HEIJI'S POV “I CAN’T BELIEVE everyone knows about what I feel." A short mocking laugh escaped my lips. "I really thought I was hiding it well." "Only a blind person wouldn't know… and someone who's thick like Rebecca." Judiel chortled. Mirajane softly hit him. "Rebecca must have felt it, but she's not the one who assumes things." "Don't you think it's time for you to fight for your feelings?" Ms. Leni asked, which stupefied me. Just thinking about admitting something I've hidden years ago was nerve-wracking. It also scares me while a lot of what ifs popped in my mind. "No one knows what the result will be. It can be good, it can be bad, but at least you had the courage to admit it. Rather than be forever miserable for not leaping." She added. “You know what Rebecca’s motto is?” Mirajane suddenly asked. Judiel and Ms. Leni smiled. “I’m guessing you both know what it is.” I suspiciously glanced at them. Ms. Leni proudly said. “Of course, I’m her teacher!” “Of course, I’m her b
HOME (REBECCA’S POV) RIGHT AFTER FINISHING our dinner, Ms. Leni immediately asked us to go home. Judiel drove us back to school where we all separated, but for some reason, they asked Heiji to take me home. I have my car with me but they insisted that I should go with Heiji. I find it weird, but I am also cool with it. Anyway, I’m already exhausted from assisting the director with the scenes… aside from our road trip drama. “You really don’t need to get out of your car, you know.” I said in a giggle while staring at Heiji who was escorting me towards the gate of my house. He smiled. “Well, Judiel and Mirajane asked me to make sure you are safe. I’m just fulfilling that promise.” “Isn’t that assuring?” I teased before unlocking the gate. “I…” I turned my head at him after noticing that he paused for a while. I pulled out my arm from the gate with the lock in my hand. “You what?” He let out a nervous laugh and rubbed his nape. “It’s nothing.” I gave him a teasing look and crosse
Mira’s POV (PAST MEMORY)I SNEERED AT IBARRA and looked at him displeased. Never in my life that I have thought he’d ask me to see him. Ibarra knew how much I dislike him for being such a douche, and I am well aware that Ibarra wouldn’t all of the sudden ask me to meet him – in private – just for nothing.I crossed my arms in front of my chest and lifted my chin as I stared down at him who was sitting on the couch inside his ‘lair’.“What do you want?” I asked as if I was some kind of a gangster.One side of his lips curled upward before leaning comfortably on the chair. “Mind sitting?”I huffed and even rolled my eyes in irritation, yet I found myself sitting in front of him. “Happy?”His smile extended a bit more and I must admit that this simple gesture of his could knock Rebecca out. I’m not usually fond seeing boys smirking like that but I cannot deny that it looks good on him.He totally looked like a playful, bad prince.Someone who is usually the main character of a book… but t
Mirajane’s POV (PRESENT TIMES) “WHAT’S GOTTEN INTO YOU?” Rebecca asked as soon as we entered her home. The filming ended earlier than expected and Judiel was a bit behind schedule to fetch me. I decided to wait for him at Rebecca’s home. “What do you mean?” I threw my bag on her couch before sitting on it. She stood up in front of me, giving me the ‘spill it’ look. “Why were you too engaged on pissing Ibarra?” I sniggered. “I’m not.” Rebecca let out a sarcastic laugh. “Of all the people who knows you, I know you the best. Stop acting as if there’s nothing wrong.” She’s right. There is something wrong. And I am being like this because… JUST THIS MORNING I WAS WALKING ALONG the school corridors while waiting for Rebecca. I got the urge to revisit all the spots in the school that I usually go to. And since it’s still early, there were just few people in the school. I brushed my fingertips on the cold walls of the classroom as I walk. I closed my eyes, filled my lungs with fresh
Rebecca’s POV “HMM… I THINK THERE’S something missing.” The director said while replaying the scene on the screen. “I can feel there is, but I can’t pinpoint it.” I leaned closer and asked him to replay it. I intently looked at the screen and immediately found the lapse. I asked them to replay it one last time and said ‘pause’ on the part that I have concerns with. “I think we can still improve this. And what happened at this moment is a bit different from what I remember.” “That’s what I noticed too.” Ibarra’s sudden comment startled me. I quickly stepped away from him since our distance was too close. I thought he wouldn’t visit the set today since he has a lot of things to do in the office. That’s the reason why Mirajane didn’t go with me today. She was confident that Ibarra and I wouldn’t cross path. Recently, she has become stricter whenever Ibarra is around. She wouldn’t even allow me to speak with him even if it’s about work. She would act as a middleman--- err, middle wom
Rebecca’s POVI TRIED THE BEST THAT I could not to make him feel that I am very much affected by his presence. When he sat beside me, his scent immediately enthralled my nose and I literally had to stop myself from closing my eyes as I whiff his masculine aroma.No, Rebecca! You’ve been with him for the past few days. What’s the difference now?!Yes! Why am I so affected by him today? Was it because we shared a water bottle? Was it because of the tingling sensation I felt when I saw his playful grin? Or was it because…?“So, what are you waiting for?” His voice woke me up from overthinking.I simpered as I stood up and faced him.“That’s not how you looked at me before.” He complained while staring at my frowned face. It ticks me off how he was obviously trying not to laugh at me.I gritted my teeth but did my best to give him the sweetest smile. “Better?”He beamed. “Better.”As soon as I turned my back on him, I frowned again and walked away – giving us at least a meter distance bet
Rebecca’s POV (PRESENT TIMES) “I LOVE YOU…” I unconsciously uttered in a shaky breath. Ibarra was lovingly gazing at me with both of his hands pinned on my sides. Just like what I did years ago… and just as close as we were that day. Tears started swelling in my eyes as soon as my love for him burst inside me once more. I thought I had these feelings buried deep down. I thought that I would never ever feel this way again. Then why?! No matter how many times I ask myself that, I cannot fathom the reason why this silly heart of mine kept this affection for this guy who did nothing but hurt me. I must really be crazy and stupid for falling for him. If only I didn’t hear these people around us clapping and cheering, I wouldn’t wake up from the momentarily weakness that came over me. I sniffled before pushing Ibarra away and lowkey wiped away the tears that were on the verge of falling. “This! This is what I’ve been looking for guys!” Director Jan exclaimed while excitedly clapping. “
Rebecca’s POV (A FEW DAYS LATER) IT’S BEEN A WHILE SINCE my last interaction with Ibarra. Any attempts of him reaching out to me was immediately blocked by Mirajane, Judiel or… Heiji. Yes, he’s been a bit active in my life recently. He’s been overly attentive to me and I find it… weird, but definitely cute. It was adorable to see this new side of him and to be honest, I am enjoying his company. He takes away the worry off my mind. Heiji is like my calming pill. “I thought you’re coming over with Jud?” I asked Mirajane as I sat down on my sofa. It was Saturday night, and we were planning to do N*****x and chill. I readied everything. Popcorn, beer and even cleaned and designed the house to make it look cozy. Well, I made a bit of an effort knowing that Heiji’s also coming. Don’t get me wrong. I just wanted to make my house look… presentable. There’s nothing wrong with that, right? “Sis, Jud suddenly got sick. He has to rest and I have to stay with him. Besides, we don’t want to s
REBECCA’S POV (THE PRESENT TIMES)“I never knew your life was this complicated.” Nikki poured me another glass of wine.“And I never knew they could hide something like this from me.” I bitterly mumbled as I took a sip from my glass.It’s been three days since my confrontation with Ibarra, Mira and Judiel. I’m still baffled as to why they must keep secrets from me. I’ve been tumbling over it – trying to figure out the reason but I’ve been hitting the same damn end. Am I not reliable? Do they think I cannot really control my feelings?Was I that stupid?“Could be.”My eyes flew at Bianca who was staring at me. Did my thoughts just leak out from my mouth? I squinted my eyes at her.“I mean… Didn’t they say that even the brightest man becomes a fool in terms of love?”I simpered before taking another sip. “Mind to elaborate?”Mind to elaborate. Hah!Funny how a famous romance writer faces dilemma understanding the truth behind this loophole.“Hope you don’t take this negatively, Rebecca.”
“CHU…” IBARRA REMOVED THE WOMAN’S grip from his uniform and pushed her lightly. He was giving me this ‘pleading’ look as if he was asking me not to think of something weird.I mean, should I?But they’re undeniably close! She even knows Carlie and if you didn’t arrive, maybe she successfully undressed Ibarra!I shook my head to clear these thoughts and worries that was starting to eat me.“Chu?” The woman crossed her arms on her chest and gave me a scrutinizing look. “Is she the one?”Wow.I never felt so belittled with just a mere look. Mitchell used to give me this kind of stare, but it wasn’t that powerful than this. Her cat shaped eyes made it more menacing. The way she also stood there gives this ‘I own this place’ vibe.“Instead of you being here, why don’t you head to the mansion and meet Dad? You are not even allowed here.”She chuckled dryly. “Evading my question, huh? Well, you no longer need to say anything cause I already know the answer. Anyway…” She patted his head and g
THE PAST.Rebecca’s POV.“HAVE YOU HEARD?”I looked down as I slowly walk through the corridor. I already knew that they’ll be talking about me. The way that they threw glances at me, their pretend “whisper” that could be heard within a mile… it was obvious that I was – and again the center of the gossip world.Well, it’s been like this for a while now, ever since we’ve returned home from our Recollection.One of Mitchell’s old minions saw me and the girls coming out from the boys’ room the morning we accidentally slept there. And yes, she did saw the whole gang but never mentioned anyone other than me. That witch girl spurted out that I deliberately sneaked into the room and slept with Ibarra, and that news ran like a wildfire.This issue immediately caught the attention of the teachers and of course, we were called to the principal’s office to explain what happened.*** Flashback ***“Is this true? Rumors has been circling around the school that you…” Ms. Leni’s eyes fixated on me. “
Rebecca’s POV “I WANT YOU…” Without any delay, he passionately kissed me again. Filled with longing, exhilaration, and warmth. I parted my legs and wrapped them around his waist that made him groan. My mind went blank when I felt something there. All my sanity just left my body, and I was ready to give everything to Ibarra at this point. But… “Oh my God!” A frustrated moan escaped my lips as we turned our heads where the squeal came from. Dammit! “Rebecca!” Oh, God! When will these people learn not to appear out of the blue?! “What is the meaning of this?!” Judiel bellowed which forced me to loosen my frivolous clutches on Ibarra. Ibarra covered me with the blanket and slowly stood up beside the bed. Seeing his almost naked body right now confirmed the way I imagined him to be as I traced his toned body earlier. And when my eyes flew down the bulge that has been calling my attention, I ended up swallowing the air blocking my throat and bit my lips upon remembering the feelin
THE PRESENT (Rebecca’s POV)“REBECCA! HEY! WAKE up!” I felt someone shook my shoulder before hearing giggles. “It’s time to go home, stupid girl!”“Pfft! Let’s leave her here.” I heard Mirajane jokingly uttered that made me open my eyes. I had a glimpse of the girls and their men beside them.“Ughhh.” I grunted and shut my eyes again since my world went spinning. I muttered something that even I did not understand.I heard Hera cackled. “Oh god! It’s been a long time since I drank like this.”“And you shouldn’t do it in public. You do know that you are a well-known model, babe.”Jeremy…I tried to peek by squinting my left eye but instead of seeing Jeremy, Ibarra’s flushed, yet worried face greeted me.“Chu, wake up.” He softly whispered and caressed my back.His endearment to me sent tickles to my heart. I ended up giggling as I buried my face back on my arm that was lying on the top of the table.“That one’s also wasted. Take her home, Ibarra.” I heard Ginny said. “I’ll take care of
THE PAST (Ibarra’s POV) A SMILE FORMED on my lips when Rebecca nodded eagerly. Oh, you have no idea what I’m about to say, Chu. “Pfft! I bet this story will be boring. Just like you.” Judiel mocked and laid on his back. “Shut up, Judiel!” Rebecca hissed and even rolled her eyes. “Learning history is fun!” “So, are you going to tell us or what?” Ginny asked who also appeared to be interested about it. “I’d appreciate it if no one longer interrupts me.” I said and stared at Heiji. He narrowed his eyes. “Did I say anything?” I smirked and nodded. “Great! So…” A loud, exaggerated snore echoed the room. “Judiel!” Everyone clamored and Mira even hit him with a pillow. Judiel grunted before sitting upright. “Fine! I’ll listen!” I sighed and started again. “Before World War Two, this place was used as an orphanage. Parents who cannot take care of their child used to leave their newborn in front of the door and nuns would take them in. The institution was handled by a well-known pr
THE RECOLLECTION NIGHT (Rebecca’s POV) “WHAT THE HELL?” Mirajane immediately covered Judiel’s mouth and motioned him to stop. “Shut it!” Hera pushed the door wider, and we giggled as we made our way inside the boys’ room. My eyes glistened as soon as I saw Ibarra looking at us bewildered. He was cooly sitting on his bed with a book on his hand. “Mind explaining what you girls are doing here?” Jeremy stood up and blocked us from walking further inside the room. My lips pouted in dismay as I glanced at our class president. Just a few steps past him and I would reach where Ibarra was. Almost! “Oh, come on, Remy! Just chill. We made sure that we were not followed by any student teacher on our way here.” Hera reasoned out that apparently displeased Jeremy. “First of all, don’t call me Remy. No one calls me that. Second, that wasn’t my point. You do understand that you just entered a lair filled with men… yes?” “Men?” Hera chortled. “Really? You’re just a bunch of boys. Men stays up
Ibarra’s POV MY FACE IMMEDIATELY turned red when I saw Rebecca’s face that peaked from the door. Her eyes flew at me and all I could do was to look away. My hand embarrassingly covered my face like a shy high school kid. Shit… It didn’t occur to me that I have this abashed personality. I’ve been into more embarrassing situation than what happen earlier but the effect of that was incomparable with any of it. “What are you two doing here?” I heard Judiel asked and I threw a glance at him. His brows were furrowed – indication that he’s displeased that they arrived. I was about to react when Hera extended her arm and playfully hit him. I was sitting in between them. “It wasn’t their fault. I called them but I was unaware that you guys are here. It was supposed to be a girls night out, you know.” She motioned them to sit. “What’s wrong with us all being together anyway?” I was anticipating Rebecca walking towards me, but that excitement was destroyed when Heiji held her hand to stop
REBECCA’S HOUSE (Rebecca’s POV) “I AM TELLING YOU! That wasn’t supposed to happen!” I was staring intently at Mirajane with wide eyes hoping she could see the truth in it. We just came home and that stupid Judiel asked his girl to guard me. Yeah, I’m a prisoner - AGAIN! Mirajane squinted her eyes at me. “I’m not really sure if you are just stupid or guilty.” I gave her a confused look. “Guilty? About what?’ “Idiot! I know you didn’t plan that to happen, but you seem to enjoy the feeling of Ibarra being obviously embarrassed about that.” “Ugh!” I rolled my eyes. Fine! I did enjoy it! Seeing that egoistic CEO bashful face gives me a weird satisfaction. “What? Did you honestly think I’ll miss that glimmer in your eyes you saw him turned into a tomato?” “Okay! Yes! You got me! But why did you let those thugs take him away?” She simpered. “Nice choice of word. They are indeed going to beat the crap out of him.” I looked at her perturbed. “You’re kidding… right?” “They are going