EPILOGUE

Epilogue 

(RAGE’S)

“So, when are you coming back? You just turned down a movie with Rachel Park. People are expecting the both of you to work together.” My friend, Carlos. I’m gonna miss that Latin accent of his. 

“I’m just staying in the Philippines for a couple of months, I need to shoot something there,” I said, actually it’s another movie as well, but for now it’s a secret. 

“Where is your brother?” He asked.

“Oh, Achi, he left first. Then I just follow through.” I said.

“So, this house is gonna be empty?” He asked. I looked at him, knowing that he’s gonna bring girls here and party a lot. 

“Fine, I am not gonna borrow your house.” He said. I continue packing my things. 

“So, you're gonna find your girlfriend there?” He asked. I stopped packing my things and thought about what he said. 

“Well, I am not sure though. But who knows!” I replied. I haven’t thought about it… 

“Well, I’m going now. I have surgery to perform this afternoon, take care and call me. ‘Kay, bye.” After he left, I’m still thinking about what he said. Should I visit her in their province? Gray's men keep sending me an update not totally though, but a pic of how she is. It’s been six shocks, seven years already? I was so shocked after I counted the years that I’m not in the Philippines.  

I took the last photo Gray’s men sent, it’s been six months since he sent me a photo of Lexia.

Looks like she’s doing well in life, having a career in her small town without remembering someone is still in love with her. 

I took a deep breath and closed the envelope.

I jump in my seat when my phone rings. It’s Jen. 

“Sup?” I answer the phone in my line.

“So, when is your arrival? I’m with Achi now. Looks like he’s loving the UP now. I’m touring him here.” Jen said, I told her to accompany Achi to choose his school, he is the one who wanted to go home. 

“You know what, he’s gotten tall na talaga ano.” Jen said. 

“Anyway, I’m expecting I’ll be in Manila after 13 hours, it’s either you or maybe Gray the one who fetches me,” I said, though I haven’t talked to Gray after he left us in the airport. Meaning we didn’t keep in touch for 7 years. 

“Oh, you didn’t hear? Gray left and went abroad following his family business. He's gonna inherit it, by the way, Ali is so heartbroken nga ei.” Jen shared.

“Really? Tell me more.” I asked. I sat down for a while to listen to her. Jen and I always talk on the phone if I am not that busy. 

“Yeah, it’s been five years now. What’s shocking is he got Ali pregnant without him knowing.” My jaw dropped hearing that!

“What the effing gun, is Ali fine? Ang gandang bungad ng tsismis mo.” Bigla ako napa tagalog sa narinig, iba talaga ang nagagawa ng tsismis.

“Where is he?” I still want to hear more. 

“Well, the last time I checked his I* I think he is in Italy. Basta paiba-iba siya ng lugar ei, he really turned out like his father, a king maker.” Jen said.

“Where’s Ali?” I asked. I’m curious about her too.

“Well, she is now a successful designer. Raising her five-year-old son.” Oh, looks like Gray is gonna have a mini-me.

“How’s Kevin?” I asked, I remember that moron.

“Well, he’s now an Engineer like he dreamed of.” Jen. 

Jen hung up the phone after telling some story, and a lot of things change when I come back home for sure. 

The worst part is I have to see my father again! In fairness to him, he never called me for the past seven years, just to annoy me and ask me anything. But can’t admit the fact of how he is? Is he still doing bad or good? How’s his health? 

I’ve been overthinking again... 

I finished everything and went to the bathroom to change and leave. 

—-

After the stewardess gave me food, I didn’t touch it for a while. I choose to listen to music first, besides I am not that hungry. I looked out my window and saw the beauty of the sky. That's the most exciting part of traveling for me. Watch how the wonderful sky is! 

I just want to ignore the passenger who keeps throwing paper folded at me. 

I knew it was just some kid that spoils their parents. That is why they do not have any manners. Why the hell do I choose business class again? I could afford a first-class trip! 

I close my eyes so I wouldn’t hurt whoever that kid is…

But then, he threw a magazine book right in my face!!! Gosh, it slapped my nose and it freaking hurt. 

I open my eyes to see who that is, I am expecting to see a kid in front of me laughing his ass off. Yet, it’s Gray smiling the shit out of him! 

“What the??? Why are you here?” I asked, I know it’s been a long time. 

“Going back to PH, though. Anyway, where are you going? Another tape abroad?” He asked after he calmed himself laughing. I rolled my eyes at him, I don’t wanna talk to him right now. I looked everywhere to find the kid who kept annoying me, but only I found a gentleman in a suit and a few businesswomen. That’s where I look back to Gray, the hell it’s him. He’s the one playing like a kid. Urghh!!! 

“You do that?” I asked him, pointing to the magazine on the floor. 

He closed his mouth to stop laughing again. 

I am looking at him, then suddenly remember what Jen told me. This MF! Have a son with Ali and he didn’t know, Gray looked at me weirdly. 

“The f*ck you mad?” He asked, that’s where I get my senses back...

“No, just hungry.” I looked away, baka mamaya may mabanggit pa ako. 

“Dang! You got a brawny physique dude..” He said, looking at my body. 

“You’re molesting me, do you?” I said, the two of us looked at the stewardess who passed by, then suddenly she slipped and fell. She stepped on the magazine Gray threw at me. Gray just sits in the left corner while I am in the right corner, facing each other. 

“Miss, you okay?” Gray helped him. I’m just too lazy to become a gentleman, but for sure Gray is gonna bang that stewardess. 

“Come on, let me help you with that.” Gray helps her, and he smiles at me like a fuckers. I knew it, he will bang her! 

I continued eating though! 

I fell asleep. I looked at Gray’s side and he is sleeping too. I don’t know when he came back a while ago, but I don’t mind. I look outside the window and the moon is now shining.

My food’s dinner is already at my table, I’m glad the stewardess read my note. 

“Don’t disturb me, I’m sleeping. Put the food on the table!” 

—--

“Wake up, superstar we’re about to land.” It’s Gray kicking my seat. 

“Damn you,” I said. He didn’t respond. 

Since my mind is still not waking, all I hear is the Captain’s announcement about our landing. 

When I saw everyone start to stand and get their items of luggage, I saw Gray talking to someone on his phone but I stood na din. 

When I stepped out of the plane, to my shocking face the media showed up, and with my beloved Father. I closed my eyes and tried to calm myself, gosh he was doing it again, his freaking show! 

I walk towards him, the camera flashes on us while he welcomes me and hugs me in front of those clowns.

"Sir Suarez, how's your feeling po that Rage has already come home. There you are fetching him." The Reporter asked. As usual, I have to give them a free smile.

"Well, it's been a while now, he and I always see each other on-screen, what they call it in the application on the phone that you can see each other." My Dad asked, clueless. Some reporters laugh, knowing that the Congressman is not used to this modern tech.

"It's a skype sir." The guy reporter said.

"Yeah, that thing. You know this generation is not for me, anyway I am glad that this mini-me of mine is home and safe. Thank you so much for coming, everyone." He said and waved to those reporters he hired. 

When the two of us were finally alone in the car, not to mention that this old man was driving the car for me. Where the hell is the driver?

"Where is your driver?" I asked, curiously. 

Besides, we do not have any bodyguards following us.

"Nah, I fired them all. Only Manang and the Gardener I allowed to stay, last year was my last term in Congress so I decided to get rid of those bodyguards. Again, you always escaped right?" He explained.

"What? You're trying to lock me up again?" I asked.

"You are always funny, son!" He says. 'Funny' my shit! 

I looked at him, and I could see that something had changed in him. Though he became a more old-looking man, my feelings wanted to say something that I can't figure out. Then I remembered he never drove me everywhere I went. Even on our family day we always had a driver and bodyguards and freaking media. That's why I always feel my life is just a show. 

"What?" He asked, maybe he felt that I'm looking at him for too long! 

I didn't say anything and was quiet, I just closed my eyes and tried to sleep but I couldn't. 

I choose to look at the surroundings here in Manila. Some things didn't change, some restaurants and parks I knew are gone. Maybe that's me, parts of me change but there remains one thing that cannot be changed anymore. 

I leaned my head on the car window while seeing some places we passed by, I saw some buildings that were still in construction. Luckily, I have a chance to see Engr. Lavin by accident, gosh, he's so much different now. He's wearing a hard hat while holding a blueprint and talking to some old foreman. 

Not until I sleep!

______

"Wake up, son! We're home." I felt my Dad's hands tapping my shoulder when I opened my eyes, were already here in front of his Mansion.

"Didn't I tell you that you must have dropped me in my condo?" I asked.

"No, you didn't say anything. Besides, we're already here and I drive you so, wake up." He just left me hanging here, I sighed and came out of his car. 

"Sir, mabuti po at nakauwe kayo ng ligtas!" Manang greeted me, I smiled at her and handed my light suitcase.

"Salamat po Manang, natutuwa po akong makita uli kayo." I said to her politely. I carried some of my luggage. 

When I came into my Dad's Mansion, I saw some changes. They change the interior, they make it more modern.

"Kailan nila pinalitan 'to?" I asked while looking around the house. 

"Matagal na ho, may tatlong taon na po ngayon." Manang answered that some of his old stuff is still there. Even Mom's favorite vases, but still it is always one thing that gives me a vibe. Emptiness! 

I went upstairs with Manang holding some of my stuff. I followed Manang till we reached my room. 

When Manang opened it, she came inside first. I looked at how it's still the same. 

"Hindi po ito pinabuksan ni Sir, mula noong umalis po kayo. Pinabago niya po lahat dito sa bahay pero hindi niya po ito pinabuksan." Manang said, after she lay down all my thing she carried. 

"Salamat po, bababa na lang po ako if may kailangan ako. Hindi niyo na po ako kailangan puntahan dito." I said. After she left my room, I don't know what to feel but I kinda admit it, I'm home! Like, finally I'm home...

Some of our family photos are still hanging on my wall! I ignored it, cause those moments will never be back. 

Three days after I came home to my Dad's mansion, all I did was rest. Now, I have to do a shoot for my cameo role and the next day we're about to start a shoot for my movie. 

I am fixing my things because I'm moving again, my penthouse is still there though. I asked my Manager to take care of my belongings here, he's handling other artists while I'm away. 

"Sir, pinapatawag na ho kayo ng Daddy ninyo para sabayan siya kumain." Magalang na tawag sakin ng bagong katulong.

"Pakisabi bababa na." Sagot ko, habang sinasara ang maleta ko.

Narinig kong umalis na siya kaya inasikaso ko na lang ang natitira kong gamit na ilalagay sa isa kong maleta na maliit. 

When I went downstairs to the kitchen dining, that's where I saw my Father reading a newspaper and wearing his glasses. I never knew he had to wear glasses now! 

I scanned his newly renovated kitchen, I saw his chef cooking, and I could see him through the glass wall between the kitchen and dining area.

"Why do you have to call your chef? We have Manang." I tried to complain to my Dad. He closed the newspaper he'd been reading, took off his glasses and looked at me. 

"Well, Manang is not staying here anymore, she only stays on Day and she's going home at night. We're both older now, and I'm allowing her to stay with her family." My Dad said, sipping his liquor. 

"Isn't her family in their province?" I said.

"Yes, I asked my men to pick up her family so they can settle here. I brought her land just near here in our area, para hindi na siya mahirapan kung umuwi siya. You are the only reason why I am not allowing her to resign." 

"What?" I was curious about his last words.

"I know, you thought of her as your Mom. Am I right?" He said. I shook my head, hearing him talk like that. 

Finally, dinner is here. His chef looked at me and greeted me. I did the same with respect. 

We were in the middle of eating silently, not until he asked something!

"So, when are you getting married?" He asked. I stopped chewing my beef steak and directly looked at him. 

"What do you want?" I asked back! 

"Nothing, just catching up on your lives." Thank god I just swallowed my food before my jaw dropped. 

"What's your game?" I said, knowing that he was starting to fool me again. 

"Don't make me repeat what I've just asked." He said, unbothered.

"Well, I'm not married and I don't have a plan!" I said, so he stopped. 

"Really? How about that girl who has amnesia? I heard Alfred last few years ago, about Jen's friend who had amnesia. But the plot twists the one that shocks me is that she is your girlfriend." I just stared at him blankly.

"Seriously? What now?" I said. Cause I don't like the way he sounds.

"I'm just asking about your life, isn't that hard to understand." He casually answered. 

"Nothing is hard to understand, but if it's come to you everything is f*cked. Did you hear that? Stop fooling me around." I shout this time, I feel worried about Lexia, cause he alarmed me. 

"Easy young man, I'm just asking a nice question." He said, I looked into his eyes. Trying to read it, but then I remember I never knew what type of person he is.

"Did you touch her?" I asked. Cause if he did touch Lexia. I swear, I could've killed him.

"No! Can you please calm down? I'm just asking a question making up a conversation between the two of us." He calmly said. I drink water just to feel at least relieved.

We both stay quiet for a while. I feel that he's just staring at me while I'm looking at my food puzzledly. 

"Did I scare you that much?" He asked, out of nowhere. That's when I looked back at him.

"What do you think?" I said heartlessly! 

He didn't say anything. I wanted to finish our dinner, but I lost my appetite. 

"Thanks for dinner, Dad! But I have to go." I said and left him. I choose not to look back... 

The next day, I woke up in my penthouse this time! When I opened my eyes, I remember the conversation I had with my father. I know it was not good, but I feel that he is a different person last night. The way he moved, I don't know it's just that, there is something different about him.

After my routine, I'm done in my bathroom. I went to the kitchen to have some coffee, I picked up my car keys, phone and wallet then left. 

In my shocking view I saw my father outside my penthouse the moment I opened the door.

“What now?” I asked.

“Nothin’ I just brought you a grocery package and new blankets and some upgraded appliances.” He said, and the way I saw everything he brought for me. He’s with some random people I didn’t know.

“What is this? Dad!” I asked, when I allowed them to come inside the penthouse. Dang, I’m about to leave. 

“You didn’t hear what I just said, I brought you new things. Is your car still working? You want a new one? How about Mercedes Benz? A Royce? Or a Tesla?” I am confused while he’s giving me options.

“Dad! What do you want?” I asked, annoyingly.

“Look Son, when you're gone I reflected everything that happened to our family. That’s where I realized how terrible a person I am, and I know you’ll definitely agree to that. You're my only son, you’ll carry my name. To make this convo short, me and you are not fond of having a deep conversation. I already ruined my image to you, but this time, just this time. Allowed me to- at least– taking care of you Rage!” To all of his speeches I hear, this is the first time I am clearly astonished but scared. I’m scared of the fact that he changed, ‘cause I’m not gonna know how I’m going to embrace his change. 

I didn’t say anything and immediately left my penthouse.

—-

While on my way to the location for my cameo role in a movie, I can’t stop thinking about what I’ve just heard. I never believed in my whole life that he could change! 

Without realizing I already reached the shooting location, my mind is still in a distress remembering what my Father said. I didn’t know that this would come after my arrival here in the Philippines. 

I already saw Direk Diaz, my former Manager he’s now a film director. He achieved his dream. But still handling other artists and making them star in his movies.

“Ang tagal natin hindi nagkita, ah!” Sinalubong niya ako at niyakap.

“Kumusta po?” I asked, I smiled a little bit to at least forget everything. 

“Mabuti, mabuti hijo. Kararating mo lang ba? Mukhang sasabak ka agad sa trabaho ah!” 

“Kailangan po ei.” I said.

Hindi na rin niya ako tinanong pa ng kung ano-ano at nag proceed na agad kami sa shoot, sa labas lang naman ng network namin ang shoot. Madali lang naman ang ganitong cameo role.

I saw my fans already here and waiting for me. I waved at them, then they started screaming wildly. I’m ready to do the scene we’re about to do.

Since it’s a public street we can see every vehicle that passes in front of us! All I smell for sure is that it is full of pollution. 

But then I saw Kevin’s car stopped in front of our network’s building. I looked at his side, he is just across the road. Looks like he is talking to some girl.

“Stand by, actors, we start in about ten minutes. The production is fixing some problems.” I heard the Assistant Director announce.

I’m still looking at Kevin’s side. But my heart and mind went blank, when I saw who he was talking with. 

“Lexia” I mouthed her name. She’s here! 

Bigla ako umalis sa pwesto namin upang puntahan si Kevin, to confirm if it’s really her. 

Nang malapit na ako sa tapat nila ay huminto ako, hindi dahil sa mga fans na maiingay kung hindi dahil bigla akong nanghina. 

Hindi ko alam kung ano ang sasabihin ko sa kanya. Kinakabahan ako na natatakot…

“Kevin.” I called him. Lexia and Lavin both looked at me, she’s so fresh. Still pretty.

“Let go of her.” I told Kevin, ‘cause I saw he’s touching her hands. Ngayon pa lang naiinis na ako, both of us courted her before. Baka kaya ganun na lang ang inis ko. 

“Rage! Let’s start.” I heard our Director shouted sa kabilang kalsada. 

“Coming!” I shouted back. I looked at her once more and turned my back to go back in the shoot. 

I did my two minute scene for the cameo, after that I hurriedly left the venue to look for Lexia. 

I tried to call Jen and asked what Kevin's number was. But I can’t reach Jen. Maybe she’s on shoot or something. 

I ended up going home. 

When I opened my door I saw Achi playing computer games. 

I caught his attention and he stopped playing.

“What’s up?” He asked. 

“Tired though.” I answered. 

“Well.” He gave me an eye look, I looked confused at the moment but I got what he actually meant. 

I went to my kitchen and that’s where I found my Father cooking.

“What the hell.” I yell. He is even wearing an apron. 

“There you are, come eat. I cooked your Mom’s recipe.” He sound so excited. 

“What are you doing?” I asked, nagbabadya na naman akong magalit sa kanya. 

“I’m cooking your dinner.” He answered.

“Just to tell you, I never eat dinner especially when I'm on a diet.” I told him. 

“Oh, then I throw this all out.” He said that in a low voice, then suddenly I felt guilty for what I acted in front of him. When in fact he deserved that but still here I am feeling accountable. 

“Ahm. I am not yet eating dinner Dad.” Achi said, maybe he feels sad about what he is seeing right now. He didn’t used to see this kind of drama ‘cause we moved away from my father for seven years. 

“Sure, come let’s eat.” Achi sat at the other side of the table facing my father. 

I left them and went straight to my room. Why the hell am I like this? I should’ve been mad at him, but why am I being soft with him?

I changed clothes and took a quick cold shower before going to bed. After half an hour doing my self care in the bathroom, I straight away heard a loud laugh noise outside. 

I open my door in half to see what my Father and Achi are doing. They are both laughing while watching television, while my Dad is saying something. I leave them and sleep. 

—-

“You are having tons of interviews today, radio interviews, presscon for your welcome back, you also have a guest appearance for today’s noon time show, then you need to attend a late night show, in other words you are fully booked today.” Direk Teng telling me my schedule for today, siya na lang din ang pinag handle ko ng mga ganap ko rito para naman hindi na ako mag hire ng bago dahil panibagong pakikipagkilala na din yun pag nagkataon. 

“Can I skip it?” I said lazily. 

“No, not allowed.” He said back. I looked at him but he didn’t do anything. 

“I am not your fan girl, stop looking at me like that.” He said and chuckled. Tumayo na ako para inumin yung kape na pinaorder ko. 

“Where’s Mrs. Cruz?” I asked. 

“Nasa meeting umuna na muna daw tayo bukas ka na lang niya kikitain.” I didn’t say anything, as if I still have a word for that. 

I yawn while we’re on elevator design for celebrities only. Just because I am still sleepy.

“Didn’t have enough sleep.” Direk Teng asked. I ignore him, it's just that I don’t really have energy today. 

All I knew was I’m busy and that’s it, we proceed to follow all of my schedule today. 

After the presscon my staff that Direk Teng handle were back in the network for the noon time show, which Jen is the main host. 

“Eat your lunch first.” Direk Teng gave me my food, I’m in my dressing room right now and doing nothing. I looked at my food thinking it’s burger or pasta and fried chicken instead of full of vegetable diet food. 

Since I don’t like the food at all, I sneak out to buy my own food. Why the hell I’m craving right now? 

While walking silently in the hallway, I saw someone talking to her phone. I can’t see who she is properly due to the shades I’m wearing.

“Babe-” She said, but one thing that got me from looking at her directly is that, that voice is familiar. Simply because I know that voice, it’s the voice of women I love. I looked at her immediately and stopped walking, she’s just a few inches away from me. From that moment I wanted to punch that guy she was talking to. 

Lumapit pa ako para mas marinig ko ang mga sinasabi ni Lexia. 

“Aww, may sakit ang babe ko? Aww, sana anjan ako para alagaan ka.” She said in a low pitch voice, since hindi naman naka loudspeaker ang telepono niya ay hindi ko marinig ang sinasabi ng kausap nito. Unti-unti akong nanlulumo she have boyfriend? 

Patuloy ako sa pakikinig sa kanila hanggang sa ako na mismo ang naririndi. Nakatitig lang ako sa kanya hanggang sa matapos siya sa pakikipag usap sa lalaking yun! 

“May kailangan ka?--” She asked, but I didn’t let her finish her sentence and kissed her immediately. I may sound selfish but I don’t want her to be with another guy, I suffered losing her and for sure she didn’t know me at all but she’s mine!

When she pushed me away, I thought she was gonna slap me. I saw that she wanted to say something but I heard Direk Teng's voice. Nakita ko ang takot sa mukha niya, maybe she’s scared to lose her job. Bigla akong natauhan sa ginawa ko, alam kong mali yun. Mali din ang iniisip ko na angkinin siya dahil lang may kausap siyang iba, she have the freedom to choose who she want to be with. I’m so reckless nagpadala ako sa selos! 

“Rage, and who’s this girl?” Direk asked, hindi ako naka sagot agad. Ayokong sa ganitong paraan ako makilala ni Lexia, isa pa baka mag iba ang tingin niya sa akin lalo na at mukhang masama na agad ang pinakita ko. 

Lexia answered every question that Direk Teng asked, nag iisip naman ako ng pwedeng iexcuse sa kanya. I still know him. 

“Just leave her alone, I can fix this besides I am the one who kissed her. Don’t do something to her. Please!” My voice sounds begging, I move in front of Lexia to block her from Direk Teng’s view. 

“What’s the commotion here?” *shit* I murmured. I looked at her with amusement, she’s more beautiful now. 

“Jen.” I called her name. 

“Long time no see Rage, nagkita din tayo.” She smiled at me so sweetly, I watched her move and it looked like she wanted a hug. I moved to the side so she knew that Lexia is here, that’s where I see her expression change.

“Le–”

“She doesn’t know us.” I cut her words. Like what I said ayokong sa ganitong paraan kami makilala ni Lexia. 

We moved on from this scene and proceeded to our work. My make-up artist and hairstylist are now busy doing their job for me.

After nila ako ayusan tinawag na ako ng floor direktor to stand by. Pero dahil mainipin ako ay sinundan ko si Lexia na kakalabas lang sa audio booth kung nasaan si Direk Concio.

Nung una tinanong ko siya kung saan siya kakain pero hindi niya ako sinagot. 

“Sir sorry pero hindi kita type.” That made me smirked after I heard that. Nauna na siya but here I am smiling like an idiot. 

Bumalik lang ako sa katinuan ng makita kong wala na siya at malayo na sa akin, tumakbo naman ako para sundan siya. 

She complained that why am I like this, I acted as if we’re close. I looked at her and said, “Sorry darling, pero kilang kilala kita.” I said wholeheartedly. 

—-

For the past week doing my thing as an actor, kahit na wala akong tape or show sa network. I still sending Lexia, food or snack sometimes drink with letter on it, kung ano anong kind of cheesy thing na lang ang sinasabi ko para kahit papaano ay marecognize niya ako. 

We also had a moment in the comfort room. Well it’s just random but at least I told her what I feel. Also, Jen and Ali held a reunion dinner and they decided to introduce themselves to Lexia, since for them it’s time to meet her. Knowing that after that dinner we had to rush her to the hospital, dahil bigla na lang siya nag collapsed. 

I’m taking care of her in the hospital but Achi called me to announce that my freaking father na nung isang linggo lang ay nagbibitaw ng sweet messages sa amin, ay inaresto diba? It proves that we never know who we trust. Aside from that before I left in that hospital I saw her giving a chance to Kevin. 

“Gray, are you listening?” I ask him. I told him to investigate what is happening if my father is really involved in this. Though, I’m giving him a doubt already but there's something going on!

“I’m thinking.” That's what he said. I sat down and calmed myself after hearing that. Achi is already in my penthouse as of this moment. 

“What’s the case again?” He asked, I gave him the news na kanina ko pa binabasa. He read it. 

“I knew that guy, but I still need to check on it. One thing I assured you, your father is being framed. Well, at least you have an answer now. Give me three days.” He said and stood up, maybe about to leave but I stopped him. 

“How do you say so?” I asked, ‘cause he’s giving me a puzzle now. 

“Let me check it first okay, then I’ll call you.” He said and left. I looked at the news being flashed to the tablet I showed to Grayson. ‘What actually you’re doing Dad’? I asked myself.

Hindi ako nakakatulog ilang araw na I can’t even go to his mansion, dahil pinagbawalan muna ako ng management. They are the one handling all the news right now.

Nandito ako sa hideout kung saan kami nagkita ni Gray, pinayo niya sa akin na dito muna ako pansamantala. Pero hindi pwede kailangan ko malaman lahat! Besides, everything is connected to my past. 

I can’t wait for Gray, though he is already an expert now in this path. But I need to move too! 

I drove my car and left this place. I’m thinking of visiting him in the mansion, I just want to make sure if he’s alright. Wala naman masama kung aalamin ko ang kalagayan niya diba? Bilang anak niya. 

But something is off, a car is chasing me. I try to change routes to see if they are after me. Yet, they are still behind my car. I even change my speed pero hinahabol pa rin nila ako. Hindi masyado traffic ngayon sa kalsada, kaya naman ang lawak ng takbuhan namin sa isa’t isa. I can’t see who they are bukod sa gabi na ay tinted pa ang sasakyan nila, tinted din ang sasakyan ko pero mukhang alam nila kung sino ako. 

Some police are now after us too, dahil panigurado ako ay over speed limit kami. Nadaanan ko na ang street ng village kung nasaan ang mansion ni Dad, that’s why this time I drive as fast as I can. 

I tried to call Gray but he didn’t answer. I’m now outside my Dad mansion and all I can see is a lot of police officers being armed. 

“Dang! this is what house arrest looks like?” I tell myself. I spotted some reporters too. Kaya mas lalong hindi nila ako pwede makita. 

Dahan dahan sana akong lalapit sa mansion, nang biglang may narinig akong gun shot not just me pero lahat ay naalarma. I looked everywhere to see what was going on. Not until, I saw someone running hindi kalayuan sa kinatatayuan ko. He’s wearing all black clothes and he's holding something! He looks suspicious.

I try to chase him, pero isang van ang sumundo sa kanya. I was about to get in my car and follow them. But someone grabbed my arm, that’s when I knew that reporters were coming. 

“Shush!” It’s Gray. We’re hiding right now, but we still saw what’s happening. 

The pain I used to forget and buried is alive again. The rescue team is now carrying my Father’s body to move in an ambulance. 

“Dad, no!---” I uttered loudly, I want to run to him and see if he’s still breathing. 

“No, no, no,” Gray stopped me. All I knew was we attracted a few reporters because I shouted. 

“Shh—- shh— shhh—” Gray tried to calm me down. IOnce in my life I never imagined that I’m gonna sob in some men's arms, but here I am crying to Grayson. 

“Let’s get out of here, first.” He said and helped me stand, ‘cause I couldn’t. 

—-

“Who are they?” I asked Gray, this time I want answers. 

“I’m still finding it.” He said, I stopped crying a little while ago. Nakahinto lang ang sasakyan niya dito sa isang bakanteng lote. 

“Don’t give a shit, Gray! Who are they?” I asked again. 

“Trust me this time dud—-” I didn’t allow him to continue and punch him straight away. 

“I’m trying to protect you at least.” I smirked and punched him again! 

“Stop bullshitting me and tell me!” I said with anger and grieve. 

“It’s Tito Alfred!” He said. I stop my fist from landing on his face. 

“What?” I said in shock.

“Wanna listen?” He sat down and wiped his face, there was some drop of blood due to my punch.

“Speak!” I command when he stood up. He opened his car trunk and he took some drinks there. I’m just watching his moves until he finishes the drink he gets. 

“Like what I said, I’m still searching—”

“SPEAK!” I shouted at him. 

“Well, it turns out that the guy we knew is a snake. Everything your Dad worked hard for Tito Alfred ruined it. Your Dad has wonderful achievements from the time when he was Mayor in Batangas. However, Tito Alfred at that time was a leader of the Alfonso Gang. Your mother published news about that gang before, the reason why the media knew about the notorious group. Dahil dun maraming beses na bulilyaso ang mga inaangkat nilang iba’t ibang drugs, lalo na at kaagapay ng Mom mo noon ang ilang mga autoridad. Isa lang ang gusto ng mga Pulitiko noon ang mahuli ang leader ng Alfonso Gang, para na rin pagandahin ang imahe nila sa publiko. That may be the reason why your father courted your Mom. After all, he is still a politician. Nahinto lang ang kaso dahil sa sunod sunod na pagkamatay ng ilang officials. That time your parents were already married and it was about having you! Ilang years nanahimik noon ang Alfonso Gang, hindi pa rin nahuhuli ang leader. Until Tito Alfred decided to enter politics, then their recent activity–” He stopped. 

“Please Gray, tell me everything.” He looked at me and sighed.

“Their recent activity when they framed your Father. Actually, your Dad caught them exchanging drug operations but Tito wants to call the police but Tito Alfred is the evil one here, especially since he knows that your Dad is about to run for the presidency election. So they knocked him down, kaya ang nangyari, the Police mistakenly thought that your father is the one doing this drug operation thing. Lahat ng ebidensya na magpapatunay na inosente ang tatay mo ay kinuha nila. And tonight maybe they are the ones behind this.” 

I couldn’t breathe through everything I heard, it’s hard to swallow the truth. 

“You said, my Mom is the one who started the series when she worked as anchor?” I asked, I’m still functioning. 

“Maybe.” -Gray.

“Then they killed my mom.” I said, and stood up. 

I drove his car, mukhang alam ni Gray ang gusto kong mangyari kaya hinayaan niya ako. 

—--

I woke up feeling the heat of the sunrise hitting my face. When I looked at my phone, several calls from my management and my relative called me. I even saw Tito Alfred’s text. After seeing his text I threw my phone in the wall to smash it! 

“Marami kang atraso sakin.” He even has a picture here in my penthouse! 

My Father is dead on arrival and my relatives are caring about his funeral. 

I don’t know what time it is already. But I did come to the place where they’re about to hold the vigil.

That’s where I saw Lexia, it’s been a while since the last time I saw her. I watched what her doing and halos lahat ng iniisip ko gumaan kahit papaano. Pero hindi pa rin ako nakatiis at ginusto ko pa rin siyang makita. 

“Thank you, that means a lot to me.” I said, after she gave me a warm hug. 

“What’s your plan?” She asked.

“Find the murderer and the suspect.” I answered, though I already knew who they were. 

We talk for a minute and give her a hint that everything is framed up. After that I left. 

I am watching Tito Alfred, keep saying shit about the press. 

“The Suarez clan is my closest friend not just in Politics but in my real life as well, I can’t believe as well that he actually has to end like this. The reason why I’m here is because he was my friend, even on his final day I am still his friend.” He said and left the media. 

I received a text message from Officer De Castro that they want to meet me.  My whole life I stopped believing the authorities and officials because of my Father, I always thought that he is the evil one but he isn’t. Pakiramdam ko tuloy sobrang sama kong anak.

I texted them back. 

“Sir, mabuti naman po at naanyayahan namin kayo ngayon.” He said and greeted me. We both shake hands as respect to each other. 

Hindi kami nagkita sa police station kung hindi sa mansion, nag iimbestiga pa kasi sila rito. 

“Meron po kaming nakalap na isang video tape rito. Mukhang para po sa inyo ito.” He handed me a video tape. I play it in our video tape recorder, urgh, some of his things are really old school. 

When I played it, all I saw on the screen was my Father younger face. If I’m not mistaken he was wearing that mourning suit when my Mom died decades ago. 

Plus the quality of video is not HD. 

“Rage, son. You might be young now, but I want you to understand that starting from now everything changes. I wanted to apologize to you, for giving a life that you never chose. I put you in war, what happened to your Mom is the start of your hatred towards me and I understand that. Sooner or later you will discover this video that I did, if something ever happened to me. Please, do not kill Alfred Constantine. Allow the law to judge them, ayokong madumihan ang kamay at pagkatao mo anak! Kaya kung maari ay ibigay mo sa batas ang lahat. Kung ano man ang kaso ko na maririnig lahat yun ay planado ni Alfred dahil siya ang leader ng Alfonso Gang. Kung hindi ko man nagawa na ipasok siya sa loob ng selda, yun ay dahil ayokong saktan ka nila at hindi ako papayag na mawala ka sakin. Mabuhay kang nang mapayapa at masaya, I love you my son!” 

That’s what he said throughout the video. He knew all along that Tito Alfred is his enemy but he keeps him close so he knows what he will be doing. Higit sa lahat ay para protektahan ako.

All my life I think of him as a corrupt politician and a**hole but here I am being the bad son! 

“Sir?” The Police gave me a bottle of water but I ignored it. 

Everyone is quiet not until my phone rings. 

I answered the call without looking at the screen. 

“Hello?” I asked.

“Rage, my dear.” It’s Tito Alfred. 

“What do you want? F*cker!”

“Well, I wanted to say that I’m in grief about your Father’s death. I have a gift for you in your penthouse. Hope you enjoy it, bye!” He said just like that and ended the call. 

“Are you a trustworthy Officer?” I asked all the officers here. 

“We are.” One of the officers said. 

“Matagal ng wala akong tiwala sa kapulisan but proved me this time.” I told them. 

Sinama ko sila papunta sa penthouse ko, may mga plano silang gusto. But I told them to let me handle it first bago sila pumasok at arestuhin lahat ng mga tauhan ni Alfred. 

When we arrived at my penthouse.

Nagmamadali akong pumunta sa penthouse mag-isa. Kabado ako sa anumang pwedeng mangyari natatakot ako na baka may gawin sila. 

Nang makapasok ako sa loob ng penthouse ay mukha namang normal ang penthouse ko. Nilibot ko pa ang buong sala ko pero wala namang kahon o kahit na ano ang makikita. 

Hanggang sa tumunog ang elevator ko ng penthouse. A bunch of men came na para bang kanila ang pamamahay ko. 

I looked at them. All of them holding their weapons. My heart wanted to come out due to panic, I’m panicking inside. But still I try to calm down and ready myself to fight them.

They started to beat me one by one, I tried so hard to fight and defend myself but they all had different weapons. Sa sobrang hina ko ay napahiga na ako, I accepted every strike they gave to me. I’m on the edge of giving up! 

“Oh my gosh—-” I heard a female voice shout. I tried to open my eyes until I saw who it was. 

“Lexia.” I said her name in a low tone.

When I saw her, that’s where I got my strength to stand again. Ayokong saktan nila si Lexia. 

“Run!” I shouted at her, nakita ko naman siya na nagtago siya sa isang rooms ko. 

All I knew was I was beating them to death, I am already exhausted but there’s still few men left that still want to hurt me or probably kill me. I was holding a broken glass when I saw everyone was now unconscious and lay down on my penthouse floor. 

It’s so quiet now I saw Lexia coming out from my studio room. That’s where I saw the guy behind her. 

He’s holding a knife and it points on Lexia’s left stomach. 

“Tutal buong pamilya naman kayong magsasama sa kabilang buhay dahil, nauna na ang Nanay at Tatay mo doon sasalubungin mo na lang.” The way he insulted my parents, I really want to kill him. 

“You talk too much.” That’s the only thing I’ve said. I’m just glad that Lexia is small cause I know it didn’t hit her when I threw the broken glass to the guy. 

Minutes later Lexia and I were now hugging and the Police came right on time. They allow me to handle it first. 

—--

After that incident I gave all the evidence I found to the Police, even the one that Gray has. Some documents about the list of Alfred transactions in his drug business were found.

Because of that I have to admit in Hospital as well. After my discharge I fixed everything about my Father’s case. Paminsan minsan ako nakikipag usap sa Attorney ni Dad, though I already announced it in public that I cut ties with him, I'm still hands-on about his case. 

Few weeks or maybe months had passed, Lexia and I got back together. Besides, I never thought that she could give me all of herself. Nagulat ako nung nag Tagaytay kami, though I expected that I’ll be the one doing the first move. Yet she embraces me and she’s willing to give her everything. Lalo niya lang ako binigyan ng rason na hindi siya saktan. I thought they could leave me alone with Alfred's gang shit. But then they beat Achi, ang sabi ng Police ay napagtripan daw si Achi but that’s so impossible dahil mabait na bata yun. Look’s like alam ni Alfred na matatalo siya sa kaso kaya nagpadala siya ng warning. 

Lexia and I experienced many things in our first six months of relationship nag aaway at nagbabati din kami. I swear this is gonna be my last relationship cause I’m gonna marry her.

Kaya napagdesisyunan ko na ipakilala na siya sa press at isapubliko ang relationship namin, I think it’s better because we can now date. I even terminated my contracts abroad but I have to pay for the damages. Decidido na ako gusto ko bumuo ng pamilya kasama siya. I also want to enhance my investments. I like investing kasi malaki din ang balik sakin ng pera . That's why no wonder why my bank accounts are really flooding! 

I love Lexia, that's all I know. 

I thought payapa na kami, pero hindi pa rin ako tinantanan ni Alfred. His gang kidnapped Achi. 

“Sumosobra na siya.” I said to Gray, I called him to plan how we would knock down that old shitty snake. 

“I don’t think he just doesn't want to be in jail. There’s more than that.” Gray said, while he’s thinking. 

“And what’s that.” Kevin said. Actually, Kevin is in Gray placed kung nasaan kami ngayon. Dito ko sila pinuntahan.

“When Tito Achilles got framed up, and the media caught him. Something happened that night.” Gray continued thinking, until he stood up. I watch his move, he is finding something in his table. 

“What’s that?” Kevin asked.

“See.” He showed us a picture. The picture is just a photograph of a drug operation, money and others are gold. 

“What’s this?” I asked. 

“Those are missing. Ito siguro ang dahilan kung bakit hindi ka niya tinatantanan hindi dahil sa ayaw niyang makulong pero gusto niyang makuha ulit yan.” Gray explained.

“Saan naman natin ‘to hahanapin?” I said confusedly. 

“Any idea?” Kevin asked me.

I looked at both of them. 

“I don’t know.” I answered. 

“We need to save Achi, that's what we need to do, ‘cause if we chose to find his goods Achi’s life might be in danger.” I told them, I'm already overreacting here. 

“Well we still have one card.” Gray said. Kevin and I both looked at him.

“F*cking finish your sentence.” I cursed. 

“Jen, it may sound silly but we’re in the middle of gambling so, we should at least have one card too, right?” Gray continued. 

“Let’s call Jen.” Kevin said.

“Ali said they are having a girls night at your girlfriend's place Rage. Let’s just pick her up.” -Gray.

We moved instantly after we planned to take Jen. 

“What do we do to Jen then?” Kevin curiously asked.

“Nothing, we just need her to show up, you know, like a trade exchange to Achi.” Gray answered him. 

“So, she’s our bait?” Kevin asked again. 

“Mostly!” -Gray. I’m just listening to both of them. 

While my mind is reminiscing about the time that Achi and I were having a conversation, he wanted to become independent, find a job and lastly he wanted to find his mother. If something happened to him, I swear to whoever hears this I might literally kill Alfred.

Dahil malalim ang iniisip ko hindi ko namalayan na andito na pala kami kila Lexia.

If I’m in the good mood baka yakapin ko pa ang girlfriend ko pero hindi ei, wala sa isip ko yun ngayon. 

“Please, Jen, cooperate with us!” I sounded begging. I don’t have a choice this time.

“Anong kinalaman ko naman sa Alfonso Gang?” She asked. I can’t tell her I don’t want to hurt her feelings, if she knew about her Father’s doing. 

“Cause the leader of that Gang is your Father.” Grayson is the one who answered her, maybe he felt that we don’t want to ruin Jen’s feelings. Besides, compared to me and Kevin, Gray is not that close with Jen. 

Jen didn’t said anything basta na lang siya sumakay sa sasakyan. Hinarap ko si Lexia para magpaalam.

“Madali lang ito babalik agad ako, ibabalik namin si Jen. Dito lang kayo ha.” Yan na lang ang nasabi ko at sumakay na din sa sasakyan. 

When Gray started the engine, we’re all quiet. 

“I think I know where they are.” Jen said, breaking this quiet tension. 

“That’s great, thanks.” I said, I’m really thankful she knew. 

—--

Jen tells us about her Father's hideout. It gave me an idea that maybe she knows what kind of Father she has. When we arrived, only me and Jen entered first inside the hideout, some men noticed Jen and me. Gray advised it’s better if I pointed a gun at Jen so we can have an easy deal. I was shocked that Jen agreed, 

“There you are, Rage.” Alfred greeted us, but he stopped walking when he saw who I was with. 

“You shit, hold your fire. Walang magpapaputok ng baril.” Alfred shouted at his men. 

“Where is my brother?” I asked.

“Give my daughter first. Besides, we still have to talk.” He commanded me. 

“No, chance! Akin na muna kapatid ko.” 

“Ilabas niyo ang bata.” Utos niya. 

That’s where I saw Achi being tied up. 

“Untie him, kailangan niya makarating muna dito bago ko ibigay si Jen.” I try to sound not scared. 

I saw one of his men untying Achi strings to his hands and feet. 

Habang naglalakad si Achi ay may lalaki din na nakatutok ng baril sa likuran niya. Nang nasa harap ko na si Achi, biglang hinila ng lalaki ang kamay ni Jen. 

Si Jen na mismo ang lumaban sa lalaking yun para maagaw niya ang baril nito, Jen know taekwondo. 

Ngayon dalawa na kaming tinututukan ang grupo ng Tatay niya ng baril. Si Achi naman ay nasa likuran ko na. 

“Stay out of this Jen, and come here.” Her Dad shouted. 

Not until Gray and Kevin came and they were firing guns directly to those men. I’m trying to find where Alfred is. But I can’t leave Achi.

Jen is not on my side anymore. 

I looked around and it’s chaotic everywhere. I heard Achi crying as well. 

Before I helped Gray and Kevin, I am now hearing a Police siren. Tsaka lang sila nag tigilan sa barilan ng dumating na ang mga Pulis. It’s Officer De Castro. Kahit papaano ay lumuwag ang pakiramdam ko. 

Nang makalabas kaming lahat doon ko nakita si Lexia, and it’s proves how perfect this woman for me. 

—-

Today is the premiere release of my movie that Lexia wrote. The reason why I’m nervous is not because of the movie itself. It’s because I’m going to propose. 

I talked about the whole movie production well, Lexia is part of the production but she’s not included in this plan. Alangan naman isama ko pa siya edi hindi na naging memorable yun! 

I asked the production to add my proposal in the movie itself. Wherein after the movie before they show the credit clip that’s where my question flashed!

Habang papunta kami ng staff sa venue, lagi ko kinakapa ang suit pocket ko if nawala ba ang singsing na iaalay ko kay Lexia. 

I took it on one of my Mom’s jewelry at the Mansion. I’m renovating Dad Mansion. I asked Kevin to do that. Buti naman at pumayag siya.

“Your Dad must be proud.” Direk Teng said. I looked at him and gave him a smile. 

I already ask him if he can walk me in the aisle on my wedding day, siya lang naman ang isa sa matalik na kaibigan ni Daddy. 

“Thank you, Tito.” I thanked him, he’s good at taking care of me. Ngiti lang din ang ginanti niya sa akin. 

When we arrived at the cinema I waved to all the fans and press that came here. We’re also having a red carpet. 

“Rage, is there any hint of a movie you wanted to tell us?” The reporter met me and asked this question. 

“There is, actually if you finish the movie I don’t want you to leave early, plus I have an important announcement to make. You hear that?” All of them screamed with excitement, may mga reporter pa na gustong magtanong pero hindi ko na sila pinaunlakan. 

Nang makarating ako sa loob ng sinehan ay agad kong hinanap si Lexia. Kanina pa kasi siya dito, she’s with other staff. They are the ones busy with this event. Well, it’s part of our plan.

“Kararating mo lang?” She asked. 

“Yup.” I said and kissed her cheek. 

“Stop it, andito mga fans mo.” Hinampas niya ako.

“And so?” I shrugged. 

Hinila na niya ako sa uupuan namin, Ivy is not here she cancelled her schedule today. 

For sure she’s excited too, this is her first movie that she wrote.

Everyone is focused watching even Lexia. But me I can’t wait to finish the movie dahil nasa dulo ang proposal ko. 

After hours of waiting, finally it’s the clip we added. 

“It’s that me?” Lexia whispered, after she recognized her photo. Another thing this proposal is nationwide talagang part na ito ng movie. 

“Yes.” I answered her. 

I can’t stop smiling knowing that after this magsasama na kami. 

‘Even if you forgot me, my heart always finds its way to remember you and love you. Every story has its own start and end, Lexia allows me to ask this question as the beginning of our new journey. Lexia, will you marry me.’

Matapos i-flash ang proposal ko the spotlight focused on me. 

“Let me ask that again, Lexia, will you marry me?” All I see is that she is crying already. 

“Yes.” She answered, and all of the audience cheered for us. She stood up and kissed me. This is the best day of my life at marami pang susunod kasama siya.

She’s forever my one and only leading lady. 

~~~THE END~~~

M.NINS 😀