Chapter 3
"Ma-nang, ag-agriing kan. Na-bangsit tu ta ang-saw mon."Instead of being irritated, I smiled as my brother strongly shook my arm and told me to wake up. He is mimicking how I always wake him up; I tell him that if he doesn't get out of bed, his breath will stink.My eyes were still closed, and I could feel him lying next to me. His lips pressed against my arm. Every morning, he kisses my arm. "M-morning, ma-nang." His words are soft, causing him to mumble on every letter, but I understand what he's saying because we've been together since birth.When Josue was four years old, he was diagnosed with Angelman syndrome. Kinukonsidera ang sakit niya bilang ‘syndromic’ form ng autism spectrum disorder. All these years, he has attended speech therapy and received cognitive-behavioral therapy. Kaya medyo nagagawa niyang makipag-usap at makihalubilo sa amin. At the age of 10, doon pa lang siya natutong maglakad mag-isa.I can understand the hardships and exhaustion that my parents endured over the years, so I can't entirely blame them for abandoning us.That memory made me smile bitterly. I also decided not to attend college because of my brother's illness. I was the one who looked after him. Sayang din kasi ang ibabayad ng mga magulang ko kung sakaling kumuha sila noon ng kasambahay. Pandagdag na rin iyon sa perang ipambibili ng gamot ng kapatid ko."Morning, ading ko. Nangan kan?" (Good morning, ading. Have you eaten?) tanong ko sa kanya. I caressed his gentle face. He couldn't stop smiling and moving his hands while touching my left arm."W-en, Ma-nang," he replied, his hands flapping as he cast a brief glance at me. When he smiled, I noticed he had just brushed his teeth, and I could smell his fresh breath. "Ha!" He laughed as he blew his breath in my face.I laughed, stood up, and smacked him with my pillow. He also stood up and took my other pillow, then hit me again while laughing. Every morning, this is our routine, and I make an effort to interact with him before leaving for work.When I told him I was going to take a shower, he agreed to behave. Mabilisan palagi ang pagligo ko. Fifteen minutes na kuskos sa katawan ko, ayos na.Wala naman akong boyfriend na aamoy sa akin.I put on my uniform, which is a button-down shirt, a black vest, and black pants. Hindi pa kasi natuyo ang black skirt na isinampay ko sa likod ng refrigerator. It has been my dryer since time immemorial. Only poor kids know that technique.My make-up has always looked the same. My eyeshadow is a rose and blush shade. I didn't use mascara because my lashes are naturally long, curled, and dark. I only use a light foundation and a sun-kissed blush on my face because I want it to be simple. I simply clipped a hairclip to both sides of my curly lob hair. Hindi ako nagwisik ng pabango.Matapos kong kumain, inihatid ko si Josue sa plant garden ni Tita. Her "plantitarium" sells ornamental plants, orchids, and native plants. She also offers concrete pots, indoor fountains, pedestals, koi ponds, grottos, and wall fountains for sale.Katabi lang naman iyon ng bahay ni Tita. Ilang steps lang. Doon nila inuubos ang oras nila sa maghapon."Sue, behave, okay?" paalala ko sa kapatid ko. "Walang Mcdo, kung hindi behave." "Mmm!" Mabilis siyang tumango. "Sue, be-have." Humalik pa siya sa braso ko. He waved at me as I prepared to leave."Anong gusto mong ulam mamayang gabi?" tanong ni Tita. Hawak na niya sa kamay ang kapatid ko. Minsan kasi, humahabol siya sa akin, gustong sumama sa trabaho ko. Nasa gilid pa naman ng kalsada ang puwesto ng "plantitarium" ni Tita."Kahit ano po, Tita. Pero kapag may bangus, sinigang na lang. Kapag gulay po, pinakbet." I waved to them both."B-bye, ma-nang!" Josue yelled happily."Be a good boy!" hiyaw ko pabalik. I then rode a tricycle to Serene & Loud Restobar.Nag-clock-in ako pagkapasok ko sa S & L. Iniwasan kong makita si Mariposa dahil nakakasira siya ng umaga.Pero kung sinusuwerte ka nga naman! Napapikit ako nang makasalubong ko siya. Hindi pa nagbubukas ang restaurant, kaya may time pa kami para gumamit ng comfort room.I sighed as I opened my eyes. Nagbilang ako ng isa hanggang tatlo at boom!"Nakakainis sa bahay, pinagalitan na naman ako ni Mama. Late na kasi ako umuwi kagabi," himutok niya habang magkasalubong ang kilay niya. Nireretouch niya ang make-up niya.Naghugas ako ng kamay at sinulyapan ko ang repleksiyon niya sa salamin. "Not everyone has a mother to scold you, so be thankful," maikli kong sabi. Umiskapo agad ako dahil alam kong mahaba pa ang hanash niya sa buhay.I used to be envious of her. She can easily vent her angst on others. Ako? Hindi ko kaya iyon. Mas gusto ko iyong sinosolo ko ang problema dahil ayaw kong maging burden sa ibang tao. Feeling ko kasi, lahat tayo may pinapasan kaya bakit ko pa idadagdag ang pasan kong problema sa 'yo?As a waitress, I always make sure to leave my personal life at home. When I'm at work, my focus is on providing the best service possible to each and every customer. I maintain a genuine smile, even when I'm feeling down, and strive to make everyone feel welcome and taken care of.Sumaglit muna ako sa staff house na nasa tabi lang ng restobar. Ilang dipa lang ang layo niyon mula sa kinatatayuan ko kaya mabilis akong nakarating sa loob."Hi, baby girl!" Bati ko sa anak ng mga boss ko. She is Skye, their cuddly and chubby only child. Patakas kong pinisil ang pisngi niya habang nakatingin sa ibang direksiyon ang mommy niyang si Isla Gabrielle, the former Binibining Pilipinas crowned in 2003. Oh, di ba? May kaibigan akong beauty queen. Parang David at Goliath lang kami kapag nagtabi kami, ang tangkad kasi niya sa taas niyang 5'9.Ako 5'2 na nga, panget pa.Pinitik ni Gab ang noo ko noong pumalahaw na sa iyak si Skye. Naiwan kasi ang bakat ng dalawang daliri ko sa pisngi niya sa sobrang sensitive ng balat niya."Sorry na. Nakapanggigigil kasi ang pisngi ng baby mo." Natatawa kong iniharang ang kamay ko sa mukha ko dahil may balak na naman siyang ulitin ang ginawa niya sa noo ko."Gumawa ka kasi ng sarili mong anak. Hindi 'yong ginagawa mong parang siopao ang pisngi ng anak ko. Lagi mong kinukurot," iritable niyang sabi.Umiskapo agad ako.Pero goods ang babaeng 'to. Super kind at maganda pa.I returned to the restaurant and resumed my duties, setting up breakfast and accompanying customers to their tables. It's a really stressful job, but I've gotten used to it after five years.Kaya ko at kakayanin ko!It can get pretty hectic during peak hours - three table may be waiting for their breakfast order, while two more are in the middle of their appetizers and it's already time for me to place their main course orders. Meanwhile, another table may be nearly ready for dessert, and yet another is waiting for their check. The statuses of each table change constantly, and I need to stay on top of everything to ensure that each customer is satisfied.For me, remembering a diner's order is already a piece of cake.Ever since I started wearing bows as part of my service, I've noticed an increase in the amount of tips I receive from customers. But it's not just about the accessory - when I'm serving my customers, I make it a point to treat them with respect and make them feel valued. Whether it's through small talk, attentive service, or a genuine smile, I want every customer to feel like they're important and appreciated. It's not just about earning tips - it's about creating a positive experience for everyone who walks through our doors.Lagi ko ring ipinaaalala ang pangalan ko para next time na bumalik sila, puwede nilang i-request na ako ang mag-asikaso sa kanila. They always give me tips this way.Mukha akong pera, e! Ang perang iyon ay iniipon ko para sa may ipandagdag sa gamot ng kapatid ko at sa goal kong makapag-aral muli.Hindi naman porque bente-uno na ako, wala na akong karapatang mangarap. Siyempre, may mga goals din ako sa buhay.I left work at 5 p.m. and went home. Pagbaba ko ng tricycle, napahiyaw ako dahil nagulat akong may hawak na itim na malaking aso ang kapatid ko. He was swaying the dog in his arms. Nakatatakot ang itsura ng asong iyon."Put that dog down!" sigaw ko sa kanya."Ma-nang." Bakas sa mukha niya ang pagkabigla. Sa taranta niya, sinunod niya ang utos ko. He set it down, but what surprised me was that the big black dog came rushing towards me.Sa takot ay mabilis kong inakyat ang puno ng bayabas na nasa tabi ko. Bumagsak rin ako sa lupa dahil maliit lang naman ang punong iyon.I lay on the ground and caressed my aching bum. I heared my brother's laughter. Nanginig ang kalamnan ko sa takot nang dambain ako ng malaking aso."Mi-lo, s-stop!" My brother yelled in slurred words, causing the dog to freeze in his spot. Ilang segundo siyang umupo sa harap ko, titig na titig sa mga mata ko. Dinilaan niya ang mukha ko at naramdaman ko ang init ng hininga niya. Para bang kakainin na yata niya ako. Nakapikit ako ng mariin at hinintay na lapain niya ako...Pero walang nangyari.Pagmulat ko, wala na siya sa harapan ko.Aba't!Nakipaglalaro nang muli ang kapatid ko sa asong itim na iyon. I'm not sure what breed it is; wala naman kasi akong hilig sa mga hayop."Saan mo napulot 'yan?" sigaw ko kay Josue. Natatakot akong lumapit dahil baka kagatin ako ng hawak niya.Hindi niya ako sinagot.Sumungaw mula sa loob ng bahay si Tita at binati ako. "Galing 'yan sa bahay ni Maximus. Sabi ko nga sa kapatid mo, isauli na namin, pero ayaw niya. Gusto na yatang angkinin. Mabuti at hindi pa hinahanap ni Mac."Napataas ang kilay ko. Kailan pa nahilig sa aso ang isang iyon? Samantalang sarili niyang relasyon, hindi niya maalagaan.Oh? Parang tunog-bitter ako roon, a.Kahit noong dinner time na, kasalo namin sa hapag ang aso. Binilisan ko nga ang pagkain dahil ayaw ko sa amoy niya. Mukhang hindi pa pinaliliguan ng ilang araw.Ako na ang nagprisintang maghugas. Pagkatapos kong linisin ang kusina, hinanap ko ang kapatid ko. He was still playing with the dog in the living room. I told him to take a shower, and he did.Nagkatitigan pa kami ng aso kaya sa takot ko, pumasok na lang ako ng kuwarto. Inihanda ko ang mga gagamitin ko mamaya sa home service massage, pero ang babaeng si Olivia, wala pang mensahe hanggang ngayon. Anong petsa na?!Paglabas ng kapatid ko sa banyo, ang lego modular buildings naman ang pinagkaabalahan niya. Regalo iyon ng kaibigan kong si Gab sa kanya.Josue is intellectually disabled, but he enjoys playing his acoustic guitar and building legos.Dati, sa tabi ko siya natutulog ngunit nang magbinata na siya, sinanay namin na matulog siyang mag-isa. Mahirap siyang i-train, but it's worth it.8 PM na nang ma-receive ko ang message galing kay Olivia. Tingnan mo 'tong babaeng 'to, sabi niya umaga niya ipadadala ang address ng i-ho-home service ko.From: Olivia DiCagandahanHUY! Sorry, bakla! Late ko na naalala. Inadlay Road, Santander, Cebu. 'Yan yung address. Antayin mo na lang si Mang Inasal. Siya ang maghahatid sa 'yo roon. I-guide mo na lang sa direksiyon. Baguhan, e! You can also return home after your home service. Binayaran na ng client ang buong service mo for tonight.Natawa ako sa pangalan niyang Mang Inasal. Kaagad akong nag-type ng reply.To: Olivia DiCagandahanClient name?From: Olivia DiCagandahanCressida Almerino, the famous IT Girl and fashion modelAgad na kumabog ang dibdib ko. Dinaluhong ako ng kaba at excitement.Baka makita ko roon ang lalaking 'yon, pero pera rin 'to! Nakapanghihinayang, kung hihindian ko. We rushed to Santander as soon as Mang Inasal arrived at our house. Traffic pa sa bandang Alegria, kaya isang oras at kalahati ang nilakbay namin.When we arrived at Cressida Almerino's residence, my mouth widely opened, admiring the well-lit villa.Ako na ang bumaba sa bungad ng malaking gate, then I announced our arrival by pressing the intercom button. The gate opened automatically. Sumakay akong muli sa kotse dahil medyo may kalayuan pa ang malaking villa mula sa gate. Tanaw ko pa sa itaas ang malaking arko na may sulat na "Villa Almerino".Nagpaiwan si Mang Inasal sa kotse dahil inaantok daw siya. Magnanakaw lang daw siya ng tulog.A butler then greets me. Gosh! Ba't ang guwapo ng butler nila! He has stunning hazel eyes that captivate me.Pero sa loob-loob ko, may kakilala akong mas guwapo pa sa kanya. Hindi ko na lang sasabihin."Maayong gabii, Miss Jen. Cressida will arrive in a few moments. Please take a seat," he said, motioning to the grand sofa in the living room.Pero nanatili akong nakatayo.Napakaganda ng loob ng malaking bahay na iyon. Hinangaan ko ang brown facade nito at ang mga looban ng villa ay may mga kulay na teal, gold, lemon, at bright rust at sienna. Nakakalula ang pagkakalatag ng herringbone wood floors at arched glass doorways na nagbibigay ng sophisticated look sa kanyang mansion.Halatang mamahalin ang mga muwebles mula sa sofa, chandelier, chaise longue, at center table. Ngunit ang grand piano na may tatak na Steinway & Sons Fibonacci ang nakapukaw ng aking pansin. It stood right beside the staircase. Siguro may isang miyembro ng pamilya nila na mahilig sa musika.Napakaganda rin ng marble staircase na mayroong corinthian columns sa itaas. Meron pang bar area na mayroong dark gold wall at circular bar shelf. Halatang mamahalin ang lahat ng alak dito.Sa labas naman ay mayroong outdoor plunge pools at verandas na may malawak na tanawin ng dagat, na tumutunghay sa magandang gabi sa kalapit na isla ng Negros Oriental."Hi. You must be Jen Salas."My attention was drawn to a sweet voice that filled the room. I turned and saw a tall, stunning woman with supermodel-thin features and glamorous style, wearing a tank top and high-waisted shorts. Her long, ashy blonde hair cascaded down her waist, and her face was incredibly attractive.I couldn't help but feel small in her presence. She stood as tall as my friend Gab, who is known for her height. Beside her was another sophisticated-looking woman, who stood just as tall. She had a double bass slung over her back and was wearing a navy blue empire-waist dress that accentuated her curves. I was captivated by her beauty, and couldn't take my eyes off her."Did we keep you waiting?" Tanong niya. She motioned for me to take a seat."Hindi naman, Miss. Kararating lang din namin," sagot ko."Si Faith nga pala, kaibigan ko. You'll also be massaging her. Ayos lang naman, 'di ba?"It will be my pleasure, Miss," I said with a smile to them, raising my hands.Miss Faith simply nodded instead of shaking my hand. Nahihiya tuloy akong nagbaba ng kamay. Hindi rin siya ngumiti. Tanging si Miss Cressida lang ang kumakausap sa akin.Ipinagsawalang-bahala ko iyon dahil wala namang kaso sa akin."We'll just change our clothes. Have you eaten?" Malambing na tanong ni Miss Cressida. Nang sinabi kong, "Yes, Miss", iniwan na nila ako. Sinabi pa niyang feel at home lang daw.The butler told me my clients were ready and I confidently walked upstairs. I then took out the massage oils and creams along with the towels. Inuna kong imasahe si Miss Cressida, and I could tell she liked how I massaged her entire body."You're fantastic. It's no surprise that Kuya Levitt recommended you to me the last time," she complimented me.I remembered Sie Levitt, the person I massaged the night before.I followed up by massaging her friend."I'd be going back to Manila later," she said in a strong voice, giving off an air of confidence."Why?" Miss Cressida stood up from her seat and moved to the massage chair, holding a wine glass in her hand. "Kuya isn't here, if that's what you're worried about."The other woman laughed. "Fortunately, I ended our relationship. I will never settle for a man who does not value me."Miss Cressida raised an eyebrow. "You won't find anyone like Kuya. He's just preoccupied with the family business. It's not like he's seeing other women.""Even so. I don't like being taken for granted."Hindi sumagot ang isa. Nagpatuloy ako sa pagmamasahe, pero natigilan ako nang magtanong si Miss Faith sa akin. "What about you, Miss? Would you be satisfied with someone like Jacques Almerino? You've heard of him, right? He's well-known."I shook my head, even though she couldn't see me since she was lying on her stomach. "I wouldn't settle for him either, not because he doesn't value me, but because he doesn't like me."Both women laughed."What? Do you have a crush on him?" nagulat na tanong ni Miss Faith.I quickly shook my head. "No. I mean..." I took a deep breath because I didn't want to reveal that I had a crush on Jacques for a long time. "I mean, I'm just answering your question. It's a situational issue. Why should I like him if he doesn't like me?""Oh! Miss Jen, you almost gave me a heart attack," Miss Faith said, caressing her chest absentmindedly. "I ended my relationship with him, but my family needs him. And our wedding is in two months. And her mom gave him two months to do whatever he wanted here in Cebu."Oh, two months!Chapter 4"Kahit nasa 21st century na tayo, uso pa rin pala ang arranged marriage. Does that mean you don't love each other and were forced to marry by both of your mothers?"Hindi ko napigilang itanong noong itinutupi ko na ang mga towel na ginamit ko sa pagma-massage. Curious kasi ako.Kasasabi lang kasi niya kanina na magpapakasal pa rin sila dahil utos ng mga mommy nila. Kawawa naman silang dalawa kung mapipilitan silang magsama dahil lang sa family tradition. And they both have two months to enjoy the freedom of being single, though they both agreed to keep their freedom even if they are married. Sa papel lang daw sila kasal.Medyo TMI, pero hindi ko maintindihan ang sarili ko. Kanina disappointed ako, ngayon medyo magaan na ang pakiramdam ko.Natigilan sa pagtatali ng roba si Miss Faith at sinulyapan ako. Ngumiti siya ng mapait at wala siyang imik na lumabas ng kuwarto. Mas lalo tuloy akong naging curious.Ibinalik ko ang lahat ng massage oils and creams sa backpack ko, at inila
Chapter 5"Kapag nakita ko ang Mac na 'yon, makakatikim siya sa'kin ng salita. Pasalamat siya't hindi ko naabutan."Tita's irritated voice woke me up the next morning. I could have slept a little longer, but the sound of my brother's retching roused me from my slumber.I found him in the bathroom, throwing up repeatedly. I approached him and scolded him, "Ano ang napala mo sa sobrang pag-inom kagabi?" I ran my fingers through my slightly curly hair as I reprimanded him.While my brother continued to vomit, Tita comforted him by rubbing his back.Tumingala siya sa akin, matapos punasan ni Tita ang bibig niya. "S-akit u-lo, sa-kit tiyan ko, ma-nang," sabi niya sa kaawa-awang tinig. Bahagya pa siyang nakalabi, and his gentle face showed signs of discomfort."Ikukuha kita ng tubig," sabi ko. Tumayo ako. Napasinghap ako dahil bumangga ako sa matigas na bagay, pagkaatras ko.The man with the alluring charm has come! He was wearing his executive suit and holding a glass of water by his side.
Chapter 6"Bakit nagpalit ka ng suot? Umuwi ba kayo?" tanong ko para mapagtakpan ang pagkakahuli niya sa pagtitig ko sa kanya. Bahagya niyang ipinilig ang ulo habang sinisimulan niyang imaniobra ang kanyang marangyang sasakyan. "The pet store dog peed on me from head to toe. Nasa taas siya ng estante kaya hindi ko napansin."Hindi ko napigilan ang sarili kong humalaklak, pati si Josue ay nakigaya rin sa paraan ng pagtawa ko. "Hindi nga?" Natatawa at hindi makapaniwala kong tanong."I'm speaking the truth. Fortunately, the owner had some extra new clothes that he gave me."Kinagat ko ang pang-itaas kong labi at tumingin sa labas ng bintana para pigilan ang sarili ko sa muling pagtawa. Baka kasi mainis siya sa 'kin. "Don't hold back your laughter. Mauutot ka, babaho rito," sabi niya na ikinagikgik kong muli. Sa pagtawa ko'y hinampas ko ng ilang ulit ang braso niya. Kagat-kagat naman niya ang inner cheeks niya habang nakatuon ang pansin niya sa dinadaanan namin. "I'm driving, Alyn. S
Chapter 7"Mmm."I hummed and place the glass on the counter. My right hand caressed his cheek, while the other was entwined in his hair; my heart continued to pound, my toes curled, and I felt sparks in my stomach.Halu-halo ang nararamdaman ko, nakalalasing ang banayad na paghalik niya sa labi ko. His kisses were so soft yet sensual, gentle yet powerful, that I craved more of his flavor. Ramdam ko ang pag-iinit naming dalawa ngunit nagpapasalamat akong hanggang sa bewang ko lang ang mga kamay niya. I could tell he was holding back from touching me more.Manigurado ka muna bago ka magpahalik. Hindi ka puwedeng basta na lang nagpapadampi ng labi sa lalaking committed! Nagsusumigaw ang sermon ng utak ko, kaso hindi ako nakinig.I tried to sneak a peek, and his eyes were closed, and it struck me how lovely he was. He looked so calm and content while kissing me.I tiptoed more and wrapped my arms around his neck and felt his soft tongue probe my mouth. I felt like my body was melting,
Chapter 8"I noticed you were wearing sneakers the last time I saw you; why didn't you wear them this time?" tanong ni Jacques habang isinusuot ang apat na pulgadang heels sa kanang paa ko. Sa madilim na liwanag ng ilaw sa back seat, ramdam ko ang bigat ng titig niya sa mukha ko kaya hindi magkamayaw ang paru-paro sa tiyan ko. "Naiwan ko sa bahay," pagsisinungaling ko. If I said my five-year-old sneakers had worn out, I'd be in an awkward situation. Tuluyan nang humiwalay ang suwelas ng sapatos ko. Naubos na ang laman ng rugby na lagi kong ipinandidikit kaya wala akong choice kundi isuot ang heels ko pauwi. I noticed his chest move slightly, as if he was sighing. Minasahe pa niya ng isang beses ang kaliwang paa ko, bago niya isinuot ang kapares ng heels ko. "Your anklet suits you," komento niya. Bahagya niyang pinasadahan ng daliri niya ang aking anklet kaya nagdulot ito ng mumunting kiliti sa aking bukung-bukong.I bite my inner cheeks because of it. "Amulet 'yan, bigay ng isa sa
Chapter 9Hindi na ako nakatulog, paglabas niya ng kwarto ko. Ilang saglit kong minulat ang mata ko para iproseso ang sinabi niya. Ako? Precious to him? Kailan pa? We've just only met again last Monday, a...Posible ba iyon na mahalaga na agad ako sa kanya—'di ba ngayon-ngayon lang naman kami naging close? O kaya ganito ba siya pumorma sa mga naging girlfriend niya?Speaking of girlfriends, I've never heard of him getting a girlfriend from any news source, not even the TV network that they own. Some are linked to him, but his PR team will quickly respond with a statement denying it. He also rarely appears in newspapers or on television because, despite being the CEO of Almerino TV Network, he keeps his personal life private.Ugh! Bago pa sumakit ang ulo ko sa kaiiisip ay itinaklob ko na ang unan sa mukha ko. Pinilit kong matulog para hindi ako antukin sa trabaho ko mamaya. Paggising ko, bumangon agad ako at kinuha ang puting tuwalya sa aparador. I went outside my room, and Tita wa
Chapter 10"Hindi mo na kailangang alamin kung kailan kita unang nagustuhan basta ang mahalaga maipakita ko sa 'yo na sinsero ako sa panliligaw sa 'yo at hindi ito isang laro lang."My heart raced around in my chest, beating furiously and causing my chest to rise and fall with short breaths. How does he say it so naturally? Sasagot pa sana ako ngunit hindi ko mahanap sa utak ko ang dapat kong sabihin. Tumingin na lang ako sa labas ng bintana para mapagtakpan ang kabang nararamdaman ko. "Has the cat got your tongue?" He chuckled as he looked at my side."Prangka ka rin pala, 'no?" I said flatly, unable to make my voice work properly."I wasted so many years; I won't waste time now that I have the opportunity to express myself to you." He looked over at me again, his brow furrowed, before returning his gaze to the road.Mas lalo lang akong napipi at hindi na nakapagsalita ngunit bigla ko na namang naalala ang nalalapit na kasal niya dahilan para mapalitan ng pait ang nararamdaman ko.
Chapter 11I'm on the verge of falling for him, which is downright terrifying. Is this even logical? Yes, I've known him for a long time, but it's only been five days since we've become closer. However, amidst the short amount of time I spent with him, I was able to sense how attentive he is to me. How tender he is with my Tita and Josue.How he went out of his way to do things for me. Ang paggising niya ng madaling-araw para sunduin ako. I know it's too soon to tell, but I could tell he genuinely cares about me. When he tucks my hair behind my ear, and massage my hands and feet, I can tell how much he cares for me.'Yong mga tingin niya sa akin na walang halong pagnanasa, 'yong pagpaparamdam sa akin na sapat ako kahit marami akong kapintasan. How he considers my comforts and likings, as well as the people around me.He compliments every aspect of me, including my flaws.My curly hair, which he knows I inherited from my Aeta mother. My olive skin, which he adores and which I inherit
I am so grateful that you've reached this point. Thank you so much. May we all realize, especially the young generation, that anchoring yourself into positivity and self-growth is never selfish.Epilogue "How about you, Jacq? Naniniwala ka ba sa 'love at first sight'?" tanong ni Maximus habang inaabot sa akin ang isang shot ng Jack Daniels.I am doing my thesis in my study room, and here they are, invading my privacy. But it is fine with me; bihira na lang kaming magkita. They are all studying in Cebu; I am here in Manila.I scoffed. "That's bullshit." Nag-pass ako sa alak. Seryoso ako sa pagtatype ng conclusion sa laptop na nasa harap ko."Sinasabi mo lang 'yan, pero baka kapag tinamaan ka, wala ka nang kawala," Maximus said as he passed the glass shot to Miles, my half-Irish friend."I also don't believe it; crush at first sight, puwede pa," si Leon."Who believes in that? We belong to the new generation now; more girls, more fun!" Miles, who's beside me, takes a look at what I'm
Chapter 47This is the final chapter. Thank you for being with me on the journey with my babies. Please also support me in my next series! Abangan ang epilogue!"You look nervous, baby." Jacques tilted his head while gently holding my hands. "Come here." Hinila niya ako upang kumandong sa kanya."I am..." Yumuko at pinaglaruan ang engagement ring na nasa daliri ko. Isinuot ko iyon kanina pagkatapos kong maligo. Jacques also touched my ring. I could hear his breathing in my ear, and it tickled me."I promise you everything will be okay, hmm?"I pouted, trying to push back the fear that was threatening to overwhelm me. "I'm nervous. I don't know what to expect.""I'm here for you, sasamahan kita hanggang sa loob."We just arrived at the airport and boarded our special flight to Manila to visit my mother. Hindi ko maiwasang makaramdam ng pagkabalisa."What if I trigger her emotions? Baka kung ano na naman ang sabihin niya sa akin Jacques..." Tiningnan ko ang kanang kamay kong magaling na
Chapter 46"I love you, too, Jacques. Nagsinungaling ako noong sinabi kong hindi na kita mahal. Ang totoo, mahal na mahal pa rin kita nadaig lang ako ng galit noong makita ulit kita," I sniffed, and he held my hand gently. "I'm sorry if I push you away. I wasn't there for you; I'm really sorry."I still couldn't stop myself from crying while my breath came in ragged gasps. Parang pinipiga ng paulit-ulit ang puso ko.Jacques tenderly held me close and soothed my back. "I'm doing great now, baby. It was a lot to take in, but I healed myself for you; I healed myself because I want to be strong for you."I sniffled as I drew away from the hug. Jacques stared at me intently as he wiped the tears from my eyes. "I love you so much, Jacques," halos pabulong kong sabi."I know, and I love you too," he replied, placing a kiss on my forehead. "I'm so grateful to be back with you now."Jacques' touch was gentle and soothing, a balm to our wounded hearts. His words were like a magic wand, soothing
Chapter 45Nanginginig ang kaliwang kamay ko nang pulutin ko sa sahig ang nahulog kong mobile phone. The words from Leon bring a thud to my heart. Hindi pa iyon agad rumihistro sa utak ko."This can't be. You are lying," halos pabulong kong sabi sa kanya. "I'm telling you the truth. Jacques was kidnapped when your family was killed. Dalawang taon siyang pinaghahahanap ng mga tauhan nina Auntie Thylane. She never announced it to the media because it would jeopardize all of their businesses."Napaupo ako sa sofa sa sobrang panghihina. Niyakap ko ang dilaw na throw pillow, umaasang makaaamot ako roon ng suporta.Umiling ako ng maraming beses. No! This can't be, nagbibiro lang si Leon! Jacques was healthy when I saw him. Pumayat lang siya ngunit maayos pa rin naman ang anyo niya."He was so thin when Clytius and Deukalíōn finally found him tightly tied up in a dessert building somewhere in Santander, Cebu. Halos hindi na siya makilala dahil mukha siyang pinaglaruan ng mga taong kumuha sa
Chapter 44Kinakabahan ako habang paupo kami sa right-side balcony. I saw many familiar faces while we were entering the concert hall a while ago. Almost all of the royalties from all over the world attended."Sis, umayos ka nga!" Nala pinched my side.Ngumuso ako. Hindi ko siya sinagot bagkus luminga ako sa paligid namin. Wala naman akong nakikitang bantay ni Jacques. May isa akong napansin kanina, pero hindi niya ako nakilala dahil nakasalamin na itim at may balabal pa ang aking ulo."Parang hindi ka pa sanay manood ng concert niya, e halos siya nga ang pinupuntahan mo tuwing dumadaong ang barko sa mga concert events niya," dagdag pa niya. She then held me the binoculars. Medyo malayo kasi ang puwesto namin. "Baka nga mahuli ako," sagot ko."Bakit ba kasi ayaw mo pang magpakita? Ilang taon na rin, ah?""Wala lang. I'm still enjoying watching him from a distance." Sumilip ako sa binoculars. "Sus! Ang sabihin mo, na-enjoy mo na ang pagiging single. Mukhang ayos ka na kahit hindi ka
Chapter 43"Nag-usap na kayo?" Lucas whispered at me as we fell in line to board the cruise ship. Malayo sa amin si Jacques, nasa pinakadulo siyang pila. Sinadya yatang magpahuli."Hindi," maikli kong tugon. Marami nang passengers at napaaga ang balik nila kaya nakapila na rin sila para mag check-in. Some were so loud that I even put on my airpods to not hear them. Naintindihan naman agad ni Lucas na ayaw ko ng kausap, kaya tinigilan niya ako.I fight the urge to look back again and search for him.Nang matapos ay dumiretso agad ako sa cabin. I went to the bathroom to brush my teeth and take a bath. Natulog ako pagkatapos na matuyo ang aking buhok. Pang-gabi ako ngayon, kaya gigising ako mamayang hapon.When it was time, I got up and took a shower. As usual, ay marami nang customer noong magclock-in ako. As soon as I entered the restaurant, I immediately stepped back into the mode of working under excessive pressure. I love mingling with passengers and serving them.It's never a dull
"Ukininana kitdi ti kastoy nga biag, makauma!"Umirap ako sa hangin habang sinusundan ko si Avril, ang waitress namin paakyat ng VIP floor kung nasaan ang sinasabi niyang mga bisita. Habang naglalakad kami ay nadadaanan namin ang ilan sa aming mga patron dito sa Serene & Loud Restobar.Binabati nila ako, at kumakaway naman ako na nakangiti. Sa halos mahabang panahon na pagtatrabaho rito ay kilala na ako ng halos lahat ng mga customers."Sino ba iyon? Bakit ako pinatatawag?" tanong ko sa kanya."Si Sir Almerino," maikli niyang sagot. Lumingon siya sa akin at bakas sa ngiti niya ang panunudyo."S-sinong Almerino. Si Koko?" nauutal kong tanong. Biglang sinakmal ng kaba ang dibdib ko.Nagningning ang mga mata niya at sinabing, "Bakit naman mapupunta si Koko sa VIP Room, e, nag-out na siya kanina pa?""Sino nga?!" Nagsisimula nang uminit ang ulo ko. Ang daming hanash nitong babaeng 'to, hindi pa sabihin kung sino. Natataranta na ako sa loob-loob ko."Si, Sir Jacques!" Napahawak pa ang dala
Chapter 41Tinupad nga niya ang mga binitiwan niyang salita kanina. He didn't come near me, but he visited and dined in our restaurant around 7 a.m.Halos matulala ako sa kaguwapuhan niya nang makita ko siyang prenteng naka-dekuwatro sa labas ng restaurant. Doon daw niya mas piniling kumain ayon sa waiter na nag-assist sa kanya.Simpleng puting t-shirt at itim na boardshorts ang suot niya ngunit bakit ganoon? His hair was slicked back, which made him more striking. His neatly shaven beard gave him an impeccable look as well. Idagdag mo pa ang shades niyang itim, you could mistake him for a celebrity.A coffee was in front of him while he was typing on his laptop. A turkey patty, a sunny side-up egg, and one slice of Spanish tortilla were on his plate. Tutok na tutok ang pansin niya sa laptop, hindi namamalayang halos lahat ng kababaihan ay nakatitig na sa kanya."Baka matunaw, sis," Nala said, giving me a teasing look.Inirapan ko siya. Pumasok akong muli sa kusina. Sumunod siya haban
Chapter 40"Nala naman! Hindi mo man lang tiningnan! Inubos na ang alak, o!"I can hear Tina's voice in the background as I lay my face on the table. Umiikot na kasi ang mundo at paningin ko. Mabilis akong tinamaan ng rum na ininom ko. Naramdaman ko ang pagyugyog niya sa akin. Itinaas ko lang ang kanang kamay ko."Are you okay?" She asked, gently cupping my face and making me face her.Nakapikit ako, pero tumango ako. "I'm okay," I mumbled.Narinig ko ang isang tunog ngunit hindi ko alam kung sino ang hinampas ng kung sino. "Ikaw kasi! Nakatutok lang siguro kay Sir Almerino ang mga mata mo!" si Tina.I couldn't stop myself from curving my brow."Wait! You know him?" Nala asked excitedly. "Ipakilala mo ako dali! Kanina pa siya tumitingin dito sa gawi namin! Feeling ko, na-love at first sight sa akin..."Nagmulat ako ng mga mata. Inaninag ang kanilang mga mukha. Nakita kong hinampas ni Tina si Nala sa braso, hawak pa rin niya ako sa kaliwa niyang kamay. "Puro ka pogi kaya walang nagses