Trisha's Diary

Dear Diary, 13

#TD13

"I'm not responsible for your father's death Atty. Lopez. Gano'n na ba kasama ang tingin niyo sa'kin? When something bad happens, sa'kin niyo sinisisi lahat?"

I tilted my head on the other side and cracked my knuckles. I can't believe that the governor is standing before me. I remained a few steps back, making sure he can't lay a finger on me. How did I suddenly find myself in his premises when I should be at work, working on my father's case.

He looked over his shoulder as I watch him pour wine in his glass. "Hmm? Would you like some wine?"

"No thank you," I declined coldly

He finally faced me. The corner of his lips tilted as his eyes scanned my body from head to toe. He looked at his glass and swirled it.

He then gestured me to take a seat on his sofa. "Take a seat Atty. Lopez. I may be rich, well-known, and one of the most influential people but I'm also renowned for my hospitality especially to professionals like you," he said with a warm smile

"I expected to see you in a hospital instead but," I said and took a seat. "Here we are." I kept my back straight, knees closed, and both hands on my lap. My bag was right beside me.

He let out a chuckle. I returned with a fake smile.

"Malakas na malakas pa ako. I don't have any sort of illness. I'm healthier than before. Thank you for your concern," he replied sarcastically

"Really? Physically, you look fine but mentally, I doubt it."

His lips twitched. He finished the wine in his glass then looked at me seriously.

"Let's cut to the chase. Bakit mo ako pinatawag dito?"

He loosened up a little by reclining back on the sofa. "I want to help you."

"In exchange for what?"

I know this man is by far, the greediest man ever existed. I know for a fact he wants something in return.

He smirked. "Sa ilang taon kong naging governor, marami na akong natulungan na mga tao. Mula sa mahihirap, mga kaibigan, mga kapwa ko na nasa posisyon, even lawyers like you. I've dealt with all kinds of people. I made their life-"

I arched my brow. "Miserable?"

"You're mistaken," he corrected

"Am I?"

He leaned closer without breaking eye-contact. "Hindi mo pa alam kung anong kaya kong gawin. It seems to me like you're curious."

I swallowed hard. My whole life. I've never come close to someone who's in power, a politician...but the rumors were true. Even if he doesn't say anything, his presence was enough to keep someone's toes on the ground. He always makes sure his presence is known. At first, he can be a great ally but once you betrayed him or once he's done with you, he can easily end your life in just a snap of his fingers. He can be the worst enemy.

"Hindi na bago sa pandinig ko ang apelyedo mo. Your father, Atty. Benjamin Lopez, was a very well-known lawyer. A great one too. It's quite unfortunate how he died in a car accident," he sighed in dismay

I frowned. His voice sent chills down my spine when he mentioned my dad. "How did you know him? My dad would never want to associate with someone like you," I said firmly

A soft chuckle escaped his lips. "Like I've said, he's a well-known lawyer. Basta magagaling, kilala ko."

As far as I can remember, dad never mentioned anything to me about him or the people he worked with then I realized I was young back then but also curious. I just hope they didn't have history with each other.