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Kabanata 23
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2024-10-29 19:42:56
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Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 24
KABANATA 24Atasha's POV"Let go of me!" sigaw ko kay Elias habang inaagaw ang braso ko sa kanya.Hinila niya ako palabas ng pinto bago niya ako binitawan. Ramdam ko ang galit niya dahil sa pag-igting ng kanyang panga, pinipigilan ang sarili."Who told you to come here?" may diin na halos mamamaos na tanong niya sa akin.Nagbuga ako ng hangin at inayos ang nakatabing na buhok sa mukha ko. "Ikaw ang dapat na tanungin ko niyan, Elias. What the hell are you doing here?!""It's none of your business okay?" tugon niya sa akin, dahilan para pandilatan ko, hindi ako makapaniwala sa sinabi niya."What? It's none of my business?! Nag-alala ako sayo kaya narito ako sa ospital dahil buong akala ko may nangyari sayo na masama! Tapos ito?! Ito ang madadatnan ko?!" sigaw ko sa kanya, wala na talaga ako sa sarili ko sa mga oras na ito. Wala na rin akong pakialam sa paligid ko."Can you please just stop?!""Stop?!" hindi makapaniwalang sigaw ko. "You want me to stop?! Matapos lahat ng ginagawa niyo s
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 25
KABANATA 25Atasha's POVIn the morning when I woke up, I packed all my belongings and didn't leave a single one behind. I occupied five suitcases and several boxes with my things because I really had that much. Sa ilang taon ba naman naming magkasama ni Elias dito sa malaking condo unit na ito? Hindi na ako magtataka kung maipon ng ganito karami ang mga gamit ko.Hawak-hawak ko ang bag ko'y lumabas na sa kwarto upang sumunod sa mga limang taong nagbuhat ng mga gamit ko. Pagkalabas ko'y napansin ko si Elias sa malaking sofa, tahimik lamang na nakaupo roon na tila tulala sa kawalan. Nakakapagtaka nga at narito siya ngayon, buong akala ko'y umalis siya kagabi.Napabuntong hininga ako bago dahan-dahang lumapit upang magpaalam na sa kanya."I'm going to leave now, Elias. Take care yourself," paalam ko ngunit nanatili lamang siyang tahimik. Hindi na ako nag-aksaya pa ng kahit ilang minuto at naglakad na ako papunta sa pinto.Ngunit bago pa ako tuluyang makalabas ay hindi ko inaasahan ang b
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 26
KABANATA 26Atasha's POVIt's been a week since I left Elias, and I admit that adjusting has been difficult. With the help of Kaeon, I was able to find a new place to stay, which is also a condominium building where he lives. While it may not be as high-quality as the de Marcel properties, I can say that it still has its own quality.It's a good thing that it's far from where Elias is, so that our paths won't cross. It's also convenient that it's close to my restaurant, and there's a possibility that I won't get stuck in traffic.I didn't go to work today as I planned to take a one-week leave to unwind. I need some space for myself, away from everyone who knows me. So I decided to book a flight to go on vacation in El Nido, Palawan.I've talked to Zylee about my upcoming leave, and I've entrusted her with the management of the restaurant while I'm away. I have great trust in her as my Chef Assistant, as she has proven herself to me several times before.After booking my flight and sec
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 27
KABANATA 27Atasha's POVWhen I arrived at the hotel where I had reserved a room, I was immediately welcomed by a hotel staff member who graciously carried my luggage. I also expressed my gratitude to the driver who had fetched me from the airport earlier before following the hotel staff inside.As I entered the hotel lobby, I was struck by its elegant design and warm ambiance. The friendly staff member escorted me to the front desk for check-in, where I was greeted with a refreshing welcome drink. After completing the formalities, the staff member guided me to my room.To my delight, the room had a stunning view of El Nido, Palawan's pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The sight of the picturesque landscape took my breath away, and I knew I was in for a truly unforgettable stay. Thanking the hotel staff for their excellent service, I settled in and eagerly anticipated the adventures that awaited me in this tropical paradise.I never expected El Nido to be this beautiful. If on
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 28
KABANATA 28Atasha's POV"Do you want to see the sky lanterns?" Celsius asked me as we made our way back to the hotel. The late afternoon sun was casting a warm glow over everything after our sightseeing tour."Is there one?""Yes, there's usually one around this time.""Sure," I replied, excitement evident in my voice. "Where is it?""Come, I will show you," replied Celsius as he led me to the beach where a large group of people were holding lit sky lanterns, and preparing to release them into the night sky. The lanterns glowed and danced in the gentle breeze, illuminating the faces of those standing around them.As the lanterns were released, they soared higher and higher, painting the night sky with their soft, warm light. The crowd gasped and cheered as they floated into the darkness, disappearing like stars into the distance.I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder and peace as I watched the lanterns drift away, their flickering lights a symbol of hope and happiness. Celsius s
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 29
KABANATA 29 Atasha's POV When I was a child, every time we attended the weddings of my mom's friends, and I saw how beautiful a bride looked in her wedding gown as she walked down the aisle towards her groom, that's when my dream was formed. I used to think that when I get married, I want it to be to only one person. The first and last man that I will love. As a young girl, I was always captivated by the magic of weddings. The way the bride glided down the aisle in her exquisite gown, radiating happiness and love, left a lasting impression on me. I would watch in awe as she exchanged vows with her groom, promising to love and cherish each other for eternity. It was in those moments that the seed of my dream was planted - to find that one special person with whom I would share a lifetime of love and happiness. I envisioned a future where I, too, would walk down the aisle in a beautiful gown, my heart overflowing with love for the man waiting for me at the end. I longed for a lov
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 30
KABANATA 30 Elias' POV "I made breakfast for you, as I have to go to work," I said seriously to Jocelle before placing the plate I prepared in front of her. Thankfully, she didn't argue and just sat down on the stool. She started eating quietly. I just observed her because it seemed like she had lost her appetite again. It had been a few days now that she seemed disinterested in food. I cleared my throat and took a sip of my coffee. "Your assistant will be arriving soon; she'll take care of you. I probably won't be coming back here for a while as I have a lot to take care of. I haven't been going to work for a few days," I said softly. She only looked at me then. "Is it really because of work, Elias?" she suddenly spoke up. "Jocelle, I can't always stay here. What about my job? My mom has been calling me," I replied. I didn't expect her to slam the spoon she was holding on the table. "Don't use work as an excuse! Are you leaving because of Atasha?" she shouted at me. "Can't
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 31
KABANATA 31Atasha's POVIt has been two days since I arrived back from El Nido, and I find myself returning to my usual routine. The memories of the beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes still fresh in my mind. As I step back into the familiar surroundings of my workplace, I can't help but feel a mix of excitement and anticipation. There is a sense of urgency in the air, as I realize how much work I have missed during my absence. The reports that Zylee diligently prepared have piled up, waiting for my attention. It's time to dive back into the tasks at hand and catch up on everything that needs to be done."Good morning, chef!" Masigla bati mula kay Zylee ang bumungad sa akin pagkapasok ko ng restaurant. "Kumusta po ang bakasyon niyo?" Tanong pa niya."It's fun," nakangiting tugon ko. "You know what, Zy. Let's have vacation sometimes twice a year," saad ko pa bago umupo sa swivel chair.Halatang nagtaka ito sa sinabi ko. "Wow, mukha nga pong maganda ang naging epekto sa inyo
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Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Wakas
WAKASAtasha's POVIt’s been a month since bumalik kami ni Celsius sa Pilipinas! We flew back together, kahit na ilang beses ko na siyang sinabihan na mauna na siya, ayaw pa rin niya. Hinahanap na siya sa work, pero dahil siya ang boss, wala talagang choice ang secretary niya kundi hintayin kami. Nagtagal pa kami sa Seoul for over a week bago kami nag-decide umuwi.Ngayon, isang buwan na ang nakalipas at hindi pa rin siya umaalis sa tabi ko. Alam na niya lahat ng contacts ko, alam niya kung saan ako nakatira, at pati restaurant ko. Honestly, hindi ko alam paano niya nagagawa 'to—imagine, taga-Antipolo siya pero araw-araw siyang pumupunta sa Batangas para makita ako.Nasa restaurant ko siya palagi, nag-aabang hanggang matapos ang shift ko para ihatid ako pauwi. Halos di ko na nagagamit yung kotse ko kasi lagi na lang niyang kinukuha at hinahatid ako. Tapos, just yesterday, binilhan niya ng condo yung sarili niya, malapit lang sa akin! I was totally shocked.I mean, who would've thought
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 40
KABANATA 40Atasha's POVI can feel the chill here at Namsan Tower; ang lamig dito sa gabi! Hindi ako handa, at hindi ako nagdala ng makapal na coat. My breath fogs in the air as I huddle against myself, gazing out at the beautiful city of Seoul.After a moment, naramdaman kong ipinatong ni Celsius ang coat niya sa balikat ko. "Here, mukhang hindi ka komportable sa lamig," he said, smiling as he settled beside me. "Kanina pa tayo naglilibot.""Yeah, you're right," sagot ko, sabay buntong-hininga. "Aren't you freezing? Ibibigay mo ‘to sakin?" I asked with concern.Kahit na suot niya ang thick sweater with a high neckline, alam kong hindi sapat iyon para labanan ang tindi ng lamig. Iba kasi ang chill dito sa Korea—parang mas tumatagos, unlike sa Italy na mas tolerable."Not really," he replied, giving me an assuring smile. "Pero next time, magdala ka ng coat para hindi ka lamigin," paalala niya, gentle but sincere."Yeah, I'll keep that in mind," sabi ko, grateful for his thoughtfulness
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 39
KABANATA 39Atasha's POVRamdam ko ang tension habang nagtitipon kami ng ibang contestants sa stage. Halo-halong emosyon—kaba, excitement, at saya. Sampu kaming nakatayo, ready na harapin ang challenge. Sa first round, kailangan naming magluto ng Bolognese, isang classic Italian pasta na favorite ng marami.Nasa harapan ako ng stove ko, at parang nasa isang eksena ng pelikula. Ang bango ng mga ingredients—matamis na kamatis, malambot na karne, at mga fragrant herbs—pumapalibot sa akin. Pero kahit gaano kasarap amuyin, hindi ko maalis yung kaba.Yung ibang contestants, mukhang seasoned pros. Kita mo sa mga gamit nila na sanay na sila sa ganitong competitions, at may ilan sa kanila, mukhang kilala na sa culinary world.Pero confident ako. Matagal ko nang sinasanay ang sarili ko sa kusina, at Bolognese, kahit hindi ko 'signature dish,' is something I know I can nail."Buongiorno, everyone! Welcome to the 'Pasta Passion' competition! We’ve got a fantastic group of chefs ready to wow us wi
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 38
KABANATA 38Atasha's POVIlang linggo na ang lumipas at sobrang dami nang nangyari, lalo na sa pagitan nina Shuen at Diovanni. Hindi ko maiwasan ang mag-isip sa mga naririnig kong balita tungkol sa kanila. Pinatuloy ko si Shuen sa condo ko after ng insidente, pero di nagtagal, nagdesisyon siyang maghanap ng sarili niyang apartment. Alam kong kailangan niyang magsimula ulit, pero sobra akong nag-aalala para sa kanya.Habang nasa opisina, hirap ako mag-concentrate. Paulit-ulit akong nagbubuntong-hininga, at masakit ang ulo ko sa kakaisip ng mga sinabi ni Shuen. Naalala ko ang mga luha niya at ang sakit na dulot ng mga kasinungalingan ni Diovanni.Gusto ko sanang sugurin si Diovanni, iparamdam sa kanya kung gaano kasakit ang mga ginawa niya. Parang sina Elias at Diovanni-pareho silang sinungaling at manloloko. Hindi ko maintindihan kung bakit parang nasa dugo na nila ang magpaiyak ng babae. Pero alam kong hindi lahat ng de Marcel ay ganito. Tulad ni Alphonsus, na mukhang mas matino at na
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanta 37
KABANATA 37Atasha's POVAfter two years...Dalawang taon na ang nakalipas simula nang mangyari ang lahat. Si Jocelle at Elias ay kasal na ngayon, and according to what I’ve heard, masaya sila kasama ang kanilang nag-iisang anak na babae. Pero honestly, wala na akong balita sa kanila at hindi ko na rin ito pinapansin.Nang ikinasal si Elias sa iba, I decided to cut all ties with the de Marcels. Tuwing may imbitasyon si Alphosus sa family gatherings or birthday parties nila, hindi na ako dumadalo. Wala na akong dahilan para pumunta, kasi tapos na ang lahat para sa akin at kay Elias.Mula noon, wala na silang narinig mula sa akin. I accepted na tapos na ang relasyon namin. Natutunan kong hindi na umasa at hindi na muling tumingin sa mga alaala ng nakaraan. Sa bawat luha na tumulo, nagdesisyon akong hindi na muling lumingon pabalik.Ipinilit kong maghilom sa sarili kong paraan. Umiiyak ako sa sakit, and each time, para bang unti-unti akong nalalambot at nawawalan ng pakialam. Tuwing naii
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 36
KABANATA 36Atasha's POVI did not expect Jocelle to slap me suddenly. The shock hit me hard, leaving only the sting of her hand on my cheek. I stared at her, confused, while instinctively holding my burning face. Ang init sa pisngi ko mula sa lakas ng sampal.“You have such a nerve to ruin my night! You sabotaged my engagement party!” she screamed at me, her finger jabbing accusingly. “Are you jealous kasi ikakasal na ako kay Elias?”As she shouted, I saw Elias stepping closer to her, quickly pulling Jocelle away from me. For a moment, we locked eyes, and I tried to make sense of everything. After shaking off the shock, I stood tall, determined na ipakita sa kanila na hindi ako naapektuhan ng mga paratang nila. I tuned out the murmurs around me.Kaeon rushed to my side, trying to calm me down. Pero ang galit ko ay umaabot na sa sukdulan.“Jealous? Ano bang meron sa’yo na ikakainggit ko?!” I retorted sarcastically, with a grin on my face.“Don’t pretend you’re not jealous! Ramdam ko a
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 35
KABANATA 35Elias' POVThe office was silent, the only sound my pen scratching against paper as I signed document after document. Suddenly, the door burst open, and my cousin Alphonsus stormed in, anger written all over his face. He held the invitation card I’d given him, his brow furrowed tightly.He slammed the card onto my desk, breaking the quiet with a loud noise. I raised an eyebrow, curious about his outburst."What is this, Elias?" he demanded, disbelief clear in his voice. "You’re engaged? To someone else? Not Atasha? Are you out of your mind? Who is Jocelle Sadejas?!" His words came out in a flood of anger, and I sighed, feeling the weight of his accusations."My fiancée," I replied flatly, trying to brush off his outrage."Fiancée?!" he shouted, his voice echoing in the room. "Is this some kind of arranged marriage? There’s no way Uncle Hector would allow you to marry anyone else! Who the hell is this Jocelle Sadejas?!"I shook my head, dead tired from this confrontation. "
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 34
KABANATA 34Atasha's POV"I'm invited!" I exclaimed, a playful smile forming on my lips. "Is that how you greet your guests?" I teased, my eyes sparkling with amusement as I saw the surprise on his face. "I guess you didn’t know I received the invitation from your fiancée," I emphasized the last word, enjoying the way his expression changed.Nakita kong parang hindi na niya alam ang sasabihin. Imbes na sumagot, umubo siya at umiwas ng tingin. Hindi ko napigilan ang ngiti ko. Mukhang hindi niya nagustuhan ang nangyari. Parang nakita ko sa mga mata niya ang pagtataka, baka may halong selos pa nga.Siguro nagulat siya sa itsura ko. O baka sa kasama ko. Hindi ko alam, pero masarap sa pakiramdam na makita siyang naguguluhan. Sa wakas, kahit papano, naranasan din niya ang sakit na naramdaman ko noong nakita ko siyang kasama si Jocelle."Let's go, Kaeon. Let's enjoy this night," sabi ko habang nakangiti nang pilyo, sabay kapit sa braso niya. Tumingin ako kay Kaz at binigyan siya ng mabilis n
Lost in the Maze: Elias de Marcel Kabanata 33
KABANATA 33 Atasha's POV A week had passed and everything goes smoothly. Elias hasn't visited me at my restaurant after our conversation that day. I'm just thankful that I won't have a hard time avoiding him. I admit, even if I don't realize it myself, there's still some love left for him. Even though we've been apart for almost a month and a half, I still can't easily forget the long time we spent together. It really isn't easy because he's the only man I've ever loved. But I know I really need to forget everything because I know I've already lost. Ever since I found out that Jocelle is pregnant, I knew that I no longer have a fighting chance. As usual, my daily routine involves going to work and immersing myself in tasks to distract from the emotional turmoil within. Each passing day, the weight of reality grows heavier on my shoulders, reminding me of the irreversible changes in my life. Despite sticking to my routine, it no longer brings comfort, as thoughts of what co
