KISSING MY KRYPTONITE
(A/N • UNEDITED: This story is a work of fiction, as is made clear in yet another chapter. It may or may not be realistic, but it is all based on my imagination. Research has been done to fairly represent certain points, but I can't guarantee that everything is precise and reliable so don't rely on it. Happy 1M reads to us all! ♡)
(A/N II: Beautiful people, could you please do me a favor? Please refrain from posting spoilers sana kahit for this chapter lang especially about the revelations t,t kawawa readers na 'di pa nakaka-keep up o nakakabasa, dapat mag-overthink din sila para fair, yup? Thank you!)
"What is he doing here?" nagtataka kong tanong sa mga kasama ko nang makita ko si daddy na naglalakad papasok ngayon dito sa restaurant na kinaroroonan namin, sa unang pagkakataon walang Chanel Velazco na nakabuntot sa kanya.
"This is a family dinner sweetie, he's your father," my mom responds.
"I know mom but Mighty Deev told me he's not gonna make it tonight," I scowl and stand up.
"Nandito ka na, Ezra. Don't think about leaving us here," Cash pulls me back on my seat, I look up to Mighty Deev and glare at her. Alam niyang hindi pa ako handang kausapin si dad, nagdedesisyon na naman siyang mag-isa.
"Hanggang ngayon hindi pa kilala kung sino'ng pumatay kay Davies?" pag-uusisa ni Cash kay Dad, sa buong oras na nilagi namin dito kalahati no'n ay sina Davies at Brent ang diskurso.
"Maraming sumabit na pangalan, even your sister's name was involved throughout the investigation," dad answers, his harsh eyes affixed on me. "The killer is being highly suspected a woman, an evil genius who can outsmart the authorities at every turn and twist."
"His death was really tragic and it's literally gaining an over-abundance of attention because of his prominent name. What logical basis did they have to believe the killer is a woman, Dad?" si Mighty Deev naman ang nagtanong.
"The crime was well-planned, the cctv's were shutdown and the pattern of the murder is too obvious to say the killer is a woman. Davies was stabbed on his own bed, naked, unused condoms were also found at the crime scene. With the number of stabs, malaki ang galit ng gumawa no'n sa kanya."
Dad stares back at me, "Kakilala ni Davies ang killer, according to the details of his house that night, a dinner table was perfectly set up for two people: it was arranged with red roses, violet and blue tulips, tall candles and two flutes of red wine."
Cash nudges my arm, I reach for my glass of water and empty it, "Makikipagkita ka dapat sa kanya that night in his rest house hindi ba? What's going on lately? As far as I know you hate dealing with that guy."
"Sebaztian visited our house twice before the crime, gustong-gusto niyang makausap si Ezra pero nagkataon naman kasing hindi niya nadadatnan ," singit ni mommy.
"Nanliligaw ba ulit 'yon sa 'yo?"
"Watch your mouth, Cash!" nandidiring asik ko, tinapakan ko pa ang paa niyang naka-heels, ginantihan niya ako pero 'di masyadong masakit kasi makapal suot kong knee-high boots ngayon.
"I know why you agreed to meet him."
Natigil ako sa pagnguya dahil sa sinabing iyon ni dad.
"Dad," was all I said, with no plan of entertaining him.
Mighty Deev changed the subject to Brent Laczamana's murder case again, which all of them debated for a few minutes until dad spoke up and told them to depart after our dinner. Naiwan saglit si mommy para bigyan ng kalmadong sermon si daddy dahil sa dessert na in-order niya, diabetic kasi siya at bawal sa kanya ang mga matatamis na pagkain.
Tumayo ako at sumunod kay Cash nang kami na lang ni dad ang maiwan.
"I said stay here, Ezra," dad firmly commands.
Napilitan akong umupo, hindi makatingin sa kanya dahil sunod-sunod na ang pag-irap ko.
"You killed him."
With a blank expression, I look up to meet his stoic gaze. Is he referring to Sebaztian Davies?
"What are you saying dad?"
He takes a sip of his white wine, then sits his glass near the unused gold cutleries, "Possibly if you didn't come late that night with your sister's bodyguards, you're in jail now. No further questions, you killed him."
It took me a long moment to process what he said.
"Are you saying I was set up?" napalunok ako.
"Probably not, I don't even know now Ezra," he massages his temples. "But what I am certain of is that the murderer who intended to end his life was aware that you will be coming over that night."
Kung hindi ko lang alam na ginagawa niya 'to dahil natatakot siyang madungisan ang pangalan niya ay iisipin kong may natitirang pakialam pa siya sa 'kin.
"Why did you go to his place? Let me know why you were there."
"W-wala, I just wanted to talk to him about something," I roll back my shoulders. He seems to be oblivious of my relationship with Rafa, and I refuse to discuss it with him more than possible. Kahit iyong tungkol kay Xiomara ay ayokong sabihin sa kanya dahil alam ko namang hindi niya ako matutulungan kundi makakatanggap lang ulit ako ng dismayadong reaksyon mula sa kanya.
"What is it? Tell me what's going on, Ezra, or I'll assume you're connected to the murderer," his tone deeper, my mouth falls open. Tinatakot ba niya ako? Connected to the murderer?
"Paano niyo nasasabi 'yan ngayon, dad? Gago ako pero alam mong hindi ko kayang manakit ng tao," matigas kong bigkas, tumayo ako para umalis na dahil ayoko nang marinig pa ang sasabihin niya. "With all the people out there that want Sebaztian Davies dead, what makes you think I could do something like that?"
"May kasunduan kayong dalawa to see each other. I also know you loathe that man and would never trust him with your life again, but why would you meet him like that with bodyguards? I couldn't think of any reasonable arguments unless you already knew.."
What he's said has frozen my capacity to walk away from him.
"And that explains everything my security staff told me about your professor being in your condo dressed nothing but your polo shirt!"
Napabalik ako sa upuan ko dahil sa pagtaas ng boses niya na kumuha ng atensyon ng ibang guests dito sa loob.
"I was with the bodyguards because mom told me to, you understand how dangerous your loving friend can be," kalmado kong pahayag, "At ano'ng sinasabi mong alam ko na?"
"Are you dating that professor of yours?"
"I'm asking you dad," kinuyom ko ang mga kamay ko sa ibabaw ng lamesa, bumagsak ang tingin niya roon.
"Do answer my question," palaban niyang sabi as if he's making me choice and I am right, "Answer me o si Cordova mismo ng sasagot niyan dito. I could drag her here right now-"
"Davies ruined her life! Alam ko ang lahat ng panlolokong ginawa ni Davies at ang tatay niya kay Mr. Cordova dahilan para mabaon sila sa utang. He's the reason why Rafa had to make a choice and leave her family to save them! She had to give up everything, face dire circumstances and fight battles that shouldn't be fought by a young girl who was just 8 years old back then but she needed to be for herself and family!"
Nanginginig kong binaon ang muka sa mga palad ko, hindi ko nasaksihan kung paano niya pinagdaanan ang lahat ng iyon sa loob ng sampong taon pero dama ko na 'yung hirap at sakit. Now in my case I have to be stronger for the brave girl who nearly lose everything to make her feel safe because she deserves all the love in this world, I don't want to see her suffering again.
"Tinawagan ako ni Davies noon, pinagtangkaan niya ang buhay ni Rafa. Gusto niyang makipagkita sa 'kin dahil may importanteng sasabihin daw siya tungkol sa kanya."
"At pumunta ka naman? Kung alam mo na ang lahat why would you bother seeing a man who had threatened her life? Paano kung totoo ngang na-set up ka? Nasa kulungan ka na sana ngayon!"
"I want to understand her more," tiningnan ko siya. I grit my teeth as I watch him bemused by what he is seeing now. Davies is his friend kaya malakas din ang loob kong buhay pa naman akong makakaalis ng rest house niya kung sakali mang natuloy ang pagkikita, pinagplanuhan ko naman nang maigi ang pagpunta ko roon,
dahil nagdala pa ako ng bodyguards, nagkataon lang na late ako sa napagkasunduang oras.
"Oh God, Ezra!" nagpakawala ito ng pagak na pagtawa.
At that moment I realized something, my heart just raced so fast with all the thoughts that peered through my mind but that I couldn't sequence.
"You didn't seem baffled by what you heard, and given that Sebaztian and his dad are your friends, I wouldn't be surprised if you're also involved," umiling ako, lalo lamang bumigat ang dibdib ko sa ideyang parte siya sa mga taong nagpahirap sa babaeng mahal ko. Kilala ko siya, ugali niyang idepensa agad ang kanyang sarili lalo kung mayroon talaga siyang pinaglalaban.
"I know you didn't go there to understand her more. Being aware of Sebaztian's threats and the danger ahead, you still ended up going there because you know that asking Cordova won't satisfy you as she's still hiding something from you."
"I trust her, and you have no right to cast doubt on that dahil labas ka na sa 'ming dalawa."
Tumayo na ako because I can't stand hearing more from him now, he does seem to be ready to engage in much more debate, that he will insist on winning in my face.
"I'm afraid you're just blinded with the idea of love. Pinapaikot ka lang ng babaeng 'yan! Break up with her, leave that woman dahil sisirain lang niya ang buhay mo! You never failed to disappoint this family, Ezra! Get your shits together!"
Naghihisterikal na ang loob ko, ginagawa ko ang lahat para hindi sumabog dahil ayoko ng eskandalo.
"Marami ka pang hindi alam," pahabol pa niya, "That woman is dangerous."
"Ano'ng hindi ko pa alam?" mariing baling ko, hinablot ko 'yung susi ng bike ko sa table saka diretsong nakipagtagisan ng tingin sa kanya. "Hindi mo masabi ng diretso sa 'kin dad? Kasi alam mo sa sarili mong may kinalaman ka sa mga nangyari noon at hindi mo masabi sa 'kin ngayon lahat na hindi ka nagmumukang masamang tao."
The color of his face had drained out by the time I knew I had knocked something out of him. With the worst note of disappointment in his voice, he mumbles something before I leave.
"She's got you by the neck...I fear."
The universe is testing us like no other but I'm ready to fight it as long as she's with me. No one and nothing can break us apart. I'm holding on tight to our promises. If I have to make a new promise everyday to myself is that whatever they say against her siya lang ang paniniwalaan at pagkakatiwalaan ko. Nothing is credible hangga't sa mismong mga bibig niya manggaling ang kung ano ang totoo at hindi. She deserves everything and I'm willing to bury my second thoughts and what-ifs just so I can give her the world.
Paglabas ko ng resto naabutan ko pa sina mommy, ang dalawang kapatid ko at ang pinsan namin. If Wren Skeeter is my closest Ymmanuel cousin, mayroon naman akong pinsan na kahit magunaw ang mundo ay hindi ko makakasundo kahit ano'ng subok ko.
"Alpha Vañiel Ymmanuel-Windzon," our cousin stretches her hand to shake Mighty Deev's na katatapos lang din magpakilala.
"Nice name and tattoo, captain," Mighty Deev compliments Alpha's tattoo on the back of her hand specifically to her fingers. She's attired in her uniform and would seem to be exceptionally successful right now.
"Ezra! Alpha is back! Last month pa pala umuwi from Greece, hindi man lang nagsabi!" Cash shouts, Alpha just shrugs quietly. Pinasadahan lang niya ako ng tingin. See? It's been years, she's still the exact same walking iceberg I've known since we were kids.
"Welcome back," payat kong sabi, gustuhin ko man samahan sila pero wala akong oras makipagplastikan at magpanggap na masaya dahil sa pagtutuos namin ni dad kanina.
Nagsalita si mommy na nasa pintuan na ulit ng resto, "I caught your father eating sweets again! Pagagalitan ko lang! Head over inside, ladies!" she looks at Alpha, "Friedrich will no doubt be overjoyed to see my favorite niece again!"
"I need to go, I'll catch up with everyone next time," pilit na ngiti ko.
"Ezra ano na naman ba 'yan?" mukang ayaw pa akong pakawalan ni Cash.
"Ayoko nang bumalik sa loob," tanging sagot ko.
"What happened? Ano'ng sinabi ni dad sa 'yo?" she asks worriedly, "Mighty told me may new girlfriend ka raw ngayon at last! Baka kikitain mo lang 'yon!"
"At last?" singit ni Alpha.
"Hindi na 'yan nagka-girlfriend pa after ni Trina, eh, that's why I'm curious kung sino'ng babae kinababaliwan niyan ngayon," Cash smirks, I take a glance at Mighty Deev who is now walking quickly away from me. Nakakailang atraso na sa 'kin ang hinayupak na 'yon dahil sa kadaldalan niya.
"You broke up with Trina Muego?" tanong ni Alpha, may laman ang pagkakasabi niya roon.
"She broke up with me," sagot ko, wala naman na sa 'kin kapag pinag-uusapan 'yon pero dahil sa tono niya ay hindi ko maiwasang hindi mainis.
She ended our relationship at first, we gave it another try pero ako na iyong nakipaghiwalay sa 'min.
"Why? You cheated?" she adjusts her black necktie while retaining a firm gaze on me, I take a step back when she walks closer with those fearless eyes, "Did you hurt her? If it's then, you're the worst douchebag the world ever had."
Naiintindihan ko ang pinanggagalingan ng mga sinasabi niya ngayon dahil hindi naman magiging kami ni Trina noon kung hindi dahil sa tulong niya.
"I was an asshole before but I never cheated," kalmado kong sambit, wala ng rason para maging apektado, totoo naman kasing gago ako noong mga panahong 'yon.
"Oh, Miss Veneracion! Come in, darling." ipinaghila ako ni Ma'am Kelani ng upuan, wala ng espasyo sa tabi ni Rafa kaya wala na akong choice kundi sumunod.
This is supposed to be a faculty meeting pero dahil hands on ako ngayong summer pa lang bilang bagong SSC President ay nandito ako. Pwede naman akong tumanggi dahil narito na si Rafa as my SSC Adviser pero susunduin ko rin naman siya mamaya kaya inagahan ko na at nagdesisyong makilahok.
"Miss Navaeh and Professor Juke are getting married this year. Mukang mauuna na nga sila sa inyo," tumingin si Ma'am Averie kina Professor Campvell at Rafa.
"If I am meant to be single I'm happy with that," maarteng sabi ni Ma'am Kelani, "The person I like right now is too hard to get, akala niya siguro siya lang cute sa mundo para maghabol ako."
Nagtama ang mga mata namin ni Rafa at hindi ko alam kung bakit, sana hindi niya isiping ako ang tinutukoy ni Ma'am Kelani dahil iniisip ko na 'yon. Ang hirap maging crushable at jowable, buti na lang talaga kinakaya ko, minsan tinatagay ko na lang.
"How about you, Professor Cordova? In five years pa?" nakangising usisa ni Ma'am Averie.
Kung nandito siguro si Arthur, umaasa na naman.
Ma'am Navaeh giggles, "In five years? Kahapon nga lang nahuli kong nagtatakip ng kiss marks 'yan-"
"Navaeh!" awat sa kanya ni Rafa, tumingin siya sa 'kin saglit saka ito nag-iwas ng tingin, namumula ang buong muka niya. "Not those kinds of marks!"
Pasimple na lang akong kumain ng stick-o habang nagpapanggap na hindi nakikinig sa kanila, break kasi namin at nasa labas ang ibang teachers ngayon kaya sila nakakapagbiruan ng ganyan.
"Baka kagat lang kasi ng uhaw na lamok 'yon," ani Ma'am Yvania, mapang-asar. "Mga lamok na 'yan wala talagang pinipiling lugar."
"Prof Yvania is right, she probably got stung by a hungry and wild bug!" makaluhugang kumento ni Ma'am Kelani.
"Or she got burned herself with a straightener?" Ma'am Navaeh utters the famous excuse for hickeys with a playful smile.
Straightener? Hindi naman ako straight, gender bender ako, eh.
"And you put make up over it?" Ma'am Averie smiles.
"I have a sensitive skin and some kind of lotion broke me out real bad," Rafa excuses unsteadily, "That's it."
Sa akin naman inilipat ni Ma'am Kelani ang makahulugang tingin, napatikhim tuloy ako, "How about you, Ezra? I'm seeing red spots there-"
"Kalmot lang 'to ng pusa, ma'am," maayos kong tugon saka inayos ang kwelyo ng suot kong shirt. "Maharot kasi alaga ko sa bahay, eh, minsan masakit talaga ka-bonding."
Nagpaalam si Rafa para mag-cr na sinundan ko, kanina pa kasi masama ang tingin niya tapos pinagkaisahan pang asarin ng mga co-teachers niya.
"Professor Cordova!" sigaw ko, hindi ko siya matawag sa pangalan lang dahil maraming students ang nasa paligid ngayon.
Napamura ako nang bumangga siya sa isang tao, malayo palang ay nakilala ko na agad na si Chanel Velazco iyon. Nahulog ang ibang laman ng box na dala-dala niya dahil sa pagkakabangga sa kanya ni Rafa. The box is full of her personal belongings na tingin ko ay galing sa office niya lahat.
Tumulong na rin ako sa pagkolekta ng gamit pabalik sa kahon.
"Did you resign?" nagtatakang tanong ko, hindi pa tapos ang summer classes, eh. Bakit parang nag-impake siya?
"Mr. Veneracion fired me," tumingin siya sa 'kin saka siya ngumiti, pilit dahil mas nangingibabaw ang panglaw sa muka niya.
Pagkatapos ibalik ni Rafa iyong takip ng box ay walang imik itong naglakad palayo.
"Rafa Eli," Chanel calls her, Rafa stops walking without looking at us. Nagsalita ulit ang dating sekretarya, "Wala man lang sorry?"
Rafa lets out a long sigh before facing her with a blank expression, "I'm sorry."
Nang maglakad ulit ito palayo ay hindi ako agad nakasunod dahil kay Chanel, nagtataka pa rin kasi ako kung bakit siya sinisante ni daddy.
"Why did he fire you?"
"He doesn't like me anymore," she replies sadly, " To work for him."
Ang ganda ng sagot niya, kuhang-kuha 'yung inis ko dahil iba na naman pumapasok sa kokote ko.
Sa kabilang banda, may ganyang tendencies si daddy as a boss. He would lay off people whenever he felt like it because he believes he can always find anyone to replace them.
"I'm sorry to hear you lost your job," I console with a pleasant tone.
"It happens," ngumiti siya, this time it's brighter, "Tama na rin siguro para maalagaan ko si mommy while taking a rest."
Tutugon ulit sana ako pero napakamot na lang ako sa batok at agad na nagpaalam nang makita ko si Rafa sa 'di kalayuan. She's watching over us, baka nadagdagan na naman inis niya.
Naghintay ako sa labas ng comfort room kasi ni-lock niya talaga ang pintuan para hindi ako makapasok.
"H-hey," kinabig ko siya sa baywang paglabas niya ng pinto, walang tao rito banda dahil nag-buzzer na't nagsipasukan na ang lahat sa kanya-kanyang silid.
"What?" mataray niyang asik, pinalo niya ang kamay kong nakayakap ngayon sa waist niya.
"Iniiwasan mo 'ko, are you mad at me?" lumabi ako, humaba ang nguso ko nang bumitaw siya sa 'kin. May kinuha siya sa bulsa ng navy blazer niya saka niya iniabot sa 'kin.
"What's this?" para siyang candy na nakabalot sa makintab na yellow plastic, hindi matigas kasi parang powder na hinulma laman no'n.
"Polvoron," sagot niya.
Ngumiti ako nang marinig ang tawag do'n, nasa dulo na ng dila ko kanina at hindi ko masabi-sabi. Para akong batang binigyan ng candy sa tuwa lalo pa't siya itong wala sa timpla ngayon, siya dapat nilalambing ko.
"It tastes good!" sinubo ko ng buo 'yung polvoron at napatango-tango sa sarap. Ito na yata pinakamasarap na polvoron na natikman ko sa buong mundo.
"Do you want more?" umarko ang mga labi niya, may binunot ulit siyang dalawang polvoron mula sa bulsa niya saka niya binigay sa 'kin.
"Did you make this?" I ask with a grin, binuksan ko ulit 'yung isa.
"Yeah."
"It tastes like a toasted powdered milk," kumento ko habang ngumunguya. "May flour 'to 'di ba?"
Umiling siya, pinanood niya lang ako sa pagkain, "It's made of ashes."
"What? Ashes?"
Ngumiti siya, "Those are the pulverized remains of your women."
Nabuga ko iyong kinakain kong polvoron dahil sa narinig, inirapan niya ako't iniwang umuubo matapos niya akong pagbantaan, "If I see you flirting with others again, gagawin talaga kitang abo, cheese whiz!"
"Wala naman akong ibang babae, eh!" nagdadabog kong sigaw nang makalayo na siya, may mga lumalandi pa rin sa 'kin kahit sabihin kong taken na ako kaya ako na iyong umiiwas at naga-adjust. "Rafa Eli Cordova loyalist 'to hanggang dulo! Don't leave me here! Love!"
Nakasimangot akong bumalik ng office pagkatapos kong linisin ang sarili ko. Nabawasan ang sama ng loob ko nang abutan niya ako ng water bottle, ang rupok ko tangina, palibhasa kasi she's my sun and moon na, eh.
"Thank you for doing your best in the hearing today," I say softly after putting on her seatbelt, I hold her hand and intertwine it with mine on her lap.
"They deserve to be expelled, I also issued a warning to them. If something awful happens to you again because of them, I will not hesitate to come on their necks," pirming pahayag niya, nakadungaw lang ito sa bintana at nanumbalik na naman ang pagiging tahimik niya.
Akala ko kanina tinotoyo lang siya pero 'di nagtagal ay napansin ko ring may nagbago sa kanya ngayon. Hatid-sundo ko na siya araw-araw, at ngayon lang siya naging tahimik ng ganito. Dapat pa nga nagce-celebrate kami ngayon dahil successful 'yung expulsion 'nung limang saboteurs, bilib na bilib nga ako sa kanya kanina, ganap na ganap ito bilang bagong SSC Adviser ng unibersidad.
"Ez.." taimtim na tawag niya sa sa 'kin, hindi ko muna inandar ang makina ng sasakyan.
Seryoso akong humarap at hindi binitawan ang kamay niya. Nangungusap ang mga mata ko, puspos ng pag-alala. Kanina pa ako naghihintay na magsalita siya dahil ilang ulit ko nang tinanong kung ayos lang siya pero hindi ko nakukuha ang totoong sagot.
"Okay ka lang ba?" hindi ko na bilang kung pang-ilang ulit ko na itong itinanong.
She looks away, her head cocks through the window, "I really don't know how to say it but.." she pauses before looking at me again, "There's something that you need to know."
I breathe deeply, activating my brain to hear what she has to say. It's not like what she's going to say will make my world fall apart, bakit ba ako kinakabahan? Ang lamig kasi bigla ng kamay niya, malalim ang tingin niya, kinakabahan ba siya?
"What exactly is it about?" I smile softly, refraining my negative thoughts.
"What if.." she swallowed hard, those two words from her mouth rendered my heart race a little faster. Noong huling sinabi niya kasi ang mga salitang 'yan, masyado niya akong pinakaba.
"Just say it, ano'ng pumipigil sa 'yo?" hindi ko pinutol ang tingin sa kanya, "Kung ano man 'yon, lagi mong isipin kung gaano ako kasigurado sa 'yo at hindi maapektuhan ng kahit ano ang kasiguraduhang 'yon. Allow me to face the world with you, hindi mo naman kailangang gawin 'yon nang mag-isa."
"Ezra I'm a-" natigil siya nang may kumatok sa bintana ng sasakyan ko, sa gilid niya. Nasa labas si Ma'am Kelani dala ang hand bag niya at isang paper bag.
Binitiwan ako ni Rafa para pagbuksan ang kapwa propesor sa labas.
"Well, I saw you got into Meziah's car," kumaway siya sa 'kin mula sa labas, "Baka pwede rin akong makisabay sa inyo?"
Sometimes I'm not afraid to say no especially when I'm busy having a serious deals over something. Naudlot ang usapan namin, marami pa namang pagkakataon para pag-usapan iyon kaya isinaalang-alang ko na ang hinihinging pabor ng propesor.
"Saan kita ihahatid ma'am?" siya muna uunahin ko bago ang girlfriend ko, gano'n din namam ang mangyayari.
"Address mo," Ma'am Kelani responds. Nagulat ako, kahit ang muka ni Rafa ay nag-iba rin ng kulay. She's not in good shape tonight, I'm afraid totopakin na naman 'yan sa selos.
"Ma'am, baka maging polvoron ka lang sa daan," pagbibiro ko, inandar ko na ang sasakyan.
"Polvoron?" nagtatakang tanong ni Ma'am Kelani.
"What are you doing at Miss Veneracion's house, Kelani?" mariing tanong ni Rafa, nilingon pa nito ang propesor sa backseat.
Itinaas ni Ma'am Kelani 'yung paper bag na dala niya, "I'm taking this gift in their house?"
"Is that for me, ma'am? Ngunit may quadruplets na po akong binubuhay, may future misis na po ako," natawa ako dahil sa pag-ismid ni Rafa, si Ma'am Kelani tinawanan lang ako.
"This is for your sister, excuse me naman," she flips her hair playfully, "I don't like you, Meziah, if that's what you're assuming."
"Ang fruity, Ma'am Kelani, ah," I chuckle, "Si Mighty Deev ba? Naku ma'am, paano ka aakyat ng ligaw sa 99.9% straight kong kapatid? Baka ma-basted ka lang at ma-teacher zone!"
"I don't think you're right about that again," Ma'am Kelani shakes her head, "I have an urgent conversation with your sister."
"Alam mo ba ma'am, na diyan din nagsimula lolo at lola ko dati? Nagkatuluyan pa sila, sana kayo rin," ngumisi ako.
"Rafa, patahimikin mo nga 'yang girl-si Meziah. She's driving, we're all gonna die soon pero ayoko ng car accident as a reason," she bites her lip.
Nanuyo ang lakamunan ko kasi may muntik siyang sabihin kanina, sana mali ang pagkakarinig ko.
"Kelani.." was the only word Rafa blurted out but it meant so much already, 'tila nagkaintindihan na sila kung ano 'yon.
"Yes?" Ma'am Kelani.
Rafa clears her throat, "H-how did you know?"
Pinagpawisan ako bigla, kabado dahil sa tensyon.
Nagkibit balikat lamang si Ma'am Kelani, maarte niyang itinuro ang gitna namin, "Driving with a single hand is dangerous, Meziah. And please you two, mamaya na kayo mag-holding hands kasi, respeto naman sa mga single."
Sa gulat ay napabitaw kami sa isa't isa. Holy hell, I didn't expect that.
Pagdating namin sa bahay, nagulat ako kasi kilala na ng guards si Ma'am Kelani kaya may hinala akong hindi ito ang unang beses na pumunta siya rito.
"No need to be sorry," nakangiting sabi ni Rafa. "I can handle myself."
Naiwan kaming dalawa rito sa labas, inaya kong pumasok muna ng bahay pero kailangan na raw niyang umuwi, biglaan ay ayaw niyang magpahatid sa 'kin.
"Kailangan ba talagang sa taxi ka sumakay? Pwede naman kitang ihatid kung saan ka pa dadaan bago umuwi."
"I need to go back to the University, don't worry about me okay?" hinaplos niya ang likod, "Your father is inside, I know he rarely comes here. Get in, stay home and spend time with your family."
"May hindi ka ba sinasabi sa 'kin?" hindi ko na nagawang ikubli ang bagay na kanina ko pa gustong itanong, "Iyong gusto mong sabihin kanina sa loob ng kotse, ano 'yon?"
Tahimik niyang sinalubong ang nagtatanong na tingin ko, matagal bago siya sumagot, "It was about Kelani, I just thought she likes you. I understand exactly she's clingy, but seeing you so close to her still infuriates me."
Pinisil ko ang pisngi niya, she's wearing the jealous puffy cheeks again, looking so pouty, "I agree she's sort of touchy but I think she knows her boundaries naman lalo ngayong alam niyang girlfriend kita. If it's true that she doesn't like me, wala kang dapat ipag-alala kasi kung ako rin lang, hindi ko na kayang tumingin sa iba."
Umirap siya, ibinalot niya ang kanyang mga braso sa leeg ko, "You better watch out Miss Veneracion, you're only allowed to act all clingy around me."
"Yes commander," may kilig na ngiti ko, sumaludo pa ako at lalong hinapit siya sa baywang.
"I'll make it up to you tomorrow, let's set a date, the real one. I mean, somewhere na walang istorbo, just the two of us.." malambing niyang saad, naiintindihan ko kung ano'ng ibig niyang sabihin. Wala pa kaming matinong date na all-out kami as a couple, dahil summer classes na at maraming kalat na cambridge students sa buong syudad ay hindi namin magawang landiin ang isa't isa in public lalo na sa mismong loob ng school.
"Anywhere with you love," ngiti ko, "Have you been to Casa Grandé? Pwede tayong magbakasyon do'n sa susunod."
"Never been there, is that the place where you used to take your girls with you?" she raises a brow.
Naalala ko na naman iyong sinabi ni Poseidon, rason bakit niya 'yan nasasabi ngayon, "Hindi ko naman sila pinapsayal do'n, eh. We have a hotel chain there and with my access-rafa!"
Panay daing ako nang sipain niya iyong tuhod ko, hindi naman sobrang lakas pero masakit pa rin.
"I just need you to say yes or no, not tell me all about your dirty businesses with those women in Casa Grandé especially in your own hotel," she glares at me while my smile growing wider at the way her lips seem to speak in pout, "Ayoko do'n, I'd rather go back to that place where we watched the city lights."
"Sorry na," I pout while stretching my foot, "I will never talk about them from now on unless you ask me, my mouth is just too much sometimes."
Umismid lang siya't naglakad na palayo.
"Wala akong kiss? Nanghihina ako."
Nagpadyak siya pabalik saka niya ako hinalikan sa pisngi, "Get inside na."
"Dito pa," itinuro ko ang lips ko saka lumabi, nag-inarte siya pero 'di naman ako papayag na 'di makaisa, pinatakan ko ng isang halik ang leeg niya.
Itinulak niya ako paloob ng gate pero hinila lang ulit niya ako palabas para idiin sa pader kung saan hindi kami natatanaw ng guards, ayan na naman siya sa pagpader na 'yan.
"Wala pang three seconds miss mo na ako agad?" I grin and widen my eyes at what she does next. Siniil niya ako ng halik na akala ko papatak lang kanina, it drives me all sort of high and heated. Napaungol na lamang ako nang maglakbay ang mapaghanap niyang mga kamay mula sa batok hanggang sa buong katawan ko.
Her sensual eyes sparkle as her lips move and wrap mine. I'm fighting the urge to feel it not only on my mouth but to every part of my body. She feels so soft, delicate, and inviting.
"R-rafa.." I moan softly, my hands are all over her body too at bago pa ako tuluyang takasan ng kontrol. I say in an exhale, "Love, you know I don't choose place, I could take you here.."
Tumigil siya at nahihingal na yumakap sa 'kin, napapangisi akong naghabol ng hininga. I'm really turned on right now, and it's not only because of the kiss, but more because her hand is almost inside my pants. Kapag hindi kami nagpigil baka hindi ko na siya pauwiin, ang bilis manghina ng tuhod ko.
Paparating na iyong taxi na na-book niya kanina pa, hindi ko alam kung bakit parang ayoko siyang umalis.
"I'll see you tomorrow," she presses her forehead against mine. "I gotta go.."
I nod silently and connect our lips once more, "Keep me updated until you get home please."
Tumango siya at matamis na ngumiti, pinagbuksan ko siya ng pintuan at inalalayan siya sa pagpasok.
"Ez.." she calls my name again, not caring if the driver overhears us.
"Love?" malambing na tugon ko, para kaming nasa airport sa inaasta niya ngayon as if hindi na kami magkikita bukas.
"I love you," she mumbles softly, a precious moment the world stops and my heart feels so happy, all I want to do is grab her out of that cab and keep her in my arms.
But she needs to go..
I smile, "I love you too.."
What a lovely night, I wish this never ends..
"Bakit ka napadaan dito?" matamang tanong ko kay Wren na naglapag ng kape sa harapan ko, hindi gaanong matao ang cafeteria ngayon kaya napili ko ritong magpahinga.
"May binisita lang," she pulled a chair for herself.
"Professor Yvania?" I smirk in an interfogative tone, she immediately gives me a defensive look.
"Kasama ko si Alpha kanina, may dinaanan lang kami!" depensa niya, "Ikaw? Ngayon lang kita nakita mag-isa, where are your friends?"
"We're all busy on our own," sagot ko, nagtataka rin kasi tunay nga naman. Wala pang nagpapakita ni isa sa mga minions ko sa 'kin ngayong araw o baka naging abala lang ako masyado sa responsibilidad ko bilang studyante at SSC President dahil kahit si Rafa hindi ko pa natitingnan.
"Oh, hindi ba sila 'yon?" itinuro ni Wren sina Jazzver, at Mighty Deev. Ako lang ba ang wala? Hindi ko napansin dahil nauna na 'yung iba at para silang may hinahabol.
"Hoy!" sigaw ko at iniwan si Wren.
Hindi ko sila nahabol, tumunog ang phone ko't nakatanggap ng text mula kay Rafa na nagsasabing 'wag ko na siyang sunduin.
Nagmatigas ako at hindi nakinig, pumunta pa rin ako sa library at nalamang before lunch time pa nag-out si Rafa.
Someone:
Love? Where are you?
Message sent 4:59 PM
I don't know why I feel like something is not right today, sana pagod lang 'to. Ang gloomy kasi sa pakiramdam, parang uulan 'yung vibe pero maaraw naman. Damn it, I deflect all this negative energy to the universe!
Someone:
I called Red, hindi ka pa raw
umuuwi sa inyo? Please answer
my call, Rafa.
Message sent 6:09 PM
Someone:
I'm worried, nalibot ko na ang
buong school, hindi ko alam
kung saan kita hahanapin.
Now
Kahit si Arthur at Ma'am Kelani ay nilapitan ko na, wala akong nakuhang impormasyon saan ko siya pwedeng hanapin. Mga kaibigan ko wala rin, kahit sino sa kanila hindi ko ma-contact.
"I have to go first, may kailangan lang akong puntahan," paalam ko kina Wren at Alpha pagkatapos namin mag-dinner.
Lumabas ako ng Sapori D'Italia at nagmadaling umangkas sa big bike ko nang mahagip ng tingin ko si Rafa na papasok sa parehong Italian Restaurant.
Muli kong hinubad ang suot na helmet para puntahan siya pero may humila sa likod ko.
"H-hey, damn you!" mura ko kay Yesha, may halong gulat dahil bigla-bigla na lang siyang sumusulpot.
"Did I scare you?" binitawan niya ako, she removes her earpods while staring at me deeply.
I shrug, "What do you need? Para kang kabute!"
She breathes out, her eyes drop on my wrist, "Where's your SOS watch? I can't track it."
"Naiwan ko sa Baguio," nahati ang atensyon ko, lumingon ulit ako sa resto. Nasa second floor sina Wren at Alpha kung saan ako nanggaling habang ang girlfriend ko na ngayo'y mag-isang nakaupo sa first floor ay parang may hinihintay.
"Where do you think are you going?" hinigit ni Yesha ang braso ko nang magtangka akong tumungo pabalik sa restaurant.
"As you can see," iminuwestra ko ang kamay sa gusali ng Sapori D'Italia, "May kakausapin lang ako sa loob."
"Pero kailangan mong sumama sa 'kin, Meziah," Yesha says firmly.
"For what?" I look back at the spot where Rafa is sitting, "I need to talk to my girlfriend so if you excuse me-"
"I don't think this is the right time for that," humigpit ang pagkakahawak niya sa braso ko, nakahahalata na ako, ano na naman ba 'to? Pakiramdam ko rin tuloy may nakamasaid sa 'min sa paligid, tama pa ba 'tong mga nararamdaman ko?
"Tell me what's wrong? Ang weird mo," kibit-balikat ko, "May problema ba?"
"Wala," medyo magulong sagot niya.
"Then let's talk tomorrow, kailangan ko nang pumasok," buntong-hininga ko.
"Meziah, stop!" sigaw niya, ilang hakbang na rin ang pagitan namin, naiwan na siya sa parking lot. May sinabi pa siya na hindi ko na naintindihan, hinarap ko siya for the last time.
"Yesha will you fucking leave me alone?!" naiinis ko nang bulalas, nag-aalala na ako't gulong-gulo, tumingin ulit ako sa pwesto ni Rafa ngunit hindi na siya mahagilap ng mga mata ko. Hindi ko alam kung bakit pero nataranta ako, dumagdag pa na parang may sumusunod sa 'kin.
"I'm sorry," Yesha utters behind me.
Before I could run inside, Blain and Mattias showed up from nowhere and dragged me away from the building.
"What the hell are you doing?! What's this?!" galit na bulyaw ko, masyado silang malakas kaya nakaladkad nila ako agad papunta sa sasakyan ni Yesha.
"Meziah, kailangan mong sumama sa 'min!" Mattias shouts seriously.
Nagpumiglas ako, "Tangina, ano ba kasing nangyayari?!"
"Basta sumama ka na lang kasi, for once, don't ask and just trust us," Blain speaks softly.
My eyes glued to the restaurant, searching for Rafa. She suddenly disappeared, and I'm fucking worried as hell. I breathe in, "Let me go inside for a while, kailangan ko lang siguraduhing maayos si Rafa utang na loob."
"Wala na tayong oras," Mattias answers, Blain opens the door and beckons me to enter the car.
"Sabihin niyo nga muna kung para saan 'to! Hindi 'yung ganito na nangangaladkad kayo, mga gago ba kayo?!" tiningnan ko sila isa't isa.
"S-sorry na, we just don't know how to say it. Bad news, I'm afraid," Yesha sighs.
I swallowed hard, "What's the bad news?"
"Kilala na namin kung sino si Xiomara Morgana."
How did it turn into bad news?
Magmula nang sabihin niya iyon ay para akong naparalisa, kahit abilidad kong magsalita ay pansamantalang nawala. Tulala at wala sa sarili nila akong dinala sa isang hindi pamilyar na mansion, hindi ko pa napupuntahan kahit kailan. Kating-kati akong malaman kung sino'ng tao ang nasa likod ni Xiomara Morgana, ayoko nang manghula ngunit sa ibayong banda ay may takot na pumipigil sa 'kin.
I didn't hear anything from them after that, ayoko rin silang kausapin dahil wala ring silbi, basta sumama na lang ako.
"I would like to warn you in advance to brace yourself," Yesha warns calmly.
"Kaninong bahay 'to?" tanong ko, binati kami ng isang katulong at pinapasok.
My muscles tensed after seeing the pictures in the living room. All but one of the people in the pictures are completely new to me.
Olie Mine Dominica.
"Ezra Meziah," Mighty Deev's voice greets me as soon as we walk into the room, my fists clench tighter as I see the other people who are with her. Jazzver, and Olie mine.
"Ikaw?" lumaki ang hakbang ko hanggang sa makwelyuhan ko siya, agad na lumapit sina Jazzver at Mighty Deev para pigilan ako.
"It's not me! Oh goodness," Mine taps her shirt calmly, she shakes her head.
"If it's not you, then who is she?! Nasaan si Xiomara?!" I shrug from their grips, they all look odd, as if someone has died. Yesha is burying her face on her palms, Mighty can't look at me, Mattias and Blain are holding each other's hands while Jazzver is just standing on my back.
"Makinig ka muna," Mighty Deev points the chair on my side, this scene is very familiar, ganitong ganito sila noong pinakita nila sa 'kin ang library cctv footages.
"Na-decode ko na," iniabot sa 'kin ni Jazzver iyong nakatuping black scroll.
"Kailan pa?"
"When we were in Mix it Up," seryosong sagot niya, "I tried to tell you about it right away pero ayokong mas lalong gumulo ang lahat kapag nalaman mo agad. Kay Mighty ko muna sinabi ang tungkol sa scroll, sa kanila until we'll figure it out."
I quietly unfold the balck paper with scotch tapes all over it, my knees buckling for unknown reasons. May mga marka na sa roon si Jazzver, burado ang ibang nakasulat roon.
"Perhaps the first and third passages of the letter meant something, but the core message is in the second paragraph," Jazzver adds, "Pay close attention to the first letters of every single word in that paragraph and connect them all."
The black scroll:
Ezra,
R̶o̶s̶e̶s̶ ̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶r̶e̶d̶,̶ ̶v̶i̶o̶l̶e̶t̶s̶ ̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶b̶l̶u̶e̶.̶ ̶G̶o̶o̶d̶ ̶m̶o̶r̶n̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶t̶o̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶.̶
Roses are fairytale and it symbolizes kisses in love.
Lying in naked girlfriend, you're officially under spell.
Open-hearted, feeling thornless like yesterday..
R̶o̶s̶e̶s̶ ̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶n̶o̶t̶ ̶a̶l̶w̶a̶y̶s̶ ̶r̶e̶d̶.̶ ̶V̶i̶o̶l̶e̶t̶ ̶w̶i̶l̶l̶ ̶n̶e̶v̶e̶r̶ ̶b̶e̶ ̶b̶l̶u̶e̶.̶
̶T̶h̶a̶t̶'̶s̶ ̶t̶r̶u̶e̶r̶ ̶t̶h̶a̶n̶ ̶t̶r̶u̶e̶.̶ ̶S̶o̶o̶n̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶w̶i̶l̶l̶ ̶k̶n̶o̶w̶.̶
While decoding it on my own mind according to Jazzver's instructions, my heart slowly sinking down my stomach. Those words..start to echo with Xiomara's voice in my head like crazy.
Rafa is killing you softly.
"Fucking absurd!" I crumple the paper and throw it on the table, "Bakit kailangang idaan ng Xiomara na 'yon sa ganito?! She can just write it directly on that scroll! Is she fucking kidding me?!"
"I already told you this before, Xiomara is playing mind games with you. Now that I realized she's doing this to protect you but at the same time monkey your head," Jazzver says.
"Or maybe dahil kasama mo si Professor Cordova sa cabin house na 'yon. Xiomara wrote it indirectly para kung si ma'am ang makakita no'n ay hindi niya agad mapapansin. Scroll was the choice para magmukang lumang display lang sa cabin, para sa 'yo talaga ang letter na 'yan," Mighty Deev states.
"No fucking way!" I shake my head continuesly, I don't believe this. I will never!
"Why do you think Professor Cordova tore or crumpled the black scroll when you gave it to her?" Yesha snorts.
"Kasi kung mas nauna man niyang naintindihan 'yon sa 'kin, she crumpled it because it isn't worth our time to dwell on it! It's nonsense!" giit ko, ang hindi ko lang malaman kung totoong na-gets agad ni Rafa 'yung letter na 'yon, bakit hindi man lang siya nagsabi sa 'kin?
"All of this will stay as rational theories hangga't hindi sinasabi ni Xiomara ang totoong motibo niya, the accused will also remain innocent until proven guilty," Mighty Deev states seriously.
"Si Xiomara? Kilala niyo na siya hindi ba? Sabihin niyo sa 'kin kung nasaan siya, tapusin na natin 'to," nanggigigil sa galit kong sabi.
"She's just here," Mattias says under her breath, I stare at her.
Yesha walks closer to hold Mine's hand, then she speaks, "We tried but only you can find the truth, ikaw lang ang pwedeng kumausap kay Xiomara."
Later on, Mine walks over to the next door and unlocks it.
Nagsibalikan ang lahat sa kanya-kanyang upuan, si Mine na lamang ang nakatayo sa may pinto, hinihintay akong lumapit.
"S-she's inside?" nagtatakang tanong ko, sa kagustuhang matapos 'to, mabilis kong pinihit ang door knob.
"Yes, we sedated her earlier kaya wala siyang malay ngayon."
Tumambad sa 'kin ang isang babaeng nakaupo sa isang tiffany chair with her hands tied at the back, agad akong nakumbinsi na siya na iyon dahil sa suot niya. Black cape with a big hood, black pants and boots. This is..Xiomara Morgana.
"How did you catch her?" tanong ko, mukang wala pa itong malay dahil nakayuko ito at hindi ko makita ang muka niya.
"Sapori D'Italia," Mine answers.
"Just tell me who is she," mariing sabi ko, hindi na kasi ako makalapit dahil parang may pumipigil sa 'kin. Isa pa't may napansin ako, "Setting aside what's written on that scroll, bakit muka kayong apektadong lahat? And you, why are you even with us? If I remember correctly, you are not part of this gang. Bahay niyo 'to hindi ba?"
"Dahil ako ang tumulong sa mga kasama mo para mahuli si.." nanghina ang boses niya, tumingin ito kay Xiomara na wala pa ring malay. "Si..Xiomara."
"Lucca and you helped me to catch the saboteurs and now Xiomara Morgana. Nagpanggap kang witness noon, you gave us a misleading report about what you really saw during my campaign," I say, confused. "Who are you?"
"Lucca's friend," tipid niyang sagot, pareho kaming nabigla nang umungol iyong babae sa upuan, nanigas ako sa tinatayuan ko nang iangat niya ang kanyang muka.
"N-no fucking way.." I say, shaking my head continuesly, "You've got to be kidding me, what in the fuckery is this? If this is a prank, fucking cut the cameras!"
"M-meziah? Mine?" Lucca mumbles weakly, she's the woman tied on the chair..
Lucca Ivo Chua is Xiomara Morgana..
"W-where am I? Why am I tied?" nalilitong singhap ni Lucca, "What's going on?"
Too overwhelmed, I don't know what to say or react.
The next thing I know, Mine is dragging me out of the room.
"Si Lucca 'yung nasa loob, gising na siya," Mine mutters, sabay-sabay na pumasok ang lahat sa silid kung saan naroroon si Lucca habang patuloy lang sa paghila sa 'kin si Mine.
Nasa living room kami ngayon, pinaupo niya muna ako sa couch at binigyan ng tubig para kumalma.
"Nanggo-good time lang kayo, these are plain stupid shits. Lucca is not Xiomara! She will never betray me, hindi niya magagawa 'yon..hindi.." nanginginig kong sambit. "She's been helping me all throughout to catch Xiomara, this is impossible."
"It is my unfortunate responsibility to explain you all of this," she calmly states, "I'm sorry if we had to do it this way, nakiusap sa 'kin ang mga kaibigan mong 'wag kang biglain kaya sana maintindihan mo sila. Now let me explain blow-by-blow, then you can ask me anything under the moon after this."
"Lucca is not Xiomara right? Sabihin mo muna sa 'king nagbibiro kayo.." todo deny ko pa rin, "Lucca can't do this to me.."
"Lucca is not the villain of your story, Meziah, that's what you have to keep in mind na lang," bumuga siya ng hangin at naupo sa harapan ko, "It was that night when I first met Xiomara Morgana with the saboteurs. I was telling you the truth when I said I didn't recognize them except for Xiomara. Noong gabing sinisira nila ang mga campaign materials mo, Xiomara run to our dorm para magtago, nawalan siya ng malay sa mismong harapan ng kwarto ko kaya ko siya tinulungan. When I saw her without the mask, I quickly recognized her face back then, she's Lucca Chua, but she introduced herself to me as Xiomara Morgana when she woke up."
"And you fucking didn't tell us?!"
"Hindi agad ako nagsumbong kasi ibang pangalan ang sinabi niya sa 'kin, then to our next meeting, sa mix it up 'yon. I met Lucca Chua again without her mask this time, just her normal get up, but she didn't remember me. Parang bagong tao 'yung kaharap ko noon, I even thought if she's not lying perhaps she has a twin but I was wrong when I continued to follow her. Nagpanggap akong witness, sinadaya kong maliin 'yung report para balikan niyo ako, so you wouldn't stop asking me about her hangga't sa mapalapit ako sa inyong lahat. Upon figuring out things, Lucca Chua suddenly interests me, she's like a complicated book written in different languages that I want to read, analyze and understand."
"Bakit ngayon mo lang 'to sinasabi? I still don't understand what's going on."
"Xiomara Morgana doesn't exist the way everybody thinks she is."
"Kanina lang sinasabi niyong si Lucca si Xiomara."
"Xiomara Morgana is Lucca's alter's identity," she mutters. "But unfortunately, Lucca is unaware of Xiomara Morgana's existence as her alter until now."
"Alter?" I pause and think again, "Are you saying she has DID?" Multiple Personality Disorder? "Is that even possible?"
"It was Lucca who followed you in Baguio. She just wanted the best for you, it's right that she's protecting you, and she's doubted your girlfriend as someone who can't be trusted, but little did she know, sarili niya mismo ang kalaban niya...si Xiomara nakakubli lamang sa kanya. Pains me to say this again but Lucca is still unaware about Xiomara Morgana's presence being her alter hanggang ngayon."
"Bakit hindi niyo sinabi?"
"Trust me, I tried but her condition's thorough diagnosis will have to take time, we're still on the process. Hindi naniwala si Lucca 'nung sinubukan ko, lumayo siya sa 'kin at muntik pa niya akong saktan," may lungkot niyang saad. "Anyway, my mother is a psychiatrist, and I'm studying to be one as well. Madalas magpunta rito sa bahay si Lucca dati, sinadya ko silang paglapitin ni mom para sa ikabubuti niya. Gusto siyang tulungan ni mommy but in due process, iyon naman talaga ang nais kong mangyari."
"Bakit kung magsalita ka mas may alam ka pa kay Xiomara kaysa kay Lucca?" hindi pa rin makapaniwalang tanong ko.
"I've already met Xiomara Morgana multiple times," mabilis niyang sagot, "Mas nauna ko pa nga iyong naging kaibigan kaysa kay Lucca, she trusts me enough to tell me stories more especially about you."
Tumayo ako't napahilamos, lumapit siya sa 'kin sabay hawak sa mga kamay ko..nakikiusap.
Her voice wavers, "Lucca needs you as much as you need her, Meziah. I'm doing this pretty much exclusively for her, though I'd like to help you as well. Meet Xiomara Morgana tonight, and then leave her alone once you've gotten the information you need. Lucca needs our help and support. She deserves to heal from her dark traumas, and I hope you don't get to deprive her of that. Mabait naman si Xiomara Morgana, nagawa lang niya itong lahat to protect you."
"To protect me? At ano namang alam ng Xiomara na 'yan sa buhay ko?" mapanuyang balik ko.
"Gaano ka ba kasigurado na si Lucca lagi ang kaharap mo ever since you met her? Xiomara would sometimes disguise herself as Lucca and overtake her as she has more control over everything," she blinks, "Lucca does not recognize her alter identity, but Xiomara is aware of Lucca's existence. Lucca never addressed you by your first name, correct? Xiomara prefers to call you Ezra, and she's just doing all these shits to guard you from Professor Cordova."
Dati ay ayokong tinatawag ako sa first name ko, hindi ko na ginawang big deal 'yung pagtawag ng kung anu-ano ni Lucca sa 'kin dahil masyado na akong kumportable sa kanya. Buong akala ko Lucca is just like that, magaling mag-trip, maloko at luka-luka. Hindi ko naman alam na sa kabila ng mga pinapakita niya ay may mas malalim pa pala siyang pinagdadaanan, bilang kaiigan I failed to see that.
"Is she telling the truth about Rafa? The scroll? Totoo ba lahat ng 'yon?" nanghihinang tanong ko, umaasa na sana hindi..na nagkakamali lang siya.
Napabitaw siya sa 'kin, "I think mas makabubuting si Xiomara ang kausapin mo tungkol diyan.."
"Alam ba nila?" tukoy ko sa lahat ng kasamahan naming nasa room ngayon, "Ang pinanggagalingan ng bagay na sinulat ni Xiomara sa scroll? Kung bakit niya nasulat 'yon?"
She shakes her head, "Ang tungkol lang sa kondisyon ni Lucca ang alam nila, that Xiomara Morgana is just her alter identity who's in love with you."
Rafa is softly killing you..
"Fuck," I stand and run past her towards the room, napasinghap ang lahat dahil sa pagdating ko.
Nauna akong lumapit kay Mighty Deev saka ko ito pinagsabihan, "Umuwi ka na, kapag nalaman ni daddy ang tungkol dito baka ikapahamak mo pa. Iwan mo na sa 'kin lahat ng 'to."
"What are you thinking? Are you planning to bring this to the authorities-"
"As your older sister, please just do what I say," mariing sabi ko, "Kung gusto mo pang maging abogado balang araw, ayokong madungisan ang pangalan mo dahil sa 'kin." I turn to Yesha, "Where's the red switchblade? The pocketknife?"
Her eyes widen, she moves her hand to keep away the blades, "Meziah, no!"
Wala siyang nagawa nang hablutin ko ang kutsyilyo sa kanya, kahit iyong scroll na nilukot ko kanina.
"Ezra Meziah," Mighty Deev holds my cold hand, "Please be gentle with Lucca, don't hurt her."
Shoving her hand from me, I kick the door open and close it making sure that no one is listening. Sinalubong ako ng matalim at mapangahas na tingin ni Lucca or should I say..Xiomara Morgana. I take the knife, stun gun and scroll with me to trigger her pero mukang hindi na kailangan.
Her evil smile and piercing red eyes bore into mine. The hood of her cape has been removed, and her messy hair is strewn across her forehead. Everything about her gaze is growing darker, now only few steps apart, I hold her chin which she quickly shakes off.
"I literally can not believe you've just turned into a plot twist in my life," I start off, pull a chair and sit in front of her.
At that, she smirks smugly, "I don't think what you said does hold water, I'm just a little spoiler of your biggest plot twist, Ezra. Do you know what is it? The woman you love the most is your real enemy."
Her voice has altered, she no longer sounds like Lucca. Kung si Lucca ay maarteng magsalita, kabaligtaran ang lahat sa kanya, para siyang naka-voice changer at posible pala 'yon.
Could I please just wake up? My mind keeps telling me to believe this isn't happening. Dang it, this is the worst nightmare I ever have.
Ayoko na 'tong patagalin pa, kinuha ko iyong lukot na paper scroll at pinakita 'yon sa kanya, "What's the meaning of this?"
"Alam mo kung ano 'yan. I never lied to you, Ezra, the scroll already sums up everything."
She keeps calling me..Ezra.
"Not why you are doing this," I grit my teeth.
"All I want is for you to stay alive, no matter how cruel the world is," seryosong saad niya, "Even if you think you're a big ball of dumb shit," she chuckles, "I'm not sure why I'm doing this actually. Maybe it started when I witnessed how close you came to dying at that rooftop party. I tried to save you from that woman, but Daisey had already done so."
What is she talking about?
"Kilala mo si Daisey?" I remember meeting Daisey last week lang, she said the same thing. Akala ko iisang tao iyong nagtangka sa buhay ko at si Xiomara. What's this again?
"I know Daisey, how about you? Do you know who's the woman who wanted you dead that night?" her face turns to an amused one.
"I'm done looking for you," tanging sagot ko.
"Do not even give me that response, Ezra," she glares, "And don't you fucking brush aside that woman, and just never take what she did to you at that party lightly because she's still after you until now! Hindi siya titigil hangga't hindi ka namamatay!"
Tila alam ko na kung saan patutungo ang usapang ito, ngayon palang parang ayoko nang marinig ang susunod na sasabihin niya.
"Xiomara Morgana, you're the only danger I need to eliminate," I grab the scroll and point out to her, "And this? This is none sense."
"If you believe that makes no sense bakit nandito ka pa?" she shrugs, and smirks.
"Dahil pananagutin pa kita sa lahat ng ginawa mo."
"I don't think I deserve any kind of sanction for only telling you the truth," tumawa siya, "I will pay for the bike I ruined, wala na akong maisip na ibang ginawa kong nakapagpahamak sa 'yo bukod sa illegal tracking devices at pagsunod-sunod ko sa 'yo na nakaapekto sa kapayapaan ng isip mo."
She then explains why she was forced to use real-time recorders because she's only available during the night. She respects Lucca's boundaries kaya sa gabi lang siya nakahihiram ng oras, iyon na rin ang dahilan bakit lagi siyang sa gabi lumalabas. She uses mask and contact lenses to protect Lucca and her reputation.
"Ikaw ang pasimuno sa lahat ng kaguluhan noong SSC Campaigns ko."
"I did it for your own good para ilayo ka sa peligrong dala ng propesor na 'yon sa 'yo. Hindi ka dapat tumakbo bilang presidente, lalo mo lang inilapit sa kapahamakan ang sarili mo. I warned you to avoid her, but you never listened."
"The school is gearing up to expel you once you're caught," mabigat sa loob kong pahayag dahil si Lucca ang pinakamadedehado rito.
What she and Daisey stated about the woman who attempted to throw me off the rooftop is still filling up my head. Still, I'm hoping that she is not the same person she is trying to say.
"That woman in the rooftop," sinalubong ko ang tingin niya, "If you really want to keep me away from that woman, in any way bakit hindi mo agad sinabi sa 'kin ang tungkol sa kanya?"
"I didn't see her face at the rooftop party, but I did catch a glimpse of her black diamond necklace. Kapag nagpakilala ba ako sa 'yo at sinabi ko ang nakita ko ay maniniwala ka?"
Black diamond necklace..
Nagpatuloy siya, "After that incident, I started following you in order to keep you safe. The only thing I know is that woman wanted you dead because of the knife she was holding that night, and the necklace was the only thing that could tell me who she was. Wala akong sapat na ebidensya dahil kahit cctv footages, hindi maaasahan. That then, I met Professor Rafa, she has the same necklace."
"Rafa isn't the only one who has that type of necklace," pagtatanggol ko.
"Alam ko but that didn't stop me to follow her. I know that she's that woman. Kung napunta lang ng mas maaga 'yung red device ko sa kanya, sana noon ko pa nagkumpirma ang kutob ko. What I wrote in that scroll was merely a warning until I discovered it to be true. I just wanted to let you know that she is not who you believe she is. That woman is a devil, she's dangerous-"
"Stop," I say firmly.
She scowls, "Professor Rafa Eli Cordova is softly killing you with her most lethal weapon, romance."
"Do you think I'll believe you?"
"Not now that she has you on her chokehold," umiling-iling siya, "You're blinded but I know it's not yet too late, just use your damn mind over your heart for the first time and make it right now."
"Mabuti siyang tao, she's a soldier."
"I know, she's a trash-" before she can finish what she's saying, I grab her cape near her neck harder as my anger pulsates through me. I just can't stand by and watch her slander my woman in front of me. I exhale, "Shut up!"
Kahit hindi na ito makahinga ay nagpatuloy itong manlaban at magsalita, "Are you afraid to find out more about her true colors? We are all aware that she is a strong, independent woman who excels at everything. Tingin mo ba ang isang katulad niya papatol sa 'yo? Do you really think she loves you? She's not in love with you! Pinapaikot ka lang ng babaeng 'yon! Need I say more? No soldier is afraid to swim or of loud noises. She knows how to drive a big bike, Ezra! Gets mo na? Wala siyang konsensya't kinatatakutan! Hindi siya mahina, but she used all of a woman's flaws and vulnerabilities to manipulate you. Your weaknesses! She took full advantage of you and your daddy issues when you were emotionally distraught, and she did so through romance!"
I felt like something melt my insides until all that was left is nothing, "Where are all this coming from?"
"Matagal ko na kayong sinusundan, kabisado ko na ang babaeng 'yon at ang maruming laro niya," she breathes out as soon as my grip loosens. "And you didn't see it even coming dahil nabulag ka na niya."
"Hindi," pilit na pagtanggi ko, "She loves me, you're just lying. Walang rason para gawin niya sa 'kin 'to.."
"It's your father."
"My father? But why me? Of all my siblings?" nagtatanong ako, nanunuya at pilit na dinidiin sa kanya na hindi pa rin ako naniniwala sa mga sinabi niya.
"They believe you're the weakest link, adding to that your father loves you so much so the more she destroys you and your dad, the better it will be for their plans."
"T-they? Plans?" hindi ako naniniwala at hindi dapat interesado pero panay tanong ako..
"What I'm saying now is what I managed to gather in that red device before you ruined it. Are you ready to learn more about it?"
The door opens, Blain comes in to ask if we need anything. I feel a sudden rush of relief for a second as though I wake up from a nightmare but the same upsetting feeling comes back when Xiomara starts talking shits again.
"May kasabwat siya, hindi lang niya mag-isang ginagawa 'to. I only heard her voice in that pocketknife, hindi ko makilala. This has been their plan all along, and part of it was to make you fall in love with her and hurt you at the end of the day."
"Are you kidding me? Ano 'to soap opera? Tama na ang drama," tumayo na ako dahil sukong-suko na ako, naiiyak na ako sa galit..sa halo-halong emosyon. Ayokong makapanakit kaya mas pinipili ko nang umalis sa lugar na 'to, minamanipula lang nila ang isip ko, kung tingin nila maloloko nila ako nagkakamali sila.
Sumusuko na kahit pasensya ko, wala mang katotohanan lahat ng ito inaamin kong nasasaktan pa rin ako sa mga narinig ko.
"Hear me out please, I'm not yet done," pagmamakaawa niya. "I'm begging you! Para sa 'yo rin 'to! I'm saving you!"
"Hindi ka pa tapos paglaruan ako?" sa huling beses ay hinarap ko siya.
Patuloy lang ito sa pagpalag, "Unleash me, Ezra please, you need my help. Ililigtas kita sa babaeng 'yon, hindi ko hahayaang may masamang mangyari sa 'yo! Sasaktan at papatayin ka niya!"
"Hindi ka na makakalabas dito," walang emosyon kong sabi, nanlumo ang buong muka niya. With how desperate she's sounding, kung hindi ko lang kilala si Rafa ay mapapaniwala niya ako.
"Talk to your father after this, makipagtulungan ka sa kanya kung kinakailangan. I have no idea what he did to them but I'm sure they're all doing this because of him!" babala niya, bakas na bakas ang takot sa kanyang boses. "Stay away from Professor Cordova! She's gonna kill you on your first date!"
Wala na akong balak pakinggan siya ngunit nang banggitin niya ang tungkol sa first date namin ni Rafa na matagal ko nang pinagpaplanuhan ay nanigas ako sa tinatayuan ko.
I've been planning to give Rafa a real promise ring on our first official date as a couple.
"What are you talking about? Hindi ka pa rin ba titigil?"
"I heard all of it! On that pocketknife before she came to your condo unit! Hindi totoong galing siya sa Korea! Niloloko ka lang niya!" pagwawala niya, "Do you really think she's innocent? Her religion is destroying you! Tanungin mo ulit sa kanya kung sino'ng pumatay kay Sebaztian Davies, but this time by pulling a knife on her throat, she will tell you-"
"Tumigil ka na!" tinulak ko siya at idiniin sa wall bandang likod niya. I grip her neck, my eyes darkening, "Say that again, babaliin ko leeg mo."
She struggles to speak but she still pushes to, "Red roses and wine, violet and blue tulips. Candles, you and her on your first date, she will never be the same again. If you insist on going, don't drink the wine she will give you. The waiter will serve you a salad with nuts on it, which she will complain about and use to distract you. At that moment, she will put something on your glass, hindi ka pa niya papatayin on the spot. She will do it slowly and surely! They have more plans in the works, 'yon lang ang narinig ko sa tracker. Pakiusap don't go there alone, bring the stun gun I gave you, it has a knife on it o magdala ka ng totoong baril. Coordinate with the authorities! Your time is running out!"
I shake my head in denial and disbelief, "I guess you're really out of your damn mind if you think I'm going to believe you."
"This is what I hate about you, alam kong kahit lapagan kita ng maraming ebidensya ay ibabasura at ide-deny mo lang dahil nabulag ka na. Hindi ka bubuhayin ng lintik na pagmamahal na 'yan, Ezra! Go keep turning a blind eye until it actually happens!" bulalas niya, "Ano pa bang kailangan kong gawin para maniwala ka at gamitin mo naman ang utak mo?!"
"Wala! I want you to shut the fuck up and leave me alone from now on! Ginagawa mo lang 'to because you like me! Sinisiraan mo lang kami! Tama ako hindi ba? You're just a desperate woman who wants my attention! I didn't even ask for your help, or to protect me! Hindi ko naman hinihingi ang tulong mo, hindi naman kita kailangan, eh," binitawan ko siya, dahil na rin siguro sa sunod-sunod na pagsigaw ko kaya sabay-sabay na pumasok ang iba pa naming mga kasama. "Wag ka nang magpapakita o magpaparamdam sa 'kin kahit kailan!"
"What have you done?!" Mine runs and helps Xiomara on the ground.
"Ilayo niyo siya sa 'kin," my voice cracks, fighting myself to burst out in front of them.
For the final time, Xiomara's statement catches me again before I go off.
"I don't know much about love but yeah, perhaps I would also like you to acknowledge my existence because Lucca doesn't want to see me either. She hates me so much that she wishes to completely eradicate my presence in her life. She can't accept me, ang tingin niya sa 'kin demonyo..a dark nightmare. All I want is to be seen, appreciated and accepted, that I have feelings too..na hindi lang ako isang imaginary human being, that I have a place in this world too."
Pinigilan ako nina Mattias at Blain paglabas ko pero gusto ko na munang mapag-isa to digest everything.
Running out of the mansion, I bump into someone. Tingin ko ay siya na iyong mommy ni Mine dahil sa resemblance nilang dalawa.
"Are you okay?" she gently asks, I only nod and hide my face as tears are starting to roll off my eyes.
"Yeah, thank you," tumango ako.
"Kaibigan ka ba ng anak ko? Bakit ka nandito sa labas?"
"I am Lucca's friend," pigil-luha kong sagot, hinawakan ko ang isang kamay niya. Ngumiti ako at nagmakaawa, "Doc, please do everything to make her feel better."
Matulin akong tumakbo sa gitna ng malakas na ulan dahil wala akong masakyan, nagtago nang subukan nila akong sundan. Kasabay nang malakas na pagpatak ng ulan ay ang pagbuhos ng luhang kanina ko pa pinipigilan, naniniwala akong ang lahat ng alegasyon nila tungkol ay Rafa ay walang katotohanan..pero bakit ako apektado't nasasaktan?
"I'm not crying because I believe a single thing Xiomara told me," kumbinsi ko sa sarili ko kasi 'yon naman talaga ang totoo, "Dismayado lang ako sa mga nangyayari, kailangan ko ba talagang pagdaanan 'to?"
Then my phone rings, I feel shaken to see Rafa's name on the wet screen. I dash to a nearby shed before picking up the call.
"Love?" I fake a normal tone, she begins by explaining where she has been all day, how she left her phone at home, and so on. Based on her voice and responses, she seems to be perfectly fine which makes me happy and at ease.
"We can reschedule our first date on Saturday night, what do you think?" she chuckles softly, "I have a huge surprise for you if you show up."
"Really? What is it?" tunay bang ikasisiya ko 'yan?
"Geez, you little carrot, surprise nga 'di ba?" maarteng tugon niya na nakapagpangiti sa 'kin.
"Alright, I am very thrilled Miss Cordova," I say in excitement, but it only gradually drops as what Xiomara said crosses my mind. I breathe in, "What happens if I don't show up?"
"Well, that's your choice," lumungkot ang boses niya.
Bumuntong-hininga ako't inilahad ang kamay sa ulan, napapikit ako saglit at nag-isip. Hindi dapat ako nagpapadala sa mga sinabi ni Xiomara, walang katotohanan ang lahat ng 'yon.
"Ez?"
I throw aside my hand and make up my mind, "See you on Saturday night, love."