This is a work of FICTION. All characters are used in FICTITIOUS manner.
---
"Aray!" Manang's voice echoed in the whole house.
"Teka lang kase Manang. Jusko naman. Papunta na si Kuya Tommy." I panickly said.
"Saan ko kaya'n!" (Hindi ko na kaya!) sigaw niyang muli.
"I know. Ganito, inhale tapos exhale." Hindi ko alam, pa'no ba to?!
"Hindi to madadaan na pa-inhale exhale mo Irene!" asik niya sakin.
"Pigilan mo muna. Pakiusapan mong sandali lang" I told her.
"Gaga, desisyon ka? Anong magagawa ko kung gusto na niyang lumabas! Napakatagal naman, bwisit na Tommy to!"
We are in her room right now. Tahimik akong nagbabasa kanina nang bigla siyang sumigaw kaya pinuntahan ko. Manganganak na pala!
"Sa susunod please lang wag mong paalisin ang asawa mo lalo na pag malapit ka nang manganak. Ako yung kinakabahan sayo"
She asked Kuya Tommy to get something in her office earlier. I don't know what that is pero hindi ba pwedeng ipagpaliban na lang muna?
Kami lang ang nasa mansion. Kuya Bongbong and Liza went for a check up and Mommy and Borgy went with them. Some of our maids also are on leave. Hindi pwedeng bumaba na kaming dalawa lang dahil natatakot ako na baka madulas o mahulog si Manang lalo ngayon na nagpapanic ako.
"Thank goodness you're here now" napahinga ako ng maluwag nang pumasok si Kuya Tommy at agad binuhat si Manang.
"Get the bag Irene" he told me so I did.
Sumunod ako sa sasakyan at tumabi kay Manang sa back seat. Sumasama ang mukha ko sa tuwing humihigpit ang pagkakahawak niya sa kamay ko.
Ano ba naman to!
When we got in to the hospital, they immediately assisted Manang to the emergency room. I am patiently waiting outside because Kuya Tommy went inside with her.
I am waiting for my family since I already informed them. Dinig na dinig dito sa labas ang pagsigaw ni Manang.
Few minutes later, Kuya Bongbong came to me. "Calm down, ading. Kumusta?" he held my hands because I am still trembling. Pati ako nate-tense eh hindi naman ako ang manganganak!
"Wala pa ring balita. Where's Mommy? Where's your wife?"
"Ay hala ka, oo nga pala!" napalakas ang boses niya at bumalik sa pinanggalingan niya kanina.
Did he just leave them?
When he came back, he's with Mommy, Borgy and he's assisting Liza. "Sorry nakalimutan ko may kasama pala ako" he told Liza. Pero sinamaan lang siya ng tingin nito.
Mommy sat beside me and Borgy sat on my lap. "Sa sobrang taranta ng Kuya mo, iniwan kami sa labas. Ano na lang kapag si Liza na ang nanganak" she whispered that made me chuckle.
After a few moment, a nurse came out from the ER. "Pwede ko po bang makuha ang mga gamit ng bata" she uttered so I gave her the bag.
"How's my daughter? My apo?" Mommy asked.
"Ligtas pong nakalabas ang bata at lilinisan na lang, lilipat no po si Maam sa private room maya-maya. Excuse me po." she said and went back inside.
---
Pabagsak akong umupo sa sofa nang makapasok kami sa kwarto kung nasaan si Manang. She's still sleeping, I think she passed out after giving birth.
The door opened and Kuya Tommy came in and a nurse is behind him, pushing the hospital cart where the baby is.
Mommy, Kuya Bongbong and Liza immediately went to them. When they're done, I stood up and looked at my nephew. He's adorable. I held his tiny hands and he's giving a little smile to us. Of course my camera didn't let that go away.
When Manang woke up, we gave her the baby so she can breastfeed him.
The room was filled with joy because of a little bundle of blessing named Michael.
Few hours passed and it's starting to get dark. "Finally!" I exclaimed when Greggy entered the room. I've been waiting for him.
Since walang gustong umuwi at papunta naman si Greggy dito sa hospital, pinabili ko na siya ng pagkain dahil gutom na gutom na ako, kanina pa.
"Another blessing, thank you Lord!" Kuya Bongbong also said before getting the food from Greggy.
Natatawa niya kaming tiningnan bago pumunta sa'kin at hinalikan sa pisngi. "This is for you" bulong niya at binigay ang isang paper bag.
I opened it and started to eat. He went to Kuya Tommy, "Pwedeng pakarga?" turo niya sa bata.
"Sure, just be careful. Marunong ka ba? Here let me show you" he said and taught Greggy the proper way to carry the baby.
Silence enveloped the whole room because we are all eating— well except for Greggy and Kuya Tommy, obvy.
When he's getting the hang of it, he spoke. "Love" pagtawag niya sakin. All the attention went to the him. "Gusto ko rin ng ganito" he said referring to Baby Mike.
I choked on my food because of what he said. This jerk! He really said that in front of my family! Napaka-casual pa ng pagkakasabi niya ha.
Pinanlakihan ko siya ng mata. I can literally hear their chuckles. Jusko naman pati si Mommy tumatawa.
"Tita diba gusto mo ng panibagong apo?" he even asked that to Mommy.
"Why not? The more apo, the merrier" she giggled. Seriously Mommy?
I kicked Greggy's feet and he looked at me with a smirk on his face. Pinagsisihan kong ginawa ko yon.
"Oh, pag nahulog ko to, kailangan nating palitan"
That made everyone burst to laughter. I rolled my eyes and just continue to eat. Ramdam ko ang pag-init ng pisngi ko pero hindi ko na lang sila pinansin.
---
"The baby is healthy and there's nothing wrong so you can go home two to three days from now. O siya, mauna na muna ako, I still have to check other patients. Congratulations once again" Dra. Balintec said before leaving.
This is our second day here in the hospital. Kakarating nila Mommy dahil pinauwi namin sila kagabi. Kami naman ang uuwi ngayon.
"Let's go love" Greggy pulled my hand.
"We'll go now. Bye" I told them.
When we got in to the car, I slapped his arm. "Ikaw, huwag kang nagsasabi ng kung ano-ano sa harapan nila Mommy!"
I didn't had the chance confront him last night since we're not alone.
"What?" he chuckled. "Wala namang masama sa sinabi ko diba?"
Dahil sa inis ko ay nanahimik na lang ako. When we reached the mansion, I immediately went to my room and locked it. Bahala siya sa buhay niya.
Pagkatapos kong maligo, hindi na ako nagulat nang makita ko siya sa loob ng kwarto. I should hide that key somewhere else now. He's looking fresh since he just took a bath also.
"I'm hungry. What do you want to eat? Papaluto ko" he said but I ignored him.
I went to my closet to get dressed before settling down in front of my vanity mirror.
"Love" pagtawag niyang muli. But still, no response from me. "You won't talk to me huh" I heard him said. I saw him through the mirror, he stood up and walked towards the door. He looked at me with his brows furrowed before closing the door.
I rolled my eyes before continuing my thing. When I went downstairs, I found him playing with Borgy and my dogs.
Wait. Borgy is here? Who took him home? He's in the hospital earlier. Hinanap ko kung sino ang kasama niyang umuwi at nakita ko si Liza sa kwarto nila.
"Oh, you're here?" pagtawag ko ng atensiyon niya.
"Yeah, may pinarereview sa aking kaso. Hinatid kami ng kuya mo, nagpumilit sumama si Borgy" she explained.
I nodded before telling her that we'll just be downstairs. I don't want to disturb her anymore so I left her there.
"Tell your Tita we'll eat" dinig kong bulong ni Greggy kay Borgy pagpasok ko ng kusina.
Borgy ran to me and pulled the edge of my shirt. "Tita, let's eat"
"Alright." I said. " Wow cake. Saan galing?" I sat in front of Greggy while Borgy sat beside him.
I am waiting for a response from Greggy but he didn't even look at me. "Did you bought it Borgy?" I asked the kid.
He shook his head. "Tito Bonget did po"
Oh, I see. Greggy fed Borgy without looking and talking to me.
Talaga ba Gregorio?
I plan on teasing him so I pulled my seat closer to the table. I extended my legs and touched his feet. It travelled up to his knees then to his lap.
I felt him stiffen so I looked at him. He's staring at me darkly.
"Tito food ko" Borgy tried to reach his hand. It was left on the air.
"Sorry" he cleared his throat and continued to feed the kid. He glared at me when he heard my chuckles.
Hay nako Gregorio. Tsk, tsk, tsk.
---
After days of waiting, nakauwi na sila Manang.
"Careful" pag-alalay sa kanya ni Kuya Tommy.
Mike is peacefully sleeping on her chest. "Aray! Wag mo akong masiyadong galawin, masakit yung tahi ko!" asik niya kay Kuya Bongbong nang tumabi ito sa kanya.
"Nakapanganak na't lahat, ang sungit pa rin. Sana hindi ganito si Liza pagka-panganak." bulong naman ng isa bago hinawakan ang kamay ng bata.
"Mommy where did he came from?" Borgy asked as he caress his brother's face.
"He was developed inside Mommy's tummy" his father explained. "You can't understand now but soon you will"
"Just like Tita Liza? Because Mommy is like her before. There's a baby inside their tummy? Is that why their tummy is like a watermelon?"
We are just watching him get curious about things. "Parang ganon na nga" Kuya Tommy answered.
Bumaba siya sa pagkaka-kalong sa ama at pinuntahan si Liza. "When will I see the baby Tita? I will have another playmate now"
"Soon. We'll meet him soon." ginulo ni Liza ang buhok niya.
"How about Tita Irene? She doesn't have a baby?"
Matunog na ngumisi ang katabi ko kaya siniko ko agad. "Shut up" I whispered.
"Oh, wala pa akong sinasabi ha" he said.
A smile was drawn on their faces. Nagpipigil din ng tawa si Manang.
'Kalma Irene, bata yan. Bata lang yan. Pamangkin mo yan' I thought and took a deep breath.
"Why, do you want your Tita to have a baby now?" Kuya Bongbong asked.
Talaga naman!
"Yes po, so I'll have more playmate"
I stood up. "Gusto niyong kumain? Nagugutom kayo diba? Tara!" pag-iiba ko ng usapan at pumunta sa kusina. I can still hear their laughter. Pamilya ba talaga tayo? Lagi na lang akong dinadaot jusko.
---
We had a great time taking care of Baby Michael. Halos wala nang umaalis sa bahay. We are taking turns para hindi masiyadong mapagod si Manang. Even Liza is enjoying, parang nagpra-practice daw siya.
"Kami na muna diyan Imee, go get some rest" Mommy told Manang. She's so restless. I know she's very hands on but we're here to help her.
Good thing she followed Mommy. Kinuha niya ang bata kay Manang at hinele para makatulog. Si Manang naman ay nahiga na.
Minutes passed and I think Michael fell asleep now, but Mommy is still swaying him.
"Do you want to try it?"
I looked at Mommy upon hearing her question. I never held a new born baby, they are so delicate that I am afraid to carry them. Kahit si Borgy noon ay hinintay kong lumaki ng kaunti bago ko nakarga. The thought of 'one wrong move and I might let go of them' scares me.
"I might wake him up Mommy" is all I can answer.
"Hindi. Malalim na ang tulog niya. Come here."
I had no choice when Mommy passed him to me. Shit! Paano to?
"Relax. He's not going to fall. Assist his head like this." she showed me what to do.
A smile was flastered on my face when I am carrying him. So this is how it felt. This feels amazing.
"See. Nothing is wrong. Where's your camera, I want to take a photo of you." she held my cheeks.
"Mommy wag na" I said but was taken back when there was a flash of camera. I looked at the door and it came from Greggy's phone.
"It was supposed to be a stolen shot, my bad" he chuckled. He walked towards Mommy, "Good afternoon Tita" aniya at bumeso. Pagkatapos ay lumapit siya sa akin at hinalikan niya ang pisngi ko. "Hi love. Bagay mo"
I scoffed as an answer. "Bakit ang aga mong umuwi?"
"Nabo-bored ako sa office, wala akong ginagawa, so I went home." umakbay siya sakin at pinagmasdan niyang matulog si Michael.
"Come sit down here Irene para hindi ka mangawit." Mommy offered the space beside her.
Greggy fixed the pillows so I'll be comfortable, then he sat beside me. Nagrereklamo pa ako dahil napakalapit niya sakin, baka magising si Mike.
After experiencing it, I decided to put him down. Sakto namang pasok ni Kuya Bonget. Tinampal ko ang kamay niya nang akmang bubuhatin niya ito. "Kaka-lapag ko"
Sumimangot siya at pumunta kay Greggy. Nag-kwentuhan sila at pinapagalitan sila ni Mommy sa tuwing napapalakas ang kanilang boses.
---
"Agawid tay ba didiay Ilocos tun birthday ni Daddy?" (Uuwi ba tayo sa Ilocos sa birthday ni Daddy?) I asked.
"Saan siguro nga eksakto nga birthday ta intayo didiay LNMB. Ngem wen, agawid tay Ilocos, saan tay laeng agbayag. Timmawag da gamin, adda kano insagana da para tun kaaldawan ni Daddy yo" (Hindi siguro eksakto na birthday kasi pupunta tayo sa LNMB. Pero oo, uuwi tayo sa Ilocos, hindi mga lang tayo magtatagal. Tumawag kasi sila, may hinanda daw para sa birthday ng Daddy niyo.)
"Tapos dakayo, nu nudtoy kayat yo pag-selebraran birthday yo." (Tapos kayo, kung saan niyo gusto mag-celebrate ng birthday niyo) turo ni Mommy samin ni Kuya Bongbong.
Naramdaman kong may umakbay sakin. "Agsabay kami nga agbirthday Mommy. Tapno maymaysa a selebrasyon. Ditoy tu latta Manila'n" (Magsasabay kaming mag-birthday Mommy. Para iisang selebrasyon na. Dito na lang sa Manila) Kuya Bongbong said.
"Nagdagsen ta imam!" (Ang bigat ng kamay mo!") asik ko sa kanya. "On your birthday or my birthday?" I asked when I felt lightness on my shoulder, but his arm is still there.
"Yours. Sama mo na rin doon birthday ni Daddy, tatlo tayo, iba lang yung celebration sa LNMB." he answered.
"Alright. I'll tell my assistant to prepare and plan it" Mommy uttered.
"Wag sanang masiyadong bongga Mommy" Kuya Bongbong.
Mommy stood up and tooke her phone out. "Of course" her lips curved a smile then then she walked away.
"Bonget, duda ako sa 'of course' ni Mommy" bulong ko. Our sight is still on the way she took.
"Pampalubag-loob lang ata yung 'of course' na yon. Pag si Imelda ang nag-plano, paniguradong Imeldific lahat" he said that made us both chuckled.
---
When the night falls and I am now on my bed, Greggy spoke.
"We're going to Batangas next week, do you want to come?" he asked. I was about to answer when he talked again, "Ah, no, scratch that. You're really coming with me. Hindi pwedeng hindi"
Ayan, desisyon na naman siya.
"You're going to ask me but you're the one who's going to decide for me. Are you nuts?"
"Eh kinukulit ako ni Mommy. Kuya George and Ate Gabriela came home the other day so they decided to go on a family vacation. And they are asking you to come." he explained.
"Kasama ako? Bakit?"
"Of course, what do you expect. You were accepted in the family a long time ago. At tsaka hindi ako sasama doon kung wala ka."
Sa akin pa talaga nakasalalay pagiging kompleto ng pamilya nila ha.
"Ikaw ang mag-paalam kila Mommy. Kailan ba?"
"We'll leave the day after tomorrow. We'll stay there for five days. Ako na ang bahalang kumausap kay Tita, pero bukas na lang. Let's sleep. I'm so tired." he yawned.
---
The next day, nagulat ako nang magsi-datingan ang apat na sasakyan. Who could that be? Wala namang umalis sa amin ngayon. But I am familiar with the sound of Greggy's engine. Sino yung iba?
"Love!" bati niya nang maka-pasok siya. I can see his family behind him.
Wait what? His whole family?
Nang yumakap siya sakin, I took that opportunity to ask. "Bakit binitbit mo ang buong pamilya mo?" I whispered on his ears.
He chuckled. "Sasama daw sila eh."
"Irene? May tao yata anak, can you go see--"
"Imelda!" Tita Emma's voice echoed in the house. "Oh I'm sorry, may baby pala"
"What a surprise! It's nice to see you" bumeso si Mommy sa kanya.
"We decided to drop a visit since it's been a while. At ngayon na kompleto kami" turo ni Tita Emma sa mga anak niya.
"Oh, that's good. Pasok kayo, pasok. You're just in time, the dinner is about to be serve" Mommy told them.
"Actually we also bought something" Tita showed three trays so Mommy asked our maids to bring those in the kitchen.
Umakyat ako para kunin ang cellphone ko sa kwarto ko. But my brother is in the stairs, eating banana.
"Mamamanhikan na?" he asked.
I slap his arm that made him chuckle. Hindi ko na siya pinansin at tumuloy na sa kawarto.
I stayed in my room for a while then suddenly, sumilip si Liza. "Kakain na Irene" she said. Tumayo na ako at sumabay sa kanya.
Greggy pulled the chair for me as I sat down. While having our meal, walang katapusang chikahan ang naganap.
"Siya nga pala, nandito na rin naman kami. We are going to Batangas tomorrow and we would like to take Irene with us. Would that be okay?" Tita said.
Binitbit niya buong pamilya niya para ipag-paalam ako, grabe.
"Of course. How long will you be gone?" Mommy asked.
"Five days" si Tito ang sumagot.
"Sure. I know my daughter will be in good hands" Mommy said and the meal resumes.
"See, walang kahirap-hirap" Greggy whispered.
After the dinner, Borgy was so happy since he has playmates. Kuya George's two kids and Ate Gabriela's daughter is playing with him in the garden. Nakikipag-habulan din sila Athena sa kanila. They're having fun.
Si Gwen ang nagbabantay sa kanila. "Ate can we bring them?" she asked, referring to my dogs.
I looked at her. "We can. But I don't think Tita will allow us, since we're going to the beach" I chuckled.
"Yeah right. Maybe next time"
Pinuntahan niya sila Tita na nasa sala. The boys are having their session near the pool. By session, I mean drinking session. Pasimuno ang kapatid ko.
"Guys, don't drink too much" Tita Emma warned them when she went out with Gwen.
Before midnight, they decided to go home. "We'll go now. Thanks for having us" paalam ni Tito. He's not drunk like Kuya Tommy and Kuya Austin, Ate Gabriela's husband.
"We'll visit again some other time." Tita said. "Kids, say babye na to them" she told her grandchildren which they obliged immediately.
When they left, Greggy helped me packed my bag. "Bakit yan? That's too revealing." reklamo niya.
"Anong gusto mo, mag-baro't saya ako sa dagat?"
"Oo na. Takot ko lang sa'yo" he rolled his eyes. "Mag-dala ka ng cover up or sarong mo para sa mga yan" utos niya.
"Eto na, boss" I showed him some clothes, mostly see-through, mesh and sarongs.
"Anong silbi ng pagcover up mo kung see-through naman pala. Why don't you just bring rash guard"
"What am I, a kid?" asik ko sa kanya. Mas conservative pa kaysa sakin, ano ba yan.
"Fine" he defeatedly sighed. "You can wear anything you want, it's a private beach house anyways."
Wala rin naman na siyang magagawa, kahit hindi siya papayag, dadalhin at susuotin ko ang gusto ko. He may be the boss of their company but he can't be just bossing around me like that. Oo, batas ako.
He also packed his things after mine. When we're done, we went to sleep now.
---
"Manang bulodek man ta pagpunas na." (Manang pahiram nga ng pamunas niya) I told Manang, asking for the hand towel on her shoulders. I am just going to wipe Mike's lips.
"Inka kuma agdigosen, tumalaw kay sa damdaman" (Maligo ka na, aalis na yata kayo mamaya) she said.
"Aguray ka lang," (Wait lang" I uttered while swaying Mike to sleep.
"Saan ka agbagbagkat ti ubing a bassit idi diba aya?" (Hindi ka nagbubuhat ng maliit na bata noon diba?) she looked at me. "And now you're enjoying."
I just ignored her and continue to do my thing. When Mike fell asleep, I put him in his crib then head to my room.
I'm just in time, kakalabas ni Greggy sa banyo. I didn't spend much time in the bathroom, I don't want them to wait any longer.
And since we're going to the beach, I just wore a scrunchy cross back beach dress and paired it with a gladiator flat sandals in ankle level.
"Ang ganda mo naman" Greggy whose back is leaned on the door commented.
"Of course" I chuckled. "Aalis na ba tayo?"
"They told me we'll wait for them here para sabay-sabay tayo sa biyahe. Our things are already in my car. May ilalagay ka pa ba?" he asked so I shook my head. "Let's go wait for them downstairs" he told me.
We found Kuya Bongbong at the edge of the staircase, he's on his phone but his sight were diverted to us as we go down.
"Naks, naglapsat tay ading ko" (Naks, ang ganda ng ading ko) he offered his hand. Kinuha ko yon at ini-ikot niya ako.
"Kalma, siyak lang etoy" (Kalma, ako lang to) I teased him.
Few minutes later, we heard car horns. They're here now. Nagpaalam na kami kila Mommy.
"Mag-iingat kayo ha. Call us whenever you can" Mommy told me as she kiss my cheeks.
"Yes Mommy. Bye" I gave back the kisses to her and to my siblings.
Three cars were waiting for us outside. The pick up truck is loaded with stuffs. Bumaba mula roon si Kuya George. "Can you put this in your car. There's no room for it in ours, pati kila Gabriela at kila Mommy." he handed a bag to Greggy.
"What's that?" he asked.
"Floating devices and water toys for the kids."
"Sa back seat mo na lang ilagay, there's more free space there" he told his brother. We're just bringing our bags and some foods anyways.
Nang okay na lahat, we get on the road. Tita Emma, Tito Luisito and Gwen took the lead, followed by Kuya George , Ate Gabriela and then us. They didn't bring drivers so the men were driving in each car.
"You can sleep if you want." Greggy told me. "We'll get there in 2 to 3 hours. I'll wake you up later"
"No, I'm good. Hindi naman ako inaantok. Besides, I'll keep you accompany so you won't get bored."
He looked at me and smiled. "Eyes on the road please, huwag sakin" I added. He grinned before diverting his attention on the road.
When I felt hungry, I reached for some chips at the back seat. "Ah" I uttered, motioning him to open his mouth which he did.
I keep on feeding him since he's driving. Few more miles then we'll reach the beach house. "Here take a sip." inilapit ko ang water bottle ko kanya.
Palubog na ang araw nang makarating kami. I was so speechless when I saw the place. Wow. This place is breathtaking.
This place is giving me a Santorini vibe with white and blue as the color theme. It is soothing in the eye and the interior designs are astonishingly elegant.
It has luxurious villas nestled on top of a cliff. When we went inside, we were greeted by the staffs, they are so nice and welcoming.
This place is not crowded since they only accommodate few number of guests. They also put a lot of plants and flowers all around the place. This is amazing!
"Gwen will be staying in your room" Tito Luisito told us.
"Dad naman!" Greggy immediately objected.
"Sa room niyo lang may extra na bed. Would that be okay with you? Irene?" he then asked me.
Greggy squeezed my hand but I didn't look at him. "Sure Tito, no problem"
He was about to whinne but I glare at him. "Shut up. Don't make it a big deal" I whispered.
We went to our respective rooms to rest for a while. Indeed there are two bed inside. The other one is bigger though.
I went straight to the balcony to see the view. The scene here is even better. It gives a perfect overlooking view of the sea and mountain ridges.
The room has a floor-to-ceiling window that give the best panaromic view of the sea.
The place owns a private swimming pool but you can also go down the beach if you prefer it.
This place is perfect!
Greggy went to bed so as Gwen. "Doon ka nga kila Mommy, Gwyneth!" he threw a pillow to her.
"Bingi ka ba Kuya? Dito nga lang ang may extrang bed." she threw the pillow back to her brother. "Ah alam ko na, big deal na big deal sayo kase hindi mo masosolo si Ate Irene 'no?" she then laughed.
"Shut up!"
Napailing na lang ako bangayan nila. I went to our bags to get something before going to them.
I threw some chips to the both of them for them to stop throwing pillows at each other.
Nag-kwentuhan lang kami bago kami tawagin ni Ate Gabriela sa baba.
We had our dinner in buffet style. It was so fun. I never felt out of place with them.
When night time came, they decided to use the swimming pool. Our first dip on our first night here.
I wasn't suppose to swim but I don't want to kill the fun. Nakikisama na nga lang KJ pa? Hindi ganon ang bonding.
"Come on Irene, ang sarap ng tubig!" Ate Gabriela shouted.
Then suddenly a hand was in front of me, "Let's go" Greggy said, offering his hand.
I looked around and sila Ate Gabriela and Ate Adriella--wife of Kuya George, palang ang nasa tubig.
Tito Luisito is with his grandkids, nasa may hagdan sila ng pool, hinihintay mabombahan ang mga floating devices na ginagawa na nila Kuya George at Kuya Austin. Tita Emma and Gwen went to their room to get something.
I took his hand to stand up. "We'll just change" paalam niya bago kami pumasok sa loob. On our way up, we saw Tita Emma and Gwen going down, carrying a lot of towels.
"Saan kayo? Nandito na ang towels ha" Tita told us.
"Magpapalit lang Mommy, babalik din kami agad" he said.
"Alright, bumaba kayo agad ha" she uttered before leaving us.
When we entered our room, I took off my dress, leaving only my undergarments.
"Prepared ka ha" Greggy noticed. He's looking something in my bag. He stood up and gave me clothes that made my face frowned.
Kinuha ko yon at tiningnan. A dolphin short and a robe. Kaya pala umakyat pa kami para mag-palit when we can just take off our clothes in the restroom downstairs.
"Why" I dramatically said. "Gabi naman na, and there's no other people down there except for your family."
"Giginawin ka. Sige na, wear it" he commanded.
I had no choice when I heard the finality in his voice. I wore the short and the robe. Para akong bata na pinapagalitan ng conservative na magulang.
"Okay na?" I emotionlessly asked when I'm done.
"That's better" he said before pulling me outside. I scrutinized him from head to toe while I'm behind him. He's wearing a beige board short and nothing for his top.
"There they are. Come on here you two" Kuya George said when they saw us.
Tapos na nilang pahanginan lahat at nasa pool na ang mga ito. The kids have their own floaters and Gwen even have a flamingo style floater. They also have beach balls and more inflatable toys that was scattered in the pool.
It looks like we owned the whole place because the other guests isn't here. Isang couple lang naman ang kasama namin dito at nasa kabilang villa sila.
Nilapag ko sa mesa ang kinuha naming pagkain bago tinanggal ang roba ko. I didn't wait for Greggy anymore. Una kong nilubog ang mga paa ko bago tuluyang lumusong sa tubig.
It was all fun. No dull moments. Bago pa lumalim ang gabi, bumalik na sila sa taas para makapag-pahinga, pero nagpa-iwan muna kaming dalawa.
"Go ahead Gwen, mauna ka nang maligo" he told his sister. "Tell us when you're done."
Gwen nodded and went inside. I am sitting at the edge of the pool while he's still on the water. He went in between my legs and stayed there. "Nilalamig ka na ba?" he asked.
I shook my head. "No."
After minutes of waiting, tinawag na kami ni Gwen. Nauna na akong naligo habang nagliligpit si Greggy.
"Go. I'm done" I told him when I went out of the bathroom.
I walked towards our bag to get clothes. Wala akong mahanap na pantulog dahil nasa pinakababa ata kaya kinuha ko na lang yung white long sleeves polo ni Greggy. It turned to be an oversize one for me.
I also prepared him clothes before going back inside the bathroom, he didn't lock the doors. "Damit mo" I informed him when he looked at me. "Don't mind me here, magpapalit lang ako at magbru-brush"
I saw him gulped when I took off my robe to put on the polo. He shook his head and he turned his back at me which made me smirk. Ayan, ganyan nga, magpigil ka.
I'm still brushing my teeth when he went out of the shower room. Madilim ang tingin niya sakin pero hindi ko pinansin.
Good thing they have a hair dryer here so I used it to dry my hair. Tinutuyo ko ang buhok ko habang nagdadamit si Greggy.
He was about to hug me from behind but I took off the plug and avoided him. "Matutulog na ako. Finish your thing here and sleep afterwards" I told him and went outside.
I heard him groan. "Why are you doing this to me" he whispered but I still heard it.
Nakita kong tulog na si Gwen kaya inayos ko ang pagkakakumot sa kanya. I took his phone and put it on the table, para hindi niya madaganan.
After that, I went to our bed to rest. Isang side cabinet lang ang nasa pagitan ng kama ni Gwen sa amin. Humarap ako doon at tinalikuran ang pwesto ni Greggy.
When I heard the bathroom door opened, I closed my eyes and pretended to sleep.
"Irene? You're asleep now?" I heard him asked but I keep on pretending.
Naramdaman kong humiga na siya sa tabi ko. I refrained from reacting when he effortlessly pulled me towards him.
"Goodnight love" he whispered before kissing the side of my forehead.
Then suddenly, I felt somnolent and the next thing I knew, I was swallowed by drowsiness.
---
I reached for my phone when I woke up. I looked at the time and it's just six a.m. I stood up and get out of bed. Tulog pa ang mga kasama ko kaya pumunta ako sa balcony.
I looked around and I felt delighted to see the view. I am just in time for sunrise. I went back inside to get my camera. May nakita rin akong chocolate drink kaya kinuha ko rin iyon.
I washed my face and gargled quickly first before going back outside.
The aurora over the skyline was too beautiful not to photograph. It is giving me a spectacular horizon view of the sea and the sky.
This dawn in the early morning gives me tranquility, such an idyllic setting.
While drinking, I checked the shots I took, it was all perfect. I suddenly flinched when someone held my waist.
"You're early" he stated. He planted kisses on my shoulder.
"Hmm-mm." I hummed. "How 'bout you? Why are you up so early?"
"Naramdaman kong wala akong katabi" he said that made me chuckle.
We just watched the sun rise and let it greet us by its sun rays.
"Pst!" pagsitsit samin ni Kuya George sa baba. "Gisingin niyo na si Gwyneth, breakfast is ready"
Tumango lang si Greggy bago kami pumasok. "Ako na ang gigising, magba-bangayan na naman kayo niyan" I told him. He just stood beside me as I wake Gwen up.
"Gising na Gwen, kakain na daw" pagyugyog ko sa balikat niya pero hindi pa rin nagigising.
"Itabi mo, ako na" Greggy said. I was hesitant at first but eventually gave him the floor.
"Hoy Gwyneth wake up!" marahas niyang niyugyog ang balikat ng kapatid niya. "Gumising ka na kung ayaw mong mag-isang kakain mamaya"
Dahil sa malalakas na pagyugyog sa kanya, nagising na siya. "Ang pangit naman ng bungad ng umaga ko"
Pinitik ni Greggy ang noo niya. "Bunganga mo ha, umagang-umaga"
I held his shoulder, "Go to the bathroom, mag-hilamos at magmumog ka muna" I told him.
"Ew, you haven't washed your face and your mouth and you are talking to us. Disgusting!" Gwen exclaimed jokingly.
Papatol pa sana si Greggy pero tinulak ko na siya sa banyo. "Bangon na, you'll feel sleepy again if you will keep on laying down." I turned to Gwen.
She stretched her arms first before doing so. When Greggy went out, Gwen followed. We just waited for her before going down.
We had our breakfast in the terrace of the villa, overlooking the sea and the mountain. We discussed what we are doing today and decided we'll go down to the beach.
Since we are at the top of a cliff, we will trek our way down. The pathway is safe according to the staffs, so we have nothing to worry about.
We'll just enjoy the beach in the morning and will go back here right after and in the afternoon, we'll have our dinner at the shore. The staffs will prepare everything.
This will for sure be exciting.
After our breakfast, we went to out respective rooms to change into our swimwears. Matinding pilitan na naman ang pagdadaanan ko panigurado.
I picked a black crisscross one piece bikini and wore it. I also got a white boho mesh dress to somehow cover it up.
When I went out of the bathroom, Greggy immediately scanned me. "Ah-ah, before you say anything, let me just remind you that you told me I can wear anything I want."
"Sinabi ko yon?" he asked and I gave him a nod. "Hindi ko ba pwedeng bawiin?"
"No." matigas kong sabi.
I examined them. Gwen is wearing a high-neck halter crop top and paired it with a short. While Greggy, he's wearing a white shirt and black short.
Suddenly the door opened, "You guys ready? Let's go" Tito Luisito said.
We went downstairs and saw them waiting for us. The three kids are all ready with their swimsuits.
"Ayaw mag-rash guard kaya papapakin na lang yung sunscreen mamaya" Ate Adriella who's beside me said.
I chuckled. "They wanted to feel the sun."
"True. They can't do that back home" she uttered.
Kuya George and Ate Adriella's children-- Marialatheia is carrying a pail, a shovel and a beach ball while Aumyrrh Zethroy is carrying a water gun.
Ate Gabriela and Kuya Austin's child, Myreah Khyrille is wearing her unicorn floater.
We began our trek and the staffs led the way. I am holding Theia's hand because she approached me earlier.
Getting there was a bit hard since the road is rocky but it was fun. The clear blue water of the beach is worth it.
They set the big umbrella that will serve our shade and prepared the things we brought.
Kami ni Gwen ang nagbabantay sa tatlo habang busy ang mga magulang nila sa pag-aayos. They went straight in the water so we had no choice but to let them. We had nothing to worry about getting our skin burn since we already applied sunscreens earlier.
It was indeed relaxing here. The three wouldn't stop playing. They are full of energy!
Tuwang-tuwa sila nang mabuo yung sand castle. Halos lahat ata kami ginawa ang lahat para hindi iyon masira. We even helped them built it.
Before lunch time, we went back to the villa. And right after we had our lunch, we took a rest. We'll go back there this afternoon.
We're currently here in our room. Greggy is sleeping and Gwen is doing something in her laptop. I am so bored so I reached for Greggy's phone. I went straight to his album only to see it full of my face.
Most of them are stolen shots. May mga tumatawa, kumakain, at meron pang natutulog ako! Seriously?
Well it's a tie. I have a lot of photos of him sleeping in my phone. Nakanganga pa nga.
When the clock striked at five thirty, we went in the shore.
Bumungad samin ang nakaset-up na lamesa na pinapalibutan ng ilaw, hindi pa nakasindi dahil maliwanang pa.
"Dito lang ako sa kabila, the scene is nicer over here" I told Greggy. Pinipigilan niya akong pumunta sa kabilang parte ng kinalalagyan namin. I can't wait for him anymore, sumunod na lang siya kapag tapos na ang ginagawa niya.
"Irene sandali lang!" sigaw niya pa pero hindi ko na pinansin. I am carrying my camera on my hand. Isinukbit ko ang lace sa leeg ko para maka-akyat ako sa bato.
The rock formations here are great for pictures. Hindi na pag-aari ng beach house pero okay lang daw puntahan.
Inayos ko ang pagkakabuhol ng long sleeve mesh top ko pati na rin ng see through pants cover up ko. I'm just wearing a two piece bikini inside so I have to secure them dahil papagalitan na naman ako ni Greggy.
While taking pictures, someone spoke from behind. I thought it was Greggy but to my dismay, it's someone I do not know.
"Hi Miss, you're alone?" he asked. I think he's near my age. I distant myself from him.
Ano ba 'to, bigla-bigla na lang na sumusulpot. I don't even know where he came from and that creeped me out.
Shit pa'no to. I'm on top of a rock and so he is. I keep on walking back because he's walking towards me.
I almost fell but he catched me. "Careful, matutulis pa naman ang mga bato diyan"
"Get away from me" I uttered and pushed him. Mukha siyang matino pero nangingibabaw yung pagiging manyak niya.
"Ouch, ako na nga ang nagmagandang-loob, ako pa ang pinapaalis" he acted like he's hurt.
Pakialam ko sa'yo siraulo.
"I'm Ezekiel by the way." he offered his hand.
"No one's asking. Get lost"
"Ooh, feisty. I like you Miss" in a blink of an eye, he's already in front of me. "I would love to invite you over dinner" I flinched when he touched my face.
Ang tigas naman ng bungo nito.
I gathered all my strength and punched his nose. "Fuck! What is your problem, woman!" he shouted and touched his nose that is now bleeding a bit.
"I told you to get away from me didn't I?"
"Hindi mo ba ako kilala? I am the son of the most respected person here!"
"Wala akong pakialam kahit anak ka pa ng kung sinong santo. Binabastos mo ako, anong gusto mong gawin ko?" I said.
"I will sue you! You will hear from my lawyer. I will sue you!" paulit-ulit niyang sabi.
"How 'bout I'll sue you first?" nangibabaw ang boses ni Greggy.
"And who the fuck are you? Hindi ka ba tinuruan ng mga magulang mo na huwag sasabat sa usapan ng may usapan?" inis na baling nito kay Greggy.
"Hindi ka ba tinuruan ng mga magulang mo na huwag mambastos ng babae? You're disrespecting her, I saw everything." I saw Greggy's face turned darker.
"Anong pakialam mo?"
"May pakialam ako lalo na kapag girlfriend ko ang binabastos mo. I would love to punch you right now but I know that her punch is strong enough to shake that little head of yours." he walked towards me.
"I will still sue you. Look what you did to me!" pinakita niya ang dumudugong ilong niya.
Deserve.
"Come on dude, stop talking baloney. Go ahead sue her, let me just tell you, my sister is a lawyer, her sister-in-law, which happened to be my cousin is also a lawyer, do you want to talk to them? Get lost now or do you want another punch?"
"Humanda kayo" banta niya pa bago nag-martsa paalis. I saw a resort nearby, doon ata siya nanggaling.
"Love, are you okay?" Greggy's face became soft while talking to me. He's checking everything, my face, my hands and my body.
"Chill. I'm all good. Stop worrying too much" I assured him.
"Are you sure? Wala bang masakit sayo? Saan ka niya hinawakan? May galos ka ba?"
I looked at my fist that is now turning red. "Wala"
"I told you to wait for me. Papaano na lang kung hindi ka marunong sumuntok? Pano na lang kung hindi ako pumunta agad? Hindi ka na sana kasi nagsusuot ng ganyan."
After making sure that I'm okay, panenermon ang matatanggap ko?
"Tara na nga. Ang dami mong sinasabi" I pulled his hands and head back to our table.
"Kuya can I have an ice?" Greggy asked his brother.
"What happened?" agad na lumapit sila Tita Emma samin.
"She punched someone, ayan nakapagpa-dugo ng ilong. Binastos kasi" pagsumbong ni Greggy.
"By the look of your hand, you really threw a big punch. Nice moves" nakipag-apir sakin si Kuya George at Kuya Austin.
Sinamaan sila ng tingin ni Greggy bago dinampian ng ice ang kamay ko.
"Okay ka lang ba Irene?" Tita asked me.
Eto kasing si Greggy masiyadong OA, sinabi nang hindi masakit. He's making them worried.
"Okay lang Tita, wala 'to, hindi naman masakit" ani ko para hindi sila mag-alala.
Suddenly, Greggy received a call so he stood up, before walking away, sinamaan niya ako ng tingin. "Diyan ka lang, wag kang tatayo"
I watched him walk away while talking to someone on his phone. Sumusulyap pa sakin habang nagsasalita.
"Ate can you take pictures of me later?" Gwen asked when she sat beside me. We still have a lot of time to roam and take pictures around since our food isn't ready yet.
"Sure. Ask Ate Gabriela and Ate Adriella too para may kasama tayo."
"Bet." she said and went to them.
Tumayo ako para puntahan si Greggy. "It's up to her if she'll file a case. Pero kung ako ang tatanungin niyo kakasuhan ko talaga siya." kalmado pero ma-awtoridad niyang sabi.
"Ang tigas ng ulo mo" he covered the phone when he saw me. "She's here. Let me just ask her." sabi niya sa kausap niya bago ini-mute ang tawag. "Tumawag yung ama ng lalaki kanina. Nakikiusap na huwag nang mag-sampa ng reklamo laban sa anak niya. What's your decision?"
Ang bilis naman? Nakapag-sumbong agad ang bwisit na yon?
"Sakit daw talaga siya sa ulo, if I were you, file a case" he added.
"No. Huwag na"
"What?" he exclaimed. "Why not?"
"That's just a waste of time. Yan pa ba ang pagtutuunan mo ng pansin? We're here to relax and you're just giving yourself a headache if you do that." I said.
He deeply sighed. "Ano pa bang laban ko sayo" he unmuted the call, "Walang sampahan ng kaso na magaganap. Be thankful that we're on vacation" then he hang up.
"Gwen wanted to take pictures around, do you want to come?" I asked and intertwined our hands together.
"After what happened? Of course I'll go with you. Ngayon na ba?"
"I think so, while waiting for the food."
We head back to the table and asked Gwen if we'll go now. Nagpa-iwan doon sila Tito Luisito, Kuya George at Kuya Austin dahil nag-iihaw sila ng barbecue.
"Tita Irene!" may bulol na bata ang tumawag sa pangalan ko. I looked back and saw Myreah running towards us. Pinaghiwalay niya ang kamay namin ni Greggy at siya ang humawak sa kamay ko.
Natatawang kinuha ni Greggy ang camera sa leeg ko. "Ako na yan"
The kid pulled me, overtaking everyone. "Myreah, don't pull Tita too much." habilin ni Ate Gabriela
When Theia and Aumyrrh saw us, they rushed towards us and pulled me too. Jusko! I can't cope up with these kids' energy.
"Smile for the picture love!" saad ni Greggy na tumatawa. He's taking photos again.
When we found a good spot, kanya-kanya na silang pose.
"Theia, tayo ka here anak." Ate Adriella instructed her daughter. These kids know how to pose in front of a camera. They project alluring aura.
We had a never-ending photoshoot since there is a lot of picturesque and selfie-perfect spots in the whole resort.
The sun was already setting so we watched it. I witnessed the sun's journey for today. From sunrise to sunset. Such an exquisite thing to look at.
"Look over here Greggy and Irene" pagtawag ni Tita na may hawak ng camera. Umakbay sakin si Greggy bago kami nag-pose sa camera.
When we head back to our table, we were just in time for the appetizer.
"This moment deserves a toast" Tito Luisito raised his wine glass so we also did. But before we could bump each other's glass, Tito was looking at someone so the attention went there. "Mag-juice ka muna bata" he told Gwen.
Gwen scratched the back of her head before switching his drink. Theia giggled at her. They also have this tiny wine glass poured with juice.
"Cheers to this growing familia!"
"Cheers!" we said in chorus.
"Hijo can you take a photo" Tita gave the camera to one of the staff. We fixed ourselves and smiled.
"Okay ready po, in three, two, one." then we heard a shutter. "Another one po, three, two, one. Wacky naman po maams and sirs. Three, two, one"
"Oh, this is Irene's camera. Kindly send these pictures after our vacation hija" Tita told me so I said yes.
Nang mag-dilim na, isa-isa nilang sinindihan ang mga ilaw. From the lanterns to the fairy lights.
Wow, it's even better at night time. Plus the light coming from the moon itself.
After our dinner, the guys decided to drink. Nag-baon sila ng alak.
"Don't drink too much" bulong ko kay Greggy bago siya tumayo.
"Noted boss" he winked at me before kissing my cheeks.
Good thing nagpa-awat ang mga bata kanina dahil gusto na namang maligo. Nauto ng mga magulang nila na may hihila daw sa kanila sa tubig dahil madilim na, ayun natakot.
I am browsing the photos in my camera when a kid went to me. Isinisiksik niya ang katawan niya para maka-upo sa kandungan ko.
When Theia settled herself, she grabbed the camera on my hand, siya na ang nagpipindot ngayon.
Kumunot ang noo ni Ate Adriella sa ginawa ng anak niya pero tumango lang ako para sabihing okay lang.
"Ooh, I look pretty here."
"Aumyrrh didn't smile, sayang"
"Myreah look oh"
She keeps on commenting on every picture. Kaya naman ang dalawa, naki-usyuso na rin. They keep on pushing one another just to see the photos, nagka-umpugan pa sila Aumyrrh at Myreah.
"Stop fighting na, I'll just extend my arms so we all can see it" suway ni Theia.
Ateng-ate na siya sa kapatid at pinsan niya at the age of five. On the other hand, Aumyrrh and Myreah is just three years old.
Bago pa lumalim ang gabi at bago pa maparami ng inom ang mga lalaki, bumalik na kami sa villa.
Ibinagsak ko ang katawan ko sa higaan nang makarating kami sa kwarto. I didn't do much but damn, I felt so tired. Unti-unting bumibigat ang talukap ng mata ko kaya hinayaan ko na lang ang sarili kong tangayin ng antok.
---
I woke up when I felt someone is combing my hair with their hand. Minulat ko ang mata ko at bumungad sa akin si Greggy na nakangiti.
"Good morning my love, how's your sleep?" he sweetly uttered.
"Good morning self, how's our sleep? I love you self" I heard Gwen mocked her brother. I chuckled when I peered at Gwen who's so focused on her phone but she keeps on mocking what Greggy said.
"Good morning Gwen" pag-agaw ko ng atensiyon niya.
"O-oh, good morning Ate. Don't mind me here, tuloy niyo lang yan" aniya at tumalikod sa amin.
He cupped my face for me to look at him. "Good morning" I said. He smiled and planted a kiss on my nose.
Nang bumaba kaming tatlo, tulog pa raw ang mga kasama namin pero handa na ang breakfast. While waiting for them, Gwen and I played with the dogs and cats here. Alaga ng may-ari ng resort.
"Good morning!"
"Ang aga niyo namang tatlo!"
Isa-isa silang bumaba at bumati. "You're just late. Anyway, may nakausap akong bangkero, pumayag silang mag-bangka tayo. I rented five boats, yung isa extra" Greggy informed them.
Kaya pala wala siya dito kanina.
We had our breakfast and afterwards, we went to the shore.
---
"Ikaw nga takot na takot kanina" banat ko.
"Well obviously the boat is shaking, what if tumaob yun"
"Sus, ang lakas ng loob mong mag-renta ng bangka, takot ka naman pala"
We're at the terrace of the villa, the rest, they're in their room, ready to sleep now.
I am wearing a knotted sunflower mock buttons cami dress while Greggy is just wearing a short.
We finished halfway through the wine that we're drinking when he went inside. When he came back, he was carrying a portable speaker and playing a song that was so loud.
"Where did you get that? Nambubulabog ka ng tao" uttered.
"Oh, sorry. Hiniram ko sa loob" he chuckled and reduced the sound.
He placed the speaker on the beach bench beside me. "Come" he offered his hand.
I gave him a confused look but he just pulled my hand for me to stand up.
He positioned both of my hands on his shoulder and his hands went to my waist. He started swaying me that made me smile. We danced to the rythm of the sound.
When the next song was played, sinabayan ko ito.
"Imagine me and you, I do
I think about you day and night, it's only right"
He placed his index finger on my mouth to stop me from singing. He then sang the next part.
"To think about the girl you love and hold her tight
So happy together"
I smiled before continuing the song together.
"If I should call you up, invest a dime
And you say you belong to me and ease my mind
Imagine how the world could be, so very fine
So happy together
I can't see me lovin' nobody but you
For all my life
When you're with me, baby the skies'll be blue
For all my life
Me and you and you and me
No matter how they toss the dice, it had to be
The only one for me is you, and you for me
So happy together"
Napatingin kaming dalawa sa taas nang makarinig kami ng hagikhik. Turns out it was Gwen and Tita, they're both in the balcony of our room.
"Ipapa-frame ko 'to" dinig kong sabi ni Tita, hawak-hawak niya ang camera ko.
"Masanay ka na kay Mommy. She gets sneaky everytime she can" he whispered on my ears.
"I told you, mambubulabog yang speaker mo" I chuckled. I heard footsteps coming from the stairs, alam ko na agad kung sino sila.
Isa-isang lumabas ang mga kapatid niya. "Uy, may pasayaw si mayor" ani Kuya George.
"Nasaan ang mga anak ninyo?" tanong niya sa mga ito.
"They're sleeping. Ako nga ang pipili ng kanta" Ate Gabriella went to his phone.
Maya-maya pa ay bumaba na rin sila Tita at Gwen, hinihila nila si Tito.
Naging parang dancefloor ang terrace dahil samin. Good thing malayo-layo ang villa ng ibang bisita kaya hindi kami nakaka-istorbo, I really wish we're not.
"Pano ba yan, makiki-ngiti muna ako sa relasyon ng iba." Gwen stated while taking pictures. "But who cares, being single is amazing. Less stress 'di ba Daddy?"
"That's my girl" sabi naman ni Tito at nakipag-apir.
"I thought you have a boyfriend. The one who got my car into accident?" Greggy asked.
Gwen frowned. "Not a word about that cheater, please."
"Ooh, okay miss maam. Saklap naman ng sinapit mo " he chuckled and teased his sister.
He pulled me away from them afterwards. "We have no alone time as long as we're with them"
Sumandal ako sa railings at pinagmasdan ang madilim na karagatan na tanging buwan lang ang nagbibigay liwanag dito. "We'll be going home to Ilocos after Daddy's birthday" I told him.
"Sama ako."
"Na naman?" I chuckled. "Uuwi kami before my birthday. Ilang araw lang kami doon"
"Kahit na. Sasama pa rin ako."
"How about your work?"
"Dad is here, he can manage the company" maangas na sabi niya.
Nang lumalamig na, pumasok na kaming lahat. I closed my eyes the moment my back was laid on the bed.
---
We did nothing much the next day. We decided to take a break from water but that plan was ruined by the kids.
Aumyrrh fired his water gun at us so did the two girls. Kinuha ko ang dalawang water gun sa mesa at ibinigay ang isa kay Gwen, kanina pa kami binabasa ng mga bata, pati na rin mga magulang nila.
"Gregorio, halika dito!" sigaw ni Gwen sa kuya niya. He's doing something on his laptop.
"Just a minute. I have to finish this"
"Hoy, sinabing walang magdadala ng trabaho dito" Ate Gabriela went behind him. She's carrying a tiny pail with water. I already knew what she's up to.
Napansin iyon ni Greggy kaya inilayo niya ang laptop niya. "You'll get this wet. Sandali lang."
"I'll give you enough time to save that and put it away." itinaas niya ang hawak niyang timba.
He immediately typed in his laptop before placing on top of the table. He then ran behind me and used me as his cover. Bwisit na to!
They started splashing water to him. And because he's behind me, nadadamay ako. Sa sobrang paghila niya sa damit ko ay nasira ito.
I glared at him and started firing the water gun in my hands. Laking pagsisisi ko nang makahanap siya ng malaking timba. Kumuha siya ng tubig at ibinuhos iyon sa amin.
Tito Luisito and Tita Emma is just watching us. Then suddenly, bigla silang nabasa, I don't know who to blame because everything was so fast. Kabilin-bilinan pa naman nila kanina na huwag silang isasali.
"Oopsies" nagtakip ng bibig si Theia. I think she did it.
Unti-unti silang nagtago sa likod namin nang tumayo si Tito. Lumapit siya sa may gripo at binuksan ito. Pinulot niya ang hose at itinutok sa amin.
May hose? Nagtitiyaga kami sa maliliit na water gun tapos may hose?
Kanya-kanyang sigaw ang lahat at iniiwasan ang hose. Nagtago ulit sila sa likod ko nang huminto ako kaya naabutan sila ni Tito.
"I'm sorry if I have to do this." sabi niya nang makalapit sakin.
"P-po?"
My question was answered when he pushed me in the swimming pool. Isinunod niya ang mga nasa likod ko. Hayop na Greggy to, kasama siya sa nagtago, ginawa na naman akong pansangga!
Hindi rin nagtagal ay umahon na kami at nagbanlaw.
---
Greggy is taking a bath and Gwen is combing her hair in front of the mirror. I am busy trying to send a message to Mommy, mahina ang signal dito dahil nasa tuktok kami ng bundok.
Napatingin ako sa pintuan nang bumukas ito at pumasok ang tatlong bata na may dala-dalang laruan.
"Tita are you busy?" tanong ni Theia, nasa likod niya ang kapatid at pinsan niya.
"Hindi naman. Bakit?" I placed my phone on the table.
"Can you play with us po? Mommy is taking a bath pa eh"
"Sure, come here." I patted the bed.
There was this big smile on their faces as they put their toys on the bed.
But what I didn't expect is that, instead of toys such as tea party playsets and dollhouses, what they have are board games, puzzles, science toys, some challenging, educational and brain teaser games.
Playing with these kids needs a lot of thinking just to beat them. I am impressed. "Looks like you mastered these already" I noticed.
"Kind of" Theia giggled.
I am happily watching them play with Gwen, wala out na ako eh. Suddenly, Greggy went out of the bathroom. Bahagya pa siyang nagulat nang makita ang tatlo sa kwarto, nakatalikod sila kaya hindi nila nakita si Greggy.
He's looking at us with a smile on his face also. Tumayo ako at pinuntahan siya. I hugged him from his side and sniffed him. Ang bango!
"Why are you smiling?" I asked.
He glanced at me before looking at them. "You being happy makes me happy. Are you having a good time with my family?"
"I am having an amazing time with them, especially with you" I cupped his cheek. He was about to kiss me but I avoided his face. "May mga bata" I whispered to him.
"Ah, right" he scratched his head.
We went to them and watched their games. Sumali pa rin kami kahit alam naming matatalo kami ng mga bata.
---
Today is our last day here. We'll leave tomorrow afternoon.
The ladies had a plan to surprise the boys with a casual dinner prepared by ourselves. I'm just waiting for them to call me here in our room. Hindi ko alam kung paano kami magpapaalam nang hindi nila napapansin.
"Love, ayaw mo ba talagang sampahan ng kaso yung lalaking yon?" he asked out of nowhere. Yakap-yakap niya ako at nakaunan pa sa dibdib ko na parang ayaw niya akong pakawalan.
"Hindi ka pa ba nakaka-move on doon? I told you that's just a waste of time and money. Sino ba siya para pagka-gastusan mo? So stop it already love, I am not harmed or anything"
"I am just wondering kung nagbago ang isip mo. But yeah, sino ba siya."
Maya-maya pa ay may kumatok sa pinto, pumasok dito si Ate Gabriella at Tita Emma.
"Pwede ba naming hiramin si Irene, may gagawin lang kami" paalam ni Ate Gabriella.
Agad kumunot ang noo ni Greggy at ibinangon ang ulo. "Why?"
"May gagawin nga kami" ako ang sumagot.
"Sasama ako" aniya at bumangon.
"No" I immediately said. "Just stay here."
"Don't be such a thwart. Hindi naman kami magtatagal. Ibabalik namin si Irene na buong-buo. Masiyado kang clingy" asik sa kanya ni Ate Gabriella.
"Let's go Irene" Tita offered her hand so I took it.
Nang makalabas kami ng kwarto, ramdam ko ang pagbuntot sa amin ni Greggy.
"Saan ba kasi kayo pupunta at ayaw niyo akong isama?"
"Hoy, pst. Dito daw tayo Gregorio. Malalagot tayo sa Mommy mo kapag sumuway tayo" tawag sa kanya ni Tito.
Bumaba ang mga bata dala-dala ang mga laruan nila. Inilapag nila sa lamesa ang mga ito.
"Para may pagka-abalahan kayong apat. Walang aalis dito ha" banta sa kanila ni Tita. "Kapag talaga may sumunod samin sinasabi ko sa inyo ha"
"We'll take the kids. Let's go." she added.
"Eh bakit si Aumyrrh kasama?" we heard Tito Luisito shouted when we walked away.
They just ignored it and continued to walk. We went to the seashore and started to pick up dry woods and leaves to use for the bonfire.
"Adriella, okay na ba yung mga pinabiling pagkain?" Tita asked.
"Yes mom, naipalagay na sa kabilang villa, they let us use it for a while." she responded.
"That's good."
We also gathered logs that will serve as chairs for tonight. "Gwen, yang mas malaki na lang dito" Ate Gabriella commanded.
"Okay na ba to Irene?" tanong ni Tita sakin.
I scanned the place and it was perfect. "Okay na Tita"
After that, we went back to the villa to prepare the foods. There are hotdogs, marshmallow and mostly are seafoods. The staffs bought it since they have access to the market here.
"Ang tagal niyo naman, saan ba kayo galing?" tumayo si Greggy nang makita kaming parating.
They really played the games that were given to them.
"Bumalik ka dito Greggy, we're not done yet. Hindi ako papayag matalo dito" singhal sa kanya ni Tito.
"Ayoko na Dad, pu--" he stopped when I left him there. "Love teka lang"
Sasama na naman to jusko. "Magbabanyo ako, diyan ka lang"
---
"Saan tayo pupunta?" paulit-ulit na tanong nila.
We are on our way to the shore and it's starting to get dark but the lanterns around us became our guide.
The bonfire was already lit up by the staffs so mas madali na itong makita.
"Uy, bonfire!" Kuya George exclaimed. "You prepared this?"
"Yes Daddy!" magiliw na sagot sa kanya ni Theia.
We formed a circle around it and started to grill. Kumuha ako ng isang stick ng hotdog at itinutok iyon sa apoy. While waiting, I leaned my head on Greggy's shoulder.
Tawanan at kwentuhan ang namayani ngayong gabi. We had so much fun.
I looked at Greggy when he gave me a shole. "Para di ka lamigin" he said. I am just wearing a violet satin sleeveless and short coordinates. "I brought that just in case"
"Thanks"
He smiled and he also gave me the marshmallow he was cooking.
"Walang babalik sa loob hangga't di nauubos ang mga pagkain ha" Tita joked.
I drank on my beer after I pinched a bit of the octopus they grilled. Pinagalitan pa nga ako kanina ni Greggy nang magbukas uli ako ng pangatlong bote ng beer. But ofcourse, he didn't win the arguement.
"Mommy I'm getting sleepy na" I heard Aumyrrh whispered to his mom.
"Come here Aumyrrh" I said which he immediately obliged. His mom can't attend to his needs right now since she's chopping the food for the three of them and his dad is busy drinking.
'Thank you' Ate Adriella mouthed so I smiled in return.
Lumipat ako sa foldable chair sa tabi ni Greggy bago kumalong sakin si Aumyrrh. He rested his face on my chest and he fell asleep so easily.
Few minutes later, Greggy also leaned his head on my legs then he looked at me. "Naiinggit ako" aniya at nginuso ang bata.
Natawa ako sa sinabi niya at mahinang tinampal ang ulo niya. "Yung iniinom ko nga" paghingi ko sa kanya.
"Tama na. Just drink water or juice. Kanina ka pa naga-alak"
I scoffed and turned to Ate Gabriella who's beside me. "Ate can I have a bottle of beer" I asked since she's nearer to the cooler. But instead of granting my request, she looked at her brother before saying "Baka ako pagalitan niyan. Gusto mo ito na lang?" binigay niya sakin ang bagong lutong hotdog, pampalubag-loob ata.
I had no choice but to get it. "Thank you Ate" sabi ko na lang bago bumaling kay Greggy na tumatawa.
"Huwag kang tatabi sakin mamaya ha" banta ko.
"Eto naman, hindi mabiro." Kinuha niya ang beer na iniwan ko kanina sa kinauupuan ko at ibinigay sakin.
Konti na nga lang ang laman, ipagkakait pa.
"Ano pang gusto mo? Do you want another hotdog? How 'bout marshmallow? Or do you want the fish or shrimp? Nauuhaw ka pa ba?" sunod-sunod na tanong niya.
Nagkatinginan kami ni Ate Gabriella at sabay na natawa.
"Beer" I joked.
His face fell, "Love, except for beer. Three bottles is already enough"
"Just get me some water then" sagot ko kaya tumayo siya.
When he came back, may dala rin siyang plato at nakalagay doon ang lahat ng klase ng pagkain na meron. Tubig lang ang pinakuha ko, dinala na lahat ng pagkain.
"Open your mouth love" sabi niya at inilapit ang tinidor na may pagkain.
"Ang dami niyan. I can't finish all of that" I uttered.
"Mauubos natin to. Hurry up, open your mouth, ako na ang magpapakain sayo"
Maka-hurry up naman to. Atat na atat.
Later on, "Tama na, busog na ako" I told him.
"Last na to" he showed me the empty plate. Naubos ko yon? Ko dahil hindi ko pa siya nakitang sumubo.
I had no choice but to eat the last one. Sayang naman.
We decided to go back when it's already eleven. Paubos na rin yung kahoy kaya bumalik na kami sa villa.
Before we entered our room, we dropped by in Kuya George and Ate Adriella's room to put Aumyrrh down.
After that, we went to our room. "Go sleep now. Ako na mag-aayos ng gamit natin." he stated.
Tumango na lang ako dahil inaantok na rin naman ako.
---
We thanked the staffs before leaving the resort. Their service is very comely.
"We're on our way home Mommy" I talked to my mother on the phone. I haven't contacted them for days.
"Alright. Ingat kayo" she said before ending the call.
"Sa bahay tayo didiretso para ibaba yung ibang gamit, okay lang ba sayo?" Greggy asked.
"Sure" sagot ko at kinuha ang camera ko. Malapit na kami kaya hinahanda ko na to.
When we arrived, I helped him with all the things. Mga floating devices na hindi na natanggalan ng hangin at mga cooler.
After ibaba ang mga gamit, hinila niya ako sa kwarto niya para mag-pahinga. I don't feel sleepy at all but I just laid down.
"Kakarating lang namin ng bahay, paaalisin mo na naman kami?" umay na sagot ni Greggy sa kausap niya. "Sige na, sige na. Titingnan ko, huwag mo akong kulitin." aniya bago ibaba ang tawag.
"Why?"
"Thiago is inviting us to the clubhouse."
Us? "Edi pumunta tayo"
He threw a glimpse at me. "You really want to go? Nabanggit din niya na pupunta sila Dawn"
"Then we should go. Ngayon na ba?"
"Later at six."
I looked at the clock and it's already four fifty. "Ganto na lang ako" I told him, referring to my outfit. I am wearing a cream trouser and a polo collar rib-knit tee.
"Okay na yan. Huwag kang masiyadong nagpapaganda" he said before going to his closet.
When he's all done, we went downstairs. They're in the kitchen so we went there.
"May lakad kayo?" Tita asked.
"Yeah. We will not eat here. Pupunta kami sa clubhouse nila Santiago." he answered.
I walked towards Tita Emma and hand her my camera. "You can have this for the meantime Tita. Transfer all the photos you want. Kukunin ko na lang po right after"
"Oh, sige. Aalis na ba kayo ngayon?"
"Yes Mom. Dadaan pa kami sa bahay nila Irene"
"Mag-ingat kayo ha. Bye!"
Hinila na ako paalis ni Greggy at nag-drive papunta sa bahay. I have to show up to Mommy even just for a while.
"Mommy adda ditoy tuy buridek mon!" (Mommy nandito na ang bunso mo!) sigaw ni Kuya Bongbong nang pag-buksan niya kami ng pinto.
"You're too loud. Where's Mommy?" I uttered.
"Secret walang clue." aniya at tumatawa.
Tinulak ko siya at pumasok na sa loob. I found my Mommy going down the stairs and she immediately went to me when she saw me.
"How are you? Did you enjoy your vacation?" she asked.
"I'm good Mommy and so is our vacation. By the way, we'll leave din right after, may pupuntahan lang kami 'my"
Tumango siya kaya pumunta rin ako sa kwarto ni Manang para tingnan ang mga pamangkin ko. Nasaktuhan kong gising si Michael pero dumedede kaya hindi ko na inistorbo.
Umalis na rin kami pagkatapos. Nakarating kami sa club nila Thiago, six thirty na.
"I thought you guys weren't coming!" sigaw niya dahil malakas ang tugtog.
I sat down beside Dawn and poured an empty wine glass with a liquor.
"Wow fresh from vacay" Dawn uttered.
"How'd you know?" I asked because I didn't tell it to them.
"Wala, nasagap ko lang" she chuckled.
Habang lumalalim ang gabi, padami ng padami ang dumadating na tao.
I drank the liquor on Greggy's shot glass because I got curious of its taste. But damn! That was strong! I looked at the bottle and it was Bacardi. Ang init sa lalamunan.
"Bro, they are asking if you could sing us a song" Felix told Greggy.
I looked around and he's right, they are chanting Greggy's name and requesting for a song. I didn't know that he's kind of 'sikat' here. Yeah I get that he's friends with the owner but by looking at everyone, parang ginagawa niya na ito noon pa.
"Ayoko." sagot niya at umakbay sakin.
"Come on bro, isang kanta lang"
He looked at me before drinking another shot. Tiningnan ako nila Thiago at parang sinasabing papayagin ko.
"Go" I said.
"Huh?"
"I want to hear you sing too."
"You always hear me sing"
"Please, love" I pleaded.
He heaved a deep sigh before standing up. Nagpalakpakan ang mga kaibigan niya nang pinuntahan niya ang tumutugtog na banda.
The spotlight was on him when he climbed up the stage. I grabbed my cellphone to film him. Ngayon ko lang siya makikitang kakanta sa harap ng maraming tao.
"Good evening" bati niya. Agad na nagtilian ang mga babae kaya natawa pati sila Dawn. "I would like to dedicate this song to my favorite person ever, the love of my life" he's looking straight at me, no one else but me.
"Umuwi na kayo may nanalo na!" sigaw ni Thiago sa ibang naririto.
I looked around and noticed some of the women frowned but the others didn't care.
The band started to play and I found his song familiar until he started singing.
"Why do you build me up, buttercup, baby
Just to let me down, and mess me around?
And then worst of all, you never call, baby
When you say you will, but I love you still
I need you, more than anyone, darlin'
You know that I have from the start
So build me up, buttercup, don't break my heart
"I'll be over at ten," you told me time and again
But you're late, I wait around and then
I went to the door, I can't take any more
It's not you, you let me down again"
He never broke his eye contact with me. It seems like he doesn't care about his surroundings especially the ladies that were screaming his name like he's some kind of an artist.
"Hey, hey, hey baby, baby, try to find
Hey, hey, hey a little time and I'll make you mine
Hey, hey, hey I'll be home
I'll be beside the phone waiting for you
Ooh ooh ooh, ooh ooh ooh
Why do you build me up, buttercup, baby
Just to let me down and mess me around?
And then worst of all you never call, baby
When you say you will but I love you still
I need you more than anyone, darlin'
You know that I have from the start
So build me up buttercup, don't break my heart"
I am smiling while filming him. Still, he's staring at me and appreciation and love is seen in his eyes.
"You were my toy but I could be the boy you adore
If you'd just let me know
Although you're untrue, I'm attracted to you all the more
Why do I need you so?
"Hey, hey, hey baby, baby, try to find
Hey, hey, hey a little time and I'll make you mine
Hey, hey, hey I'll be home
I'll be beside the phone waiting for you
Ooh ooh ooh, ooh ooh ooh
Why do you build me up, buttercup, baby
Just to let me down and mess me around?
And then worst of all you never call, baby
When you say you will but I love you still
I need you more than anyone, darlin'
You know that I have from the start
So build me up buttercup, don't break my heart"
They kept on screaming and chanting his name but even just a single glance, he didn't gave any.
I'm sorry ladies, I won. His mind, his heart and his soul.
"Thank you everyone" he said when he's done. Agad siyang bumalik sa tabi ko at napuno na naman ng tuksuhan.
"Grabe ka Araneta. Wala ka man lang tiningnan na iba. Nakakaselos!" Thiago dramatically held his chest.
"At least pinagbigyan tayo" sagot naman si Felix sa kanya.
"Sino kayong dalawa para pagbigyan ko? At lalong sino kayo para kantahan ko? I did that because Irene told me to" aniya na parang napipilitan.
"Napipilitan ka pa sa lagay na yan ha" I whispered.
"Such a whipped boyfriend. Cheers to our dear friend Araneta." Felix raised his shot glass.
Napahawak sa sentido si Greggy dahil sa pinaggagawa sa kanya ng mga kaibigan niya.
"Cheers!" I also raised my glass so the others followed.
Natapos ang gabing iyon dahil hindi na makabangon sila Thiago. Well, as for Greggy and I, we still managed to go home.
"Who cares if I'm a whipped. I can even tell everyone that you are mine you make me the luckiest person in the world" he boastfully said when we're ready to sleep.
"Hush now. Itulog mo na yan. You might wake everyone up"
"Okay love" he said and he closed his eyes.
I sighed when he already fell asleep. I stared at his sleeping face.
"I am so glad and thankful for your existence. You always make my heart warm and happy. You matter so much to me, I love you" I whispered before planting a kiss on his cheek.
After that, the next thing I knew, I also fell asleep.
*******************************************************************