DECEIVED
Fiore retrieved a bag from a nearby cabinet, as if it had been prepared for departure and was waiting for someone to claim it."Please, F-Fiore," I pleaded, abruptly standing up to prevent him from leaving. "D-Don't abandon me..." I wrapped my arms around him from behind. "P-Please, Fiore, I love you. I never had feelings for anyone else. You're the only one I love. Those moments you witnessed were misunderstandings. When I closed my eyes, it was your face I saw. Fiore, it's always been you..."He simply wrested my hands away and walked away. My heart and eyes burned, but I followed him like a desperate child."F-Fiore, please... Don't leave me." Fiore turned and looked straight at me. I met his handsome face, his remorseful eyes focused on me. The same eyes I fell in love with when we first met. I recognized them, but they lacked the spark, the colors. The love that was once mine had vanished. I was no longer the apple of his eye, the most cherished person in his life. It was all gone."Miranda, I forgive you. Both you and Xylon. You have the option to be with him. If you prefer him, I'll be willing to let you go...""I don't want him. I want you, Fiore."He gently tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear. He was still tender and incredibly kind, the qualities in Fiore that I admired."But you still betrayed me, Mir. You didn't love me." I shook my head firmly."You're welcome to stay as long as you need. I'll explain to my parents and to your aunt why a wedding won't work for us anymore."My chest constricted, threatening to unleash agonizing pain. Fiore caressed my tear-stained cheek."They'll understand. They won't judge you. I'll take care of it." He glanced at Xylon, who stood there, his jaw clenched and fists tightened. He had no right to unleash his suppressed anger.God, he's despicable! He's the demon responsible for all of this. Why didn't he speak up? Why didn't he express his thoughts? His silence was driving me mad. He's a beast!"F-Fiore...""Goodbye, Mir."Fiore stepped further away from me. With every attempt to follow him, my trembling feet betrayed me. I could no longer move. The folded blanket fell upon me as the door closed, a white canvas on which my infidelity was revealed. The splattered red blood resembled a painter's brushstroke. Beside the blanket lay the red handkerchief I had used to cover my eyes. I had been willing to offer my virginity to Fiore. He had expressed his desire for it to be passionate, intense, wild, and seductive. So I undressed in our bedroom, blindfolded myself, surprising him with my willingness to give myself to the one I cherished the most. But then... Tears welled up in my eyes once again. Fiore was no longer by my side. He was gone."Miranda..." I was on the verge of bursting when I looked at Xylon. He still wore his boxers, his hair disheveled, and his lips stained bright red. If I had known it was him I was intimate with, I would have bitten his lips until they swelled, silencing him."You're worse than a beast, Xylon. I hate you. Curse you!"RemorselessThe mesmerizing expanse of the woods in varying sizes captivated my gaze through the glass window. Not a single house could be spotted, only the imposing presence of tall trees since Fiore brought me to this secluded place.My attention was diverted as a sound drew near."You should have something to eat." Xylon placed a plate of Arroz Caldo on the table near me. The tantalizing aroma of the dish and the delightful scent of garlic wafted in the air.Fiore brought him along, smug with his culinary skills, aside from being Fiore's best friend. He excelled at cleaning and was an exceptional driver. Everyone seemed aware of these qualities. As a result, Fiore became overly reliant on him, always turning to him for favors. Jealousy would occasionally gnaw at me, as if they shared a deeper connection and I was merely a decorative piece between them. Nevertheless, I understood their bond predating my acquaintance with them."Softy, please, eat while it's still hot."I glanced at h
MistakeI rose to my feet, suppressing my emotions. If I didn't distance myself from him, I might forget that he's my beloved fiancé's best friend. I might lose control and unleash curses upon him. My mind is filled with countless possibilities and dreadful thoughts right now."Where are you going?" Xylon questioned as I began walking away."To a place where you're not present!"I exited the old house. I desired to leave, to find Fiore and be with him. But deep down, I knew it would be futile, just another waste of time and exhausting effort.Just like last night. When I heard the engine roar, I rushed out and followed Fiore. Yet, he didn't even spare me a glance. So I returned and attempted to start the old, rusty car in the cluttered garage, covered in dust and dirt.I needed to explain myself. I longed for him to listen, to follow him wherever he may go. But that heap of junk refused to start. I desperately tried once more to chase after Fiore. It was then I realized, I was complete
AccidentalThe scent of lavender perfume filled the air, its exquisite fragrance enveloping me. I sprayed it all over my body, leaving no corner untouched. I wanted Fiore to be greeted by the intoxicating aroma of our intimate encounter as soon as he entered the room. Scented candles were strategically placed, casting a romantic glow. Outside, the only traces of nature were the dry leaves falling from the tall trees surrounding the house, so I spread them at the foot of the bed, adding a touch of natural beauty. I wanted this moment to be perfect.This would be my first time, and it was hard to think of something sexy or wild and hot, as Fiore had warned me against using such adjectives when making love. But I found the candles to be sexy, and Fiore had always complimented my body, saying I was sexy and had a figure to die for. I wanted to embody that word.There were wild, dried leaves surrounding me, evoking a sense of untamed passion.The flame from the scented candles would create
Sweet Kiss"F-Fiore?" I called out softly, my voice filled with a mixture of anticipation and nervousness. "Mir..."I bit my lip, trying to locate his position in the room. His voice sounded near, yet distant at the same time. Slowly, I positioned myself on the bed, the darkness enveloping me due to the blindfold covering my eyes. Taking a deep breath, I focused on listening, feeling his gaze upon me. The warm glow of the surrounding candles intensified the heat coursing through my body, as he witnessed me wearing nothing but the blindfold that concealed my eyes. Footsteps drew nearer, causing my heart to race even faster. Was he staring at me right now? Did he delight in seeing me in this vulnerable state? Had he anticipated that I would be naked and ready to be devoured tonight? I yearned to know his thoughts, but I had to exercise patience and wait for his next move. "Fiore," I whispered his name, a plea to confirm his presence. The footsteps grew closer, and as I felt the motio
Sensuous I NESTLED into the crumpled sheets beside me, yearning for something to hold onto, as if I were teetering on the edge of a precipice, even though I was already nestled in the comfort of my bed.Then, his touch, like a scorching flame, seared my skin. A gasp escaped my lips as he gently cupped both of my breasts simultaneously."Oh, my..." I couldn't help but utter those words, overwhelmed by the intensity of the moment.As I felt his tender, sticky, and moist caresses, I instinctively quivered. It dawned on me that he was toying with my nipples, lavishing them with his tantalizing licks, gentle nibbles, and skilled massages with his roughened hands. It was a side of Fiore I had never experienced before—a desperate longing and an insatiable desire to savor every inch of me.His actions filled me with an exquisite impatience, both teasing and titillating, for I yearned for more.I yearned for his touch to venture lower, to demonstrate how ready I was to embark on this passionat
Never "Hello, Softy! Hey!" Xylon's familiar taunt made me roll my eyes. I turned around, facing him head-on. "Don't greet me like that! How many times do I have to tell you that my name is not Softy?" Irritated, I turned away and took a step to distance myself.Yet, Xylon swiftly grabbed my arm. "Come on, let's go home," he insisted."Let me go!" I struggled against his grip."You're so stubborn!" he exclaimed as he pulled me along."How did you even find me here?" I asked, my irritation mounting."You've been gone for quite some time. What did you expect? My conscience wouldn't allow me to abandon you. And why are you out here, all alone in the middle of nowhere, Miranda?""Why do you care?" I retorted, desperate to break free. "I just wanted some solitude.""So, you crave solitude. But why?" He paused, and our eyes locked. "Are you trying to relive the passion we shared yesterday? Huh, Miranda?" His face came close to mine, almost brushing against it."What?" I swallowed, taken abac
Muscles THE ticking of the clock above my head felt unbearably intrusive. It had been two hours since I reluctantly woke up this morning. I went through my usual morning routine—taking a shower, brushing my teeth, running a comb through my long, lustrous black hair, and hastily throwing on the first article of clothing I could find in my suitcase. Instead of tending to my grumbling stomach, I tried to lull myself back to sleep. As I lay on the bed, I shifted uncomfortably, my hips aching from the constant readjustment in search of a position that could silence the hunger pangs. The emptiness in my belly was undeniable. I could almost envision the tantalizing sight of the steam rising from a bowl of delicious Arroz caldo, lovingly prepared by the jerk outside my room. The aroma of the fragrant chicken, ginger, and the hint of salt wafted through the air, tempting my senses. "Ah! Damn it!" I exclaimed, my frustration growing.I turned over, feeling a pang of self-pity. If only Fiore w
Cry and Pity I TURNED around and took a deep breath, trying to understand the unfamiliar emotions welling up inside me. As I searched for Xylon, I heard a sound coming from the kitchen and found him sitting in front of a steaming bowl of soup. His gaze met mine as he sensed my presence."I don't understand why some people waste their food," he remarked, beginning to scoop the spoon into the bowl. He glanced at me and continued, "I know you don't want to eat, so I'll finish this all by myself." Before taking a bite, he blew on the hot soup, closing his eyes and savoring each mouthful. "This tastes really good. Especially with the boiled eggs, sesame oil, and fried garlic," he added with a snort of satisfaction.Feeling disgusted, I walked towards the fridge to get some water. Cold water would temporarily satisfy my hunger and help calm my frustrated mind. "Ah... it's delicious..." he asserted, and I couldn't help but wonder why he was behaving this way. "Damn him! Why is he acting like
The Shadow Has GoneI tapped Kiko on his back. He's in charge of the lights and sounds for tonight's Foundation day celebration."Dude, make sure I'm not getting involved with this!" he threatened me. "I don't want to be expelled. We're already graduating.""I'll take care of you. Just watch for my signal. You know what to do.""As long as you take care of my thesis.""I'll take care of it." We did a fist bump and then readied ourselves.‘You're crazy Xylon Diaz. They said that you were the notorious lady killer. Almost all girls are into you. What nonsense is this you're thinking? Over a girl, you didn't even know? Where's your charm, man?&r
I Love You"I love you.""What?" she looks fascinated."Jeg elsker dig... means I love you. I've always loved you, Miranda. You just didn't know, but there were so many times I wanted to snatch you away from Fiore. Every time I see you, I am so disgusted with myself. I wished I had confessed to you right away. I wished I was the one you had chosen. I wished I was the one who was there with you... I wished..." I was startled when I looked back at her. She's crying. "M-Mir...""I-I wish you're with me every time I remember the day of my parents' death. I wish you're the one I was talking to on the other line before I go to sleep at night. I wish Xyle... I wish you were my first boyfriend. My first date. My first kiss..."
The Meaning of the WordThe view of the orange sky covered the entire surrounding where we sat. The resort was still filled with guests, and the smell of freshly mowed lawn filled the air. I encircled Miranda with my arms as she leant on my shoulder. I couldn't possibly ask for anything more in this world right now."Are you tired?" I inquired of her."Yes, indeed. But it's all worthwhile, Xylon. I thought this would never happen.”I wrapped my two hands around her and hugged her tightly. "I had the same thought. You're so far away. Your eyes weren't looking at me."She let out a soft laugh. "You're wrong. Because you were so close at the time, my eyes became accustomed to your presence.
Granted Wish"F*ck, I am!"Xylon pulled my chin up, forcing me to look into his teary eyes. "Please don't let me repeat it, Softy. Allow me and I'll prove to you—"I didn't let him finish what he’s about to say. I tiptoed and kissed him on his lips. "Then start proving your love to me now," I demanded.I saw him bite his lip and he immediately complied by grabbing my ass with both of his hands and lifted me.The groaning sound of his piano spread throughout the entire room as he gently slammed me to sit on his keyboard.Xylon kissed me. Like he was thirsty for it. He touched me. Like his life depends on it. Unexplainable emotions overfl
I Will Love YouThough my tears were stubborn as they continued to fall down my cheeks, I still tried to control and wiped them using my fingers. My hands and my knees were shaking.I wanted to know if I was dreaming or I was just imagining. But I panicked when I saw Xylon step away as if he didn't notice me."What?!" I growled at him. "What, Xylon? You're going to leave? Huh?" I asked, trying to calm myself. "Don't turn your back on me! Why didn't you tell me about this house? Why did you lie?"I tried to approach him. But I could only take a step because my knees were still trembling."I could have escaped this place back then. You told me this was too far from f*cking civilizations! You tol
Leaving Her"That’s bullsh*t, Fiore!" I confronted him angrily. "Why don't you tell her directly? If you don't love her, then just set her free.""And disappoint my parents once again? My parents want me to only marry her. So I'm taking her back from you!""She's not a thing, Fiore!" I howled. I was running out of patience. "You asked me to let her fall for me—""I did! And you didn't win her at all. She still loves me, Xylon. You had your chance and you blew it all off."I was embarrassed by what he stressed out and I immediately fell silent. Everything wasn't enough for Miranda to also see me like the way she looks at Fiore. I could never change the shape of her heart.
Forgive Himself"Son, Fiore came by and brought his lawyer here."I was alarmed by what dad announced when I arrived home. I was gone for a week to complete all of the lines of my compositions."Dad, we've already discussed this." I looked at him seriously.My father is a jolly, upbeat sort of a person. But he seems to be having a hard time talking to me right now. I discerned this is going to be bad.“He requested that we sign a contract, which we did—""Why did you sign!" I raised my voice in panic. My hands landed on the table in front of the two of us. I couldn't contain the anger I was feeling inside me.
Seduce Her"Kuya Xylon!" Sheena hugged me as soon as I arrived at the district hospital."How's Mum?" I asked worriedly.Sheena told me that mum has to stay here for a few days. There was an intravenous attached to her hand when I entered her room. She was sedated. Exhaustion was noticeable on her hollow cheek."How are you son?” Dad patted me on the shoulder.“I’m okay, Dad. How did mum end up here?”“Son, your mother was unable to accept that our company has failed. In a week, the bank will confiscate all our assets."I frowned. "Dad, that's not possible. They should have
His Past"Congratulations, Xylon! You're the man, dude. You’ve beaten Ilarde again!" I dodged Kiko's blow. We’re in the same class in Earthquake Engineering."Dude, not only did Satyr beat Fiore. Do you remember way back before? Fiore was also considered by the principal to be the highest honours, but Xylon still reaped the award," Hamin said. He handed me a glass of speculoos beer."He also got Academic Excellence from DepEd, right? How could Fiore win over Xylon Diaz? Aside from being a babe magnet, he's equally talented." Peter tapped my shoulder, and I put down the glass of drink. "I heard your new composition was lined up under Nebula Records, ah! What the heck? You write songs. You sing. What else can you do, man? You can dig everything!"