The Pursuit of a Cop

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, and incidents are either the products of author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

Do not distribute, publish, transmit, modify, display, or create derivative works from or exploit the contents of this story in any way. Please obtain permission.

PLAGIARISM IS A CRIME.

This is the second installment of Miss Trans Series.

Enjoy reading! ;)

Date Started: September 11, 2021 Date Finished: [On-going]

Prologue

“Akin ka lang, Maxine. Akin lang!” Davion said. His eyes glazed and he’s slowly walked towards my spot. I slowly backed forward and when my back touches the wall, my body trembled.

“Matagal na tayong tapos! Simula ’nong nagawa mo ’kong lokohin, tinapos mo na din kung anong meron tayo.” I said. Mas lalong nanlisik ang mata niya at lumabas ang mga ugat niya sa ulo’t leeg.

“No!! Akin ka lang, akin! Kung hindi ka mapupunta sa’kin, mas mabuting mamatay ka na lang.” I know that he’s not joking because he put his gun inside of his pocket. Mas lalong nanginig ang katawan ko ng itutok niya iyon sa’kin. Fuck!

I closed my eyes but a minute later ay walang pagputok na nangyari. I looked Davion and he still pointing me the gun. I slowly stood up while not taking my eyes off him. He gives me a stern look before began to speak.

“I’m giving you a one last chance. Babalik ka sa’kin o magpapaalam ka na ng tuluyan sa mundo?” he said seriously. I sighed.

“Please… Davion. Tigilan mo na ’ko.” I begged.

“Putangina!” malakas siyang sumigaw at pinutok ’yung baril sa ere. Nanginginig akong napapikit dahil sa takot. But I suddenly looked at him when I feel that he’s pointing his gun to me again. “Ikaw na ang namili ng tadhana mo!”

“I’m begging you, Davion. Please!” I begged. But he did not listened. And kasabay ng pagputok ng baril niya ay ang pagdilim ng paligid ko. I died.

“And… cut! Good take.”

The staff helped me to stand up. I walked towards to Primo that played to Davion’s character. I hugged him and smiled.

“Galing, huh!” I teased him. He smiled and shrugged it. I rolled my eyes because of his arrogance.

“Kidding. But ikaw din naman ginalingan mo, huh. Damang-dama mo ’yung line na ’matagal na tayong tapos, simula ’nong niloko mo ‘ko’.” he said then malakas na tumawa. Hinampas ko naman siya sa braso dahil sa inis. The audacity of this man. Tsk!

Lumapit si Direk sa’min at saka kami binati. We also thank him for being patience to me and to Primo, we also thank the staff na nakasama namin dito. We are here in New York to shoot the movie and finally we can go back in the Philippines because this is our last shoot.

“It’s a wrap, Miss Reese. Finally! We can back in the Philippines after three months here in New York.” Joanne said smiling. She’s my personal assitant for so long and siya lang din ang kasama ko dito sa New York. My manager stayed in the Philippines because she’s busy on other stuff.

“Where’s the ticket?” I asked her.

“Here, Miss Reese.” she said and gave me the ticket I’m asking. I’m planning now to go back in the Philippines. Since matagal ang flight ay naisip ko na ngayon na umalis.

“Pack all the things. We are going back in the Philippines now.” I said without looking at her. After I said that, I went to my suits to rest. Kahit saglit lang.

Nagising ako dahil sa taong mahinang tumatapik sa pisngi ko. Nang malinaw na ang paningin ko ay nakita ko ang mukha ng personal assistant ko na si Joanne. I sat on the top of bed and faced her.

“Is everything ready?” I asked her and she nodded. After she nodded, I stood up and wore my jacket. “Let’s go.”

Before going to JFK Airport. Nagpaalam muna ’ko kay Direk Cathy, I also said my goodbye to the staff na nakasama ko sa shoot. And lastly I walked papuntang kwarto ni Primo, I know he will get mad kapag hindi ako nagpaalam sa kanya.

“Bakit hindi ka pa sumabay sa’kin?!” he said and brows furrowed. I smiled and held his hand. I told you, he will be mad.

“I want to rest kasi. You know that Louis is planning to open her first bar, she’ll be mad kapag hindi ako nakapunta and nagdahilan na pagod. So, I want to rest ng matagal before mag-party or mag-accept ng work.” I said smiling. He don’t have a choice so he just nodded. I smiled.

“Okay, but pupunta ko ng opening ng bar ni Louis. I’ll see you there.” he said so I nodded. We kissed our each other cheeks before we bid our goodbyes.

“See you.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Local time is 12:48 pm and the temperature is 31 degree celcius.” the Captain announced. “On behalf of John F. Kennedy International Airport and the entire crew, I would like to thank you for joining us on this trip and we are looking forward to seeing you on board again in the near future. Have a nice day!”

I tapped the shoulder of Joanne and when she opened her eyes, I stopped tapping her shoulder. She looked at me first before she stood up. Binuhat niya lahat ng gamit namin and sabay na kami lumabas ng eroplano. I only carrying my Christian Dior tote bag.

Pagkalabas na pagkalabas namin ay naramdaman ko ang init ng araw. I wore my Dior sunglasses for my safety. But I know that there’s no Paparazzi because it’s hot in the afternoon.

“Did you texted Mang Andoy already?” I asked Joanne and she nodded. We were now walking out of the Airport.

“Omygosh! Si Miss Reese ba ’yon?!” someone said kaya napaharap kami pareho ni Joanne. And to surprised, it’s Paparazzi. “Si Miss Reese nga!” we walked fast as we can para hindi nila kami abutan pero mabilis talaga ang mga epal. Why now?! I’m not with my body guard pa naman.

Nakalapit silang lahat dahil dalawa lang naman kami ni Joanne na magkasama. Hindi na din kami makalakad ng mabilis dahil hinaharangan nila kami. They also started to asked a question but I’m planning to not answer any of that.

“Miss Reese! Miss Reese! Is it true na ikaw daw po ’yung napiling gaganap sa remake ng Anak ni Miss Claudine Barretto?”

“Miss Reese! Totoo po bang nakikipag-date kayo ngayon sa sikat na PBA player na dating isko at player ng UAAP?!”

“Miss Reese, totoo po bang inalok kayo ng isang management na magpakita ng dede sa movie for 10 million?!”

“Miss Reese! Is it true na kaya lang kayo nakukuhang bida sa movie dahil nilalande niyo ’yung direktor?!”

“Miss Reese, kayo po ba talaga ’yung nasa scandal na kumakalat?!”

Thank God because Mang Andoy came and tinaboy ’yung mga Paparazzi. When I eventually sat on my Artista Van, I sighed. This is not my first time hearing those kind of question. And ang kaya ko lang sagutin sa tanong nila ay ’yung una.

Yes, Star Cinema choose me to played the remake of Anak, whose played by the Optimum Star Miss Claudine Barretto. Of course, who I am to say no. Napakagandang movie ’non at ginampanan ng magagaling na artista. And I’m so overwhelmed na ako ang napili nila na mag-remake. But of course may konting changes like Trans pa rin ang roll ko. And I’m really excited to film that.

“Water, Miss Reese.”

“Thank you.”

I went straight home to my new house in Bulacan. This house is my hardworked. Katas ’to ng puyat at pagod ko sa shoot. I smiled.

Joanne slept here and so with Mang Andoy. Because of the tiredness, nakatulog kami agad. Tomorrow morning ay nag-bake lang ako then I talked with Louis and Claire through video call.

While browsing on my Instagram account. Mamu called me, she’s my manager. Well, I already have an idea why she’s calling.

“Hello, Mamu.” I answered.

[Reese! Bakit naman umuwi ka ng walang pasabi, ngayon head line ka na naman ng tabloid. Hindi ko pa nga nalilinis ’yong issue mo about sa scandal, ngayon maingay na naman ang pangalan mo. Tsk!] she said. Even though I don’t see her face, I know na lukot-lukot ’yon. I smirked.

“I’m sorry, okay. Hindi ko alam na nandon ang mga press dahil kina Drake and Xia. Don’t worry, I shut my mouth off. ’Tsaka, I already told you na hindi nga ako ’yung nasa scandal.” I said then I heard she’s sighed.

[Fine! Fine! I’ll see you tomorrow. Umpisa na daw kasi ’yong shoot niyo the next day.]

“Uhm, M-mamu. Can we resched the shoot next week. I want to rest muna kasi.” I bit my lower lip hoping that she would agree. She sighed again.

[Ano pa nga ba ang magagawa ko.] napangiti na lang ako sa sagot niya. After we talked, I went to sleep because I felt na pagod pa rin ang katawan ko.

I glanced to my reflection on my vanity mirror. From my bob cut hairstyle, to my small and feminine face. I stood up to see my outfit. I’m wearing now a white lace bralette top partnered by white trousers. I leaned to see my tattoo. I have a lot of tattoo, I have a rose petal tattoo on my upper left arm, quote tattoo on my forearm, and my name in my left lower arm. I also have butterfly tattoo on my nape, rose with stem tattoo on my ribs, quote tattoo in my both lower leg, butterfly tattoo on my right shoulder, and lastly surname of him in my lower right arm.

I put my red lipstick and smiled. After that, I looked at my face and not to suprise, I looked gorgeous. I stared at my ear and I’m right na kulang sila because I’m not wearing my tragus earing. Even before, I really love piercing. In my left ear, I have triple lobe, helix, and conch piercing. In my right ear, I have double lobe, tragus, and mid-helix piercing.

Kinuha ko ’yung black Chanel bag ko then I put all the things na kailangan ko for tonight. My eyes went to my latest iPhone when it rang. It was Louis, I pressed the green button and talked.

“Hello?” I answered.

[Bitch, where are you?! Primo, Claire, Edward, and Yohan are here. Ikaw na lang ang kulang!] she said. Inalayo ko ’yung phone because of her voice. Naririndi ko.

“I’m on my way.”

“Okay. See you.”

I walked towards to my BMW and drove to her new open bar. While driving, tumugtog ’yung kanta na You’ll Be Safe Here ng Rivermaya. Because of the lyrics, I remember him singing this to me. I sighed before turning off the radio.

Dahil lumilipad ang isip ko ay hindi ko napansin ang tricycle na dumaan sa harap ko at nabangga ko siya. Shit! Buti na lang nakapreno ko kahit papaano. The driver went to my window and kumatok. I composed myself before ibinaba ’yung bintana. Lagot na naman ako nito kay Mamu.

“Malabo ba mata mo, Miss?!” he said. He glared his eyes on me kaya medyo natakot ako. I smiled before I opened my door.

“I’m sorry, sir. Hindi ko po kasi kayo napansin. Babayaran ko na lang po ’yung nasira ko.” I said smiling. I bit my lower lip praying that he would agree. Fuck! I’m on a rush.

“Aba dapat lang! Limang libo para sa nasira mo.” he said and smirked. My brows furrowed because I think that’s too much. But in the end, kinuha ko ’yung wallet ko para kumuha ng limang libo.

Napasapo ko sa noo ko dahil wala pala ’kong dalang cash. I faced him and he still giving me stern look. I forced smile on my face.

“Ganito na lang po. Wala po kasi akong cash na dala ngayon kaya wala po akong mabibigay sa inyo. Papuntahin ko na lang po ’yung personal assistant ko para ibigay ’yung pera.” I said smiling.

“Ay naku, Miss! Alam ko na ’yung ganyan, tatakbuhan mo lang ako. Kung hindi mo ’ko babayaran ngayon. Kakasuhan na lang kita sa pag-bangga mo tricycle ko.” he said. Napa-face palm na lang ako because of the frustration.

“Hindi naman po kita tatakbuhan. Hindi niyo po ba ’ko kilala?” I asked him. He seems that he doesn’t know me kasi.

“Hindi! Eh, sino ka ba?!” he said frowning.

Gosh! I thought I’m a famous actress here in the Philippines. I do a lot of show, teleserye, movies, and commercial. I also won best actress in Gawad Urian and FAMAS this year. Then this man infront of me doesn’t know me.

“May problema po ba?” sabay kami ni Kuyang nasa harap ko napatingin sa likod ko. And my eyes wide when I saw his face. I lowered my gazed para hindi niya ’ko makilala.

“Eto kasing babae na ’to ay balak akong takbuhan. Nabunggo niya ’yung tricycle ko at ayaw magbayad!” the man infront of me said. I feel that he’s looking at me now.

I faced him and he looked suprised to see me. Nang makabawi sa gulat ay ngumiti siya, so I smiled also.

“I’m Police Captain Troy Gutierrez. Sumama kayo sa’kin sa presinto para maayos ’to. Okay ba sa inyong dalawa?” he said and we both nodded.

When I’m about to seat on my car. The man who’s owning the motorcycle spoke. So I faced him.

“Sir, pakibantayan po ’yan baka tumakas.” my brows furrowed because of what he said. How dare him to say that to me.

“Hindi po kayo tatakbuhin ng isang Miss Reese.” Troy said smiling. I smiled at him for saying thank you.

“Kilala mo siya, sir?!”

“Sino bang hindi nakakakilala sa kanya. Isa po siyang sikat na artista at model ng bansa kaya ’wag po kayong mag-alala na taktakbuhan ka niya.” Troy said again. The man looked shocks and give me shy smiled but I still give him my genuine smiled.

I drove where the precinct was. Pagkababa ko ay agad ngumiti sa’kin si Troy and I just nodded to him. He guided us papunta kung saan kami mag-uusap ’nong nabangga ko. And kanina ko pa din nararamdaman ’yong pag-ring ng phone ko. Gosh!

While approaching towards the two seats, I’m hoping he’s not the incharge at the moment. My knees trembled while I’m in front of the table. I can’t look on the name plate. Gosh!

“Take a seat. Tatawagin ko lang si Sir.” Troy said. I sat on the single monoblock na katapat ’nong nabangga ko. He’s smiling at me na parang walang nangyari kanina. I sighed.

Dahil hindi ko napigilan na hindi basahin ’yung pangalan sa name plate… I slowly read it and my heartbeat fast after what I did. Shit!

ZEYN MARIUS MERCADO

Police Lieutenant Colonel

“Ano pong problema?” I heard his baritone voice. Tumayo ang mga balahibo ko sa katawan because eight years kong hindi narinig ang boses niya.

I faced him and like Troy expressions, he looked surprised. He stared at me for about five second and para akong natunaw sa paraan niyon. Thank God because the man infront of me spoke.

I tried to listened to their discussions but I can’t focused. I know that his looking at me everytime na tinuturo ako ng katapat ko. Hanggang sa natapos ang discussion ay tango lang ang naambag ko. Focus, Reese!

“Okay, ganon na lang po. Ayos po ba iyon sa inyo, Miss Reese?” he asked. Since I’m not in the focused. I nodded.

Nag shake hands sila and I just nodded to them. Naunang lumabas ’yung lalaki but he say thank you to me. I bid my goodbye to Zeyn and Troy then walked out.

I walked as fast as can but I stopped walking when I heard that he’s calling my name. Fuck!

“RJ!! Can we talk?” he asked. I kept my back to him. Our memories flashes through my mind and so with scandal he made. I’m still remembered the video someone sent me. Him and his girl. Nasa ilalim siya habang mabilis na bumabayo, bumabayo at nasasarapan. And fuck him for that! Fuck them!

“No! I’m on a rush… and please, stop calling me that name.” I said still not looking at him. I walked out when he say nothing.

I’m not going to fall to his trapped again, I’m not going to fall to his arm again, and I’m not going to fall to his deceit again… because I am Reese Jan Fontanilla. And I am the Trans Star.

Chapter 01

“Omygosh!! Reese!” Louis and Claire both screamed my name because someone threw a milk shake at my head. I closed my eyes in frustration. Fuck her!

“What the hell is your problem?” I asked as I faced her. She’s giving me her resting bitch face and smirked.

“Bagay lang ’yan sa katulad mong makati.” she said so my eyes wider and my brows furrowed.

“What are you talking about?!” I asked still confused. I really don’t know what her talking about and I even don’t know her. Bigla na lang siyang sumulpot then ng buhos ng milk shake.

“Hindi mo alam kung ano ’yung sinasabi ko?!” she said angrily. Napatingin ako kina Louis and Claire na nasa tabi ko na ngayon. Inilabas niya ’yung cellphone niya then pinakita niya sa’min ’yung lockscreen. My eyes got bigger because of what I saw.

“I’m —”

Hindi ko na natapos ’yung sasabihin ko because she already slapped my face. Claire give her a warned look. I held Claire’s arm for her to calm down. I think I deserved this.

“What happened?!” Primo asked and cupped my face. Yohan and Edward standing beside Primo with their wondering face. I smiled at them.

“Pagsabihan niyo ’yang kaibigan niyo na layuan ’yung boyfriend ko!” the girl said and my boy friends are still wondering what the latter talking about. I lowered my gazed because of the embarrassment.

“Anong pinagsasabi mo?!” Primo asked. He looked mad. And I know na mas lalo siyang magagalit kapag nalaman niya ’yung sinasabi ’nong babae.

“Tsk! Nakita ng mga kaibigan ko na naka-front ride ’yang malande niyong kaibigan sa motor ng boyfriend ko at pumasok sila sa isang hotel. So, ano pa bang gagawin nila ’don?!” the girl said. I bit my lower lip because she’s making a scene.

“Umalis kana!” Yohan said. I know that he also mad dahil minsan lang siyang magsalita kapag may nang-aaway sa’min.

“Aalis ako. Pero bago ’ko umalis… sana naman pagsabihan niyo ’yung kaibigan niyo. Oops! Pa’no niyo nga pala pagsasabihan, eh, pare-parehas kayong pakantutin!” she said and smirked.

“How dare you!”

We all shocked because of what Claire did. Bigla niyang sinampal ’yung babae at ngayon ay nagsasabunutan na sila. Some student are watching and cheering them to continue what their doing. Primo and Yohan stopped them. Buti na lang ay naawat sila bago may dumating na teacher. I just sighed because I’m speechless.

“Ouch!” Claire groaned. We are here sa bahay nila Louis. After what happened earlier ay dito kami dumiretso, we also decided not to attend in the afternoon class. Ginagamot na din ni Louis ’yung mga kalmot ni Claire sa mukha.

“Ba’t naman kasi pinatulan mo pa. Totoo naman ’yung sinabi niyang paiyot tayong tatlo.” Louis said. Claire did not mind her and the latter looked at me with her bitch face. I smiled.

“So, tell us why you ended up fucking with committed guy?!” Claire said while raising her brows. I swallowed hard before answering her question.

“Remember the last time we drank in Hide Out? He is the guy na tingin ng tingin sa’kin.” I said and bit my lower lip. I’m nervous. Gosh!

“Siya din ba ’yung sumundo sa’yo na naka-Mio ’nong nakaraan na uminom tayo?” Louis asked. I slowly shooked my head while biting my lower lip. “Ay iba pa ’yon?!” she asked habang nanlalaki ang mata. I nodded.

Claire held my hands and looked at me with her serious face. “’Di ba ang usapan natin. Makikipag-sex lang tayo sa mga lalaking hindi committed. First time nangyari satin ’to, girl! Buti nalang ganon lang ang ginawa sa’yo ’nong babae. Napaaway pa ’ko! Shuta ka!” I smiled to her. Alam kong dinaan lang niya siya sa biro pero nag-aalala talaga siya.

Tinaas ko ’yung kaliwang kamay ko na parang nanunumpa. “Promised! I didn’t know that he’s committed with someone. I asked him pa nga if he has a girlfriend and he say none. I even stalked his socmed and wala akong nakitang in relationship.” I said and they shrugged.

“Pero in fairness din naman diyan sa naka-sex mo. Epek din naman kasi ’yung fes kaya hindi ka namin masisisi. Charot!” Louis said and we all laughed. This girl talaga. But to be honest, hindi naman ako sasama sa kanya kung panget siya, ’no!

“Oh, basta. This is the last time na makikipag-sex tayo sa may jowa, huh! Stalked niyong mabuti.” Claire said and we nodded. All I have to do now is to talk to my boy friends and say sorry sa girlfriend ng naka one night stand ko.

After that conversation, we decided to watch some movies and drink. May natira kasing isang bote ng Black Label sila Louis ’nong uminom sila ng mga pinsan niya ’nong nakaraan.

“So, sino sa lima ang susundo sa’yo ngayon?” she asked Claire smiling. Napatawa kami pareho ni Claire dahil sa sinabi niya.

“Ang dami naman ’nong lima, apat lang. Charot!” Claire joked.

“But seriously. Sino susundo satin, sis?” I asked. She looked at me and smiled. Napakunot naman ang noo namin ni Louis dahil sa kaartehan niya.

“Si Luke.”

“Luke?!” sabay na takang tanong namin ni Louis. Umarte pa siya na parang tangang kinikilig kaya pabirong sinabunutan siya ni Louis. I laughed.

“Luke Arellano.” she said and giggled. Our eyes got bigger because of what she said. Mas lalo tuloy nilakasan ni Louis ang paghila sa buhok niya.

“I thought you had crush on William Tan?” I asked frowning. She just rolled her eyes and sighed.

“Yes, pero hindi na ngayon dahil may jowa na siya.” she said then rolled her eyes again. My brows creased because I know Willam Tan is still single. And he’s very studious kaya. Sino naman ang niligawan ’non.

“Girl, sila na ni Gabbi.” Louis said. Nahalata niya sigurong nagtataka ako kaya siya na ang sumagot.

“Gabbi?! The reigning Miss Trans?!” I asked and they both nodded. Sabay-sabay naman kaming napatingin bigla sa likod namin ng may nag-park na motor. It was Luke. He smiled at us and gumanti naman kami ng ngiti. Hindi na din kami nakapag-usap dahil nakakahiya naman kay Luke.

We bid our goodbyes to Louis. Claire rode in front of Luke and I rode behind him. Pinauna ako ni Claire ipahatid sa amin bago siya hinatid ni Luke sa kanila. I told my gratitude to them before I walked inside of our house.

I went straight to the kitchen and I saw Manang Ine and her daughter Ate Sarah, they’re preparing our dinner. I greeted them good evening before I went to my room. After I take a half-bath, I wore my silk sleepwear and walk towards our kitchen.

While walking downstairs, I saw my younger sister, Rei. She’s already eating with Manang Ine and Ate Sarah. She looked shocked ng tabihan ko siya.

“Oh, you’re here na pala. I thought your at Ate Louis house.” she said. I smiled to her before ko kinuha ’yung rice.

“Yeah, I went there.” I said and she just nodded. We started eating, and if you’re wondering where’s our parents… well they’re busy doing their job.

My Mom was I former actress and now she’s working as a veterant director. My Dad is busy with his business. We own a gasoline station na kilala ngayon sa bansa, si Daddy ang nag-aasikaso ’non pero mukhang hindi lang ’yon ang inaasikaso niya dahil ilang beses na siyang nahuli ni Mommy na may babae. I know that they’re not in a good situation right now. And I know also na kaya lang sila nagsasama pa is because of Rei.

I’m very close with my Dad… before. He never asked me about my sexuality and he accept me for being what and who I am, he treats me like a real princess. But I remember seeing him with his mistress, I cried because the man I look up into was cheating on my Mom. Simula ’non, naging malamig na ’yung pakikitungo ko sa kanya. Si Mommy naman ay nilunod ’yung sarili sa work to that point na nakalimutan niyang may dalawa pa pala siyang anak. I sighed after reminiscing the past.

“Tapos kana, Reese?” Ate Sarah asked. I smiled to her before nodding. Kinuha niya ’yung plato ko saka nilagay sa lababo. Sinubukan ko pa silang tulungan pero tumanggi sila.

Sabay kami ni Rei umakyat sa taas and before she went inside to her room. I asked her. “Movie marathon?”

“Uhm, maybe next time. Magrereview pa ’ko, eh. I didn’t get the perfect score kanina, may isa ’kong mali.” she said. I shooked my head in disbelief. Me nga madalang lang maka-perfect dahil sa katabi pa then siya problematic dahil may isang mali. I sighed. Well, studious nga din pala siya.

Hindi ko na siya pinilit at pumasok na lang ako sa kwarto. I did my skin care before going on my bed. I open my Tiktok and Instagram account. I thought sasabog ’yung phone ko sa dami ng notifications. I’m one of the Tiktok Star, I have a one million followers on Tiktok then one hundred thousand followers on Instagram. My Twitter account has three hundred thousand followers because I posted my thirst trap photos there. After browsing some videos on my fyp, I closed my phone and watched movies on Netflix.

Two days have passed. My boy friends are not mad at me anymore, I treated them lunch yesterday in Kuya J. Of course, I also treated Louis and Claire.

I did not apologize to the girl who threw me a milk shake two days ago. The guy na sinasabi niyang boyfriend niya ay ex niya na pala, and isang linggo na silang hiwalay. How did I know?! Simple. The guy message me on Instagram, apologizing what the girl did to me. Hindi ko siya nireplayan but he’s still lucky dahil sa dami ng nagm-message request sa’kin ay binasa ko ’yung message niya. So apparently, ’yung naka one night stand ko ay single. I smiled.

“I’ll see you tonight!” Louis said. Today is Friday and Friday is club day, as in club with liquiors not club for school activities.

“Sa Hide Out ba ulit?” Claire asked. We all nodded dahil iyon na ang pinakamalapit na club dito. Isa pa, maraming estudyante na gwapo ang pumupunta ’don. Madalas mga ka-edad namin or mga sophomore sa college.

“Ikaw ang dare ngayon, vakla!” Louis pointed me. I shrugged and smirked. Well, I always won in dare. Everytime we do clubbing, we always have a dare and kapag hindi mo nagawa ’yung dare, ikaw ’yung magbabayad lahat ng nagastos that night.

Sabay-sabay kaming anim naglakad papuntang parking lot. Ten PM pa naman ’yung usapan namin kaya I can rest pa. I saw my reflection on the mirror and Miss Raiza’s right, my PE shorts was too short. Napagalitan niya kasi kami kanina dahil parang hindi na daw PE shorts ’yung suot namin and ang pula daw masyado ng lips ko. Louis and Claire told me kasi na I looked pale kapag light lang ’yung lipstick. Mas okay sa’kin na mapagalitan ng teacher kaysa maging panget sa paningin ng iba. Joke!

Hinatid ako ni Primo sa bahay namin using his NMAX. I know na gusto niya lang mag yabang sa’kin kaya he insist na ihatid ako.

“Thank you.” I said smiling.

“You’re always welcome. I’ll see you tonight.” he said and kissed my cheeks. He’s really my boy bestfriend, all of the boy friends I have, sa kanya ’ko pinakaclose. After we bid our goodbyes, I went inside our house.

I am here in my walk-in closet. Since our parents busy on their jobs, binubusog nila kami sa materyal na bagay. I turned around to see I how beautiful my walk-in closet is. I saw my designer bags and shoes, my perfume collection, and all my branded clothes. I went to my vanity mirror which is also here in my walk-in closet.

I looked at in my outfit. I’m wearing now a scarf top partnered by black short shorts since sa Hide Out lang naman kami. I leaned to see my first tattoo in my ribs. I got my first tattoo last month, my parents knows about it but they not get mad; not because they’re supportive but because they don’t care. I sighed.

I curled my long jet black hair. The length of my hair is up to the top of my butt. I never cut it since ’nong nagpahaba ako. I want to achieve ABG style kasi. I looked at my nails and it still look good pa naman kaya hindi na ’ko na bothered. I put all of my earing since I have a lot of piercing. Lastly, I put my red lipstick then I’m done. I achieved my Asian Baby Girl or ABG look.

I looked at my phone and I saw Louis is calling. I pressed the green button and spoke. “Hello?” I answered.

[Bitch! Papunta na daw dyan si Primo. Nandito na kami nina Claire at Yohan, si Edward papunta na din daw. Bilisan niyo na, huh!] she said.

“Okay —”

[Wait lang bakla ka! Papa-ready na namin kasi sa’yo ’yung credit card mo dahil feeling namin ay matatalo ka na tonight sa dare.] she said and I heard she’s laughing with Claire. I just rolled my eyes. Asa sila!

“So, what’s the dare ba?!” I confidently asked.

[Kailangan mong makipag-sex sa isang guy na nandito or kahit make-out lang. But ’yung make-out na BJ, huh!] she said. I heard that they laughed again. Tsk! The dare was so easy.

“Fine. I-ready niyo na Claire ’yung —”

[Wait a minute, kapeng mainit! Kami ang mamimili ng lalaking ib-blow mo tonight… and my napili na kami. Gusto kasi naming malaman ni Claire kung totoo ang chika na dakila siya at mala-kabayo!] she said and my brows furrowed. The way they laughed, parang kireng kire sila.

I sighed. “So, who’s the lucky guy?!”

[It’s the great, Zeyn Marius Mercado.] my brows furrowed because of the name. I didn’t know him but his name sounds familiar and screamed red flag. Fuck!

Chapter 02

“Louis, make it sure that he’s still single, huh!” I said while rolling my eyes. I’m still talking to Louis over the phone. And yes, I’m still here in my room waiting for Primo. I sighed.

[Bitch! Hindi ka naman namin ipapahamak, ’no! Pero para matahimik ka diyan… Oo, single siya.] Louis said. I already heard the loud noise of trance music that the DJ is playing.

“Okay. I’ll see you in a minute.” I said then hang the phone. I put all the things in my Dior bag. I also checked my wallet if my credit card was there and the… condom. Even I’m liberated, I also don’t want to have AIDS. It’s better to be safe.

My phone beeped and I saw Primo’s name in my phone screen. He texted that he’s already here. Inayos ko muna ’yung itsura ko bago naglakad palabas ng kwarto. When I’m about to walk downstairs, I saw Rei wearing her sleepwear.

“You’re leaving?” she asked. I smiled before nodding. “Oh, I forgot! It’s Friday nga pala. I’m planning pa naman na mag-movie marathon tayo since I don’t have school works.”

“Tomorrow night. I promise.” I said then she smiled nodding. We hugged each other before I walk downstairs.

Paglabas ko, I saw Primo standing beside his black Volkswagen Sedan. Napatakip ako ng bibig dahil sa gulat. Omy! He has a car na.

While I’m walking towards to his direction, I saw his face smirking. I rolled my eyes because I know that he will going to brag again.

“Hop in. But dahan-dahan lang kasi baka magasgasan.” he said then laughed. I rolled my eyes again. He’s too arrogant.

“Does Tito Paulo gave you this?” I asked. He nodded and looked at his first ever car. Nasa legal age na kasi siya kaya siguro niregaluhan siya ni Tito Paulo.

His Dad was also a former actor. Actually, his Dad is my Mom loveteam and they’re very famous back then since they do a lot of films. One of the reason why I’m close with Primo, ’cause we’re childhood friend.

Sumakay ako sa loob ng sasakyan niya at hinintay ko siyang makasakay sa passenger seat. I turned on the radio and the song is Thank You Next of AG. He’s driving and I’m singing, he looked at me and smirked. I don’t mind him and continue singing the lyrics.

“Daan muna ba tayo sa convenient store or may yosi kana?” he asked. I shooked my head first before showing him my pod vape.

“No need, I have pod vape. I bought this last week together with Louis and Claire.” I said and he just nodded. Lately, I realized that I should take care of my health. I’m taking hormones, drinking liquiors, and smoking cigarette. Kawawa naman ’yung kidney ko kapag hindi ko tinigilan ang paninigarilyo.

“’Yung vape ko nakatambak lang sa kwarto, wala kasing juice.” he said. Tumingin muna siya sa vape ko bago nagsalita ulit. “Iyan ba, anong flavor ng juice?”

“It’s vanilla.”

After I said that, he tried my pod vape. Hindi ko sana siya papahiramin because I’m LC, laway concious. But nakipagkulitan siya and he told me that he brushed his teeth. I just shrugged and sighed.

Twenty minutes of driving before we arrived in Hide Out. Pagkababa namin sa kotse niya ay nilapitan niya ’ko at humawak sa bewang ko. His gesture is not new to me, he always do this everytime we do clubbing. And hindi ako naiilang because I’m compatible to him.

Before entering the club. I looked at him and asked. “Uhm, I was wondering why Tito Paulo gave you a car all of a sudden. It’s not your birthday naman.”

He sighed before answering my question. “The truth is, Daddy gave it to me because I dated the girl na nirereto niya sa ’kin. Anak ng kumpare niya.” he said and I smirked.

“Interesting.” I said and laughed. He just shooked his head before he encircled his arm on my waist. We walked towards the entrance of Hide Out. Hindi pa man kami pumapasok ay naririnig ko na ’yung maingay na tunog ng kanta.

Pagpasok namin, sumalubong sa ’min ang mga taong nagtatalunan, nagsasayawan, at ang iba ang naghahalikan na. We continue walking because we can’t see where the hell our friends are. Primo still gripping my waist because it’s a bit crowded tonight.

“Putangina, pare! Si Reese ba ’yon?! Tangina, ang ganda nga sa personal! Kinis pa ng legs.” someone said. I craned my neck to the left side and I saw two men looking at me with amusement in their eyes. I think they’re also a Senior High Student because of their built. I smiled and waved my hands to them.

“Putangina! Kumaway at ngumiti, pare!” the chinito guy said. Siniko naman siya ’nong moreno habang hindi tinatanggal ang tingin sa ’kin. He give me his seductive looked and I just smiled. Calm down, asshole. It’s just smiled.

Napatingin naman ako kay Primo ng mahina niyang pisilin ang bewang ko. He leaned and whispered in my ear.

“Easyhan mo, baka labasan agad ang mga malilibog.” he said and we both laughed. I didn’t look at the two men after that and we continue walking until we saw Louis and Claire, waving their hands. As usual, they’re wearing hubadera’s outfit.

We walked to their spot and they’re sitting in u-shape sofa. I kissed Yohan and Edward cheeks before I sat down next to Louis. Bumeso din ako sa kanilang dalawa ni Claire.

“Uminom ka muna bago mo ’to bayaran lahat mamaya.” she said and tumawa silang dalawa ni Claire ng malakas. Thanks to the music dahil hindi narinig ng ibang tao ang tawa nila. I rolled my eyes.

I get the shot glass from her and I drink it straight. Napangiwi ako matapos inumin iyon. I sipped the lemonade to lessen the bitterness. Fuck!

“Bakit pakiramdam ko ay siguradong-sigurado kayo na matatalo ako tonight?” I asked as my brows furrowed. Ngumiti naman sila ng nakakaloko. What’s wrong with them?!

“’Cause the guy we’re talking is not into Trans women. Biological women lang ang pinapatulan niya kaya mababa ang chance mong mapapayag siyang makipag-sex sa’yo.” Claire said. She’s holding her shot glass.

“So, he’s homophobic?” I asked while raising my brows. They shooked their heads so my forehead creased. “Then what? Can you elaborate? I’m confused!”

Louis sighed before she spoke. “Hindi siya homophobic. Hindi naman ibig sabihin na kapag ang lalaki ay hindi pumapatol sa Trans ay homophobic na siya. Kumbaga, hindi niya lang prefer ang mga Trans, mas gusto niya ang mga babae talaga. Cis women, I mean. ’Tsaka wag kang mag-alala dahil kaibigan niyan si Gab, hindi naman ’yan nananakit ng physical. He supported Trans women community pero hindi lang talaga siya pumapatol sa mga Trans women.”

I sighed and nodded. “But you told me naman na kahit BJ lang, right?” I asked and they both nodded. “Wait, how can I prove pala that I had sex with him or I suck his dick?”

Louis grinned her teeth. “Para naman hindi ka kabahan, sige ganito. Kung makaka-sex mo siya tonight, dapat mag-send ka sa ’min ng magkasama kayo sa isang kwarto habang nakahiga kayo sa kama na walang damit, hindi naman kailangan kita ’yung private parts niyo. Kung BJ naman, kailangan mong picturan ’yung nota niya na hawak-hawak mo…” she looked at my nails and smirked. “Dapat makikita namin ’yung singsing at ’yung maganda mong nails sa camera, huh!” she said and laughed.

“Tsk! Fine. But who’s the guy ba? And where is he?” I asked. Sinundan ko ’yung tinuturo ng daliri niya then I saw three guys drinking a Jager and Jack Daniel on their table. “Sino sa kanila?”

“The guy wearing plain white shirt.” Claire said. Then my gazed went to the guy who’s wearing plain white shirt.

He’s laughing with his friends while holding a shot glass in his right hand, ininom niya ’yung laman ’non at napatingin ako sa adams apple niya ng gumalaw iyon, that’s fucking hot. I noticed his height because he suddenly stood up, I think he’s a six footer. He’s a tall, dark, and… not so handsome, well for me, but he had strong sex appeal. His body is lean but it’s really suits on him. He’s the real definition of matangkad na payat na naninira ng buhay. Kidding!

“Gwapo, ’no? Kaso mapanakit daw.” Louis said. I looked at her before I took the shot glass. I rolled my eyes and shrugged.

“Not really.”

“Oh, ubusin muna natin ’yung isang bote ng Cuervo ng masulit mo naman ’yung ibabayad mo ngayong gabi. Charot!” Louis said and laughed. Claire laughed with her kaya napatingin sa kanila sina Primo. Shinot ko na lang ’yung tagay and hindi na sila pinansin pa.

My gazed went to the guy who’s wearing a plain white shirt. My eyes got bigger because he’s looking at me and he’s… smiling. Shit! Maiihi yata ako dahil sa kaba. I immediately lowered my gazed and composed myself. Self, calm down. I should give him my most seductive look para hindi ako mahirapan kapag lumapit ako sa kanya at inaya siyang makipag-sex. I sighed before looking at him again. But to surprised, he’s not looking at me anymore. Wrong timing!

After we finished drinking the first bottle of Cuervo. Louis and Claire pulled me in dance floor. Wala akong nagawa at nagpahila na lang sa kanila. Isa pa, wala akong makakasama sa table namin dahil umalis na din ang mga boys.

The music is getting crazier and wilder. I scanned my surroundings and noticed the chinito guy approaching in my direction. He smiling from ear to ear so I smiled to him. To be honest, he’s handsome. I love chinito guy kasi.

“Hi, Reese.” he said smiling. Mas naging chinito tuloy yung mga mata niya. I gave him my genuine smiled because he’s too cute.

“Oh, you know me. Hello, what’s your name?” I said smiling. His brows furrowed as he approached my ear.

“What? I can’t hear you.” he said and itinuro yung kaliwang tenga niya, sign that he can’t hear me. I come closer to him and whispered in his ear.

“I said what’s your name?” I whispered.

“Oh, it’s Christopher but you can call me Chris.” he said smirking. I smiled before he encircled his arm in my waist.

The DJ played one of the famous songs on Tiktok but in remix and erotic way. We all screamed the lyrics before we twerked. I’m still facing the chinito guy and he’s biting his lower lip. I lowered my gazed to see his cock. And not to surprise, the bulge is very visible. I smirked. Men are so… nevermind.

“Cuz she twerk, twerk, twerk.” kanta naming lahat. Nag-twerk ako dahil dito ako nakilala sa pagtuwad-tuwad sa Tiktok. Naramdaman ko naman ’yung pagdikit ng matigas na bagay sa likod ko. I faced the chinito guy and he looked away.

“I’m sorry. Hindi ko lang napigilan idikit, ang hot mo kasi.” he said shyly. He should be grateful since he’s my type; if he wasn’t, I’d have already slapped him across the face.

“I know I’m hot.” I said before pulling his colar and kissed him. I’m sure he’s surprised, but he kissed me back. After a couple of seconds, I stopped kissing him.

“Bakit ka huminto?” he asked and his forehead creased. I gave him a mock sad look. And I also pouted my lips while rubbing his face.

“You’re definitely my type, but your not a good kisser. Magsanay ka muna at next time na natin ituloy ’yung halikan. Don’t worry, I’ll send you a link. Watch and learn, huh!” I said smirking. Hindi ko na siya hinintay pang makapagsalita and I walked towards our table.

When I arrived in our table, nandon na sina Claire at Louis, but the boys are missing. I sat down next to Claire and she gave me a pissed off smiled. I rolled my eyes to her. Bitch!

“Why?” I asked her.

“Nothing.” she said still smirking.

“Last two shot bago mo gawin ’yung dare, baka kasi bigla silang umalis.” Louis said and gave me the shot glass. Again, I drink it straight.

“Grabe kanina, girl, hindi mo nakita. May isang babaeng lasing na tas biglang lumuhod sa harap ni Zeyn, pilit tinatanggal ’yung buhol ng shorts. Naloka kaming lahat kanina.” Claire said and laughed. Ganon kalala ’yung pagnanasa sa kanya?

“Sa true. Bet kong ngang sabihin ’don kanina sa merlat na, itabi mo ako na. Kaso na brokot akis at baka ma-boggie wonderland si akla. Eme!” Louis said laughing. Claire laughed with her while drinking her shot.

After I drank the last shot, I stood up. Napatingin naman sila sa ’kin ng nagtataka. “Gagawin ko na ’yung dare.” I said before walking to the guy who’s wearing a plain white shirt.

“Go, akla! Ikalma mo ang invisible kipay mong maluwag.” I heard Louis shouting those words. I don’t mind her and continue walking where the white guy shirt is.

Nang malapit na ’ko sa gawi nila. I saw his friend looking at me, napatingin din tuloy siya. His forehead creased but I just smiled. Give him your most seductive look, Reese!

“Hi.” I greeted them.

“Hello, Reese. Pina-follow kita sa Tiktok, eh. Kaso zero following ka kaya hindi na ’ko magpapa-follow back.” the guy who has braces said and laughed. “I’m Arthur.”

“I’m Troy, ito naman si Zeyn.” the white skin guy said. I looked at Zeyn and I noticed that his eyes is a little bit grayish. I smiled.

“I know.” their mouth formed an ‘o’. “And I’m going to be straight forward. Can you fuck me?” I said and looked at Zeyn. His friends howled, but he just looked at me with his wondering face. I’m right, he has strong sex appeal.

“Pota, pre. Kung ayaw mo, itabi mo ako na.” Arthur said. Binatukan naman siya ni Troy and binigyan siya ng masamang tingin ni Zeyn. I smiled to him.

“If you want, you can join us. Let’s do threesome.” I said to Arthur. But hindi ko na narinig pa ang sagot niya ng hitakin ako ni Zeyn paalis sa pwesto nila. Habang naglalakad kami palayo sa pwesto nila ay nahagip ng mata ko sina Claire at Louis na mukhang gulat na gulat. I smirked at them. I told you, I’m not going to lose in dare.

Dinala niya ko sa madilim na parte ng club at walang makakapansin sa’min dito dahil hindi naman ’to daanan. Dinikit niya ’ko sa pader at kinulong gamit ang mga bisig niya. I smirked, but my smirked fade out because he’s clenching his jaw. What’s wrong?!

“Ano ’yung sinabi mo kanina?” he asked still clenching his jaw. His eyes is glaring at me. He really looked mad.

“What was what?” I asked.

“’Yung sinabi mong tirahin kita! Look, Miss, sorry pero hindi ako kumakantot ng walang —” I stopped him using my index finger.

“You know what? I don’t care, just shut up and kiss me.” I said using my most seductive voice. He looked at my lips and I thought hindi niya gagawin but he suddenly grabbed my nape and kissed me.

Nakipagpaligsahan ako sa pakikipaghalikan. And yes, he’s a good kisser. After one minute of kissing, he stopped and looked in my eyes.

“Gusto mo ’to?! Sige, luhod!” he said dominantly. Dahil sa pagiging dominant niya ay dahan-dahan akong lumuhod sa harapan ng alaga niya. I slowly looked at him and I saw his adams apple move. Hottie!

Nanginginig kong tinanggal ang buhol ng shorts niya at ng magtagumpay ay sumalubong sa’kin ang matigas niyang alaga. Shit! Why I’m fucking nervous?! I used to do this. Calm down, Reese.

I looked at him again and he’s looking at me intently. I swallowed hard ’cause I can’t see any emotion in his eyes.

The rumor is not a lie, he’s very blessed. Nakapaling pakaliwa ang alaga niya na bakat na bakat sa suot niyang gray boxer brief. Dahan-dahan kong hinawakan ’yung dulo ng brief niya and I already saw his pubic hair. Hindi makapal at hindi din naman manipis. Sakto lang.

Tangkang ibaba ko na ng tuluyan ng pinigilan niya ’ko. “Pota, hindi ko talaga kaya!” he said saka mabilis na sinuot ang shorts niya.

I was shocked because of what he said. At dahil sa gulat ko ay hindi ko namalayang nakalayo na pala siya. Did he reject me?! Unbelievable! And for the first ever in my life, I lose in dare. Shit!

Chapter 03

“Alam mo hanggang ngayon nagtataka ko kung bakit natalo ka sa dare. Hindi naman sa ayaw naming natalo ka, pero kasi magkasama na kayo ’tas walang nangyari.” Louis said. She looked at me and raised her left brow. I sighed.

We are here in Aesthetic and Beauty Lounge of Miss Destiny Ferrer. Nagkayayaan kasi kaming magpagawa ng nails since ang tagal na ’nong last. And we will going to buy hormones din kasi.

“Baka kasi hindi mo ginalingan, sis!” Claire said. I looked at her and malapit ng matapos ’yung nails niya.

I rolled my eyes. “Excuse me, he’s already hard kaya!” I sound defensive so they both laughed. Bitches!

After what happened between me and Zeyn that night, I went to our table and told them that I lose in dare. At first, they was shocked because someone refused me. But after a couple of seconds, they laughed out loud. And for the record, I paid almost fifteen thousand just for one night. Fucking insane, right?!

“Pero alam mo, dzai. Swerte ka na din na walang nagyari sa inyong dalawa dahil kung hindi, ay sabog peanut butter mo kay Zeyn.” Louis said while laughing. Claire laughed with her, and of course, I rolled my eyes at them.

“Shrue.” Claire said.

“Gaga! Kilala niyo si Rachelle, ’di ba?” Louis asked. Claire and I nodded to her. “Nakakainuman ko kasi minsan si akla, ’di ba? Na-chika niya kasi sa ’kin na nagalaw daw ni Zeyn ’yung kaibigan niyang Grade 12 ’tas isang linggo daw dinugo at hindi makalakad.”

“That was exaggerrated!” I said rolling my eyes. Claire naman is can’t stop laughing because of Louis said. Again, they both laughed like a crazy bitches. I just sighed and shooked my head.

“Gaga, totoo nga! Akala nga daw hindi na makakalakad. Napaisip talaga ’ko kung ga’no ba kahaba ’yon at muntik ng hindi makalakad si Ate mong girl.” Louis said.

“Can you please stop?! You’re talking nonsense!” I said rolling my eyes to her. It was so OA to the point na hindi ka na makalakad dahil lang nagalaw ka ng malaking nota. Believe me, she’s lying.

“Can you please stop?! You’re talking nonsense!” she said mimicking my voice. I don’t mind her and just look at my nails. My nails are pretty na again. It was a brown acrylic nails and it looks aesthetic. I’m living pinterest girl. Joke!

When our nails done, we went to the counter to pay our bills. I also bought my hormones, collagens, and vitamins. I’m using progynova for my estrogen and androcur for my male-blocker. I smiled after I get my maintenance.

“Napakaganda ng mukha mo. Tinitigan kita kanina pa, hindi nakakasawa. Effortless ’yung ganda mo, naka.” Miss Destiny said while looking at me. I smiled shyly. The way she compliments me, I know it’s pure.

“Thank you po.” I said smiling.

We’re on our way to the parking lot now. Louis looked at us and asked. “May lakad pa ba kayong iba?” I shooked my head while Claire nodded at her.

“Why?!” I asked frowning.

“Bibili kasi akong pang regalo kay Sue. Birthday ni akla sa linggo.” Louis said then she looked at Claire while raising her brows. “Saan naman ang lakad mo, dzai?”

“Nagyayaya kasing mag-lunch si Luke. Naka-oo na ’ko sa kanya, da’t kanina mo pa sinasabi.” Claire said and Louis just sighed. Para hindi sila mag-away, I told to Louis na ako na lang ang sasama sa kanya. Isa pa, bibili din ako ng almond flour because we will bake banana bread tomorrow.

After Luke picks up Claire. Louis and I went straight to the mall. She decided to purchase a gift in Zara. While we were finding the perfect gift for Sue, I noticed that she’s smiling from ear to ear everytime her phones beep. I rolled my eyes.

“I think bagay ’to kay Sue.” I said showing a halter top. I know she’ll love this because she also a hubadera.

“Edi iyan ang i-regalo mo, hindi ka ba pupunta?” she asked frowning. My forehead creased. “Gaga! In-invite ka ni akla hindi mo siguro napansin sa dami ng nag d-dm sayo.”

I just shrugged. Maybe hindi ko nga lang napansin because a lot of people are messaging me in Instagram. After we bought our gifts for Sue, we decided to eat lunch in Bon Chon. Then after eating lunch we both went home.

Rei is busy doing her project and nag-usap naman na kami na bukas na lang ng umaga mag-bake. I just did my work out then do online shopping. After we ate dinner, I did my skin care and slept.

“Kailan daw uuwi si Daddy? He messages you ba?” Rei asked me while she’s mixing the almond flour and egg. We’re making banana bread right now. I shrugged.

“I don’t know. Maybe he doesn’t want to go home because his mistress is enjoying Amanpulo too much.” I said rolling my eyes. She smiled at me and sighed.

“Ate, Daddy just busy doing our business. He told us naman na sa Amanpulo talaga gusto mag team building ng employees niya.” she said smiling. Sometimes, I’m wondering who’s the Ate. If siya ba or me.

“Whatever.”

We continue making the banana bread until she put it in oven. While we were waiting, we sat in the couch to watch movies on Netflix.

Nasa kalagitnaan na kami ng movie when my phone beeped. I look at it and I saw Louis name in my phonescreen. She messages me on Instagram.

wisgarcia:

girl kaya siguro hindi ka pinatulan ni zeyn kasi may bago siyang kalandian hahahaha.

She also sent me a screenshot. It was picture of Zeyn na naka-wacky and then halatang topless. I look at his username and it’s not him, pangalan ng babae. The caption is ‘cute ng future ko, joke’. My forehead creased after reading the caption. Cringe.

I searched the girl username. When I saw it, I immediately click it. She has a fair skin and big boggies, I scrolled down to see her other photos. After stalking her, I could say that she’s not pretty and her feed is so baduy. Twenty-twenty na girl. Now I know why he refused me because he likes chararat girl. I laughed inside my head.

I clicked the account of Zeyn because the girl mentioned him on the story. He had 5 posts, 36k followers, and 75 following. I scrolled down to see his posts. The lastest one is he’s on the yacht and not wearing anything on top, nakatalikod din siya kaya hindi kita ’yung mukha. The next three posts is just the place he visited. Then the last post is his childhood photo which is also his profile photo. Okay, he’s cute in his profile photo and he’s very lowkey. I clicked the follow button and after that I immediately turn off the internet connection. The hell I’m doing this.

“Ate, you’re not watching!” Rei said. She gave me a stern look. I just smiled and peace sign. After we finished the movie, we ate the banana bread and we do photoshoot. We couldn’t deny the fact that we are siblings because we look a like.

Two days have passed and Zeyn still not follow me on Instagram. I mean, I have a lot of followers so he should be grateful because I followed him. But in the end, I just shrugged. Ipa-follow niya din ako, I swear.

“Bakla, kaasar pagmumukha mo! Ngiting-ngiti ka na naman diyan!” Claire said to Louis. We were eating lunch here in PP. Louis just rolled her eyes and looked at Claire.

“Wag kang ano diyan! Nag-send ng picture ’yung kalandian kong swhimer.” Louis said and stuck out her tongue. Para siyang bata. I sighed.

“Kawawa naman ’yung lalaki na ’yan hindi tatagal sa’yo ng isang linggo.” Edward suddenly said and laughed. Primo and Yohan just shooked their heads while smirking.

“Epal ampota! Pag ito umabot ng isang linggo may katok ka sa’kin.” Louis said to Edward. The latter just laughed. We continue eating na after ng dalawa magbangayan.

When I looked into the door, I noticed five men laughing. But my gaze went to the man in the midst. He remained unchanged, particularly in terms of his physical appearance. He looks exactly like the boy I used to love. He’s intelligent, attractive, gentleman, and family-oriented. Maybe it’s true that opposites attracts.

“Hoy, sila Clarence.” Louis said when she also saw Clarence and his friends. Napatingin din tuloy sina Primo sa ex ko.

Clarence is my first and last boyfriend. We’ve been together for seven months and I was Grade 9 that time. Our relationship was happy and healthy not until he cheated on me, pinagpalit ako sa may kipay. I don’t know why he did that, I gave everything to him naman. Lahat ng maiisip mo na pwede kong ibigay, binigay ko. To be honest, he’s the perfect man na sana kaso lang he’s a cheater.

“Gumuwapo ’yang ex mo, ’no?” Edward said.

“Tanga, mas gwapo ’yan ’nong jowa ’yan ni Reese!” Claire said and rolled her eyes to Edward. I just smiled. Of course, magaling akong mag-alaga, eh.

I looked where Clarence is and nahuli kong nakatingin din siya sa ’kin. Then he immediately lowered his gaze, he look shy. Well, I’ve finally moved on kaya natitingnan ko na siya ng ganito.

“Baka naman matunaw, sis. Kantahan na lang kita.” Louis said so my eyes went to her. “In another life I would be your girl… or… thought I end up with Clarence but he wasn’t a match.” she sang and laughed out loud. Insane!

“Fúck you!” I said smiling.

I never glance to Clarence again until we finished eating in PP. The afternoon class is so boring. I want to sleep but I also scared to be scold. Buti na lang mabilis lumipas ang oras and Mr. Rodrigo say his goodbye.

“Hatid kita?” Primo asked. I didn’t look at him since I’m fixing my things. Then when I’m done fixing my things, I looked at him.

“Oka —”

“Ay, Primo! Hindi kasi makakasabay sa’yo ’tong si Reese ngayon kasi manunuod kami ng practice sa pool stadium.” Louis said and she smiled to Primo.

“Huh?!” I said frowning.

Louis gave me a meaningful look and rubbed my hair. “Gaga! ’Di ba nag-usap na tayo kanina bago tayo pumasok ng afternoon class. Nakita mo lang si Clarence nawala ka na sa sarili.”

“Uh, yeah.” I uttered and looked to Primo. “Next time mo na lang ako ihatid. I forgot that me and Louis had errands nga pala.” I said smiling. Primo just nodded and kissed my cheeks. He also kissed Louis cheeks before walking out. After Primo went out, I faced Louis.

“What are we going to do there?!” I asked frowning.

“May practice kasi ngayon lahat ng mga swimmer athlete. ’Yung kalandian ko ’di ba swimmer. Nag-chat siya kanina na magkita kami sa pool stadium, eh, nahihiya naman akong magpunta mag-isa kaya samahan mo na ’ko. Please!” she said pouting her lips. I rolled my eyes and sighed.

“Fine! But where’s Claire?” I asked.

“Eh di naglande na din. Nagmamadali ngang lumabas at hinihintay daw siya kanina pa ni Luke sa parking lot. Echos niya, eh, sabay-sabay lang naman uwian ng mga senior. Ang sabihin niya dilig na dilig na siya. Pakantot talaga ang gaga.”

I laughed.

“Pareho lang naman kayo.”

“Ay, hiyang hiya naman po kami sa pagiging maluwag mo. Para ngang Mall of Asia ’yang butas mo, sa sobrang luwag pwede kang maglibot. Char!” she said and pinalo ’yung butt ko. I laughed because of her craziness.

We’re on our way to the pool stadium. And after a couple of minutes, nasa harap na kami ng pinto. We went inside and we saw a lot of swimmer. Ang iba ay napapatingin sa mukha ko and ’yung iba naman ay kumakaway pa. I just smiled and waved my hands also.

“Sis, ’don tayo.” Louis said and tinuro ’yung bleachers na malapit sa lalaking ka-ngitian niya. I rolled my eyes. She’s an expert when it comes to this.

The guy greteed me and I greteed him back. He’s not handsome but he’s not also ugly. Sakto lang ’yung physical appearance niya. We sat in bleachers and watched them to do their work out. Lumipas ang minuto na ’yung katabi ko lang ang masaya. I sighed.

“Ouch!” I groaned when Louis pinched my barbie arms. I looked at her with my brows furrowed and she look dumb with that face. What happened to her?!

“Sizt, si Zeyn!” she said and saka ako pinalo sa braso. Hindi ko na inintindi ’yung sakit and tumingin ako sa gawi ng tinitingnan niya, then I saw Zeyn walking towards our direction. The way he walked, screamed manliness. Shit!

“Baka naman tumulo pa ’yung laway mo.” Louis said. Hinawakan ko ’yung labi ko kung may laway ba, and I’m thankful dahil wala. I gave Louis a glared look and she gave me a piece sign. I sighed.

Bigla kaming napatingin ng dumaan sa harapan namin si Zeyn ng hindi kami — o ako tinitingnan. Wait, I’m expecting ba na i-approach niya ’ko?! What the hell, Reese!

“I didn’t know Zeyn is an athlete.” I asked as I faced Louis.

“Yeah, he is. A second year crimonology student, vocalist ng banda nila, middle child, nag go-golf din siya kasama mga tropa, at may malaking buràt na nagpapadugo ng mashishikip na kipay. Emzs!” she said and tumawa sa huling sinabi. I thought she’s serious na. I sighed.

After a minute, I saw Zeyn again wearing a swimming trunks and nothing on top. He doesn’t have abs but he look hot. I swallowed hard when my gazed went to his bulge. Buko, sizmars. Kidding!

“Shutangnames naman ni Zeyn may pasantol!” Louis said laughing. I raised my brows to her because someone might heard her.

“Lower your tone.” I said.

I watched Zeyn. Mula sa pagtayo niya sa gilid ng pool, sa pag-ayos niya ng trunks, at sa pagtalon niya sa tubig. Lahat ng galaw niya ay napaka-lalaki.

Hindi ko alam na kanina ko pa pala siya tinitigan and I was shocked because he’s looking at me now. Wait! Calm down, Reese.

When I looked at him, he still looking at me. And this time, he’s smiling. Gosh! My body’s trembled because of his smile. But I immediately composed my self because this is my chance. I smirked inside my head. Sabi ko na makukuha ko din siya agad, eh.

They all swam again and pag-ahon nila ay mas lalong bumakat ’yung bukol niya sa trunks dahil basa. And after he fixed his hair, he looked at me and smiled. I smirked before giving him my geniune smile. After that, he waved his hand before smirking. I got you now, Zeyn Marius Mercado.

I looked at Louis and she’s busy watching the guy she’s flirting. I just shrugged and looked at Zeyn again. Inabot ng more than an hour ’yung practice bago sila dinismiss. Naglakad palapit sa gawi namin ’yung kalandian ni Louis, but my eyes went to the guy behind him. It’s Zeyn.

He’s walking to my direction and I bit my lower trying to hide my excitement. And when he’s in front of me, tinaas ko ’yung tingin dahil pilit bumababa. Joke!

“Hi, babe.” he said. My eyes got bigger because of what he called me. Babe, huh. So fast, Mr. Mercado. Hindi ko alam na ganito kadali landiin siya. I smirked.

And when I’m about to call him babe. Someone spoke behind my back. “Hello, babe.”

Napatingin ako sa nagsalita sa likod ko and I saw the girl who mentioned him on Instagram story. This is the girl who has a fair skin and big boggies. Zeyn kissed her as the girl hugged him. After that kissing scene, Zeyn looked at me and smirked.

“Let’s go, babe.” he said.

Fuck! After all this times, he’s playing at me. ’Yung ngiti at ’yung kaway ay hindi para sa’kin, kung hindi para sa babaeng nasa likod ko. Shit! Nakakahiya.

I sighed. He want to play with me, huh. Then we will play. I hate you so much, Zeyn Marius Mercado!!!

Chapter 04

“Sizt, okay ka lang?” Louis asked me. Tinanggal ko ’yung tingin ko kina Zeyn at sa babaeng kasama niya na parehong naglalakad palabas ng pool stadium. I faced Louis and nodded.

“Yeah.” I smiled.

“Wait lang, huh. Hintayin lang natin makapagpalit si Harry ’tas ihahatid ka namin sa inyo.” She said and I nodded. “Hoy, wag kang mag-alala may motor ’to! Corrupt kasi ’yung Tatay niya sa City Hall. Charot!” she said laughing. Napatawa at napailing na lang ako sa kagagahan niya.

While we were waiting for that Harry guy. Someone called me from behind, so Louis and I faced him. “Hi, Reese.”

It was Rex, one of my hookup. If I’m not mistaken, three times ko ’yata siyang naka-sex. The first and second is after we drank at the club and the third one is after party. I forgot that he’s also a swimmer athlete nga pala. I didn’t recognize him earlier, maybe because all my attention was on Zeyn.

I greeted him and smiled.

“Hello.”

“Pauwi na kayo? Hatid na kita?” he said smiling. And when I’m about to answer his question, Louis spoke behind my back.

“Hindi na. Nakakahiya naman sumakay sa kotse mo baka kasi magasgasan namin, ’di ba nga sabi mo mahal pa naman ’yon. ’Tsaka wag ka ng mag-abala pa, may maghahatid na sa’min ni Reese.” Louis said and she gave Rex a fake smile. The latter just shrugged.

“Okay.” he said and looked at me. “I’ll see you around, babe.” he added. He also winked at me before walking out of the pool stadium.

“Alam mo ang yabang talaga ng lalaking ’yan! Lakas ng hangin sa katawan ng pota! Hindi ko alam sa’yo kung bakit mo pinatulan sa kama.” Louis said disgusted. She also rolled her eyes. I sighed.

“Simply because he’s my type. He’s neat, has a good scent, good in bed, and lastly he’s daks.” I said smirking. She rolled eyes again, feeling frustrated ang gaga.

“Ewan ko sa’yo!” she lastly said before we saw Harry walking in our direction. We walked towards to the parking lot, I rode behind Harry and Louis rode in front of him.

After thirty minutes, we arrived in front of our house. I said my gratitude to them and I gave Louis a meaningful look. She just smiled and winked at me. Bitch!

I went straight to my room and take a half-bath. After wearing my nighties, I walked downstairs to eat dinner. Nagkamustahan lang naman kaming apat nina Manang Ine and I went back to my room after eating dinner.

While I’m lying in my bed, I checked all my social media accounts. On Tiktok, some of the famous Tiktokerist messaging me saying ‘hi’ or ‘hello’. On Instagram, I checked my feed and I saw my last post is a month ago. And Zeyn still not following me. Asshole!

Again, two days have passed. Wala namang ibang nangyari sa school bukod sa pagbibigay nila ng mga tasks. And two days ago since I met Zeyn. We were eating now a snacks here in cafeteria.

“Hoy, sizt!” Louis scold me. I looked at her with my brows furrowed. “Sa lingo na birthday ni aklang Sue. Magsabay na tayong magpunta, huh!”

I rolled my eyes to her after eating my brownies. Pinagpag ko ’yung palad ko bago tumingin sa kanya. “Kay nino tayo sasakay?” I asked raising my left brows.

“Kay Primo!” she said. Primo immediately look to Louis aftter hearing his name. “Pupunta kang birthday ni Sue, ’di ba?” Louis asked and Primo just nodded.

“Yeah.” Primo said and looked to his cookies again. Louis looked to Claire while smiling.

“Girl, ikaw pupunta ka sa birthday party ni Sue?” Louis asked Claire. The latter shooked her head before answering the question.

“Magkasabay sila ng birthday ng pinsan ko, ’di ba? Eh, eighteen birthday pa kaya hindi ako pwedeng hindi magpunta. Last year naman nandon ako sa party ni akla, ’tsaka nag-chat na ’ko sa kanyang hindi ako makakapunta. Naiintindihan naman daw niya.” Claire said so we all nodded.

“Sayang naman. Debut kineme din ni akla since eighteen na din siya.” Louis said pouting. She faced Yohan and Edward. “Kayo pupunta kayo?”

“Hindi ko naman close ’yon.” sabay at parehong sabi nina Yohan and Edward. After that, we continue eating our snacks. We all silent since we’re busy browsing in our phone but Yohan break it.

“Uhm, guys. Is it true that next week na ’yung Halloween Fair?” he asked. We all faced him and nodded. He just sighed. “Gawaan na naman ng mga props.”

“Sa true! Tas ang balita ko pa, sa ’tin naka assign ’yung mga paggawa ng maze. Kaasar nga, eh!” Louis said. I don’t mind her and continue browsing at my phone. Since may ilang minutes pa kaming break ay nag-usap sila at nagharutan.

“Hello, Reese.” napahinto sa pagtatawanan sina Primo, Yohan, at Edward. And we all faced the man who called my name.

I glanced at him and I was taken aback by who was standing in front of me. It was Steve, the nerd guy from STEM. Sabi nina Primo may gusto daw sa ’kin ’to, hindi ko naman sineseryoso dahil naaawa ako sa kanya kapag nab-bully siya, and he’s nice kaya. I waved my hands to him and smiled.

“Hi, Steve.” I greeted.

“Sorry sa abala. Ibibigay ko lang sana ’to sa’yo.” he said then come closer to me. He gave me a white folder and chocolate bar. “Ginawan kita ng project sa subject ni Mr. Rodrigo, nabalitaan ko kasing subject teacher niyo din siya kaya sinabay ko na ’yung paggawa ng iyo. Sana hindi ka ma-offend.” he said and lowered his gazed. I held his hand and he looked at me nervously. I smiled.

“I’m not offended and will never be. Thank you so much about this. But to be honest, you don’t have to do this.” I said smiling. Napakamot muna siya sa batok bago ngumiti.

“Take that as my gratitude kasi hindi mo tinanggihan ’yung resquest kong video greeting para sa pinsan ko ’nong birthday niya.” he said sincerely. I smiled.

“Tangina, lover boy!” Edward said and sabay-sabay silang nagtawanan nina Primo. I gave them a serious look to get them to stop what they were doing. Asshole!

“Naku, Steve! Wag ka na diyan kay Reese, masisira lang ’yang buhay mo.” Claire said laughing. Louis and the boys laughed with her. Mga bullies talaga. I sighed.

I looked at Steve and he gave me a genuine smile. “Okay lang masira ang buhay ko kung si Reese ang sisira ’non.” He said smiling.

My friends howled because of what the lad said. Steve looked at me smiling, I gave him an awkward smile. I didn’t know that he has side like this. Shit!

“Pumi-pick up lines ka pa, nerd. Sige na bumalik kana sa room niyo! Wag ka ng dumagdag sa mga lalaki ni Reese.” Primo said and they all laughed out loud. What’s wrong with them?!

Steve bid his goodbye to me and I waved my hands to him, saying my goodbye. After makalayo ni Steve, I gave my friends a serious look and rolled my eyes at them. They all just chuckled. Insane!

“Hoy, sizt! Chat na lang kita sa Sunday. Mag-online ka lang sa messenger, huh!” Louis said. We are all going home since kakatapos lang ng klase namin kay Mr. Rodrigo. And he announced that we have a project nga. Well, I’m done since Steve do it.

“Okay.” I said.

Sunday came. And I’m in front of my vanity mirror applying my red lipstick. Pool party pala ang party ni Sue and sa isang kilalang resort ang venue niya. So, I’m decided to wear a white thin strap ruffled crop top and white short shorts. Uuwi din naman kami kaya hindi na ’ko magdadala ng sleepwear.

After that, I get my Christian Dior tote bag, I walked downstairs because Louis and Primo are waiting me outside. I saw Manang Ine and Ate Sarah watching teleserye in couch and I told them na may a-attendan akong party. They both nodded so I went out.

Paglapit ko sa kotse ni Primo ay nakasakay si Louis sa front seat. She smiled at me. “Gusto mo palit tayo? Dito kana, diyan na lang ako sa back seat.” she asked. I shooked my head while smiling.

“No, it’s okay.” I said and sat in the back seat. Nagkwentuhan lang kami about sa tats nilang dalawa since pareho silang tatlo na ’yung mga tattoo. They want to add pa nga daw since may nakita silang magandang design.

“Ikaw, sizt, wala ka ng balak dagdagan ’yang tats mo?” Louis asked. She looked at me since sa likod ako nakaupo.

“Of course, I want to add my tats. But hindi ko pa alam kung kelan. Maybe, if I saw a perfect design on Pinterest that suits my character then papalagay ko siya.” I said. She nodded and shrugged. We continue talking until we arrived in venue.

This resort is one of the famous resort here in Bulacan. May sarili silang hotel kaya its a little bit pricey. Naglakad kami papasok and I saw the birthday girl dancing in front of a guy. I think we’re late because some of the guests looked wasted.

We walked where Sue is and her eyes got bigger after seeing us. We smiled to her and greeted her a happy birthday.

“Omygosh, thank you! I thought hindi na kayo pupunta since anong oras na. Kumain muna kayo.” she said after we gave her our gifts. She guided us papuntang cater hanggang sa makaupo kami. While we were eating, nakipag-kwentuhan muna sa’min si Sue bago siya nagpaalam na may pupuntahan lang.

I faced Primo because he had been quiet since earlier. “You seems problematic. What’s bothering you?” I asked.

“Wala.” he said and shooked his head. I didn’t put any pressure on him since I knew him from the start. If he wants to tell me about his issue, he will.

I continue eating my food. But bigla kaming napatingin ni Louis sa mga lalaking nagtatawanan. Then I saw Zeyn in the middle, there’s a girl beside him and if I’m not mistaken, this is not the girl in the pool stadium. But the girl also has fair skin and big boobs.

While I’m watching them, Zeyn looked at me and our eyes met. Kinabahan ako sa titig na binibigay niya sa ’kin. His brows furrowed after looking in my outfit. Before they walked towards to their seats, I saw his jaw clenched.

“Boogsh lagot! Sizt, hindi mo kaya ’yung pa-boging ni Ate mong girl. Luwa kung luwa. Emzs!” Louis said laughing. I don’t mind her but my gazed went to Zeyn’s girl.

They look happy teasing each other. Pinagmasdan kong mabuti ’yung babae and Louis is right, luwang luwa nga ’yung boobs niya since malaki nga. I also noticed that she intentionally rubbed her boobs on Zeyn’s arm. Bitch!

“Sizt, samahan mo ’kong magpalit ng damit sa banyo. Maligo na din tayo, huh!” Louis said and we both stood up. We told Primo to wait us here and he just nodded.

While we were walking towards to comfort room. I faced Louis and asked.

“I didn’t know that Sue and Zeyn are close.”

“Uh, ang alam ko ’yung babaeng kasama ni Zeyn ang close ni Sue, baka sinama lang. Hindi ko din alam, eh. Bakit?” she said. I shooked my head and smiled.

“Nothing.” I said.

Pumasok kami sa loob ng CR and mabilis siyang nagpalit ng damit. She’s now wearing a white see through with two-piece beneath. The original hubadera. I smiled.

“Ikaw ’di ka magpapalit?” she asked me and I shooked my head. I think okay naman panligo ’tong suot ko. “Kelan kaya sila lalaki? Gusto ko na tuloy magpa-BA. Ikaw ba, sizt, may balak ka?” she asked me while holding her boobs. I sighed.

“I don’t know, maybe in the future. But now, all I want is to undergo SRS. I want to get rid of it!” I said pointing my private part. She nodded.

We went to our table and Primo is still there. Inaya namin siyang maligo na and hinubad niya lang ’yung suot niyang shirt. He also doesn’t have abs but his body is perfectly fit on him. I smiled.

Habang naglalakad kami papuntang pool side ay nakita ko ang mapanuring tingin ni Zeyn. I don’t mind him and I continue walking with Louis and Primo. Sabay-sabay kaming tumalon sa pool at nagsigawan.

“Shuta ang lamig!” Louis said. I laughed because of her looks. I faced Primo and he’s swimming towards my spot.

Nag-aya silang maglaro sa pool ng mataya-taya. Hindi ko alam ’yung laro but I just nodded to them since I don’t want to be KJ. Si Louis ang taya, hinabol niya si Primo since malapit sa kanya. I just laughed while watching them.

Nataya si Primo so he looked at me and smirked. I swam para hindi niya mataya but may natunggo akong matigas na bagay. I faced him and I was taken aback by the man who was standing in front of me.

“Rex?!” I asked frowning.

“Hi, Reese.” he said smirking. He encircled his arm on my waist kaya napadikit ako sa katawan niyang naka-hubad. I felt the heat of his body. I swallowed hard before turning my gazed to his face. He looked drunk.

“Uh, I didn’t know that you also invi -” hindi ko natapos ’yung sasabihin because he suddenly grabbed my nape and kissed me. Hindi ako gumanti sa halik kaya tumigil siya. I gave him a deadly look before raising my left brows.

“Sorry.” he said then lowered his gazed. I turned away then I saw Primo swimming towards my spot. He looked at Rex first before looking at me.

“Binastos ka ba ng gagong ’to?” he asked frowning. And when I’m about to answer his question, I saw Zeyn with his girl. Nakapalupot ’yung braso niya sa bewang ’nong babae.

He looked at Rex before giving me a deadly look. Then they sat near us, I think this is my chance to make bawi. I smirked.

“No, don’t worry. Dito muna ko kay Rex.” I said to Primo and gave him a smile. He slowly nodded and swam where Louis is.

I looked Rex and he still not looking at me. I went to him and held his chin. Napatingin siya sa’kin and I immediately kissed him. I know he was shocked because of what I did. But after a couple of seconds, gumanti siya sa halik ko. While we were kissing, binuhat niya ’ko at inangkla ko naman ang mga binti ko sa bewang niya habang ang mga daliri ko ay naglilikot sa buhok niya.

Ilang minuto tumagal ang halikan namin and hinabol namin ang hininga matapos kaming maghalikan. Tiningnan namin ang isa’t isa bago nag ngitian.

“Can I fúck you?” he said begging.

“Later.” I said smiling. Tinanggal ko ang pag-angkla ko sa bewang niya at tumingin sa gilid ko. Then I saw Zeyn holding a wine glass, while glancing to it, his face was dark and his jaw was clenched. I looked away because my body trembled. Shit!

“Mag c-cr lang ako.” Zeyn said. I heard that because of his baritone voice. I sighed before looking to his direction. Then I saw him walking where the comfort room is.

“Uhm, pupunta lang akong wash room. I’ll be back.” I said to Rex. He nodded while smiling from ear to ear.

I walked towards to the comfort room. Since lalaki si Zeyn ay sa panlalaki ako pumasok. After I went inside, I saw him fixing his shorts. Again, I saw his boxer brief and some of his pubic hair. Shit! I bit my lower lip before I open my mouth.

“Oh, sorry!” I said kaya napatingin siya sa gawi ko. I looked in his eyes but I can’t see any emotion. “Rex told me kasi na dito kami mag-sex sa CR ng lalaki, I didn’t know you’re here.”

He did not response and walked to the sinks while clenching his jaw. He washed his hands and fix his hair using the water from sink. I swallowed hard because while he was doing that, it’s screamed manliness. And iba ang dating ng tattoo niya sa braso. Shit!

“Hindi ko naman tinatanong kung mags-sex kayo ng lalaki mo. ’Tsaka mukha ba ’kong may pake?!” he said frowning. I was shocked because I thought hindi siya magsasalita. He’s now giving me an arrogant look. Shit! Make bawi, Reese!

“Are you jealous or insecure? Well, we can have séx first, I think matatagalan pa naman si Rex sa pagsunod sa’kin dito.” I said smirking. He chuckled before walking in my direction. Nang makalapit siya ay kinulong niya ’ko sa mga bisig niya, then he smirked.

“Tsk! Bakit naman ako maiinggit sa lalaking ’yon. Kapag ako ang kumántót dyan sa butas mo, paniguradong tanggal ’yang kati mo.” he said arrogantly. I was shocked ’cause I thought nakaganti na ’ko pero hindi pa pala. Bullshit!

He smirked before leaving me here alone. I know he sounds rude and I know that I should be mad at him because of what he said. But iba ang sinasabi ng katawan ko, I felt excitement. What the fúck, Reese!!!

Chapter 05

“This week na ’yung Halloween Fair. Gawaan na naman ng props. Kaasar!” Louis ranted. We were in our room getting ready to leave because we were going home. I rolled my eyes to her.

“Well, do we have a choice?” I asked while raising my left brows. She just sighed, so I continue fixing my things.

“Ang alam ko uunahin daw i-distribute ’yung mga t-shirt nating senior kesa sa mga junior. ’Yung damit natin sa Halloween Fair, ipatahi kaya natin ng pa-crop top?” she said smiling. Tiningnan ko siya ng seryoso bago ngumisi. She’s really expert when it comes in things like this. I chuckled.

“Good idea.” I said nodding. She chuckled. Bitch!

We went out of the room and walked where Sue is, she’s with Elise and Mike. Pinipilit niya nga kaming dito na lang matulog since anong oras na din, but I shooked my head since walang kasama si Rei sa bahay. She has an asthma so we can’t leave her alone.

While Louis and I walking towards to Sue, I saw Zeyn smirking at me. I turn away because I felt my face heated. I remember what he said earlier in comfort room. Shit!

“Ingat kayo.” Sue said after we bid our goodbye to her. Naglakad kaming tatlo nina Primo papuntang parking lot. I saw Zeyn again, still smirking at me. Hindi ko na siya pinansin pa at naglakad na lang hanggang sa marating namin ang parking lot.

When I eventually sat on the passenger seat, I sighed. After what happened between me and Zeyn in the comfort room, hindi na ’ko bumalik sa pool and I went straight sa room namin ni Louis. Hindi ko na din nakita pa si Rex but he texted me asking where I am. I did not answer him since my body is shaking because of what Zeyn told me. The audacity of that guy. Fuck!

“Thank you, take care both of you. Bye!” I said after kissing both cheeks of Primo and Louis. They waved their hands before leaving. I checked Rei if she’s okay. And after checking her, I went to my room and slept.

Three days have passed. Today is Wednesday, and we are all busy doing the props. Napatahi na din namin nina Louis and Claire ’yung damit namin na susuotin sa Friday and mamaya namin siya kukunin. I was assigned to paint the props together with Primo.

“Stop it, Primo!” I shouted because he put paint on my face. He laughed out loud after staring at me. Jerk!

“Minimize your voice. Hindi niyo kailangan mag-sigawan sa paggawa ng props.” Mr. Rodrigo said rolling his eyes to me and Primo. Nag-sorry kami pareho matapos niya kaming sawayin. But I pinched Primo’s waists to make bawi. He shouted ‘aww’ without any noise, I chuckled. Dasurv!

We continue painting the props but hindi nagpatinag si Primo sa pang-aasar sa ’kin kaya ilang beses kaming napagalitan ni Mr. Rodrigo. Of course, hindi ako nagpatalo at pinapahidan ko din siya ng paint. Sinaway na din kami nina Louise and Claire but we don’t care. This asshole kasi!

“Dre! Nalagyan na tuloy ’yung uniform ko. You are so annoying kasi!” I said frowning. But the jerk stuck out his tongue and laughed. Bwisit!

Lumayo siya ng konti sa ’kin dahil naglakad ako palapit sa kanya. And when I’m about to put the paint to his face, someone knocked on our door. So, we all faced the guest.

“Good morning, Sir Rodrigo.” Troy said smiling. My eyes went to the guy beside him. It’s Zeyn, and he’s looking at me intently. His focus was in my uniform which has a paint because of Primo. He clenched his jaw before looking at the man beside me. Shit!

“Pasok kayo, hijo.” Mr. Rodrigo said smiling. This is my first time seeing him smiling at someone. He always serious kasi especially when he was discussing. Napatingin naman ako bigla kina Zeyn na parehong naglalakad papalapit kay Mr. Rodrigo.

They discussing something but I don’t heard them since medyo malayo ang pwesto ko sa kanila. But I closed my eyes when Primo put another paint on my face. He’s so annoying!

“Primo!” I yelled but he just laughed again. Bigla naman akong natahimik ng biglang tumahimik ’yung mga kaklase ko and they all looking at me. Napalakas ba ’yung sigaw ko? Shit!

I faced Mr. Rodrigo and he’s raising his brows at me. I lowered my gazed because of the embarrassment. Fuck you, Primo!

“I’m sorry, sir.” I said while biting my lower lip. He just rolled his eyes at me and looked again to the two men in front of him. I looked at Zeyn and his jaw was clenching while looking at the paper that Mr. Rodrigo’s holding. What his problem?!

I faced Primo after glancing at Zeyn and he’s still laughing. I rolled my eyes at him and continue painting the props. After I finished painting the one props, I glanced Zeyn and Troy. Nagpapaalam na yata silang aalis na.

“The best ka talaga, sir.” Troy said and laughed. Tumawa lang din naman si Mr. Rodrigo sa kanya bago hinaplos ang braso niya. Flirt!

Zeyn looked at me seriously before sila naglakad ni Troy palabas ng room namin. “Tol, kaya pala hindi tayo matapos-tapos sa pag pintura kasi wala tayong partner.”

I heard that because his voice was loud. Nagtawanan sila ni Troy habang naka-akbay siya sa balikat nito. Tumingin muna ulit siya sa ’kin ng seryoso bago sila nawala sa paningin ko ng tuluyan. My body shivered because of his look. Geez!

Hapon na kami natapos sa paggawa ng props and sinamahan kami ni Primo kuhanin ’yung damit namin sa tahian. He even insist to take me home and I just nodded. We’re bestfriend right?

“Thank you.” I said after kong bumaba sa motor niya. He just nodded and left. After that, I walked towards inside of our house.

While I’m walking inside, my brows furrowed because all the lights was turn on. Mabilis akong naglakad papasok and I saw my Mom holding a bowl while laughing with Rei. She went home na pala. They didn’t noticed that I was here since medyo malayo ’yung main door namin sa dinning table.

“Hi.” I said and fake a cough. They both faced me and my Mom walked towards my spot. She’s smiling from ear to ear and hugged me. I hugged her back and I saw Rei smiling at me. I gave her my geniune smile.

“I missed you, ’nak. Let’s eat dinner. Rei told me kasi na busy nga daw kayo sa school since gawaan ngayon ng props. I know you’re hungry, so let’s eat na.” she said smiling.

“Yeah, but let me change my clothes first.” I said and she just nodded. I went upstairs and walk inside my room. Mabilis lang akong naglinis ng katawan and wore my pajamas.

“So, how’s school?” Mom asked. We are now eating here in our dinning table together with Manang Ine and Ate Sarah.

“It’s fine, everything was good.” Rei answered. Mom just nodded and faced me. I put down my spoon and fork then wipe my mouth using the tissue.

I faced her and smiled. “It’s also fine. Nothing new.” I answered and she just nodded again. Natahimik naman kaming lahat after ’non and we all continue eating our food. But after a couple of minutes, Mom’s break it.

“Oh, I remember, I saw your Kuya Kierr last night in Tagaytay. Nagpapasaway na naman siguro sa Mom and Dad niya. But, he was handsome last night, huh. Grabe talaga ang lahi ng Daddy niyo.” she said and shooked her head. I don’t mind her but Manang Ine talked to her.

Kuya Kierr is our cousin. He is Daddy’s nephew, kapatid ni Daddy ’yung Daddy niya so he also a Fontanilla. We are so close since birth dahil only child lang siya, but matanda siya sa ’kin ng dalawang taon. Mas malapit siya sa ’min ni Rei dahil hindi daw niya makasundo ’yung mga cousin niya sa side ng Mommy niya.

They continue talking until we finished eating the dinner. Mom told us na iiwanan daw niya si Mang Andoy sa ’min since wala kaming kasamang lalaki sa bahay. Mang Andoy is our family driver and he always came with my Mom everytime na may taping siya.

I took a bath and after doing my skin care and drying my hair using the blower, I slept. Tomorrow morning my Mom was gone but she left a note saying that she has an urgent meeting with the management. I just shrugged and sighed.

Halloween Fair came and I am here in my walk-in closet wearing the crop top na pinatahi namin. I did not wear any jewelries kasi baka magkahilahan mamaya masira lang sila.

After fixing myself, I went downstairs and I saw Rei wearing the same shirt I’m wearing. She smiled at me and we both walked towards to our parking lot.

Tahimik lang kami ni Rei sa likod and sinabi lang niya sa ’kin na ’don matutulog sa bahay mamaya ’yung bestfriend niyang si Tricia. When we arrived in school, I told Manong Andoy to wait for Rei ’cause I’m not sure if sasabay ako sa kanila pauwi. He just nodded so Rei and I walked towards the school gate.

“Don’t force yourself too much, huh. Did you bring your inhaler?” I asked Rei while we were walking. She nodded and show me her inhaler.

“Yeah, I brought it. Don’t worry about me. I can handle myself.” she said and hugged me. Sweet talaga kami sa isa’t isa kasi kami na nga lang ang magkaramay sa lahat ng bagay, mag-aaway pa kami. I sighed.

After naming maghiwalay ni Rei, I went to Claire and Louis that standing near the school gate. The boys are also there.

“Sis!” I yelled ng malapit na ’ko sa gawi nila. They both faced me and smiled. I kissed their cheeks ng makalapit ako ng tuluyan.

“Ang tagal mo!” Claire said. I don’t mind her and I faced the boys and also kissed their cheeks. We talked ramdom things and we decided to eat in McDo after here.

I roamed my eyes and not to suprise, I saw Zeyn looking at my tummy. Kita talaga ang konting tiyan ko since I’m wearing crop top. I turn my gazed to Louis after seeing him clenching his jaw. The hell.

“Hi, Ate Reese. Pwedeng magpa-picture?” the femme gay said. He’s with her friend. I smiled and nodded at him.

“Yeah, sure.” I said nodding. After he took seven photos. He faced me and smiled.

“Thank you po. Ang bait niyo po sobra.” maiyak-iyak niyang sabi. Omygosh! Why he’s crying?!

“Bakla, wag kang OA!” his friend said. The girl slightly smiled at me and held her friend. “Pasensya na po kayo dito sa kaibigan ko. Nadala lang po siya ng emosyon.” she said and laughed. I just smiled at them because they are so cute.

“Sorry po, Ate Reese. Ang tagal ko na po kasi kayong pina-follow sa Tiktok. Ang ganda niyo po sa personal, sobra. Kainis na po kayo. Char!” he said. He’s laughing now and nagpaalam na aalis na. I smiled and nodded.

“Nakakahiya ka talaga, Sam! Ikukwento ko ’to mamaya kay Gab, ang tagal naman kasing dumating ng gaga.” rinig kong sabi ng babae. My mouthed form an ‘o’ because they are Gabbi’s friends pala.

Maya-maya pa daw bubuksan ’yung gate since marami pang hinihintay. I get my pod vape and smoked. Ganon din naman sina Claire and Louis but the boys used cigarettes instead. Lumayo kami sa gate ng school para hindi mapagalitan.

While we are laughing because of Louis, I saw Zeyn smoking beside Troy and Arthur. He’s looking at me intently. Nakikipagtitigan pa ’ko sa kanya pero hindi ako nakatagal dahil nakakatunaw siyang tumingin. Shit!

We heard shouting sign that the gate was open. We went there and I am right dahil bukas na nga ’yung gate. Pinauna namin ’yung iba para hindi masikip. Tumabi sa ’kin si Primo and he encircled his arm on my waist.

Maganda at talagang nakakatakot ’yung set-up ng school. Nakakakapit lang ako kay Primo dahil natatakot talaga ’ko. At first, we didn’t encountered ghosts but when we were in the middle, we screamed because of fear. Pinagtawanan pa kami ng mga boys kasi ang OA daw namin. Gosh! It’s so scary naman kaya talaga.

Nang malagpasan namin ’yung mga ghosts sa middle, I heard the stroke sound of chainsaw. My heartbeat fast ’cause I remember the movie Chainsaw Massacre. I closed my eyes and covered my mouth using my both hands.

“Ouch!” I said. Natunggo kasi ako ng kung sino. I faced them and I saw a couple of girls and guys. Tumingin ako sa harapan ’ko and my eyes got bigger because my friends was not there. Fuck!

Sasabay sana ’ko sa mga magbabarkadang nauuna sa ’kin but I heard the sounds of chainsaw again. My feet can’t move. Shit!

Again, I heard the sounds of chainsaw and palakas siya ng palakas. My body’s trembled and I can’t move because of fear. Maiihi yata ako dahil sa kaba. Fudge!

“Omygosh!” I screamed because someone held my waist. I faced him and I want to cry after I saw who’s the man in front of me. It’s Zeyn.

I hugged him and tumulo ’yung luha ko sa dibdib niya. He’s tall kasi, eh. Inalis niya ’yung pagkakayakap ko sa kanya and he cupped my face.

“Bakit ka umiiyak?” malambing niyang sabi. Mapungay din ang mga mata niyang parang kay Daniel Padilla. I sobbed and wiped my tears.

“I got lost. Hindi naman ako makalakad mag-isa kasi natatakot ako sa chainsaw. I remember the Chainsaw Massacre, eh.” I said still sobbing. But he just chuckled. Gosh! What’s funny?!

“Ah, ’yon lang pala. Sige iwan na kita, huh.” he said smirking. Nanlaki naman ang mata ko dahil sa sinabi niya. No! He can’t leave me here alone. Mamamatay ako sa takot even though I know that they are not real monster. Shit!

“Omygosh, no!” I pleaded. I held his arm and did puppy eyes. “Please! Maaawa ka naman sa ’kin. Pwede mo ba ’kong isama sa’yo?”

“Pwede.” he said. Natuwa naman ako ng sobra dahil sa sinabi niya. “Gusto mo i-uwi pa kita sa ’min, eh.”

“Huh?!”

“Wala, ang sabi ko, pwede kang yumakap at humawak sa ’kin kung natatakot ka kasi dadaanan na natin ’yung chainsaw.” he said. I bit my lower lip because I remember that I hugged him earlier. Shit! “Wag ka ng mahiya, inaya mo nga akong mag-sex, eh. Tsk!”

Sobra ang naramdaman kong hiya dahil sa sinabi niya. I bit my lower lip again, I looked at him and he’s looking at my lips. Nang mapansin niyang nakatingin ako ay nag-iwas siya ng tingin. Because he averted his gaze, I hugged him and hid my face on his chest. I heard his heartbeat. And it was fast. Shit!

Habang nakasubsob ang mukha ko sa dibdib niya. Narinig ko ang tunog ng chainsaw kaya mas hinigpitan ko ang yakap ko sa kanya at naramdaman ko naman ang paghagod niya sa likod ng ulo ko. I sighed after we surpass the chainsaw. I looked at him and he’s smiling at me. I don’t mind him and we continue walking.

’Yung mga sumunod na na-encounter namin ay hindi naman masyadong nakakatakot kaya nakahawak na lang ako sa braso niya habang nauuna siyang maglakad.

“Haahh!” gulat ng isa kaya napakapit ako sa collar ni Zeyn at pinagharang siya sa naglalakad na monster. Nagulat kasi ako. Shems!

The monster walked away from us so I sighed and bit my lower lip. After looking at the monster, I faced Zeyn and he’s looking at my lips intently. Napalunok ako ng laway dahil sa pwesto namin. Nakakulong na naman pala ’ko sa mga braso niyang nakadikit sa pader, kahit na payat ay may laman siya at nagsisilabasan ang mga ugat niya sa braso. I’m still holding his collar pala so I put it down.

“Sorry, did I hurt you?” I asked but he immediately shooked his head while not taking my eyes on me. I swallowed hard because of his look.

“Hindi, pero pwedeng bang tigilan mo ang kaka-kagat sa labi mo dahil kanina pa kita gustong halikan. Hindi ko lang magawa kasi wala tayo sa tamang lugar. Isa pa, ayokong pag-usapan ka nila dahil mainit ang pangalan mo sa building namin lalo na sa mga lalaki.” he said while clenching his jaw. And while saying those words ay hindi niya tinatanggal ang tingin sa akin.

“Then why don’t you kiss me?” hamon ko. He just tsked and smirked. Nilapit niya ’yung labi niya sa labi ko bago lumayo ulit. Hindi ko alam kung bakit hinabol ko ang paglayo niya. Tsk! He’s teasing me.

“Sa susunod na kapag nasa tamang lugar tayo at walang tao.” he said. Tinaas baba niya din ang kilay niya saka tumawa ng malakas. Natuyo yata ang lalamunan ko. “Tara na.”

I was shocked not because he held my hands, but because after more than two years, I felt butterflies in my stomach again. And because of what I felt, I know that I’m dead. Shit!

Chapter 06

“Thank you.” I said to Zeyn. We’re on our way to my friends. He just smiled and nodded. Malayo pa lang ay kita ko na ang mga nag-aalalang mukha ng mga friends ko. I sighed heavily.

“You okay? Saan kaba kasi nagpunta at nahiwalay ka sa ’min?!” Primo asked frowning. He looked at the man beside me and his brows furrowed. Tiningnan ko naman si Zeyn pero walang emosyon siyang nakatingin kay Primo. My body shivered.

“Uh… I’m okay, Primo.” I said and his gaze went mine. He just nodded and encircled his arm on my waist. I looked at Zeyn and he’s now clenching his jaw. Why he always do that?!

“Shutacca! ’Kala namin kung saan ka nagpunta.” Louis said. Naglalakad silang apat sa gawi ko at napatingin sila kay Zeyn. The two girls smiled at him and the boys just nodded.

“You all left me there kaya!” I said rolling my eyes. Louis and Claire both laughed. Si Edward ay kausap ni Zeyn at sina Primo and Yohan ay nakatitig lang sa kanya.

Because Louis and Claire force me to tell them what happened, I told them. Tumango-tango lang naman sila and tatawa kung meron man nakakatawa. After I told them what really happened, I looked at Zeyn and he’s smiling at me.

“Alis na ’ko. Ingat ka pauwi.” he said before ngumiti kina Louis and Claire. Tinapik naman niya sa balikat si Edward bilang paalam. But he just nodded to Primo and Yohan. He looked at me for one last time and smiled. Gosh!

“Halika na, kumain na tayo. Tom jones na akis.” Louis said so we all walked towards to the parking lot. Van nina Yohan ang gamit but si Primo ang nagd-drive. Tahimik lang ako and sasagot lang kapag kinausap nila. I remember all the gesture of Zeyn and I could say that he’s pa-fall. I sighed heavily.

After we arrived in McDo, we walked inside and naupo kami sa may sulok. Although wala ng masyadong tao since what time na din. Louis and Edward volunteered to order our food. While we were waiting for them, Yohan and Primo are talking about basketball and Claire just browsing on her phone. Tahimik lang naman akong nakatingin sa labas, na puro mabibilis na sasakyan ang makikita mo dahil walang traffic.

“Hoy! Boracay tayo this sem break?” Louis asked while chewing her food. I looked all my friends and tumingin lang sila sa ’kin na parang nagtatanong din.

We have two week break kasi since all Soul’s day is coming. We always do out of town every end of semester as a treat to ourselves, hindi pa namin kasi kaya ang out of the country since it’s too expensive.

“I’m in. I’ll bring Rei na lang din siguro if she’s not busy.” I said. They all nodded and told na in din. Yohan also planning to bring Jin, his cousin. We all continue eating while laughing because of Edward and Louis. I bet na magkatuluyan sila. Joke!

While I’m eating sundae. My gaze went to the door when I heard someone talking, then I saw Zeyn with Troy and Arthur. It’s seems that they teasing Arthur since the latter looks annoyed. I stared at Zeyn for a second and I found out that he’s cute when he’s smiling. Gosh! Stop it self.

Napatingin siya sa gawi ko at naabutan niyang nakatingin ako sa kanya. I can’t read his eyes since he staring at me without any emotion. Kinalabit siya ni Troy kaya napatingin siya dito. Tumingin ulit siya sa ’kin bago inayos ’yung buhok. Nagpapa-gwapo ba siya sa paningin ko?

I sighed heavily before eating my sundae again. My friends are still talking about something and I think that they didn’t recognize Zeyn and his friends. I can’t count kung ga’no kami ka-dami nagkatinginan ni Zeyn. I don’t know why I felt shiver down my spine everytime he stare at me.

After naming kumain ay naglakad kami papuntang parking lot. Nang makasakay ay nag-uusap pa rin si Louis and Claire sa mga kalandian.

I’m recording the high-way since it looks aesthetic, but I immediately look at Louis and Claire when they both pinched my arm. The heck!

“Why?!” I asked frowning.

“Bakla, kalmahan mo lang naman! Tinatanong ka kasi namin kung go-gow ka ba sa pa-gig ni Mayor bago mag Christmas pero tulaley ka diyan!” Louis said rolling her eyes. I also rolled my eyes at her before sighing. This bitch!

“What band ang magp-perform?” I asked.

“Hindi ko pa alam. Malayo pa naman kaya sabihan na lang kita. ’Tsaka mura lang naman ’yung VIP ticket since pa-gig kineme nga ’yon ni Yorme.” she said. I looked at Claire and she’s busy typing on her phone.

“Okay, just tell me if what band ang magp-perform, but kapag hindi ko bet ’yung banda, I won’t go, huh.” I said pouting my lips. She just rolled her and sighed.

“Arte! Sige, basta i-messages na lang kita kapag alam ko na kung anong band and magkano ’yung VIP tickets. Papa-reserve na kasi tayo kay Harry baka kasi magkaubusan.”

“Oh, so you still flirting with him.” I said arching my left brows. Hinampas naman ako ng gaga sa braso bago umirap.

“Oo naman ’kala mo sa ’kin malande?! Che!” she said and rolled her eyes. I just laughed because of her face. She think na cute siya everytime na nagtatampu-tampuhan siya. She look insane kaya.

Today is Saturday and I took a bath early not because I had errands, but because I will do some Tiktok videos and do photoshoot. I just wore a cute loungewear and put light make-up.

Naka-ilang take ako bago natapos sa pag-shoot ng Tiktok videos. I changed my clothes to do some photoshoot na i-upload ko naman sa Instagram. Then after a couple of takes, I’m done.

After ilang minutes na naka-upload ang videos and photos ko, I received a lot of likes and comments. Some are goods and some are bads. But I just don’t mind the basher and lie down on my bed.

Saktong paghiga ko ay lumabas ang pangalan ni Zeyn sa notifications ko. My heartbeat fast and I immediately pressed his username. Ni-like niya ’yung videos ko sa Tiktok, lumabas siguro sa fyp niya. I saw his account and he’s not following anyone and his account says that ‘this user has not published any videos.’

He’s using Tiktok lang siguro for watching some videos. I just shrugged, but he has 11k followers. Ang gwapo niya kasi sa profile niya. Oh, I remember sinabi ko nga pala na he’s not handsome but now… ugh! Nevermind.

My forehead creased when someone replied on my Instagram story. I pressed the account and found that it was Ash.

eagutierrez:

beautiful.

eagutierrez:

btw, how are you.

ris:

i’m fine, how ’bout u?

I replied. He is Eltom Ash Gutierrez, a grade 12 student taking STEM in EU. He’s my fling last month but when I found out that he’s Sue’s ex, I ghosted him. Nice naman siya and the tea is, he’s daks. I chuckled when I remember what Louis told me. That girl talaga.

Since I’m bored, nakipag-usap ako sa kanya. Okay naman siyang kausap kaya nag-enjoy naman ako. We talked until mid-night, he called pa kasi. He mentioned me pa on his IG story, the reason why Claire and Louis teased me. Bitches!

All Soul’s day came and I’m now wearing white racer back tank top and denim short shorts. I also wore my jewelries and my oran sandals. Pagbaba ko ng sala ay nandon na sina Manang Ine, Ate Sarah, and Rei. Well, nasa garage na siguro si Mang Andoy.

We brought the cookies that we made yesterday. Tahimik lang naman akong nakaupo sa back seat while listening music on Spotify.

Mabilis lang naman kami nakarating sa puntod nina Mamita and Daddy-Lo, parents ni Daddy. ’Yung parents kasi ni Mommy ay sa Manila nakalibing since Manila Girl talaga ang Mommy. Tumira lang naman siya dito sa Bulacan when she married Dad.

Nagsindi kami ng kandila ng makapasok sa museleo nina Mamita. Halos parang bahay ’yung puntod nina Mamita since meron kaming sariling bathroom and second floor. Malamig din dito dahil naka-tiles.

“Ate, I’ll come with you sa Boracay, huh.” Rei said after we prayed. I nodded at her and smiled. I roamed my eyes in the whole place and it was really beautiful and relaxing.

“Labas lang ako sandali.” paalam ko dahil nangasim bigla ’yung dila ko. Nakasabit naman ’yung pod vape ko sa leeg.

Lumabas ako para mag-vape baka kasi multihin ako nina Mamita kapag sa loob ako nag-smoke. While I’m smoking, I noticed a man who’s wearing sweatshirt and taslan shorts.

It’s was Zeyn. I don’t why I walked to his direction and namalayan ko na lang na malapit na ’ko sa gawi niya. He’s talking to someone over the phone and he seems problematic since his brows are furrowed.

“Bobo ka ba?! Pa’no ko sisindihan ’yung kandila, eh, wala nga akong dalang lighter. Basta bilisan mo dyan at sumunod ka dito!” he said bago binaba ang cellphone. His gaze went mine and he looked shocked after seeing me.

“I think you need this.” I said showing him my lighter. I brought this kasi everytime kahit vape na ’yung gamit ko. For emergency purposes lang. Like this one.

Tinanggap niya ’yung lighter bago nagkamot ng kilay. “Uh, salamat.” he said shyly.

Napatingin naman ako sa puntod nila and kagaya sa ’min ay maganda din iyon. After that, I looked at him and he also looking to their tomb pala. I swallowed hard after staring at him for a seconds. Bakit bigla siyang gumawapo sa paningin ko?! Shit.

“Uh, pasok ka.” he said. Since I’m curious kung sino ’yung nakalibing ay tumango ako bago kami sabay na naglakad papasok sa museleo nila.

Binasa ko ’yung pangalan ng nasa lapida. ‘Maria Jimenez Mercado’, kelan lang din siya namatay based sa nakalagay sa lapida niya. I faced Zeyn and he’s also looking to their gravestone. He faced me and smiled.

“Mama ko ’yan.” he said smiling. Even though he’s smiling, I know that he’s not geniunely happy because his eyes can’t lie. Sinindihan niya ’yung kandila saka nilagay sa tapat ng lapida.

“Anong kinamatay ng Mommy mo?” I asked. He faced me after makatayo sa pagkakaupo dahil nasa ibaba ’yung puntod ng Mommy niya.

“Inatake sa puso. Okay pa naman siya ’nong umaga pero biglang inatake ’nong tanghali, dahil siguro sa init. Sabi naman ’nong iba traydor daw talaga ang atake.” he said seriously.

“Your Mom is pretty, huh.” I said smiling. Napatitig kasi ako sa picture ng Mommy niya and napansin ko ’yung ganda niya. Baby face.

“Syempre kaya nga gwapo kaming magkakapatid, eh.” he joked. I looked at him with disapproval but he just chuckled. Pinagmasdan ko naman siya habang tumatawa. Manly talaga siya. I bit my lower lip when he stopped laughing and stared at me seriously. Shit!

“What?!” I asked raising my brows. He shooked his head before akong inaya na maupo sa lapag. Inalok din niya ’ko ng biscuit and I accept it since I love Presto.

Nag-kwento siya tungkol sa pamilya niya. Nakinig lang ako habang tumatawa siya minsan. His Dad and older brother are a soldier, then his younger brother naman planning din na mag-soldier. Him is taking criminology so he’s planning to be a police man.

Hindi ko maiwasan matulala sa mukha niya dahil hindi ko alam kung bakit naging gwapo siya bigla sa paningin ko. I’m definitely sure that he’s not my type because he’s appearance was too strong. I sighed heavily.

“’Ma, ganda ng bisita mo, ’no?!” sabi niya na tumingin sa ’kin bago tumawa ng malakas, I smiled at him before averting my gaze. I felt my faced heated because of what the asshole said. “Anak ’to ’nong dating sexy star na si Rica Alajar.”

My smile fade out after what he said. I’m not offended because it’s not the first time I’ve heard that. Tumingin siya sa ’kin at na-realize din siguro ang sinabi niya. I force a smile because he look tensed.

“Sorry, na-offend ba kita? Hindi ko naman gustong sabihin talaga ’yon. Hey, I’m sorry.” he said and held my hands. His left hand cupped my face. “I’m sorry.”

I sighed heavily. “No, it’s okay. Hindi naman ikaw ang kauna-unahang nagsabi ’non. And what’s wrong sa sinabi mo, you’re right naman, eh. My Mom was not just a former actress, but she also a former sexy star.”

“Sorry ulit.” he said. Mababakasan mo sa boses niya ang lungkot kaya binigyan ko siya ng isang ngiti.

Natahimik na kami after that. I felt the awkwardness all of a sudden but thank god because we both heard the shout of a ice cream vendor. He faced me and smiled.

“Nakakain ka na ba ng dirty ice cream?” he asked and I nodded. Nakita ko naman na nagulat siya bago ngumiti.

“But once lang.” I said shyly.

“Edi gawin nating twice. Tara.” he said smiling. He held my hands saka kami lumabas ng museleo nila. Tinawag niya si Manong na nagtitinda ng dirty ice cream.

“Ilan, boss?” the ice cream vendor asked. Meron din palang nagtitinda ng ice cream vendor na naglalakad, ’yung bang hindi nakasakay sa motorcycle or bicycle. Ngayon ko lang kasi nalaman, eh.

“Dalawa, boss.” Zeyn said.

Kinuha ni Manong ’yung dalawang ice cream and inabot sa ’min, nanlaki pa ang mata niya ng makita ako at nahinto sa pagbibigay ng dirty ice cream. My forehead creased. What his problem?!

“Boss?” Zeyn said.

“Uh, pasensya na, boss.” the ice cream vendor said and faced me. “Kayo po ba ’yung nasa Tiktok na anak ni Ms. Rica Alajar?”

I nodded and smiled. “Yes, po.”

“Ay, ma’am! Kay ganda niyo ho sa personal naman pala talaga. Aba, ang kutis ay halatang pang mayaman!” he said and giggled. I just smiled because he’s too cute. “Pwede ho ba akong kumuha ng litrato kasama ho kayo?”

“Yes naman po.” I said smiling. May kinuha siya sa bulsa niya at isang iyong cellphone na dipindot. Meron naman camera sa likod, but makikita kaya kami ’don. “Uh, Manong, if you won’t mind. I have instax, mas maganda po kapag ito po ’yung ginamit natin.”

“Ay, ganon po ba. Sige po.”

Kinuha ko ’yung instax ko sa bag and gave it to Zeyn. He just smiled and nodded. After four shots, I saw how Manong happy in the photos. My heart melt, I miss my Dad so much.

Binigay ko kay Manong ’yung three photo paper and tinira ko sa ’kin ’yung isa. Nagpasalamat siya sa ’kin bago umalis. After that, Zeyn and I both went inside their museleo. He teased me pa nga that I’m fame daw. I just shrugged and smiled.

We sat on the floor while eating the dirty ice cream. I suddenly faced him when he fake a cough. My forehead creased.

“Uh, nanliligaw ba sa’yo si Eltom?” he asked and averted his gaze. My brows furrowed because of his question.

“To answer your question, it’s no. But how do you know him?” I asked frowning. Napangisi naman siya sa sagot ko.

“Pinsan kasi siya ni Troy, ’tsaka pina-follow namin sa Instagram ’yung isa’t isa kaya nakita ko ’yung IG story niya na nag-video call kayo.” he said so I nodded. That’s why.

Nag kwento pa siya ng kung ano-anong nakakatawang nangyari sa buhay niya then I suddenly noticed that he has dirt on the side of his lips. I wiped it using my thumb and I felt his body stunned. Pinahid ko sa tissue ’yung dumi bago siya hinarap ulit.

When I faced him, he’s looking at me with his puffy eyes. Nabitawan ko bigla ’yung kinakain kong dirty ice cream when he suddenly grabbed my nape and kissed me. Nabigla man ay ginantihan ko siya ng halik.

I slighty sat on his lap and encircled my both hands to his nape. Nilaro-laro ko ’yung buhok niya sa likod habang nagtatagisan pa rin kami ng halik. Iba ang halik niya ngayon, may diin at baon. Nalasahan ko bigla ang kinain niyang ice cream ng sipsipin niya ’yung buong dila ko.

Dahil nadadala ako sa nangyayari, ginalaw ko ’yung pang upo ko sa alaga niya at maya-maya lang ay naramdaman ko ang pagtigas nito.

“Ugh..” he moaned and inalayo ako sa kanya. He stared at me for a seconds but hindi ko na pinatagal dahil gusto ko pang halikan siya.

I kissed him and he kissed me back. Habang ginagalaw ko ’yung pang upo ko sa alaga niya ay sinasabayan naman niya ng pagbayo. Because of what we’re doing, I can’t help but to feel heat.

Tumagal ng ilang minuto ang halikan namin bago ako huminto at tinitigan siya. He also looking at me intently while I’m still sitting on his shaft. He cupped my face and looked at me carefully.

“Pwede bang tigilan mo ang pagiging maganda, kasi ginugulo mo talaga ’yung isip ko.” he said and tsked. Oh, so being beautiful now is a sin. Jerk!

Chapter 07

“Ugh…” I moaned when he bit my nipples. I’m still sitting on his lap while he’s rubbing my left boob. Nakahawak naman ang kanang kamay ko sa ulo niya at mas dinidiin sa kaliwang dede ko.

I don’t know how we ended up making out in front of his mom’s grave. My boobs is the most sensitive part of my body, so when he touched it earlier ay bigla na lang akong nakaramdam ng lust.

He squeezed my butt using his both manly hands while still sucking my left boob. Mariin akong napakagat sa ibabang labi ko when he rubbed my butt on his shaft. Shit, I don’t know where did the last time I had sex but I really want him inside me.

Umakyat ang halik niya sa leeg ko at nagtagal doon ng kaunti bago umakyat papunta sa labi ko. Our lips met again and nagpagalingan kami kung sino ang mas mahusay humalik.

His hands are now squeezing my boobs and I don’t know how to response properly because he makes me feel insane. My hands went to his shorts and I untied his string cord.

After what I did, I held his cock and mabilis akong napalunok dahil sobrang init non. I look at it and kung kanina ay napulunok lang ako, now I felt nervous. He’s really blessed, mahaba, mataba, malaki, maugat and masarap ang tinatago niyang little Zeyn. Oh shit.

I slowly move my hand up and down and I heard his moan but in a mahina way lang. He grabbed my nape and kissed me.

We kissed like there’s no tomorrow. He still squeezing my boobs while I’m my hand still doing the job. Napapabilis nga ang pagtaas-baba ko kapag pinipiga niya ang nipples ko. Shit, this is heaven lalo pa at maalam siya when it comes in things like this.

“Ugh… tángína!” he cursed because I’m using my both hands now na while jerking him. My left hand is massaging his balls while the other one is jerking his huge cock. “Súbó mo na please…”

“Kuya?!”

Bigla akong napatakip sa dibdib ko dahil may narinig kaming tumawag sa kanya, I think it is his younger brother. Shit! This is so embarrassing, he caught us making out in their museleo. I closed my eyes and sighed heavily.

“Tánginá mo, utol, wrong timing. Lumabas ka muna, gago!” Zeyn said na parang hindi na-embarrass. Wait, don’t tell me we’ll continue what we were doing after his brother caught us. Oh no, please I can’t.

His eyes went mine so I lowered my gaze because I can’t stare at him even for a seconds. He held my chin kaya napatingin na ako sa kanya. His eyes are puffy now and telling me that I should listen in whatever he say. Okay, dzaddy. Joke!

“Alam kong pangalawang beses ko na ’tong hihingin sa’yo at sana ay mapagbigayan mo pa rin ako sa pangalawang pagkakataon. Humihingi ako ng pasensya sa mga nagawa at nasabi ko sa’yo kanina. Pasensya kana kasi mas inuna ko na naman ang ulo ko sa ibaba. Tsk!” he said and shooked his head. I chuckled because of his look.

I stopped laughing naman when I saw his brows furrowed. I sighed. “You don’t have to say sorry. We both wrong kasi mas inuna nating gawin ang mali kaysa sa mag-isip ng tama.” I said.

He nodded so umalis na ko sa lap niya and find my nipple tape. I’m sure nandito lang ’yon ’cause I threw it earlier when Zeyn take off my tank top.

I’m not using bra kasi ’cause I found it uncomfortable. Nakaayos naman na ’yung damit ko but I can’t went out without the nipple tape because people might think that we had séx, though almost. Shit! Where do I threw them?!

“Ito ba ’yung hinahanap mo?” I faced Zeyn after what he said and I saw him holding my nipple tape. I slightly nod my head and took the nipple tape from him.

I turned my back at him and fix my clothes. After fixing my nipple tape, I faced him and gave him an awkward smile. “Uh, I’m leaving.”

“Hatid na kita.” he sincerely said. Why do I feel na nakonsensya siya sa ginawa namin. He did not like it ba. Like what the fúck if ganon nga. Shit!

“Uhm, no need. Nakakahiya sa brother mo. And I can handle my self din naman. Bye.” I said and he nodded. I walk palabas ng museleo nila but I stopped walking when he called my name.

“Reese!” Shit. Why it so sounds expensive ’nong pagtawag niya sa pangalan ko. I composed myself na kumalma before turning my gaze to him.

“Hmm..”

He scratched his nape before giving me an awkward smile. “Sana hindi kita nabastos… sorry ulit.”

After he said that, he lowered his gaze and I don’t know why my heart melt because of his aura. I smiled before I called his name kaya nakaharap na siya sa ’kin.

“No, hindi mo ko nabastos. And like what I’ve told you earlier, we both did wrong so you don’t have to say sorry.” I said and smiled. Napatango naman siya ng dahan-dahan bago ngumiti. Shit!

“Oh, so hindi pa naman siguro paso ’yung trial card ko?” he said smiling. I shooked my head in disbelief. Kanina lang para kaming nasa impyerno sa init ng nararamdaman sa isa’t isa and now we’re flirting like one of the sweet candies out there.

“Nope, and kahit ma-expired ’yung trial card mo you can extend naman. Charaught.” I said. He chuckled because of what I said. A couple of seconds after saka ko lang na-realize ’yung sinabi ko. Shit!

“Sinabi mo ’yan, huh!” he said smirking. Hindi ko na lang siya pinansin and turned back to him. I bit my lower lip because I felt butterflies in my stomach. Shit!

After I went out to their museleo, I saw his younger brother outside and nagtanguan lang kami like nothing happened.

When I arrived in our museleo, nagpa-deliver na lang kami ng lunch and sabay-sabay kaming kumain nina Manang. We took a lot of photos and I film pa while we were eating. Gabi na din kami nakauwi sa house.

While I’m doing my skin care routine. Tumunog ’yung phone ko and halos dumugo ang labi ko sa kilig na nararamdaman ’cause finally Zeyn followed me back. Fúck!!!

Tomorrow morning ay late na ’ko nagising and when I went downstairs, I saw Kuya Kierr and Rei sitting on our couch. My brows furrowed. Why he’s here?

“Kuya?” I called him. Tumingin siya sa ’kin sabay ngiti. But my gaze went to the frosted bag his holding. It’s from Shein and I think it’s my swimsuit.

“Hey. Good morning, gorgeous.” he said. Nang makalapit ako sa kanya ay we did beso, then kinuha ko sa kanya ’yung frosted bag. I’m right. It’s my swimsuit, bukas na kasi ang alis namin papuntang Bora.

“What brings you here? Ang aga mo, huh.” I asked when I eventually sat next to him. Umiling lang siya and ngumisi.

“Nothing. Inom tayo.” pag-aya niya so my left brow arched. Although late akong nagising but the time is considered pa rin na maaga for inom session.

I stared at him and he gave me an innocent smile. I shrugged and stood up. “Okay, wait me sa garden. I take a bath lang. Sandali lang naman ako.”

After he nodded, I went upstairs and took a bath. I just wore a simple clothes then went to garden na. Kuya Kierr and Rei was there talking about something. And when they noticed me, binuksan nila ’yung Cuervo saka ako naupo sa katapat na upuan.

Our bonding went smooth. Hinahayaan ko na din uminom si Rei. I think mas better na matuto siya ng ganitong things para at least she know how to handle herself and how to interact properly with other people. Para hindi din siya mauto lang ng kung sino.

“Uhm.. we’re planning to go in Bora tomorrow. You wanna join?” I asked him after I drink the shot. He turned his look at me and shooked his head.

“Thanks but no thanks. I have other errands tomorrow. Mom wants me to go sa party ng pinsan ko. I tried to say no pero nagalit na naman siya sa ’kin. Well, we all know her. Tsk.” he said saka maangas na ininom ’yung shot. His jaw clenched while shaking his head. Good looks runs in our blood talaga. Kidding.

“Oh, okay. Let’s take a picture na lang but fix your face first. Papanget ka niyan.” I joked. He chuckled before fixing his hair. Naglapit kaming tatlo saka ko pinindot yung phone ko to capture our gorgeous visuals. Chos!

I posted our picture on my Instagram story and si Rei lang ni-mention ko. We talked pa ng random things lang until inaya ni Kuya si Rei mag-ml, 1v1 daw sila so I turn on the internet of my phone. Mag brows na lang ako sa socmed ko.

Kakabukas palang ng data ko ay ang daming notifs na from my Instagram. A lot of people replied on my story asking my Kuya Kierr’s name or saying how gorgeous our lahi is. But one man caught my attention.

_zeyem:

ganda lods, pero sino yang kasama mo?

Wala namang nakakatawa sa sinabi niya pero napapangiti ako. Is it because he called me beautiful or is it because of lods? I don’t know. Eltom also replied sa story ko and said na I’m pretty pero walang effect. Hindi ko na talaga alam. I sighed heavily.

I replied him na Kuya Kierr is just my cousin. I thought hindi na siya magrereply pa but he asked something pa. Our conversations went smooth and hindi ko namalayan na kanina pa pala ko nakangiti so when I turned my head to Kuya Kierr and Rei, para silang tanga na nakatulala sa ’kin.

Pinatay ko yung data ng phone ko then I get the shot glass para mabawasan ’yung kaba. I don’t know why I felt nervous, eh, wala naman akong ginagawang masama. But thank gosh dahil hindi naman sila nagtanong hanggang sa natapos ang session namin.

Zeyn and I still talking on Instagram. I’m fixing my things now na dadalhin sa Bora tomorrow. I think para na ’kong timang na ngumingiti dito mag-isa dahil sa mga banat niya. We talked until midnight and nauna siyang mag good night. Okay, I admitted, I’m attracted to him. Shet talaga!

_zeyem:

good morning lods.

ris:

you’re early bird pala. btw, good morning.

For the first time in this morning, I bit my lower lip kasi may good night na may good morning pa. But I should calm myself ’cause he’s a well-known fúckboi. Matagal naman ng nakakulong ang puso ko so I know it’s safe.

_zeyem:

papunta kasi kaming boracay ngayon at birthday ni arthur.

_zeyem:

pero walang babae, lods. :)

I chuckled to his second messages. Who cares kung may babae or wala. And bakit naman niya kailangang sabihin na may babae or wala, eh, I did not ask naman. I rolled my eyes. Defensive.

ris:

actually we also going there, i see u then?

_zeyem:

see u, lods.

Ten am when we arrived in Bora. Kahit na papunta palang kami sa hotel ay may hinahanap na agad ang mata ko. I shooked my head and walk fastly. Stop self!

“Sizt, Ben&Ben daw ang magpe-perform sa pa-gig kineme ni mayor.” Louis said. Nasa loob na kami ng Henann Prime Resort and two rooms lang ang ni-check in namin. Kasya naman kasi kaming four girls sa isang room lang then the other rooms is for the boys.

“Really?! Okay, I’ll go then. How much ba ’yung ticket?” I asked. She told me the price and I told her na i-reserve ako ng one ticket ’cause I know Rei will not go with me ’cause she’s an introvert.

My phone beeped, then I immediately get it and I saw that I have messages from Zeyn. Napatingin ako kay Louis after I bit my lower lip. What’s wrong with me ba?! Girl, kalma! Inaya ka lang mag-drinks sa labas. Shems!

Nagpaalam ako kay Louis na lalabas lang ako sandali and she just nodded. Nakasalubong ko si Claire and Rei sa living room and I told them na may pupuntahan lang ako.

Wearing my oversized white button-down long sleeve, I walked through Sea Breeze Cafe. Zeyn told me that he was there. Inaya niya kong mag-drinks.

When I arrived there, I saw him wearing a beach polo and black shorts. He also wearing sun glasses and his pointed nose screamed arrogance. Nakapasok naman ’yung kaliwang braso niya sa bulsa ng shorts niya kaya parang ang angas niya.

I stopped ogling him and when I’m about to walk through his spot, a girl came his side and cupped his face. My brow arched because of the scene. Hinintay ko kung ano gagawin niya pero parang nag-eenjoy siya sa pagdikit-dikit ng suso ng girl. I sighed heavily. This asshole! Hindi niya ba nararamdaman ’yung dede? Tsk.

I started walking where he is and ng halos ilang meters na lang ang layo ko ay napatingin siya sa pwesto ko. I arched my left brow and umayos siya ng upo atsaka mabilis na napalunok. He stood up and walked to my spot.

“Ah-hh… nagtatanong ’yung babae kung saan ’yung CR sabi ko hindi ko naman alam kaya wag ako yung tanungin. Hehe!” he said and smiled at me forcefully. I rolled my eyes at him and gave him an sarcastic smile. Asshole.

“Really?”

“Oo nga. Tara na ililibre na kita ng drinks.” he said and he encircled his arm on my waist. Hinayaan ko na lang yung moves niya and ng mapatingin ako sa pwesto ng babae kanina ay wala na. Baka naka-ihi na. Charaught!

I told to the waiter what’s my drink and Zeyn did that too. While waiting sa drinks he told me kung saan ’yung room nila and sa Henann Garden pala sila. I told him din na sabihing happy birthday kay Arthur and he nodded naman.

We talked ramdom things and to be honest ay sobrang gwapo niya sa paningin ko kaya hindi ko masisisi ’yung mga girls na tumitingin sa kanya.

After we drink the drinks he insisted na ihatid ako sa hotel room namin. We both stood up and again, he encircled his arm on my waist.

“Sa Prime kayo ’di ba?” he asked and I slightly nodded. Naglakad kami papuntang Henann Prime but a two men came on our way. The one guy is smiling from ear to ear while the other one is casual.

“Hello po, ang ganda niyo po pala talaga sa personal, Miss Reese.” the guy whom smiling from ear to ear said. “Papicture lang pong isa.”

Napatingin naman ako kay Zeyn when I felt that his arm held my waist tighter. My brows met. What’s wrong? And ang sama ng tingin niya sa lalaki. This asshole talaga.

“Uh, sure. Where’s the camera ba?” I asked and his friend show us the film camera. Tumingin ako kay Zeyn and dahan-dahan niyang bitawan ang waist ko. I walk towards the guy naman after that.

Tumabi sakin ’yung lalaki and parehas kaming ngumiti sa camera. The second photo is nakaakbay siya sakin. I thought we are done but he requested one more.

Nagtabi kami ulit but nagulat ako ng hawakan niya ang balakang ko na malapit sa pwet. Pero mas nagulat ako ng may humila sakin papalayo sa lalaki.

“Tol, foul na ’yon. ’Tsaka pwede na siguro ’yung picture niyo nong una. Wala namang bayad ’to kaya wag ka ng mapili.” Maangas at taas noo niyang ani. Hinawakan niya ulit ako sa bewang bago kami naglakad. “Galawan ng gago! Tsk.”

I said my thank you to him after niya kong ihatid. Pagpasok ko naman ng room namin, I saw my friends and they are all swimming in pool side.

I changed my clothes lang then I wore my white two-piece. After applying sunscreen, I dive to the pool kaya pag-angat ng ulo ko ay malutong na mura ang natanggap ko kina Claire and Louis. I chuckled.

We took photos lang and we ate lunch na. They choose to order fast food na lang then sa dinner na lang daw kami kumain sa resto ng hotel. In the afternoon we went to the beach side to play volleyball.

Zeyn and his friends also there playing ultimate. May kalaro silang two women na parehong nakasuot ng two-piece. Napatingin naman silang magkakaibigan sa spot namin when Edward greet Arthur a happiest birthday. Zeyn and I eyes met, then he lowered his gaze to examine my body. I’m wearing now a white dolphin short shorts, I can’t wear my panty only. Mamaya sumilip ang hindi dapat sumilip. Play time!

The way he ogling my body gave shiver down my spine. Shet! He licked his lower lip before turning his gaze in my eyes. Matalim ang binigay niyang titig bago nag-iwas ng tingin. I shivered.

We started the game na and my teammates are Rei, Edward and Louis. While Claire, Yohan, Jin and Primo are the teammates. The game went smooth but medyo nakakailang dahil may mga lalaki sa likod namin and minsan ay napapatuwad ako. But I don’t mind them since my butt is flawless naman. Charaught.

Sometimes ay napapatingin ako sa gawi nina Zeyn and the lad looks very annoyed. Nakasibangot siya habang umiigting ang panga. That asshole! I sighed.

“Ouch!” I said. Tinamaan ng bola ’yung right eye ko thank gosh ’cause hindi mabigat ’yung bola. Plastic kasi.

“Sorry, dre, sorry.” Primo said and lumapit sa gawi ko. Inangat niya ’yung baba ko para tingnan ’yung right eye ko. I think namumula ’yon dahil medyo mahapdi.

“Yown!!!” my friends howled because Primo kissed my right eye. Para daw hindi na mamula. Mas lalo namang nagwala na parang timang ’yung mga friends namin when Primo hugged me and buried my face on his chest.

“Aray, erp, masakit gago!” napatingin namin kami kay Troy kasi nasa gilid lang namin silang nagp-play. “Ba’t ba bigla ka na lang na-badtrip, eh, kanina ang saya-saya mo.”

“Ayoko na tangina! Pabida ampota!” he said before turning his back on us. Sinipa niya pa ’yung buhangin bago siya nag-disappear sa sight ko. I sighed heavily.

We ate dinner at Sea Breeze Cafe and we went to beach side again after. Of course, mag-iinom kami. Rei is playing video games sa room namin and I don’t know where Jin is.

“Sinong matatalo may dare, huh!” Louis said and we all nodded. Pinamigay na niya ’yung uno card then we started gaming.

Unang natalo ay si Louis kaya tawa kami nang tawa. Inutos ni Primo na mag-lap dance siya kay Edward na agad namang ginawa ng gaga. She looks enjoy pa nga. I rolled my eyes.

I don’t know what game ako natalo because I’m now tipsy. I rolled my eyes because si Claire ang naka-assign saking mag-dare. And she’s smirking. Bitch!

“Show your boobs sa pwesto nila Zeyn. Pa-birthday mo kay Arthur.” she said and laughed. Nag-apir pa sila ni Louis kaya napa-irap na lang ako.

I stood up after drinking my shot. I walked kung nasaan sina Zeyn and I saw them drinking in Wave Bar & Lounge. While walking in their direction I saw how Zeyn’s jaw clenched. I shivered.

When I arrived to their spot, I smiled at them and the two bitches rolled their eyes on me. Ugly duckling! Hindi ko na sila pinansin and I turn my gaze to Arthur.

“Happy Birthday.” I greeted and mabilis na inalis ang pagkakatali ng suot kong bra para makita nila ang boobs ko.

“Putangina!” Zeyn cursed and mabilis na lumapit sakin at isinubsob ako sa dibdib niya. Amoy na amoy ko tuloy ang panlalaki niyang amoy na sobrang bango. “Anong ginagawa mo?! Lasing ka ba?” mariin at madilim niyang tanong. Umiigting din ang panga niya at lumabas na lahat ng ugat niya sa leeg.

“Nope. Just tipsy!” I answered chuckling.

“Tangina niyo Troy at Arthur wag kayong tumingin dito. Talikod.” he said. And even I don’t see his friends pakiramdam ko ay napasunod niya sa sobrang diin ng pagkaka-utos niya. Fúck!

Nagkatinginan kami at madilim pa rin ang pinupukol niyang tingin sa akin. Pakiramdam ko ay nawala ang lasing ko ng kaunti dahil sa itsura niya. Gosh!

“At ikaw. Don ka maghubad sa kwarto ko ng makita natin ’yang galing mo.” ani niyang galit habang umiigting pa rin ang panga. Shit! I’m so dead.

Chapter 08

“Holy shit!” I said as I sat on the top of the bed. I craned my neck to my right side then I saw Zeyn sleeping peacefully. He’s handsome as hell.

I closed my eyes in frustration. I need to remember what happened last night. Then after a couple of seconds, napatakip ako sa bibig ko dahil sa gulat. Shit!

Mabilis kong sinilip ’yung katawan ko sa loob ng blanket. I sighed in relief when I saw that I’m still wearing my white dolphin short shorts and my bikini top. But I should also admit that I’m a bit disappointed because nothing happened between the two of us. I sighed.

“Good morning.” I turned my gazed to Zeyn when I heard his hoarse voice. I swallowed hard because of his look, smiling at me while rubbing his left eye.

“Morning.” I greeted. I sighed heavily, even though I’m pretty sure that nothing happened between us. I need clarification pa rin. “Uhm, may nangyari ba sa ’tin?”

I lowered my gaze after asking those words. Biglang natahimik naman ang paligid kaya dahan-dahan ko siyang nilingon then I saw his face looking surprised. My brow arched.

His surprised face turned to serious face after I gave him a stern look. “Wala, kasi ’nong sinisipsip ko ’yung dede mo ay bigla ka na lang nakatulog kaya hindi natuloy yung kantu——”

The way he say those words seems that he’s very confident. Hindi ko kinakaya ’yung pagiging straight forward niya kaya nasamid ako, and because of the samid, hindi na niya natuloy ’yung word na kantu—— Ugh! Nevermind!

I suddenly looked at him when he stood up. Wearing a board shorts and nothing on top. Again, I swallowed hard because his cock seems very mad. Napatingin naman ako sa mukha niya and I want magpakain sa lupa when I saw that he is also looking at me. I quickly averted my gaze. Fuck!

“Uh, sorry, normal ’yon sa ’min mga lalaki na tinitigasan sa umaga.” he said and I just nodded, still not looking at him. “Nga pala, wala talagang nangyari sa ’tin kasi tinulugan mo ’ko, hindi naman ako gumagalaw ng walang malay. ’Tsaka, hindi ko din gawain mamilit ng babae.”

After what he said ay doon ako napatingin sa kanya. He’s looking at me seriously kaya hindi ko tinanggal ang tingin ko sa kanya. Ilang segundo pa kami nagtitigan before he slowly walked through my spot. Then when he arrived to my direction, he sat next to me.

He placed my hair at the back of my ear, then malambing niyang hinaplos ang mukha ko while looking at me intently. Nagtitigan kami sandali bago niya idinikit ’yung labi niya sa labi ko. I don’t know how to react ’cause I know that I’m a bad breath. Hello, I just woke up!

“Mas gumanda ang umaga ko.” he said after the kissed. I gave him my genuine smile before I averted my gaze. Hindi ko kinakayang makipagtitigan sa kanya.

“Thank you.” iyan na lang ang nasabi ko.

“Uhm, mukhang nalasing ka kagabi? Naka-ilang shot ka ba?” I turned my gaze at him when he suddenly asked that question. He looks serious now. I sighed.

“Sakto lang. And I’m not drunk, ’no. I already told you that I’m just tipsy.” I said rolling my eyes. I knew myself from the start. I knew if I was drunk or not kaya wag niyang ipilit. Hmp!

“Eh, bakit naghubad ka ng bra kagabi sa harap namin? Buti na lang hindi nila masyadong nakita. Tangina!” he said. Napa-igting pa ang panga niya dahil sa inis. This asshole!

“It was just a dare. I need to do that because if not, I will face the consequence. Although, I don’t care about the consequence… my ego can’t accept another defeat.” I sighed heavily as I said that. Nakatitig lang naman siya sa ’kin pero halatang inis pa rin ’cause his brows are met half way.

“Sabihin mo sa mga kaibigan mo na sa susunod ayus ayusin ’yung dare. ’Tsaka sa susunod na iinom ka sasamahan kita kasi mukhang ibang klase kang malasing…” he said then pointed my face using his rough index finger. “Tandaan mo ’to! Hindi kana pwedeng galawin ng iba, ako na dapat ang huli. Tsk!”

Napahawak ako sa dibdib ko matapos niyang sabihin ’yon. He’s very straightforward, how come that he said those words without stuttering. I can’t. Ugh!!

“Halika na, ihahatid na kita sa kwarto niyo.” he said and stood up. I slightly nodded my head and tumayo na din. Tahimik lang naman kaming nakarating sa hotel ng Henann Prime.

We’re on our way home and I’m sitting next to Rei. Halos magkasabay lang naman kaming umalis ng Bora nina Zeyn and the latter told me pa na update him when I arrived in our home.

Napatingin naman ako kay Louis when I felt that she’s staring at me. Nang lingunin ko siya ay mariin siyang nakatitig sa ’kin, but she looks tensed. My forehead creased.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” I asked her. Dahan-dahan naman siyang lumunok before giving me her smile. Problema ng babaitang ’to?!

“Uhm, calm down, huh! Promise me that you’ll not be mad at me after mong marinig ang sasabihin ko.” she said. Mas lalo namang kumunot ang noo ko dahil sa sinabi niya.

“What is it? Tell me.” I seriously said.

“Nag-chat kasi sa ’kin si Harry now. And he told me na wala na daw available na ticket for concert ng Ben&Ben.” she said and immediately lowered her gaze. Shit!

“Omygosh! No! Tell him na I can pay twice than the original price para sa isang ticket!” I said hysterically. I can’t miss this one. Ang tagal kong hinintay na mapanuod silang mag-concert dito sa Bulacan then ganto lang mangyayari?! I can’t.

“Okay, okay. I’ll tell him.” she said as she sighed heavily. Natahamik naman kami after that but I’m hoping that she would get me a ticket, I don’t care even if it’s not VIP. I really can’t miss this one.

Until we arrived in our house, stress pa rin ako ’cause Louis told me na she’ll update me na lang regarding sa ticket. Because of stress ay hindi kaagad ako nakapag-update kay Zeyn, the reason why I received a lot of missed call from him.

Days have passed and stress ako dahil wala na daw talagang ticket na mabibilhan sabi ni Harry. But the latter suggested na sa tao na lang bumili kaso mas mahal daw, and I answered him na I can pay twice or thrice than the original price just to have the ticket. Magtatanong tanong daw sila nina Louis, I also asked my friends and wala daw silang extra-ng ticket. I sighed heavily.

[Free ka ba bukas?] Zeyn asked me through phone call. I’m here standing in veranda wearing my silk satin pajama pair.

“Yeah, why?” I asked as I look up on the sky. Star makes me feel calm. I always do this whenever I feel stressed.

[Samahan mo ko bukas bibili ’kong gitara sa mall. Sunduin na lang kita dyan. Oks lang ba, lods?] he said. I nodded kahit alam kong hindi niya makikita.

“Yeah, basta wag lang kainitan, okay?”

[Copy, lods. Sige na matulog kana masyado ng malambing ’yung boses mo, eh.] he said and I heard his deep manly laughter. I chuckled while shaking my head. This jerk. I sighed.

“Good night. I’ll see tomorrow.”

Kinabukasan ng hapon, I’m wearing black oversized shirt that has logo of Gucci and denim short shorts. Then I wore my multicolor Nike Air Force 1, red lipstick, jewelries, Dior sunglasses, and I’m done.

When I went out, I saw Zeyn leaning on BMW Sedan. Napatingin naman ako sa suot niya, he’s wearing plain navy blue shirts and khaki shorts, he’s also wearing a cap backward, then lastly, his white sneakers. I sighed heavily. What a sight!

“Hey, you have a car pala.” I said ng makalapit ako sa pwesto niya. He smiled and tumingin sa suot ko. I saw how his smile fade out, then looked at me intently.

“Hindi akin ’tong kotse. Kotse namin ’tong lahat, binili ni papa. Eh, hindi naman marunong mag-maneho si Zack kaya ako lang ang gumagamit.” he said seriously. I smiled before nodding my head.

I walked towards the passenger seat but nagpaka-gentleman naman si Zeyn, so siya mismo ang nag-open ng door. I said my gratitude to him as I eventually sat on the passenger seat. Konti lang napag-usapan namin kasi tutok siya sa pagd-drive. After twenty minutes, we arrived in mall.

“Gusto mo kain muna tayo?” he asked as he face me. I shooked my head and gave him a smile. He nodded naman before he encirled his arm on my waist. To be honest, kapag hawak niya ’ko, I feel secured and I don’t know why.

Pinagpatuloy namin ang paglalakad hanggang sa narating namin ’yung Musik Wizard. When we entered, the staff greet us and masigla naman silang binati ni Zeyn pabalik, then the latter asked something. Since they are talking, I roamed my eyes in the whole store and one thing caught my attention.

It’s the red mic. Naglakad ako kung saan siya nakalagay at tinitigan ko iyong mabuti. My voice is not good as a singer, but I remember when I was a child, me and Rei used to sing in our garden whenever we do picnic with our parents. Iyon ang pinaalala sa ’kin ng microphone na ito. Good old days. I sighed.

“Kumakanta ka?” napatingin ako sa taong nagsalita sa gilid ko. I chuckled before shaking my head.

“Nope. You, you’re a vocalist, right?” I said. Bigla naman ng nanlaki ang mata niya. And because of that, I realized what I told him. Oh shit! He doesn’t know nga pala that I knew na he’s singer.

“Pa’no mo nalaman, lods?” nakangising sabi niya sabay kiliti sa waist ko. This jerk! “Siguro ni-stalk mo ’ko ’no? Ikaw, ha!” he added and burst out. Napatingin tuloy sa ’min ’yung ibang buyer and even the staff. This asshole talaga. Nakakahiya!

“Stop it, will you?! Louis just told me that. I did not stalk you, and will never be. Wag kang feeling!” I said and rolled my eyes. He shrugged and playfully smirked.

“Sige, sabi mo, eh. Pero naunang nag-follow.” he said and laughed again. Ba’t ang feeling niya? Irritating. Ugh! “Kung gusto mo naman marinig ’yung boses ko. Sige, kakantahan kita… basta kakantahan mo din ako gamit ’yung mic ko.”

My eyes widened because he mumured the last sentence in my ear. I gave him a glare bago siya hinampas sa may braso.

“Pervert!”

He, once again, burst out. Naiirita na ’ko sa kanya to be honest. I turned my back to him and I walked palayo sa pwesto niya. But the jerk followed me. Argh!

“Teka lang, lods. Bakit naman sinabihan mo ’kong bastos. Ikaw ’tong marumi ang utak, eh. Meron akong sariling mic sa bahay. Pina-customized pa ’yon ni Papa para lang sa ’kin.” he said.

I don’t mind him and pinagpatuloy ang pagtingin ko sa mga things. Hindi ko ugali ang mag-inarte sa public place because I hate making a scene. I don’t know why hindi ko mapigilan now, maybe because of the hormonal imbalance. Ugh! Fuck mood swings!

“Lods, sorry na. Nabastos ba kita?” panunuyo niya but I’m still not looking to his side. And I think we’re not making a scene naman so pinabayaan ko lang siyang magsalita nang magsalita.

“Sir, ito na po ’yung order n’yong electric guitar. Paniguradong matatanggal ’yung inis sa inyo ni ma’am kapag tinugtugan niyo po gamit ito. Hehe!” I immediately faced the staff after I heard what he said. I gave him a shy smile before turning my gazed to Zeyn.

“Sigurado ka, boss, huh! Kapag ito hindi, huh!” Zeyn said while chuckling. Napatawa din tuloy ’yung staff dahil sa asta niya. “Salamat, boss!”

“Thank you din po, boss, bagay na bagay po kayo ni ma’am. Hehe!” the staff said and nahihiyang ngumiti sa ’kin. My forehead creased because of what he said. And when I’m about to say something— Zeyn cut me.

“Dami nga pong nagsasabi. Kaso topakin po, eh. Sige po, salamat ulit, boss.” Zeyn said. Mas lalo naman akong nainis kanya dahil sa sinabi niya. Nagtanguan pa sila ng staff before he grabbed my waist and went out of the boutique.

“Don’t touch me!” I said and inalis ’yung arm niya sa waist ko. Mukha naman siyang nagulat but the jerk immediately pulled me and kiss me on my temple.

“Sorry na, love. Wag ka ng mainis sa ’kin, please!!” he said and pouted his lips. Pinigilan kong ngumiti dahil ang cute niya. But the asshole tickled my waist kaya napatili ako, buti na lang wala masyadong tao. Shit!

“Love mo mukha mo!” I said and rolled my eyes. Hindi naman ako makalayo sa kanya kasi mahigpit siyang nakahawak sa tagiliran ko.

“Wag ka ng mainis sabi. Bibili na lang kitang ice cream para lumamig ’yang ulo mo.” he said and we walked towards the ice cream kiosk.

After naming um-order ay naupo kami sa bench ng food court. Sa sulok kami puwesto kasi ayoko masyado nang atensyon. Tahimik lang kaming kumakain ng ice cream when I noticed that he’s staring at me. My forehead creased.

“Why?!” I asked frowning. Mabilis niyang iniling ’yung ulo niya bago napalunok ng mariin. Mas lalo namang kumunot ang noo ko.

I don’t mind him na and continue licking the ice cream. Nasa cone kasi ang pinili ko kasi I enjoyed eating on it. “Tangina!”

I was shocked when he suddenly curse. And bigla-bigla niya na lang sinakop ang labi ko. Nang matauhan, I immediately pushed him because people might see us. Is he horny?! Earlier pa siya, huh!

“The hell is your problem?!” I said frowning. I’m  trying to contain my anger. I hate making a scene in public, hindi nakaka-class. Argh!

“May dumi ka kasi sa gilid ng labi, inalis ko lang gamit ’yung bibig ko.” he arrogantly said. Ba’t ganyan ang attitude niya. I rolled my eyes at him. He’s so irritating!

“Are you horny?!” I asked and nanlaki ang mata niya. Mabilis naman niyang iniwas ang tingin after that.

“Hi-hindi… napatitig lang kasi ako sa’yo ’nong dinidilaan mo ’yung ice cream. Ta’s napaisip ako bigla na pa’no kung ’yung bur——”

I cut him because I know what he’s trying to say. I tried not to laugh because of what he said. Kaya pala nakatitig siya sa ’kin kanina. Jerk!

“You’re so pervert talaga!”

Days had passed. And yes, we make out in his BMW Sedan after we went in the mall. The simple goodbye kiss turned to french kiss. Magaling kasi ang jerk, he massage my breast kaya nawala na naman ako sa tamang pag-iisip. But once again, parehas na naman kaming nabitin because Ate Sarah knocked to his window. She asked us why ang tagal kong lumabas ng kotse. Nagpasulot na lang ako.

“Ako na pipila.” I said to them because they’re fighting kung sino ang dapat pumila. They clapped naman sa tuwa after what I said.

While waiting sa line, nag-brows ako sa socmed ko kasi medyo malayo pa naman ako. “Hey.”

Napatingin ako sa likod ko dahil ’don nanggaling ’yung tunog ng boses. I smiled after I saw who’s the guy. It’s Mr. Eltom Ash Gutierrez.

“Hi.” I greeted.

“Long time no see. How are you?” he said and smiled. Gumanti naman ako ng ngiti before I open my mouth.

“I’m okay. How ’bout you?”

“I’m fine, by the way manunuod ka ng concert ng Ben&Ben this Friday night?” my mood suddenly changed because of his question.

“Uhm, until now kasi hindi ako makahanap ng ticket.” I said. Bigla naman siyang ngumiti kaya napakunot ang noo ko. “Why?!”

“I have extra ticket.” he said and halos manlaki ang mata ko sa gulat dahil sa sinabi niya.“I’ll give you that if… sasama ka sa ’kin sa Friday.” he added smirking. Mabilis akong tumango.

“Yes, of course.”

Friday night came and I’m wearing a black backless tank top and denim short shorts. Eltom fetched me here in our house. And now we’re standing in front of the stage. Call me OA but I’m literally crying right now because after this band ay may isa pa then it’s Ben&Ben na. Aww! I’m so excited.

“Grabe nae-excite na ’ko sa Ben&Ben!” Louis said giggling. Nasa left side ko siya while Eltom is in my right side. I looked at him when he smoothly encircled his arm on my waist. Pinabayaan ko na lang.

“Let’s welcome the second to the last performance, it’s The Five!!” the host announced kaya nag-sigawan at nagpalakpakan ang mga tao.

Napako naman ang mga mata ko sa lalaking nasa gitna. Wearing a white fitted tank top and black pants. Nagpalakas pa ng dating niya is that tattoo on his right arm. And his belt na kita kasi naka-tuck in sa harap ’yung top niya. Geez!

“I love you, Zeyn! Ang gwapo mo!!” the girl screamed near us. Napatingin ’don si Zeyn saka ngumisi, mas lalo tuloy nagwala sa kilig si girl.

His gazed went mine and he looked shock seeing me here in front of him. But his shocked fade out when he saw the guy beside me, then his forehead creased and his jaw clenched. Nag-iwas ako ng tingin.

“Dalawang song lang po ang kakantahin namin at ayaw na po naming patagalin pa ang pag-iintay niyo sa Ben&Ben.” he said using his baritone voice. The crowd howled once again before he strum to his electic guitar, which is ni-buy namin a days ago.

After nilang ma-test ’yung tunog ay hinawakan na niya ’yung microphone, his veins is very visible kung saan man ako nakatayo ngayon. Lumakas ang music sa paligid pero rinig pa rin ’yung sigawan ng mga tao. And I don’t know why I felt nervous.

“Ang kantang ito ay Prinsesa by 6 Cyclemind. Para ’to sa lahat ng na love at first sight.” he said chuckling. Hinintay kong tingnan niya ko pero hindi nangyari. He closed his eyes before starting to sing the first line. “Nakaupo siya sa isang madilim na sulok… Ewan ko ba kung bakit sa libo-libong babaeng nandoon, wala pang isang minuto nahulog na ang loob ko sa’yo…”

Nang buksan niya ang mga mata niya ay saktong nagkatinginan kami. Buong akala ko ay mauunang siyang mag-iwas ng tingin ngunit hindi niya ginawa. Dahil hindi ko kayang makipagtitigan sa kanya ng matagal ay ako na ang naunang nag-iwas ng tingin. Shit!

He continued singing the song kaya sumasabay na sa kanya ang mga tao. I’m quietly listening to his voice because it’s gave me goosebumps. He’s really talented. Parang anghel sa pandinig ko ang boses niya.

“Gusto ko sanang lumapit kung ’di lang sa lalaking kayakap mo…” sambit niya sa linya at direktang tumingin sa braso ni Eltom na nakapalupot sa bewang ko. Hindi ko alam bakit bigla kong inalis ang kamay ni Eltom, dahilan ng pagtingin niya sa akin. He gave me a wondering look.

“Uh, its hot kasi.”

He nodded and look to stage again. My mind is too occupied the reason why I did not noticed that their first song is already done. Nag-umpisa na ulit tumugtog ’yung second song nila, I think it’s Pare Ko by Eheads.

“Para ’to sa mga nagseseryoso na pero pinaaasa lang pala.” he said and giggled. Kanya-kanyang sigaw na naman ang mga tao. Then once again, he held the microphone and sang the first line. “Oh, pare ko meron akong problema, wag mo sabihing na naman… Inlab ako sa isang Senior High School, hindi ko maintindihan…”

It’s kolehiya if I’m not misktaken. Lalo tuloy naghiyawan ang mga tao. Then nagkatinginan kami ulit while he continue singing the song, agaran naman akong nag-iwas ng tingin. Geez!

“Masakit man isipin, kailangang tanggapin, kung kailan ka naging seryoso saka ka niya gagaguhin… Oh, diyos ko! Ano ba naman ito, ’di ba? TANGINA… Nagmukha ako tanga, pinaasa niya lang ako… Letcheng pag-ibig ’to….”

Wala na ’kong nakikita sa paligid kung hindi siya na lamang. Hindi ko alam kung pa’no nangyari iyon pero boses niya lang ang naririnig ko hanggang sa matapos ang kanta. Then the host walked towards his spot.

“Grabe ’yung performance mo, Kuya! Mukhang pinaasa ka din, huh!” the host said, joking to be exact. “So, pinaasa ba ang katulad mong gwapo na talented pa?”

Nag-ingay na naman ang paligid kasama na sina Claire and Louis. Tumawa lang si Zeyn bago kinuha ’yung mic niya and nagsalita.

“Parang ganon na nga. Kasi akala ko ako na lang ang kausap, marami pala kami.” he said and tumingin sa pwesto ’ko. Malungkot siyang ngumiti bago nagpaalam pababa ng stage, dahilan kung bakit sumakit ang puso ko.

Aminin ko man o sa hindi… alam kong siya ang dahilan kung bakit nagising muli ang natutulog kong puso. And please! Don’t say that, kasi hindi kita pinapaasa, love.

Chapter 09

“Uy, congrats, ’tol!” Edward said. Me and girls are talking about something and sabay-sabay kaming napatingin sa binati ni Edward. And there, I saw Zeyn na tipid na ngumiti kay Edward.

“Salamat, boi.” Troy uttered then they did man hug. After that ay napatingin siya sa spot namin, dahilan kaya napatingin din ang bestfriend niya.

Troy is smiling from ear to ear while his bestfriend is looked uninteresting. My forehead creased. But in the end, I just shrugged. Maybe he’s pagod because of their performance.

“Uhm, congrats. You both did well.” I said smiling. Troy gave me his smile while Zeyn is still look annoyed.

“Salamat, Reese.” ani ni Troy and siniko niya si Zeyn but hindi natinag ’yung isa kaya he plastered a shy smile. I don’t know how will I react kaya ngumiti na lang din ako ng pilit.

“Tara na.” mariin at matigas niyang aya kay Troy habang umiigting ang panga. The latter looked suprised by the tone of Zeyn’s voice. Well, I’m also shooked. He really looked mad.

“Huh?! Akala ko ba aayain mong mag-rides si Ree——”

“Halika na.” Zeyn uttered and malakas niyang hinila paalis si Troy sa pwesto namin. Nagkatinginan tuloy kami nina Louis after that.  I heaved a deep sigh. What’s happening to him?! Bakit mukhang badtrip siya tonight?

“Let’s go?” Eltom said smiling as he encircled his arm on my waist. Alam kong wala siyang ibang pinakita sa akin kung hindi kabaitan, but I should ditch him now ’cause someone alredy caught my heart… And it’s not him.

“Uhm, I’m sorry. I know you were so kind to me since day one and I’m very grateful for that, pero hindi nga siguro natuturuan ang puso kasi may sarili siyang isip.” I said. Pakiramdam ko ay maiiyak ako now because I’m being emotional for the past weeks.

He smiled but his eyes can’t lie. Oh my, I’m sorry. “It’s okay, alam ko naman na noon pa, hinihintay lang kitang magsalita. But I guess ngayon mo lang din na-figure out that you really like him.”

I nodded and smiled.

“Exactly.”

“Go, you follow him na. Baka hindi mo pa siya abutan.” he said smiling. Napangiti ako ng malungkot saka mabilis siyang niyakap. I felt he caressed my back because I’m crying na pala. Oh gosh!

“Thank you so much!” I said after the hug. Mabilis akong tumakbo papalayo sa kanya at narinig ko pang tinawag ako ng mga kaibigan ko, but I did not mind them. I’ll explain na lang tomorrow in our group chat guys, I’m sorry.

I went to the parking lot but I don’t see him there. Agad akong umalis because a lot of guys are staring on my legs, and they scaring the hell out of me. I also went to the food stall nearby but again, he was not there.

I sat on the bench nang maramdaman ko ang pagod. I can’t see him! Napapikit ako at pagbukas ko ng mga mata ko ay may tumulong mga luha. Shit! Why I am crying?!

Fuck mood swings! Stop crying, Reese! It won’t helped you. Why I feel like I’m in the movie and I’m chasing someone na hindi ko na ulit makikita dahil lang hindi ko naabutan umalis. I can call and messages him naman with the help of technology. Maybe, I’m just being emotional again because of hormonal imbalance. Shit! Transitioning is too hard, but I know it’s worh it.

Weekends had passed and malamig pa sa snow ang pag-uusap namin ni Zeyn. Everytime I made a topic to talk, he always say na he’s busy and he need to do other stuff. I really want to tell him my feelings towards him but I guess this is not the right time and it’s better to tell him in person.

I am now infront of my vanity mirror, applying eye liner. Then after that, I also put mascara. I’m wearing a oversized sweatshirts and white pleated skirt. Lastly, I applied a red liptint from Nars. Perfect!

When I went downstairs, I saw Ate Sarah and she asked me pa na mag-breakfast muna but I told her na magpapa-drop na lang ako kay Manong Andoy sa Starbucks. Naglakad na ko papuntang garage and Manang Ine and Mang Andoy was already there, sasabay kasi si Manang sa ’min to buy groceries. Hindi ko kasabay si Rei because eight ang start ng first class ko and seven naman siya sa kanya. Masyadong naman akong maaga sa school kung sasabay ako sa kanya. I can’t!

Nang makasakay na kami ay inumpisahan ng mag-drive ni Mang Andoy. I’m quietly sitting in the backseat while the two senior are talking about something, I don’t mind them and I get my phone instead, scrolling nonstop.

“Uh, Manong, pa-drop na lang po ako sa Starbucks. Thanks!” I said. He just nodded and continue doing his business. Manang Ine asked me if I did not eat breakfast sa house and I answered her no. I’m craving din kasi sa pastries ng SB.

After akong i-drop ni Manong sa tapat ng Starbucks ay naglakad ako papasok. Wala masyadong tao kaya dumiretso na ’ko sa counter.

“Good morning, ma’am.” the barista greeted me. I greet her back and told my order. After that ay naupo ako sa isang chair na malapit sa door nila. While I’m waiting, I checked my phone if anong ganap sa GC namin or nag-messages na ba si Zeyn. But to suprise… wala. I sighed heavily.

Nag-scroll na lang ako sa Instagram while waiting. Nakaka-ilang scroll palang ako when I noticed a man who’s wearing a plain white polo shirts that has a logo of our school name and it perfectly tucked on his black pants. He’s also wearing a shade and school id, then his tattoo caught my eyes because the protruding veins around his arm are very evident.

Tinitigan ko siya but hindi siya humarap sa ’kin at deretsong lumabas ng Starbucks. Saktong paglabas niya ay lumapit sa akin ang nakangiting barista. I smiled back atsaka mabilis na kinuha sa kanya ang coffee and bread ko.

Paglabas ko ng SB ay malapit na sa school gate si Zeyn kaya binilisan ko ang paglalakad, why he’s so fast?! Oh, c’mon, Reese! He has long legs, that’s why.

I ran and not minding the coffee I’m holding. I don’t want to yell his name naman because it may ’cause a scene. Shit! This is so annoying!

Nang malapit na ’ko sa kanya ay tinawag ko ang pangalan niya na hindi makakakuha ng ibang atensyon. Akala ko ay hindi niya ’ko papansin but I was wrong. Huminto siya at dahan-dahang tumingin sa pwesto ko habang nakakakunot ang noo at umiigting ang panga. His dark aura is not suitable in the beautiful morning.

“Hi, good morning.” I greeted. Tinaas niya lang ang kaliwang kilay niya saka ako binigyan ng nagtatanong na tingin. He still cold. Ugh!

Akmang tatalikuran niya ’ko ng hitakin ko ang braso niya. Napaharap ulit siya sa ’kin but his eyes went to his arm that I’m holding. Dahan-dahan siyang tumingin sa mga mata ko and I saw how his jaw clenched. Shit!

“Uh, have you eaten?” I asked. But once again, his jaw clenched. Napabitaw tuloy ako sa braso niyang hawak-hawak ko. Nakakatakot ang aura niya this morning.

“Ba’t ako ang tinatanong mo niyan? Bakit hindi mo ayain ’yung lalaki mo ’nong Biyernes?!” he uttered while clenching his jaw, and his eyes are more darken. But instead of being afraid to him, I chuckled, but hindi ko pinahalata.

“Hindi naman kita inaayang kumain, I’m just asking. But anyway, I have to go now Eltom is waiting for me.” I said smirking. Mas lalo naman tuloy dumilim ang titig niya sa akin. Akmang lalagpasan ko na siya ng harangan niya ang daan. I smirked.

“Subukan mong makipagkita ulit ’don at talagang uuwi ’yon ng naka-bulsa ang ulo.” mariin at madilim niyang sabi. Pinigilan kong matawa kaya kinagat ko ang ibabang labi ko. But of course, may kumawala pa rin mahinang hagikgik kaya kunot-noo siyang napatingin sa akin. “Wag mo ’kong tawanan, Reese, at makikita mo ’yung sinasabi ko. Tsk!”

He’s so serious saying that kaya napaayos ako ng sarili. Since malapit naman na ako sa kanya ay niyakap ko siya paharap at tumingala sa gwapo niyang pagmumukha. I felt that his body stunned kaya napangiti ako. Naamoy ko din ang scent niya and it’s so manly. Geez!

I pouted my lips, trying to be cute. “Don’t be mad na, please… And I’m just kidding na makikipagkita ko kay Eltom because I already ditched him last Friday night. Alam ko kasing may nagselos.”

“Tsk! Hindi ako nagseselos.” he uttered and rolled his eyes. I chuckled. Cutie!

“Okay, sabi mo, eh. So, you’re not mad na?” I asked. I’m still hugging him and hindi namin pinapansin ang mga matang nakatingin sa amin. Well, we can’t blame them. Ang aga namin for Public Display of Affection. Kidding!

“Pa’no pa ’ko magagalit kung naglalambing ka ng gan’to? Tangina! Alam na alam mo kung pano ko palambutin at patigasin, ’no?!” he uttered and my forehead creased. Hinampas ko naman siya ng ma-realize ko ’yung ‘patigasin’ na word. Jerk!

“You talaga!” I said and chuckled. Umiling naman siya saka ako niyakap ng mabuti. Napasubsob tuloy ako ng tuluyan sa dibdib niya, the reason why his smell entered my nose. He really smells good. Fudge!

“Please, love. Hayaan mo ’kong ligawan ka.” he whispered. His word gave butterflies in my stomach and I can’t help but to feel more beautiful and special. Gosh! Pakiramdam ko ay hulog na hulog na ’ko at mahihirapan ng umahon pa.

After that scene ay hinatid niya ko papuntang classroom namin. Hindi ko na lang pinansin ’yung mga matang nakatingin sa ’min and deretsong naupo sa desk ko.

The discussion went smooth and our adviser remind us regarding sa Christmas Party. We are now in mall to buy gifts for exchange gifts, next week na kasi ang Christmas Party. I sighed heavily, ang bilis lumipas ng oras.

Habang nagtitingin kami ng pang-regalo, Louis turn her gazed at me and asked. “Where did you buy your skirts?”

Napatingin ako sa skirts ko bago binalik ang tingin ko sa kanya. I smiled. “Uh, at Zara. And it also comes from different colors. You should buy, I swear. It’s worth it.”

After she nodded, binili na namin ’yung regalo na ibibigay namin for exchange gifts. We went directly to Zara after finishing our gift shopping before heading to the resto for dinner.

“We went to mall kanina, bumili kami nina Claire ng pang-exchange gifts. How ’bout you, meron kayong Christmas Party?” I asked Zeyn through video call. I’m on the top of my bed using my MacBook because my phone is charging.

“Oo naman! ’Kala mo sa ’min, hindi nagpapasko?” he said and chuckled. I rolled my eyes na lang because of his answer. Whatever!

He’s wearing black boxer shorts and nothing on top. He sat on the chair while wiping his hair using the white towel, kakatapos lang kasi niyang maligo. I think he’s using his PC because I clearly saw his bed in the background. He smiled at me after doing his thing. Pa-cute!

“Nga pala, bukas after ng klase namin deretso kami sa game nila Troy. Magba-basketball kami kalaban sina Liam. Okay lang naman sa’yo, ’di ba?” he said after niyang magpa-cute. I nodded as approval. To be honest, hindi naman niya kailangang magpaalam sa ’kin ’cause he’s courting me palang naman. But in all fairness, kinilig ako.

“What time? Maybe I can watch.” I uttered.

“Alas tres ng hapon. Ano pwede ka?”

I checked my schedule first before answering him. But sad to say na meron pala kaming quiz sa last subject namin which is five pm, so definitely I’m not free tomorrow. I heaved a deep sigh. Sayang naman.

I looked at him and shook my head. “Next time na lang, love. Pero sayang at nandon yata si Gab bukas, ’yung jowa ni Liam. Ginagaso nga ako ng gago; umatras na daw kami at masasayang lang ’yung pusta namin. Tarantadong tunay, eh”

He said that laughing before he shooked his head. They seems really close. Well, I heard the rumor nga na maharot daw si Gab but not in malande way. Kumbaga, her attitude is natural since birth. I hope makapag-usap kami someday because she really seems nice. Also, she’s one of the beautiful Trans Woman in school.

Days had passed and Christmas Party came. Since our school required us to wear red clothes, I’m wearing now a red silk satin backless top and black jeans. Then I choose to bring one of my Chanel bag.

While walking downstairs, my phone beeped kaya napatingin ako sa nag-messages. It was Zeyn, he messages me na he’s waiting for me sa gate. I shooked my head while chuckling. Seryoso talaga siya sa panliligaw sa ’kin. My body shivered because of that thought. Geez!

When I arrived in school, I saw him standing near the school gate. Some students are gazing him because he really stunning in that red button-down shirts and blacks shorts. He also wearing his sneakers, but I think the most attractive to him is his tattoo. Shit!

“Hi!” I greeted him. He smiled at me before he encircled his arm on my waist. Tahimik lang naman kaming naglakad papuntang classroom namin. I thanked him ng marating namin ’yung classroom.

He scanned me from head to foot, then he tsked after that. “Kapag nilamig ka dahil sa suot mo i-text mo lang ako. Meron akong jacket sa locker ko.”

I smiled and nodded.

“Okay, noted.”

He kissed my forehead first before he walked towards their classroom. A minute later all my friends came and saktong nag-umpisa ’yung program. Hindi ako sumali sa unang laro since nakakahilo siya.

The program went smooth and we all looked happy dahil sa mga palaro ni Miss Raiza. This is the last  game before the exchange gifts. Our adviser is infront explaining the mechanics of the game. We all quietly listening to her naman.

“So, the game is by pair, girl and boy. Meron tayong talong dito which is the most important in this game. Itatali natin ’yung talong sa bewang ng mga lalaki habang yung mga babae naman ay nakaluhod sa harapan ng mga lalaki. Kung kay ninong talong ang pinakamalata after ten minutes ang siyang mananalo.” Miss explained. Napatakip ako ng bibig while the boys are howling because of the excitement. Shit!

Miss Raiza chooses the boys and ’yung boys naman ang pipili ng magiging partner nila. Bawal tumanggi and it’s okay din naman if their partner are Trans or Cis Woman and Femme Gay. Since napili si Primo and Edward kami ni Louis ang napili nilang partner. These assholes!

’“Yung mga girls na naka-skirt maglagay na lang ng sapin sa tuhod para hindi mangitim.” Miss Raiza said. I don’t mind her since I’m wearing jeans. Nakangisi naman sa ’kin si Primo kaya inirapan ko siya. Jerk!

The game started and inumpisahan ko ng pigain ’yung egg plant. The boys are moaning habang nakalagay sa likod ng ulo nila ’yung kamay nila. I shooked my head while giggling. ’Yung mga iba naman naming classmate ay tawanan nang tawanan.

I continue squeezing the egg plant until natapos ’yung ten minutes. ’Yung malantod naming classmate ang nanalo dahil todo bigay siya. Napailing nalang ako sa mga kantyawan ng mga lalaki. Tsk!

“Akala ko ba magaling kang pumiga ng talong.” Primo uttered and smiled. I rolled my eyes at him before I pinched his waist. Bastos!!

“Pervert!” I yelled but tinawanan lang niya ’ko.

After changing our gifts, we thanked Miss Raiza before we went out of classroom. Saktong paglabas namin ay nakita ko si Zeyn na nakatayo sa tapat ng room namin.

Mukhang hindi siya napansin nina Claire dahil deretso lang silang naglakad habang ako ay dumiretso sa pwesto ni Zeyn. I smiled nang makalapit ako sa kanya.

“What are doing here? Tapos na din program niyo?” I asked. He nodded first before he pulled me in his chest, hugging me tightly. Oh!

“Payakap lang. Napagod ako, eh. Kailangan kong mag-recharge.” he whispered. Gumanti ako ng yakap dahil pakiramdam ko ay matutumba ko sa bigat niya. My brows furrowed. Why mabigat siya, eh, ang payat naman niya. Tsk!

Tumagal ng ilang segundo bago siya humiwalay sa yakap at ngumiti sa akin. I smiled also because nakakahawa ’yung ngiti niya.

“May ibibigay ako sa’yo.” he uttered and dumukot sa bulsa ng shorts niya. After that, I saw the box his holding. He opened it and nilabas ’yung gold necklace na letter ‘Z’ ang pendant.

Pinatalikod niya ’ko para maisuot iyon sa akin. Gosh! Nang maisuot na niya ay humarap ako sa kanya na nang gigilid ang luha. I rolled my eyes but he just chuckled. Because he laughed, napatitig ako sa suot-suot niyang necklace, it was a silver necklace with letter ‘R’ pendant. Napatakip ako sa bibig ko. These our initials! Shit!

Tumitig naman siya sa leeg ko ng seryoso.

“Bagay sa’yo ’yung kwintas pero sa tingin ko mas bagay pa rin ’yung kamay ko sa leeg mo. Ano sa tingin mo, love? Hmm…” he whispered that gave shivered down my spine… I think he’s right.

Chapter 10

“Diretso uwi ka na ba o may pupuntahan ka pang iba?” Zeyn asked me while we were walking in the hallway. We’re on our way to the parking lot and to be honest, I really don’t know how to answer his question.

“Why?!” I said frowning. He looked at me naman before he open his mouth.

“Kung hindi ka pa uuwi at wala kang ibang lakad, papasama sana ’ko sayong mag-grocery para sa Noche Buena namin.” he said. Halos manlaki ang mata ko sa mangha ng dahil sa sinabi niya. Omygosh! Marunong siyang mag-grocery?! A man like him?! Gosh!

“Marunong kang mag-grocery?! It’s rare, huh! Usually sa guy ay hindi marunong mag-grocery.” namamangha ko talagang sabi. I felt that I’m smiling from ear to ear because I’m so amazed at him.

“Sa mga mayayamang lalaki at yung mga may kasamang babae sa bahay siguro oo, pero sa katulad ko na walang babae sa bahay ay kailangan alam ko yung mga gantong bagay. Bakit, na-turn off ka ba sa ’kin?” he said. And ramdam ko ’yong seriousness sa huli niyang sinabi.

“Uhm, no! Of course not. Bakit naman ako mate-turn off, eh, manghang-mangha nga ako sa guy na marunong mag-grocery.” I said then I showed him my whole teeth. Smiling like crazy a girl. Napailing at napangiti siya at the same time. Gwapo!

“Tsk! Halika na nga!”

I’m here in passenger seat and dala-dala niya pala ’yung kotse nila since balak nga talaga niyang mag-grocery after the Christmas Party. Speaking off, I saw the IG story of Louis and she’s with her cousin, they’re planning to drink somewhere in BGC. I messages Claire naman and she told me na may dinner date daw siya with her elem classmate. Now I know why hindi sila nag-aya na umalis because they have other errands.

“What’s your plan on Christmas?” I asked him para ma-break yung silence, ang tahimik kasi namin kanina pa. He just seriously driving, parang ang lalim nang iniisip.

“Sa bahay lang siguro. Hindi naman kami umaalis katulad ng iba.” he answered then give me a glance. “Kayo ng pamilya mo? ’Di ba uso sa mga mayayaman ’yung magpupunta ng ibang bansa kapag magpapasko.”

“Before… we used to go in New York or in LA but when my Dad and Mom started to have a misunderstanding… always na lang kaming sa house nagse-celebrate.” I said, smiling. He looked at me with full of sympathy. Parang sinasabi ng tingin niya na wag akong malungkot, kaya I smiled.

Pagpasok namin ng mall ay kumuha agad siya ng push cart saka niya tinulak, napatingin naman ako sa kanya ng hinawakan niya ako bigla sa bewang at itinabi sa kanya. I don’t why I’m blushing, maybe because I felt na para kaming mag-asawa na kailangan mag-groceries para sa mga kakainin namin. I sighed! Okay, stop hallucinating, bitch!

I’m intently staring at him while doing his business. Naa-amaze kasi talaga ’ko sa itsura niya now because after he looked at the paper his holding, mabilis niya namang kukunin ’yung specific item na ’yon then he put it on push cart. He’s definitely a husband material.

“Ouch!” I groaned when the cute little boy accidentally bump me. Buti na lang nahawakan ko ’yung likod ng ulo niya dahil kung hindi ay matutumba siya sa floor.

The cute little boy looked at me and pout his lips. “I’m sorry, Ate Ganda. Hindi ko po sadya, I’m hiding po kasi kay Ate Lucy. Do you know her po? She’s our maid.”

I smiled and shooked my head. Akmang magsasalita na ’ko ng unahan ako ni Zeyn. “Hey, bata! Sa susunod wag kang takbo nang takbo. Nakabangga ka tuloy. Tsk!”

The cute little boy pouted his lips while nodding his head. He looked a typical kid na napagalitan ng Daddy or Mommy. Mukhang naawa din si Zeyn sa itsura ’nong bata so he kneel para magpatay sila ng laki.

Zeyn talked to the kid and a minute after ay tumatawa na ’yung bata. Napatagal din ang titig ko sa kanilang dalawa and they look cute, para silang mag-daddy. Napailing at napatawa ako sa naisip.

The cute little kid bid his goodbye at us and I was shook ng halikan niya ko sa pisngi, even Zeyn was too stunned to speak. Napatawa ako habang si Zeyn ay napailing.

“Nasaktan kaba?” he suddenly asked. My forehead creased because of his question.

“Huh?!”

“Nasaktan ka ba ka ko? Patingin nga ako.” he uttered and sabay hila sa katawan ko. He examined my body and don ko na lang na-realize bigla ng tanungin niya ’ko kung hindi ba matigas ’yung ulo ng bata. “Sigurado ka walang masakit sa ’yo?”

I chuckled na nagpakunot sa noo niya. “You’re overreacting, Mr. Mercado. The kid just accidentally bumped me, hindi naman siya car or anything para magkaroon ako ng malalang galos.”

“Nag-aalala lang ako. Tsk!”

I shook my head while chuckling then we continue buying groceries na. Nagtagal pa kami ng ilang minuto hanggang sa natapos na nga kami sa pagbili ng mga kailangan nila. Hindi naman masyadong mahaba ang pila kaya hindi naman ako nainip, hanggang sa turn na namin.

The cashier kept glancing at Zeyn and I don’t know why I feel irritated. Maybe because Zeyn is smiling at her. I rolled my eyes after watching them.

“Seven thousand four hundred fifty seven po, Sir.” the cashier said, trying to be cute in front of Zeyn. Kinuha naman ni Zeyn sa wallet niya ’yung cash then inabot sa cashier. Nakangiti namang tumango ’yung cashier. “I received eight thousand.”

I watched the movement of cashier and talagang she kept glancing at Zeyn, then saka ilalagay ’yung konting hibla ng hair niya sa likod ng ear niya. I rolled my eyes in frustration. Flirt!

Akmang ibibigay na niya kay Zeyn ’yung change when I encircled my arms on Zeyn’s waist and asked seductively. “Do you know how to cook, right? Parang gusto ko kasing sa inyo mag-dinner tonight.”

His brows furrowed but eventually he slighty nodded his head. I smiled then looked at the cashier, smirking. Ako na din ang kumuha ng sukli and saka inabot kay Zeyn.

“Here’s you change, Sir.” I said, mocking. Nanlaki naman ’yung mata niya then saka tumingin sa cashier, and then binalik ulit ’yung tingin sa ’kin. I arched my left brows but the jerk just chuckled. Asshole!

Naglakad kami hanggang parking lot ng hindi ko siya kinakausap. Tahimik lang akong tumutok sa cellphone ko. Argh! Naiinis din talaga ko minsan sa sarili ko. Fucking mood swings!

“Hey, anong problema mo? Bakit ang tahimik mo?” he asked. Nakasakay na kami ngayon sa loob ng kotse and I don’t know where the hell we are. I’m not familiar, eh.

“Ask your cashier. Jerk!” I said and rolled my eyes. Tumawa lang naman siya ng parang crazy but I admit na gwapo pa rin siya. Shit! I’m insane.

“Nagselos pa nga!” he said, chuckling.

I don’t mind him hanggang sa nakarating kami sa bahay nila. Their house is a two story house and super maaliwalas dahil light yung painting ng wall. Pagpasok namin ay sumalubong sa amin ’yung kapatid niyang nakaupo sa couch while watching television. When his brother noticed are presence, he stood up and smiled at us. He’s the guy na nakahuli sa ’min sa museleo nila. Omygosh, that’s so embarrassing!

“Magbihis ka nga ’don!” Zeyn said, seriously. Napatingin naman ako sa suot ng kapatid niya and he just wearing a boxer shorts and nothing on top.

“Bakit? Anong masama sa suot ko?” nagtatakang tanong nito and saka nagkibit ng balikat.

“Basta magpalit ka.” madiing sagot ni Zeyn. I looked at him and I know that he is fucking serious. What’s wrong nga ba sa suot ng younger brother niya?! I sighed.

Walang nagawa ’yung kapatid niya kung hindi sundin siya and he guided me naman to seat on their couch.

“Magbibihis lang ako sandali ’tas magluluto na ’ko ng hapunan natin. Hintayin mo ’ko dito, huh.” he said and I nodded then he kissed me on my forehead. He walked upstairs kaya wala akong kasama dito sa couch, while waiting naglaro lang ako sa phone ko.

A minute after bumaba na si Zeyn and dumiretso kaming dalawa sa kitchen. I watched him cooking the dinner and hindi ko talaga maiwasan ang humanga and kiligin at the same time. His future wife is so lucky to have him. What a perfect husband. I smiled.

Nang matapos na siyang magluto. We went to their dinning table and kumain na. Pinasabay na din namin ’yung younger brother niya but mukhang masasapak siya ni Zeyn because he kept asking me about boys na nagkagusto sa ’kin. If kilala ko daw ba si ganito or ganyan. Natatawa na lang ako kapag tinitingnan siya ni Zeyn ng masama. But to be honest they look cute.

We all looked to Zeyn’s phone ng tumunog iyon. Then I saw on the screen that his father is calling, tumingin siya sa ’kin and nag-sign na sasagutin niya lang ’yung tawag. I nodded naman. Naglakad naman siya palabas ng kusina ang sakto na halos kakatapos lang namin kumain kaya ako na ang nagpresinta na maghugas ng pinagkainan namin.

“Hoy, sigurado ka bang marunong kang maghugas ng pinggan?” Zack asked while chuckling. I rolled my eyes at him and sighed.

“Yes. Anong tingin mo sa ’kin, PWD? I can wash the dishes, ’no!” I said and rolled my eyes again. Tumawa lang naman siya and saka nagkibit ng balikat.

I started to wash the dishes but the jerk stayed beside me. Hinayaan ko na lang but a minute later ay nag-umpisa na naman siyang umepal and sinabing siya na daw ang magbabanlaw ng mga sinabon ko. Hinayaan ko na lang siya kesa mangulit pa. He just like his brother, parehong may saltik.

“Omgygosh! Kadiri!” I shouted because pinahid niya sa mukha ko ’yung tubig sa kamay niya. It’s marumi kaya. Gross!

He chuckeld. “Gago, ang cute mong mag-inarte. Hindi na ’ko nagtataka na nagustuhan ka ni Kuya and even my other classmates.”

I rolled my eyes dahil iyan na naman siya sa panghaharot niya. But napatili na naman ako ng kilitiin niya ’ko sa waist ko. And the jerk laughed his ass loud. Shit!

“You assh—”

“Reese!!”

Pareho kaming nagulat ni Zack dahil sa lalaking malakas na tumawag sa pangalan ko. I slowly turned my face to him and I saw his eyes are looking at us intenly. Mas lalong nagpakaba ng puso ko ay ang mga panga niyang umigting na alaka mo ay matatanggal dahil sa tigas ng panggalaw nito. Omygosh!

“Ze—”

“Akyat sa taas! Pangalawa sa dulo ’yung kwarto ko, kaliwang banda. Ako na ang tatapos niyang hugasin.” He said and saka naglakad papalapit sa amin. Wala naman akong nagawa kung hindi ang sundin siya. But bago pa man ako makaakyat sa taas ay narinig ko ’yung huling sinabi niya. “Tangina mo, Zack, puputulin ko ’yang kamay mo at kung saan saan nakakarating!”

Okay, he’s possessive nga. In his room wala naman kaming ibang ginawa kung hindi ang manuod ng movie… and nag make-out din pala, ramdam ko ’yung selos sa mga halik niya that night.

Days had passed and ’nong Christmas Eve nagpahanda lang si Mommy ng fancy dinner sa garden namin and buti naman ay umuwi sila ni Daddy. Since kinasanayan na ng family namin na hintayin ang 12 midnight, we waited before kaming nagbigayan ng mga Christmas gift. I received designer bag and cash from Mommy while kay Daddy naman is cash and five different scents from designer brand also, I love perfume kasi. Then jewelry set naman ang binigay sa ’kin ni Rei. My gifts from them naman is jewelries kay Mommy, watch kay Daddy, then kikay kit kay Rei but it’s from luxury brands.

Nong mismong Christmas ay we went to Manila lang para dalawin ’yung mga relatives namin sa side ni Mommy, Kuya Kierr was also there. We played games and nanalo pa ’ko ng five thousands kaya ang rami ko ng cash. I chuckled.

Before mag New Year ay nagkita kami ni Zeyn, we ate dinner sa kilalang fancy restaurant here sa Bulacan and ’nong una nga ay nahihiya siya because he’s not used to eat daw sa mga ganong kasosyal na resto but in the end masaya lang kaming kumain. Then after that ay nagkita kita naman kami nina Claire and Louis, nag shopping lang kami ng mga damit, skin care, HRT, and everything na pampaarte.

New Year’s Eve came and nandito kami ni Rei sa may veranda ng room ko. Since we were kid dito na talaga kaming dalawa nanunuod ng fireworks display then nasa garden naman sina Mommy and Daddy kasama sina Manang Ine, Ate Sarah and Mang Andoy. Kanina pa rin kami umiinom ni Rei but its just wine so hindi naman masyadong nakakalasing. Ilang segundo na lang ay New Year na kaya nag countdown na kami.

“In 3, 2, 1… Happy New Year!” we said in chorus and sobrang ingay talaga dito sa subdivision kapag New Year. I hope this year is the better year for all.

“Happy New Year, Ate.” Rei greeted me and I greeted her back. Binati niya din si Zeyn dahil magkausap kami ngayong dalawa through video call. Sinalubong naming dalawa ang New Year ng magkasama, although virtual lang but at least, right?

[Happy New Year.] he said. Nangungusap na ’yung mga mata niya dahil siguro sa alak. I smiled and greeted him.

“Happy New Year.” I said and kissed him through my screen. He smirked and bit his lower lip, seductively. Gwapo!

[Lasing kana?] he asked. I shook my head and pinakita sa kanya ’yung basong hawak ko. He nodded naman. [Ako kasi nahihilo na, naka-isang Alfonso na kaming dalawa ni Zack.] he added, chuckling. I told him na wag masyadong magpakalasing.

Napatingin naman ako bigla sa fireworks display dahil sobrang ganda talaga nila sa langit. Then suddenly I realized ’yung mga kasabihan ng mga matatanda. I faced Zeyn and smiled.

“Hey, do you really believe in saying na kung sino daw kasama mo sa pagsalubong ng bagong taon, siya daw ang makakasama mo sa buong taon? So, it means na one year lang taong magka-video call?” I said and chuckled. He smirked then saka naging malumanay ang tingin sa akin.

[Eh di gawan natin ng paraan.] he said while looking at me intently. His eyes are stunning, and I don’t why I’m so captivated to them. [Then let’s live in together para buong taon tayong magkasama… let’s fucking live in, love.] He said that made my jaw dropped.

Chapter 11

[Hey, joke lang. Ba’t naman natahimik ka dyan? Love, mahina ba net niyo?] he said after kong matulala dahil sa sinabi niyang mag-live in na kami. I sighed heavily. Shit!

“Uh… I’m sorry nag internet connection kasi. What were you saying nga?” I said and smiled. He shook his head and smiled. He raised his shot glass and drink it.

[Nga pala, balak kong magpadagdag ng tattoo bago mag-umpisa ulit ’yung klase. Samahan mo ’ko, huh!] he said while his eyes are getting puffier. What beautiful eyes of him.

“Yeah, sure.” I said and nodded.

After we talked, I went downstairs para batiin sila Mommy and Daddy ng Happy New Year. I also greeted Manang Ine, Mang Andoy, and Ate Sarah. After that ay nag wash lang ako ng face before I went to sleep.

Tomorrow morning when I open my eyes, I hear a noise outside my room and since I can see the garden through my window, I walk towards there to see what the commotions are out there, then I see a couple of people. There’s an organizer, caterer, glam team of my Mom, and other staff for the event. My forehead creased because of what I saw. What exactly is happening?!

I walked pabalik sa bed and then kinuha ko ’yung phone ko. I texted Rei what is happening outside and she replied na may ganap daw because of Mommy’s achievement. Well, she won Best Director in Gawad Urian nga pala and her movie is a blockbuster as well.

I went to my bathroom and did my morning routine. After that I went downstairs wearing my pajamas pa rin. Nang makababa, I saw Manang Ine and other maids na sobrang busy in the kitchen. Naglakad ako papalapit sa kanila and agad naman nila ’kong pinaghanda ng breakfast.

“Thank you po, Manang.” I said after ibaba ni Manang Ine ’yung food ko sa table. “Anyway, anong oras daw po dadating ’yung mga bisita ni Mommy?”

“Gabi pa yata, hija. Pinasasabi nga din pala ni Mommy mo na maaga daw kayong gumayak at ipapakilala nila kayo sa mga bisita. Lalo na ikaw, at marami daw mga magpupuntang mga businessman and businesswoman na naghahanap ng bagong mukha para maging model sa mga produkto nila.” mahabang sabi ni Manang and naglakad na paalis.

I sighed in disbelief because we’re here na naman sa ganitong set-up ni Mommy. She always do this everytime na may pumupuntang mga tao sa bahay, we always need to look presentable in her collegues. After I ate breakfast, bumalik ako sa kwarto para manuod ng series sa Netflix. Ilang hours pa naman bago mag start ang event.

I’m in the middle of watching the series when my phone beeps and it’s notification from Instagram. I checked my phone and it was Zeyn who messaged me.

_zeyem:

hey love, pupunta kaming airport mamaya para sunduin sila papa at kuya, gusto mong sumama?

ris:

thanks but no thanks, may event kasi ngayon sa bahay para sa achievements ni mommy, just say hi to tito na lang, take care.

_zeyem:

oh sige, pakisabi din kay tita na congratulations sabi kamo ng soon to be son in law niya hahahaha.

I rolled my eyes and chuckled at the same time. This jerk talaga! After that, I told him na wag munang magulo because I’m watching a series on Netflix but the jerk teased me pa muna bago tumigil. After watching three episodes, sumakit ’yung eyes ko and parang bigla akong inantok kaya agad kong ni-shut down ’yung laptop para makatulog ako ng maayos.

“Reese… Reese… Beh, gising na, pinagigising ka na ni Madame.” that’s what I heard ng magkamalay ako after I nap. I looked at the wall clock to see what time it was and then my eyes got bigger when I saw na malapit ng mag-six. Shit!

“Omygosh! Thank you Ate Sarah for waking me up. I’ll take a bath na. Shit!” I said while I’m running fast towards my bathroom. After I took a bath, I saw a note sa isang red flowy dress na handwritten mismo ni Mommy. It says na iyon daw ang gusto niyang suotin ko since it’s from a designer brand. I partnered it na lang din siguro sa oran sandals ko from Hermés.

My gaze went to my door when I heard that someone was knocking. I shouted ‘it’s open’ kaya agad namang bumukas ’yung pintuan, then bumungad sa akin ang nakangiting mukha ni Ms. Nick, she’s my mom’s make up artist and she’s one of the indemand make-up artists nowadays. And take note, she’s also from the rainbow community because she’s a femme gay.

“Hi, bb girl.” she greeted, smiling. She walked towards my spot then we did beso ng magkalapit kaming dalawa.

“Hello, Ms. Nick. What brings you here?” I asked, frowning. She just smiled bago ako ni-guide towards my vanity mirror. I have two vanity mirrors here kasi sa room ko, the one is in beside my bed then the other one is inside my walk-in closet. Oh, I got it! Maybe my mom wants Ms. Nick to do my face tonight. I sighed.

“Pinapunta ako ni Madame dito para ayusan ka.” Ms. Nick said habang magkatinginan kami sa harap ng salamin. I nodded since nakaupo naman ako sa vanity chair ko and I’m also wearing my bathrobe.

Hinanda na ni Ms. Nick ’yung mga things niya na gagamitin namin and while doing that she kept asking me questions para maging light ’yung mood namin both. I answered lang ’yung alam kong hindi masyadong personal na tanong.

My make-up isn’t a whole set since hindi naman bongga ’yung event and she curls my hair lang. Since my dress is color red, red lipstick din ang ni-apply niya to match my outfit. And we’re done.

“Perfect face! Pang artista talaga ang ganda at kutis.” Ms. Nick said and I just smiled. Nahihiya kasi talaga ko everytime na sinasabing pang artista ’yung ganda ko. I mean, I know it’s a compliment but hindi ko lang talaga maiwasan ang ma-awkward-an sometimes.

“Thanks po, Ms. Nick.” I said and smiled.

“You’re welcome, hija. Mauna na ’ko sa ibaba, I’ll see you there. Bye!” She uttered and kissed my left cheek. After she went out of my room, I took my jewelry box then wore my jewelry set that Daddy gifted to me.

I usually wear jewelries to spice up my outfit. Then lastly, I wear my favorite scent which is the Baccarat Rouge 540 by Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Just two spritz of it then you’re ready to go, and it really last all day.

When I went downstairs, I walked straight to our garden then I saw a lot of people. Walang bago, same faces na nakikita ko since when I was a kid. Dumiretso ko sa bakanteng upuan kung saan nakaupo si Rei and Kuya Kierr. They’re busy talking to each other kaya nagulat pa sila ng batiin ko sila. We did beso lang ni Kuya Kierr then nag catch up lang sa ganap nitong Christmas and New Year, and the jerk said pa na may pinutukan daw siya. So gross!

We’re in the middle of talking something when someone spoke using the microphone so we all faced him. It’s my mom assisstant and binati niya lang si Mommy ng congratulations and pinapunta sa harap together with Dad, buti naman pala nandito siya. I sighed.

After mag-speech ni Mommy pinakuha na niya kami ng pagkain sa harap and sabay-sabay kaming kumain nina Rei and Kuya Kierr. Sina Tita Kiera and Tito Ken ay susunod na lang daw here since may inaasikaso pang mahalagang bagay si Tito Ken.

“Reese, Rei, your Tita Clara is here.” pareho kaming napatingin kay Mommy matapos niyang sabihin iyon and mabilis akong napainom ng tubig when I saw the guy beside Tita Clara.

“Hello po.” Rei and I greeted. Bumeso naman si Tita Clara samin and even Kuya Kierr cheeks kissed her. After she kissed our cheeks ay bigla ng natahimik ’yung atmosphere kaya biglang nagsalita si Kuya Kierr.

“Hey, man. Looking good, huh!” he said to Clarence while nodding. The latter just smiled at him and glance at me immediately. Shit!

“Uhm, son. Maybe here na lang us maupo since nandito naman sila Reese and Kierr. Wait me here  kukuha lang ako ng pagkain.” Tita Clara said and halos malagutan ako ng hininga ng tumango siya kay Mommy niya. My forehead creased, before halos iwasan niya ’ko and now he’s acting na he’s okay with anything. I rolled my eyes.

“You can sit here sa tabi ni Reese. Sasamahan ko lang si Mommy mo kumuha ng pagkain. Let’s go.” Mommy said bago sila naglakad ni Tita Clara paalis. Napahawak tuloy ako bigla sa kamay ni Rei. Shit!

“Hi.” he greeted using his baritone voice kaya halos manlaki ang mata ko bago napatingin sa kanya. He shyly smiled at me kaya binigyan ko naman siya ng tipid na ngiti.

After two years ay ngayon ko lang ulit natingnan siya ng ganito kalapit and after two years ngayon lang niya ’ko binati ng ganito. I don’t know why but I feel awkward. But then again, his looks turns to binata look and I admit na mas lalo siyang gum’wapo.

“Uhm, how are you? It’s been two years.” he suddenly uttered. If I’m still the Reese I used to know, baka nanggilid na ang mga hula ko now but I’m not that weak anymore. He made me stronger.

“Yeah, it’s been two years. I’m doing good.” I said and gave him a smile. He just nodded and fixed his tuxedo.

“Good to hear that. By the way, I just want to say that… you’re still beautiful and always stunning.” he said and took the glass of water infront of him, mabilis naman niyang ininom iyon. It made me speechless kaya hindi na ’ko nakapagsalita pa. And thank you because Tita Clara came and kumain na sila ni Clarence.

Past eleven o’clock ng matapos ang event sa house. Then I received a lot of offer sa mga kilalang businessman and woman para maging ambassador ng mga products na binebenta nila.

I’m now wearing my pajamas while holding my phone. Hindi ako nagbukas ng WiFi since nag-start ang event and ngayon ko lang din i-uupdate si Zeyn about what happened earlier.

My eyes widened because my direct message on Instagram is bombarded because of Zeyn messages. Ang dami niyang sinend na picture and videos of me and Clarence. I don’t know but agad akong napasandal sa headoard ng bed ko when I saw my videos with Clarence.

This is us earlier and some content creator on Tiktok are doing content about our videos. Then I also read a lot of comments from netizens, merong negative but mas madami ang positive comment. What the fúck?!

_zeyem:

sent a video

_zeyem:

sent a photo

_zeyem:

kaya pala hindi ka sumama kasi nandyan ’yung ex mo! sweet niyo tas bagay nga kayo gaya ng sabi nang iba.

_zeyem:

liked zone

I chuckled because of the like emoji. I know that he’s mad but hindi ko lang mapigilan na ma-cute-an sa way ng pag-message niya. I tried to call him but he didn’t answer my call, I don’t know if offline siya or sinasadya niyang hindi sagutin because he’s mad. I rolled my eyes.

I waited for him to reply but inabot ako nang alas-dose but even seen or emoji na response is wala, so I decided na kausapin na lang siya bukas ng maaga kasi ayokong mapuyat sa wala. I heaved a deep sigh, like what the heck?!

Days had passed and two days before the class will resume. Nagkaayos naman agad kami ni Zeyn kinabukasan ’nong nagselos siya because of Clarence and he told me na sinadya niyang matulog ng maaga because he really pissed that time. But now, he mad na naman ’cause may usapan kami na sasamahan ko siya na magpa-tattoo but Louis and Primo are inviting me to go with them, they’re planning to add their tattoo as well.

The reason why kaya ako pumayag na sa kanila sumama is madalang ko na lang sila makasama especially this Christmas break. I’m wearing white tube top and denim short shorts, then I wore my white two-strap sandals from Birkenstock.

Zeyn still not answering my call or my messages kaya hinayaan ko na lang muna siya. When I went out saktong pag-park ng car ni Primo sa harap ng gate namin.

Biniro pa ’ko ni Louis about sa suot ko, I don’t mind her and directly sat on the back seat ’cause she’s sitting at the passenger seat. I’m quietly sitting at the back and I’m answering some basic question na tinatanong nila.

After few minutes we arrived sa shop ng tattoo artist namin. Here where I got my first tattoo and definitely the upcoming tattoo pa. Nang maayos ng makapag-park si Primo ay sabay-sabay kaming naglakad papasok.

“Okay ka lang, girl?” Louis asked me. I gave her a smile while nodding my head.

“Yeah! You, are you ready to your third tattoo?” I muttered, smiling. Mabilis naman siyang tumango-tango kaya napangiti ako. She really looks excited. And I hope it will heal faster than her second tattoo, her second tattoo kasi is a little bit bigger than sa bagong ipapagawa niya.

Pag bukas ng pinto sa entrance ay dalawang parehas na nanlilisik na mata ang sumalubong sa ’min, and guess who, it’s Zeyn. Beside him is Troy who’s holding a can of beer. Dito din pala siya nagpapagawa ng tattoo niya.

He’s topless ’cause sa right side ng chest niya nilalagyan ng design. My gaze was drawn to his bottom, where his two legs were wide spread, causing me to take a deep breath. His bulge is very evident, and I know it’s huge because I felt it several times. His looks gave shiver on my body but I still managed to walk where my friends are.

They talking about the design so I excused myself para puntahan si Zeyn. I walked towards his spot and while walking I saw him that he’s staring at me intently, but ng makalapit sa kanya ay umigting lang ang panga niya. I sighed, he’s still mad.

“Hi,” I greeted. He did not response so I slightly smiled at Troy and he gave me shy smile. Tumalikod ako sa kanila at akmang maglalakad na pabalik kina Primo and Louis nang may humila sa braso ko. It hurts!

“Ouch!” I groaned.

“Saan ka pupunta?” he asked arrogantly kaya hindi agad ako nakasagot. But when I saw his face na waiting for my answer, I rolled my eyes in frustration. This jerk!

“Babalik ako sa pwesto nina Primo, you’re not talking to me naman, eh.” I said while arching my left brow. He, once again, clenched his jaw. Tsk!

“Upo. Dito ka uupo sa tabi ko.” he said dominantly. I take a deep breath and sat next to him. I felt that he encircle his arm on my shoulder after I sat next to him.

“Tangnamo! Bakod na bakod.” Troy said, chuckling. Nag-fúck you sign lang naman si Zeyn sa kanya and I rolled my eyes at them.

Naging tahimik naman na sila ng mag-umpisa na ulit yung pag-draw ng tattoo artist sa chest ni Zeyn. I’m quietly watching him and parang he used to do this. He looks relaxed.

My gaze went to Louis and Primo. Louis just winked at me while Primo gave me no emotion look. I mouthed ‘good luck’ to the both of them because their tattoo artist approached them to seat na.

Napabaling naman ulit ang tingin ko kay Zeyn ng haplusin niya ’yung left shoulder ko using his rough hand. I don’t mind him and looked to his chest, I don’t understand his new tattoo because is written in japanese alphabet. I looked at him.

“What’s the meaning of your tattoo?” I asked. He looked at me and smirked.

“Ito?! Pangalan mo ’to… sabi kasi nila ipa-tattoo mo daw ’yung taong gustong gusto mo ng hindi na makawala pa. Ngayon, alam mong wala ka ng kawala pa.” he said while not taking his eyes on me. And I know that he’s definitely the reason why my heart start to beat abnormally. Shit!

Chapter 12

“Nagkakausap na ulit kayo ni Clarence?” Louis asked. We’re here outside the tattoo shop because we’re waiting sa food na ni-order namin dahil nagutom sila, and sakto kakatapos lang ng session ni Louis. I bought na rin ng sakin at ng kay Zeyn.

Nanlalaki ang mata ko siyang tiningnan. “What?! Saan naman galing ’yang tanong mo. We’re not talking, ’no!”

“I saw a video kasi that you and him are getting back together. And I’m not gonna lie, you look good together.” she said rolling her eyes. I averted my gaze and act na may pinipindot sa phone ko. I really don’t want to talk about it. I sighed.

Hindi naman na din siya nagsalita or nag ask pa ng kung ano. We waited na lang sa Grab driver and sa food na ni-order namin para makakain na lang. After a couple of minutes, the foods arrived.

We walked through inside of the tattoo shop and inabot ko lang yung pagkain nina Zeyn and Arthur saka ako naglakad sa pwesto nina Louis para sa kanila sumabay kumain. Hindi naman ako nakarinig ng kung ano kay Zeyn but I felt that he’s staring at my back.

“Malapit na yung Birthday ni Tito Paulo, huh. So, what’s the ganap ba?” Louis asked Primo that still having his tattoo session because his tattoo is a bigger this time. The lad look at us with his hurting face.

“Ang alam ko magpaparty si Daddy with his collegues and relatives. Your parents naman is friend with my Dad so I think I don’t have to invite you both.” he answered and drink his beer beside him.

We both nodded lang ni Louis and continue eating our foods. I turned my gaze where Zeyn is, then our eyes locked. He really has good eyes that really captured everyone attention. He slightly smiled at me and so I did.

Nabalik naman ang tingin ko kay Louis when I feel that she’s staring at me intently. And when I faced her, I’m right. So, my forehead creased.

“What’s wrong with you?” I asked with my brows furrowed. She look shocked naman then she immediately fix her posture while rolling her eyes.

“Nothing, I’m just wondering bakit ka naka-jacket ngayon, eh, hindi ka nga nagsusuot ng t-shirt.” she said while ogling my outfit.

“Bakit masama ba? I just thought kanina na this jacket is matches my outfit.” I said and then rolled my eyes. But the truth is, kay Zeyn itong jacket and pinasuot nya lang sakin kanina because he doesn’t want me to show too much skin.

“Whatever! But anyway, shot us after here, huh. Mag-chat na din ako sa GC nating anim para maaya na din sila. Tagal na ’nong last nating inom, eh.” Louis said and I just nodded.

Tinapos na namin ang pagkain at maya-maya lang ay natapos na din si Primo sa tattoo session niya and sabay pa sila ni Arthur na tumayo. Two tattoo yata ang pinagawa niya in just one sit. Unbelievable.

After they paid, I roamed my eyes and I didn’t see Zeyn, baka nauna na siyang lumabas. But hindi ko napansin man lang. I took my phone inside my pocket then I immediately texted Zeyn, asking where is he. I sighed when he replied na nasa parking lot na daw siya. This asshole, bigla-bigla na lang nawawala.

“Let’s go?” Primo asked us and we nodded. We walked to the parking lot then I saw Zeyn sitting on his motorcycle. Nagkatinginan kami at hindi nagbitaw iyon hanggang sa makalapit kami sa gawi niya where Primo’s car is beside him.

“Tara na?” he said kaya napatingin ’yung dalawang kaibigan ko sa ’min habang nakaka-kunot ang mga noo. I sighed before began to speak.

“Uhm, I’m sorry. They’re planning to drink kasi and I already said yes kaya hindi ako makakasabay sayong umuwi this time. Just messag—”

“Tara na.” he cut me off that’s why hindi ko na natapos yung sasabihin ko. My forehead creased then he averted his gaze while clenching his jaw.

“But—”

“Piliin mo naman ako kahit ngayon lang. Tara na… please.” he sounds desperate kaya wala na ’kong nagawa kung hindi ang tumango. I faced my friends and I saw in their faces that they still wondering what is happening.

“I’m sorry, guys. I’ll make bawi na lang. I just had to put him first. I hope you both understand.” I said and kissed their cheeks.

“Maiintindihan namin kung ipapatindi mo sa ’min kung ano ’yung nangyayari.” seryoso at kunot noo pa rin na sabi ni Primo. I take a deep breath and sighed.

“I will, but next time na. I really have to go. Bye, guys! Love you both.” I said then rode infront of Zeyn. Hindi naman pala namin kasabay si Arthur dahil may dala pala siyang sariling sasakyan. Pagkasay na pagkasakay ko ay mabilis na pinaharurot ni Zeyn ’yung motor niya. Jerk!

Days had passed and the class already started. Today is Friday and our PE day. We are here in gym just to play badminton. Pinabayaan na lang kami ng teacher namin na maglaro, basta you bring your own rocket ay may grade kana.

“Ugh! Kapagod!” sambit ni Louis bago kami naupo sa bench ng gym and I sat next to her. I take a deep breath dahil napagod din talaga ko.

“Oh gosh! I forgot my tumbler pala. I’m thirsty pa naman.” I said and rolled my eyes in frustration. Napatingin naman sina Louis and Claire sakin saka nag make face. ’Yung boys kasi is still playing kahit they all sweating na.

“Let’s buy na lang sa cafeteria.” aya nilang dalawa so I immediately stood up.

“Para sa’yo.” biglang may nag abot sakin ng tubig kaya sabay-sabay kaming tatlong napatingin sa lalaking nag-aabot ng tubig. Then my eyes widen when I saw Zeyn infronf of me.

“Uh, thank you! But what are you doing here?” I asked and saka niya tinuro ’yung mga kaklase niyang nakaupo sa kabilang side ng bench dito sa gym.

“Wala kaming klase ngayon kaya naisipan namin na dito tumambay sa gym dahil may aircon.” he said and chuckled. Napangisi din ako sabay palo sa braso niya. Jerk talaga!

“Okay, I thought you skip class. Anyway—” hindi ko na natapos ’yung sasabihin ko ng tumikhim yung dalawa sa likod namin. I faced them and they’re raising their brows. I sighed.

“Sige na balik na ’ko ’don. Inumin mo na ’yan.” he said and gave me his smile. His gaze turned to Claire and Louis then he gave them a casual nodded. Tumango lang din naman ’yung dalawa.

Sinundan ko ng tingin si Zeyn hanggang sa makarating siya sa pwesto ng mga kaibigan niya. Then after looking him, I faced my bitches and gave them innocent look. I chuckled when they immediately rolled their eyes. Bitches!

After nang pangyayari sa parking lot ng tattoo shop ay nagpaliwanag ako sa kanila kung ano ang meron sa ’min ni Zeyn. But I did not told them na may pag-asang sagutin ko si Zeyn because I felt something special on him, and I can’t name it. And ang alam lang nila ay naglalaro lang ako kagaya ng paglalaro ko sa iba.

“Ang bilis nang oras at araw, gosh! The Valentines Day is getting near. Magkakasukatan na naman ng ganda. Charot!” Louis said. Napangisi kaming dalawa ni Claire ng dahil sa sinabi niya.

I’m currently fixing my things dahil uwian na. And I received a message from Rei saying that she want me to meet in parking lot. I replied ‘okay’ but I can’t help to feel nervous dahil minsan lang siya mag-text ng gano’ng bagay. I sighed.

After namin mag-ayos ng gamit ay lumabas na kami ng classroom at saka mabilis na naglakad papuntang parking lot. I’m really nervous kasi, I hope she’s fine.

Hinihingal kaming nakarating sa parking lot then my nervousness fade out when I saw my younger sister waving her hands at us. This bitch!

“You bitch! I thought something happened to you!” I said rolling my eyes, but the bitch just chuckled.

“Kalma ka lang kasi lagi, sizmars. Oh, maayos naman si sisteret. Sige na, uwi na kami. See you on Sunday.” Louis said na sinundan naman ng tawa ng iba naming kaibigan. Bumeso lang silang lahat before silang nagsi-alisan isa-isa.

“Bakit ba nakipagkita ka pa dito sa parking lot. And why you’re still here, by the way?” I asked with my brows furrowed. She take a deep breath before she began to speak.

“You will know later, Ate. But at the mean time, just  seat and relax.” she said, smiling. Wala naman akong nagawa kung hindi ang sundin siya. I really don’t know what’s her trip, basta ang sigurado ako lagot s’ya sakin kapag hindi maganda ’yung trip niya. Tsk!

After a couples of minutes ay may sasakyan na huminto sa harapan namin. At first ay hindi ko pinapansin because we’re waiting for Mang Andoy. But when I noticed that the car is familiar, ’don napaangat ang tingin ko. Then I saw Dad smiling at me.

“Hop in.” he said, smiling. Hindi agad ako nakareact because after a years ay ngayon lang ulit kami sinundo ni Daddy sa school.

“Ate, sakay na daw.” Rei said because I’m still not moving. I swallowed hard before I eventually sat in the passenger seat.

Tahimik lang akong nakaupo sa tabi ni Daddy habang si Rei ay madaldal na madaldal. That’s why she looked happy earlier. She knows that Dad will fetch us. Nagtatanong tanong naman din si Dad sa ’kin pero tipid ko lang siyang sinasagot. Nalaman ko din na balak niya palang isurprise kami ni Mommy today para sa isang dinner date ng family.

Sa isang restaurant kami huminto and nandon na din si Mommy. I think my clothes is appropriate naman sa napiling kainan nina Daddy, I’m still wearing my PE uniform kasi. I sighed.

“It’s been years since we ate dinner together. I hope you all having fun.” Dad said, smiling. Hindi ko sila tinapunan ng tingin dahil hindi ko alam ’yung sasabihin ko. I don’t know what to feel towards him. After all, he’s my Dad.

“Yes, Daddy, we’re having fun. Thank you for tonight.” Rei said. She looked so happy, and seeing her happy makes my heart happier.

“You’re welcome, baby.” Dad said. Bigla naman siyang napatingin sa gawi ko and his brows met. “Reese baby, why you’re not eating your food. You don’t like it ba? Tell me, what do you want?”

“Uh, no Dad, I liked it. Medyo busog lang po kaya dahan-dahan lang po akong kumakain.” I said. Pinakiramdaman naman niya ’yung sinabi ko bago dahan-dahang tumango.

After that ay tahimik na lang ako kumain. Silang dalawa ni Rei ay madalas mag-usap and nakikisali lang ako kapag may mga tanong lang sa ’kin si Daddy. Then related sa works naman ang pinag-usapan nila ni Mommy.

Sa likudan kami nakaupo ni Rei while sa passenger seat naman si Mommy. They decided to buy gifts na sa isang store para sa darating na birthday celebration ni Tito Paulo. Hindi na kami sumama ni Rei and naiwan na lang kami sa kotse.

Nang makabili sila ay pinaandar na ulit ni Daddy ’yung sasakyan. While he’s driving, nagkatinginan kami sa salamin. He smiled and so I did.

“Malapit na ’yung Valentines, huh. Wala ka pa rin bang boyfriend, Reese.” my eyes got bigger because of what Dad said. Inosente naman siyang nakangiti kaya napabuntong hininga ako.

“Nothing, Dad. I’m still finding the faithfull man, if meron man especially nowadays.” I said. Bigla naman silang natahimik dahil sa sagot ko. Iniwas ko ’yung tingin ko at tiningnan na lang ang tahimik na kalsada.

“Oh, okay. You’ll see him someday, baby.” he said, smiling. I know medyo naging harsh ako sa sagot ko, but it’s not intentional because I want a faitful partner, I want a man who stick to one. I heaved a deep sighed.

Dumiretso agad ako sa kwarto after namin makarating sa bahay. I’m tired and feel so sticky, so I took a bath before I went to sleep.

Sunday came and wala masyadong ganap sa buhay ko kahapon. It’s not productive just like the other day. Maghapon lang akong nanuod ng series sa Netflix then nag-usap lang kami saglit ni Zeyn and nagpaalam sa isa’t isa na may pupuntahan kaming birthday. I asked him the name of celebrant but the jerk said na hindi daw niya kilala because it his Dad’s friend.

Today is Tito Paulo’s day. Kanina pa nga nagte-text si Primo but I told them that Daddy want us to go with him. I told him naman na sure akong pupunta.

I’m wearing a white silk satin dress and my oran sandals, I curl my long hair then spray my favaorite perfumé. Hindi naman masyadong garbo ’yung birthday celebration ni Tito Paulo, sa bahay lang nila and dinner lang din.

When I went downstairs nandon na sina Mommy, Daddy, and Rei, they all looked expensive. Nang makababa ng tuluyan ay naglakad na kami papuntang garage.

“Happy Birthday po, Tito.” I greeted Tito Paulo. He said thank you naman kaya naupo na kaming dalawa ni Rei. Even though hindi garbo ay you will see na pinaghandaan pa rin and you will see different faces.

“Hey there, dre!” Primo greeted. I stood up and kissed his cheeks.

“Hey, where are they?” I asked.

“Nandon kami nina Edward and Louis, si Yohan naman papunta palang daw.” he said and I nodded. He told me na pumunta ’don sa pwesto nila after I ate. Hindi naman makakapunta si Claire because she had an emergency.

After I ate nagpaalam ako kina Mommy na si Primo na ang maghahatid sa ’kin. Pumayag naman sila because you know my parents, wala silang pake sa ’min. Tsk!

“Bitch, upo ka dito!” Louis said and pinalayo si Edward sa tabi niya. “Don ka nga!”

I sat next to her and she immediately gave me a beer. I rolled my eyes but tinanggap ko din naman. I missed drinking to be honest.

We talked ramdom things and of course si Louis and Edward na naman ang pinaka-maingay, they’re fighting kung marami bang magbibigay ng flowers kay Louis sa Valentines. Napailing na lang ako. These two, gosh!

I’m quietly sitting lang here and I decided to take a picture na lang para isend kay Zeyn. Then he immedietly replied ‘sobrang ganda mo, lods’. Aaminin kong mas kinikilig ako kapag tinatawag niya ’kong lods. I don’t know why. Jeez!

“Excuse me, punta lang akong bathroom.” I said and they just nodded. I smiled because they all busy teasing each other. When did I last I drink ba? Ba’t parang namiss ko ’to. I shook my head then walked towards the bathroom.

After I pee, I washed my hands then fix my self. I’m still gorgeous so I went out of the comfort room. But someone grabbed my waist and walked fastly. Nagpumiglas naman ako pero mahigpit ang pagkakapit niya sa ’kin. This jerk!

“Get your hands off me!” sigaw ko and patuloy pa rin sa pagpupumiglas palayo sa kanya.

“Shh… ako ’to, lods.” the jerk said. ’Don ako napatingin sa mukha ’nong lalaki, then I saw Zeyn handsome face. “Wag kang matakot, ako ’to.”

Dinala niya ko sa rooftop nina Primo. I still could not believe that the celebrant he’s talking is Tito Paulo. His Dad is Tito Paulo’s friend, nagkakilala daw sa isang insidente.

“Dito muna tayo. Masyadong boring sa loob, may dala ’kong beer tag-isang bote tayo. Pero ngayon lang ’to, huh. Wag mong abusin ’yung katawan mo.” he said, chuckling. I nodded then took the beer from him. Naupo kami sa chair.

Tahimik lang niyang pinagmamasdan ’yung langit habang ako ay nakatitig sa mga mukha niya. Habang patagal nang patagal ay nagiging gwapo siya sa paningin ko. Napabuntong hininga ’ko.

“How many ex do you have?” I suddenly asked para naman may pag-usapan kami. Mukha naman siyang nagulat, pero sumagot pa rin.

“Isa lang. Bakit mo natanong?” He said and looked so confused. Napangiti ako.

“Nothing. How about, body count?” I asked once again. ’Don siya mas lalong nagulat. He known for being a playboy so I think wala naman masama sa tanong ko.

“Uh-h… hindi ko alam. Hehe!” he said na parang nahihiya. Nag-iwas ako ng tingin at saka kinuha ’yung bote ng beer and uminom.

“Are you not going to ask me the same question I asked you?” I asked then faced him. Nagkatitigan kami ng tatlong segundo bago siya nagsalita.

“Okay, ilan naging ex mo?”

“Isa lang, tas manloloko pa.” I said and chuckled. Hindi naman siya nagreact kaya umayos ako. “Then sa body count ko, tatlo, ex ko pa ’yung isa. Si Clarence, si Rex, then last is ’yung naka one night stand kong we thought is committed pa. I know hindi madaling paniwalaan because a lot of people are saying I’m whore, slut, or whatever you called it. As a man that has a lot of séx experience, do you received that kind of discrimination or not?”

Napayuko siya saka mabilis na tumungga ng beer. “H-hindi… pero bakit ba natin ’to pinag-uusapan?”

“See! Bakit kapag lalaki ayos lang, pero kapag kaming mga Trans and Cisgender Woman hindi pwede. The world is unfair!” I said and unti-unti kong naramdaman ang mga luhang lumalandas sa pisngi ko.

“Shh… lasing kana. Tara na.” he said and saka ako nilapitan para alalayan na tumayo. Umiling iling ako saka siya hinarap sa ’kin.

“Bakit mo ’ko gusto gayong tatlong lalaki na ang umangkin sa katawan ko?” tanong ko. Napayuko siya saka mabigat na napabuntong hininga bago napaupo ulit sa upuan.

“Wala na ’kong pake sa nakaraan mo. At sisiguraduhin kong ako na ang pang-apat at huling lalaking aangkin sa katawan mo. Dahil ang alam ko lang ngayon ay gusto kita… gustong-gusto kita.”

Chapter 13

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Pretties. Thank you for waiting for this story. Luv y’all ;))

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“Uhm, thank you!” I said when he stopped his car in front of our house. He nodded and kissed my forehead. Napapikit naman ako after what he did.

“You’re welcome.” he said. He opened his door and mabilis na bumaba at pinagbuksan naman ako ng pinto. I smiled after he opened the door.

Ngayon lang kami nakauwi galing sa party ni Tito Paulo, Primo’s dad. Hindi namin nasunod ’yung sinabi niyang one bottle of beer lang ang iinumin namin ’cause pareho kaming nalibang. I don’t remember na nga how many bottles we drink.

“Good night, love.” he said and gave me a good night kiss. I shut my eyes tightly because you will feel the care of his kiss.

“Good night.” I uttered.

Naglakad na siya paikot sa driver seat and bid his goodbye at me. Kumaway naman ako bilang paalam and mabilis na niyang pinaandar ’yung kotse niya. After niyang makaalis ay naglakad ako papasok ng bahay. To be honest, I’m tipsy maybe because this is my first time again drinking liqiuor and nakailang bottles pa kami. I sighed.

Weeks had passed and nalalapit na nga ang Valentines Day. Many students in our school are very excited because may magaganap na event sa school. Sa isang linggo na lumipas ay dalawang beses lang kaming hindi nagkita ni Zeyn because we are both busy with other stuff, but we make sure na we will make time para sa aming dalawa.

I’m now in front of my vanity mirror because kakatapos ko lang mag-shower and I’m applying my sunblock sa face when my phone vibrates kaya kinuha ko iyon. I have notifications from Instragram.

wisgarcia

:

bitch, samahan mo ko sa salon papakulay akong hair then pa-cut ko na rin.

ris:

perfect, i just finished taking a shower. i’ll see you there na lang ba or you will fetch me here sa house?

wisgarcia:

daanan na lang kita dyan, bilisan mo lang gumayak.

I replied ‘k’ para matapos na ’yung usapan. Since Sunday naman ngayon then wala din here sa house ’yung sister ko. Maybe, it’s a sign na umalis rin ako. I chuckled.

I just did my on the go make-up then I walked towards my walk-in closet para makahanap ng clothes na masusuot. I decided to wear my blue square neck sleeveless crop top then I partnered a white fitted skirts. I also wore my Christian Dior diorac sandals in white lambskin. Then lastly, I took my white classic Chanel bag.

I checked my looks sa vanity mirror and ng makitang ayos naman ang look ko ay kinuha ko ’yung phone to text Zeyn because I will update him about sa gala namin ngayon ni Louis. Then after I texted him, I went downstairs.

“Do you think hindi ka papagalitan because of your hair?” I asked Louis. We are now inside of the mall and we are currently walking towards the salon.

“And you think may pake ako?” she sarcastic said. I rolled my eyes at her dahil hindi siya makausap ng matino.

“Bitch! Anyway, why nga pala hindi mo inaya si Claire. Is she busy?” I asked, frowning. Umirap naman siya sabay malalim na bumuntong hininga.

“Bakla, hindi ka pa ba sanay sa friend natin na ’yon. Syempre inaya ko si akla kaso lang ang gaga kanina pa pala nakaalis sa bahay nila. Alam mo na may kasama na namang lalaki. Aligaga ang frenny natin pagdating sa boys.” she muttered.

I just shrugged na lang sa sinabi nya then sakto naman na nakarating na kami sa salon kung saan siya nagpa-sched para sa treatment na gagawin sa kanya.

Since alam kong matatagalan ’yung treatment na gagawin sa kanya, I decided to get my nails done here as well. This is my first time na mag-iba ng nail tech because I used to get my nails done sa clinic ni Miss Destiny. But I think okay din naman here.

While doing my nails, I brow on my IG and nakita ko ’yung story ni Claire na parang nasa isang café at hindi kita ’yung mukha ng kasama niyang guy. This bitch!

Nang maumay ako kakatingin sa story ng mga tao sa Instagram ay ni-picturan ko ’yung nakatalikod sakin na si Louis and ni-story ko sa IG ko and nilagyan ko lang ng caption na ‘pamper day with this biatch’ marami naman agad ang nag-heart.

After ilang hours ay natapos na kami sa salon. After we paid sa bill, we went out. I’m satisfied naman sa results ng nails ko because it looks pretty, it’s just a plain red gel polish and naiba lang ’yung sa ring finger ko dahil naka french tip ’yung red gel polish ’don. I read kasi sa isang article na red polish attracts men, I dont know if it’s true.

“Girl, maganda ba ’yung hair color tsaka ’yung gupit?” Louis asked while we were walking. We’re searching for a vape shop because she wants to buy a pod dahil naubos na daw ’yung pod ng vape niya.

“Yes it looks good on you.” I said, smiling. Nag-make face naman siya na para na namang timang kaya napa-iling na lang ako.

After ilang minutes ng paghahanap ay may nakita na rin kami sa wakas. But medyo marami ’yung customer kaya nakapila pa kami. I roamed my eyes in the surroundings then I saw Zack with three guys, maybe his friends.

“Gago, meron pa kong extra pod sa bahay. Titingin lang akong PS5 at nautusan lang ako ni Kuya.” Zack said. I heard that because I’m walking towards his spot.

I smiled as I approached him. “Hi, bibili ka din ng vape?”

“Uy, ikaw pala ’yan Reese. Hindi, may laman pa ’yung pod ko, eh. Ikaw, nagve-vape ka din ba?” he said.

“Yeah, but sinamahan ko lang ’yung friend kong bumili ng pod since paubos na ’yung pod niya.” I said then I pointed Louis that I was already paying.

“Angas mo pala.” he said, chuckling. Napangiti naman ako. He introduced me to his friends and I just said my hi to them. Sakto naman na lumapit sa ’min si Louis so I introduced her naman sa kanila.

After we greeted each other, we bid our goodbyes at them then we went straight to Starbucks ni Louis. We both ordered a Caffé Vanilla Frappuccino then after namin mag-coffee ay tumingin pa kami ng damit sa Uniqlo and Zara.

I bought a dress because I found it pretty, though I’m not a fan of it. Then I saw a cute button-down polo for Zeyn kay binili ko na din. Louis asked me pa nga kung kay nino ko daw iyon ibibigay but I just smirked at her. She gave a glare look lang naman, so I chuckled.

Hinatid ako ni Louis sa bahay since she’s with her driver and I went straight to the bathroom para mag-half bath. Then kumain lang ako sa ibaba after, ang kasabay ko lang is si Manang Ine because Ate Sarah and Rei are still not here.

[Nakita ka daw ni Zack kanina sa mall.] Zeyn said over the phone. I’m now doing my skin care while talking to him. He’s just watching me.

“Ah yeah. In vape shops sa mall.” I said. Napatango tango naman siya. “Oh, wait! Look at my nails. I just got my nails done kanina while waiting for Louis.” I said then pinakita sa kanya ’yung nails ko.

[Uhm, maganda. Bagay sa’yo.] he said. I looked at him through the phone because he sounded tired.

“Are you tired? Do you wanna sleep na ba? You can sleep naman na.” I said, smiling. Though medyo hurt ’cause ngayon na lang kami ulit magkakausap kasi maghapon siyang busy with his friends. They played basketball then they ate in samgyupsal after.

[Hindi ah! Medyo busog lang tsaka tumagay din kasi kami kanina kaya parang inaantok ako.] he said while staring at me directly. I just nodded and smiled.

Nagpatuloy kami sa pag uusap then I remember na I bought him a polo kaya I showed it to him. Bigla naman siyang sumigla at mukhang nawala ang tama because of alcohol.

Once again, the days have passed and today is the event for Valentines Day sa school. I just wore the classic denim pants and plain white loose shirt. Then I partned it by white sneakers.

We are here in gymnassium para mamili ng mga pagkain. May mga booth din here, na gawa ng SSC. I went straight here sa gym because I’m late, and aside from that wala din naman daw ginagawa sa classroom namin.

“Bakit kaya hindi magkasama si Gab and Liam ngayon?” Louis said kaya napatingin kami sa tinitingnan niya, then I saw Gabbi and her friends. They’re eating sa side.

“Bitch! You forgot ba? ’Di ba ngayon ang last day ng Immersion ng mga Grade 12.” Claire answered her. Na-shock naman siya ng marealize ’yung sinagot ni Claire.

“Ay oo nga pala.” she said and chuckled. I just rolled my eyes at her. I took my phone on my bag then I messaged Zeyn asking where he was.

Hindi naman agad siya naka-reply kaya I sip na lang sa drinks ko. Sabay-sabay naman kaming napatingin ng makita ’yung tatlong boys na papalapit sa spot namin.

At ganon na lang ang gulat namin ni Claire when Edward gave Louis a bouquet of flowers. Even Louis was shocked because of what Edward did.

“Hoy! Seryoso akin nga ’to?!” hindi makapaniwalang sabi ni Louis while looking at Edward. The latter just nodded his head before he walked towards the stall that was selling drinks.

“Happy Valentines, girls.” Primo and Yohan greeted us. They also gave us a flower pero ’yung simple lang, hindi katulad ’nong kay Louis, bouquet. A fucking bouquet! Shit.

Sumunod ’yung dalawang boys kay Edward habang nakangisi kay Louis. Nang mawala sila sa pwesto namin ay sabay kaming napahampas ni Claire sa braso ni Louis.

“Aray naman! ’Yung barbie arms ko!” she groaned. She even rolled her eyes while a smile plastered on her lips. Shit!

“Gurl, what was that?!” I excitedly asked.

“Kaya nga! Bakit may pa-bouquet, bakla!” Claire said.

“I don’t know. Nagulat nga din ako, sa tingin niyo may ibig sabihin ba ’to?!” Louis asked. Claire and I nodded. Of course it has a meaning, bakit naman magbibigay ang isang lalaki ng flower sa isang babae ng wala lang. I sighed.

Initriga pa namin si Louis about sa kanila ni Edward. She said na wala naman daw ibang ginawa si Edward aside from this one. We said na lang na wait for more because I’m pretty sure na may ibig sabihin ’yang pa-bouquet ni Edward at hindi ’yan counted sa pang-aasar niya kay Louis.

We just watched ’yung mga kinakasal sa booth then may mga booth din na games naman kaya we tried din ’don. While I’m watching Primo doing the challenge sa isang booth. I turned my gaze behind because I felt someone standing at my back, then I saw Zeyn.

He smiled at me and so I did. He’s wearing a white Ralph Lauren polo-shirt partned by faded ripped jeans, then his top-sider shoes. Gwapo!

“Hey, kanina ka pa dito?” he asked. I shook my head as an answer. “Hmm, ’kala ko kanina ka pa. Kain tayo ’don?”

He pointed ’yung stall na may tinitindang mga merienda. I smiled and nagpaalam ako kay Primo na alis muna kami. The latter nodded his head, arrogantly. Buti na lang hindi napansin iyon ni Zeyn.

“Let’s go.”

I ordered a hotdog sandwich and milktea, him naman is he ordered nachos. Hindi ko maiwasan titigan siya because ang gwapo niya sa suot niya. Simple lang pero malakas ’yung dating. Ugh! A man likes him nga naman.

He paid for our meal kahit I insist na babayaran ko siya. Sabi niya siya daw kasi ang nag-aya. Hinayaan ko na lang ’cause ayoko din naman ng discussion. Naupo kami sa isang table then we ate na ’yung food.

“Hmm, nga pala. Papaaalam ako sa’yo, love. May get together kami ng mga classmate ko ngayon. Kakain lang sa labas. Okay lang?” he muttered. I nodded naman.

“Yeah, of coure. What time dinner niyo?” I asked.

“Mamaya pa naman mga six pm, kaya mahahatid pa kita pauwi.” he said and winked at me. I shook my head as disapproval because he doesn’t need na ihatid ako.

“Uh, no need na akong ihatid. My friends are there, don’t worry.” I said and smiled. He gave me a stern look and sighed. Napatango-tango siya kalaunan.

After we ate the merienda ay magkasama kaming naglibot-libot sa booth. I laughed when he glared at those guys na gustong mag bigay sakin ng flowers and chocolates. May mga nakatakot but meron din naman akong inabot na lang basta. This jerk!

Maya-maya pa ay inaya ko na siyang bumalik sa pwesto ng mga kaibigan ko. And what time na din kasi, he had other errands. We looked for my friends but I don’t see them aside from Primo.

“Uhm, Primo is there.” I said and he nodded. We walked where Primo is. Napatingin naman si Primo sa gawi namin.

“Alis na ’ko. Ingat sa pag-uwi. Nga pala, sa linggo ala sais ng gabi sunduin kita sa inyo, may pupuntahan tayo.” he said saka mabilis na sinakop ’yung labi ko. My eyes widen not because Primo is here but because we’re in school.

Mabilis lang naman ’yung paghalik but kahit na. He looked at me with his puffy eyes and smiled, then he turned his gaze at Primo and maangas siyang tumango dito. After that ay naglakad na siya palabas ng gymnassium. Geez!

“Seryoso ka ba sa kanya, Reese?” Primo suddenly asked. I looked at him and smiled.

“Where are they? Tara hanapin natin.”

Sunday came and I’m here in my vanity mirror doing my own make-up. I decided to make a class make-up look since I don’t know where Zeyn and I are going. I’m wearing a very sexy red backless string dress then my silver high heels from Hermés.

When I went downstairs nakasalubong ko pa ’yung kapatid ko na nakangiti habang papasok ng main door. My left brow arched, is someone hitting on her?! Nilagpasan niya lang ako ng magkasalubong kami. Sakto naman na may nag doorbell. Maybe it’s Zeyn.

I walked out of the house then I’m right because I saw Zeyn leaning on his car while wearing the button-down polo na binili ko sa kanya. Ang gwapo grabe!

I smiled when I reached his spot, then I asked. “Where are we going?”

“Secret muna. Sakay na, lods.” he said and he opened the passenger seat. Nang makasakay siya ay ngumiti muna bago binuksan ’yung sounds then drive safelty.

Sinasabayan ko lang ’yung kanta habang siya ay sumusulyap-sulyap sakin paminsan-minsan. Later minute ay nakarating na kami sa isang fancy restaurant. Na-shock ako nang makapasok kami dahil nagpa-reserve pala talaga siya. Gosh!

“Para sa’yo.” he said then gave a bouquet of sunflowers. How beautiful this bouquet is. I felt tears weeling in my eyes.

“Thank you!” I said.

He sat in front of me then we started talking. How he planned this dinner and how he asked for help kina Arthur and Troy because he’s not familiar with this thing. Mas lalo tuloy akong na-touch. My fragile heart.

They served the food and I must say that their steak is one of the best steaks I’ve tasted. I took a lot of photos because my heart is damn happy. I really need to capture this moment.

We were now having our drinks while watching ’yung musician na tumutugtos ng violin. Then suddenly I felt his hand sa wrist ko ay may kinabit na bangle. It’s the heart closure snake chain bacelet from Pandora. My eyes widened. Shit!

“What was that for?” I asked when I felt my eyes watered. This man is making me cry. I had a deep sigh.

“Regalo ko ’yan sa’yo.” he said, smiling. “Nagustuhan mo ba?”

Napatango-tango ako. “I relly like it. But I’m shy because nag-effort ka ng mga gan’tong bagay while me is wala man lang kahit na anong present sa’yo.” I sighed and napayuko. Nakakahiya!

He held my chin at pinatingin sa kanya. I looked at him and so he did. “Okay lang… makasama ka lang kita sa araw na ’to ang pinakamagandang regalo sa lahat.”

Chapter 14

“How much is the bill?” I asked and fished out my wallet from my bag. I took my credit card to pay the bill. He looked at me and his forehead creased.

“Seryoso ka ba? At sa tingin mo ba pagbabayarin kita? Tsk!” he said and took out his wallet from his pocket. Then he looked at the bill saka naglabas ng libo-libong pera. Gosh! How much is the bill ba?!

I took the receit then I my eyes widened because the bill is almost ten thousands. I had a deep sighed. Gosh!

“Uhm, please don’t be offended sa sasabihin ko… but you told me before na hindi naman kayo mayaman, then why ka gumagastos ng ganyang kalaking pera now?” I asked all of a sudden. He looked at me and sigh.

“Hindi naman ’to pera ni Papa, eh. Ipon ko ’to kaya pwedeng kong gastusin hanggang sa gusto ko, lalo na kung para sa’yo. Kung tatanungin mo naman kung saan nanggaling ’tong ipon ko, minsan kasi rumaraket ako sa talyer ni Tito at malaki-laki ang binibigay niyang pera kaya nakakapag-ipon ako.” he explained.

Napalunok naman ako because of realizations. Imagine he’s using his own money para sa date namin then me is my parent’s money. Though nasa account ko naman na pero nakakahiya pa rin kasi parents ko ang may bigay ’non, ta’s ang yabang ko pa kanina na mag-insist na magbayad. I sighed.

After he paid ay nag-aya na siyang umuwi. I put one thousand pesos para sa tip ng mga waiter. We walked through the parking while he’s holding my right hand. I giggled.

“Thank you, I really enjoyed tonight. Take care.” I said nang nasa tapat na kami ng house namin. Lumapit siya sa pwesto ko at mabilis akong hinalikan sa labi. Since I’m craving for his kiss, I deepened the kiss kaya nagtagal ng ilang minuto ang halikan namin.

“Good night, love. Masaya kong napasaya kita.” he said nang tuluyan na kong makababa sa car niya. I smiled and waved my hand.

“Good night. Take care!” I said and walked inside our house. I went straight to my room then I just did my night routine.

After doing my all kaartihan’s, I took my phone para mag-story sa IG, then I checked all my social medias account including my emails. While I was checking all the emails, my jaw dropped when I saw the message of one of the famous skin care brand in the Philippines.

I checked their messages and they want me to be their new ambassadress for the their brand. But I was hesitant to grab their offer ’cause their main endorser is Miles Co, one of the biggest star in this generation.

If you are wondering why I’m hesitant to work with her is because I know her for the longest time. She’s our schoolmate before pa siya maging ganyan kasikat and she has an attitude na talaga, but of course hindi niya ipapakita ’yon to gain her supporters sympathy. And lastly, I know her for being mang-aagaw because she’s the girl na naging third party sa relationship namin ni Clarence. Hindi sa pagiging bitter but I don’t want to cross our path again. Never!

“Argh! I’m so damn hungry! Nakakagutom ’yung mga gagawin. Bakit kasi kung kelan patapos na ’yung school year saka sila magpapagawa ng maraming gawain?!” Claire muttered while rolling her eyes. I shook my head and sighed. Today is Monday and ang rami talagang activities na pinapatapos sa ’min since the school year will gonna end sooner.

“Bobita! Ikaw na ang may sabi na patapos na ’yung school year kaya sila maraming pinagagawa. Alam mo naman ’yang school natin, mahilig sa cramming.” Louis said and sat beside me. The boys just laughed at them dahil nag uumpisa na silang magtalo.

“Louis, ’wag mo ’kong umpisahan, huh! Nagugutom ako.” Claire said and rolled her eyes.

“Whatever!”

I sighed. “Would you please stop arguing, both of you. Let’s eat na lang.” I said. Tumango naman sila kalaunan kaya inutusan na namin ’yung boys to take our orders.

Mabilis lang naman ’yung services dahil wala masyadong kumakain ngayon sa cafeteria ng school. Late na din kasi kung tutuusin ’yung lunch namin na ’to. While eating, I took out my phone from my bag and I chatted Zeyn that I’m eating lunch na. He’s not online so I continue eating na lang.

When I’m done eating, I decided to buy desserts since I wasn’t able to use my vape here in school. I stood up and I told them na bibili lang akong desserts and babalik agad. They all nodded since they’re busy talking each other, napailing na lang ano ng mapatingin kina Louis and Edward, hindi sila nag aasaran now and they looked sweet pa nga. Tsk!

Nang papalapit na ko sa line, I was shocked pa when I saw Zack again. I smiled as greetings to him and so he did.

“Oh, Reese, ikaw pala. Sino kasama mo?” he asked. Tinuro ko naman ’yung mga kaibigan ko and he nodded.

“Ikaw, ba’t wala ka yatang kasama?” I muttered, he shook his head saka pinakita sa ’kin ’yung barya sa palad n’ya.

“Nautusan lang akong bumili ng scotch tape. Busy kasi mga ka-grupo na tapusin ’yung project namin kay Mr. Rodrigo.” he said. I just shrugged and nod.

“Ang sipag mo pala at lagi kang utusan” I said, chuckling. Natawa din siya dahil sa sinabi ko. “Speaking of that, ’di ba when I saw you sa vape shop sa mall ang sabi mo nautusan ka lang ni Kuya mo na tumingin ng PS5. Nakabili na ba siya?”

“Hindi pa nga, eh. Ewan ko ba ’don, kasi ang sabi niya may ipon naman na daw siya bago niya ko utusan na tumingin tas nong tinanong ko siya kung nabili na ba n’ya ang sabi niya lang may pinag-gastusan daw siya nong pera, mas mahalaga pa daw ’don sa PS5.”

My eyes widen because of what he said. Then mas lalong nanlaki ang mata ko when I realized na sa akin ginastos ni Zeyn ’yung ipon niya instead of buying his personal wants. Ang laki-laki ng binayaran niya sa resto then ang mahal pa nong bangle na binigay niya sa ’kin from Pandora. I sighed.

“Mauna na ’ko, Reese. See you around.” Zack said. Hindi ko namalayan na nakabili na pala siya dahil sa mga iniisip ko. I waved my hand at him saying my goodbye.

After our afternoon class I decided to go to the mall para bumili ng PS5 for Zeyn. Magpapasama na lang din ako kina Claire and Louis. Hindi talaga kaya ng konsensya ko isipin na inuna niya pa ako kaysa sa gustong-gusto niyang bagay. I know he really want that thing because he’s a gamer. And I think he deserve that, and it will serves my valentine gift na rin sa kanya.

“Iba talaga kapag inlove, napapagastos bigla.” Louis teased me and tumawa sila ni Claire. I just rolled my eyes at them kaya mas natawa sila ni Claire.

“Would you please stop teasing me, I’m not inlove. Nahihiya lang ako dahil ginastos niya ’yung pambili niya ng PS5 for me.” I said. They shrugged their shoulders lang naman at hindi na nagsalita.

“Thank you, ma’am.” the salesman said matapos i-abot sa ’kin ’yung PS5 na binili ko together with my card. I just smiled at him lang and saka kami lumabas ng store.

Nag-aya sila na magkape sa bagong bukas na coffee shop and they said na dapat treat ko because sinamahan nila kong bumili sa mall. Wala naman akong nagawa kung hindi ang tumango. These bitches! Parang mga walang sariling allowance. I sighed.

Sa isang open area na café kami pumunta para daw makapag vape kami. Hindi naman na ’ko umangal dahil malamig naman na at past five PM na rin. While drinking our coffee, I decided to tell them ’yung about sa skin care brand na ni-offer sa ’kin.

“Uhm, girls. May nag-offer sa ’kin na isang brand ng skin care to be their new ambassadress but I was hesitant to take it because their main endorser is Miles Co.” I muttered.

Nasamid si Claire sa kapeng iniinom niya while napa-ubo naman si Louis habang nagve-vape. They overreacting na naman. I sighed.

“Miles Co? ’Yung babae dati ni Clarence?” Louis asked and I nodded as an answer. Napa-irap naman si Claire at saka humigop ulit ng kape sa kanyang straw.

“Oh, why don’t you take it? Be professional, Reese. After all, its all about work. Huwag mong sabihin sa ’min na hindi ka pa nakakamove-on kaya you’re hesitant to take it.” Claire said.

“No way! I already moved on, ’no. Ayoko lang ulit mag-cross ang landas namin.” I said saka uminom sa coffee ko.

“Girl, you know what?! Sayang ’yung kikitain mong pera ’don. I’m not saying na kailangan na kailangan mo ng pera. What I’m trying to say is bukod sa perang kikitaan mo ’don, I think its a stepping stone din to reach your dream. ’Di ba you really want to be an actress and a model. I think its a sign. But nasa sa’yo pa rin naman ’yung desisyon.” mahabang litanya ni Louis.

I sighed after what Louis said. She has a point, maybe its a stepping stone for me na mas mapansin ng ibang brand dahil hindi bastang brand lang ang kumuha sa ’kin, it’s a big brand, they had name already sa industry. Napahipak na lang ako sa vape ko dahil sa stress. Argh!

After we drink coffee ay napagdesisyonan na namin na umuwi na. Hinatid ako ni Louis hanggang sa house namin while si Claire ay nagpasundo sa pinsan niya. I took a bath lang before I check my emails. I emailed the skin care brand na kumukuha sa ’kin that I accepted their offer. Mabilis naman silang nag-reply and they told me pa na this Saturday na ’yung shoot sa ilalabas nilang bagong item. I giggled excitedly.

Days had passed. Zeyn and I are both busy sa acads kaya hindi kami masyadong nakakapaglandian. After my class ay nagmemerienda lang kami then hahatid niya ’ko sa bahay. Iyon lang ang pagsasama namin for the past three days.

Today is Thursday and gaya ng nakasayan namin these past few days ay nagmerienda lang kami kanina then hinatid niya ’ko pauwi. I’m doing my project sa isang subject namin while he’s playing sa computer niya, magka-video call kami ngayon kahit na busy kami parehas sa mga ginagawa.

[Love, hindi ka pa ba tapos d’yan? Anong oras na, oh.] he said kaya napatingin ako sa screen ng phone ko. Bumungad sakin ang nakapout niyang nguso pero kahit na gano’n ay gwapo pa rin siya. I smiled.

“Not yet, but malapit na. You want to sleep na? Go sleep, matatapos na din ’to maya-maya.” I said, smiling. Lalo naman humaba ang pag-nguso niya.

[Gusto ko kasi ng bebe time. Anong oras na, oh. Hindi mo pa ’ko nalalambing. Hays!] he said and umarte na parang nasasaktan. Natawa naman ako sa ginawa niya dahil may pahawak pa siya sa puso niya. Lumipat naman ang tingin ko sa orasan at nakitang malapit na mag alas dose.

“I will finish this first then after this ay lalambingin na kita.” I said, chuckling. He just tsked and bumalik sa paglalaro sa computer, ako naman ay tinuloy na ’yung ginagawa para matapos na at gusto ko din ng bebe time. I chuckled.

Twenty minutes later ay natapos ko na din ’yung ginagawa kong project at napatingin ako sa orasan. Past twelve o’clock na. I turned my sight sa phone screen ko then I saw Zeyn na kunot noong nakatingin sa computer niya habang nagpipindot sa key board niya.

“I’m done.” I said kaya mabilis siyang napatingin sa akin. I saw how his smile widen.

“Nagutom ako ang tagal mo kasi tapusin ’yan. Gusto mo kain tayong McDo sunduin kita d’yan ngayon?” ani niya kaya biglang nanlaki ang mata ko and I nodded my head immediately. Parang nag-crave din tuloy ako sa McDo, and para face to face ang lambingan namin. I chuckled dahil sa naisip.

“Let’s go na, change your clothes then.” I said excitedly.

“Pwede ka pa bang lumabas?” alangan na sabi niya. I rolled my eyes in disbelief. Serious ba siya sa tanong niya? He’s asking me if I’m allowed to go outside ng ganitong oras? Of course, umuuwi nga ako ng umaga galing bar. Tsk!

“Of course, so change your clothes then fetch me here. Faster!” I said and napamura pa siya dahil sa sinabi ko. Natawa lang naman ako. Mabilis kong pinatay ’yung video call then I went to my vanity mirror.

I decided na itong silk satin pj’s ko na lang ang susuotin ko then I sprayed my favorite perfumé, I wore my Birkenstock na two strap slippers then I’m done. I took my wallet and vape then I went downstairs para ’don na lang hintayin si Zeyn. I brought the PS5 as well para ibigay na sa kanya, I know he would be happy beacause of my gift.

I waited him for about fifteen minutes then when he arrived agad akong sumakay sa passenger seat. He grabbed my nape and kissed me torridly. Nang maghiwalay ’yung labi namin ay nag ngitian kami. He missed me so much. I giggled.

“Hmp, tames!” he said and smiled.

“Mag-drive through na lang tayo then search for a perfect place na pwedeng kainan.” I said.

“Okay, love. Your wish is my command.” he muttered and winked at me. He’s too cute that made me giggled. This man is so hyper now.

We went to the nearest McDonalds. He followed me nga na mag-drive through na lang. I ordered spaghetti, large fries, burger, and mcfloat then he ordered spicy chicken with rice, fries, burger, and mcfloat as well. After we got our orders, he search a place na pwedeng kainan.

We found a perfect place para kumain, bumaba ako ng kotse while holding our food. Binuksan naman niya ’yung likod ng kotse at ’don kami naupo. This unplanned trip is heaven.

We started eating while he’s hugging me from my back. I rest my head to his chest while we were eating. Nakatingin lang din kami sa tahimik at payapang paligid.

While we were eating bigla kong naalala ’yung regalo ko sa kanyang PS5. Kaya bumaba ako sa pagkakaupo sa likod ng sasakyan niya.

“Uhm, wait, I will give you something.” I said and went to his backseat to get my gift from him. “For you.” I said, smiling. Nanlalaki ang mata niyang nakatingin sa hawak ko bago nilipat ang tingin sa akin.

“Fuck! Ano ’yan, love?” kunot noo niyang tanong. He seems that he didn’t like it. My forehead creased.

“My gift for you. Nalaman ko kasi na hindi mo ’to nabili kasi inuna mo ’yung surprise mo sa ’kin kaya I bought it for you, but it seems na you don’t like it naman.” pinatunog nagtatampo ko ang boses ko kaya nataranta siya.

“Tangina! Gustong-gusto ko, love… gustong-gusto.” natataranta niyang sabi saka sinunggaban ang labi ko.

“Hmm, busy ka this weekend?” I suddenly asked because I want him to go with me sa shooting ko this Saturday. Umangat ang tingin ko sa kanya then he shook his head.

“Bakit?” he asked.

“Papasama sana ko sa’yo sa shoot ko sa isang skin care brand. If you’re not busy, huh! But if you’re busy its okay, I can bring one of my friend naman.” I said and smiled.

“Ikaw ang priority ko kaya sasamahan kita. Hmm, love…” he said kissed my right cheek. Inubos na namin ’yung pagkain then after ay nagpatugtog lang siya at saka kami sumayaw.

Nang nakakasenti na ’yung sayaw ay kinuha niya yung isang kong kamay then he put it to his shoulder. He placed his hand to my waist and smiled, then we started dancing.

Malumanay lang kaming nagsasayaw habang magkadikit ang mga noo namin. He closed his eyes and kissed me. Gumanti ako ng halik kaya lumalim ang halikan namin, nang maghiwalay ang labi namin ay nagkatinginan namin. Namumungay ang mga mata niya.

“Mahal kita, Reese.” he said and it feels that it came from the buttom of his heart. It made me speechless.

“H-huh?” I stuttered.

“Ang sabi ko mahal na kita. Hindi na lang ’to simpleng pagkagusto lang, mahal na kita… mahal na mahal.” he, once again, kissed me and so I did… maybe my friends are right, I’m inlove… inlove to this guy.

Chapter 15

“Sige na pumasok ka na.” he said while staring at me intently. It’s already past two o’clock AM and ngayon lang kami nakauwi ’cause masyado kaming nalibang sa pagsasaya kanina. I smiled at him.

“Drive safely, okay? Then text me when you get home.” I said and gave him a quick kiss. He nodded and smiled.

“Bukas after ng class niyo sunduin kita ta’s sa bahay kana mag-dinner. Ipagluluto kita.” he said kaya na-excite na naman ako.

“Bukas? Saturday? O later because it’s past two am na kaya, Mr. Mercado.” biro kong sabi. Napailing naman siya habang nangingiti.

“Mamaya, love. Sige na matulog kana, may pasok pa tayo bukas.” he said then kissed me on my forehead. Sakto talaga ’yung tangkad niya para sa forehead kiss. Kidding!

“Good night. Take care.” I said and bid my goodbye to him.

“Night, I love you.” seryosong ani niya at binigyan ko lang naman siya ng matamis na ngiti. I don’t know, even though alam ko naman na mahal ko na din siya, I just can’t say I love him too ng ganon kadali. Soon na lang kapag may label na kami. I chuckled.

Tomorrow morning before I went to school, I brought lang na pampalit na damit because I used to take a bath after kong manggaling sa school. I feel sticky kasi after school kaya agad akong naliligo pag-uwi.

“Parang puyat na puyat ka yata?” Louis said kaya napatingin sa ’min si Primo na naglalaro sa phone niya. We are here lang sa classroom because we have an one hour vacant. Ayaw naman namin lumabas ng classroom because mainit sa labas.

“I finished kasi ’yung isa natin project last night. Para at least hindi ako mag-cram sa dami nating pending activities.” I answered and she just shrugged her shoulder. Hindi ko na lang siya pinansin and I continue scrolling on my phone.

“Bobo ampota!” Edward said to Primo and Yohan. They’re playing ML yata, hindi ko naman sila maintindihan because I don’t know how to play that game.

“Ikaw tanga, eh! Sugod ka nang sugod alam mong mamamatay ka na. Bobo amp!” Yohan uttered and Primo just chuckled. Even though nakakarindi ’yung ingay nila ay hindi na lang namin sila pinansin.

“Hoy! What if mag hang out tayo later? Its Friday night. Matagal tagal na din ’yung last hang out natin, before every Friday nagha-hang out tayo.” Louis suggested kaya napatingin kami sa kanya.

“Uhm, I don’t think makakasama ako. I have other things to do.” I muttered because I already said yes kay Zeyn that I will eat dinner sa kanila.

“Saan naman ang lakad mo, bitch?!” sabay na sabi ni Louis and Claire. Hindi ko sinagot ang tanong nila but I saw sa peripheral vision ko ang paninitig ni Primo sa ’kin, but hindi siya kumibo.

Before our class ends, I received a messages from Zeyn saying na five PM pa daw ’yung end ng class nila, four PM lang naman ’yung sa ’kin kaya I texted him na I’ll wait na lang him sa Starbucks.

We are here in Starbucks and we ordered lang ’yung usually na coffee na ni-oorder namin.

“Hoy! Are you really not going with us, tonight?” Louis asked and I shook my head as an answer. I sip my coffee before I began to speak.

“Nope, maybe next time. I have other things to do later. I already made a promise to Zeyn that I will be having a dinner with him tonight sa house nila.” I answered that made her eyes bigger.

“Zeyn? Are you really dating him? O may karat ka lang later?” she muttered kaya I gave her a resting bitch face. This bitch!

I heaved a deep sigh. “Yes, we’re dating and he’s courting me. And to tell you honestly, I think I’m ready to commit with him.”

“Omygosh! Inlove ang bestfriend ko. Happy for you, girl.” she said giggling. Napairap na lang ako sa ka-OA-yan ng babaitang ’to. I asked her naman what’s going on between her and Edward, she just shrugged her shoulder as answer kaya hindi ko na initriga pa.

We continue talking while waiting kay Zeyn, I asked her din kung tutuloy talaga sila later mag hang-out and she said yes dahil namimiss talaga daw niya ang mag-night out.

I took my phone on the top of the table nang tumunog iyon. I read Zeyn’s messages asking where I am. I told her na nasa SB ako with Louis and he answered na on his way na papunta sa ’kin.

“Love.” someone said behind me. Sabay kaming napatingin ni Louis sa likod ko at nakita ko ang gwapong mukha ni Zeyn wearing his uniform. Ang linis tignan. Shit!

“Sana all may love. Eme!” Louis uttered kaya I rolled my eyes lang at her. Tumayo na ’ko para magpaalam kay Louis, we insist pa na hinatid namin siya pera she can handle herself naman daw. Sinabihan niya pa si Zeyn na ingatan ako at ang sagot naman ng mayabang ay matagal na niya ’kong iniingatan.

When we arrived sa car ay napagtanto ko na lagi siyang naka-car na. Dati-rati motor lang ’yung dala niya, medyo nahiya naman ako dahil baka nang dahil sa ’kin ay napapagastos siya sa gasolina. Well, we have our own gasoline station, so if he want some gasoline ay I can sponsor him naman.

“Ano gusto mong ulam, love?” he asked while driving. Nilingon niya ’ko ng hindi agad ako nakasagot dahil nag-iisip pa ’ko ng gusto kong ulam tonight.

“Uhm, I want kare-kare. You know how to cook that ba?” I said at napatango-tango siya. Hindi ko na naman napigilan mamahanga dahil kahit ano yatang putahe ay alam niyang lutuin. Ang swerte ko naman. Gwapo na marunong pang magluto. I giggled.

We went to the mall to buy the ingredients. And after that ay dumiretso na kami sa bahay nila. When we arrived sa house nila ay kaming dalawa lang ang tao dahil hindi pa nakakauwi si Zack.

“Ah… can I use your bathroom. Maliligo lang ako, I feel sticky na kasi.” ani ko ng makababa sa kotse. He raised a brow and smirked.

“Gusto mo sabay na tayo maligo?” he said and tinaas-baba ’yung kilay niya. Napalunok naman ako, buti na lang ay bago ako makatango ay binawi niya ’yung sinabi niya. “Joke lang, love. Sige na maligo kana sa taas, sa CR na lang dito sa ibaba maliligo.”

And that what I did. I took a shower sa bathroom niya and I did my routine. After kong magpahid ng lotion, I wore my black tank top and white short shorts. I combed my hair then went downstairs.

Naabutan ko si Zeyn na nagluluto sa kitchen wearing a boxer shorts and apron. Napalunok ako dahil sa itsura niya. Hottie!

He looked at me ng mapansin ’yung presence ko, he smiled and so I did. “Nagugutom ka na, love? Medyo matagal ’to, eh.” umiling naman ako at ngumiti ulit siya. “Maupo ka muna ’don sa sofa ta’s manuod ka habang nagluluto ako dito.”

I nodded my head as an answer dahil wala naman akong maitutulong sa kanya ’cause I really don’t know how to cook. I sat on their couch and took the remote control para manuod ng movie sa Netflix.

I’m in the middle of watching the movie ng bumukas ang pintuan sa harap nila Zeyn. Then pumasok si Zack at nakangiti na agad sa ’kin.

“Oh, Reese, nandito ka pala. Nasaan si kuya?” he asked and I pointed his brother na nasa kitchen.

“He’s cooking our dinner. Sumabay ka na sa ’min na kumain.” I muttered kaya napangiti siya.

“Sige sige, magpapalit lang ako sa itaas.” he went upstairs kaya I continue watching the movie. After ilang minutes pa ay nakita ko ng lumabas si Zeyn sa kitchen kaya napunta ang tingin ko sa kanya.

“Tara, love. Kain na tayo.” he said then take off his apron. Napatingin naman ako sa mabalahibo niyang dibdib pababa sa ibaba ng pusod niya. I swallowed hard ng mapagtanto na I’m checking him out. I sighed.

“Uh, let’s wait Zack para makasabay na din siya sa pagkain.” I said and lumapit sa kanya para yumakap. Niyakap ko s’ya paharap. “Are you tired of cooking?” I asked then kissed his chest.

“Hindi naman, basta ikaw ang ipagluluto ko ay hinding-hindi ako mapapagod.” he said smirking and kissed me sa lips ng mabilisan lang. Napa-pout naman ako ng nguso dahil nabitin sa halik niya.

“Tames nyo!” Zack shouted, we turned our gazed at him and naka-make face lang siya. Natawa naman ako sa itsura niya. “Kumain na tayo, naaalidbadbaran ako sa inyo.”

Naunang naupo sa dinning table si Zack while kunot noo namang nakatitig si Zeyn sa katawan ko. My brows furrowed because of his look.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” I sounds worried.

“Tsk! Ngayon ko lang napansin. Bakit naman ganyan ang suot mo? Kitang-kita ang kaluluwa mo.” he said and tsked. Napatingin naman ako sa  suot ko at napa-irap na lang sa kawalan. Hindi naman masyadong revealing ’yung suot ko, though kita ’yung cleavage ko ng very light. He’s just overreacting.

Mabilis siyang naglakad papunta sa itaas na siyang kinagulat ko, pagbalik niya ay may dala-dala siyang gray t-shirt, I think its him.

“Suot mo. Tsk!” he said saka inabot sa ’kin ’yung damit na hawak niya. Para wala ng discussion ay sinuot ko na lang. This man is unbelievable. I sighed.

We started eating na while nag-uusap naman sila ni Zack about sa motor. Since wala naman akong alam sa motor ay kumain na lang ako ng kumain. After a couple of minutes ay natapos na kami sa pagkain and Zack insisted na siya ang maghuhugas ng pinggan. Umakyat na kami ni Zeyn sa kwarto niya.

He opened his AC then saka tumabi sa ’kin sa kama. He grabbed my waist and kissed me sa cheek pababa sa leeg ko at umangat papunta sa labi ko. Dahil nadadala sa ginagawa niya gumanti ako ng halik, dahan-dahan niya ’kong binuhat at nilagay sa lap niya. Ang maririnig lang sa buong kwarto niya ay ’yung tunog ng aircon at halikan namin.

“Hmm…” I moaned when his kisses went down to my neck. I craned my neck to the right side to give him more access.

“Kuya, binyagan na natin ’yung PS—”

Bigla akong napalayo kay Zeyn dahil sa biglaang pagpasok ni Zack. He gave us an awkward smile and I heard Zeyn’s groned. Tangkang lalabas na si Zack ng pigilan ko siya.

“Yeah, you’re right, Zack. I think you should open na ’yung PS5 para at least we know kung magandang quality ba ’yung nabili ko.” I smiled and look at Zeyn. His brows met kaya binigyan ko siya ng halik sa pisngi.

Walang nagawa si Zeyn kung hindi ang kunin ’yung PS5 niya at ni-set up na para makapaglaro sila ni Zack. Naupo si Zack sa kama katabi namin ni Zeyn.

Inumpisahan na nila ang maglaro at ang pwesto ko ay nasa pagitan ng hita ni Zeyn. Ang mga braso niya ay nakayakap sa ’kin at nakapatong ’yung chin niya sa left shoulder ko.

“Pustahan ’to, gago ka huh! Epal ka kahit kailan.” Zeyn said and Zack just chuckled of what he said. Napailing na lang ako.

I watched them playing while using my vape. I could say na pareho silang magaling maglaro but mas magaling talaga si Zeyn. Kanina pa nga niya tina-trash talk si Zack at gumaganti naman si Zack kapag napapatay niya si Zeyn.

“Apir, Reese! Napatay ko si Kuya.”

Akmang mag-aapir ako ay biglang hinawi ni Zeyn ang kamay ng kapatid niya and he gave Zack a glared look. Napailing ako sa ginawa niya.

“Seloso amp!”

It was past ten o’clock when I got home last night. This morning na ’yung shoot naman for the brand and I can’t say what I’m feeling right now. I don’t know if I’m nervous or excited at the same time.

Beside me is Zeyn wearing a plain white shirt and black shorts, he’s also wearing his blue cap. Hinalikan niya yung likod ng kamay ko bago kami bumaba sa kotse niya. We walked through the entrance ’nong studio na pagso-shoot-an. Sinalubong kami ng isang babae na nagpakilala na isa siya sa mga producer ng brand then ni-guide niya kami towards sa magiging make-up artist ko.

When we arrived there, I saw a moreno girl and her make-up artist is already doing her face. I smiled at her and she smiled back. Napatingin sila ng make-up artist sa lalaking nasa likod at nagkatinginan.

I sat sa isang camping chair while my make-up artist is arranging her things. “Love, ano gusto mong breakfast? Lalabas ako para bumili.”

I looked at Zeyn and smiled. “I want some coffee and bread lang.” he nodded and walked out from the studio.

“Is he your boyfriend?” the morena girl beside me asked. I looked at her and smiled.

“Not yet.” I answered her. Napatango tango naman siya saka tumawa ng mahina.

“Ow, he’s gwapo, huh! By the way I’m Danni and he’s Patty.” she said and pointed her make-up artist. Inumpisahan na ’nong make-up artist ko i-prep ’yung face ko and hindi naman ako nainip while she’s doing my make-up because Danni is so talkative.

My face is done and nakapagpalit na din kami ni Danni ng damit but Zeyn is still not here. Lumapit naman sa spot namin ’yung babaeng nag-approach sa ’min ni Zeyn kanina.

“Hi, girls. I’m Maris and I’m one of the excutive producer ng shoot na ’to and I’ll be your photograher as well. Let’s just wait for Ms. Miles, na-traffic lang daw sila ng team niya.” Maris said and we nodded lang ni Danni sa kanya. Kinausap na din niya kami about sa magiging flow ng shoot namin while waiting sa superstar.

Saktong pagkausap sa ’min ni Ms. Maris ay biglang bumukas ang door ng studio. Then there we saw Miles wearing her casual outfit and sunglasses, she’s with her assistant and make-up artist. The people here greeted her but she just walked through our spot. She smiled but her smile fade out when she saw me.

“Reese? It was nice meeting you here. Sorry I’m late, traffic kasi.” she said and plastered a fake smile. She sat and her make-up artist did her face.

Inuna na kaming i-shoot ni Ms. Maris while waiting for Miles, she’s getting ready palang kasi. Tig tatatlong lay out kami kaya saktong pagtapos namin ay si Miles na ang kinuhanan. Even she has an attitude, I could say that she’s professional ’cause natapos agad ang pag-shoot niya.

Naupo ulit siya sa camping chair niya habang nire-retouch siya ng make-up artist niya. “Sino ’yung lalaking nasa labas kanina?”

I heard what she said but hindi ko na lang pinansin. We all looked sa door ng bumukas iyon at niluwa ni Zeyn holding my coffee and bread. He walked towards my spot and gave my food. I smiled at him.

“Thanks.”

“Sorry, love, natagalan. Sa labas na kasi ’ko kumain nakakahiya kasi na kumain dito.” he said and I just smiled.

Ms. Maris called us once again para i-shoot kaming tatlo nila Danni and Miles. Naka-gitna si Miles habang nasa magkabilang gilid naman kami ni Danni. We’re holding ’yung item na ni-eendorse namin while posting infront of the camera.

Limang lay out ang gagawin namin and maaga pa kaya I think maaga namin matatapos ’yung shoot. After the first three lay outs ay napapansin ko ang pag utos-utos ni Miles kay Zeyn kahit na may assistant naman siya. I think hindi lang makatanggi si Zeyn because he’s shy. Hindi ko na lang din pinansin kahit kanina pa ’ko naiinis at kada magpapasalamat siya ay hinahaplos niya ’yung braso ni Zeyn. Flirt!

“It’s a wrap, guys!” Ms. Maris shouted kaya napangiti kami. Miles just sighed and went back sa pwesto namin kanina. Sabay na kami ni Danni naglakad papunta sa upuan namin.

“We’re done.” nakangiting sabi ko kay Zeyn. He smiled at me and grabbed my waist para yakapin. Bumulong siya sa tenga ko ng ‘ang gand-ganda mo’ kaya napangiti ako.

“Zeyn, right?” we both looked ni Zeyn sa nagsalita and there we saw Miles smiling at my man. I rolled my eyes in frustration. Tumango si Zeyn sa kanya at matamis naman ngumiti si Miles. “Can you get me a water. Please…”

I looked at her with my brows furrowed. What did she just said? Get her a water? This bitch. She’s getting in my nerves.

“Excuse me? No offense, Miles, but you have hand, right? Then why you just use it to get your own water? Kanina ko pa kasi napapansin na inuutusan mo ’tong boyfriend ko.” I sarcastically said and gave her a resting bitch face.

“You bitch!” she said and bago niya pa ’ko masugod ay pumasok na ’yung assistant niya at sinabing may taping pa daw siya. “Magkikita pa tayo sa susunod, may araw ka din sa ’kin.”

“I’ll see you there, then.” I said, smirking.

Nagtatrantums siyang lumabas ng studio kaya natawa na lang ako. Humarap ako kay Zeyn at nakatingin siya sa ’kin habang may mumunting ngiti sa labi.

“Anong sabi mo? Boyfriend mo ’ko?” he said, smiling.

“Why? Ayaw mo ba?”

“Fuck! Gusto ko, gustong-gusto ko. Girlfriend na talaga kita?” he said at hindi maalis ang ngiti sa labi niya. Tumango-tango ako. “Tangina! Ang ganda-ganda ng girlfriend ko.”

Napangiti ako sa sinabi niya, ’yan ang gusto ko, ’yung napapamura sa ganda ko. Finally, I’m commited after more than two years. I giggled.

Chapter 16

“Oh, are you going too?” Danni asked me when we saw her in a parking lot. We’re on our way pauwi sa Bulacan but we decided na mag-check in na muna sa madadaanan naming hotel para makapag-rest.

“Uh, yeah. It was nice working with you, Danni. And I hope to see you again. Bye! Take care.” I said before I kissed her cheek. She bid her hand saying her goodbye and mabilis na sumakay sa kotse niya. She even wave her hand to Zeyn and the latter just nodded at her.

When I eventually sat on the passenger seat. Zeyn leaned at me to give me a quick kiss and smiled. Napangiti naman ako dahil sa ngiti niya. Up until now he couldn’t believe that we’re already in relationship. Napapailing na lang ako kapag nangingiti siyang mag-isa. He looked insane.

Since we decided na mag-check in muna to take some rest. Pinasok niya sa isang hotel ’yung kotse para makapagpahinga na kami. I didn’t mention nga pala that we did our brand photoshoot here sa Manila kaya bumyahe pa kami for this. But I think its worth it because it has compensation. Kidding aside, I love doing this kind of work.

“Thank you.” I said after I took the key from the receptionist. We went to the elevator para mapadali ang pag-akyat namin sa magiging room namin.

After I opened the door, I looked at Zeyn. “Do you have extra clothes?” I asked. His forehead creased.

“Bakit?” he asked still his brows furrowed.

“Are you not going to take a bath? Maliligo kasi ako since I used to take a bath before I went to bed.” I explain and he just nodded his head.

“Meron akong dalang extra na t-shirt pero wala akong extrang shorts at brief.” he said and his gazed went down to his shorts. “Naligo naman ako kaninang umaga kaya malinis pa ’to, ito na lang siguro ang susuotin ko tas hindi na lang ako magsusuot ng underwear.” napangisi siya sa huling sinabi.

I just rolled my eyes at him before I went straight to the bathroom. Nagpaalam naman siyang sa balcony muna while I’m taking a bath, hihipak muna daw siya.

Medyo napatagal ang pagligo ko since I double cleanse my face because I’m wearing a make-up. After I took a bath, I did all my kaartihans sa face and body then I wore my black satin night dress.

Pagkalabas ko ng pinto, I walked towards the balcony para papaliguin na si Zeyn. Since the door is glass, I saw him manspreading in his sit while manly hitting his vape. I swallowed hard because of the view. Hottie!

“Maligo ka na, may towel ’don sa cabinet.” I said ng buksan ko ’yung glass door. He look at me and stood up.

“Okay po, madame.” he said, smirking. Napairap naman ako habang nangingiti. Nang makalapit pa siya sa akin ay matunog niya ’kong hinalikan sa pisngi habang natatawang pumasok sa loob ng banyo. I chuckled.

While he is taking a bath, I decided to go to the ground floor to buy him underwear and new shorts as well. I also bought a new pair of my underwear because I find it pretty. I giggled.

Pagkapasok ko sa room namin ay saktong paglabas niya sa comfort room. He’s wearing a black oversized shirts and his shorts earlier.

“Sa’n ka galing?” he asked.

“I bought you a shorts and brief sa ground floor.” I answered and walked towards his spot. Inabot ko sa kanya ’yung binili ko at kinuha naman niya.

“Hindi naman na ’to kailangan. Pero salamat, love.” ani niya saka pumasok ulit sa banyo para magbihis.

I went to the bed naman para mahiga na, I feel tired. Nakakapagod din talaga magmaganda sa harap ng camera. A lot of people think na madali lang maging isang model or endorser but it’s not. Especially if your workmates has an attitude ang hirap nilang pakisamahan. But this is what I love to do, so I will pursue this job.

I craned my neck to the left side ng maramdaman kong gumalaw ang kama. It’s Zeyn, and the shorts really suits him.

“Halika nga dito yakapin mo ’ko.” he uttered and mabilis akong hinila papalapit sa kanya. He hugged me tightly kaya siniksik ko ’yung ulo ko sa dibidib niya. I sniffed him and damn! He really smells good. “Tulog muna tayo, love. Aga natin nagising para bum’yahe, eh.”

Magkayakap kaming natulog and pagmulat ng mata ko ay nakayakap pa rin ang braso niya sa bewang ko. Naramdaman ko ’yung gutom kaya nagpadeliver ako ng pagkain sa room namin. Hindi pa nga pala kami nagla-lunch.

After a couple of minutes ay may kumatok sa door namin kaya dahan-dahan kong inalis ’yung kamay ni Zeyn sa bewang ko. I checked my face if I look presentable, then when I saw in the mirror that I still look good ay binuksan ko ’yung pinto.

“One thousand five hundred eighty-nine po lahat, ma’am.” the guy said and I gave him my bayad naman. Akmang isosoli niya pa ’yung sukli ng pinigilan ko siya.

“No, kuya, it’s okay. Sa’yo na po ’yan.” I said, smiling. Nagpasalamat naman siya bago umalis kaya sinarado ko na ’yung pinto.

Inilapag ko muna sa lamesa ’yung pagkain and I walked towards the bed. Tinapik ko sa pisngi si Zeyn para magising siya. Since medyo mababaw siya matulog ay nagmulat agad siya ng mata.

“Let’s eat. We still not eating lunch.” I said and tumayo naman siya kaya naupo na kami sa upuan para kumain.

While we were eating we just talked ’yung about sa shoot. Kung pa’no daw ako nakuha ’don, kung kilala ko daw ba si Miles, at marami pa siyang tinanong. I just answered his question and he was shocked when I told him na si Miles ang naging kabit dati ni Clarence.

After namin kumain ay napagdesisyon naming manuod ng movie sa Netflix. Nakayakap siya sakin from behind while I’m resting my head in his chest. When the movie reach its end, inaya ko siya na mag-mirror shot para makapag-story sa IG. I sat on his lap habang nakayakap paharap sa kanya. Nakatalikod siya sa salamin habang inaamoy amoy ’yung leeg ko. I story the shot on my IG story then I caption it we’re official.

A lot of people replied on my story. Sinabihan pa ’ko ni Yohan at Edward na mayabang sa GC namin and I just reacted ‘haha’ to their message. Even Kuya Kierr replied to my story which is madalang mangyari dahil hindi naman ’yon ma-social media na tao.

itskianfontanilla:

i want to meet him, huhusgahan ko lang kung pasado ba para sayo ;)

I chuckled to his replied and I just replied ‘sure, messages me kung when hahaha’. He didn’t reply naman na so I lay next to Zeyn. We cuddled once again and we made the decision to watch a movie till my eyes started to close.

“Bitch, may jowa ka na talaga?” Louis asked while we were in pool sa house namin. They decided kasi ni Claire na magsleep over dito sa house para makichismis sa life ko.

“Yes nga! Kulit mo.” I said kaya natawa naman si Claire sa tabi niya. After akong ihatid ni Zeyn kanina ay bigla na lang sumulpot itong dalawa na ’to dito sa house.

“Girl, bring him sa birthday ni Yohan. Kailangan ipakilala mo siya in person sa ’min.” Claire said. My eyes went to her dahil sa sinabi niya.

“When is his birthday again?” I asked, frowning.

“Two weeks from now and sa Xylo yata gaganapin, not sure pa. Magiging legal age na siya. Gosh! He’s not minor anymore.” Claire said, giggling. I just shrugged my shoulder and uminom sa wine glass ko.

Nag-dive ako sa pool kaya nagulat ’yung dalawa sa ginawa ko. Tatawa-tawa naman akong naglangoy papunta sa side nila. Inirapan nila kong dalawa kaya natawa ulit ako. I took my phone para magsend ng selfie kay Zeyn. Sakto naka-bra lang ako. I chuckled.

zey_em:

yummy ;p

zey_em:

i miss you, love :(

I sighed while rolling my eyes because of his reply. He’s being clingy again, kanina lang magkasama kami and now he’s saying that he miss me? Bolero! But I admit that his messages gave shivers down my spine.

“Ang sarap naman ni Kuya Kierr.” Louis suddenly said. We both look ni Claire sa kanya. Pinakita niya sa ’min ’yung story ni Kuya Kierr sa IG habang minamaneho ’yung kotse niya. He’s into cars kasi talaga.

“Bakla, ’di ba may Edward ka na? Napakalande mo talaga.” Claire said kaya bigla namang namula si Louis. Natawa ko dahil mukhang kinikilig na siya kay Edward.

“Gaga! Ni-appreciate ko lang naman ’yung kagwapuhan ni Kuya Kierr. ’Tsaka totoo namang maburap siya sa story niya. Duh!”

I don’t mind them at nag-swimming na lang ako. After naming maligo sa swimming pool ay nagbanlaw na kami sa banyo para makapagchikahan pa sa kwarto ko. We wore a cute silk satin pajama’s na pare-pareho ang style but in different colors.

“Grabe talaga, sis. Lasing na lasing siya kagabi. Weak, eh.” Louis said while we we’re watching the video on her phone. It’s Claire that already wasted and singing nonstop kahit bulol-bulol na ’yung pananalita siya.

“Yabang mo sa weak ako, huh! Lima lang naman tayo tas naka-three and a half tayong Cuervo. Of course malalasing talaga ko!” Claire defensively said. I chuckled at her.

“Eh, ba’t hindi man lang ako nalasing?” mayabang na sabi ni Louis kaya napa-irap kami ni Claire sa kanya. Well, sila talaga kasi ni Primo ang may pinaka-high tolerance when it comes in alcohol.

“Kaya pala nakita ko kayong naghahalikan ni Edward sa gilid kagabi.” Claire fired back and smirked. Louis was too stunned to speak that made me laugh so hard. This bitch!

“Whatever, bitch!”

We continue talking ramdom things and inabot kami ng madaling araw kakachikahan kaya nagpadeliver pa kami ng grab, nag-crave kasi kami ng shawarma. Hindi din kami nakapag-video call ni Zeyn because I told him na dito matutulog ’yung dalawa. Ayoko naman kasing makita nila kung gaano ako kapabebe kapag kausap ko si Zeyn.

Tomorrow morning, after lunch na when Claire and Louis decided to go home. When I’m about to went upstairs, I saw Rei wearing a casual outfit. It seems that she has an errand.

“Hey, where you going?” I asked.

She smiled and answered. “We have coffee date ni Trisha, I’ll be back before six, I guess. I’m with Mang Andoy naman don’t worry.”

I nodded my head and after that ay lumabas na siya ng bahay. When I arrived inside my room, tumunog ’yung phone ko sign na may nag-text.

Love:

kainip sa bahay, love. sunduin kita d’yan sa inyo tas labas tayo.

Ako:

okay, but mga five na. mainit e.

He replied ‘okay’ and he asked pa what I’m doing. After we talked ng sandali sa text, I decided to get sleep ’cause napuyat ako kagabi sa chikahan namin ng girls.

Nagising ako ay bandang four na. I immediately went to the bathroom and took a bath. After that, I did all my routines and decided to wear a pink puff sleeve dress na above the knee ang length. I ponytailed my hair into half ponytail and naglagay ako ng ribbon. I scanned myself sa mirror and I looked cute.

“Where we going?” I asked him while I’m sitting in the passenger seat. He look quickly at me and mabilis na bumalik sa daan ang tingin.

“Secret muna, love.” sagot niya kaya marahan na lang ako napatango. I opened his speaker and ni-connect ko ’yung bluetooth ng phone ko para magpatugtog. I scanned him while driving, he’s wearing a plain navy blue shirts and partnered by cream taslan shorts, and his two strap slippers.

After a not so long drive ay nakarating na din kami sa lugar kung sa’n niya napili mag-picnic. The place are peaceful and calming, malamig din ang simoy ng hangin dahil maraming puno sa paligid habang ang lupa ay madamo na siyang pwedeng paglatagan ng carpet.

“Ang ganda dito, love.” I uttered. Napatingin siya sa ’kin na may ngiti sa labi at mabilis akong niyakap saka hinalikan sa leeg. I giggled because I felt his beard.

“Mas maganda ka… mabango pa.” he seductively said and kissed my neck again. Humiwalay na ’ko sa kanya dahil baka sa’n pa kami mapunta.

Inayos niya ’yung carpet na paglalagyan ng pagkain namin and kung saan kami mauupo. Nakaupo na kami ng mapansin kong walang tao na pumupunta dito, but this place is beautiful.

“Bakit walang ibang tao?” I asked, frowning. He looked at me and smirked.

“Bakit natatakot ka ba?” natatawa niyang sabi kaya umiling ako. “Hindi naman kasi ’to pasyalan, aksidente lang namin ’tong natuklasan nila Kuya ’nong bata pa kami nila Zack at kada gusto kong mag-isip isip ay dito ako pumupunta.”

“Oh, okay.”

Inumpisahan na namin kumain habang nagkukwentuhan. Kahit na minsan ay puro siya kalokohan, I could say that he has substance and sense of humor.

“Ano kukunin mong course sa college?” he asked while chewing his food. Napatingin naman ako sa kanya at nilapag ang baso na may lamang softdrinks.

“I want to pursue Film Degree. I don’t know why, but since I was young that’s my dream. I feel like na ’don ako nararapat at iyon ang para sakin, maybe nakatulong din ’yung pagkagusto ko sa gano’ng bagay because my Mom was a former actress and now is a film maker.” I said and smiled. Napatango-tango naman siya. “Uhm, you. What’s your dream destination?”

“Ako? Wala naman pero ’yung lolo’t lola ko gusto nilang mapuntahan ’yung Japan… kaya pinangako ko sa kanila na kapag kumikita na ’ko ng pera, dadalhin ko sila ’don.” he said, smiling. He really know how to melt my heart. Ugh, this man!

“I went there once, maganda ’don and masarap din ’yung ramen nila.” I said kaya mukha siyang namangha. Nangiti naman ako. “Uhm, where’s your grandpa and grandma?”

“Uh, nasa Batangas. Magulang ’yon ni Mama, ’yung lolo at lola namin namin kay Papa ay wala na, maliit pa kami ni Kuya ’nong mamatay sila, hindi na nga naabutan ’yon ni Zack.”

Marahan akong napatango-tango. “Uhm, ’yung grandparents mo sa Batangas. Sino kasama nila ’don? You lived there ba before?”

“Sila lang dalawa. Hindi ako tumira ’don, nagbabakasyon lang kami dati ’don t’wing walang pasok tas kapag malapit na ’yung pasukan, babalik na ulit kami dito. Maganda ’don, payapa at tahimik.”

“You miss them?” I asked, sadly. Ramdam ko kasi ’yung pananabik niya sa lolo’t lola niya. Napangiti naman siya sa ’kin bago nagsalita.

“Oo naman. Alam mo bang paboritong apo ’ko ’nong mga ’yon?” masaya niyang sabi kaya napangiti ako. “Kaya nga ’nong nalaman nilang may girlfriend na ulit ako ay tuwang-tuwa sila.”

Doon ako natahimik, its scared me. What if hindi nila ’ko matanggap for their apo because I’m Trans? Nakakapraning lalo na’t matanda sila sa una, and we know ’yung paniniwala ’nong mga matatanda. I heaved a deep sigh.

“Uhm… they know about us?” I asked and he nodded. “They know my gender identity? Do you tell them that I’m a Trans? Anong sabi nila?” sunod-sunod kong tanong.

“Hey,” he grabbed my hands and kissed the back of it. “’Wag kang mag-alala, tanggap nila ’yung relasyon natin. Kaya nga sa Biyernes, pupunta tayo ’don… gusto ka daw nilang makilala ng personal.”

Chapter 17

“Bakit, love, hindi ka ba nag-try magyosi kahit kelan? Vape lang talaga?” he said while holding the steering wheel because we’re on our way home. It’s getting late na din kasi.

“Nag-try but it’s just one month because I discovered vape. I know that they not both good in health but at least mababa ’yung nicotine sa vape. Tsk!” I answered with my brows furrowed.

We’re fighting because I told him to stop smoking cigarette dahil nagve-vape naman siya. Doble-doble ang pinang-susunog niya sa baga niya. I inhaled deeply.

I felt that he staring at me because I can see in my peripheral vision that he’s looking at me. “Okay, ta-try kong tigilan na at mag-vape na lang, ’wag ka ng magalit d’yan. Parang hindi nanigarilyo. Tsk!”

Napairap na lang ako at hindi na siya tinignan pa. I know naman na hindi maganda sa katawan ’yung cigarette and vape but I rather choose vape than cigarette, mas masarap pa. Joke! But having said that kidding aside. Please to all vapers out there, vape responsibly.

“Nandito na tayo.” he said so I unbuckled the seatbelt and I opened the door. Napabalik naman ako sa loob ng hilahin niya ’ko pabalik. He kissed my forehead and gave me a puffy eyes. “Promise! Ta-try kong ’wag ng mag-yosi at vape na lang talaga. Pero ’wag naman biglaan, love. Hmmm…”

I nodded my head and gave him a kiss. Saktong pagbaba ko sa kotse ay may tumawag sa ’kin. I craned my neck to the side and I saw Rei holding a paper bag that has a logo of café na pinuntahan niya.

“Ate!” she yelled and nang makalapit ay yumakap. “I bought you pasalubong because their banana bread is to die for!” she said and giggled.

I chuckled because of her reaction but I realized something. “Thank you but where’s Mang Andoy? Sino naghatid sa’yo?”

“He’s here na kanina pa, Ate. I told him na ihahatid na lang ako ni Trish kaya pinauna ko ng umuwi. He’s kawawa naman if he waited me there for hours.” she said while pouting her lips. I sighed.

“Love.” Zeyn uttered and we looked him ni Rei. I saw how my sister’s eyes widen. Napalunok naman ako.

“Uhm… Rei, si Zeyn, my boyfriend. Love, si Rei, my younger sister.” pagpapakilala ko sa kanilang dalawa at ngumiti naman si Rei ng pagkalaki-laki habang nakangiting tumango si Zeyn at naglahad ng kamay. Nag-shake hands sila.

“Nice to meet you, Kuya. Ah, why don’t you just join us in dinner.” Rei suddenly said. Nagkatinginan kami at binigyan ko siya ng nagtatakang tingin and the latter just shrugged.

“Hindi n—”

“She’s right. Dito ka na mag-dinner, love.” I cutted him kaya wala na siyang nagawa kung hindi ipasok ang kotse niya sa garage namin.

He seems shy kaya I teased him pa na don’t be tense dahil wala naman ’yung parents ko here and mga kasambahay lang namin ang nandito. Pagpasok namin sa bahay ay sinalubong kami ni Manang Ine and she was shocked when I introduced Zeyn to her.

We went straight sa room ko because the dinner is not yet cook. Pagpasok namin ay malamig dahil hindi ko naman pinapatay ’yung AC sa room ko, split type kasi and I read that mas makakatipid sa electricity kapag madalang siya na patayin. I don’t know if its true, after all hindi naman ako ang nagbabayad ng kuryente. I chuckled.

“Uhm, gonna change my clothes lang.” I muttered and he just nodded. Palinga-linga pa rin siya sa kwarto ko kaya hinayaan ko na lang siya habang naiiling. He looked impressed.

After changing my clothes sa closet ay lumabas na ’ko and I saw him holding my school ID. Bigla naman akong na-concious dahil ang panget ko ’don. This jerk! Ang pakialamero!

“Love! Why you holding my ID?!” I yelled and kinuha sa kanya ’yung ID ko. Buti na alang ay hindi mahigpit ang pagkakahawak niya kaya naagaw ko sa kanya agad. “Ang panget ko pa naman here. Argh!”

His eyes went mine and smirked. “Ang unfair nga, eh. Sabi nila panget daw kadalasan sa ID. Bakit ang ganda mo d’yan?”

I rolled my eyes because I felt my cheeks heated. He really knows how to tame me. “Bolero!”

“Totoo nga! Pero ang tunay mo palang pangalan ay Reese Jan Fontanilla. Eh di dapat RJ ang nickname mo.” he said wiggling his brows and burst out laughing. His teasing me naman kaya agad ko siyang hinampas sa braso. “Aray! Sadista talaga. Tsk!”

He kept calling me that nickname kaya ilang beses ko siyang hinampas sa braso pero tatawa lang naman ang bwisit. Kuhang-kuha niya inis ko. I sighed.

“Ugh! Stop calling me that. Its gross.” I groaned but he didn’t stop and continue teasing me. Pero natigil siya sa kakaasar sa ’kin ng may kumatok sa pinto ng kwarto ko at bumukas.

“Luto na ’yung hapunan. Kain na kayo, Reese.” its Ate Sarah. She smiled at us and saka sinara ulit ’yung pintuan ng kwarto ko. Inaya ko naman ng kumain si Zeyn at saka kami naglakad papuntang dinning area.

The dinner went smooth and hindi sila natigil ni Rei sa kakausap dahil may pinag-uusapan silang hero sa Mobile Legends na hindi ko naman alam kung sino. Hindi naman sumabay sa amin sila Mang Ine and Ate Sarah dahil mga busog pa daw sila. But I know na nahihiya lang sila because Zeyn is here.

After he bid his goodbye that night, Manang and Ate Sarah asked me kung kelan daw naging kami and I told them na kahapon lang. They complimented Zeyn pa na ang gwapo daw and ang manly but I won’t tell that to Zeyn dahil lalaki lang ulo ’non dahil napuri ng mga tao sa bahay.

I figure it out that when you’re happy, hindi mo talaga mapapansin na lumilipas ang oras. Two days had passed when Zeyn ate dinner in our house. And today ay half day lang kami until Friday because the faculty will having a meeting regarding sa graduation and recognition.

“Uy, bitch! Tambay daw kila Edward, ano g kaba?” Louis said and I looked at her. I’m fixing my things dahil uwian na. Napatingin naman ako sa boys at may pinag-uusapan sila while Claire is busy typing on her phone screen.

“Ah, sorry. May usapan kasi kami ni Zeyn today, I’m gonna watch his practice sa pool stadium. Next time.” I said and gave her a timid smile. She just shrugged her shoulder.

“Okay, Miss Next Time. Nakalimutan ko may boyfriend ka na nga pala.” she said atsaka tumalikod sa akin. I heaved a deep sigh.

“Louis, it is not what you think, okay? Wrong timing lang ’yung aya mo since kagabi pa ’ko nakapag-yes kay Zeyn.” I muttered.

“I’m just kidding, girl. Keri lang na hindi ka sumama, sabi mo nga next time na lang. Half day pa naman tayo hanggang Friday kaya may ibang araw pa. Sige, enjoy ka ’don sa practice. Mwuaa.” she said atsaka mabilis na bumeso sa akin.

After we bid goodbye to each other ay agad akong naglakad papuntang pool stadium. I took out my phone from my pocket and may text si Zeyn, nasa pool stadium na daw siya. I typed my reply.

Ako:

i’m on my way there, see you ;)

When I arrived in pool stadium, I saw a lot of familiar faces and some of them are greeting me so I did. I roamed my eyes to the surrounding and agad ko namang nakita si Zeyn at ng magkatinginan kami ay ngumiti siya at lumapit sa akin.

“Hi, kumain ka na?” he asked when he arrived in my spot. I shook my head kaya napakunot ang noo niya. “Hindi ka ba nagugutom? Bibili muna kitang pagkain, hindi pa naman magsisimula ’yung practice.”

“Uh, no need. I’m still fool, halos kakakain lang namin nila Louis.” I said. Tinitigan niya pa ’ko kung nagsasabi ba ’ko ng totoo pero bumuntong hininga na lang siya sa huli. But I’m telling the truth, I’m still fool because we ate snacks kanina sa caféteria.

Pinaupo niya ’ko kung nasaan ang gamit niya at sinabing ’wag akong aalis doon, tumango naman ako na parang batang pinagbibilinan. The practice started and pum’westo na siya habang inaayos ’yung swimming trunks and goggles. I remember that last time I watched him, I thought sa ’kin siya ngumingiti at kumakaway but it turns out that it’s all for the girl behind me. What an embarrassment. Fudge!

Okay naman ang naging practice nila and everytime na umaahon siya ay pumupunta siya sa p’westo ko para magpunas gamit ang towel niya. Napapatingin nga ’yung ibang nanunuod ng practice but hindi naman nagsasalita.

Marami-rami din ang nanunuod and I thought sa gymnassium lang maraming babae ang nanunuod pero marami din here. Well, I’m not surprised at all because the swimmer athlete here in our school are all good looking.

Nagpalakpakan ang mga tao kaya nakipalakpak na rin ako, tapos na ang practice nila. My gazed went to Zeyn and palapit na sana siya sa ’kin ng biglang siyang tawagin ng coach nila. He mouthed ‘wait lang’ and I nodded.

I’m fixing Zeyn’s things when someone spoke from behind. “Well, long time no see, Reese. How are you?!”

Napatingin ako sa nagsalita and I saw the familiar face of Rex, he’s wet because he’s also a swimmer athlete. He’s smiling at me and I just gave him a timid smile.

“I’m good.” I muttered.

“Bakit yata wala kang kasama? Would you mind if I asked you out for a coffee?” he said, smirking. Ngayon ko lang na-realize ’yung kayabangan niya sa katawan at nagsisisi akong naging hook-up ko siya. Bullshit!

“No, thanks.” sabi ko at saka tumalikod sa kanya para ayusin na ulit ’yung gamit ni Zeyn.

He chuckled. “Ay ayaw mo nga pala ng gano’n. May alam akong malapit na motel d’yan. Three hours tayo sagot ko na. Iyót na iyót lang kasi ako.”

“What did you say?” I faced him and glared at him. He just chuckled and held my waist. Mabilis ko namang tinanggal ’yon.

“Ow… may isa pa ’kong condom sa wallet, sakto magagamit natin.” he chuckled once again and I glared at him. “’Wag ka ng magpakipot na akala mo hindi ka umun—”

I was shocked ng bigla na lang siyang bumagsak sa floor dahil may malakas na sumuntok sa mukha niya. Agad naman siyang tumayo habang pinupunasan ’yung dugo sa labi niya. Tumingin siya ng masama kay Zeyn habang umiigting ang panga.

“Tangina anong problema mo, pare?!” Rex asked.

“Hawakan mo ulit ang girlfriend ko, hindi lang ’yan ang matitkman mo sa susunod. Tangina ka!” Zeyn said arrogantly while clenching his jaw. I held Zeyn’s arm kaya napatingin siya sakin.

“Girlfriend mo ’yan?! P’wes tanong mo sa girlfriend mo kung ga’no siya kalakas umungol ’nong tinitira ko siya.” Rex uttered, smirking. Nakita ko naman kung pa’no manlisik ang mata at umigting ang panga ni Zeyn.

“Anong sabi mong gago ka! Tangina mo pala, eh. Tarantado!!” Zeyn madly said saka malakas na pinagsusuntok sa mukha si Rex.

“Zeyn! Stop!” I shouted pero hindi siya nakinig at pinagpatuloy ang pagsuntok sa mukha ni Rex.

Dahil hindi ko sila maawat ay lumapit na sa ’min ’yung ibang tao. Buti na lang ay naawat nila si Zeyn dahil kung hindi ay baka matapay niya si Rex. Hindi ko namalayan na naiiyak na pala ’ko.

“Sa susunod na bastusin mo ’yung girlfriend ko, papatayin na kitang gago ka!” sabi pa ni Zeyn atsaka dinuraan sa mukha si Rex. He held my arms atsaka hinila palabas ng pool stadium.

Bumuhos na ng tuluyan ang luha ko pagpasok namin ng kotse niya. My tears can’t stop from falling because I feel humiliated. I want to blame myself from doing that things with someone like Rex. Pakiramdam ko ang dumi-dumi ko. I sobbed.

“Tangina!” Zeyn cursed kaya napakislot ako sa gulat. “Hindi ka na manunuod ulit ng practice ko. Hindi ka aalis ng hindi ako kasama. Hindi ka na magsusuot ng maiikling shorts at crop top. Dahil sa susunod na mabastos ka, sinasabi ko sa’yo… makakapatay ako. Naiintindihan mo ba, RJ?!” he said and faced me. He looked still pissed.

I sobbed, bigla naman lumambot ang mukha niya. “Y-yes… I’m sorry, I got you in trouble.”

“Shh… tahan na. Tandaan mo, makikipagpatayan ako kapag ikaw na ang usapan.” malambing niyang sabi saka ako hinalikan sa labi. “Mahal na mahal kita.”

When I arrived in our house, I went straight to my room and took a bath. Until now, pakiramdam ko ang dumi-dumi kong babae dahil lang sa impulsive decision ko. I cried under the shower at umahon lang ako ng wala ng luha na lumalabas sa mata ko. I looked at my reflection in the mirror and my eyes are swollen. I inhaled deeply.

Nang makahiga ako sa kama, I decided to call Louis because I need someone to talk. She immediately answer my call.

[Yes, bitch. Anong problema at napa— Teka! Ba’t namumugto ’yung mata mo? Anong nangyari? Care to tell me?] she said.

“Rex h-humiliated me kanina sa pool stadium and Zeyn got in t-trouble because of that…” I said and my tears started to fall again. I immediately wiped it.

[The fuck?! That asshole! Kapal ng mukha!]

I told her kung ano ’yung mga sinabi ni Rex sa ’kin kanina and she so mad about it. “Pakiramdam ko ang d-dumi-dumi k-ko… And I’m so ashamed for Zeyn because she had girlfriend like me.”

[Hey, no! You’re not. What happened in the past is already done kaya don’t feel that. And I’m telling you magiging marumi ka lang kung nagpagamit ka sa kanya habang commited ka kay Zeyn. And stop blaming yourself, dapat ang sisihin dito ’yung mga lalaking bastos kagaya niyang si Rex. Tangina niya!]

We continue talking and thanks to her because I felt at ease kahit papaano. Zeyn called me pa but I didn’t answer his call and instead I messages him that I’m sleepy. Thank gosh dahil hindi naman siya nangulit.

Friday came and today ang alis namin papuntang Batangas. Since half day lang kami today ay napagpasyahan naming after class na kami bum’yahe. I’m feeling okay now because I realized na hindi ko naman na kasalan ’yung pagiging bastos ni Rex, I heard that he’s not attending his class dahil nagpapagaling siya sa sugat na nakuha niya sa suntok ni Zeyn. Well, I think dasurv!

Dumaan muna kami sa bahay para kunin ’yung gamit ko. Nilagay niya sa likod ng sasakyan ’yung mga gamit namin atsaka humarap sa ’kin habang nakahawak pa sa likod na pintuan ng kotse.

“Love, hanggang Linggo lang naman tayo ’don. Bakit isang maleta naman ang dala mo, baka akalain nila Lola tinanan na kita. Okay lang din naman sa ’kin.” he said, chuckling. I rolled my eyes to him then I leaned forward.

“Uh, thank you for being my safe and sane. I love you.” malambing kong sabi atsaka ngumiti. Napangisi naman siya at nag-iwas ng tingin.

“Tsk! ’Wag kang ganyan, love, kinikilig ako hindi bagay.” he said and chuckled. Napailing na lang ako habang nangingiti. Sumakay na kami sa sasakyan dahil nag uumpisa na naman ang sakit niya. Kidding!

I decided to wear navy blue button polo and I tucked in sa high waisted white mid-length shorts, I partnered it to my Christian Dior diorac sandals in white lambskin and I wore sunglasses from Gucci. Nakakahiya naman kasi kung masyadong sexy ang isusuot ko, baka conservative ’yung grandparents niya.

We decided na mag-drive thru na lang sa isang fast food for our lunch. Hindi din naman nagtagal ang byahe namin and after two hours ay nakarating na kami sa bahay ng grandparents niya, he even told me na kung hindi siya mabagal mag-drive ay baka one hour and thirty minutes lang ang byahe. He’s arrogant as always. Tsk!

He parked his car malapit sa malaking puno and I immediately went out from the passenger seat, I roamed my eyes to the surrounding and I can’t help but to amaze to this place. It’s calming.

Ang bahay ng grandparents niya ay medyo malaking lumang bahay. ’Yung bahay na matagal ng nakatayo, ganon ang itsura. Malamig sa paligid dahil maraming puno at sa likod ay kitang-kita ang palayan. I wonder kung sa kanila din ba iyon.

“Tara pasok na tayo sa loob, love.” he said after niyang mababa ’yung mga gamit namin. I faced him and smiled. I heaved a deep sigh because I’m a little bit nervous. Gosh!

“Let’s go.”

I encircled my arms to his biceps and we walked towards the front door. He knocked three times and the door open. Sumalubong sa ’min ang isang matanda na mukhang nasa mid 60’s, ito na siguro ang Lola niya. Her smile bigger when she saw Zeyn and she hugged him tightly kaya napatagal ang pagkakahawak ko sa braso ni Zeyn.

“Apo! Ay jusko salamat naman at nakarating ka ng ligtas.” masayang sabi ng Lola niya matapos bumitaw sa yakap.

“’La, na-miss po kita. Nasa’n po ang Lolo? Marami kaming pasalubong sa iny—” hindi na natapos ni Zeyn ang sinasabi niya dahil nakatitig na sa akin ngayon ang matandang babae, I can’t read her eyes. I bite my lower lip as I feel my heart beating so fast.

“G-good a-afternoon po…” I stuttered and I think that the most embarrassing thing I did in my entire life. Fuck!

I faced Zeyn when the old lady in front of us didn’t say anything. Zeyn gave me a timid smile then encircled his arm on my waist while his eyes is giving me assurance.

“Uh, ’La, si Reese po…. girlfriend ko.”

Chapter 18

“’La?” Zeyn called her. His Lola gulped atsaka siya tinignan. Kinakabahan pa rin ako dahil sa istura ng Lola niya. I took a deep breath as I feel my heartbeat fast once more.

“Ay pasensya ka na, apo. Ako’y nabigla la-ang sa kagandahan ng iyong nobya. Napakagandang bata.” the old lady said. She smiled at me and so I did. “Pasok kayo, pasok.”

“Nakakatulala naman kasi talaga ang ganda mo.” Zeyn whispered in my ear. I looked at him and I saw him smirking. Kinurot ko ang braso niya kaya napa-aray na naman siya. Ang bolero kasi. Tsk!

We entered their house at mas lalo akong na-amaze dahil ang linis-linis at malamig ang sahig na kahoy nila. This house is simple yet calming and relaxing. Very probinsya vibe talaga.

“Caloy! Nandito na ang apo mo, may kasamang nobya.” his Lola yelled. Halata sa boses nito ang saya sa huling salitang binanggit. Napuno ng saya ang puso ko. Aww!

“Sandale, Felma! Palabas na ’ko, diyan.” malakas na bigkas ng Lolo Caloy niya. Napailing na lang si Lola Felma bago humarap ulit sa amin. I smiled at her.

“Sandali la-ang at ipaghahanda ko kayo ng meryenda.” Lola Felma said. We nodded our head kaya naglakad na siya papuntang kitchen.

I faced Zeyn ng bigla niyang kunin ang mga gamit namin. “Ilalagay ko lang sa kwarto. Hintayin mo na lang ako d’yan.”

He walked towards the room while holding our things. Tahimik na lang akong naupo sa upuan na kahoy para hintayin silang bumalik. Hindi naman nagtagal ay bumalik silang tatlo sa sala, nagmano ako sa Lolo niya matapos kong batiin.

Lola Felma brought us a bread and orange juice. Tahimik lang akong kumakain habang nagkakamustahan silang tatlo. Sasagot lang naman ako kapag tinatanong sila sa akin. Medyo nahihiya pa rin ako sa kanila but I could say that their kind and hospitable.

“Alam mo ba iyang apo namin ay na-trauma matapos mamatay ang nanay niya. Siya kasi ang kasama nang maba —”

“’La!” Zeyn cutted Lola Felma that made my brows furrowed. I faced Zeyn and he gave me a timid smile. I sighed and shrugged my head. Baka ayaw niya lang pag-usapan.

“Nga pala, apo. Mag-inom tayong tatlo nila Tito Jose mo mamayang gabi. Wala pa kasi siya riyan at gumawa sa sentro.” Lolo Caloy suddenly said.

“Ikaw talaga, Caloy! Puro inom ang nasa isip mo. Dinadamay mo pa sa pagiging lasenggero itong apo natin.” ani ni Lola Felma at saka binigyan ng masamang tingin si Lolo Caloy. But the latter just smirked at her. Alam ko na ngayon kung saan nagmana si Zeyn. I giggled.

“Pangga, paminsan-minsan la-ang naman iyon. Hindi ba, apo?” Lolo Caloy said, smirking. Nakangisi din namang tumango si Zeyn sa Lolo niya. Napailing na lang ako.

“Oh s’ya, kayo’y mamahinga na muna sa kwarto at ako ang magliligpit nito.” Lola Felma uttered. Tumayo naman kami matapos sabihin iyon ni Lola Felma.

Pumasok kami sa magiging kwarto namin. I turned my eyes around and I could say na kasya naman sa dalawang tao ang kwarto na ’to. Habang nilalabas ko isa-isa ang gamit sa maleta ay naramdaman ko ang pagyakap ni Zeyn sa likudan ko.

He sniffed my ear down to my neck. I shut my eyes tight because of the sensation. Nagdilat lang ako ng mata ng huminto siya sa ginagawang pagsinghot sa leeg ko.

“Haharap lang ako mamaya kina Lolo at Tito. Hindi naman kami maglalasingan, chill lang. Hmm…” malambing niyang sabi atsaka humalik sa pisngi ko. I nodded my head.

“Its okay. Like what Lolo Caloy said, minsanan lang naman ’yon.” I said as I faced him. Ngumiti siya bago ako tinulungan ayusin ang mga gamit ko.

While we are fixing my stuff, he faced me and sighed. “Hindi ka ba maiinip dito? Wala kaming WiFi.”

My brow arched, then I smirked. “Tsk! Excuse me, naka-line ’yung phone ko.”

“Yabang! Sorry po, nakalimutan ko nga palang anak mayaman ka.” he teased atsaka nagkibit balikat. Napairap naman ako.

“Uhm, before I lay down sa bed. Gusto kong maligo muna… hindi kasi talaga ko sanay ng hindi bagong ligo kapag mahihiga sa kama.” I said nang maiba ang usapan.

“Okay, sabay na tayo.” he said wiggling his brows and smirked. Naipaikot na naman tuloy ang mata ko dahil sa sinabi niya.

“Love! What do you think your grandparents will think kapag sabay na tayong naligo?” I said raising my brow. He just burst out laughing.

“Sa may poso naman sa likod tayo maliligo. Hindi mo kaya magbomba at ang payat-payat ng braso mo. Tsk!” he uttered. My eyes widen, hindi pa ko nakakaligo sa poso. “Nakaligo ka na ba sa poso?”

“Not yet, and beside my arms are not thin no! Its called barbie arms. Hmp!” I said and rolled my eyes. His brows met.

“A-ano? B-barbie arms?” nagtataka niyang tanong kaya ako naman ang natawa. He looked confuse.

“Nothing, don’t mind what I’ve said. Let’s take a bath na lang, I want to try that poso.” I said, giggling. Napailing na lang siya.

“I want to try that poso. Tsk! Arte.” he mocked and I rolled my eyes to him. Hindi ko na mabilang kung ilang beses ko na siyang inirapan. He’s annoying kasi.

“Mahal mo naman.” I fired back and smirked.

“Sobra!” sabi niya atsaka ako mabilis na hinalikan sa labi. Napailing na lang ako matapos ang ginawa niya. Mga moves niya talaga. I sighed.

At naligo na nga kami sa poso nila. It’s felt that my inner child is healing because na-try ko na din maligo sa poso. Ang lamig pala ng tubig sa poso kaya buong pagligo namin ay nakangiti lang ako. Aside from pagligo sa poso it also because of his jolly attitude. Tumagal tuloy kami ng isang oras sa pagligo.

After changing my clothes into pajamas, I slept. Madilim na sa labas ng magising ako. Wala na din si Zeyn sa tabi ko kaya bumangon ako para hanapin siya. Paglabas ko ng kwarto ay bumungad sakin ang mabangong amoy ng pagkain kaya dinala ako ng mga paa ko sa kitchen.

Then there I saw Lola Felma cooking. Nang maramdaman niya ang presensya ko ay humarap siya sa akin at ngumiti. Gumanti naman ako ng ngiti.

“Gising ka na pala, hija. Nando’n si Zeyn sa labas kasama ang Lolo at Tito niya. Aba’y hapon pala-ang nag-inom na.” naiirita niyang sabi.

“May maitutulong po ba ako?” I asked and I saw how her eyes bigger. But she smiled immediately.

“Marunong ka bang magluto?” she asked. Nahihiya naman akong umiling. Napatawa naman siya. “Hayaan mo, marunong naman ang apo kong magluto kaya hindi ka gugutumin.”

I gave her a timid smile. I’m about to go to the sink when she handed me a plate with food. I looked to her with confusing face.

“I-abot mo na la-ang itong pulutan sa kanila. Kaya ko na dito mag-isa sa kusina. Salamat agad, hija.” she said, smiling. I smiled and took the plate from her.

Naglakad ako palabas ng bahay habang dala-dala ang plato na may pulutan. Agad ko namang nakita sina Zeyn at Lolo Caloy, they’re laughing with another man. It must be his Tito Jose.

Nahinto sila sa pagtawa ng makita akong papalapit. Tumayo naman si Zeyn para salubungin ako. I smiled at him when he reach my spot. He took the plate from me.

“Gising ka na pala. Tara ipapakilala kita kay Tito.” he said and encirled his arm on my waist. Nahihiya naman akong naglakad sa pwesto nila.

While approaching to their side, I can’t help but to feel nervous. I bite my lip to ease the tense I’m feeling. Nang makalapit ay ngumiti ako sa Tito niya at sinuklian naman ako nito ng isang magandang ngiti.

“’To, si Reese, girlfriend ko.” Zeyn proudly said. Nakangiti namang tumango sa akin ang Tito niya. Gumanti ako ng ngiti at yumuko dahil sa hiyang nararamdaman.

“Manang-mana ka talaga sa ’kin, matinik sa chicks!” sabi nito atsaka tumawa. Mas lalo namang nadagdagan ang hiya ko. I heaved a deep sigh.

“Syempre! Lahi natin, eh!” Zeyn answered, chuckling. “Upo ka muna, papasok na din ako maya-maya.”

Before I sat down, I greeted his Uncle pa ng good evening at bumati na lang din ’to pabalik. Ngayon ko lang nakita ’yung alak na iinom nila and I heard na lambanog ang tawag. Dahil nga nandito na din ako ay na hot seat tuloy ako. Tumatawa naman sila kahit na wala namang nakakatawa sa sagot ko, though hindi naman offensive ang pagtawa nila. Its more on being drunk.

Maya-maya ay lumabas din si Lolo Felma at inaya kaming mag-dinner. Kaming tatlo lang nila Zeyn ang kumain dahil baka daw masuka lang sina Lola Caloy at Tito Jose kapag kumain. Tahimik akong kumain habang pinapakinggan silang magkwentuhan.

After nilang maubos ang malaking bote ng alak ay halatang lasing na si Lolo Caloy and tipsy na si Tito Jose, while Zeyn seems normal kaya napagpasyahan na nilang tapusin na ang inuman.

As we entered the house, Lola Felma can’t help but to shook her head because Lolo Caloy is really drunk. Kumakanta-kanta pa ’to kaya napapangiti na lang ako.

“A-apo… weg keye mesyedeng meengey memeye ha! Beke mesere eng pepeg…” Lolo Caloy suddenly uttered. Even though he can’t speak well, I understand what the latter said. My face heated.

“Tsk! Si Lolo talaga, matulog na po kayo.” naiiling na sabi ni Zeyn. Pero ngumisi siya paglingon sa akin. Nag-iwas ako ng tingin. Jerk!

“Kaya ayokong umiinom ka, Caloy. Hindi ka naman malakas uminom ang hilig mong mag-aya!” kunsumidong sabi ni Lola Felma. “Sige na, apo, ako ng bahala sa Lolo mo. Magpahinga na kayo ng nobya mo sa kwarto.”

Sabay kaming nakangiting tumango kay Lola Felma. “Good night po.”

“Ay, hija. Gusto mo bang sumama sa ’kin mamalengke bukas? Para makapasyal ka naman dito. Baka naiinip ka.” Lola Felma uttered.

“Okay po.” I answered and nodded. Nakakahiya naman kasing tumanggi. At para na din matututo akong mamalengke.

Pagpasok namin sa kwarto ay nagulat ako ng biglang ugain ni Zeyn ’yung kama. My brows met. “What you were doing?!”

“Maingay nga, maririnig nila kapag ginalaw kita dito sa kama.” he said and chuckled. My face heated. This asshole!

“Pervert!”

Malakas lang naman siyang tumawa bago ako niyakap at matunog na hinalikan sa pisngi. Naglambingan kami ng ilang minuto bago siya nagpalit ng damit because he smells alcohol.

Tomorrow morning ay maaga kaming umalis ni Lola Felma. Hindi na ko nagpalit ng damit at hinayaan na ’yung pj’s ko na lang ang suot ko papuntang wet market. She taught me how to buy fish, vegetable and meat. Dapat daw ganito, gan’yan and thanks to her because I learned something from her. Pag-uwi namin sa Bulacan, ita-try kong mamalengke. I giggled of the thought.

Nine AM when we arrived home from wet market, Zeyn and Lolo Caloy are still sleeping. Pinagtimpla ako ni Lola Felma ng kape at binigyan ng tinapay. Then after I ate my breakfast, I told Lola Felma na maliligo lang ako. I feel sticky na kasi.

Sa banyo na lang ako naligo dahil mahirap nga mag-bomba sa poso. Gusto ko sana ulit ’don maligo pero nakakangawit mag-bomba.

After I took a bath, Zeyn still sleeping. I don’t mind him and did my morning routine. I decided to wear a denim short shorts and black racer back tank top, wala na kasi akong mahahabang shorts. Naglakad na lang ako papuntang kusina at pinanuod si Lola Felma magluto habang nagchichikahan kami.

“Morning, love, ’La.” Zeyn said. I turned my eyes to him and smiled. Niyakap naman niya ’ko at hinalikan sa pisngi. Mabilis ko siyang pinalo dahil nahiya ako kay Lola Felma. But the latter just smiled at us.

“Maupo na kayo doon sa hapag ng makakain na tayo ng almusal. At mamaya pa ang gising ng Lolo Caloy n’yo. Tsk! Ang matandang iyon talaga.” Lola Felma said.

We started eating and Zeyn decided to bring me sa isang river malapit dito sa kanila. Agad namang pumayag si Lola Felma kaya ng matapos kaming kumain ay inayos ko na ’yung dadalin kong gamit. Lola Felma packed a lunch for us para daw may kainin kami. I said my gratitude to her.

I’m now sitting in the passenger seat, I can’t help but to amaze to this place. Hindi mainit kahit na mataas na ’yung araw. I looked at Zeyn and he’s lazily driving. I decided to break the silence.

“Malayo ba ’yung river?” I asked. Binigyan niya ko ng mabilis na tingin atsaka bumalik sa pagda-drive.

“Hindi naman, pero kapag nilakad mo malayo.” he lazily said. May hang-over pa yata, but he wasn’t drunk last night. I inhaled deeply.

Pinagmasdan ko na lang ang daan habang sinasabayan ’yung kanta. But I stopped when I heard Zeyn’s voice, nakakahiya because he’s good singer while me is sintunado. I giggled.

Hindi nagtagal ay nakarating na din kami sa ilog na sinasabi niya, walang tao bukod sa amin. May isang maliit na kubo at ’don niya nilagay ’yung mga gamit namin. I apply sunblock to prevent sunburned, I have sensitive skin pa naman. After I applied sunblock, I took off my top including my bottom. So now, I’m just wearing my underwear. Buti na lang pareho silang red. I chuckled.

I turned around to see Zeyn’s reaction, I smiled when I saw how his adams apple move. But syempre hindi siya nagpatalo, he gave me a seductive look while he was taking off his shirts and shorts. He’s just now wearing his boxer brief that has a logo of Calvin Klein. I gulped because his bulge is very evident.

“Let’s go, love.” he said, smirking. I didn’t noticed na nakalapit na pala siya. I nodded as he held my hand and intertwined our fingers.

Tumatakbo kaming lumusong sa ilog. Natawa ako ng basain ko siya ng tubig, gumanti naman siya at dahil malaking tao ay mas nabasa ako. Naghabulan kami sa tubig hanggang sa nabasa na kami ng tuluyan. Nagpakitang gilas pa siya kung gaano siya kagaling lumangoy, remember he’s swimmer. Dahil nga maharot siya ay lulubog siya at hahawakan ang binti ko sa ilalim kaya nagugulat ako. Tatawa lang naman siya paglitaw ng ulo niya. Bwisit talaga.

Nang mapagod kami ay napagpasyahan naming mamahinga sa isang gilid, ’don kami pum’westo sa malilim habang kumakain ng chocolate na dala ko.

“Hmm, love. Yohan’s birthday is getting near. What’s our plan? What gift do you think I’ll give him?” I suddenly asked. His forehead creased.

“Kelan ba ’yan? Baka may gawa ako sa talyer niyan kay Tito, nag-chat nga ’nong nakaraan kailangan daw ng tulong ko.” he said that made me pout.

“Aw! So, hindi ka makakapunta?” I asked but mas lalong nagsalubong ang mga kilay niya atsaka umigting ang panga.

“Anong ako? Tayo! Hindi ka pupunta ’don ng hindi ako kasama, RJ!” madiin niyang sabi kaya binigyan ko siya ng naguguluhang tingin. Umiwas naman siya ng tingin.

“What?! Hindi pwedeng hindi ako pumunta ’don, he’s my friend for the longest time, Zeyn. Ta’s hindi ako pupunta? What do you think they’ll think when I don’t go there? Tsk!”

Malalim siyang napabuntong hininga habang mariing nakapikit. “Tsk! Pag-aawayan ba natin ’to, ngayon, RJ?! Nandito tayo para maglibang hindi para mag-away sa walang kwentang bagay!”

I inhaled deeply. He’s right, we went here to enjoyed and not to fight. “Okay… I’m sorry.”

He kissed my temple and held my arm. “Maligo na lang ulit tayo sa ilog. Saka na natin ulit pag-usapan ’yan kapag nakauwi na tayo sa Bulacan. Hmm…”

“Wait! Hihipak lang ako sa vape. Hipak na hipak na ’ko mula pa kagabi, nakakahiya naman mag-vape sa harap ng pamilya mo.”

“Tsk! Ta’s kapag ako nag-yosi nagagalit.” he said and rolled his eyes. I giggled because of his reaction. Cute, eh!

After ilang puffs ay bumalik na kami sa tubig. Naglangoy na lang kami this time at nag-aya pa siyang magpabilisan. Since I’m competitive, pumayag ako but ang ending talo ako. Swimmer kaya siya. Tsk!

He’s now doing floating habang nakahiga ako sa ibabaw niya. Ang galing nga niya kasi kaya niya ’yon, well he’s swimmer after all. I feel warm and safe to his arm, how I wish we can always like this.

He’s kissing my checks and I can’t help but to giggled. Nakikiliti kasi ako sa balbas niya. Pero kahit na naglilikot ako sa ibabaw niya ay hindi kami lumulubog.

“Hmm… ang tamis naman ng leeg mo.” he said and sniffed my neck atsaka sisipsipin ng mahina, he’s marking his territory. “Love, bakit mo ’ko mahal?”

I startled because of his sudden question. I burst out a deep breath before I began to answer his question.

“I love you, because… you make me believe in love again. After all the traumas I’ve been through, I thought I’m not gonna love again. But look, I’m deeply in love with you.” I answered. Napatawa pa ako sa huling nasabi. “Eh, ikaw bakit mo ko mahal?”

“Walang sapat na dahilan para hindi kita mahalin… basta ang alam ko lang mahal kita, tapos ang usapan. At mamahalin kita hindi lang habang nabubuhay ako, kung hindi buong buhay mo.”

My eyes watered and kissed him, he kissed me back. Pinalalim niya ang halikan namin kaya napaayos kami ng pwesto. Habang papalalim ang halikan namin ay bigla namang buhos ang ulan. Napagkangitian kami.

He held my cheeks while staring at me intently. Nakipagtitigan ako sa kanya habang inaayos ang ilang hibla ng buhok niyang tumatabing sa mukha.

“I love you, Zeyn.” I whispered.

“Mas mahal kita, RJ.” he said, smiling. Mas lalong lumakas ang ulan at may kulog ng kasama. “Umahon na tayo, lalamigin tayo dito.”

Tumango ako at umahon kami sa ilog para sumilong sa kubo, dinanaan muna namin ’yung naiwan naming pagkain sa puno at nandon din pala ’yung cellphone namin. Nilalamig na ako habang papunta ng kubo, pero mas lalong nadagdagan ang panlalamig na nararamdaman ko ng mabasa ’yung DM ni Rei.

isaidreijam:

mom and dad are here, they want to meet kuya zeyn.

Chapter 19

WARNING: R-18

—————

“Love? Halika na bilisan mo, mas lumalakas ’yung ulan.” Zeyn suddenly said. I shifted my gaze to him and nodded. Pagpasok na lang sa kubo ako magrereply kay Rei.

Naglakad kami papasok sa loob ng kubo. Sinara niya ’yung pinto pati ’yung mga bintana para hindi pumasok ’yung tubig sa loob. I took my towel to cover my body and to lessen the cold feeling.

I typed my reply to Rei asking where our parents were. She immediately replied. I heaved a deep sigh before I opened her messages.

isaidreijam: they’re here, maaga daw kayong umuwi bukas because they’re planning to have dinner with you guys.

Napabuntong hininga na lang ako matapos mabasa ’yung reply niya. How can I tell this to Zeyn?! Baka mabigla siya. Shit!

“Love, okay ka lang d’yan? Nababasa ka ba?” I turned my eyes to Zeyn as I heard his sudden question. I gave him a timid smile.

“No, I’m fine here.” I answered.

“Nasaan ’yung vape mo? Pahiram nga ako saglit, naiwan ko pala ’yung vape sa bahay nila Lola Felma. Ang lamig.” he said with a low chuckle. Napangiti naman ako, I took my vape and held it to him.

Inilipat ko ang tingin sa labas ng kubo. I was mesmerized because I can see from here the beautiful lake while the rain is still pouring down. Kaya hindi ko napansin ang paglapit ni Zeyn mula sa likuran ko. He rested his chin on my shoulder and encircled his arm on my belly.

“Ang lamig ’no? Hmm…” he said atsaka binuga ang usok sa mukha ko. I glared at him but the lad just burst out his loud laugh.

“Tsk! Pahipak nga.” I faced him and when I was about to take the vape from him, inalayo niya atsaka ngumisi sa akin ng nakakaloko.

“Ayoko! Kunin mo muna ’yung usok sa bibig ko.” he teased while wiggling his eyebrows. I smirked before nodding my head. Fight me, Mr. Mercado. Baka nakakalimutan mo bad bitch ako before.

I saw how he swallowed the lump on his throat. I smirked and gave him a seductive smile. “Game, love.”

He, once again, gulped. Humipak siya sa vape ko para maumpisahan na ’yung pagbuga sa akin ng usok. He leaned to me para masapo ko ’yung usok mula sa bibig niya.

Bumuga siya kaya hinigop ko ’yung usok mula sa bibig niya. After what I did, binuga ko ’yung usok at ngumiti sa kanya. I gave him a seductive smirked. Napalunok na naman siya at humipak ulit para ulitin ’yung ginawa namin ’nong una.

Sa pangatlong ulit ay hinalikan niya ko para mas makapal na usok ang maibuga ko. Kaya lang ay hindi ko na naibuga pa ang usok ng sipsipin niya ang labi ko to deepen the kiss. I kissed him back para hindi magpatalo.

Binuhat niya ako habang hindi naghihiwalay ang labi namin at nagpapalitan ng laway. I clung my legs on his waist and encircled both hands to his head. Habang patuloy pa rin kami sa paghahalikan ay naglakad siya. He walked towards the wood wall and buried my back to it to serve as support.

Bumaba ang halik niya mula sa labi ko pababa sa leeg ko. He licked it and I craned my neck to the side to give him more access. Napasabunot ako sa likod ng ulo niya ng sa kiliting nararamdaman. Mas lalo naman niyang diniinan ’yung paghalik sa leeg ko na may kasama pang pagkagat.

Tumigil siya sa paghalik sa leeg ko at tumingin sa mga mata ko habang namumungay ang kanya. Nagtitigan kami habang dahan-dahan niyang tinatanggal ang lock ng bra ko. Nang magtagumpay ay nalaglag ang bra ko kaya tumbad sa kanya ang dibdib ko. Thanks to HRT dahil nagkalaman iyon. Kitang-kita ko kung paano mag-ningning ang mata niya habang nakakatitig sa bundok ko.

Inilapit niya ang labi niya sa kanang dibdib ko kaya napatingala ako sa bubong ng kubo dahil sa sensasyong nararamdaman. He licked my right boob while he was massaging the other one. I can’t help but to moan.

“Oh… shit!” I moaned. He continues his business kaya mas napakapit ako sa ulo niya para mas madiin sa susó ko.

Nang manawa siya sa kanang dibdib ko ay ’yung kaliwang dibdib ko naman ang binigyan niya ng pansin habang nilalamas niya ’yung kanan kagaya ng ginagawa niya kanina. Thanks to the pouring rain because my moan is getting louder.

“Ugh… stop, love!” I managed to say despite the good feeling he’s giving me. Kunot-noo naman siyang tumingin sa akin. Halata ang pagkabitin sa mukha niya. Ngumisi naman ako.

I kissed his neck and I felt how his body stunned. Tinapik ko ang braso niyang nakasuporta sa magkabilang hita ko at nakuha naman niya ang gusto ko. Ngayon ay nakatayo na ako sa harapan niya.

Pinagpatuloy ko ang paghalik sa leeg niya pababa sa hubad niyang dibdib. Naririnig ko ang mahina niyang ungol dahil sa pagkagat at pagsipsip ko sa kaliwang ugtóng niya habang mahina kong kinukurot ’yung kanan.

Mas binaba ko ang paghalik habang binibigyan ng mahihinang halik ang mga nadadaanan kong parte ng katawan niya hanggang sa makaabot ako sa v-line. Tumingin ako sa mukha niya habang may ngisi sa labi. Matigas naman siyang napalunok.

Bago ako tuluyang lumuhod ay nilagay ko sa sahig ang towel ko para magsilbing sapin, ayokong umitim ang tuhod ko. Parang dejá vu ang pagluhod ko sa harap niya. Pero binalewa ko iyon atsaka dahan-dahang binaba ang suot-suot niyang boxer brief. His massive shaft sprung free, I swallowed the lump on my throat because of the sight. It’s really big, so the rumor is true. He’s so damn blessed. Shit!

I looked at him. “You’re ready, love?”

“O-oo…” he hoarsely said. Sunod-sunod din siyang napalunok kaya mas lalong lumaki ang ngisi sa labi ko.

Dahan-dahan kong hinawakan ang alaga niya. Tumango-tango iyon kaya medyo nagulat pa ako. I did the motion to jerk his shaft. Habang dahan-dahan kong pinagtataas-baba ang palad ko sa alaga niya, my other hand is massaging his balls.

I looked at him and he’s looking at me intently while his chest is pounding so hard. Hindi ko na pinatagal pa ang paglalaro sa alaga niya at dahan-dahan kong inilapit ang bibig ko sa pagkalalaki niya.

“Ohh… Tangina!” matigas niyang ungol kaya napangisi ako. Lagpas sa ulo palang ang nasusubo ko pero napapaungol na siya. I will do my best to deep throat this monster cock.

Pinagtaas-baba ko na ’yung ulo ko sa alaga niya at kalahati palang ang naabot ng bibig ko dahil nabubulunan ako. Nilagay niya ang kamay sa likod ng ulo ko at ginagabayan ang pagtaas-baba ko. Habang nagtataas baba ang ulo ko ay iniikot ko ang dila ko sa ibaba ng ulo ng búrat niya.

“T-tangina… ang s-sarap.”

Mas nilaliman ko pa ang pagsubo sa alaga niya at hindi naman nagtagal ay naramdaman ko na ang pagdikit ng mukha ko sa pubic hair niya. I smirked dahil nagtagumpay ako sa pag-deep throat sa kanya.

“Potangina deep throat… ughh!” he moaned at kumapit ng madiin sa likod ng ulo ko. Hinampas ko ang legs niya dahil hindi na ’ko makahinga.

Hinabol ko ang hininga ko matapos niyang pakawalan ang ulo ko. I shut my eyes tight dahil pakiramdam ko ay mamatay-matay ako sa ginawa niya. May namuo pang luha sa mga mata ko. Damn you, Mr. Mercado!

“Sorry, love. Subo mo na ulit.” malambing niyang sabi at humawak ulit sa likod ng ulo ko para ilapit sa tayong-tayo niyang pagkalalaki. I rolled my eyes before sucking his dick once again.

Sinubo ko na ulit ang pagkalalaki niya. Wala akong ibang narinig kung hindi ang mga malulutong niyang mura at malalakas niyang ungol dahil sa ginagawa kong pag-deep throat sa kanya.

Buong akala ko ay magla-lock na ang jaw ko dahil sa ginagawang pag-blow jób sa kanya. Pero maya-maya ay naramdaman ko ang pagtigas ng katawan niya, sign na malapit na siyang labasan. At ilang pagtaas-baba pa ng ulo ko sa alaga niya ay naramdaman ko ang mas paglaki ng alaga niya sa loob ng bibig ko at paglabas ng malapot niyang katas.

“Ugh… Ugh…” mahaba niyang ungol. Hindi ko na mabilang kung ilang putok ba ang nagawa niya sa loob ng bibig ko.

I looked at him and he’s already looking at me while he’s catching his breath. Seryoso siyang tumitig sa akin bago nagsalita.

“Lunukin mo ang pinagpaguran mo, love.” malagkit niyang sabi habang nakatitig pa rin sa akin.

At ginawa ko nga gusto niya, nilunok ko ang katas niya habang nakatitig sa mga mata niya. Nanlaki naman ang mata niya pero ngumisi din kalaunan. Akala mo ay tumama siya sa lotto.

“Tangina ang ganda mo!” ang nasabi na lang niya atsaka ako tinulungan tumayo mula sa pagkakaluhod. “Pero hindi pa tayo tapos…”

Ako naman ang nagulat ng bigyan niya ako ng halik sa labi at pilit pinapasok ang dila sa loob ng bibig ko. Nagtagisan kami ng galing sa halikan at sinipsip niya ang dila ko. Akala ko ay mandidiri siya dahil may katas niya ang bibig ko. Shit!

Patuloy kami sa paghahalikan habang naglalakad. Hanggang sa naramdaman ko ang manipis na kama sa likuran ko. Nagkahiwalay ang labi namin at lalaking-lalaki siyang tumayo sa harapan ko. Napalunok ako sa tanawin, tayong-tayo ang alaga niya habang may pawis sa katawan niya kahit na maulan sa labas. Binigyan niya ako ng isang nakakaakit na tingin. Shit! I want him to fúck me so hard.

“Fúck me please.” hindi ko makilala ang boses ko dahil para akong isang pútang gustong-gusto mai-kama.

“Okay, love.” nakangisi siyang sabi atsaka umakyat sa kama at pum’westo sa ibaba ng butt ko.

Dahan-dahan niyang inalis ang suot-suot kong panty and I don’t know how to feel when he sees my little thing. Shit! This is one of the transwomen’s insecurities when making love to their partners. Nakakababa ng self-esteem, but he just smirked.

Pumatong siya sa ibabaw ko kaya naramdaman ko sa tiyan ko ang tigas na tigas niyang alaga. He kissed me torridly while he was playing my butt hole. Tumigil siya sa paghalik sa akin atsaka tumitig sa akin ng seryoso.

“Nga-nga!” matigas niyang utos na siya namang ginawa ko. He spit his saliva into my mouth at wala akong nagawa kung hindi lunukin. Napangisi naman siya.

He spit again, but this time on his palm. Pinahid niya iyon sa alaga niya at sa butas ko bilang pampadulas. Nakailang ulit siya sa pagdura hanggang sa naramdaman ko na ang pagtutok ng alaga niya sa butas ko.

I shut my eyes tight as I felt the pain because of his massive shaft. Dahan-dahan niya iyong pinasok sa butas ko at napabaon ang kuko ko sa likod niya. Damn! He’s so big.

“Ughh…”

“Ohh…”

Sabay naming daing ng tuluyan ng makapasok sa loob ko ang alaga niya. Nilagay niya sa magkabilang gilid ko ang mga braso niya habang malambing na nakatitig sa akin. Dahan-dahan siyang umulos at hindi ko alam kung anong sarap ang mararamdaman. It feels good. Damn!

Mabagal siyang umuulos sa ibabaw ko habang binibigyan ako ng maliliit na halik sa mukha. Maya-maya lang ang mabagal na ritmo ng pagbayo niya ay dahan-dahan bumilis kaya sagad na sagad na ngayon ang alaga niya sa loob ko.

“Ohh… shit.. f-faster, love!” ungol ko kaya mas lalo niyang binilisan ang pagbayo sa ibabaw ko. Nakita ko naman ang pag-igting ng panga niya.

“Ugh… potangina! Ganito ba Reese?! Ha?! Akin ka lang. Akin lang…” sabi niya habang mas lalong bumibilis ang pagbayo niya. Halos tumirik ang mga mata ko sa sarap na nararamdaman.

Yes, he’s not my first pero parang ngayon lang ako nagalaw ng ganito. Ang galing niyang bumayo at tamang-tama ng mahaba at mataba niyang pagkalalaki ang kati sa loob ng butas ko. Mabilis pa rin siyang umiindayog sa ibabaw ko. At pakiramdam ko ay malapit na kong masiraan ng ulo.

“A-ang s-sarap… ugh!” I moaned.

“Talagang masarap akong kumàntót. Sabi ko naman sayo makakalimutan mo ang pangalan mo kapag ako ang gumalaw sa’yo… Ohh.”

Bigla naman siyang huminto at inutusan akong tumalikod. He wants dog style this time. Mabilis naman akong tumuwad sa kanya at naramdaman kong pinasok niya ulit ang alaga niya sa butas ko. Hindi naman nagtagal ay umulos na ulit siya ng mabilis sa likuran ko. Shit! This is heaven.

Pinapalo palo niya ang puwetan ko habang nagdi-dirty talk at mabilis pa ring bumabayo. Ungol lang ako ng ungol hanggang sa maya-maya ay naramdaman kong nilabasan ako. Shit!

Nanlata ako matapos labasan pero mabilis pa rin siyang kumakadyót sa likuran ko. Hanggang sa limang minuto ang lumipas ay naramdaman ko na ang pagbagal ng ritmo sa pagbayo niya.

“Ughh… a-ayan na ’yung tamód ko… ughh!” ungol niya at nilabasan na nga siya. Nakawalo siyang sirit ng katas sa loob ko at hinihingal siyang napahiga sa tabi ko. “Ha! Ha! Ha! Ang sarap non, love.”

He kissed me and I fired back. “I love you.”

“Mas mahal nga kita.” he said, smirking. Napairap muna ko bago ako yumakap sa kanya at pinikit ang mga mata. Now, I know that there’s a huge difference between sèx and make love. It tugged my heart making love with him.

When I opened my eyes, Zeyn was not on my side anymore. I roamed my eyes in the surroundings and I saw him leaning at the door while hitting my vape.

Dahil nakatalikod siya akin ay hindi niya alam na gising na ako, he’s now wearing his shorts while nothing is on top. I’m still naked pero malinis na ang butas ko at wala na ’yung katas, I blush when I remember what we did earlier. Tumayo ako para magbihis na, madilim na din sa labas pero tumila na ang malakas na ulan.

Napalingon siya sa akin saktong tapos na akong magbihis, hindi na ’ko nagsuot ng bra pero suot-suot ko pa rin ’yung panty ko kanina. Ngumiti siya sa akin kaya gumanti ako ng ngiti.

“Kamusta pakiramdam mo, love? Wala bang masakit sa’yo?” medyo may pag-aalala sa boses niya. I shook my head as an answer.

“Wala naman. I’m fine.” I answered and smiled.

“Wala?” nakangisi siyang sabi kaya kumunot ang noo ko. “Pwede pa isa ulit?” he said and burst out laughing. I rolled my eyes at him.

Hindi naman na kami nagtagal sa kubo at umuwi na kami sa bahay nina Lola Felma. Pagdating pa nga namin ’don ay nasa pintuan si Lola Felma at nag-aalala kaming sinalubong. Tinanong niya pa kami kung ayos lang ba kami na siyang tinanguan lang naman namin. Agad kaming naligo ni Zeyn at pagtapos ay inaya na kaming kumain nina Lola’t Lolo.

After we ate dinner, I went straight to our room. Zeyn volunteered to wash the dishes. I’m quietly hitting the vape in our room when my phone suddenly beeps. I took it and my heart almost burst from the tense when I read that it was from Dad.

Dad:

I want to meet your new boyfriend because I don’t want to see you in pain again. I love you, dear :*

I heaved a deep sigh. He’s ironic because his the first man who broke my heart. Nalipat naman ang tingin ko dahil biglang bumukas ang pintuan ng kwarto. Pumasok si Zeyn atsaka nakangiting lumapit sa akin. Binigyan niya ako ng isang halik sa ano bago tumingin sa mga mata ko. I gave him a timid smile.

“Ayos ka lang?” he asked, frowning. I nodded my head. Should I tell him? Well, I have no choice but to tell him. I inhaled deeply.

“Love?” I called him with a low voice. Binigyan naman niya ako ng nalilitong tingin, I shut my eyes tight because of the frustration. “My parents would like to meet you, especially my Dad.”

Rumehistro naman ang gulat at takot sa mga mata niya pero mabilis lang iyon at napalitan ng blangkong emosyon.

“Bakit daw?” he asked while frowning his forehead. I buried my face on his chest and his heart is beating so fast.

“I don’t know. Baka gigisahin ka ni Daddy.” I joked and burst a low chuckle. I looked at him pero seryoso lang siyang tumingin sa akin habang nakakunot pa rin ang noo niya.

“Love, hindi naman nila tayo paghihiwalayin, ’di ba?” seryoso niyang sabi atsaka umigting ang panga. May dumaan ulit na takot sa mga mata niya pero mabilis niyang inalis iyon. Ngumiti ako atsaka siya binigyan ng mabilis na halik sa labi.

“Of course not! They just want to meet you and have dinner with you as well, that’s it. Don’t overthink, okay?” malambing kong sabi habang hinahaplos ang pisngi niya. Marahan naman siyang tumango-tango.

“Siguraduhin mo lang, love. Dahil sinasabi ko sa’yo… kapag pinaghiwalay nila tayo, itatanan kita… itatanan kita, Reese!” matigas niyang sabi habang umiigting pa rin ang panga atsaka ako mabilis na niyakap ng mahigpit.

I can feel in his embrace the fear that we might be separated and I can feel that he doesn’t want that to happen… but I don’t want that to happen even more.

Chapter 20

“Lola Felma, Lolo Caloy, we’re leaving na po. Thank you so much po sa pagpapatuloy.” I said, smiling. They nodded their head while smiling at me as well.

“Mag-iingat kayo, hija. Ika’y makabalik sana rito.” Lola Felma said. Tumango-tango naman ako sa kanya bilang sagot. Nauna si Zeyn na magpaalam dahil aayusin niya pa ’yung mga gamit namin na dadalhin pauwi.

I walked through Zeyn’s spot. He’s fixing our stuff sa likod ng kotse kaya hindi niya napansin ang paglapit ko. I sniffed his back and he’s smell so damn good. Green flag!

“Let’s go?” I asked as he turned his gazed on me. Tumango-tango naman siya atsaka ako binigyan ng tipid na ngiti. I cupped his face because he looked worried. “Don’t worry, okay? I know my parents will like you.”

He sighed. “Hindi ko lang kasi mapigilan mag-isip ng kung ano-ano. Natatakot ako, love.”

Ngumiti ako sa kanya atsaka malambing na inayos ang buhok niya. Binigyan ko din siya ng isang mahabang halik sa labi para kumalma siya.

“Natatakot ka pa?” I asked, smirking. Napailing naman siya ng ulo habang nangingiti. Hinawakan niya ’yung kamay ko atsaka kami sumakay ng kotse.

Habang nililiko niya ang kotse ay nakita namin na kumakaway sina Lola’t Lolo kaya napangiti kami. Bago pa kami tuluyang umalis ay bumusina si Zeyn ng dalawang beses atsaka pinaandar ng mabilis ang kotse. Sinaway ko naman siya na tinawaan lang naman ng loko.

I connect my phone to his stereo para hindi naman masyadong tahimik ang maging byahe. I humming the song when I suddenly turned my eyes on him. He looked bored while moving the stearing wheel.

He’s wearing a black button-down polo and khaki shorts, he paired it to his top-sider shoes. While I’m just wearing a loungewear. Sa bahay na lang ako magpapalit ng damit para sa dinner tonight.

“Where do you want to eat? We’re haven’t eating lunch.” I suddenly said to break the silence. He simply glanced at me and shrugged. I inhaled deeply. “You have no cravings now?”

“Wala, love. Kahit saan lang ako. Ikaw ba?” he asked after he quickly glanced at me. Napa-isip naman ako kung ano ba gusto kong kainin.

“Parang want ko ng Chinese food.” nagpapa-cute kong sabi kaya napapailing siyang napangisi. Gwapo!

May nadaanan kaming Hap Chan kaya doon ko siya tinuro. He swifly maneuver the steering wheel para mag-park. I buckled the seat belt atsaka kami bumaba para pumasok na sa loob ng resto.

While we were eating I felt that he’s now at ease, nawala kahit papaano sa isip niya ’yung dinner later. Tahimik na lang namin na kinain ’yung pagkain at ng matapos ay bum’yahe na ulit kami pauwi ng Bulacan. Hapon na ng makarating kami sa bahay.

“Where’s my stuff? I’ll help you na.” sabi ko ng makababa sa kotse. Kunot noo siyang tumingin sa akin atsaka umiling.

“Hindi na, love. Kaya ko naman.” he said kaya napabuntong hininga na lang ako at hindi na siya pinilit pa.

We walked towards our house at tahimik lang sa loob na siyang pinagtaka ko. Where are the people here? Dumiretso kami ng lakad papasok at naglakad na paakyat sa kwarto ko.

“Saan ko ilalagay ’yung mga ’to, love?” Zeyn suddenly said. I looked at him and he was still holding my things. I pointed to my bed.

“There na lang sa bed. Wait for me here, pupuntahan ko lang si Rei sa kwarto niya.” I said and immediately went out of my room. Hindi ko na hinintay pang sumagot siya.

Naglakad ako papasok sa kwarto ni Rei and I saw her watching on her TV. Napabaling naman ang tingin niya sa akin ng tuluyan akong pumasok sa kwarto niya.

“Where’s Mom and Dad?” I asked, frowning. Tumingin naman siya sa akin matapos patayin ’yung TV.

“They’re here kanina. I think resched na lang ’yung dinner since may technical daw na nangyari sa taping nila Mommy then si Daddy naman biglang tumawag ’yung secretary niya.” she probed. I heaved a deep sigh.

“Really?!” I said with my irritating voice. “Nagmamadali pa naman kaming umuwi at buong akala ko ay nandito sila. Tsk! Eh, kelan daw sila ulit uuwi?”

“I’m not sure, Ate. But I heard kanina kay Mommy na baka daw sa Wed na sila makauwi. Ask Manang Ine, sila ang magkausap ni Mommy kanina.”

I, once again, sighed. I rolled my eyes before I went out of her room. Naglakad ako papasok ng kwarto ko para sabihin na pwede ng umuwi si Zeyn. Pagkapasok ko ay naabutan ko siyang nakasandal sa headboard ng kama ko habang nags-scroll sa phone.

“Love, my parents are not here. Sa Wednesday na lang daw siguro itutuloy ’yung dinner with them. But not sure pa.” I said as I faced him. Ngumiti naman siya atsaka lumapit sa akin.

“Okay, love. Pahinga lang ako saglit tas alis na din ako.” he said then encircled his arm on my waist. Nakatingala ko siyang tinignan dahil nga matangkad siya.

“You can sleep naman here if you want.” I said, pouting my lips. Tumawa naman siya atsaka pinisil ang tungki ng ilong ko.

“Hindi na, alam ko naman na mamimiss mo ’ko agad, pero may pinapadaan kasi si Papa kina Tito kaya kailangan ko din umalis.” he said with a low chuckle. Napairap naman ako sa kanya.

Nang makaalis siya ay agad akong naligo para makapagpahinga na. Then after doing my routine, I slept.

Two days had passed and tomorrow na ’yung family dinner namin with my boyfriend. Kinikilig akong napangiti dahil kapag naiisip kong may boyfriend na ulit ako after all the traumas I’ve been through, ay hindi ko maiwasan sumaya. Finally!

“Gurl, you’re glowing! Nagbago ka ba ng skin care?” Claire asked as she sat next to Louis. I gulped because of her sudden question.

We are now eating lunch in the cafeteria. ’Yung mga boys ay nakapila palang dahil huli silang lumabas ng classroom at late na gumawa ng activities. I looked at Claire when I felt that she was waiting for my answer.

“Uhm, n-no… maybe because of my new collagen.” I lied and felt my face heated. She nodded repeatedly and shrugged. Nagtaas lang naman ng kilay si Louis sa sagot ko pero nagpatuloy sa pagkain.

I think this is because of Zeyn. After sex glow, I guess. May nangyari din kasi samin kahapon when I went to their house. He said that he can’t resist me kaya nauwi sa diligan. I shook my head para mawala sa isip ang makamundong bagay.

I took my phone to update Zeyn na kumakain na ’ko. Hindi kami nakapagsabay ngayon dahil may hinahabol daw silang PETA na ipapasa later. I typed my messages.

Ako:

love, i’m eating lunch na. eat your lunch after that, okay?

He immediately replied at sinabing sabay kaming umuwi, hintayin ko daw siya sa parking lot later. Hindi naman na ’ko nagreply dahil biglang dumating na din ’yung boys.

“Guys, sa Sat, huh! Tampo talaga ko kapag hindi kayo nagpunta.” Yohan said matapos ilapag ’yung pagkain niya sa table namin.

“Gago! Syempre pupunta kami. Ikaw pa! Malakas ka yata sa ’min, brad.” nakangising sabi ni Edward atsaka umakbay pa kay Yohan. Nandidiri naman ’yong inalis ’nong huli.

Tumingin si Yohan sa ’min isa-isa at isa-isang nagtanguan ang mga kaibigan ko. They’re all looking at me and I bite my lips as I felt my heart beating so fast. Hindi kasi ako agad nakasagot dahil iniisip ko si Zeyn, hindi pa namin kasi ulit napag-usapan ’to. But I eventually sighed because I can’t say no to him. Bahala na!

“O-of course, I’ll be there!” I defensively said and rolled my eyes. My friends howled the reason why we caught other students attention.

“Yown! Lasingan na ulit. Alam kong babaha ’yung alak niyan, bro.” nakangising sabi ni Primo na tinilian naman nina Louis at Claire habang si Edward ay yinuyugyog ang katawan ni Yohan.

I gave them a timid smile habang nagtatawanan at asaran sila. At ng humupa na ang asaran nila ay tinapos na namin ang pagkain. Hindi ako makasali sa pagiging masaya nila dahil nga baka hindi ako payagan ni Zeyn. I hope he would agree this time. Shit!

“That’s all class, let’s have a quiz tomorrow. Goodbye!” Mr. Rodrigo said and went out to our classroom. Sabay-sabay kaming napa-ungot dahil sa huling sinabi niya.

“Bwisit talaga ’yang si Sir, eh! Kakainis!” Louis groaned as she faced us. Wala naman kaming nagawa kung hindi ang mapa-irap na lang sa kawalan.

We fixed our things before we out of our classroom. Sabay-sabay kaming naglakad papuntang parking lot. Habang naglalakad ay nagulat ako ng bigla akong hawakan sa braso ni Primo. I looked at him with my brows furrowed.

“May sundo ka ba? Hatid na kita?” he probed.

“Thanks but no thanks, Zeyn will take me home.” I said and gave him a timid smile. Napatango-tango naman siya atsaka ako binitawan. I heaved a deep sigh.

We bid our goodbyes when we reach the parking lot. Kanya-kanya naman silang sumakay sa mga designated cars nila. Hinintay ko pa ng ilang minuto si Zeyn bago siya dumating atsaka kami umalis. Akala ko ay sa bahay niya ’ko idederetso pero sa sinabi niyang sa bahay na muna nila ako. Wala naman akong nagawa kung hindi ang pumayag.

I went straight to his room para maligo. Nagdala ako dito ng iba kong clothes para in case na maisipan niya ngang patambayin muna ako dito sa kanila. Mostly sa mga damit na pinili niya ay mga oversized shirts and pajamas. Napapailing na nga lang ako.

After I took a bath, I went out to his bathroom and I saw him standing in front of his cabinet. Naghahanap yata ng damit. Napalingon naman siya ng maramdaman ang paglapit ko.

“Kiss mo nga ako.” he said while pouting his lips. Hinampas ko naman siya sa braso atsaka umirap. “Tsk! Isa lang, eh! Kadamot.”

“Maligo ka na nga ’don!” I averted my face when he was about to kiss me. Napanguso naman siya atsaka nagtatampong naglakad papasok ng banyo. Bumubulong pa siya na hindi ko naman naririnig kaya napatawa na lang ako.

After a couple of minutes. He went out from the bathroom while wearing only his black boxer shorts and wiping his head using the towel. I gulped the lump on my throat because of the sight.

Naglakad siya papalapit sa vanity mirror niya para maglagay ng deodorant sa kili-kili. While I was ogling him, he looked at me and made me gasp. He chuckled.

“Titig na titig, love, huh!” he said, smirking. I rolled my eyes at him to hide the embarrassment. “Pero nga pala, baka hindi tayo makapunta sa birthday ’nong kaibigan mo sa Sabado. Nasabay kasi sa gawa namin ni Tito.”

My forehead creased. “But I already said my yes to them! Hindi pwedeng hindi ako pumunta. Tsk! Pwede naman kasi akong magpunta ’don ng hindi ka kasama.”

He walked towards my spot while his eyes turned into a bloodshot. “Hindi ka pupunta ’don ng hindi ako kasama, RJ. Napag-usapan na natin ’to. Kapag sinabi kong hindi, hindi!”

Naiinis naman akong tinitigan siya habang ramdam ko ang pagkakalukot ng mukha ko.

“Zeyn, naman! What time ba ’yung gawa nyo? Hanggang gabi ba ’yon?!” naiinis kong sabi. Napahipak ako sa vape ng dahil sa stress.

“Umaga ang gawa ko, pero hindi ko kasi alam kung anong oras matatapos. Tsk!” he said and sighed. Naiinis pa rin akong napanguso.

“See?! Umaga lang pala ’yung gawa mo, so your free at night. Pwede naman tayong magpunta ’don kahit hindi on time.” I said, pouting my lips. “Pumayag ka na please!”

I held his buddy kaya nagugulat siyang napaatras. But I’m eager na mapapayag siya kaya hinawakan ko ulit at hinimas. He looked at me with a brows furrowed but I continued rubbing his cóck.

“Tangina! Sige na sige na! Sunod na lang tayo ’don. Shit!” he said while catching his breath. He looked at me with his bloodshot eyes.

I kneel in front of him, I took off his boxer shorts before I began to suck his dick. Now I know kung pa’no siya mapapapayag sa mga gusto ko. Tama nga si Claire and Louis, kapag mainit ang ulo ng jowa mo, ’yung isang ulo ang painitin mo. I chuckled.

I just sucked him and hindi kami nakapag-make love dahil biglang kumatok si Zack sa kwarto niya. After that ay naghanap na lang kami ng damit na susuotin niya bukas for family dinner. Casual lang naman ’yung dinner but I want him to look decent and presentable.

I am now in front of my vanity mirror to do my make-up. I decided na elegant look lang ang gawin while I’m wearing a white linen sleeveless dress na above the knee. Nag-spray lang ako ng Baccarat Rouge 504 then I’m done.

I went downstairs at naririnig ko na ang mga boses nina Mommy and Manang Ine. They looked at me ng maramdaman ang pagbaba ko.

“Good evening, dear.” Mom greeted me as she noticed my presence. I gave her a timid smile before I went to the couch. Bumalik naman sila sa pag-uusap ni Manang.

I just scrolled at my phone while waiting for Zeyn, but I suddenly shifted my head when Dad sat next to me. He smiled and so I did.

“Hello, ’nak. How are you? Next month is your debut, what gift do you want?” he asked, smiling. Seryoso ko siyang tinignan bago napabuntong hininga.

“I want to get rid of my thing down there. I want to undergo Sex Reassignment Surgery.” I said, seriously. I saw how he gulped the lump on his throat. But he nodded eventually.

“Okay, I will tell my secretary about that. Para after your debut makalipad kana to do your surgery.” he said, smiling. Hindi ko naman napigilan ang yakapin siya dahil sa sayang nararamdaman. Shit!

“Really, Dad?! Thank you!” masaya kong sabi ng humarap ako sa kanya. Nakangiti naman siyang tumango-tango.

We heard a beep outside our house kaya napatayo kami. Ako na ang lumabas dahil si Zeyn na iyon. Nang makalabas ay saktong kakababa lang ni Zeyn sa kotse. He’s wearing a black Ralph Lauren polo shirt na naka-tuck in sa black trousers niya, then his Jordan Luka 1 shoes. Gwapo!

“Hi, love.” he said nang makalapit. He gave me a kissed sa forehead kaya napapikit na lang ako. Nakangiti akong hinila siya papasok ng bahay.

“Let’s go.”

Nang makapasok kami sa bahay ay nakatayo si Mommy and Daddy habang nasa gilid nila si Rei. Nagmano naman si Zeyn nang makalapit kami.

“Good evening po, Mrs. and Mr. Fontanilla, Rei.” Zeyn greeted, smiling. Ngumiti naman si Mommy habang si Daddy ay seryoso lang na tumango.

“Good evening, dear. Just call me Tita, okay? Beside girlfriend mo naman ’yung anak ko. Let’s eat na, I’m famished sorry.” Mommy said, grinning. “Manang, paki-ready na ’yung lamesa.”

We walked towards the table at kita ko ang kaba sa mukha ni Zeyn. Hinaplos ko ang braso niya at ngumiti. Tumango naman siya atsaka tipid na ngumiti sa akin.

While we were eating nauna ng magsalita si Mommy. “So, dear. What’s your family business?”

Zeyn gulped before he put down his utensils. “Ah, ma’am, sa totoo po niyan ay wala po kaming family business. ’Yung tatay ko po ay sundalo pati ’yung Kuya ko, ta’s nag-aaral pa po kaming dalawa ng kapatid ko. ’Yung nanay ko naman po ay wala na.”

Natahimik kami dahil sa huli niyang sinabi. I cleared my throat and I was about to speak when Mommy cutted me off.

“Omygosh! I’m sorry, dear. I shouldn’t have asked that.” nahihiyang sabi ni Mommy atsaka naaawang tumingin kay Zeyn. Tipid lang namang ngumiti ang huli.

“Okay, lang po, ma’am. Uhm, pasensya na din po kung hindi ko po personal na nahingi ang pahintulot nyo sa panliligaw kay Reese.” Zeyn said. Sasagot pa sana si Mommy ng putulin siya ni Daddy.

“So, what’s your course, hijo?” Daddy asked.

“Criminology po, sir.” Zeyn proudly answered and smiled. Napatango tango naman si Daddy habang pinipigilan ang pag-ngiti. Alam ko kasi na gusto niya mag-pulis before.

Tinuloy na naman namin ang pagkain ng wala ng magsalita. Sumasagot lang naman si Zeyn kapag may tinatanong sina Mommy at Daddy. The dinner is getting better kaya naramdaman ko naman ang pagkalma ni Zeyn.

“You can sleep here, hijo. Mag-iinom pa tayo after this, may guest room naman kami sa itaas.” nakangising sabi ni Daddy. Nahihiya namang tumango si Zeyn. “By the way, what’s your favorite team in the NBA?”

“Lakers po, Sir.” Zeyn answered.

“Because of that, I like you now for my daughter. And I want you to be her last dance in her debut. And call me Tito dahil nakakatanda ’yung Sir” Daddy said with a low chuckle. I bit my lower lip as I felt my heart beat so fast. Shit!

“It’s my pleasure, Tito.” nakangising sabi ni Zeyn pero sa mata ko na ngayon nakatingin. Hinalikan niya pa ’yung kamay ko habang nakangisi pa rin sa akin. I was shocked because my parents are here. Shit!

“It’s settled, then.” Mommy said, giggling. Damn!

Chapter 21

“I’ll go upstairs, dear. Inaantok na ’ko, ikaw ng bahala kina Daddy at sa boyfriend mo, huh! Good night.” Mommy said and leaned to kiss me in my cheeks. I nodded and gave her a timid smile.

“I’ll go with you, Mom. Good night, sis.” pagsingit ni Rei atsaka humalik din sa pisngi ko at sabay na nga silang umakyat ni Mommy sa itaas.

I’m sitting in couch while Daddy and Zeyn are drinking in bar area. Since I can see them from here, panaka-naka kaming nagtitinginan ni Zeyn at ngingiti lang naman siya kapag nahuhuli akong nakatingin. He looked pretty normal and I know na mataas ang alcohol tolerance niya.

Nilibang ko ang sarili sa panunuod ng isang british series sa Netflix. Sumulyap ulit ako kay Zeyn at naabutang malamyos ang mata niyang nakatintin sa akin. I gulped because of his tantalizing eyes. Tumatango-tango siya kay Daddy habang nasa akin pa rin ang tingin. I averted my gaze before Daddy noticed it.

“It was nice talking you, hijo. I hope you can visit here often.” Daddy said, smiling. He looked tipsy. And they are now walking towards my spot.

Echosera din ’tong si Daddy, eh. Sila nga ’tong madalas na wala sa bahay tas sasabihan niyang dapat dalasan ni Zeyn ang pagpunta dito. I shook my head and sighed.

“Sa tingin ko nga din po, Tito.” nakangiting sabi ni Zeyn bago ako nilapitan sa likod ng arm rest. He sniffed my neck and made me shivered. Naamoy ko ang alak sa kanya pero hindi naman mabaho. “Tulog na tayo, love. Hmm?”

“Yeah, let’s go.” I probed and stood up. Napatingin ako kay Daddy ng maramdaman ang paninitig niya. Hindi naman siya nagsalita at inaya na kaming umakyat sa itaas.

“Good night, ’nak.” Daddy kissed me on my temple atsaka bumaling paharap kay Zeyn. “D’yan ’yung guest room, hijo. Pumasok ka na.”

Nagkatinginan kami ni Zeyn dahil sa tinuran ni Daddy. He’s protective as ever. Wala naman nagawa ’yung boyfriend ko at pumasok sa guest room, but before he did that he gave me a quick good night kiss sa cheeks.

I went inside my room and before I lay down sa bed ay ginawa ko muna ’yung night routine ko, taking a bath and skincare. I wore a black satin night dress atsaka nahiga sa kama. I took my phone para magpa-antok, I was busy scrolling on my fyp when I received a DM from Zeyn.

zey_em:

hindi ako makatulog, love :(

zey_em:

gusto kong kayakap.

Napangiti ako matapos basahin ’yung message niya. I bite my lower lip before typing my reply.

ris:

what do you want me to do? puntahan ka diyan tas yakapin?

I chuckled after I send my reply. Napabaling ako ng higa at kagat labing binasa ang sinabi ko. Shit! Bakit parang ang lande-lande ng reply ko?!

zey_em:

pwede ba? plss :(

I bite my lips as I felt my heart beats so fast. I sighed while thinking what should I do. But then I decided to go to the guest room. Tinignan ko muna ’yung itsura ko sa salamin bago dahan-dahang lumabas ng kwarto ko.

Napatingin pa ako sa kwarto nila Mommy at ng ma-assure na natutulog na sila ay mabilis akong naglakad papuntang guest room. Pagpasok ko ay sumalubong sa akin ang malamig na kwarto. Kunot-noo ang itsura ni Zeyn ng mapunta ang tingin ko sa kanya dahil naiilawan ang mukha niya.

He immediately looked at me when he noticed my presence. Malawak siyang nakangiti, umusog siya atsaka tinapik ang kama para umupo ako doon. I smiled at him and walked towards his spot.

Nang makalapit ay agad niya ’kong hinigit at mahigpit na niyakap. Inamoy-amoy niya ’yung leeg ko habang pinapatakan ng maliliit na halik.

“I missed you. Hmm…” malambing niyang sabi kaya napairap naman ako. Ang OA naman nito, kanina lang magkasama kami sa ibaba.

“Bolero! Eh, magkasama nga lang tayo kanina sa ibaba.” natatawa kong sabi. He pursed his lips while frowning.

“Tsk! Eh, iba naman ’yung sa ibaba hindi tayo makapaglambingan ng ganito. Bakit hindi mo ba miss? Hindi mo na ’ko mahal?”

I chuckled as I faced him. I rolled my eyes while shaking my head. “Your drunk, love! We should sleep.”

Umiling-iling siya atsaka mas lalong binaon ang mukha sa leeg ko habang mahigpit pa rin na nakayakap sa akin. I giggled as I felt his beard tickled my neck.

“Hindi na ko lab ng honeybunch, sugarplum, pumpy-umpy-umkin ko. Hmm…” malambing niyang sabi habang wala pa ring tigil na hinahalikan ang leeg ko. Napatawa naman ako ng malakas dahil sa sinabi niya.

Natahimik naman ako ng maramdaman ang pag-akyat ng halik niya mula sa leeg ko papunta sa pisngi. Naglilikot na rin ang mga daliri niya sa tiyan ko pababa sa mga hita ko. I just let him because it’s make me warm and calming.

Pinasok niya ang kamay sa loob ng suot kong night dress pero hindi ko siya pinigilan dahil nagugustuhan ko iyon. Until it reach my left mound. I moaned because of pleasure.

“Hmm… lumulusog yata ’yung babies ko, love.”

I didn’t respond because he’s making me crazy through rubbing my boob. Bumaba ang halik niya sa leeg ko ulit pababa sa collar bone hanggang sa umabot sa cleavage. Dahan-dahan niyang binaba ang strap ng suot-suot kong night dress and since I’m not wearing a bra, it’s exposed my bare chest.

“Hmp! Mukhang makatas.” he chuckled and licked my breast. I moaned because of the familiar pleasure. He continue licking my mound so I held his head, guiding.

After a couple of minutes ay tinigilan niya ang ginagawa sa bundok ko. Umangat ang mapupungay niyang mata sa akin. I stared at him intently while brushing up his hair.

“May pick up lines ako sa’yo, love.” biglang sabi niya kaya nangingiti akong napatingin sa kanya.

“What is it… hmm?”

“Hardin ka ba?” he asked. I chuckled while shaking my head. Pero mukhang seryoso siya kaya sumagot na lang ako.

“Bakit?”

“Pwede ba kitang diligan?”

I giggled because of his corny joke, kung hindi lang ako inlove ay baka na cringe na ’ko. I looked at him and he seems that he’s waiting for my answer so I swallowed the lump on my throat before nodding my head repeatedly. Nakakalasing ang mga tingin niya.

Tumayo siya para hubadin ’yung polo shirt niya. Napatingin naman ako sa hubad baro niyang katawan pababa sa may pusod niyang may maninipis na buhok. He’s now a bit buff and looked matured, I didn’t noticed it these past few months but now that I’m intently staring at his body, parang lumaki nga.

He unbuckled his belt while staring at me seductively. My body shivered because of his stare. Mabilis niyang hinubad ang trousers niya kaya ’yung boxer brief na lang niya ang natira, bakat ang matigas niyang sawa doon.

Pumatong siya sa akin and he kissed me languidly. I fired back to his kiss and he held the hem of clothes to remove it. Nang magtagumpay sa pagtanggal, he rubbed my mound while he was planting small kisses to my neck.

“I love you…” he whispered.

“Fuck me, love… own me!” I said, begging.

“Make love! It’s make love, love.”

May diin ang huling sinabi niya atsaka mabilis na hinubad ang underwear. At siya na din ang naghubad ng panty ko. Tinutok niya ’yung ulo ng alaga niya at dahan-dahang pinasok, I bite my lower lip to stop myself from whinning.

Hindi ko alam ang mararamdaman ko ngayon dahil nasa kabilang kwarto lang ang mga magulang ko habang ako ay nakikipaglampungan dito. Nang masagad ang alaga niya ay mabilis siyang umulos sa butas ko.

Pinigilan namin ang malakas na pag-ungol at dirty talks dahil baka may makarinig sa amin. I know I should be scared because someone might see us but I don’t know. All I want now is him, only him.

“Fúck! Malapit na ’ko, love… Ugh!” he groaned as he reached his climàx. Hinihingal siyang napadapa sa ibabaw ko kaya rinig na rinig ko na naman ang malakas na tibok ng puso niya. “Mahal na mahal kita, Reese. Mahal na mahal.”

Nang makapagpahinga ay tumayo siya atsaka kumuha ng panlinis. Siya ang naglinis ng katas niya sa butas ko, siya din mismo ang nag-suot ng panty and night dress kong hinubad niya kani-kanina lang. My heart filled of joy because of it, I may not vocal about my love language, but its act of service.

Natulog na kami matapos maglinis ng pinagkalatan. Kinabukasan ay maaga daw umalis sina Mommy and Daddy kaya hindi ako nahirapan na bumalik sa kwarto ko. Tanghali na ng umuwi si Zeyn sa kanila at umisa pa siya ’nong umaga. Napapailing na nga lang ako dahil ang hilig ng damuho. I giggled.

Days had passed and today is Yohan’s birthday. He decided na house party na lang ang gawin kaya sa isang bahay nila gaganapin para daw kahit mag-ingay kami ay walang madidistorbo.

Since maaga palang ay nasa kwarto lang ako habang namimili ng mga pwede kong isuot later. Puro sexy clothes kasi ang meron ako kaya hindi ko alam kung ano ba dapat ang isuot dahil ayaw ni Zeyn na masyadong revealing ang sinusuot ko. My hubadera era is now resting, resting lang dahil baka makabalik naman siya eventually. I chuckled.

Maingay sa GC namin dahil nga binati nila si Yohan. As usual, pinaka-maingay sina Louis and Edward but kung dati ay nag aasaran silang dalawa, ngayon naman ay magkasama silang nang-aasar kay Yohan.

After I greeted Yohan ay tinanong nila ako kung anong oras ako pupunta. Ang usapan ay nine PM but hindi na ’ko nag-seen dahil hindi ko alam kung anong oras kami makakapunta ni Zeyn. Ni-text ko si Zeyn kung anong oras siya matatapos sa ginagawa niya pero hindi naman siya nag-reply. Busy, I guess.

“Ate?” Rei called as she went inside my room. I smiled at her and she walked towards me.

“Why?”

“Are you busy?” she asked. I shook my head as an answer. “Let’s bake cookies?” she added, giggling. Ngumiti naman ako at tumayo. Naglakad kami pababa para mag-bake na.

Matapos naming mag-bake ay umakyat kami sa kwarto niya para manuod ng all time favorite naming movie sa Netflix. Hindi pa rin nagrereply si Zeyn kaya nilibang ko na lang sarili sa panunuod.

Natapos na ’yung movie ay wala pa rin siyang text, so I decided to sleep dahil alam kong mapupuyat ako later. I miss being drunk. Shit!

Pupungay-pungay ang mata ko ng magising sa tabi ni Rei. I took my phone to check what time is it, its seven PM. May dalawang text si Zeyn kaya binasa ko.

Love:

sorry, love, na-busy lang. hindi ko alam kung anong oras kami matatapos dito, pero sa tansya ko matatagalan kami.

Love:

pero pupunta tayo. i love you :*

Hindi na ’ko nagreply at nag-check kung anong ganap sa GC. May PM din si Louis sa ’kin, asking what time I’ll be there. Hindi ko siya ni-seen at dumiretso na lang sa banyo para maligo. Baka kasi biglang dumating si Zeyn, para aalis na lang kami.

I’m wearing a white fitted skirt na may slit and black tank top, then my Diorac sandals. Simpleng make-up look lang ang ginawa ko and I just added jewelries to look more elegant. I put all my things inside my Lady Dior bag in white lambskin matapos kong mag-ayos ng sarili.

Almost nine ng matapos akong mag-ayos kaya habang naghihintay sa pagdating ni Zeyn ay nag-scroll muna ’ko sa phone. Mga bandang ten ay wala pa rin kaya tinadtad ko siya ng text dahil naiinip na ’ko.

Nag-retouch na lang ako ng make-up para mainip. I’m in the middle of fixing my eyebrows when my phone beeps. I immediately took it, hoping that it was Zeyn. But I heaved a deep sigh when I saw that it was not from him. Its Primo.

omirp:

are you still in your house or are you there already? papunta palang kasi ako kina yohan.

Napabuntong hininga ako bago magreply kay Primo. Ni-text ko muna si Zeyn at sinabing sasabay na ’ko kay Primo, hindi naman siya ulit nag-reply kaya bumaba na ako para ’don na maghintay.

Agad namang dumating si Primo kaya tumulak na kami papuntang subdivision nina Yohan. Tinanguan lang kami ng guard dahil kilala nila si Primo. Nang makarating kami sa isang bahay nina Yohan ay agad akong bumaba. Hindi naman kalayuan ’to sa main house nila.

Sumalubong sakin ang maingay na kanta sa loob kaya parang biglang na-excite ang kalamnan ko. Shocks! Do I really miss this? I giggled.

“Akala ko kasama mo ’yung boyfriend mo? Hindi ba siya makakapunta?” Primo asked as we walked towards tha gate.

“Susunod na lang daw siya.” I lied.

Hindi naman na siya nagtanong kaya tumulak na kami papasok sa bahay nina Primo. Hinanap agad ng mga mata ko sina Louis but I didn’t see them. Yohan saw us kaya lumapit siya sa amin

“Happy Birthday, Yohan.” I greeted and kissed his cheeks. Nag-man hug naman sila ni Primo at sabay naming inabot ’yung present namin.

“Happy Birthday, bro.”

“Thanks! Tara kumain muna kayo tas inom na agad tayo. Nandon na sina Edward sa likod kasama ’yung iba kong bisita.”

Kumuha kami ng pagkain at hawak-hawak na dinala sa likod nila. Then there I saw the two bitches with Cuervo in front of them. I saw a lot of familiar faces especially Yohan’s cousins. They’re waving their hands at me and so I did.

I sat next to Claire, si Primo naman ay ’don naupo sa tabi ni Edward. Nagbatian lang kami at kumain na ako. Minamadali pa nga ako ’nong dalawa dahil gusto na daw nilang kainuman ako. Tinanong din nila kung bakit hindi ko kasama si Zeyn and I lied again.

Nang matapos akong kumain ay binabaan agad nila ako ng shot kaya nauumay akong tinanggihan iyon at sinabing sa next ikot na. Mabilis na lumipas ang oras ang naubos na namin ’yung isang Cuervo at pangatlo na namin ’to. Ang bilis nga. Shit!

“Hi, Reese. Nandito ka na pala kanina pa kita hinihitay.” Denver said, smirking.

Pinsan siya ni Yohan at lumapit siya sa gawi namin ng tawagin nina Edward at Primo. He looked sober already, I slightly nodded my head at him. Naka-landian ko siya sa IG before ’nong hindi ko pa nakikilala si Zeyn. He’s nice naman.

“Shot mo na ulit!” si Louis na medyo tipsy na. Nahihilo na nga din ako pero kaya ko pa naman. Si Claire ay mukhang lasing na.

Agad kong ininom ’yung shot kaya naghiyawan sila. Umikot ulit ’yung shot glass at maya-maya pa ay naglapitan na sa gawi namin ’yung ibang bisita at pinagdikit-dikit nila ’yung lamesa. Dalawang shot glass na din ’yung umiikot kaya pakiramdam ko ay maaga akong malalasing, JD pa naman ’yung isa.

“Samahan mo ’ko umihi, gurl!” papikit-pikit na sabi ni Claire kay Louis at tumango naman ang huli bago nagpaalam kay Edward na iihi lang sila.

Naiwan ako kasama sina Primo at mukhang may tama na din sila. Maingay sila dahil sinasabayan nila ’yung kanta at puro usok din mula sa vape ang paligid dahil mga pa-cool kid nga ang karamihan sa amin.

“H-hi ulit, R-reese. H-how are you…” nagulat ako sa biglang pagsulpot ni Denver sa tabi ko at mukhang lasing na talaga siya.

Hindi ako sumagot sa tanong niya at humipak na lang sa vape. Nasaan na ba ’yung dalawa? Ang tagal naman nilang umihi.

At dahil makulit si Denver ay kinakausap niya ’ko kahit na tipid lang akong sumasagot. Pero ganon na lang ang panlalaki ng mata ko ng maramdaman ang pag-vibrate ng cellphone ko. Shit! Si Zeyn tumatawag. And what?! It’s already 12:30 AM. I was about to answer his call when I heard a loud noise from Yohan’s cousin.

“Five seconds! Walang malisya!” hiyawan nila habang nasa amin ni Denver ang tingin. I shook my head repeatedly.

“Pagbigyan na natin. Five seconds lang naman.” Denver whispered in my ear with a low chuckle.

And just as he was going to kiss me, he was pulled away and strongly beaten in the face. Napatakip ako ng bibig dahil sa nangyari at napaangat ako ng tingin. Ganon na lamang ang panginginig ko sa takot ng makita ang galit na galit na itsura ni Zeyn. Damn!

“Tangina mo! Girlfriend ko ’yan. Subukan mong padampiin ’yang nguso mo sa labi niya. Paduduguin ko ’yan makita mo.” he said while clenching his jaw.

His glaring eyes went mine. At walang ano-ano ay hila ako palabas ng bahay nina Yohan. Nagpatianod ako sa kanya dahil na panlalambot ng mga tuhod ko.

Nanlalabo ang paningin kong napatingin kina Yohan na tinutulungan si Denver na makatayo. I even saw Claire and Louis with their confusing face.

Hindi ko namalayan na nakasay na pala ’ko sa kotse ni Zeyn. Malakas niyang sinara ’yung pintuan ng kotse kaya napapikit ako sa kabang nararamdaman. Shit! I ruined someone’s birthday.

Mabilis kong kinuha sa bag ko ’yung cellphone at nagtipa ng mensahe sa GC namin habang nag-uunahan sa paglandas ang mga luha ko.

Reese Jan Fontanilla:

@Yohan i’m sorry for making a scene and ruining your special day. i’m such a disgrace :((

Chapter 22

“Ano ’yon tangina! Magsalita ka!” he shouted. My eyes immediately went to him. Pulang-pula ang mukha niya sa galit at naglalabasan ang mga ugat niya sa leeg at noo. I gulped.

I looked outside my window and remained silent. Hindi pa rin magkamayaw sa pag-uunahan ang mga luha ko dahil sa nangyari kanina. At dahil malalim ang iniisip ko ay hindi ko namalayan na nakarating na pala kami sa harap ng bahay namin. I took a deep breath.

“Ano, Reese! Hindi ka man lang ba magpapaliliwanag?! Ha! Ano sumagot ka!”

“Ano bang kailangan kong ipaliwanag, Zeyn?! You ruined someone night. You made a scene by punching someone face! Hindi mo na nirespeto ’yung birthday ng kaibigan ko.” pabalik na sigaw ko. Lumandas ang luha ko sa kaliwang mata kaya agad ko iyong pinunasan.

“Ano?! Ako pa, ha?! Ako pa ngayon ang walang respeto?! Bakit nirespeto ba ’ko ng mga sinasabi mong kaibigan mo bilang boyfriend mo? Ha?! Tangina!”

I looked away as I felt my eyes watered and my heart sank. I sobbed in between my cries.

“Hindi mo ’ko naiintindihan —”

“Pwes ipa-intindi mo sakin! Ipa-intindi mo sa ’kin, Reese. Tangina!” he cutted me off by raising his voice. He seems that he lost his temper because of my lame answer. “Ano?! Tangina!”

Malakas niyang hinampas ang steering wheel gamit ang malaki niyang kamao ng hindi ako sumagot. Lumabas ang ugat niya doon kahit na sa bandang tattoo ay makikita ang umiigting niyang ugat. Napakislot ako sa pagkakaupo. At ang mga bwisit kong luha ay nag-unahan na naman sa pagtulo. Bullshit!

“Kaya ba, ha?! Kaya ba hindi mo man lang ako mahintay na pumunta tayo ’don dahil sa lalaking ’yon?” he shouted and his black pitch eyes pierced through me. I covered my gaping mouth because of his sudden accusation.

“N-no! I waited for you. I waited you pero sobrang tagal mong dumating to the point na nainip na ’ko kaya sumabay ako kay Primo!”

“Talaga, ha?! Bakit sino bang nagsabi sa ’tin na kahit hindi on time ay pwede tayong magpunta! Hindi ba’t ikaw?! At alam mong may trabaho ako!”

“Because I can’t just understand why you can just leave me there alone!” I shouted. His brow knitted and chuckled sarcastically.

“At ano, ha?! Edi, kung pinayagan kita ’don magpunta mag-isa nakipaghalikan ka na? Ha!” he spat that made me gasped. Wow, just wow!

“What?! Do you really believe na makikipaghalikan ako doon dahil hindi kita kasama? Ha!” I shouted. My voice broke. “Do you trust me… aren’t you?”

“Ewan ko na! Tangina! Makita lang kitang may kasamang ibang lalaki nagdidilim na ang paningin ko. Fúck!” he shouted and looked away.

I cried because of his sudden statement. I pursed my lips and shook my head. This is all nonsense. We should stop fighting and sleep. I took a deep sighed.

“Let’s stop fighting. Your mad and I’m drunk. We should sleep. And let’s talk some other time.” I spat after a long silence. Hindi naman siya nagsalita kaya agad ko ng tinanggal ang pagkakakabit ng seatbelt ko at lumabas ng sasakyan niya.

Nang makababa ako ay agad niyang pinaandar paalis ang sasakyan niya. I expected that he will follow me, but he did not. He didn’t. Hindi niya ’ko hinabol. Hindi niya ginawa.

I cried as I felt my heart break into tiny pieces. He’s causing me too much pain tonight. I walked towards my room, wasted and crying. But like what I’ve said earlier. Nagseselos lang siya kaya kami nag-away ng ganito. Galit lang siya. Pero lilipas din ’to. Maayos din ’to.

Week had passed at ginawa ko lahat para maayos ang relasyon namin. Sinuyo ko siya because I realized somehow na may mali din ako. Na dapat sinabi ko na agad kay Denver at sa mga pinsan niya na I’m committed. Na may boyfriend ako. And I can’t just blame my boy friends that night beacause they are all wasted.

Sa isang linggo na nakalipas ay malamig ang pakikitungo niya sa ’kin. Mas lalo din siyang humigpit sa akin at pinagbawalan na ’kong uminom. At kapag lalabas naman ako ng bahay ay dapat kasama siya.

Kaya ’nong recognition ni Rei ay kasama namin siya ni Manang Ine because Daddy and Mommy can’t go because they’re busy that time. Ang nasama lang din sa honor role sa aming magbabarkada ay sina Claire and Yohan. And speaking of him, I need to apologize to him as a basic human decency. But I didn’t have a chance to say sorry to him because we did not see each other in school that time.

“This red dress na lang siguro, Ms. Venus.” I said and handed to her the iPad na may design niya. She smiled at me and nodded her head repeatedly.

“Noted, ma’am.” she spat. She’s one of my Mom’s designer. Nandito siya dahil pinapapili na ’ko nila Mommy and Daddy kung anong balak kong suotin sa debut ko. “I’ll have to go.”

Tumango ako matapos niyang magpaalam. Naglakad siya palabas ng bahay namin. Sa isang  linggo din na nakalipas ay ni-busy ko na lang ’yung sarili ko sa pagpaplano ng debut ko. I have to take care of it dahil busy si Mommy. Kinakaya ko naman dahil nandyan naman sila Ate Sarah and Ms. Venus para tulungan ako. I sighed as I lay my back on the couch.

“Reese, si Louis hinahanap ka.” I opened my eyes when I heard Ate Sarah’s voice. At nasa likuran niya nga ang papalapit na si Louis.

“Hi, sisteret! Kamusta ka? You looked stress. Gosh!” masigla niyang sabi atsaka naupo sa tabi ko. I gave her a timid smile.

“What brings you here?” I asked.

“Wala naman sister ko. Aayain sana kitang manuod ng car race dahil kasali si Edward. Hindi ko kasi mahagilap ang malandeng si Claire kaya ikaw ang naisipan kong ayain.” she sighed.

“Gusto sana kitang samahan kaso baka hindi ako payagan ni Zeyn. You know that he still mad with what happened, right?”

She took a deep breath before nodding her head repeatedly. She even rolled her eyes. “Dahilan mo na lang si Kuya Kierr. Balita ko kasali din yata siya. Payayag naman siguro si Zeyn kapag si Kuya Kierr ang kasama mo.”

I heaved a deep sigh and nodded. Parang tanga naman siyang napangiti dahil sa pagpayag ko. I told her that I’ll change my clothes lang then we’re set to go.

I took my phone para magpaalam kay Zeyn. He’s busy sa talyer ng Tito niya at sa pag-build ng skill niya using gun. Next school year ay third year na siya then after that ay graduating na siya. It’s true that time flies so fast. Agad naman siyang nag-reply sa text ko.

Love:

k.

I sighed. How ironic na kailangan kong magpaalam sa kanya gayung hindi nga ako nagpapaalam sa mga magulang ko. But then again. He’s my boyfriend. And I’m his girlfriend.

I just wore a white loose shirt and denim short shorts then my sling bag. Pagkababa ko ay nakita ko si Louis na naiinip na naghihintay sa akin. Nang makita naman niya ako ay agad na kaming lumabas ng bahay.

Pagkalabas namin ay nakita kong naka-park sa labas ng gate namin ang isang FJ Crusier na kulay navy blue. It must be Edward. He’s on legal age as well like Primo and Yohan.

When I eventually sat on back seat ay binati ako ni Edward. Bumati naman ako pabalik. Pinaandar na niya ’yung kotse papunta kung saan man gaganapin ’yung racing. I was busy scrolling on my phone when Louis broke the silence.

“Sisteret, kamusta kayo ni Yohan? Nagkausap na ba kayo?” she asked atsaka lumingon sa akin. I bite my lips and shook my head.

“Not yet.” I spat.

“Bakit hindi mo kausapin, Reese. Hindi naman ’yung galit sa’yo. Parang hindi mo naman kilala si Yohan. Hindi kayang magalit ’non.” pag-singit ni Edward. Nagkatinginan kami sa salamin. Napa-buntong hininga na lang ako kalaunan.

I dialed Yohan’s number. At wala pang ilang segundo ay agad niyang sinagot. I sighed when I heard his raspy voice.

[Hello, Reese? Napatawag ka? May problema ba?] sunod-sunod niyang tanong. I bite my lower lip as I felt my heart beats so fast. You have to apologize, Reese. Come on. Do it!

“Uhm, nothing. I… I just call to say sorry for what happened last time. Really, I’m sorry.”

[Tsk! Ano ka ba wala ’yon. Okay lang ’yon, pare-pareho ng lasing kaya nagkagulo na at wala sa tamang pag-iisip. Atsaka okay pa naman ’yung mukha ni Denver kaya wala na ’yon.] he bursted.

I giggled because of his last statement. “But really, I’m so sorry. I ruined your special night.”

Tumawa lang naman siya at sinabing wala na nga sa kanya ang mga ’yon. And beside it’s all done. What had done is already done. Hindi na natin mababago pa.

“Ang gaga kasing Claire ang sabi sa ’kin iihi lang daw pero pagpasok na pagpasok palang namin sa banyo ay sumusuka na siya. Nilaro niya ’ko. Hayop siya!” si Louis. Napapailing na lang akong napatawa.

Hindi naman nagtagal ay nakarating kami sa lugar kung saan gaganapin ’yung racing. It’s abandoned place may pagka-desyerto ang itsura dahil mabuhangin sa paligid at walang kabahay-bahay.

I saw a lot of people and mostly are men. Hindi pa man kami tuluyang nakakalapit ay may kinakawayan na si Louis. At nang makalapit nga kami ay nagbeso sila.

“Shit! Long time no see, Ate. Lalo kang gumaganda, huh.” the girl said, smiling.

“Gaga sakto lang. Gano’n pa rin katulad last year.” sabi ni Louis atsaka sila nagtawanang dalawa. Napadako ang tingin sa ’kin ’nong babae. She immediately covered her gasping mouth.

“No way! Ms. Reese?” she shrieked. May mangha sa mukha niya kung pa’no ako tignan. “Grabe sobrang ganda nyo po. Nakaka-starstruck. By the way, I’m France.”

“Hello, France. Nice meeting you, dear.” I greeted, smiling.

Tinanong siya ni Louis kung sino ang kasama niya. Pinakilala naman niya ’yung kambal na sina Mikhel and Morgan. Mga kaibigan niya at nagpunta sila para suportahan si Mikhel.

After their catch ups nila ni Louis ay naglakad na kami kung saan mas maayos namin makikita ’yung racing. Hindi din naman nagtagal ay nag-umpisa na ’yung laban. Habang nanunuod kami ay palinga-linga ako dahil hindi ko pa nakikita si Kuya Kierr.

Maingay ang paligid dahil sa matulin na takbo ng mga kotse at sa sigawan ng mga tao. Habang busy akong nanunuod ay biglang may humawak sa akin. Napalingon naman ako at nakita ang mukha ni Kuya Kierr. I smiled.

“Sup, couz. Sino kasama mo?” tanong niya at tinuro ko naman si Louis. Kumaway ang huli atsaka binalik ang paningin sa panunuod.

I noticed na may malaking tattoo siya sa sa kaliwang braso. Since he’s wearing a polo-shirts, I could say na its full-sleeve arm tattoo. Shit!

“Kuya? Nagpa-full sleeve tattoo ka?” I asked. He shifter his eyes on me and smirked. I rolled my eyes. “Anong sabi nina Tito?”

“Of course nagalit. Kaya nga hindi ako uumuwi sa bahay at pinalayas ako ni Mommy. Sa kaibigan ko muna ko tumutuloy.” he bursted and looked away. I took a deep sighed. Pasaway talaga.

Natapos ang araw na ’yon ng nanalo si Edward at Kuya Kierr hindi ko alam kung pa’no nangyari yon. Basta ang alam ko lang nakarating sa finish line ’yung kotse nila.

Lumipas na naman ang mga araw. Medyo okay naman na kami ni Zeyn, bumabalik na siya ulit sa dati. And now, I’m going to there house para ibigay ’yung damit na susuotin nila sa debut ko. I also brought pizza para may merienda siya and he didn’t know that I’ll come because I want to surprise him. I giggled.

“Manong, you can back na sa house. Papahatid na lang pa-uwi kay Zeyn. Thank you po!” I said as I faced Mang Andoy. He nodded.

I walked towards their house while grinning. Gusto ko kasing makita kung ano ang itsura niya sa damit. Nang makapasok ay naabutan ko si Zack na nanunuod sa sala.

“Hi, Zack! Where’s your brother?” I cherfully said. Napalingon naman siya sa akin habang bakas ang gulat sa mukha. Naglakad naman ako papalapit sa kanya.

“Uy, Reese. Wala si Kuya, eh. Hindi ba nagsabi sa’yo? Dinaanan kanina nina Kuya Troy. Ang rinig ko magba-basketball daw d’yan sa court. Hindi ba nagpaalam sa’yo?” he said with a confusing looked.

“Uhm, no. Wala siyang nabanggit. But I’ll just wait him na lang.” I gave him a timid smile. “May dala ’kong pizza tas nandito na din ’yung damit nyo.”

“Sige sige hintayin mo na lang si Kuya. Upo ka.”

I sat next to him and we started eating the pizza. Nanuod kami habang nagmemerienda. Then after that ay naisipan niyang sukatin ’yung damit kaya nakangiti akong napatango-tango.

“Bagay ba?” he chuckled and looked at me. Ngumiti naman ako atsaka tumango. He looked handsome right now. “Talaga ba?”

“Oo nga!” I giggled. Lumapit ako sa kanya para ayusin ’yung necktie at ’yung buhok niya. At nasa ganon kaming tagpo ng may marinig kaming kalabog sa pinto.

“L-love..”

“Kuya!” si Zack. Pero binigyan siya ng nakakatakot na tingin ni Zeyn bago ako hinila sa braso paakyat sa kwarto niya. I groaned.

Nang makapasok kami sa kwarto ay malakas niyang sinara ang pintuan. His pitch black eyes pierced through me. I shivered because it somehow familiar. Shit!

“G-get you hands of me! Ano ba, Zeyn! Nasasaktan ako.” I shouted. Nagyuyupos pa rin ang mukha niya sa galit. Ang mga ugat sa leeg at sintido ay naglabasan na naman.

“Tangina! Ang galing mo talaga. Napakagaling mo talaga.” galit niyang sigaw. My body tremble. Pero tinatagan ko ang pagtayo dahil wala akong kasalanan sa kanya.

“Ano na naman bang problema mo, Zeyn? Ha!” pabalik kong sigaw. Galit kong binawi ’yung braso ko sa kanya.

“Tangina! Ikaw! Ikaw ang problema ko. Ano ’yung dinatnan ko na ’yon? Atsaka bakit ka ba nandito. Ha!”

“Why? I may not allowed to go here, ha?! Eh, ikaw nga umalis ka ng bahay nyo ng hindi man lang nagpapaalam sakin. Kung hindi pa ’ko pumunta dito hindi ko pa malalaman na wala ka sa inyo!”

“’Wag mo kong baliktarin dito! Tangina! Sagutin mo kung bakit ganon ka kalapit kanina sa kapatid ko! Ano?! Sagot!”

Hinawakan niya ang magkabilang balikat ko. Nag-uumpisa na naman mag-tubig ang mga mata ko. I sobbed and pushed him.

“Wala kaming ginagawang masama ng kapatid mo, Zeyn! And please! He’s your brother for damn sake! Pati ba naman siya pagseselosan mo?”

“Oo, Reese! Oo! Lahat-lahat. Wala ka dapat ibang hinahawakan kung hindi ako! Ako lang.” he still shouting. Hindi ko alam kung naririnig kami ni Zack sa labas. I took a deep breath.

“Even your brother? Ganon ka ba talaga kawalang tiwala sa’kin na pati kapatid mo pagseselosan mo?” I stuttered. At ang kanina ko pang pinipigalan na mga luha ay nag-unahan na sa pagtulo. “Nakakasakal ka na.”

“Ano?! Anong sabi mo? Nakakasakal? Pa’no ka nasakal sa ’kin, Reese?! Kasi hindi mo na nagagawa ’yung mga dati mong gawain. Ganon ba? Ha!”

“Hindi! Hindi, Zeyn! I just want to breath in this relationship. This fucking toxic relationship!” sigaw ko habang nanlalabo ang paningin dahil sa bumabalot na mga luha sa mata ko. “Because you know what. Kapag nagseselos ka. Kapag nagagalit ka… nakakalimutan mong mahal mo ’ko.”

Nagkatinginan kami at parehong natahimik dahil sa huli kong sinabi. He looked away while I’m still crying.

“M-mahal kita, Zeyn. But I think we should just at least breath. Maghiwalay muna tayo.” I cried as I swallowed the lump on my throat. He shifted his blank eyes on me.

“Sige! Mukhang iyon naman na talaga ang gusto mong mangyari, matagal na. Maghiwalay na nga siguro tayo. Tangina!” pagsang-ayon niya. Nang walang pag-aalinlangan. Nang walang pag-dadalawang isip. Ang sakit-sakit. Damn!

He turned back at me and walked towards the door. Malakas niyang sinara ang pintuan ng makalabas. I kneel on the floor when I felt my knees turns into jelly. Malakas akong napahagulgol.

Siguro ganon lang talaga kadali para sa kanya na bitawan ako. Na hayaan akong mawala. Na maghiwalay kami. At siguro nga ganon lang talaga ’ko kadaling iwanan, kasi ganon lang din naman ako kadaling kunin.

Chapter 23

“Uy, anong nangyari sa’yo, Reese. Ayos ka lang ba?” Zack asked as I walking towards the door. Kita sa mukha niya ang pagtataka ng dahil sa itusura ko. Binigyan ko siya ng isang tipid na ngiti.

“Yeah, I’m okay. I’ll be leaving, Zack. I hope you could still go to my birthday.” I said with a forcing smile.

“Teka! Anong bang nangyari sa inyo ni Kuya? Umalis siya ulit, eh. Gusto mo ba ihatid kita?”

“No, need. I’m okay. And I’m sorry but I really have to go.” sabi ko at hindi na siya hinintay pang makasagot. Naglakad ako papalabas ng bahay nila.

I don’t know where the hell I’m going. All I know is I’m hurting. I’m in pain. And I just want to breath to what happened. Pinunasan ko ang mga luha ko ng maramdaman ang pagbagsak nito. Bullshit! May i-luluha pa pala ’ko after I cried so much in his room. My heart is aching because it hurts so much. Its fucking hurts!

“Miss, sakay ka ba?” someone asked. I turned around and I saw an old man looking at me. Inosente siyang nakatitig sa akin habang hinihintay akong sumagot.

Wala sa sarili akong napatango kaya napangiti siya. I went inside his tricycle. This is my first time riding in this. I think this is safe naman.

“Saan ka ba, Miss?” he asked. I didn’t answer him because I, myself, didn’t know where the hell I’m going. So, can I answer his question. 

Patuloy pa rin siya sa pagsasalita pero hindi ko naman siya marinig dahil maingay ang tunog ng tricycle at malakas ang buga ng hangin na tumatama sa mukha niya. I looked outside and I saw different people. Some are happy, some are bored, and some are sad… just like me. I heaved a deep sigh.

May nakikita akong park sa di kalayuan kaya bigla akong nagsalita. “Uh, Manong. Here na lang po. Thanks!”

“Ah sige, hija. Sandale, itatabi ko lang.” pasigaw niyang sabi bago itinabi sa gilid ng daan ’yung tricycle. Nang maigilid na niya ay agad akong bumaba at inabutan siya ng two hundred peso bill.

After I gave him the bill ay agad akong naglakad palayo sa kanya. Narinig ko pa ang pagtawag niya pero hindi ko na siya nilingon.

I walked towards the swing, ’don kasi wala masyadong tao. When I eventually sat on it, I roamed my eyes in surrounding. At karamihan sa taong nandito sa park ay masayang nakangiti, umaabot sa mga mata nila ang tuwa kapag tumatawa sila.

I envy them beacause I’m in pain. I’m hurting. I shut my eyes tight and took a very deep breath. Sana mabilis na mawala ang sakit na nararamdaman ko ngayon.

Mabilis akong napalingon ng marinig ang boses ng isang dirty ice cream vendor. Naalala ko tuloy ang pangalawang pagkain ko ’non, I’m with him. I shook my head. I should stop remembering him if I want to end this pain.

“Ice cream kayo diyan!” the vendor said. May mga taong lumapit sa kanya kaya agad na din akong tumayo mula sa duyan at naglakad papunta sa ice cream vendor.

“One chocolate ice cream on bread.” I spat. He looked at me with his confusing face. I raised my left brow na agad nagpagalaw sa kanya.

Ginayak naman niya ’yung order ko matapos siyang matulala kanina. Nang matapos siya ay agad niyang inabot sakin ang ice cream on bread ko. I handed him the payment and went back to swing.

While I’m eating my ice cream, I remember all his promises that turn into lies. Mga sinungaling lalaki, pare-parehas lang talaga sila. Sa una lang magagaling. I sobbed while trying to stop my tears from falling. Bullshit!

I took out my phone. Agad akong nagpunta sa mga socmed ko at ni-block siya. Talagang wala man lang akong natanggap na messages from him. Tangina!

I dialed Mang Andoy phone number. He immediately answered it kaya agad akong nagpasundo kung nasaan ako. At first, he asked why I’m here but hindi naman na siya nagtanong ’nong sinabi kong sunduin na lang niya ’ko.

Days had passed and I busied myself for my upcoming birthday party. And today is my shoot for the old glamour hollywood inspired photoshoot. Si Kuya Kierr ang magpi-picture sa ’kin since he’s good in it. He’s talented, right?!

“You’re set to go, hija.” Ms. Nick said. Tapos na niya ’kong make-up-an kaya tumayo na ’ko papunta sa studio na nasa loob mismo ng bahay namin.

“Thank you, Ms. Nick. I’ll see you in my birthday. Please come, okay?” I spat. He nodded and smiled.

“Of course, hija. It’s my pleasure to see your engrandeng debut. Iba talaga kayo ni Mommy mo. Always pasabog.” he bursted. I chuckled.

“I should get going. For sure naghihintay na po si Kuya Kierr at kanina pa ’yon naiinip.” I said, smiling.

After namin magbeso ay naglakad na ’ko papuntang studio. Medyo mabagal ang paglalakad ko since I’m wearing heels. For my outfit, I’m wearing red tube dress with high slit. I also wearing evening gloves para mas makadagdag ng ganda sa suot kong dress.

When I arrived there, I saw Kuya Kierr holding a cute baby chow-chow. Kelan pa siya nahilig sa aso? As far as I remember hindi siya dog lover. My brows knitted.

“Hey, Kuya.” I called his attention because he still playing his dog. Napatingin naman siya sa akin atsaka napangiti ng makita ang ayos ko.

“Sup, couz. You looked great. Ganda mo sa outfit mo.” He said. Lumapit siya sa akin habang hawak-hawak pa rin ’yung chow-chow. Bumeso siya.

“Kelan ka pa nahilig sa aso, Kuya?” nagtatakang tanong ko. Hindi ko lang kasi magets na bigla lang nahilig sa aso. This jerk!

“Kelan lang. Why? Is there anything wrong?” he asked, frowning. Umiling-iling naman ako at napabuga sa hangin. Oo nga naman baka he’s into dog lately. There’s nothing wrong with it naman.

“Nothing, Kuya. Nanibago lang siguro ako na may aso kang alaga. I remember kasi na you don’t like pets when we were young. But anyway, let’s start?”

After he nodded, nag-umpisa na kaming gawin ’yung photoshoot. Three layout lang naman kaya madali lang kaming matatapos. Kabisado ko na ang anggulo ko at magaling naman siyang photographer.

“Okay, one more.” he spat. Nag-pose lang ako ng nag-pose. After ilang shots ay tumigil na siya. “Nice shot. Come here, tignan mo kung okay siya for you.”

I walked towards him. Pinakita niya sakin ’yung mga kuha niya and so far so good kaya natuwa naman ako. He’s the best photographer talaga for me.

“I liked this, Kuya. Ang ganda ko diyan.” I said. Napatango-tango naman siya bilang pag-sang ayon.

“Sakto lang.” he spat and shrugged. I glared at him and the latter just burst out. Asshole! 

Pinabalik na niya ulit ako sa gitna and last lay out na. May mga props na din kaming gamit tulad ng couch, wine glass and wine. After ilang shots at pagmamaganda ko sa camera ay natapos na kami sa pag photoshoot.

“We’re done.” he muttered.

“Finally! Nangalay ako sa pagmamaganda.” I spat and he just smirked. I walked through his spot and he show me the photos. All are good, well its me bitches!

“Coco baby, let’s go.” he called his dog at agad naman lumapit sa kanya ’yung aso. Cute! But there’s something wrong with him talaga.

“You’re leaving?” I suddenly asked. Tumingin siya sa akin ng may kunot sa noo. But he nodded eventually. “Why don’t you stay for a minute and let’s have a drink.”

“Nah, sa birthday mo na lang. I really have to go, papa-check up ko pa si Coco. Say bye to Tita Reese, Coco.” tumahol naman bigla si Coco kaya parang tatay siyang proud na proud.

“You know what, Kuya. You’re glowing. You’re in-love… aren’t you?”

He burst out and smirked. “I should get going, someone waiting for us. I’ll see you on birthday. Love you, couz.”

Bumeso siya at lumabas na sa studio namin. I knew it! He’s hitting someone. He’s in-love. This jerk! Malalaman ko rin kung sino ’yan.

Mabilis ulit lumipas ang mga araw and my grand debut came. I’m here standing behind closed doors wearing my white silk slip dress by YSL with a low back and dramatic slit. I paired it with a statement feather shawl. Naririnig ko na ang malakas na palakpakan ng mga taong imbitado sa engrandeng debut na ’to.

“Ladies and gentlemen, please give a around of applause for our very beautiful debutant tonight, Miss Reese Fontanilla.” malakas na sabi ng host sa loob. Dahan-dahan namang bumukas ang double doors kung saan ako nakatayo.

Liwanag ang sumalubong sakin kasama ang malakas na palakpakan at sigawan ng mga tao. I slightly smiled at them as I walked towards my throne. It feels like magic I when I felt that I’m the most beautiful among all the people here. It feels like, I’m a rare gem that everybody wants. That everyone dreams of. I smiled.

“Again, give her a around of applause.” the host said. Everyone clapped while holding their respective phone to catch this very moment of mine. “Okay, before we start please everybody… settle down.”

Naupo na ’ko sa trono ko. I glanced to my right side and I saw my family there, including Kuya Kierr and his family as well. Sa sumunod naman na table nila ay kitang-kita ko ang lima kong kaibigan since I was in grade school. It really time flies so fast. So, enjoy every moment with them.

The party start at inuna na ’yung eighteen gifts that symbolizes me or our friendship, pwede naman din kung paano kami nagkakilala. I’m smiling all through out because some of them are crazy on how they talked our relationship to each other.

Mabilis naman ang naging ganap sa mga sumunod na eighteens, like candles, bills, shot and etc. And for the very last eighteen, no other than the very iconic eighteen roses.

“First on the list of our eighteen roses is her Kuya Kierr. Please, handsome, take her hand.” the host announced as Kuya Kierr walked towards my spot.

He’s smiling while walking through my spot and so I did. He took my hand and we start dancing. “I can’t see your, man. Kanina pa. Where is he?”

I sighed and rolled my eyes. “You know what, Kuya. ’Wag mong hanapin ’yung mga taong wala. Okay?”

He bursted into laughing and smirked. “So, you ditch him already, huh!”

“Hey, you’re so mean. I am not!”

“Ow, you’re not?!” hindi makapaniwalang sabi niya habang may ngisi pa rin sa labi. “So, it means that man ditch you…. aren’t him?!” he conclude and burst out. Asshole!

Umirap na lang ako at hindi na siya pinansin. Buti na lang at tinawag na si Primo as my second dance. Primo handed me his roses and we start dancing. We just talked about our childhood and our kalokohan in the past. Next dance is Yohan, then Edward, and so on and so forth. Hanggang sa makarating kami sa second to the last dance.

“Second to the last dance is Mr. Clarence Dy. You may now take her hand.” lumakad na si Clarence papunta sa gawi ko. Inabot niya sakin ang isang rose atsaka nahihiyang naglahad ng palad. Inabot ko naman ’yon at inumpisahan na namin ang pagsayaw.

Well, if you’re wondering why I invited him and why he’s on the list of eighteen roses is because of her Mom. Syempre, hindi ko naman matanggihan si Tita Clara and aside from that, I think wala naman mawawala sakin. ’Tsaka, I’m single again. Remember?!

“Happy Birthday, Reese. Uhm… I have a simple present for you. I’ll give it to you later.” he said while we we’re dancing. I slightly smiled as a response. “Uh, anyway… I… I.. still… l-like y-you.”

I chuckled that made his brows knitted. Tinikom ko ’yung bibig ko at seryosong tumingin sa mga mata niya. “I’m sorry, but what you did to me is non-negotiable. Cheating is not a mistake, it’s a choice, Rence.”

Napayuko siya sa sinabi ko at medyo naging awkward ang hangin sa amin. But thank god because the host broke our awkward moment.

“And for her very last dance, is no other than his very supportive, loving, and handsome daddy… Mr. Reynaldo Fontanilla.” the host announced and everyone gave Daddy a arround of applause. Clarence handed me to Dad and the latter just smile at him.

“Happy Birthday, baby.” Daddy said, smiling. He handed me the bouquet of roses and I took it, smiling.

“Thanks, Dad.”

We started dancing. Nagngingitian lang kami habang nakatitig sa isa’t isa. I saw longing in his eyes and it makes me sad because we have a gap with each other. I miss him so much. I sighed.

“I miss you, Daddy.” wala sa sarili kong sabi. Bigla naman niya kong niyakap kaya napasubsob ako sa dibdib niya. At ’don ko na naramdaman ang pagbagsak ng mga luha ko. Omygosh!

“I miss you so much, baby. Daddy will always love you no matter what. Hmm…” I nodded and he kissed the top of my head. I love you, Daddy. Always!

After that moment ay tapos na ’yung eighteens. ’Yung iba ay nagpaalam ng magsisi-uwi while others will be staying for drinks. Syempre hindi papatalo diyan ang mga kaibigan ko. Kidding!

I changed my clothes into more comfortable dress. Papatalo ba ’ko sa pag-inom? Of course not. Joke! After kong magpalit ay dumiretso na ulit ako sa venue para puntahan na sina Louis.

Marami pa rin ang tao kaya luminga linga ako para hanapin sila. Sa kakalinga ko ay natagpuan ko naman sila kung saan sila nakaupo kanina. Dapat nga ay sa isang exclusive bar ang after party ko kaso ay hindi pumayag sina Mommy dahil hassle pa daw sa byahe. So ang ending ay dito kami mag-iinom. Shit! I missed this.

“Gurl! Happy Birthday. Punyeta ka! Bongga ng birthday mo!” Louis bursted. Natatawa naman akong niyakap siya. Matapos ko siyang yakapin ay isa-isa ko silang niyakap.

“So, what now? Let’s fucking drink, bitches!” I spat and they howled like wild fire. Nagpakuha ako ng tatlong tequila para magkalasingan na kami agad. Mas lalo naman silang naghiyawan. Napapatingin na nga mga bisita samin, especially the oldies.

Nagtatawanan kami dahil sumasayaw ’yung tatlong boys ng bigla akong kalabitin ni Claire. Nakangiti ko naman siyang binalingan. “Yes?”

“Where’s Zeyn? Hindi ba pupunta? Kanina ko pa siya hinahanap e.” she asked. Napairap naman ako sa hangin ng dahil sa tanong niya. Bakit ba siya ang hinahanap nila. Siya ba ang may birthday? Tsk!

“He’s not co—”

“See, even your friend is asking your man.” Kuya Kierr cutted me off. I glared at him. Epal kahit kelan. “Well, this bitch ditch that guy already. Poor guy!”

“Hey, I already told you that I didn’t ditch him. Can we please don’t talk about him. Why don’t you join us instead. Hmm?!”

He smirked and glance at Claire. Bigla naman nag-iwas si Claire ng tingin. Hindi ko na lang sila pinansin at uminom ng shot kahit hindi pa sa akin. I giggled.

Nagpatuloy ang pag-inom namin at nakakadalawang Cuervo na kami. Medyo tinatamaan na ’ko kaya kailangan kong umihi. Nagpaalam akong iihi muna na tinanguan lang naman nila.

While I’m walking towards the comfort room. Nakasalubong ko sina Mommy, Daddy and Rei. They both smiling at me and so I did.

“Hey, slow down, okay? We’re leaving. I know you’re enjoying the moment but drink responsibly.” Mommy spat. I nodded.

“Noted, Mommy. But leave Rei here. I wanna spend time with her.” I pleaded. Nagkatinginan naman si Mom and Dad habang nangingiti si Rei. If I were know, kanina pa niyan gusto uminom.

“Okay, baby. But don’t let her drink that much, okay? She still young for alcohol. I will just allowed her tonight because its your birthday.” Daddy said. I giggled. “We’ll be leaving.”

“Yeah, yeah. Take care, Dad, Mom. I love you!”

Nang makalayo sila Mommy and Daddy ay napatalon kami sa saya ni Rei. Ayaw kasi siya payagan nina Mommy mag-inom, e dati sakin wala naman silang pake bakit ’nong kay Rei nagkaroon ng care. Unfair, right?!

“Thank you, Ate. I love you talaga. Let’s go?”

“You go first, I’ll just pee. Kanina pa ’ko naiihi e.” tumango naman siya atsaka naglakad papunta sa table namin nina Primo.

Matapos kong maka-ihi ay saktong paglabas ko ng banyo ay natanaw ko ang pamilyar na likod ni Zack. Oh, he came. I walked towards him.

“Hey, you came. Have you eaten?” tanong ko ng makalapit sa kanya. Nakangiti naman siyang bumaling sa akin.

“Happy Birthday, Reese. Pasensya ka na kung na-late ako ng dating. May inasikaso lang na ibang bagay. Dumaan lang ako para ibigay sa’yo ’to. Aalis na din ako.” he said then handed me a two presents.

“Hindi ka na sana nag-abala pa. But I won’t allow you to leave here without even eating.” I spat. Napakamot naman siya ng batok atsaka napatango-tango. I smiled.

Pinigilan ko magtanong sa kanya tungkol sa Kuya niya. Sinamahan ko siya papunta sa buffet para makakain. Nang makakuha siya ay naupo na din kami sa bakanteng upuan. Naupo din ako para may kasama baka kasi biglang umalis kapag iniwan ko.

“Don’t be shy, okay? Kapag gusto mo pa, umulit ka lang. Iiwan muna kita saglit. Papasok ko lang sa room ’tong mga regalo mo.”

Patayo na ’ko ng pigilan niya ’ko sa braso. Nagkatinginan kami. I arched my left brow. He took out something from his pocket and gave it to me. An envelope. My brows knitted.

“What is it?” I frowned.

“Pinabibigay ni Kuya. Actually sa kanya galing ’yung isang regalo diyan. Dapat mamaya ko na ibibigay sa’yo. E tutal tatabi mo na din naman ’yung regalo, bigay ko na rin ’to.”

I took it from him and I left him without saying anything. Pagkapasok ko sa kwarto ay napabuntong hininga ako ng malakas dahil sa nangyari kanina. Fúck!

I walked towards the table na may mga regalong natanggap ko kanina. Ang dami nila at mukhang matatagalan akong mag-unbox tomorrow. Nilagay ko na ’don ’yung regalo nina Zack and Zeyn. Napatitig naman ako sa envolope na hawak-hawak. I took a deep breath and decided to open it.

May tatlong bagay lamang akong gustong sabihin sa’yo. Una, nais kitang batiin ng maligayang kaarawan, aking binibini. Pangalawa, nais kong humingi ng tawad sa mga kasalanang nagawa ko sa iyo. At pangatlo, nais kong banggitin sa’yo na ikaw ay akin pa ring iniibig, na ikaw pa rin ang aking tinatangi.

Muli maligayang kaarawan, mahal ko.

Naiinis kong pinahid ang mga luhang lumandas sa mga mata ko. Naiinis ako sa sarili ko. Naiinis ako dahil kahit akong pilit kong kalimutan at kamuhian siya, ay hindi ko maitatanggi… na sa kaibuturan ng puso ko ay nangungulila pa rin ako sa kanya.

Chapter 24

“Where have you been, gurl? Ang tagal mo naman mag-CR.” Louis spat as I approaching our table. I rolled my at her because she’s being OA na naman.

“I went to my room pa kasi. Tinabi ko lang ’yung binigay na regalo ni Zack. Anyway, where is he?” I asked with my brows furrowed. Nginuso naman ni Louis ’yung lugar kung nasaan si Zack. Tumatawa ’to habang kausap si Edward. They’re close din pala.

“Sis, ten seconds ka ng JD since umalis ka kanina. ’Wag kang madaya.” Claire bursted. Napalingon naman ako sa kanya habang sumang-ayon naman halos lahat ng nandito sa table namin. I rolled my eyes while nodding my head timidly.

“Wohoo!!! Birthday, gurl. Birthday, gurl!” they cheered while Kuya Kierr is pouring the JD inside my mouth. After more than ten seconds ay naghiyawan sila at ako naman ay kinuha ng mabilisan ’yung coke na nasa tapat ni Rei. Shocks!

“Damn you, guys!” I complaint. Nagtawanan naman sila atsaka pina-ikot ulit ’yung tagay. I glared Kuya Kierrr and he’s laughing so hard. This asshole! Pinatagal niya pa ’yung pagbilang kaya hindi lang ten seconds ’yon. Fúck!

Naupo naman ako sa tabi ni Rei, sa bandang kaliwa niya. Nasa kanang bahagi kasi niya si Kuya Kierr. Katabi ko naman ang nagmamagandang si Louis.

“Are you having fun?” I whispered to Rei ears. Tumango-tango naman siya atsaka kumuha ng chocolates. “But don’t drink that much. Daddy will kill me kapag uminom ka ng sobra.”

“Yeah, yeah, I know. How ’bout you, are you having fun?” balik niyang tanong. Tumango-tango naman ako bilang sagot. Tumitig pa siya sakin ng ilang minuto pero wala naman siyang sinabi at nagkibit na lang ng balikat.

Mabilis lumipas ang oras and I’m pretty sure that I’m fucking drunk. Shocks! Ramdam ko na ang hilo at medyo blurd na din ’yung paningin ko sa mga kaharap ko. Maingay ang tugtog kaya ’yung iba ay nagsasayawanan. Habang ’yung iba naman ay magulong naghaharutan.

“Bakla, okay ka pa?” I turned back my sight to see who’s asking me that question. It’s Louis.

“Of course, bitch!” I giggled. “Let’s drink more! Where’s my tequila?” hindi siya sumagot at natatawa na lang napailing. This bitch, I’m asking her where’s my shot tas dedma? Bitch talaga!

Napalingon ako sa kapatid ko at mukhang lasing na din siya. Habang si Kuya Kierr naman ay mukhang okay-okay pa naman. I turned on my phone to see what time is it. My eyes widen because its already three:thirty in the morning. Shocks!

Sinenyasan ko si Kuya Kierr na dalin na sa kwarto ko si Rei para makatulog ng maayos. He nodded immediately. So, I stood up and walked towards the bathroom. Pa gewang-gewang akong naglakad papunta ng restroom and thanks gosh dahil nakarating naman ako ng hindi natutumba.

After I pee, I walked towards the sink to sanitize my hands. Napatingin ako sa sarili ko sa salamin at bigla akong napangiti. Shit! Ang ganda ko malasing, kung hindi kayo ganito kaganda malasing ’wag na kayong uminom. Kidding!

Lumabas na ’ko ng banyo ng resorts ng makuntento na ako sa itsura ko. Saktong paglabas ko ng pinto ay ang mukha ni Primo ang sumalubong sa akin. He looked drunk already but I could say na kaya niya pa naman uminom. Wow, strong.

“Hey, dre! Where are you going?!” I asked and giggled. I don’t know as well why the hell I’m laughing. Lasing na talaga ’ko.

“Uhm, I went to the bathroom. You, where have you been?” He spat. Napasinok pa siya habang pilit nilalabanan ’yung pagpikit ng mata niya. I chuckled.

“Umihi lang din ako.” I smirked. Napagisi din siya atsaka kami nagtawanan dalawa kahit wala namang nakakatawa. Nang matapos kami sa pagtawa ay napatitig ako sa labi niya. It looks kissable. “Can I kiss you?”

His eyes widen and shook his head immediately. My brows knitted and rolled my eyes. Fuck! Lasing na lasing na talaga ’ko. Kung ano-ano na ang pinagsasabi ko. Sana hindi ako ma-cringe sa sarili ko bukas kapag naalala ko ’to.

“But why? Your lips looks kissable. I just want to try it. Please, Primo.” I pleaded and shook my lips. Natatawa naman siyang napailing atsaka tumalikod sa akin para maglakad palayo. Kiss lang pinagdadamot pa niya. I sighed.

Naglakad na din ako pabalik sa table namin nina Claire. And naabutan ko siyang nakadukdok na sa lamesa ang mukha. I roamed my eyes in surrounding, looking for Louis. Then I saw her annoying Edward. I chuckled. What a night.

May ilan-ilan pang okay pero halos lahat ay lasing na talaga. I took another bottle of teuqila because I want to drink more. Halos konti na lang kaming natira dahil nag-uwian na pala ’yung iba. Hindi ko lang napansin dahil nga medyo lasing na ’ko.

Hinatid na nina Edward at Louis sina Claire and Yohan because they’re fucking wasted. Weak shit moments. I giggled. Tatlo na lang kami nina Kuya Kierr and Primo ang nandito sa table. I poured a shot glass with tequila and sipped it straight. I poured another shot of tequila and handed it to Primo.

Bumalik naman ulit sina Louis and Edward kaya inabot kami ng ala sais ng umaga sa pag-inom. Natigil na lang kami ng magkayayaan ng matulog. Fuck! I have flight nga pala tomorrow.

Two PM na ng hapon ng magising ako at parang binibiyak ang ulo ko sa sobrang sakit. Shit! Tumakbo ko sa banyo ng maramdaman kong nasusuka ako. Ugh, gross!

Maiyak-iyak at nanlalata akong nagmumog sa sink habang hinahaplos ang sarili kong tiyan. Tangina last na inom ko na talaga ’yon. Promise! Swear! Cross my heart.

Bumalik ako sa pagkakahiga ng makaramdam ako ng sobrang panlalata. Maybe, papa-sched ko na lang tomorrow ’yung flight ko. Kaya bago ulit ako bumalik sa pagkakatulog ay nag-text ako kay Daddy na tomorrow na lang ako pupuntang Thailand.

Gabi na ng magising ulit ako, wala si Rei sa kwarto ng magising ako kaya ni-text ko siya. Nagreply naman siyang nakauwi na siya sa bahay at sa kanya na din daw nagpaalam ang mga kaibigan ko. So, mag-isa na lang pala ko dito sa resort.

Hindi ako makakain kaya energy drink na lang ang ininom ko. I don’t want to take meds naman kasi. Pinagkaabalahan ko na lang buksan ’yung mga regalo ko. I opened first ’yung regalo ni Mommy and got shocked when I saw a car key. What the actual fúck?! Si Rei naman ay gold watch ang regalo, ’yung mga kaibigan ko ay kung hindi damit, make-up or sapatos. 

After unboxing more than ten gifts, my eyes glanced to Zeyn’s gift. I took it and wrecked the gift wrap immediately, then I saw a galaxy rose. My brows furrowed because of his gift. What does his gift mean? I took my phone and search the meaning of it. The galaxy rose symbolizes love, care, companion, and respect. I laughed sarcastically. Really, regalo niya ’to? Damn him!

“Mag-iingat kayo ’don, ha!” Manang Ine said and slightly smiled. She wiped her tear immeadiately that made my jaw dropped. Nagkatinginan kami ni Ate Sarah at napabuntong hininga na lang siya. Niyakap niya si Manang atsaka hinarap sa kanya.

“’Ma, uuwi pa naman kami ni Reese, ano ka ba! Hindi naman kami aabutin ’don ng isang buwan. Para naman kaming ihahatid na sa huling hantungan.” tumawa si Ate Sarah para maging light ang paligid. Tumawa na din ako at hinagod ang likod ni Manang.

“Manang, Ate Sarah’s right. Babalik po kami after ng operation. So, don’t think too much. Okay?” mahinahon kong sabi at napatango-tango naman siya.

“Alam ko naman na uuwi kayo. Hindi ko lang talaga maiwasan mag-isip ng kung ano-ano at first time ni Sarah na pupunta ng ibang bansa.”

“Don’t worry, Manang. Hindi po namin pababayaan ni Ate Sarah ang isa’t isa. ’Tsaka pangako ko po, uuwian kita ng maraming pasalubong.” I smiled. Napangiti naman si Manang kaya nakampante na din kami ni Ate Sarah.

Makalipas pa ang ilang minuto ay kumalma na si Manang at sakto naman na flight na namin. Sa huling pagkakataon ay yumakap kami ni Ate Sarah kay Manang at kumaway. Nang makasakay na kami sa eroplano ay binalik ko sa ulo ko ’yung headphones atsaka pinikit ang mga mata.

After three hours and thirty minutes we arrived in Suvarnabhumi Airport. Before going to our hotel, we decided to eat lunch first. We went to the nearest Bon since it’s lunch time. I heard that Bon Chon here in Thailand is a must try, so let’s have a try.

“Uhm, Reese. Matanong nga lang kita. Iyan bang operation mo ay gagawin mo dahil gusto mo o gagawin mo dahil may pinaglalaanan kang tao.” she suddenly asked while chewing her food. I sighed.

“I’m doing this because I want to feel complete. And I’m doing this for myself, only for myself… not for anyone.” I spat. She nodded her head repeatedly and sighed.

“At least ’di ba alam mo sa sarili mo na kaya mo ’yan ginagawa ay para sa ikakasaya mo, hindi para sa ikakasaya ng ibang tao.”

“Exactly.”

Nag-usap pa kami pero sa ibang bagay na. Mabilis niyang iniba ’yung topic. After namin kumain ay dumiretso na kami sa hotel na pina-booked ni Daddy sa secretary niya. Nang makarating kami sa hotel ay pumasok agad ako sa kwarto at naligo.

After I took a bath, I applied lotion all over my body then wear my PJ. I did my skincare routine as well. Nag-blower ako ng hair para mabilis matuyo, parang kulang kasi ako sa tulog. Nang matuyo na ’yung hair ko ay umakyat ako sa kama para mag-nap.

Kinabukasan na kami lumabas ni Ate Sarah since two days before pa naman ’yung operation kaya may oras pa kami to do window shopping. Yeah, I know marami na kong natanggap na regalo ’nong birthday but this is not for me, this is for my loved ones.

After namin mag-shopping ni Ate Sarah ay kumain na din kami ng lunch, then I search for coffee shop para magising ang diwa ko. We visit some of their tourist places and attractions. I smiled when I saw Ate Sarah enjoying our staying here.

So, for the next two days before my operation what we did was to visit all the tourist places and attractions here in Thailand. Ni-try ko ’yung iba’t ibang coffee shop kada may madadaanan kaming coffee shop sa pinupuntahan namin. Picture dito, video diyan ang nangyari. After ng paglilibang namin ay dumating na ’yung araw na pinakahinihintay ko.

My operation came and I’m fúcking nervous and excited at the same time. Para akong aatakehin ng pinapasok na ’ko sa operation room. I looked at Ate Sarah and she’s smiling at me. Looking so proud Ate.

“Good luck. Ipagdarasal kita.” she said and smiled. I slightly smiled at her and mouthed ‘thank you’. Nang makapasok ako sa operation at tinurukan ng pampatulog ay malalim akong napabuntong-hininga. It is what it is.

When I opened my eyes, all I see was white background. Then when I felt is someone is holding my hand. I craned my neck to the side and I saw Ate Sarah looking ecstatic. I swallowed the lump on my throat before I began to speak.

“A-ate…”

“Jusko, Reese! Congrats.” I saw how her eyes watered and hugged me immediately. Niyakap ko siya pabalik kahit na nahihirapan akong kumilos. Hindi ko na din napigilan ang maiyak dahil sa tuwa.

“Ate, I’m finally a woman.” I cried. Napatitig ako sa gitnang bahagi ng katawan ko. Hindi ko maiwasan na mamahanga dahil sa ganda ng itsura at matuwa dahil sa wakas ay kumpleto na ’ko. “After eighteen years… fucking eighteen years of existence. Finally!”

“Matagal ka ng babae, Reese. Matagal na. Pero masaya kong natupad na ang isa sa mga pinapangarap mo.”

For the very last time, we hugged each other. Maya-maya lang din ay dumating na ’yung doktor na nag-opera sakin. We just talked about how I should take care of my pussy and some important reminders. I said my regards to him and he congratulate me for my successful operation.

We stayed at hospital for another two days then five days in our hotel. So, we stayed for another week in Thailand. Agad tumawag sina Daddy and Mommy at tinanong kung kamusta ’yung operation ko. Sinabi naman namin na successful kaya nakahinga sila ng maluwag including Rei. My friends did not forget to ask how my operation went, I told them that it was successful, and they could’ve been more proud of me.

Mabilis naman akong naka-recover kaya before kaming umuwi ni Ate Sarah ay nakapamili pa kami ng mga pasalubong. Sa sobrang saya ko ay ang dami kong pinamili. 

“Choose one.” I spat. I’m holding a two beautiful bags from Chanel. I looked at her while waiting her to choose.

“Hoy, hindi na, Reese. Ano ka ba! Ang dami mo ng nabili sa’kin.” pagtanggi niya pero mabilis akong umiling. Hindi pwedeng hindi siya pumili. After ng pag-aalaga niya sa’kin for almost two weeks, no way. “’Wag na talaga. Nakakahiya.”

“Okay, bibilin ko na lang ’tong dalawa since hindi ka makapili.” I turned back at her and lalapit na sana sa SA ng pigilan niya ’ko. I smirked before facing her.

“’Yung black na lang. Maraming salamat, Reese.” teary eyed niyang sabi. I shook my lips and head. I hugged her because she was about to cry.

“You’re always welcome, Ate. Let’s go?” I asked and she nodded. After I paid for her bag we went back to our hotel.

Kinabukasan mga seven AM namin napagpasyahan na umuwi ng pinas ni Ate Sarah. Nakahanda naman na lahat ng gamit kaya bumyahe na kami papuntang Suvarnabhumi Airport. Since maaga pa ay wala masyadong tao. I’m holding my brewed coffee and passport while listening music to my headphones.

Nang makasakay na ulit kami sa airport ay ni-relax ko ang sarili ko dahil ang aga pa masyado. Since nasa tabi ako ng bintana ay kitang kita ko ’yung ganda ng ulap kaya ni-videohan ko siya. I posted it on my Instagram story right away. Fúck, evil eye.

After I posted it, I closed my eyes to take a nap. Naalimpungatan ako at nasakay pa rin kami sa eroplano. I glanced at Ate Sarah, and she’s sleeping peacefully. I took my phone to see how many hours I had slept. Shocks! Thirty fucking minutes!

Binuksan ko ’yung data ng phone ko kaya maraming notifications ang nag-pop up. Halos karamihan ay galing sa IG story ko. Pinindot ko ’yung username ni Louis dahil nag-reply siya.

wisgarcia:

bitch, what time ka makakauwi?

ris:

ten thirty-ish, i guess.

Sinend ko na ’yung reply ko. I arched my left brow when she seen it already. Mukhang hindi lasing ang haliparot kagabi. I chuckled inside my head.

wisgarcia:

oh, are you allowed to drink na ba? saturday kasi today and they’re planning to drink later.

Pwede na nga ba ’ko uminom? Baka naman pwede na kaya ni-replayan ko siya na go ako later. Ni-heart react lang naman niya kaya nag-exit ako sa Instagram atsaka nagpunta ng Tiktok. Doon ako nag-scroll-scroll. Nang ma-bored ako kaka-scroll ay bumalik ulit ako ng IG. I checked how many views I had in an hour. Fifteen thousands. I shrugged.

Dahil na-curious ako sa mga tao sa request message ko ay pinindot ko ’yon. Pero titingnan ko na sana ng biglang mag-notif ’yung GC namin sa messenger. Pinindot ko ’yon ng mabasa ko ’yung message ng mabuti.

Louis Garcia:

@ everyone gising na pauwi na ’yung dyosa sa pinas kaya makakasama siya satin later.

Nag-react naman kami ng ‘haha’ ni Claire habang naka-seen naman si Yohan, wala pa naman ’yung dalawa. Still sleeping, I guess. Pero mukhang may sasabihin sina Claire dahil nagpa-pop up ’yung profile nila pero bigla namang mawawala. Nagtipa ako ng sasabihin.

Reese Jan Fontanilla:

what time ang call time?

Yohan Nate Alcantara:

ten, pero okay lang kung malelate ka mamaya. baka may jet lag ka pa.

Nag-heart react naman ako at nakitang naka-seen na ’yung dalawa. Alam kong eepal na sila kaya hindi muna ’ko nag-exit. At hindi nga ako nagkamali ng mag-reply ang isa sa kanila.

Edward Wayne Fabian:

pasalubong, reese. dalin mo na lang mamaya sa inuman.

Primo Jayce Santillan:

ang uwi niyan sa’yo bro ay mani, pang pulutan mamaya.

Reese Jan Fontanilla:

hala! pa’no niyo nalaman?

Nag-react naman silang lahat ng ‘haha’ sa reply ko kaya natatawa din akong napapailing sa upuan ko. Kung ano-ano pang kalokohan ang pinagsasabi namin sa GC hanggang sa magpaalam ako. I want to sleep pa kasi, and matagal pa naman ’yung travel namin.

But before I went to sleep. I tapped my request message from Instagram then I saw a lot of messages. I scroll-down to see interesting profile pic but instead of profile pic. One username caught my attention. Account para kay love. Cringe! But I opened it since I wondered why it was in here. Habang binabasa ko ’yung message ay alam ko na kung sino ’yon. My hands were shaking while reading his messages. Shit!

AccountParaKayLove

: laro lang ako sa court saglit, love

: punta lang akong palengke kulang pala kasi yung sangkap na nabili ko, wala naman akong mautusan.

: nagluto akong carbonara, diba favorite mo ’to?

: eto nangungulila sayo, i miss you :(

: loVe AyAw ka nIlAng icHHat diba susUnDuin mo naman ako? taNgiNa miss na miSSs na kita RJ! bAlik Ka na PleAaEsEess.

Damn. I shut my eyes tight as I remember all his red flags. Fúck you! Fúck you and your toxic mentality. Because from now on… I willl no longer your love. From now on, I will not listen to your lies. Period!