This is a work of FICTION. All characters are used in FICTITIOUS manner.
---
Irene's POV
"Irene!" I heard Zackarie called me. I looked up and he's walking towards me. "Are you busy?" he asked.
"Not really. Why?"
He pulled my hand causing me to stand up. "Come with me. May ipinapagawa sayo"
Kusa na lang akong napasunod sa kanya dahil sa paghila niya sakin.
"Oh, here she is" Polaria uttered when she noticed me. "Come sit here, Miss" she gestured the chair in the middle so I did.
"What's going on?" I inquired because some architects, Zack and Caelum are around me.
"We have a new client" panimula ni Zack. "And they want you to personally pick and decide for the interior and exterior of their house"
Huh? "Bakit ako?"
"We don't know, basta they want you" he replied. "Choose the best, as if you're choosing it for your own house. Kunwari bahay mo iyon kaya galingan mo" dagdag pa niya na may makahulugang ngiti.
With that smile, I don't feel anything good in this. But I'm going to do it anyways. If they didn't like it, it's their fault, not mine.
"Here are our designs Miss, you can change it if there's something you want to change or you can tell us what you want and what you have in mind." they put some papers in front of me with the house plans.
"Do you have a blueprint of the house?" baling ko kay Zack.
"Indeed we have. Do you want to see it?" he asked.
"Yes please"
He instructed Caelum and then he left. When he came back, he's already holding the blueprint that I asked.
Nang mailapag ito sa harapan ko, hindi ko mapigilang mamangha.
Woah. This house will be big.
Ang ganda! I love every little detail of it.
"We're almost done kaya kailangan nang pumili para sa interior ng bahay" Zack explained.
Naganahan akong mamili dahil sa ganda ng tinatayong bahay.
They told me to imagine that I'm picking designs for my own house and that's exactly what I did.
"Does your client knows how to play instruments?" I asked later on.
"No, but his significant other can."
Napatango-tango ako.
"Can we have a piano in the living room then?" I always wanted to have a piano in the sala.
"Of course Miss" Portia said and wrote it.
They're writing down everything I said, and they'll plan it daw later on.
After a few more time, my work here is done. "We'll show you the finished sketch when we're done Miss" they said and I nodded.
"Siya nga pala, who is this client?" I asked. Kanina ko pa gustong malaman pero hindi ko magawang tanungin dahil nawiwili ako sa pagpili.
"Oh, the owner of this house is Mr. Gregorio Araneta III" Zack said while reading a paper.
My eyes grew bigger as my mouth fell open.
What?!
"Are you kidding me?" hindi makapaniwalang tanong ko.
"No I'm not" he smiled even bigger. "He'll be living here once he starts his own family"
Did I just... pick the interior of his own house?
Bahay kung saan titira ang bubuuin niyang pamilya?
Bahay nila ni Xylyx?
Oh. My. God.
This can't be real!
Nananadya ba kayo?!
"Why didn't you tell me agad?" asik ko kay Zack.
"You didn't ask. Ang tinanong mo lang kanina ay kung bakit ikaw" he chuckled.
Bwisit!
"Una na kami Miss" isa-isa nilang paalam sakin, hawak-hawak nila ang mga papel kanina.
I bit my lips out of tense. Hindi ko na ba yan mababawi?
"I better get going na din. Pupuntahan ko pa yung kliyente ko" sabi pa ni Zack.
Mabuti pa nga at baka masipa na kita palabas.
Naiwan akong mag-isa doon, tulala. Gusto ko na lang maiyak.
For the past few days, since what happened to us, pinanindigan ko ang paglayo sa kaniya. Siya lang naman itong lapit ng lapit, nakaka-irita!
Maya't-maya siyang pupunta dito. He keeps on talking to me but I kept on avoiding him. I even shouted at him once but he refused to stop.
Bahala ka nga.
---
"Hey," I heard a manly voice coming from my right.
May mangungulit na naman, umagang-umaga pa lang.
"Huwag ngayon Greggy, marami akong ginagawa" I uttered without looking at him.
Honestly, tinatagalan ko lang itong ginagawa ko ngayon para hindi ko mabilis matapos dahil after nito, wala na naman akong ginagawa at hindi na naman ako titigilan ni Greggy.
He's demanding for a talk. Palaging 'mag-usap tayo' ang sinasabi. Nakakabwisit.
Bakit di mo na lang kausapin sarili mo.
Naglapag siya ng mga pagkain sa harap ko, and some flowers.
Ang kulit! Hindi man lang sumusuko!
I always give these foods to others. Alam ko na nasasaktan siya doon pero iyon naman talaga ang gusto ko, para naman lumayo na siya. Pero wala.
He always do this. Give me snacks and lunch. Araw-araw, walang mintis. Pero ni isa, wala akong kinain.
His flowers always end up in the vase of this office. Sayang naman kung itatapon ko.
I know that everyone in this office is fully aware of what's happening. But they chose to keep their mouth shut even though they look like they want to ask a lot of questions, I'm very thankful that they kept quiet.
I sighed and didn't mind him. He sat on the chair and watched me. I can feel his gaze.
Nakahinga ako ng maluwag nang may tumawag sa kanya at kailangan daw siya sa opisina niya.
And also, about the chocolates and flowers and cheesy notes that he always put in front of my condo's door. Pinatigil ko na rin.
Ayaw pa niya nang una pero kalaunan, tumigil na rin. I love to read those notes at first pero nang tumagal na, ayoko na pala.
Labag sa nararamdaman ko ang lahat ng ginagawa ko pero wala akong choice, I have to. I won't let my heart rule again, lalo na sa sitwasyon namin ngayon.
Talo ako kapag laging pinapairal ang nararamdaman.
---
When weekend came, I went to the mansion. Doon kami palagi kapag Sabado at Linggo.
"Mommy? Are you awake na? Breakfast will be ready na" I knocked on my mother's door.
"I'll be there in a minute anak" I heard her response. I still nodded even if she can't see me.
I passed by the nursery but I didn't bother to go inside. Nasa kwarto ng mga kapatid ko ang mga anak nila.
Bumalik ako sa kwarto ko para kunin ang cellphone ko. And I'm not surprised when I received a 'good morning' text from him.
Kailan mo ba ko lulubayan, Gregorio?
I heaved a sigh and put my phone inside the pocket of my pajama.
Saktong pagbukas ko ng pinto ay siya ring pagbukas ng pinto ng kwarto ni Manang. Lumabas doon ang maliit na bubwit.
"Good morning Tita!" inaantok na bati ni Borgy.
"Good morning! Gising na ba ang Mommy at Daddy?" I asked.
"I waked them up kanina Tita but they went back to sleep din agad" humaba ang nguso niya.
"We'll wake them up again later. Let's go to Tito Bonget and Tita Liza'a room" I held his tiny hand.
I didn't bother knocking and just went inside. My brother is carrying and swaying his son while Liza just got out from their bathroom.
"Good morning!" I greeted and they greeted me back. "Baba na, I cooked breakfast."
With that, Borgy went back to his parents' room at sabing gigisingin daw ulit sila.
I borrowed my nephew from his father as he went to the bathroom.
"Kamusta?" panimula ni Liza nang naiwan kaming dalawa sa loob ng silid.
"Same old, busy sa school" I lied.
She gave me an unconvinced look. Oh no, may nalalaman ba siya?
"Ah, Leo's school?" she asked, half smirking.
"Y-yeah" I cleared my throat and avoided her gaze.
Of course she's an Araneta, imposibleng hindi niya alam!
"May irereccomend ako sayong book, I'll give it later, I finished reading it na. I swear, ang ganda non" I said,trying so hard to divert the topic.
Geez, I even need to sacrifice one of my books just to change the topic.
"Oh sure. Knowing you, you have a nice taste when it comes to books" she smiled.
Phew, that was close.
Bumukas ang pinto ng banyo at lumabas doon ang kapatid ko. Nauna na akong bumaba at sakto naman ang dating nilang lahat, nakahain na ang mga pagkain.
"I really love your veggie omelet" Liza complimented while eating. The others agreed.
I just smiled as I stab my fork on my sausage.
"Lumuklukmeg kan sa ading ko?" (Tumataba ka ata ading?) I choked on my food with Manang's question.
I don't know if I should take it as a compliment or I should get offended.
Am I? Really?
"Ay wen ne" (Ay oo nga 'no) sang-ayon pa ni Bonget habang pinagmamasdan ang kabuuan ko.
"And? Madi?" (Bawal?)
"Haan met. Ngem agsubsubli ta chubby nga pingping mo idi ubing ka" (Hindi naman. Pero bumabalik yung chubby mong pisngi noong bata ka) Manang replied that made my Mom chuckled.
"Agsubsubli kano" (Bumabalik daw) dinig kong bulong ni Bonget kay Liza.
Bubulong na nga lang di pa ginalingan.
Hindi ako ipinanganak kahapon para hindi ma-gets ang sinasabi niya. But one thing is for sure, they both know something.
---
Monday came and thankfully, wala akong Gregorio na nakita.
I was on my phone since I have nothing to do na naman.
When suddenly, "Uy naks, si Boss nasa TV!"
Nag-angat ako ng tingin sa narinig ko. My gaze went immediately to the flat screen tv on the wall. And there I saw him.
Flashing a smile while in his formal wear. Beside him is Xylyx, looking so pretty with her black long gown.
They are facing a lot of cameras. I read the headline and I was right. It's the premiere day of Xylyx's movie.
Tapos na pala ang shooting niya?
Wait, why do I even care.
"We have here with us, Miss Xylyx Zabini Harris together with her fiancé, Mister Gregorio Araneta III" pagpapakilala sa kanila.
"Very supportive naman ng iyong fiancé"
"Blooming ka ata Xy,"
"You two look good together."
Isa-isang sabi ng mga reporters.
K.
"How are you doing?" they asked.
"We're good. Actually, Greggy here is still adapting to all of this things. Cameras and interviews everywhere." Xylyx smiled at the camera while Greggy...
He's looking at her.
The way he looked at me before.
Imagine watching someone you love, loving someone else.
They interviewed them about the movie and about them... their upcoming marriage.
"Engineer, okay ka lang?" dinig kong tanong nila kay Zack.
"Of course, ako pa ba! Bakit naman ako magseselos eh ako, alam ko ang totoo, while other people don't" he chuckled.
Selos? Bakit? Crush niya si Xylyx?
"Miss Irene, tubig?" I saw Trisha handed me my water bottle.
"Thanks" tipid kong sabi bago kinuha ito sa kanya.
"Ikaw Irene, okay ka lang?" bigla akong nakita ni Zack at tinanong.
Talaga naman!
"Ah, oo. Bakit naman hindi" I replied and smiled.
"Okay. Sabi mo eh" he grinned.
I glanced at the television one more time and I noticed something.
Is my imagination playing with me or what I'm seeing is true?
His smiles. It's not as genuine as when he was... with me. Para siyang napipilitan.
Or am I just assuming things?
---
I glanced myself in the mirror for the last time. When I'm done, I grabbed my handbag and made my way to the parking lot.
I opened my phone and composed a message to Zack.
Irene:
Where are you? Andito ka na ba?
3:06 p.m
I heard kase na he's going to the mall and since may titingnan din ako doon but I'm too lazy to drive and I don't want to ask our drivers, nakiusap ako na makikisabay na lang ako, and luckily, he said yes.
I swiped my phone when it rang. He's calling.
"Hello? Nasa baba ka na ba?" bungad niya.
"Oo, where are you?" I asked back.
"Okay good. Look around and tell me if you see a black Mustang" I did what he said.
Iginala ko ang paningin ko at naghanap ng itim na Mustang. I smiled when I saw it not far away from where I am.
"I saw it na. Ikaw na ba 'to?"
"Ah, y-yes. Sa shotgun ka na maupo. I need to hang up now. Bye" nagmamadaling sabi niya.
What happened to that man? Bye eh magkikita naman kami.
I walked towards the car and went inside the passenger's seat without looking inside. Basta na lang akong umupo at inayos ang seatbelt.
"Kanina ka pa ba dito? You shoul--" I didn't had the chance to continue my words when I looked at the driver's seat.
The hell? This is not Zackarie!
"What are you doing here?!" I exclaimed. "Nasaan si Zack?!"
Mukha namang nagulat siya sa pagsigaw ko.
"C-calm down Irene" Greggy tried to hold me but I pushed his arms away. "I just need to talk to you"
"You tricked me!" I uttered with disbelief. "You'll really go this far to talk to me, are you out of your mind?"
"Please, love. I'm sorry if I had to do this. Just please..."
Umiling-iling ako at kinalas ang seatbelt. I tried to open the door but it's locked.
Ni-lock na ni gago!
"Ano ba Greggy! Palabasin mo ako dito!" I yelled.
"No" matigas niyang saad.
I still tried my best to open the door but I really can't. I was in the urge of crying when I heard him tsked.
"Fine" he sighed. "Just don't cry. I don't want to see you crying" I heard he unlocked the doors.
Dali-dali akong lumabas ng sasakyan at naramdaman ko ang pagsunod niya.
I heard him called my name a couple of times but I ignored him. Basta tuloy-tuloy lang ako sa paglalakad.
Because of the great will to get away from him, I didn't notice a car that's coming when I was about to cross.
Kasabay ng malakas na busina ay ang paghila sa kamay ko. I bumped into a hard chest. I looked up and see Greggy again.
"Ano ba Irene! Are you out of your mind?" pagalit niya sakin pero tulala pa rin ako.
Damn! Muntik na naman akong maaksidente!
"Hey, are you okay" biglang umamo ang mukha niya nang mapansin na tulala ako. I felt him embraced me.
It feels so safe in his arms.
Then I suddenly remembered. We're on public!
Hindi kami pwedeng makita sa publiko na magkasama, damn it!
Agad akong humiwalay sa kanya at nagmadaling pumasok sa building ng condo ko.
He was left there. Standing alone, while watching me walk away.
---
Ever since I entered my condo, maya't-maya akong natutulala. My mind keeps on recalling what happened earlier.
Paano na lang kung hindi siya sumunod?
Paano na lang kung hindi rin ako nakita ng driver ng sasakyan at dumiretso na lang?
Pero hindi! Galit nga pala ako sa kanya!
It's his fault anyway. Kung hindi lang siya sumunod, hindi ko bibilisan ang paglakad ko.
Keep on fooling yourself, my mind said.
I was staring at my room's ceiling, waiting to fall asleep when my phone received a message.
Unknown number na naman.
Unknown:
Hello Ate Irene. This is Gwyneth, if you can still remember me. I asked your number from Ate Liza, I hope it's okay lang sa'yo.
9:39 p.m
My eyes widen. Oh yeah, Gwen. Greggy's little sister.
I immediately saved her number and composed a reply.
Irene:
Yes, hi Gwen. What can I do for you?
9:41 p.m
Gwyneth:
OMG! I can't believe you really replied!
9:41 p.m
Well, I messaged you since I wanted to ask something sana.
9:42 p.m
Bakit bigla akong kinabahan sa batang ito.
I didn't reply and just waited for her texts.
Gwyneth:
Kase Ate galing ako sa condo ni Kuya Greggy kanina to give some stuffs and saw a familiar clothes. I think I saw you wearing them na before?
9:44 p.m
There was a picture attached with her message. I was stunned when I saw what she's talking about.
It was my clothes!
Pero nagamit ang mga ito bilang punda ng unan. The clothed pillows are resting on his bed.
What the hell?! He used my clothes as pillow case?!
Then I remembered what he texted me that morning. "And you even left me a souvenir huh"
Darn it!
Irene:
Ah, no. I think that's not mine. I checked my closet and saw them in there.
9:48 p.m
If only I get a dime for every lie that comes out my mouth.
Gwyneth:
Oh. I thought this was yours. Thanks for replying anyway Ate Irene. I missed you so much!
9:48 p.m
Irene:
I missed you too. Bond soon!
9:50 p.m
Gwyneth:
Really? OMG talaga! I'll look forward diyan sa 'Bond soon' mo Ate ha. Aasahan ko na iyan.
9:51 p.m
Irene:
Yeah, inform me where and when. Good night Gwen. Sleep na.
9:52 p.m
Gwyneth:
I will Ate. Good night to you as well.
9:53 p.m
I smiled. I'm still in good terms with his family. Siya lang naman ang hindi.
---
When I woke up the next morning, my phone was flooded with a lot of messages. Kagabi pa ata ang mga iba.
Bongbong:
I need your explanation as soon as you wake up tomorrow.
11:51 p.m
He sent me a link of an article so I opened it. Biglang nagising ang diwa ko nang makita ang laman nito.
'Ex couple- Irene Marcos and Greggy Araneta III, spotted at the parking lot.
Rumor says that the ex couple has got back together as they were seen together a lot of times.
Marcos and Araneta was seen yesterday afternoon at the parking lot of her condo.
According to the photo snapped by a netizen, they were seen hugging each other.
We are still waiting for Mr. Araneta's fiancée— Miss Xylyx Zabini's response to this. We can recall that the two is about to get married soon.'
There is a photo of us, hugging. This was the time that Greggy pulled me in his arms and save me from the car.
Sabi na eh!
I opened the other messages and they were all talking about that article.
Manang Imee:
Mag-usap tayo bukas. Pupuntahan ka namin.
12:05 a.m
I didn't bother to open the group chat with my friends because I already know their topic.
Hindi ako nagreply ni isa sa kanila. Bahala kayong mag-isip.
After hours of spacing out, I messaged Trisha.
Irene:
Are you in the office na?
9:42 a.m
Trisha:
Good Morning Miss! Yes po, I'm in the office na. And siya nga pala Miss, maraming media po sa labas.
9:43 a.m
That's it! I'm not going out!
Trisha:
Sir Greggy is here also Miss, hinihintay ka ata. He was also surprised about the media, mukhang kanina niya lang nalaman ang tungkol sa article. He looks so worried Miss, tinatanong ka niya sakin.
9:45 a.m
I grabbed my laptop and open my social media accounts na hindi ko palaging binubuksan.
Ngayon na lang ulit.
I opened the same article and I accidentally read the comments.
May ganon? Wala na nga sila, hindi pa dumidistansiya.
Respeto naman sana sa papakasalan.
Magnanakaw na nga yung pamilya, may plano pa atang mang-agaw ng lalaki.
Team Xylyx tayo!
Layo-layo din pag may time.
I never thought that Araneta will cheat. Hays, wala na talagang loyal ngayon.
Red flag. Mahal pa yung ex.
Ang kapal naman!
My tears fell one by one. I can't help but to sob. Most of the comments are from Xylyx's fan accounts.
What did I do to deserve this?
Ginagawa ko naman ang lahat para lumayo, and yet madadamay pa rin ako dito.
They even included my family.
I spent the next following hours crying. It hurts so much.
Sitting on the bed, while hugging my knees. That's what all I did.
I heard noises coming from outside of my room. I think they're here.
My siblings are here.
Maybe they asked for a spare keycard from the receptionist because they know too well that I won't open the door.
My room's door opened and I heard my sister's heavy sigh.
"Irene," she called me but I ignored their presence.
Unang umupo sa harap ko ang kuya ko. "Kumain ka muna. I went to your kitchen and wala pang nagagalaw doon kaya alam kong gutom ka na. Eat na, luto ko yan, masarap" he smiled and gave me a container filled with breakfast.
I silently get the food and started eating. I have no plan in starving myself but I lost my appetite earlier.
"So?" my sister asked as soon as I finished my food.
"Anong 'so'?" balik kong tanong.
She showed me a deadpan face.
"Kailan pa kayo nagkikita?" she asked again.
There and then, I remembered something.
Ang gagong iyon di man lang pinaalala!
Tapos na ang usapan namin a few weeks ago. I've been working in his company for nearly three months now.
Two months lang pagpayag ko noon!
"R-recently lang" tumungo ako para di ko sila makita.
"Don't lie Irene. We've been seeing you entering his company countless times na. What are you doing there?" it's Bongbong's turn to ask.
What the hell? They knew all this time?
"Sinusundan mo ba ako?" I furrowed my brows at him.
"That wasn't intentional. I just saw you once, going to your car. Sinundan kita kasi yun din ang daan na tinatahak ko palagi pero I was shocked when you changed your way. Hindi yun yung daan papunta sa school kaya I followed you to know where you are going and there I saw you. Parking in front of his building. You were greeted by the guard as if matagal ka nang pumupunta doon. Hanggang sa palagi na kitang nakikita doon. Now tell me Irene, what are you doing there?" mahabang niyang saad.
Do I have any other choice? Hindi ko na iyon maitatanggi, nakita na eh.
I narrated everything starting at the 'minor accident' thing. Pinagalitan pa nga ako bago ko natuloy ang pagkukwento.
"Nagkabalikan na ba kayo?" Liza asked with full of hopes.
"No!" agad kong sagot.
"The news article?" Manang raised her eyebrow.
I explained the scene yesterday and they are out of words.
My brother let out a heavy and soundful sigh. "We'll figure this problem out sooner or later. For now, take a rest. Wag ka munang lalabas dahil maraming media ang nag-aabang at mainit ang mata ng mga tao sa'yo."
"Do not open your social medias for the meantime. Walang maidudulot yan sayo ngayon" Manang uttered.
"Alam ba 'to ni Mommy?" I asked.
"Not yet. Do you want her to know about this?" she asked back.
I shook my head. "No. I don't want to add up to her problems"
"Kami na lang ang bahalang magpaliwanag kapag nalaman na niya" she held my shoulder.
Liza came back with a glass of water. "Siya nga pala Irene. We'll keep you accompany for today. Anong gusto mong kainin? Magluluto si Bongbong" she smiled.
"Hindi kayo papasok?"
"No. I gave my students some activities and excused myself sa law school. Don't worry, you have our time" Liza.
"Do you think we will let our ading face her problems alone? No way" ginulo ni Bonget ang buhok ko.
"Actually, it was Aimee's idea to visit you here today." Manang uttered.
Really? Umabot na doon ang balita?
Huminga ako ng malalim. I'm very grateful that I have them with me.
"Pa-hug nga ako" I extended both of my arms.
Agad naman nila akong sinunggaban ng yakap.
"Stop crying na. Sige ka, pagagalitan ka na ni Daddy niyan" Bonget joked.
I wiped my tears of while laughing. True to their words, they stayed in my condo for the whole day.
Pinaki-alaman na nila lahat ng bagay at lahat ng sulok dito sa condo ko. Kesyo bakit daw ganito, bakit daw ganyan.
They also cooked my favorite foods and comforted me with laughters.
They decided to go home right after they cooked my dinner.
"Irene, dagitay inbilin ko ah, laglagipem" (Irene, yung mga bilin ko ha, tandaan mo) paalala ni Manang.
"Wen Manang, awan danag" (Oo Manang, wag kang mag-alala)
"Mangan kan tun damdaman. Call us if you need anything, pupuntahan ka agad namin." (Kumain ka na mamaya) Bonget said.
"Noted"
"We'll go na Irene, ingat ka dito" Liza waved her hand.
"I will. Kayo din" ani ko at hinalikan sila sa pisngi. "Say hi to my nephews for me"
They wanted to stay but they can't. May mga anak silang naghihintay sa kanila.
When I finished my meal, I went to bed with a light heart. Kahit papano, nabawasan yung bigat na nararamdaman ko.
I opened my phone and saw a lot of messages.
Lindsay:
Hey, are you okay? Kailangan mo ng kausap?
5:34 p.m
Conrad:
Hello madam. Kumusta ka? Nag-aalala kami ni Maam Isay sa'yo. Dito lang kami para sa'yo.
6:17 p.m
Trisha:
Miss pwede ka raw po munang hindi pumasok. Don't worry about the work Miss, ako na bahala. Hope you're okay po.
4:12 p.m
Gwen:
Hi Ate Irene! How are you? Heard the news, Mommy and I are worried about you. Don't worry, we're on your side, always. : )
6:58 p.m
Same as with the groupchat. They're asking if I'm okay and they're ready if ever I need them.
I smiled. Despite how the world see me right now, I have true people that support and love me.
I was startled when I heard knocking on the front door. I immediately stood up and went to it. Sinilip ko muna sa peephole kung sino.
It's Greggy.
Ah okay.
Wait what??!
It's Greggy!
I opened the door. "What are you doing here? Baka mam--" I was cut off when he embraced me.
"I'm sorry" he uttered, almost crying. "I'm sorry if you have to go through this because of me." he sniffed.
"Greggy..." I said, trying to move his hands away from me. "Greggy, sandali baka may makakita na naman sa'tin dito" I pushed him.
"I just came here to check on you. I promise I'll fix this love. This will never happen again" he smiled a little.
He looks so stressed and exhausted.
What is happening to you Gregorio. Pinapabayaan mo na naman ang sarili mo.
I just stood there and didn't say anything. Maya-maya pa ay nag-salita na naman siya.
"You didn't delete my phone number right? Contact me if you need anything or something happens. I will not hesitate to come here. Doon lang ako" he pointed my glass window, where his condo is.
He didn't receive any response from me so he just sighed and put back his cap and glasses on to serve as his disguise.
"I'll get going na. Take care of yourself. Huwag kang papa-gutom" he smiled.
Tell that to yourself.
I watched him as he entered the elevator. He look back at me and waved his hand before the door closed.
When he vanished from my sight, I went back inside my room.
I let my self sleep when I felt my eyes were getting heavy.
---
Days had passed since that happened. And true enough, nawala na ang interes ng mga tao sa'min... sa'kin.
I entered the company and everyone is greeting and smiling at me and that's already enough to ease my thoughts.
Even though two months had passed, I decided to stay here for a while. They might need a helping hand, so here I am again, sitting comfortably on my chair.
Ilang beses nang sumubok si Greggy na kausapin ako pero hindi niya magawa. But I think naubos na ang pasensiya niya ngayon.
He pulled my arm and walked outside. "Greggy ano ba, get your hands off me!" I said while trying my best to hold on to the door.
He did let go of me but when he did, he carried me on his shoulder. "Mag-uusap tayo, sa ayaw at sa gusto mo. Pagod na ako sa kakaiwas mo" he seriously said.
Wala na akong nagawa nang sumara ang pintuan ng elevator. I stood on the corner silently, with a frown on my face.
The elevator opened at the roof top. Magaling. Siniguradong wala akong takas.
Right there and then I lost my temper. "Ano bang kailangan mo? This past few months wala ka nang ibang ginawa kundi guluhin ang buhay at nararamdaman ko!" sumbat ko.
"For pete's sake Greggy matagal na tayong tapos! Why don't you just focus on your current relationship and stop giving me mixed signals dahil gulong-gulo na ako. Tahimik na buhay lang naman ang hinihingi ko Greggy, mahirap ba 'yon? Look what happened, nadamay pa 'ko sa inyo! Pinagpiyestahan na naman ng mga tao ang buhay ko!"
"I don't know what's your reason and you keep on bugging me. Dapat nga galit ka sa'kin eh! Dapat galit ka sa'kin dahil sa pag-iwan ko sa'yo at pagtapos sa relasiyon natin noon!"
I saw him clenched his jaw. "You're right. I should be mad at you... but I just can't. Kahit na anong pagkumbinsi ko sa sarili ko na magalit sa'yo, wala talaga. My love for you is too strong that I can't be mad at you. Siguro nga galit ako. Pero galit ako sa ginawa mo, hindi sa'yo mismo. I hated what you did but I will never hate you."
"My mind keeps on telling me to stop loving you, but my heart always knew that without you, the beat will stop too. I tried my best to get rid of my feelings for you but I just can't. I still choose to hold you tight because my heart still wants you."
His tears started to fall on his cheeks. And so are mine.
"It hurts but I'm still here, just like what I promised before. Ninais ko lang namang magpahinga ng kahit ilang saglit. Kase pagod na pagod na sa'kin yung pahinga ko. I can't blame you kase ako, napagod din ako sa sarili ko noon. Pero I kept on going kase that's what you wanted me to do. Binangon ko yung pabagsak na kompanya. Ipinanalo ko lahat ng laban ko. Tinupad ko lahat ng iyon Irene, hoping that if I did all that, you'll be back. I even thought that if I can't hold you in my arms anymore, maybe my prayers can." he sniffed.
"You see, Irene, the moon that you love every night is still the same. But... am I still your moon? Am I still the best light of your darkest life? Or am I just one of the thousand stars now?" he looked straight in my eyes.
I looked down. I can't meet his eyes. Bakit ngayon pa? Nasasany na ako sa unti-unting pagbabago ng ikot ng tinuring kong mundo eh.
"You can't just tell me all of that Greggy. I told you, just focus on your relationship now. Ayokong pumagitna sa inyo. And then what, people will be mad again? No, ayoko na." I uttered.
"Walang mangyayaring kasal" he said that made me stiffened. "We are doing our best to stop the wedding. Everything is just fake"
Nag-angat ako ng tingin sa kanya. What?
"It was an arranged marriage and we both don't want it. We are just putting up a show and make everyone believe, just like what our fathers wanted. I promised myself, wala akong ibang dadalhin sa altar kung hindi ikaw lang" he held my hand. "Irene please, wag mo naman akong itulak palayo. I've waited for so long to make it all up to you."
I shook my head and bowed my head as tears stream down to my face.
"Am I selfish for wanting the person who hurt me feel the same pain I've been through when she broke me? Masama bang hilingin na maging akin ka ulit kahit matinding sakit na ang kapalit?" he cried.
"Tama na Greggy..."
"If pain is the only way to open my eyes to see the truth in life, then please, hurt me more, hurt me again, I'm willing to cry for you. I'm willing to be hurt and cry again as long as you'll be back to me."
he cried harder.
I burst into tears because I ran out of words.
"Irene," he called me again.
"Pwede ba, Greggy! Tumigil ka na. Kung wala na, wala na talaga, bakit ba ang kulit mo! I spent a long time fixing myself, wag mo namang guluhin pa!" I yelled at him.
"So I am just a burden to you? Is that it?" he asked. "Then why did you let me do all those things? Bakit hinayaan mong mapalapit ulit ako? Why did you let something happened to us?"
"That was just a mistake!" I said that made him stopped. "Nagpadala ako at pinagsisihan ko 'yon! Mali yon Greggy! Maling-mali!"
He scoffed bitterly. "Isa lang pala akong pagkakamali sa'yo" biglang nanlamig ang tingin niya sa'kin. "You're really good in hurting me"
"Sorry if you only see me as a burden and a mistake. I'm sorry for pestering your life. Don't worry, the time will come. Mawawala din ako sa buhay mo" he added.
I didn't respond and just stormed out.
---
Greggy's POV
I watch her walk away from me. That was unexpected.
Mistake pala.
Ginusto mo yan Greggy, mag-dusa ka. May pa- 'hurt me more, hurt me again' ka kasing nalalaman my mind whispered.
I thought I already had a chance. Akala ko lang pala iyon.
After walking out, I felt a weight in my heart. Something that I've been feeling for a while, since the day she left me.
The only thing that I can think of was the way she looked at me.
Where was those soft eyes that used to look at me with full of love? Those weren't the same eyes that looked at me when we're still together.
Instead, she looked at me the same way a year ago. I am reminded of my mistake, the reason why she let go. I never wanted to see that look again.
It's stupid to think of this but I thought I'd see her sweet eyes again.
Hay Irene, ang hirap mo namang mahalin.
I became the happiest person when I had you as my world, now I'm the saddest person fighting alone with the whole world.
I never thought that the reason behind my smile is the same reason why I cry. Pero okay lang...
It's okay... I like the pain because I love the person more than the pain. I can't hate my love that's why I just smile when she hurts me.
I survived hundred of nights debating whether I should give in or not with the faintest hope of everything becoming better... mangyayari pa kaya yun?
I sat down and looked up in the sky. Looks like it's about to rain.
Kahit ang langit, sumasabay sa nararamdaman ko.
"Mr. President, Sir, yung anak ninyo, nananakit na naman" pagka-usap ko sa langit na tila nagsusumbong.
"Tulungan niyo naman ako oh. What should I do now? Is this a sign to give up?"
But no! Giving up is not in my vocabulary.
I am an Araneta and an Araneta will do everything to make things happen. My way.
I look stupid here, all alone, talking to myself.
Mahal ko ba talaga?
Higit pa sa sobra.
Mahal ba ako?
Edi aray kapag hindi.
---
Third Person's POV
Treating each other like a stranger became the habit of Greggy and Irene. Even in work, they barely look at each other. It's been weeks and they're getting used to it, even the employees.
It's two o'clock and everyone is gathered in the conference room for a meeting.
Zackarie, being a good friend, pulled Irene inside. She had no choice but to sit in the meeting. Again.
His friends are also present. Thiago, Felix, Beatrice, Xylyx, and even some investors, including Veronica and Keanu.
Beatrice is the one who texted Xylyx earlier.
Beatrice:
Mukhang may lumalandi sa fiancé mo.
1:53 p.m
Xylyx:
The real one or the fake one? 😂😂
1:54 p.m
Beatrice:
The fake one. Irene is here but I think they're not in good terms na naman. LQ ata.🤭
1:54 p.m
Xylyx:
Lagi na lang magka-away. Nauubusan na ako ng idea sa kanilang dalawa. Hindi ko naman pinangarap maging kupido but here I am.🙄
1:55 p.m
With that, Xylyx rushed to the company. Everyone was shocked pa nga eh.
When the meeting ended, they stayed in the room for a while.
Beatrice noticed Veronica flirting with Greggy so she leaned towards Xylyx.
"May nararamdaman akong malandi at masamang espiritu banda rito" she pointed Veronica's place. "We need to talk outside"
Xylyx nodded. "We'll just go outside, may pag-uusapan lang kami" she informed them.
Before heading out, they both pulled Thiago and Felix with them. Zack was about to follow them but he remembered Irene, if he'll leave her, she'll definitely run away.
"Don't tell me ako lang ang nakakapansin?" Beatrice started.
"She's so clingy, and so landi. Just like you noon" Thiago chuckled.
Beatrice raised her eyebrow. "Excuse me? What did you just say?"
"Totoo kaya. Lapit ka ng lapit kahit may Irene siya noon" Felix agreed.
"Whatever. At least may character developement ako. See, I'm even helping them both to get back together. Ako kaya vice president ng fansclub nila, president itong si Xy." she grinned. "So? What's our plan?"
"Ano ba yan. Mas prino-problema ko pa lovelife ni Gregorio kaysa sa lovelife ko" Thiago frowned.
"Wala ka nun, wag kang mag-alala" panggagatong pa ni Felix na ikinatawa nila Xylyx.
"Ang sama-sama niyo sa'kin" Thiago said like a kid. "Pag ako nagka-love life, who you kayo sa'kin. Sige na latag niyo na plano niyo para kay Araneta"
"We'll just talk to Veronica first. Kapag hindi siya madaan sa usap, doon lang tayo gagalaw" Xylyx uttered.
"Ay usap lang? Sayang, ready pa naman manampal itong palad ko. Maybe next time" Beatrice said.
They went back inside so they won't be suspiscious. Patuloy pa rin ang paglapit ni Veronica kay Greggy habang buryong-buryo naman ang lalaki.
Irene on the other hand noticed what's happening but she decided to ignore it and just talked to Keanu.
That made Greggy frown his face. Irene talking and laughing with another man but she can't even look nor even smile at him.
"Who picked these designs?" Irene asked Zack while checking the folder.
"Sila" he answered, referring to Veronica.
"It does not suit the place. It's too much." she commented.
Little did theu know that everyone heard them talking.
"No one asked you" Veronica said.
Irene looked at her and raised her brows.
"Lagot, nagtaray na siya" Thiago whispered to Greggy. He just stared at her and trying to hide his smiles.
"I don't need someone to ask whenever I want to say something" she uttered and rolled her eyes.
Veronica ignored her gaze and was embarassed because of that.
When they decided to leave, the four stayed at the glass door.
"Don't worry, we got you" Thiago told Irene when she's about to go out.
"What?" she was puzzled.
Agad naman siyang siniko ng tatlo. "Wala, sabi ko ang ganda mo" bawi niya.
When she finally left, inabangan nila si Veronica.
"Hey, can we have, like, a minute with you?" Felix asked her.
"Oh. If it isn't Greg's friends. What can I do for you" she smiled but of course it was fake.
"Please stop talking to Greggy as if you're someone special" diretsang sabi ni Xylyx. Even the three of them were shocked.
"And why do I have to do that? For your information, we are doing business here. Why will I not talk to him?" Veronica raised her brow.
"Malandi na nga, maldita pa" Beatrice whispered.
"Nakakinis 'no? Ramdam mo na ba inis namin sa'yo noon?" Thiago whispered back.
It's a good thing Veronica can not understand Filipino language. She just looked at them while still raising her brow.
"If you want to continue being an investor here, I suggest you stop making eyes at him and keep your hands to yourself. You came here for work right? He's not part of your 'work' so back off. He's into someone else and that someone isn't you. Try to tell him about this and I'll bring you down, I promise" after that, Xylyx smile so sweetly.
Veronica immediately left and they were left there laughing.
"Ang galing mo umarte, bakit di ka mag-singer?" Thiago joked.
"Okay ba yun?" Xylyx also laughed.
"Ang galing mo! Idol na talaga kita." Felix said.
---
After the meeting, they went back to work and Greggy's friends already left the building.
Minutes later, for the first time since they comfronted each other at the rooftop, Greggy went to their floor.
"Naligaw ka yata Boss? Tagal mong di pumunta dito ah. Miss ka na namin" Zack said.
"Stop it, silly. I reviewed these files already. I was waiting for you to get it from my office but you didn't came so I decided to just gave it to you directly." he half smiled.
"Ay iba na? Ako na ang pinupuntahan mo dito ah. Iba na yan Greggy, sinasabi ko sa'yo hindi na ako available" Zack teased him but Greggy just shook his head.
"Bihis na bihis ka, may date ka ba?" he added.
"What do you think?" Greggy smirked. He then leave Zack there and went towards the table he's been using whenever he's here.
"Excuse me. Can you please move aside? I can't really walk since you're blocking my way" he seriously uttered.
Irene looked at him before pushing her chair backwards. After Greggy took his things, he left. Irene just watch him treat her differently now.
---
Irene stretched her arms and sighed heavily. She's in a bad mood because recently, Greggy has been giving her a lot of work.
Greggy came in earlier and brought her more files to work on. The employees are fighting the urge to help her because Greggy stopped them.
"I'm so tired and hungry!" she shut her eyes close.
She stood up to get coffee and her jaw dropped when she saw Greggy near the doorway, looking at her.
Sa mga ganitong sitwasyon noon, pagkain ang dala ni Greggy para sa kaniya, pero ngayon, trabaho na.
---
Few days later, the department became busy again. The usual, Greggy, still, didn't approve their design.
"Ikaw na mag-pasa" an architect said.
"Eh? Ikaw na. Baka mamaya galit na naman si Boss, sa'kin pa ibuntong. Kaya niyo na yan." the other one said.
"Tapos na akong mag-pasa 'no! Sino pa bang hindi?"
Irene heard them talking so she approached them.
"Ah, Miss Irene, kayo po pala."
"I didn't intend to gossip but, you were talking about passing the design? He still didn't approved them?" she asked.
"Hindi pa po eh. Pero he already approved two."
"Ako na magpapasa. I'll talk to him about this." she insisted.
"Wag na po, nakakahiya."
"It's okay" she gets the file from them and went to Greggy's office.
Ever since the scene from the rooftop. Greggy stopped everything that he does before.
Ang pagbibigay ng snacks at luch, pagbibigay ng flowers, chocolates, notes, pagtambay niya dito, pagpapadala ng mensahe, everything!
In just one snap, they're gone.
Or should I say, with just Irene's words, they're all gone.
He already stopped. Just like what she said.
The employees were saddened by the fact that they don't get to see them together again.
They both give each other cold shoulder everytime they're in the same place. Like nothing really happened between them.
The question is, can they really last long with those kind of acts? Mapapanindigan nga ba nila?
When she arrived in his floor, she heaved a sigh. She'll face him again.
"Good afternoon Miss." Josh greeted and she just smiled. She went inside and she immediately caught Greggy's attention.
"What do you need?" he asked.
She placed the papers on his table. "Pinagpuyatan ng mga architects 'yan" she said.
Binuklat ni Greggy ang mga papel at tinignan isa-isa. "Too simple, may kulang. Tell them to do it again"
Kumunot ang noo ni Irene dahil dito. "Anong too simple eh ang ganda na nga. Ilang beses ka nang nagpapaulit-ulit sa kanila, Greggy. Can't you apreciate their works? Akala mo ba madali lang at saka ang dami mo pang pinapagawa."
"That's their work, 'wag ka nang maki-alam. No one is stopping you to help them but you don't have anything to say about what design should I accept. Now if you don't mind, I'm kind of busy right now." he replied.
Irene gritted her teeth out of frustration. She feels like Greggy is doing this because of their personal issue.
"Such an unprofessional man. Dinadamay ang personal na buhay sa trabaho" she whispered before going outside.
---
Irene's POV
It's Thursday but I decided not to go to work, but instead, I went home to the mansion.
I have nothing to do naman sa work, so why not.
Mag-iisang buwan na, na malamig ang pakikitungo sa'kin ni Greggy. I don't know if I can call it 'pakikitungo' dahil hindi naman niya ako kinakausap o nginingitian man lang.
Well, I guess I should be glad? Na hindi na niya ako kinukulit? Right.
But I kinda miss how he treats me back then... I miss him.
I remembered how much I hurted him. Big time. I can still recall how pain crossed his eyes.
I have no choice that day, hindi ko naman yun ginusto eh. It just came out from my mouth.
I sighed and sat on the hammock chair. I am all alone here since Mommy went somewhere and my siblings will only come here on or before weekend.
May dalawang maid lang na naiwan dito dahil may iniutos si Mommy sa iba kanina.
I furrowed my brows when I noticed my dog, Hades. He's vomitting again!
The maids told me that he's been feeling sick since yesterday. I thought he just ate something bad and will be okay once he spit it out but no! Nanghihina na siya dahil hindi pa kumakain simula kahapon at nailabas na niya ata lahat ng laman ng tiyan niya.
I already gave him his medicine but I think it didn't work. I watched him as he went to his own bed.
I continued eating my sandwich and reading my book. Few minutes later, I turned to him again to check him. I was alarmed when he's not moving a muscle.
Oh hell no!
I hurriedly went to my room to get my phone. I tried to call our drivers but they're not answering. I went to the maids to ask but they told me, they are on leave except for only one, and he's with Mommy right now.
Bakit ngayon pa!
I can't drive right now. Hindi kalmado ang utak ko!
I also tried to call my friends pero wala. Sila Conrad, Lindsay, and even my siblings. None of them are responding to my calls.
I started to bawl my eyes out because of it.
My hands moved on it's own and pressed a number.
Thank God he answered!
"What?" he coldly asked which made my sobs even louder. "H-hey, are you crying? Where are you, pupuntahan kita"
I keep on crying when I heard him getting worried. "S-si Hades..." I uttered between my sobs. "Please h-help him"
"Alright, I'll be there in five. You're in the mansion, right? Papunta na 'ko" dinig ko ang pagsara ng pinto at tunog ng elevator.
He didn't end the call even if he's already in his car. I know he's driving fast, just by hearing the sound of his engine.
While waiting for him, I tried to wake Hades up but he won't.
Maya-maya pa, I heard footsteps. "Irene! I'm here, tama na" he went straight to me and wiped my tears. "What happened?"
"He's been v-vomitting since yesterday. I saw him vomit again kanina, may dugo-dugo pa and I t-thought he just went to sleep, when I checked on h-him again, he's n-not m-moving na!" I cried.
"Shh, stop crying na. We'll bring him to the vet. He'll be alright." he said and hugged me.
Gumaan ang pakiramdam ko sa sinabi niya. He carried Hades and I followed him to his car.
When we got in the vet, they immediately checked Hades and we just stayed in the waiting area.
"Kumain ka na ba? Are you hungry? Do you want anything?" Greggy asked me.
I just shook my head and kept quiet. All I can think right now is Hades.
When the doctor went out, I rushed into her. "How's my baby, doc?"
"He's fine now. He just pass out dahil sa panghihina. I believe nailabas na niya ang nakain niya na mali. He opened his eyes na kanina, now he's just sleeping" she answered.
I felt relief when I found out that my Hades is okay now. They led us to the room but we can't go inside yet so we just look at him through a glass window. There was an iv dextrose inserted in his arm.
My poor baby.
We just talked to the doctor and she said we can bring him home later. Ibabalik siya kapag hindi pa siya ayos.
He just need to regain his strength, he'll be back soon to his old and healthy body.
"Hades is a strong one" I heard Greggy said. He's beside me while looking at Hades. The doctor said kasi that most of the pets that experienced the same as Hades didn't make it. Hindi daw nila nalabanan.
"He doesn't want to leave his Mom because he knows you'll be unhappy" he added.
A few hours later, they already let us inside. Hades is awake now, but still lying down. He wagged his tail slightly when he saw us.
"Hey there little one, magpalakas ka na ha para makauwi na tayo mamaya" Greggy uttered and carressed his head.
When the doctor said that we can now go home, Greggy carried him while I carry his dextrose. We got home in no time.
He slowly placed Hades on his bed inside my room. The other dogs was confused on what happened to Hades but they were happy when they saw Greggy.
They attacked him with hugs and kisses. Obviously, they missed him... badly.
Mag-didilim na nang mapag-desisyonan niyang umuwi. God, we didn't notice the time. He was enjoying catching up with the dogs.
But I was shocked when I saw Mommy in the sala. She looked up while we go down the staircase. By the look on her face, she's surprised as well.
"Good evening po" he greeted my Mom.
"Good evening hijo" my mother greeted him back.
Shut up lang ako dito sa likod.
"Buti napadalaw ka" Mommy smiled.
"Ah, Irene called me po, we just brought Hades to the vet because he was unconscious earlier Tita" he smiled and scratched his head.
"Really? How's your baby then?" Mommy asked.
We were both taken back and looked at each other that made my mother chuckle.
"Fur baby, I mean" she giggled.
"Hades is fine now Mommy. He's in my room, you can go check him. Greggy's going home na rin, ihahatid ko na sa labas" I said.
"Why don't you stay for dinner hijo. It's been a while since the last meal you had here" Mom ignored me and just focused on talking to Greggy.
Wag kang papayag!
He looked at me and smirked. "I would love to Tita" he said.
Aba! Sabing huwag eh!
"Great! Sumunod na kayong dalawa sa kusina ha" Mommy said and left.
"Didn't you tell me may aasikasuhin ka pa?" pigil ko sa kaniya nang umakto siyang susunod na siya sa kusina.
"May sinabi ba ako?" he acted like he's thinking. "And besides, work can wait, the food can not. Let's go." he held my hand and pulled me.
I felt an electricity flowed to my body the moment that he touched my hand.
He pulled a chair for me... just like what he always do. Mommy was just watching us with a smile on her face.
Mommy tumigil ka!
"So, how are you? How's life now?" panimulang tanong ni Mommy.
I started eating when the food was served. Hinayaan ko silang magkamustahan at magkuwentuhan, I just kept quiet and will just speak when needed.
---
"Thank you po Tita. I hope there'll be more 'next time'" Greggy chuckled and waved his hand to my mother
"Of course hijo, there will be. Balik ka ha" she waved back.
Nang makapag-paalam na siya kay Mommy at sa mga aso, I volunteered to walk him outside, where he parked his car.
"Thank you for calling me earlier" he uttered.
"Oh. I'm sorry about that, I had no choice because I can't contact anyone. Sorry again, I think I disturbed you on your work" I uttered.
"No, it's okay. Kailan man ay hindi ka magiging istorbo sa'kin." he smiled.
Darn it! Yang ngiti mo!
"Uh, Irene. Can I talk to you? Kahit saglit lang" he added.
I shut my mouth and just let him talk.
"About what happened before, sa rooftop..." he gulped. "I was just so desperate to talk to you that time so I dragged you with me. Gulong-gulo na kasi ako sa kung anong meron tayo. For a minute, we're okay, you're letting me close to you and afterwards, galit ka na naman sa'kin. Thoughts about you won't let me sleep at night Irene, so I did the least thing you would like."
"I take back the thing I told you that I will stop, that I won't bother you anymore kasi hindi ko talaga kaya. I was looking for a way to tell you this and I am beyond happy that you called me earlier and even asked me to be here. Dahil dito, mas tumibay yung belief ko na meron pa talagang chance. But I won't force you, I'll patiently wait."
"Gusto kong buuin mo muna yung sarili mo, at kapag handang-handa kana, nandito lang ako, naghihintay sa'yo." he smiled.
I don't know but I felt my eyes become teary because of his words.
Grabe ka na Gregorio!
"I--uhm-- I don't know what to say" is the only thing that came out from my mouth.
"Hush. You don't have to say anything. Hearing me out is more than okay. At least now I already said what I wanted to say" he smiled.
"I will get out from that engagement and I will court you again. I will not stop now, no matter what. Aayusin ko lang lahat ng gusot, before I make you mine again. Xylyx will help me clear your name to the public. We'll make sure they will not say anything bad about you" his voice is full of determination and assurance.
"I'll go now para makapag-pahinga ka na rin. Don't worry too much na kay Hades, I'll visit you guys again tomorrow. Okay lang ba?" paalam niya.
I slowly nodded.
Sure, why not.
He hugged me and planted a kiss on my head before sliding himself inside his car. He pressed the horn twice before driving away.
"Ingat..." I silently uttered while watching his car leave.
Nang maka-pasok ako sa loob, ginulat pa ako ni Mommy.
"Naka-alis na?" she asked so I nodded. "Ano sabi niya?"
"Sino?"
"Yung mga halaman sa labas, baka naka-usap mo sila" she frowned. "Siyempre si Greggy.
Oh. Ayan na naman ang pilosopo kong ina.
"He'll visit Hades again daw tomorrow"
"Si Hades nga lang ba?" she oscillated her eyebrows.
"S-syempre sila Persephone din and yung ibang dogs"
"The dogs huh" she kept on smirking.
"Mommy naman eh!" I whined.
"Okay I'll stop na" she giggled. She then sighed. "Hay, anak" she started. I can already feel na magda-drama siya.
"You're already a grown up na talaga. If only I can stop the time so you'll be my baby forever. Pero soon, magkaka-apo na ako sa'yo" kunwaring naiiyak na sabi niya. "I wonder when will that happen. This year? Next year?"
"Stop it Mom. Single ako, paano kita mabibigyan ng apo"
"Nandiyan naman si Greggy, hihintayin ka daw" she said that made me widen my eyes.
She heard us kanina?
She chuckled and went closer to me. "Malaki ka na anak, alam mo na ang ginagawa mo, but I want to tell you something. Follow what makes you happy. And I can see happiness whenever you look at him. Destiny may not be good to the both of you the last time, maybe now, it's the right time. Ayusin niyo ang dapat niyong ayusin, I know he'll give you genuine happiness, just like what your father wanted." she embraced me before going to her room.
I was left there, dumbfounded.
Follow what makes me happy? He really is my happiness. But...
Am I ready for love now?
Is he really serious?
Should we really try again?
What if we failed again?
What if destiny won't let us be happy again?
What if we'll be ruined again?
What if I'll be hurt again?
What if...
***********************************************************************************