because of it. Mabilis na kinagat niya ang pang-ibabang labi, pinigilan ang maaaring daing pa na lumabas galing sa bibig.

Keilton chuckled behind her ear. Hindi nakatakas sa pandinig nito ang ungol niyang ’yon. This was so embarrassing!

“Baby, it was just a simple lick.” She could almost feel him smirking.

“I know, but what’s in your tongue? I feel something, that’s why I moaned,” instead, she asked curiously, when honestly, she moaned because his lick was too sensual for her.

Luckily, she found a reason why she moaned. She would never ever tell him that she moaned because of the way his tongue licked her neck. It’s so sensual for her that she couldn’t stand without moaning.

“It’s a piercing.”

“A… a piercing? You have your tongue pierced?”

She’s still in disbelief even if she already heard that he has a piercing in his tongue. So, it’s really true.

“Yeah.”

Kielton continued kissing her nape and neck. This time, he’s not holding back. Maybe he felt like she liked his kisses that he’s now confident to kiss her. And screw her because she’s letting him do that!

“Can I see?”

Naghintay siya ng sagot habang napapapikit, dinadama ang nakakahibong halik at ang marahan na pagkiskis ng mga braso nito sa gilid ng dibdib niya.

“No, not yet.”

“I just want to see what kind of piercing you put in your tongue.”

“It’s a small diamond.”

“A diamond, huh?”

Kielton’s palm erotically went to her stomach and heaven knows how much she gripped the railing to make herself still. Ang mainit na palad nito ay unti-unting naglakbay pataas sa kanyang dibdib.

Napapikit siya, nawalan ng lakas na pigilan ito.

“I just bought this. Hindi pa ’to nagagamit,” makahulugan na bulong ni Kielton sa ilalim ng tainga niya.

“Let me see,” she urged, really curious with that thing he has in his tongue.

Kielton started palming her boobs in a sensual way. It felt like she’s losing her mind. Kung hindi niya pipigilan ang binata, nakakatiyak siyang hahantong sila sa iniiwasan niya. This was not right. They should stop or else, she would lose her virginity on the first date. That’s horrifying and very unacceptable!

“You’ll see and experience this, soon. Magugustuhan mo ’to,” nakakahibong bulong nito sa kanya. “I can’t wait to hear you scream my name and beg for me to stop while my head is between your thighs, punishing you using my pierced tongue.”

Kielton’s dirty words put her body on fire, but her mind wouldn’t just give in with lust. She’s still sane.

“Your fantasy will stay as an illusion. Basted ka na sa ’kin baka nakakalimutan mo kaya hindi mo na ako magiging girlfriend!”

“Let’s see that,” he whispered and licked her neck one more time. “Makukuha rin kita at kapag nangyari ’yon, sisiguraduhin ko na hindi ka na makakawala pa.”

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER FIVE

THEY were in their studio to chill and play their new song. They were also waiting for Allison for a short meeting about their mall tour next week, but Kielton was not really in the mood. It ruined the whole band.

It has been three fucking days since he last saw Kianna! Damn it!

What made his mood worse was because he couldn’t contact her anymore. Maybe she changed her number, or she blocked his number.

“Let’s take a break,” Jasper announced and put down his drumsticks.

“Someone is not in the mood,” palipad hangin ni Jude na nilaro pa ang gitara, gumawa ng tunog na parang nagdidiwang, nang-aasar.

“Hinatyin na lang natin si Alisson. Mamaya na tayo magpatuloy.” Si Owen na tumayo na rin galing sa harap ng piano.

The three went to the balcony to smoke and inhale some air. Naiwan sila ng bahistang si Felixx.

“Tatlong araw ka nang wala sa hulog, ha?” puna nito sa kanya.

Si Felixx ang pinakamatanda sa kanila at kasal na rin ito, may isang anak pero hindi isinasa-publiko. Kagaya ng tatlo pang kasamahan nila na may mga kasintahan na, hindi lang ipinapaalam sa mga fan nila.

Isa ’yon sa alam nilang teknik kung paano papakapitin sa kanila ang mga fan, lalo na ang mga babae. They have to appear single and available, so that the female fans have the freedom to like, adore, or even fantasize them.

That kind of trick was what famous actors and actresses did to keep their name in industry, to appear single and fucking available for everyone to fantasize, but in reality, most of them were already in a relationship.

It took a lot of understanding and patience for a partner to deal with that arrangement of their boyfriend or girlfriend. He couldn’t do that, by the way. Everyone knew how he liked women and how many of them had sex with him. He never hid them, but he’s also not very proud to have a countless number of women he had bedded.

“I just don’t feel good these past few days.”

“Is this because of our mall tour in Cebu?”

Maybe that’s also a reason. His family was in Cebu, but honestly, he didn’t want to be there again even if he’s already making his name in the music industry and he’s earning well. Even though he already earns well, he’s so sure that he would never ever make his father proud of him. He would never ever impress him with his career.

“That too.”

“So, there’s more reason behind your bad mood?” Felixx laughed and patted his shoulder. “Kung ano man ang rason mo, malala na ’yan.”

Kielton only glared at their kuya in their band.

“Sigurado naman ako na hindi babae ang nasa likod ng hindi maipinta mong mukha. Kung babae ’yan, gusto kong magpainom.”

“Go away. You are just annoying me,” taboy niya na tinawanan ulit nito.

Nang makapunta si Felixx sa balkonahe ay nagtinginan ang apat sa kanya sabay tatawa-tawa. Mga tarantado, ang lalakas din mang-asar ng mga ’to.

After an hour, Alisson arrived wearing her denim skirt and peach tank top. Umupo ito malayo sa kanya, pagdating pa lang ay hindi na nakangiti.

“Before I start, I want to inform all of you ’bout what’s happening in the social media world,” Allisson said with a serious tone.

The good thing about ColdHeart members was they were not into that social media. They could live without it, though they use some applications to watch videos.

“Ano ba ’yon, Alisson? Sikat na ba kami?” Si Felixx.

“Kuya Felixx, sikat na talaga kayo. Pero, alam natin na mabenta sa social media ’tong si Kielton.”

“Babae na naman ’yan, sigurado!” mabilis na sabi ni Jude, nagngiting aso sa kanya na sinupladuhan niya lang.

“Pustahan, babae ’yan!” segunda ni Jasper.

“Babae ’yan.” Siguradong-sigurado si Owen sa sinabi.

“You’re right, it’s about a woman… again.” Alisson sounded a little bit disappointed.

She never showed disappointment about him having different countless women before, just now.

Kielton shifted his sitting position when he remembered dating Kianna three days ago. He never dated women. From the club, they went straight to the hotel. Kianna was such a lucky woman because he dated her! And she seemed like she didn’t appreciate it.

“This showbiz news is trending because of course Kielton’s name is in it and with Campbell’s youngest daughter.”

Napatingin sa kanya ang lahat ng ka-banda. Napapailing at sinasabing wala siyang patawad na kahit anak ng naging kliyente nila ay napormahan niya kaagad.

“Ang tinik talaga ng Kielton natin.” Pabirong itinulak ni Owen ang binti niya, parang gusto pa siyang palakpakan.

“Mayaman ’yan. Butas bulsa mo d’yan, p’re.”

“She was born with a golden spoon in her mouth. She’s the youngest and the only spoiled child of Campbell. May pagkamaarte which is normal because of her status in life, but some of their employees don’t really like her bad attitude.” Alisson memorized those words. It’s obvious that she did her research with that spoiled brat. “And oh, she’s a model.”

“Kahit gaano pa kayaman, kapag itong si Kielton na ang gumalaw, hindi na makatanggi sa kanya ang mga babae.” Si Felixx na tinapik ulit siya sa balikat, nakatayo sa bandang likod niya, habang siya ay mayabang na nakaupo sa sofa. “Alam ko na ang dahilan kung bakit mainit ang ulo ng isang ’to—”

“Oh, shut up. That woman is not the reason for my bad mood,” maagap na tanggi niya kaagad.

“Wala pa naman akong sinasabi, ah? Defensive ka naman masyado d’yan.” Tinawanan siya ni Felixx.

“Let’s start with the meeting,” he demanded.

Heads up, Alisson ended that conversation and started the meeting about their mall tour.

“After in Cebu, we have another one in Bohol, then Davao. That would be a tight week for all of us. Sisikapin ko na makakuha tayo ng ilan pang araw para makapagpahinga kayo. We can stay longer in Bohol or Davao. Saan ang gusto niyo?”

“Cebu,” ani Jasper sabay ngisi sa kanya, nananadya si gago.

Bohol was chosen by the majority though.

After that meeting, they got back to playing their songs and he tried his best to cooperate because he didn’t want to be a burden to his bandmates just because of one woman who stopped communicating with him.

After she let him touch, caress, and kiss her, in the end, she dumped him like a dirty trash just like that? What’s her fucking problem with him, huh? Women got crazy with his touch and kisses, but why the hell did Kianna ignore him like they didn’t make out! Like as if his kisses were nothing to her! He’s nothing to her!

DALAWANG araw na nasa bahay lang si Kianna. Hindi mawala sa isip niya ang ginawa sa kanya ni Kielton na paghalik at paghaplos-haplos. Hanggang sa mga sandaling ’yon ay parang naiwan ang bakas ng kamay at labi ni Kielton sa katawan niya, nararamdaman niya pa rin.

Mabuti at umiral ang katinuan sa kanya kaya hindi na sila umabot sa mas malala at mainit pang mga eksena.

When she got home from that night, she felt like she’s a cheap girl for letting her date touch and kiss her at their first ever fucking date night!

She went to the shower quickly, hoping to erase any of his trace that he left her body, even his smell, pero natapos na siya lahat-lahat ay gano’n pa rin. Ramdam niya pa rin ang nakakahibong haplos sa kanya ni Kielton.

Annoyed by what he did to her and to her body, she blocked his number without hesitation, cutting their communication.

Now, she’s waiting for Zabel in a coffee shop to discuss to her their new project next week. Nabigyan sila ng bagong proyekto ng photographer na si Debora. People call him Tita Debora.

It’s Evie’s day off so she’s alone, well, not really alone because Renato was at the next table, guarding her.

Zabel arrived in five minutes. Humihikahos pa ito, siguro ay naglakad lang galing sa condo unit nito hindi kalayuan kung nasaan siya. Bumeso sa kanya si Zabel pero napaiwas siya dahil medyo may pawis ito sa noo. Maganda pa rin naman, may pawis lang talaga.

“Arte,” Zab murmured and rolled her eyes. “Naglakad lang ako. Exercise you know.”

“Whatever you say. So, let’s start. What’s our new project?”

“I already sent it to your email. Just read it.”

“Oh, okay, gonna check it later. Bakit pa tayo nandito kung naipasa mo na pala sa ’kin ang mga detalye?”

“Gusto ko lang marinig galing mismo sa ’yo ang bali-balita.” Zabel placed her hands above the table. She’s being aggressive. “So, is it true? You dated Kielton Grande? What’s the score?”

“Saan mo naman nakuha ang balitang ’yan?”

“Hello, girl, your photos with him entering their private yacht are all over social media! Aren’t you aware that you’re famous now? People are feasting with your photos online.”

“I didn’t know that. I don’t really care about those people.”

She crossed her arms above her chest. She didn’t really give a damn though.

“Seryoso ka, girl? May mga basher ka na nga, e!”

“I have my bashers even before, remember? Some are our employees.”

Zab didn’t stop even when she said she’s not interested in being famous or having a new batch of bashers, or even being linked with that Kielton Grande!

“Ayaw mo talagang marinig ang mga sinasabi ng tao sa ’yo? Lalo na nung mga babaeng fan ni Kielton? At ’yung mga dati niyang babae?”

“Does it really matter? Kapag ba nalaman ko ang mga sinasabi nila, makakatulong ’yon sa pag-angat ng karera ko sa pagmomodelo? Hindi naman. Kaya, ’wag na lang!”

But her friend didn’t listen. Zab started to check with her cellphone and read some hate comments against her.

“That spoiled brat thinks that she can get whatever she wants, without knowing that Kielton will only dump her after a one night with her. Pity rich girl,” Zabel read it with an annoying tone.

Dump her? Well, that hater was wrong because as far as she remembers, she was the one who dumped Kielton at binasted niya ito!

“Ito pa, o. Anak mayaman, hindi tatagal d’yan si Kielton lalo at bali-balitang masama raw ang ugali niyan.”

Talaga!

“Maybe Kianna is just using Kielton to have her name spread in social media and other modeling agencies. Lubog ang karir kaya sa sikat kumakapit.”

“Oh, stop that, Zab.”

“I like this one.” Hindi talaga titigil ang isang ’to. “They are both good looking and came from a wealthy family. They could make very cute and pretty babies in the future.”

Babies? Really? People even think ’bout that? Nalaman lang na nag-date sila ni Kielton, gano’n na kaagad mag-isip ang mga ito? Sobrang advance.

“So, care to share that dating thing?”

“It’s just a casual dinner, okay?”

“Casual? But he brought you to their private yacht. That’s not casual. Kielton doesn’t date his women, kaya pinagpiyestahan kayong dalawa sa internet dahil unang beses na nakipag-date siya.”

“I didn’t know that it was his first date though. It seems like it wasn’t.”

“It was!”

“It’s not a big deal to me or to us. People just make it big para may mapag-usapan lang.”

“Nag-date nga kayo. Kumusta naman? Nag-uusap pa rin ba kayo?”

“Hindi na,” matapat na sagot niya na ikinalaki ng mata ng kaibigan. Nagtaka siya. “Bakit ganyan ang itsura mo? Ano ang nakakabigla?”

“Ibig sabihin, pagkatapos ng isang gabi niyo, hindi ka na rin niya kinausap katulad ng normal na ginagawa niya sa mga babae niya. Sex then forget.”

Hindi niya na sinagot si Zabel at hinayaan na lang ito sa gustong isipin sa kanya. Alam niya naman ang totoo at iyon lang ang papaniwalaan niya.

Matatapos din ang issue na ’yan sa kanila ni Kielton, lilipas din at makakalimutan ng mga tao.

IT WAS A SATURDAY night when Zabel invited her to D’ Club with her VIP pass. They could also access one of the VIP rooms.

Sporting a classy black halter neck mini dress and high heeled stilettos she walked with Zabel upstairs to the second floor.

Everyone was partying on the dance floor. They were not yet in the mood to dance, so they decided to go to their VIP room. The red and yellow lights inside and the black and red couches at the center of the room made her excited to drink and to start the party.

Zabel went to the mini bar to get drinks while she went to the large, tinted glass wall and saw what’s happening inside the club.

She was wrong when she thought that D’ Club was some kind of a cheap club around Metro Manila because she saw some of the famous actors and models inside, and also some young politicians. Maybe some of them were businessmen, too.

“I think they are here,” ani Zabel nang maglapag ng alak sa pabilog na salamin na lamesa bago lumapit sa kanya at nakinood din sa mga ganap.

“Sino?”

“The owner of this club and his friends.”

“Kilala mo sila?”

“Yes. Palagi akong nandito kaya nakilala ko na sila. Ikaw kasi e, sa iba ka pa puma-party. Maganda dito.”

“Mukha nga.”

Bumalik sila pareho sa couch at si Zabel ay sanay na sanay magbukas ng alak. Tinawanan niya pa ang pwersang ibinigay nito.

“I saw their cars parked. Nakita ko nga rin ’yung Lexus ni Kielton. Atomic silver ang kulay ng sa kanya, ’di ba?”

Nang banggitin nito ang binata ay kinabahan siya kaagad. Pangalan pa lang ang narinig niya ay kumalabog na ang dibdib niya. Paano pa kaya ang ideya na baka nandito nga ang lalaking ’yon?

Sa dami ng tao, sana naman ay huwag na silang pagtagpuin!

“Yes, atomic silver as I remember.”

“Pero madalang naman ’yon makipaghalubilo sa mga tao rito. Madalas na nagkukulong ang ang mga ’yon sa VIP room nilang magkakaibigan dito sa club.”

Bilib din siya sa dami ng alam ni Zabel. Wala siyang alam kasi hindi siya madalas sa club na ito at hindi siya mahilig makialam sa buhay ng iba. She’s minding her own business.

After a few drinks, Kianna already felt a little bit tipsy, same with Zabel. So, they both decided to go out and go to the dance floor to cool down. Pero ang malikot na ilaw at ang maraming tao sa dance floor ay nagpapahilo lang sa kanya.

While swaying her hips, she moved up her both hands and giggled with Zabel when she danced in front of her. Humahagikhik sila pareho sa sayaw nilang dalawa hanggang sa may tatlong lalaki na ang nakihalubilo.

Sanay siya sa mga gano’n. Hindi na bago sa kanya kaya hinayaan nilang makisayaw ang mga ito hangga’t hindi gumagawa ng kabastusan.

“Oh, I think we danced with the wrong girl. You’re Kielton’s girl, right?” the man asked her while dancing.

“No.” She raised her voice a bit so he could hear her answer.

“No, really?” Hinarap niya nang tuluyan ang lalaki na nasa gilid niya.

When she saw his face, her eyes wide a bit when she realized how handsome this man in front of him. Tumaas ang kilay nito, naghihintay sa papuri niya. Naramdaman niya kaagad ang taas ng ere nito kaya inirapan niya.

“I’m Carter, by the way.” The man tried to get her attention again.

“Kianna,” she answered without looking at him.

“Okay, Kianna. Nice to meet you.” Then he left as if someone was calling him.

Sinundan niya ng tingin si Carter na patakbong umakyat sa hagdan at pumasok sa isa sa mga VIP room.

Kianna was really tipsy. Si Zabel ay patuloy sa pagsayaw sa mga lalaki na akala mo ay wala itong boyfriend na magagalit.

“Powder room,” aniya nang lumapit siya sa kaibigan at nagpaalam.

Kinailangan niya pang bumalik sa VIP room nila para kunin ang sling bag. Tired and tipsy, she carefully walked upstairs with her high heeled stilettos. Come on!

Wala pa sa kalahati ng hagdan ang naakyat niya ay may naglahad na ng kamay ng lalaki na galing sa unuhan niya. Dahan-dahang nag-angat siya ng tingin kung sino ba ’yon at parang nabuwal ang mga tuhod niya nang makita ang madilim na mga mata ni Kielton.

She was very surprised to see him after how many days that it made her out of balance. Kung hindi siya nito mabilis na naagapan sa baywang ay siguradong sa baba na siya pupulutin.

Kabado dahil sa delikadong galaw, napakapit siya sa dibdib ng binata. His arms were possessively warped around her waist, while the other one was in the railing, supporting their weights.

Ilang sandali bago siya parang nahimasmasan. Nang tingnan niya ang mukha nito ay hindi nagbago ang dilim do’n na para bang may kasalanan siya rito at gustong gumanti sa kanya!

“K-kaya ko na.” Tinangay ng ingay ng paligid ang kanyang boses.

“Alam mo ba na mahuhulog ka kung hindi kita nasalo?”

“Thank you kasi sinalo mo ako, okay?”

Inis na ito pero nainis din siya. Sabay silang naiinis!

She glared at him when his eyes dropped down to her boobs. The deep v-cut of her mini dress really revealed half of her breast, honestly. She was confident wearing it, not until she bumped into Kielton.

“You don’t even wear a fucking bra, huh,” gigil na sabi nito sabay buhat sa kanya paakyat!

“It’s built in! I don’t need a bra on this dress!” she shouted at him while slapping his hard back body because he carried her like a sack of rice!

Hindi niya alam kung hahampasin niya ba ang likod nito o hihilahin ang dulo ng maliit niyang dress para takpan ang pang-upo niya. But Kielton was the one who pulled the hem of her dress, hoping to cover her butt.

“Where’s your VIP room?” he asked, ignoring her slaps on his back.

“Room number 8!”

After a few fast steps, Kielton opened a door. He double locked it and put her down to the red couch. She’s busy glaring at him without realizing that they were not in room number 8.

Hinayaan niya ang dulo ng dress na makita ang hita niya. Galit na inayos niya ang buhok at bumangon, umupo.

Kielton was standing in front of her as if he’s waiting for her explanation. He’s wearing a black sleeveless shirt that showed the hot tattoo on his forearm. The muscles on it moved when he put his one hand on his hip, and the other one was under his chin.

Galit din itong nakatingin sa kanya na parang may kasalanan talaga siya rito kahit wala naman!

“Ano na naman ba ’to? Pinagbigyan na kita sa date na gusto mo. What else do you want?”

As if she would give whatever he wanted, huh. No!

“Mag-usap tayo.” Sa mababang boses nito ’yon sinabi.

“Ano ang pag-uusapan natin? Wala naman!”

“I just want to talk. Come on.” He took a few steps to the empty couch beside her. “Stop being grumpy every time you see me.”

“Naiinis ako sa ’yo!”

Napailing ito sa sagot niya, hindi bumenta.

“Wala pang nangyayari sa ’tin pero para ka nang naglilihi kapag nakikita ako.”

Uminit ang pisngi niya at tinapunan ito ng matalim na tingin.

“I don’t want to talk to you anymore!”

“Let’s talk, please. I just want to have my peace of mind.” He’s begging again, and his grayish eyes mesmerized her.

CHAPTER 6 (SPG)

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 7 (SPG)

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 8 (SPG)

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 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.

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 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 (SPG)

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 (SPG)

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 (SPG)

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 (SPG)

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 (SPG)

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 (SPG)

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 (SPG)

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.

EPILOGUE

This story is part of the Paid Stories program, a selection of exclusive stories that help support Wattpad writers. Click here to continue reading on the Wattpad app.

Esta historia pertenece al programa de Historias Pagadas, una selección exclusiva de historias con las que apoyas a escritores de Wattpad. Da click aquí para seguir leyendo en la aplicación.