Chapter 5

RAIN

As we arrived back at the mansion, Alex pushed the door open with force, the sound echoing through the otherwise quiet house. The dimly lit foyer added to the tension, the shadows elongating with each sharp motion he made. His heavy, thunderous steps climbed the staircase, each one laced with anger, frustration, and a hint of jealousy.

His jaw was tight, his posture rigid, and his storm-gray eyes reflected a turmoil of emotions—hurt, rage, and a raw intensity that made my heart pound harder with every passing moment.

He didn’t say a word as he yanked open the bedroom door and slammed it shut behind us. Napapitlag ako sa ingay. Before I could speak or react, he pushed me onto the bed. I let out a small gasp, startled, as he quickly climbed over me, trapping me between his strong arms.

I swallowed hard, my heart pounding wildly in my chest as I looked into his eyes—burning with anger, intensity, and something else I couldn’t quite place. His breathing was heavy and uneven, his face inches from mine as he loomed over me.

I swallowed hard, my throat dry, as his piercing eyes bore into mine, demanding answers.

"Explain," he said, his tone cold and commanding.

I opened my mouth to speak but couldn’t form a coherent sentence. His patience snapped.

"Fucking explain, Rain, or I’ll lose my control and fuck you hard."

"I—I was just drinking wine and got tipsy," I stammered my reply, barely able to get the words out.

His jaw clenched even tighter, the tension in his face like a storm ready to explode.

"Why were you drinking wine then?" he asked again, his voice sharp and demanding.

"Gwen said something to me that made me confused," I whispered softly, my voice barely audible, trembling under his gaze.

His reaction was immediate, his hands gripping the sheets with such force that his knuckles turned white.

"What did she tell you, huh?!" he demanded, his voice a dangerous growl.

"Alex, calm down, please," I begged, hoping to soothe his anger.

"Tell me what she said to you, wife!" His voice thundered, leaving no room for avoidance.

"That I’m Penelope and not Rain. That you’re not my husband," I said hesitantly, each word feeling like a knife cutting into the tension between us.

"Fuck it," he spat, his expression darkening further. "Did you believe what she said?!"

I shook my head, tears welling up in my eyes. "I just got confused, okay!" I yelled, hoping he'd understand.

His intensity softened just a fraction, but his hand cupped my chin, tilting my face up to meet his stormy gaze. "Don’t believe anything she says. You will believe only me, only your husband. Do you understand?" His voice was deep, commanding, but there was an edge of vulnerability in his words.

I nodded quickly, unable to form a proper response.

"I want words, wife," he demanded, his tone firm yet expectant.

"Yes, I only believe you," I whispered, my voice steadier this time, trying to show him I meant every word.

A smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. "And who do you belong to?"

"I belong to you," sagot ko, halos wala sa sarili.

"And you’re mine, only mine," he said possessively, his eyes darkening with a mix of desire and dominance.

Our eyes locked, the tension between us palpable. Slowly, his gaze dropped to my lips, his voice low and unyielding. "Did you like his kisses?"

I quickly shook my head. "No, I was a bit tipsy, so I thought it was you," I explained, my words stumbling over themselves in haste.

"Did you like the kiss?" he asked again, his tone sharper, his jaw tightening as he awaited my answer.

I shook my head once more, firmer this time.

"Then who do you like to kiss?"

"You, my husband," I replied without hesitation, my voice steady and resolute, as if it were the most obvious truth in the world.

"Yes, only me who kisses you and tires you with ecstasy," he said, his tone dropping to a seductive murmur.

The atmosphere between us shifted, the air becoming heavy with tension and heat. His eyes burned with desire as he leaned closer. He captured my lips in a searing kiss, rough yet passionate, his hands tangling in my hair. My body responded instinctively, my hands gripping the lapels of his suit as I deepened the kiss.

I couldn’t think of anything else but the heat radiating from his body, pressing against mine.

He suddenly stopped, his intense gaze locking onto me. His eyes scanned my flushed face, lingering on my lips that had turned a deeper shade of red, trembling ever so slightly. My eyes betrayed me, silently pleading for more, seeking something I couldn’t quite name.

"Let’s take this to level two, shall we?" he murmured, his voice low and dripping with seduction.

The sound of his voice sent shivers down my spine, igniting a warmth within me that I couldn’t begin to explain. It was as though his words alone had the power to unravel me, leaving me breathless and completely at his mercy.

I blinked up at him, dazed. "Please, I want level two," I whispered, not even knowing what I was asking for, but the throbbing heat in my body begged for relief.

He smirked, his confidence electrifying. "Allow me to dive into your pussy, wife," he said boldly, his voice rough with desire.

Before I could protest, his lips descended on mine again, harder this time. His tongue invaded my mouth, dominating mine as we battled for control. His hands roamed my body, trailing down to my waist, pulling me closer.

His lips moved to my neck, kissing, licking, and sucking, leaving a trail of fire in their wake. A soft moan escaped my lips, and I tilted my head, giving him more access.

"Alex, please," I begged breathlessly.

"Relax, wife. This seaman is tasting his delectable fish first," he teased, his breath hot against my ear.

He pulled back, his gaze locking with mine, a wicked smile playing on his lips. "Step back and let your back rest against the headboard because I want to eat now," he said, his voice commanding yet teasing.

I gasped but obeyed, backing up until my back hit the headboard. He followed slowly, predatory, his eyes never leaving mine.

"Alex, Aunt Lori isn’t here. What are you planning to eat?" I asked, my voice trembling, barely above a whisper as his intense gaze bore into me.

A slow smirk spread across his lips, dark and teasing. He leaned in closer, his breath warm against my ear. "Oh, wife," he murmured, his voice low and husky, "I think you already know the answer to that."

"What?"

"Your pussy," he growled.

His hands gripped my dress, and with one swift motion, he ripped it apart, exposing my bra and panties.

"Alex! I liked that dress! Why did you rip it?!"

"I’ll buy you more, wife. Don’t worry," he said dismissively, his eyes already devouring my exposed skin.

His hands trailed down to my panties, ripping them away effortlessly. He spread my legs, positioning himself between them, his shoulders pressing against my thighs. His gaze darkened as he stared at my most vulnerable spot.

"Now, it’s time for me to eat you," he declared.

And then, without warning, he dove in. His tongue licked a long stripe along my folds, sending jolts of pleasure through my body. I gripped the sheets tightly, my toes curling as he sucked, licked, and explored every inch of me.

"This is what my brother’s crazy about. Shit, it’s delicious," he said between licks, his voice filled with satisfaction.

"Ahh, Alex… more, please!" I begged, my voice breaking with need.

He didn’t let up, his movements relentless as my body arched off the bed. I was trembling, my vision blurring as waves of pleasure crashed over me.

When I finally came, screaming his name, he continued, his mouth working me mercilessly until I was a sobbing, shaking mess.

Finally, he stopped, his face glistening with my essence. "God, you look fucking good. I’m addicted," he said, smirking as he wiped his lips.

I was still catching my breath when he picked me up effortlessly and carried me into the bathroom.

"Alex, I’m tired," I mumbled, my voice weak.

"Don’t worry, wife. I’ll take care of you," he said, his tone soft and reassuring.

He placed me gently in the bathtub and began to wash me, his hands gentle yet thorough. As he cleaned me, he hummed a soft tune, the sound soothing and intimate.

Afterward, he carried me to the wardrobe, dressing me in soft, comfortable clothes. Once I was taken care of, he brought me to bed, wrapping me in his arms.

I snuggled closer, basking in the warmth of his embrace. My heart swelled with affection, and I clung to him tightly, never wanting to let go.

——————

I woke up in the early hours of the morning, around 5 a.m. My head throbbed faintly as I opened my eyes, adjusting to the soft light filtering through the curtains. A warm and heavy arm was draped around my waist, pulling me closer with every slight movement. I could feel his slow, steady breathing against the back of my neck—a comforting, intimate presence that made my heart flutter.

Turning my head slightly, I caught a glimpse of Alex’s peaceful face. He looked like an angel when he slept, his strong features softened by the stillness of slumber. My heart raced as I stared at him, my cheeks heating as flashes of last night came rushing back—the warmth of his kiss, the way his touch ignited something deep within me. I shook my head, trying to calm the thoughts racing through my mind. Get a grip, Rain. You’re far too easily flustered!

Carefully, I slid out of his arms, not wanting to disturb him. I sat at the edge of the bed, stretching my arms and letting out a quiet yawn. The cold morning air brushed against my skin, sending a shiver through me. A thought struck me—why not prepare a special breakfast for Alex? Something to show my appreciation and maybe make up for the drama I caused yesterday.

Entering the bathroom, I went through my usual morning routine, washing my face and splashing it with cold water to fully wake up. The cool sensation helped clear my head. Once ready, I made my way downstairs to the kitchen. The mansion was eerily quiet, save for the faint creaks of the wooden floor under my feet.

In the kitchen, I decided to make a scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, grilled tomatoes, buttered toast, baked beans, and sausages. As I cooked, the sizzle of bacon and the rich aroma of the sausages filled the room, making my mouth water. I brewed a fresh pot of tea, pouring it into a delicate teapot and arranging it on a tray alongside milk and sugar.

While flipping the eggs, my thoughts wandered to Gwen’s cryptic words from yesterday.

“Who’s Penelope?” I muttered to myself, frowning. “And why did Gwen call me that? What does she know?”

The question gnawed at me. Why were Aunt Lori and Alex so secretive about my past? Were they hiding something from me? I shook my head, trying to focus on the present.

Just as I was plating the food, a loud thud came from upstairs, followed by Alex’s voice calling out, panic evident in his tone. Seconds later, I heard hurried footsteps descending the staircase.

When Alex appeared in the doorway, his hair was disheveled, and his eyes were filled with a mixture of relief and lingering fear. Without a word, he strode toward me and wrapped me in his strong arms, holding me tightly as though I might disappear. His face buried into the curve of my neck, and I felt the warmth of his breath against my skin.

“Alex, what’s wrong?” I asked, my voice soft, concern lacing my words.

“I thought you were gone,” he murmured, his voice shaky. “I woke up, and you weren’t there. I thought… I thought you’d left me.”

His words hit me like a punch to the gut. I gently pushed back enough to look at him, my brow furrowing. “Why would I leave? Alex, I have no reason to leave you.”

He exhaled a shaky breath, his shoulders relaxing slightly. “I don’t know. I guess… I’m still haunted by the accident. Seeing you hurt like that—it broke something in me. I’m terrified of losing you.”

Hearing the vulnerability in his voice made my chest ache. I reached up, brushing my fingers against his cheek. He leaned into my touch, closing his eyes as though grounding himself in the moment.

“Alex,” I said softly, my voice steady, “I’m here. I’m not going anywhere. You have me, heart and soul, because I love you.”

His eyes opened, and a small, genuine smile touched his lips. “I love you too, beyond words,” he whispered before leaning down to press a lingering kiss on my lips.

After a moment, his gaze shifted to the table where the food was neatly arranged. His expression lit up, and he gestured toward it. “Did you make all of this?” he asked, a hint of surprise in his tone.

I nodded shyly. “I thought I’d cook for you. It’s my way of saying sorry for yesterday.”

He chuckled and pressed a kiss to my cheek. “You’re forgiven. Now let’s see if you’re as good at cooking as you are at driving me crazy.”

I rolled my eyes playfully and handed him a plate, piling it high with scrambled eggs, bacon, and sausages. “No pressure, then,” I teased.

Before he could start, I set down a cup of tea in front of him. “I didn’t make coffee, but I brewed tea.”

He sipped it cautiously, his eyes lighting up. “It’s perfect. Thank you.”

As we sat together, enjoying the hearty breakfast, the morning sun streamed through the kitchen windows, casting a warm glow over us. The tension of the previous day seemed to melt away, replaced by quiet laughter and tender smiles. It felt like a fresh start—a moment of peace and love in the early hours of a new day.

—

I was helping Aunty Lori prepare lunch as we chatted. I carefully arranged the food on the table, trying not to make any mistakes.

“Iha, did Sir do anything to you last night?” she asked as she set the hot pot of seafood.

I shook my head, feeling the heat rise in my cheeks. “No, we just talked,” I answered, forcing a smile so she wouldn’t suspect anything.

She looked at me like she knew something, but didn’t press the issue. “What happened when we went out?” I asked, my curiosity getting the better of me as she began packing some food into Tupperware.

Aunty Lori sighed, her expression turning serious. “Donya Rosa got angry with Sir. But she and her daughter talked things through, and they agreed that Rico was at fault, too. So, he’s being sent back to the States.”

“Are Rico and Gwen siblings?” I asked, unable to hide my curiosity.

“I’ve heard that Rico is an illegitimate child. His father’s in the States. Gwen is the real child of the couple,” she explained carefully while sealing the Tupperware. Then, she looked at me, her voice softening. “Don’t worry about them, Iha. It’s better to focus on your life with Sir.”

“But what else happened?” I pressed, wanting to know more.

“Don Guirado got really angry because of the scandal. He paid the people who witnessed and heard everything to stay quiet. But we didn’t accept the money. We know what’s right and what’s wrong,” she added firmly.

I nodded, feeling the weight of what had happened. It’s one thing when money’s involved—it often hides the truth. But it was clear to me that Aunty Lori had principles.

I couldn’t help but think about Rico and Gwen—siblings but with a secret relationship? That was so wrong. But why was I still thinking about them?

I had my own life to focus on.

The distant hum of an approaching car broke my thoughts. It was loud enough to hear from the kitchen.

“Looks like Sir has a visitor,” Aunty Lori said, smiling as she wiped her hands and walked toward the living room. I followed her, curiosity pulling me along.

As we entered the living room, I saw a beautiful woman step inside. She had an air of elegance, but there was something cold about her presence.

“Nay, where’s Zivon?” the woman asked, her voice carrying authority.

“He’s in the office. Please, have a seat,” Aunty Lori replied politely, gesturing to a chair.

The woman didn’t smile. Instead, her sharp eyes scanned me from head to toe. A smirk curled on her lips as she walked toward me and extended her hand.

“Hi, you must be the sweet wife of Zivon. I’m Queen Llanera, your husband’s friend. It’s nice to meet you,” she said, her tone sweet but laced with pretense.

Is she the one texting Alex? I fought to hide my anxiety and gave a small smile before shaking her hand.

“You really look like her. Amazing! I’m so creative with creativity,” she said, letting out a soft laugh.

I tilted my head, confused. “Do you mean Penelope?” I asked, studying her reaction.

Her body stiffened, and her eyes narrowed, as if I’d struck a nerve. “Why do you know that name?” she asked, her voice tinged with suspicion.

“Doesn’t matter. Do you know who Penelope is? And why they keep calling me her?” I pressed, trying to steady my voice despite the tremor in it.

From the corner of my eye, I noticed Aunty Lori’s face pale. Her expression was a mixture of fear and concern, as if I’d said something forbidden.

Queen smirked again, her confidence returning. “You’ll find out soon enough who you really are, Rain,” she said with a hint of mockery.

I was about to speak when we heard Alex’s deep voice behind us.

“Rain.”

I turned to see Alex standing in the doorway. His gray eyes were dark with fear and anger, and his fists were clenched tightly by his sides. His gaze shifted to Queen, and his jaw tightened. He clearly wasn’t happy about her presence.

“Zivon, there you are,” Queen said, her tone suddenly lively. She approached Alex and kissed him on the cheek.

My chest tightened with jealousy, but I forced myself not to show it.

“Rain, go to your room,” Alex commanded, his voice cold and lacking any warmth.

“Why? I’m staying here,” I replied, refusing to comply.

“Don’t make me repeat myself. Go to your fucking room. Now!” he barked, his icy tone sending chills down my spine.

Queen grinned at me, clearly enjoying the situation.

“But—” I started to argue, but he didn’t listen. He grabbed my wrist firmly and dragged me toward the stairs.

“Alex, stop!” I begged, my heart breaking with every step. Tears blurred my vision as I stumbled after him.

He didn’t stop until we reached the bedroom. Throwing the door open, he shoved me inside, causing me to fall to the floor. I yelped as pain shot through my hands from the impact.

“Stay here and do not come out,” he said coldly, his eyes hard and serious.

“Alex, please…” I whispered as tears streamed down my face, but he ignored me.

Without another word, he slammed the door shut and locked it, leaving me alone.

I sat on the floor, hugging my knees to my chest as I cried. My heart felt shattered, torn apart by the confusion and pain I was experiencing. I couldn’t understand why he was acting this way or why I was being shut out.

Confusion and hurt swirled inside me, suffocating me as I cried harder.

What was happening?

Why was this happening?

And why did I feel so lost?