Laurice.
Sebastian didn't fail to leave me mouth-opened as he guided me through each room of our home. The entire house felt like a reflection of the two of us, a perfect mix of his essence and mine. The fact that he had me in mind when this house was built is a proof that his love for me never wavered. Pinili niya pa ring isama ako sa mga pangarap niya despite of the uncertainty of our future together.
Nakangiting inilahad ni Sebastian ang kaniyang kamay sa harapan ko, it was as if he was relieved to see a pleased expression on my face after showing me around the house. "Come, there's still a room I haven't showed you yet."
"Why is there a lot of rooms here?" Naniningkit ang mga matang tanong ko but I still accepted his hand anyway. Agad naman niyang pinagsiklop ang mga kamay naming dalawa at tsaka tumawa ng mahina.
"The first 3 rooms that I showed you are for our children," He paused for a while. "While this one, it's for you."
As soon as we got inside of it, a familiar warmth enveloped my body as I let my eyes wander to drink in the details of the room. Every corner, every item, was bathed in soft pastel hues, with pink being the dominant color. The entire room was like a palette that consists every color that I like. It was as if he peeked into my heart and painted my dreams onto the walls.
"I took the color of your old room as a reference. At first I was hesitant to do that, but seeing your room in NYC, I was convinced I made the right choice. It seems like you haven't outgrown your love for these colors." Sebastian thoroughly explained as I roamed my twinkling eyes in every corner of the room.
Is he talking about the room that I had in that old house? Kung ganon, I never thought of Sebastian as the observant type. Isang beses lang naman siya nakapasok sa kwarto ko at iyon ay noong senior high pa kami, noong naabutan siya ni Cassie sa loob ng kwarto ko, pero natatandaan niya pa pala ang lahat ng iyon.
His gesture made me deeply moved. It wasn't just about the colors or the items in the room, it was the thought that he put when he created this space for me despite of not having any means of communication with me for 10 long years.
Kinabukasan, sinadya kong magising ng maaga. I've always wanted to cook breakfast for Sebastian but my schedule in New York just wouldn't let me. Other than getting my stuff and checking out of the hotel I stayed at, I don't have any other plans for this morning kaya kayang-kaya ko itong gawin para sa kaniya ngayon. Mamayang hapon pa ang susunod kong lakad, I will look for a gift that I will give to Sebastian since it's his 29th birthday tomorrow. Medyo napepressure nga ako dahil hindi ko alam kung anong klaseng regalo ang ibibigay ko sa isang tulad niya.
[Hey everyone, it's Yssa! Get ready with me for a dinner date with my soon-to-be fiance's family!]
Random videos played on YouTube as I prepared everything that I needed for the breakfast that I'll be cooking. At dahil abala ako sa pangungusina, I wasn't able to pay attention to every video that played on my phone so it only served as a background noise while I was cooking. Ilang videos pa ang nagdaan bago tuluyang mamatay ang phone ko dahil wala namang nanonood.
The soft morning light started to penetrate through the glass walls as I stood at the sink, washing the kitchen utensils I used. The sound of flowing water and birds chirping outside were like music to my ears. It's been a while since the last time I felt this peaceful during a weekday morning. I normally wake up earlier than my alarm but I still always end up rushing because that's just the nature of being a nurse. But today was different, it seemed like the time itself allowed me to move at my own pace. I was not familiar with the feeling of not chasing anything at all yet somehow, it felt liberating.
Lost in my own thoughts, I suddenly felt a pair of warm hands wrapping around my waist from the back. I didn't have to turn my head to know who it was. Of course it was him, my boyfriend, he was the only person who could give me such sense of comfort with only one touch.
"Good morning, gorgeous." I heard him whisper in my ear, his warm breath softly touching my skin.
I turned my head to the side a little bit to plant a soft kiss on his cheek. "Good morning, love."
Sebastian volunteered to take care of the food that I cooked while I washed the dishes. I declined his help but he still insisted to do it because according to him, he just couldn't allow himself to just sit and watch especially when I'm doing something for him.
"Mahal, do you want coffee?" He asked after he got two mugs out of the dish cabinet in the kitchen. "Or milk?" Dagdag na katanungan niya pa.
Sandali tuloy akong napaisip dahil doon. But unfortunately, my indecisiveness suddenly took over my body. "Uh... hindi ko alam, love."
"Hmm, ok. I'll get to choose for you then." He gently replied as he proceeded to prepare our morning beverages. The soothing sound of the spoon swirling in the cups instantly brought a warm smile on my face. Facing towards the sink suddenly felt like a fortune because it hid my flushed cheeks away from his eyes.
Why do we seem like a married couple right now?!
"How... is it?" I carefully asked as I watched Sebastian munch on the food that I cooked. Beef pares, garlic fried rice, at mainit-init na sabaw lang naman ang mga iyon but I wanted to know kung nagustuhan niya ang timpla ko.
My lips parted slightly as I observed how his eyebrows formed a deep furrow when he sampled the dish I prepared, allowing his palate to relish each flavor thoughtfully. As time goes by, I started to feel conscious kasi baka hindi niya nagustuhan ang luto ko. Pipigilan ko na sana siyang magpatuloy roon but before I could, he suddenly took another spoonful of the dish instead.
"Wow," He uttered beyond belief. Napaawang ang bibig ko habang nakikipagtitigan niya, confused as to why he looks so surprised when he tasted everything. "Baby, to say that your cooking is delicious would be an understatement." He stated with wide eyes as he continued to dig himself in the food that I prepared for him.
Napatawa naman ako dahil doon, baka mamaya ay todo comfort lang siya sa'kin ngayon dahil ayaw niya akong madiscourage sa cooking skills ko. "Oh come on, Sebastian. Be for real right now." Mapang-asar na wika ko.
He confusingly looked at me as if he could not figure out why I said that. "I'm telling the truth, babe. You know I'm not the type to sugarcoat. Believe me when I say your cookings taste exactly like lola's." He casually responded. Saglit na tinangu-tanguan niya pa ako bago siya magpatuloy sa pagkain, as if he wanted me to let that sink in to my mind.
Napaawang ang bibig ko nang mapagtantong hindi nga nagbibiro si Sebastian nang hindi niya bawiin ang kaniyang sinabi. Sapat na sa'king magustuhan niya ang luto ko, I was already satisfied knowing that my cooking wasn't terrible, but being complimented that my cooking is just like his grandmother's feels especially better.
"You're blushing."
Bigla akong natauhan nang magsalita si Sebastian na kanina pa pala nakatingin sa'kin. Agad naman akong napairap sa kaniya, walang balak umamin na kinilig nga ako roon sa sinabi niya kahit na alam ko namang halata iyon sa mukha ko ngayon dahil sa init ng magkabilang pisngi ko. "H-hindi, ah!" Depensa ko sa sarili ko dahilan para matawa siya.
"Eat up, matatapos na ko rito pero wala pa ring bawas 'yang sa'yo." Umiiling-iling na sambit niya at tsaka itinaas ang kaniyang kutsara. "Or do you want me to feed you pa?" Mapang-asar na dagdag niya pa dahilan para manlaki ang mga mata ko. "Sabihin mo la-"
Hindi ko na siya pinansin sa halip ay sinimulan ko na agad kumain dahilan para mas lalo siyang matawa bago niya napag-isipang magpatuloy sa pagkain. My nonchalant boyfriend can be talkative sometimes!
Matapos ang ilang subo ay nahagip ng mug na nasa harapan ng plato ko ang aking attention. The bittersweet scent wafting from the steaming beverage aroused my appetite. Its creamy and rich texture immediately enveloped my mouth upon taking a sip of it.
"I decided to just mix the two since you didn't know what to choose."
Sebastian commented as I gently blew on the remaining drink that he prepared for me. The taste was so satisfying and I couldn't get enough of it, I wish I could drink this every morning.
"This is so good, love." I gave him my honest opinion about the drink. "You could be a barista!" A giggle escaped my lips.
Napangiti naman siya dahil sa narinig, nakahalukipkip na ngayon sa harapan ko. "Thanks, baby. I think I learned from the part time job I took back when we were in senior highschool."
Napatango-tango naman ako dahil doon ngunit agad akong napatigil nang may maalala ako dahil sa sinabi niya. Napaawang ang kaniyang bibig nang mapansin niya ang pagkunot ng noo ko habang nakatingin sa kaniya.
"Baste! Nandito ka na pala anak. Saan ka ba nanggaling?"
"Diyan lang sa tabi, mom."
"Ay sus. Baka naman nakipagdate ka lang sa girlfriend mo ha? Baka mamaya 'di ka na nagsasabi sa'kin!"
Wala naman siyang sinasabi sa mga kaibigan namin e...
But what if meron?
Agad naman akong napaiwas ng tingin nang bigla niyang salubungin ang mga mata ko. My God, sana hindi halatang hinihintay ko ang sagot niya!
"Yes I did. What's wrong with that? I'm 18."
Napakurap-kurap si Sebastian sa'kin nang matahimik ako ng ilang segundo. "W-what with that stare, baby? You're scaring me..."
Now that I think of it, why did he lie about having a girlfriend that time? Alam niya bang crush ko na siya noong panahong iyon kaya sinadya niyang sabihin iyon para masaktan ako? O may iba pang dahilan? I suddenly remember how fuming mad... and hurt I was that time tuloy! I was so young, I didn't know how to properly handle the pain of rejection kasi parang nareject ako kahit hindi naman ako nagconfess sa kaniya. It was my first ever rejection without confessing anything at all, it was one of the darkest moments I had as a teenager!
Napairap tuloy ako ng wala aa oras kay Sebastian na halatang gulong-gulo na ngayon dahil mukhang hindi niya mabasa ang iniisip ko. "I hate you, you meanie." Mataray kong sambit sa kaniya at nagpatuloy sa pagkain nang hindi siya pinapansin.
Sebastian scoffed as if he couldn't believe that I'm showing him my attitude right now when I was literally just smiling and all lovey-dovey few minutes earlier! "Women and their mood swings." Umiiling-iling na sambit niya at tsaka tumayo sa kaniyang upuan para tabihan ako.
Agad naman akong umurong palayo sa kaniya matapos niyang umupo sa bakanteng upuan na nasa tabi ko ngunit hinila niya lang ang upuan ko pabalik sa kaniyang tabi ng walang kahirap-hirap. Talaga naman, oh!
"What now?" Mataray na tanong ko sa kaniya habang nakakibit-balikat. Mas lalong nagsalubong ang kilay ko nang mas lalo lamang lumawak ang ngiti sa mga labi niya nang hindi inaalis ang kaniyang paningin sa'kin, halatang tuwang-tuwa pa sa nakikita niya!
"Galit na galit si mochi, oh." Nagpipigil ng tawa niyang sambit.
Mochi? Ano 'yon? Naging girlfriend niya lang ako, now he has the audacity to call me names? What the hell?!
"Ewan ko sa'yo." Nakasimangot na sambit ko at tatayo na sana nang bigla niyang hawakan ang kamay ko.
"I'm just kidding, baby." Ramdam kong nakangiti pa rin siya nang sabihin niya iyon kahit na hindi ako nakatalikod ako sa kaniya. Nakasimangot na napaharap ako sa kaniya nang maramdaman ko ang kaniyang mga labi sa likod ng palad ko. "Sit with me, please? I have to tell you something."
Palibhasa alam na alam mo kung paano ako kukunin, e.
Nagsusungit-sungitan akong bumalik sa pagkakaupo sa kaniyang tabi. "Siguraduhin mong matino 'yang sasabihin mo." Banta ko sa kaniya dahilan para mas lalong lumawak ang ngiti sa labi niya. He gently nodded at me mouthing the word 'promise' without letting go of my hands.
Nang makaupo ako ay hinayaan niya muna akong maging komportable roon bago niya napagpasiyahang bigkasin ang nais niyang sabihin.
"I will officially introduce you to everyone tomorrow."
Agad na naglaho ang kanina'y nakakunot kong noo at napalitan ng labis na pagkagulat nang marinig ang kaniyang sinabi.
"What?" Nanlalaki ang mga matang napatingala ako sa kaniya. It's not that I don't get what he said, sadyang hindi lang maabsorb ng utak ko ang sinabi niya!
"W-what do you mean, Sebastian?" Naguguluhan ko pa, kinakabahan na ngayon. "It's your birthday tomorrow and everyone would be there." Tila nanghihina ko pang dagdag. Napangiti lang siya sa'kin at hinayaan akong magsalita.
"Your grandparents, your friends, your colleagues, business partners, and even influential individuals from the industry that you're in. Lahat, Sebastian." Hindi makapaniwalang pag-iisa-isa ko sa mga taong maaaring dumalo sa kaniyang birthday celebration. Kakayanin ko kaya silang harapin? Mas lalong binalot ang katawan ko nang maisip ko ang grandparents niya. What if... hindi nila ako magustuhan para sa kaniya?
Damn, Laurice. This is what you get for loving a CEO!
"And so?" He asked, showing no signs of being swayed. It even looks like he can't wait any longer for what he's planning to do tomorrow to finally happen!
Sebastian lifted his hand near my face, gently tucking my hair behind my ear. "You deserve to be known by the world, Laurice."
Parang lumulutang ang isip ko the whole time I was inside the car. Sebastian had his personal driver kuya Tomas drive me to the mall that I wanted to go. Kagagaling lang namin sa hotel para ilipat ang iilang mga gamit ko sa bahay ni Sebastian. Ang dami nang nangyari simula noong ipinaalam sa'kin ni Sebastian ang plinaplano niyang gawin bukas ngunit parang hindi pa rin matahimik ang kaluluwa ko dahil sa kaba. The attire that Sebastian provided for me even got delivered before I left the house, it was made by the same famous designers that made his own attire as well. Mukhang handa na ang lahat maliban sa'kin!
"Ma'am Laurice, nandito na po tayo."
Natigilan ako sa kakaoverthink nang marinig kong magsalita si kuya Tomas sa harapan. Agad na napaawang ang bibig ko nang makita ko ang logo ng mall sa labas ng bintana at nasa tapat na pala ang kotse sa central entrance nito.
"O-oh..." Lutang na sambit ko at haharap na sana kay kuya Tomas pero nakababa na pala siya mula sa driver's seat para pagbuksan ako. What the hell, Laurice? Pull your shit together!
Nang makababa ako ng kotse ay agad akong nagpasalamat kay kuya Tomas sa paghatid sa'kin. Tatalikuran ko na sana siya para magtungonsa entrance ng mall matapos naming magpaalam sa isa't isa nang bigla siyang magsalita.
"Sa parking nalang po ako maghihintay, ma'am Laurice." Magalang na sambit niya habang nakangiti. Gulat naman akong napatingin sa kaniya at napataas ng dalawa kong kamay para igalaw-galaw iyon sa harap niya.
"Huwag na po, kuya Tomas. Actually, baka matagalan pa po ako." I awkwardly smiled at him. Posibleng mangyari iyon because I still don't know what exactly should I get for Sebastian. "Maggagrab nalang po ako mamaya." I politely declined.
Napakamot naman si kuya Tomas sa likod kaniyang ulo as he let out an awkward laugh. "Pasensya pero iyon po ang utos ni sir Sebastian, ma'am Laurice. Ayaw niya pong umuwi ka ng mag-isa lalo na't busy siya ngayon at baka malate daw siya ng uwi."
Saglit na napayuko ako as I pressed my lips together, trying to prevent a smile from escaping my lips. Kahit na magkalayo kaming dalawa, priority niya pa rin ang kapakanan ko. That man, really. He's making me fall for him harder every day.
Inilabas ko ang wallet ko at kumuha ng cash doon para iabot kay kuya. "Sige po, kuya Tomas. But please, treat yourself. Baka mabagot ka po sa parking at mainit din doon." Nag-aalala kong wika.
"Hala, 'wag na po, ma'am! May tubig naman po ako sa loob." Nahihiyang sagot ni kuya Tomas at itinuro pa ang isang water bottle doon na paubos na ang laman.
Hinila ko naman ang kamay ni kuya para ilagay roon ang pera para hindi na siya makatanggi pa. "No kuya, I insist." Nakangiting pangungumbinsi ko pa sa kaniya. "I'll just call you pag uuwi na 'ko." Dagdag ko pa.
Nahihiya man, sumilay pa rin ang isang malawak na ngiti sa labi ni kuya Tomas. "Salamat po, ma'am Laurice. Ang bait niyo po pala, bagay na bagay lang kayo ni Sir." Nakangiting aniya.
"Sus, si kuya Tomas nambola pa." Natatawa kong biro sa kaniya. "Oh sige na, mauuna na po ako. Mag-iingat po kayo." Paalam ko sa kaniya.
"Ingat din po kayo, ma'am Laurice." Nakangiting tugon niya naman, mukhang masayang-masaya siya ngayon sa 'di malamang dahilan. "Salamat po ulit." Dagdag niya pa sabay wave sa'kin gamit ang kamay niya kung saan naroon ang cash na ibinigay ko sa kaniya.
Matapos naming magpaalam sa isa't isa ay hindi na ako nagdalawang-isip pang pumasok sa mall. I immediately browsed the screenshots of the gift ideas that I gathered at home earlier but I got discouraged when I realized that he might already have all of the things in the list, especially the expensive ones. And I don't want that. I want to give him something special, something priceless.
I found myself feeling overwhelmed when I ran out of gift ideas that I can give to my boyfriend. Out of defeat, I just hesitantly decided to head to a luxury perfume store, the list I had didn't have any decent options left aside from it so I don't have a choice. But when I was on my way going there, I suddenly stumbled upon a painting event at the mall. It immediately caught my attention and sparked my curiosity. The best part was that it was open to everyone, with a surprisingly affordable rate of just 600 pesos.
I couldn't help but notice how diverse the crowd gathered around as I walked into the event. People of all ages, from kids to teenagers, and even older women and men, were eagerly participating.
"Good afternoon, ma'am! My name is Nica. How can I help you?" I was immediately greeted by one of the event organizers of the painting event. Napatingin ako sa name plate na nakapin sa left side ng kaniyang blue uniform shirt at iyon nga ang nakalagay roon.
"Hello, Nica! I would like to participate. Can you please provide the details on how I can join?"
"Tamang-tama, isang slot nalang po ang natitira. Please follow me po para mairegister namin kayo."
The remaining slot felt like it was meant for me. Marami pang ibang dumating pero dahil wala ng slot ay hindi na sila nakasali pa. I just felt so grateful to stumble upon this event, it perfectly aligned with the kind of gift I desire to give Sebastian for his special day.
The atmosphere got filled with excitement as everyone gathered around their canvases and paintbrushes in hand. The event organizers provided all the necessary painting supplies, ensuring that everyone had everything they needed to create their own masterpiece.
I stared at the blank canvas in front of me. I didn't have to think about what I'll be painting anymore because I already know what I wanted, and I only could think of a particular scenario in mind ever since I got here.
A soft smile graced my lips as I reminisced about that specific moment, magkakasabay kaming umuwi ng mga kaibigan namin noong hapong iyon galing sa paaralan. He was only conversing with our friends just like what we normally do on a daily basis, yet that was when I suddenly got struck by a strange feeling I have never encountered before until that one late afternoon. And now looking back, it has become clear to me that it was the exact moment when I first fell for him, I didn't know that it was the day I fell in love with Sebastian Marcelo Alejandre.
I felt a sense of serenity as I dipped my brush into the palette that has vibrant colors, letting my imagination take over. The event created a warm and welcoming environment where we could express ourselves through art regardless of the level of our skills. I feel so grateful to the person who arranged this therapeutic event. Sayang nga lang at ayaw daw ipaalam ng taong iyon ang pagkakakilanlan niya because according to them, that person wants to maintain a low profile. Masaya na raw ang taong iyon na makitang nag-eenjoy ang mga taong dumalo sa event na ito. To think of it, anong 'makita' ang ibig-sabihin nila? Hindi kaya'y... nandito lang siya kasama namin?
"Laurice,"
I was surprised when I suddenly heard my name from a stranger out of nowhere. I slowly shifted my gaze towards the person sitting next to me, finding an elderly woman who appeared to be in her late 60s. Despite of her old age, it is evident that she retained the beauty and elegance that she had during her youth. I couldn't recall ever having seen her before yet her face seemed oddly familiar to me.
Tinuro niya ang name tag na nakapin sa left side ng damit ko at tsaka natawa nang mabasa niyang tila nagulat ako dahil alam niya ang pangalan ko.
"Oh!" Gulat na puna ko sa sarili ko, nahihiya na ngayon. "Sorry po, may name tag nga pala." An awkward smile formed on my lips as I apologized.
"My apologies. Did I startle you?" Nakangiting tanong niya.
She appears to be genuinely kind, her presence emitting a strong and positive energy. But when I heard her speak with such grace and elegance, I suddenly got intimidated for an unknown reason. Para siyang isang donya kahit na simple lang ang pananamit at sakto lang din ang dami ng mga alahas na kaniyang suot.
"N-no, you didn't po." Magalang na tugon ko sa kaniya. "I was just a bit surprised when I heard someone call my name. It took me a moment to remember that we were all wearing name tags." Awkward na nakangiting dagdag ko pa.
The old lady pursed her lips as she nodded at me. "So you were startled." I heard her murmur but it wasn't clear enough for me to hear.
Hindi na ako napaisip pa kung ano iyon dahil muli siyang nagsalita at tsaka inilahad pa ang kaniyang palad sa harap ko. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Antonia, but you may call me lola Tonia." Nakangiting pagpapakilala niya.
Agad ko namang inabot ang kaniyang kamay para makipaglamano sa kaniya. Malambot ang kaniyang kamay na animo'y hindi iyon nakaranas ng hirap noon. "It's a pleasure to meet you, lola Tonia. My name is Laurice, but you can call me Lori."
Matapos naming maglamano ay napatingin siya sa painting na nasimulan ko. It didn't look awful so I didn't feel any embarrassment when she saw it. For me, it was just alright. I am satisfied with how I blended the colors to depict the sky bathed in the hues of the setting sun. The only problem is that I'm actually having a hard time trying to paint the silhouette figure of Sebastian and myself.
"Do you like painting, Lori? Your artwork is quite impressive." She commented in a gentle tone, her eyes wandering over the unfinished piece in front of me. Her confident gaze suggested like she possesses an expertise in painting.
"Thank you, lola." Nakangiting pagpapasalamat ko. "But this is actually my first time to paint. I'm glad you think it looks good so far."
"You must be a fast learner then, hija." She commented once again, hindi pa rin niya maialis ang kaniyang paningin sa painting ko. "But I can see that you're having hard time with the silhouette of your characters?" Patanong na aniya at tsaka napatingin sa'kin, and that's when I was able to confirm it to myself that she has an expertise in the painting field.
"Kaya nga po, pwede kayang stickman nalang ilagay ko?" Nangungunsumisyong biro ko kay lola. "But that doesn't seem so romantic." Bawi ko naman habang nakanguso nang marealize kong hindi ko maaaring ibigay kay Sebastian ang painting na ito kung hindi ko maayos yung silhouette figures!
Napaawang ang bibig ko nang mapatakip sa kaniyang bibig si lola Tonia gamit ang kaniyang pamaypay na parang ayaw niyang ipahalata sa'king natawa siya roon sa sinabi ko. A subtle smile formed on my lips as I couldn't help but find her absolutely adorable. Napaisip tuloy ako kung kaninong lola si lola Tonia, her grandchild/children for sure is/are lucky to have her as their grandmother. Bigla ko tuloy namiss si lola France, mukhang magkakasundo silang dalawa, e.
"Oh dear, it's my first time seeing you in person but you're already bringing laughter to my heart." Makabuluhang sambit ni lola Tonia at tsaka ipinatong ang kaniyang kamay sa ibabaw ng ulo ko para i-tap iyon ng dalawang beses. Wala man akong maintindihan sa sinabi niya ay nginitian ko na lamang siya pabalik, at least I made her happy.
"Would you like me to lend you a hand?" Tanong pa ni lola Tonia, mas malawak na ang ngiti sa kaniyang mga labi ngayon dahilan para lumiwanag ang mukha ko. Agad akong napatango, walang balak na pakawalan ang oportunidad na maturuan ng isang tulad niya. This is the gift that I'll be giving to Sebastian, and I believe lola Tonia is the best person that could help me with that.
Filled with gratitude, I accepted the support that lola Tonia offered to me. Her wise and experienced hands gently guided mine, delicately shaping the contours and lines that brought the figure to life. Hindi ko mapigilang mamangha habang ginagabayan niya ako sa pagpapainting, she was so gentle with me.
Napainat-inat ako nang sa wakas ay matapos ko na ang painting. To my surprise, the final outcome surpassed my expectations. I knew without a doubt that I could give this artwork to Sebastian as a gift now. I owe it all to Lola Tonia for guiding me throughout the process. Without her help, I wouldn't be so sure if I could still have achieved the result that I was trying to get.
I excitedly turned around to lola Tonia's seat so I could show her the result of my painting but my smile slowly disappeared when I realized that she was gone. Para akong batang naghahanap ng nawawala niyang mga magulang matapos kong ilingon-lingon ang ulo ko sa bawat sulok ng kapaligiran para hanapin siya but I failed.
Napanguso ako at napatingin sa mga kamay kong puno ng pintura. The event was not yet done but lola Tonia was already gone. What made her leave so early? Napagod kaya siya sa kakaupo ng matagal? She's not that young anymore and people could easily get tired at her age. Agad akong binalot ng pag-aalala nang maisip ko iyon. Huwag naman sana. I hope she's ok, wherever she is right now. We won't probably ever see ach other again and it saddens me that I didn't even get to say goodbye to such a wonderful person like her.
Muli ko na sanang itutuon ang aking attention pabalik sa sarili kong painting nang mahagip ng mga mata ko ang canvas na ginamit ni lola Tonia kanina. Her painting was a vast expanse of lush green fields with pristine white daisies, the morning sun casting a gentle glow upon the landscape. Lola Tonia painted the scene as if she encountered someone special in that moment, her reference unexpectedly matching mine.
While I was in awe by the captivating beauty of Lola Tonia's painting, another detail caught my attention. It was the initial of her signature discreetly placed at the lower right side of the artwork, elegantly inscribed as 'A.V.'.
Kinabukasan, nagkita kami ni Cassie dahil sabay kaming magpapasalon ngayong araw para maghanda sa magarbong selebrasyong gaganapin mamayang gabi. Sebastian stayed out all night because he had a lot to do in preparation for today's celebration. He was also handing out invitations with his team to both his personal and professional circles. I actually offered to assist him, but he insisted that I get some rest and take my beauty rest instead.
"Since you'll be officially introduced as the girlfriend of our rich kid friend, you deserve to look extra stunning today!" Cassie giggled habang nakapulupot ang kaniyang kamay sa braso ko na animo'y mas excited pa siya sa'kin. "Sit back and relax, my dearest maid of honor. Let your best friend take the wheel!" Tuwang-tuwang dagdag pa niya habang naglalakad kaming dalawa patungo sa kung saan.
Napaawang ang bibig ko nang huminto kami sa isang luxury salon sa harapan naming dalawa. The glass walls of the salon provided a glimpse of its luxurious interior, a stunning combination of marble and polished steel accents glowed in the afternoon light.
"Mukhang mahal, 'no?" Untag ni Cassie sa'kin habang nakatingin ako sa loob ng salon. Unlike the regular ones, front desk at mga tanim lamang ang makikita mula rito sa labas. I bet they provide private room for their clients for more comfortable and cozy pampering session.
"Mahal talaga. Good thing, libre tayo ni Steven ngayon!" Cassie whispered in my ear as she waved her hand in front of me, hawak-hawak niya roon ang card ng kaniyang fiance. Nanlalaki ang mga matang napatingin ako sa kaniya at hinagilap din ang black card na ipinaabot sa'kin ni Sebastian kay Kai kaninang umaga! Hindi ko pa man nailalabas ang card sa wallet ko, pinanlakihan din ako ni Cassie ng mga mata at napaturo sa'kin. "Don't tell me ikaw din?!"
Napaangat ako ng aking paningin sa kaniya at dahan-dahang napatango. Dahil doon ay napatili sabay hampas nalang kaming dalawa sa isa't isa. Seems like we both bagged provider men!
"Pero paano 'yan, I wasn't planning to use this." Nakokonsensya ko namang sambit. Napangiti naman si Cassie at hinawakan ang magkabila kong braso habang hawak-hawak niya ang kaniyang maliit na designer purse.
"Real men genuinely enjoy spoiling their women, 'no. They're like biologically programmed to want to be their partner's protector and provider if they're really in love." Aniya. "Hindi rin ako pumapayag na ilibre ni Steven dati, pero nagtampo siya at naging cause pa ng away namin 'yon kasi 'di ko siya maintindihan before. Pero 'yon, isa pala sa mga love language nila 'yon, my gosh!"
Napaisip tuloy ako roon sa sinabi niya. Bigla kong naalala si Cedric, the whole time we dated, he never volunteered to pay for the bill. He would always just pretend not to see anything whenever I get my card out of my purse to pay for the food we eat or the places we go to. Hindi naman ako nagrereklamo because I already know that I should be able to provide for my partner as well kung pumasok ako sa isang relasyon, at tsaka may trabaho rin naman ako. But he is employed as well, at mukhang 'di naman siya naghihirap sa buhay. Never niya namang naikwento sa'king may pinagdaanan siyang financial difficulties.
I guess, hindi pa talaga siya sigurado sa'kin noon kaya he didn't want to spend a penny on me kasi baka masayang lang ang perang gagastusin niya kung hindi naman kami magkakatuluyan. It was easy for him to cut ties with me all of a sudden nga, e. My God, bakit ngayon ko lang 'yon narealize? Kaya pala ayaw siya sa'kin nila Ver at Alli!
Tinapik-tapik ni Cassie ang magakbilang balikat ko at tsaka tiningnan ako mata sa mata. "Lori my dear, trust me, barya lang kay Baste lahat ng magagastos mo para sa sarili mo ngayon." Pagcocomfort niya sa'kin sabay tango-tango ng marahan bago niya ako bitawan.
We ended up deciding to pay for ourselves, but using our partner's cards. Cassie was able to convince me to use Sebastian's card after all. Hindi naman palaging ganito, e. I want to make my boyfriend feel like I can rely on him. I think it's healthy para sa pagkalalaki niya.
When we entered the salon, we were immediately greeted by its two professional staff. Cassie was the first one to discuss her desired look and treatment because I didn't know mine yet. Habang nag-uusap sila ay nakinig lang ako habang nag-iisip kung ano ang gusto ko. While Cassie discussed what she wanted, I noticed that the staff provided some recommendations based on her preferences and hair or skin type as well.
"How about you, ma'am Laurice?"
Ang dami nilang pinag-usapan ngunit hanggang sa matapos nalang sila ay hindi pa rin ako nakakapagdesisyon kaya naman nang tanungin nila ako ay parang wala akong maisagot. I guess mommy was right, I was too focused on taking of others for a long time, I already forgot how to take care of myself. Kung nagpapasalon man ako ay pinapabawasan ko lang ang buhok ko roon. Hindi ko naman maifflex ang buhok ko sa trabaho dahil kailangan palaging nakatago iyon.
"Hmm," Panimula ng isang staff na si Ivan habang tinitingnan ako mula ulo hanggang paa na parang binabasa niya ang buong pagkatao ko. Napakurap-kurap lang ako habang nakatingin sila sa'king lahat. Maging si Cassie ay nakisali rin sa kanila para mag-isip kung ano ang babagay sa'kin.
"Considering your facial structure, a Korean perm would be an excellent choice for you." Mala propesyonal na suhestyon ni Ivan.
"I think adding some soft bangs will further accentuate her features as well!" Natutuwang sambit naman ng isang staff na si Fiona.
Napaawang naman ang bibig ni Cassie dahil sa pagkamangha. "Omg, ang galing niyo talaga, madam! Babagay nga sa best friend ko 'yon!" Excited na sambit niya at napapakpak pa ng mahina sabay tingin sa'kin.
I awkwardly smiled at them at napakamot sa ulo ko. "You think so?" Tanong ko sa kanila.
Agad-agad namang napatango ang dalawang staff habang malawak ang ngiti sa kanilang mga labi, ganoon din si Cassie. "Oo naman, ma'am. Actually, nakakastarstruck na po ang ganda niyo. Paano pa kaya pag naenhance lalo ang features niyo?" Tugon naman ni Ivan.
Napatango-tango naman si Cassie at tsaka napabulong sa'kin. "True, laglag brief talaga 'yon si Baste pag makita ka niya mamaya hihihi!" Natatawang pang-aasar niya sa'kin dahilan para biglang mag-init ang magkabilang pisngi ko dahil sa sinabi niya.
"Cassie!" Pabulong na saway ko sa kaniya at siniko siya. Buti nalang at mukhang hindi iyon narinig ng dalawang staff sa harap namin dahil nagpatuloy pa sila sa pagsuggest kung ano bang magandang gawin sa buhok ko.
"Mukhang babagay rin sa'yo ang ginger hair color, ma'am Laurice. I'm sure it would make your fair skin look lighter. What do you think?" Ani Fiona.
Agad ko namang itinaas ang dalawa kong kamay sa harap nila at ginalaw-galaw 'yon. "I'll just stick with my black hair. Bawal kasi sa work, e." I smiled at them politely.
"Oh, ano po ba ang work niyo, ma'am?" Curious na tanong naman ni Ivan.
Sasagot na sana ako nang maunahan ako ni Cassie. "She's a nurse in New York!" Proud na tugon niya sa kanila sabay turo pa sa'kin.
Napaawang naman ang bibig ng dalawa dahil sa nalaman. "Wow, beauty and brains!" Compliment ni Ivan. "Your husband must be really lucky!"
I was about to correct them na boyfriend palang nang biglang magsalita si Cassie.
"Right? We're actually attending HER HUSBAND's birthday party today so please, make her look like her presence alone is a present!"
We availed a variety of their pampering services from haircut and styling, facial, massage, body scrub, manicure, pedicure, and makeup application. Sa sobrang dami ng inavail namin ay hindi namin namalayang madilim na pala sa labas at halos isang oras nalang ang natitira bago magsimula ang party. Buti nalang at dala na rin namin ang kaniya-kaniya naming attire kaya hindi na namin kailangang umuwi para magbihis.
Napatingin ako sa sarili ko sa salamin na narito sa isang dressing room na nandito sa VIP room na kinuha namin. Hindi ko mapigilan ang sarili kong mapanganga habang tinitingnan ko ang kabuuan ng aking repleksyon sa salamin. Korean permed hair, soft and wispy bangs, hazel beige contacts, douyin makeup, and a soft glowing skin. It was as if I'm facing a whole new version of me that I have never seen before.
"Lori, are you done?" I heard Cassie called my name outside the dressing room then it was followed by a knock. Mukhang mas nauna siyang matapos kesa sa'kin.
"Yes, I'm going out in a minute!" Tugon ko naman sa kaniya. I looked at myself in front of the wide mirror for the last time, gripping tightly on the clutch bag that matches my dress.
The dress speaks of elegance in a deep, rich maroon made from a velvety fabric that glides over my skin. And since it was strapless, it allowed my shoulders to take the center stage accentuated by a delicate gold necklace. The neckline dips slightly, showing a little bit of my cleavage while the back of it was completely open showcasing the curve of my back. It hugged my curves in all the right places before slightly flaring out at the knees that created a mermaid silhouette.
"Oh my Goddess..." Cassie gasped. All of them seemed to be dumbfounded the moment they saw me get out of the dressing room.
I'm actually feeling a bit anxious about the upcoming party. All of Sebastian's acquaintances will be there, and I'm aware that each of them holds a significant status. Aside from that, his grandparents would also be there kaya labis na lamang ang kaba ko simula pa kahapon. But seeing the satisfied look ok their faces gave me a surge of confidence. I feel like I now appear worthy enough to be Sebastian Marcelo Villafuerte Alejandre's girlfriend.
We were picked up by kuya Tomas as per Sebastian's instructions. On the way na rin daw sila Samuel at Felix sa venue. I'm thankful that I have Cassie with me right now, panay ang pag-eencourage niya sa'kin the whole time we were in the car.
She was wearing a strapless black above the knee dress with yellow details on its helm and a 3D medium sized yellow flower was delicately placed on the side of its chest area. The outfit was paired with a black berett on her head, long black gloves that covers her hand up to her elbows, and a thigh high boots as her footwear.
When we arrived, hindi na muna kami pumasok agad dahil hinahanap pa namin ang mga kaibigan namin na nasa parking lot pa raw. They said they were having a hard time to find a spot dahil halos occupied na raw lahat. That fact alone was enough to make me feel anxious once again. Mukhang marami-raming personalidad ang dadalo sa kaniyang kaarawan ngayon.
The first one who arrived was Samuel. He was wearing a black button front dress shirt and apricot solid slant pocket pants. Agad na bumungad sa'ming dalawa ni Cassie ang mapang-asar niyang mukha matapos niyang makita ang outfit namin.
"Himala, nagmukhang tao na kayo for the first time." Mapang-asar na sambit niya habang nakapamulsa ang isa niyang kamay while the other hand was holding a YSL paper bag. Iyon siguro ang gift na dala niya para kay Sebastian.
"Oy, ang kapal ng libag ah!" Buwelta naman ni Cassie. Dahilan para matawa ako.
"So, kamusta binyag mo, Sam?" Nakangising tanong ko. Naguguluhan naman siyang napatingin sa'kin.
"Huh? Anong binyag? May anak na pala ako?" Naguguluhan naman niyang tanong.
"First banlaw sa ulo mo. Mukhang binasa mo lang ng tubig, e." Kalmadong tugon ko naman dahilan para sumabog sa tawa si Cassie.
"Savageee!" Natatawang pang-aasar ni Cassie kay Samuel. "Gagi, first time kong marinig 'yon ah? But girl, you ate!" Tuwang-tuwang pagchicheer niya pa sa'kin.
Napailing-iling nalang si Samuel habang nakangisi. "Well, what do I expect? It's just Lori being Lori, always competitive."
Hindi nagtagal ay dumating na rin si Felix. He was wearing a white shirt underneath a navy blue lapel collar blazer and navy blue pants. And as expected from Felix, his approach was a lot different than Samuel's.
"Wow ha? Akala ko supermodels, mga kaibigan ko lang pala." Natatawang sambit ni Felix habang lumalapit sa'min. Patakbong sinalubong naman ni Cassie si Felix at tsaka ipinulupot ang kaniyang mga kamay sa braso nito.
"Nako, buti ka pa. Samuel right here was bullying us! Mukhang bitter kasi halatang sobrang pinag-isipan 'yong suot!" Sarkastikong sumbong ni Cassie kay Felix.
"Ganon talaga, baka mamaya malamangan ko si Baste, e. Kailangan ko na munang mag lie low ngayon." Mahangin na tugon naman ni Samuel.
Poker face na napalingon si Cassie kay Samuel habang nakapamewang. " My God, Samuel Liverio. Day by day, mas nagiging delulu ka na. At first it was about your non existent fiance. And now, this?" Umiiling-iling na sambit ni Cassie at tsaka nilampasan na kami para masimulan na niyang tahaik ang daan paloob.
"Hey! My fiance is real, baka mamaya magulat ka nalang mauna pa akong ikasal sa'yo, 'no! Ganti naman ni Samuel.
"I know a good therapist, Sam. Let me know if you want me to refer her to you!" Natatawa namang tugon ni Cassie nang hindi nililingon si Samuel.
Nagkatinginan nalang kaming dalawa ni Felix, nagpipigil ng tawa. Because we know damn well that his fiance does exist. But he's wrong about one thing, no one looks better than my boyfriend!
Pagkarating namin sa loob ng venue, we were greeted by the cameras of the hired photographers for this particular event.
"Ang daming photographers, feeling ko tuloy artista ako. Thanks, Baste!" Tuwang-tuwang ani Cassie sa amin habang ineenjoy ang bawat paglingon niya sa cameras na nasa paligid. Ako naman, nagtatago lang sa gitna nila Felix at Samuel dahil sumasakit ang ulo ko sa liwanag ng bawat flash na pinapakawalan ng mga camera ng mga photographers.
"Paano pa kaya kung nag-ayos ako, baka rito palang akalain nilang ako ang birthday boy." Natatawang ani Samuel na katulad ni Cassie ay ineenjoy rin ang free photoshoot habang papasok kami ng venue.
"Bro, ang lala mo na. 'Di ka ba natatakot?" Bara naman sa kaniya ni Felix.
Nang makapasok na kami sa venue ay hindi pa kami nakadiretso sa table na naka assign sa'min dahil may photo booth pa. We took a couple of shots together and a few solo pictures. Matapos madevelop ng mga litrato namin ay agad na kaming nagtungo sa table namin sa bandang harap ng venue dahil marami pang mga bisita ang naghihintay na makapagpicture sa booth.
My friends started chitchatting upon waiting for the program to start and I would sometimes join them but I couldn't seem to focus especially when I noticed how crowded the surroundings get as more guests arrived at the venue. Mukhang lahat nang narito ay nanggaling sa mararangyang pamilya and I couldn't help but feel kind of suffocated because of that. I know my friends feel the same way as me so that's why they choose to just focus on our own circle instead.
I am not used to this, our friends are not used to this. Dati, we would just simply celebrate Sebastian's birthday at a fast food chain that used to be our favorite hangout place. He didn't like being in a crowd that much and both of his parents were busy to even throw him a birthday party. Being with us during his special days was all he wanted for him to be happy.
Kahit hindi niya sabihin, we already know the reason why he's doing this. He has to maintain strong connections because he is the only successor of Villafuerte Real Estates and the fate of their company lies in his hands alone. I am not exactly saying that he's not happy with how things go nowadays. But the real question is, is he genuinely happy like he used to before?
Habang iniikot ko ang paningin ko sa kapaligiran ay nanlaki ang mga mata ko nang may makita akong isang pamilyar na mukha mula sa mga panauhing kakarating pa lamang at kasalukuyang tinatahak ang red carpet papunta sa kanilang table. It was the lady that I met at the painting event, si lola Antonia. Mas lalong napahigpit ang pagkakahawak ko sa kinauupuan ko nang dumapo ang aking paningin sa may-ari ng braso na kaniyang kinakapitan. Beside her... was Mr. Primitivo Villafuerte.
"Guys, Baste's grandparents have finally arrived." Rinig ko pang anunsyo ni Felix sa amin na nanonood din pala sa mga taong pumapasok mula sa entrance.
"Grabe, bakit ganon? Pumasok lang naman sila pero bakit parang bumigat na agad ang atmosphere sa paligid?" Pabulong na komento naman ni Cassie as if they would hear her.
I covered my mouth with wide eyes when I realized something. The initials that I saw on her painting at the event meant Antonia Villafuerte. That explains why she looked somewhat familiar to me even we've never seen each other before. Siya ang lola ni Sebastian.
"Bakit parang nakakita ka ng multo?" Mahinang tanong ni Samuel sa'kin na nasa tabi ko.
"I... I've already seen here before." Kinakabahang tugon ko sa kaniya.
"What do you mean?" Naguguluhang tanong ni Samuel. "Wait, don't tell me they asked you to meet them somewhere tapos 'di alam ni Baste? Kamusta? We're they nice to you? I heard Baste and his grandfather are not that close, his grandmother is the opposite though." Curious na tanong niya pa.
"N-no... I only met her yesterday. Sa isang painting event sa mall, I didn't know she was Sebastian's grandmother, Sam." Paliwanag ko. "What if she didn't like me? What if may nagawa pala akong hindi niya nagustuhan?" Kinakabahang pag-amin ko pa sa kaniya. Is that the reason why she left the event so early?
Itinaas ni Samuel ang kaniyang kamay para takpan sana ang bibig ko but he stopped midway when he realized that I'm wearing makeup. "Calm down, Lori. May naiisip ka bang rason para hindi ka niya magustuhan kahapon?" Panimula niya. "Were you rude to her? Did you do anything that could've ruin the event?"
Dahan-dahan naman akong napailing. "N-no, I didn't." Utal na tugon ko naman sa kaniya.
Inilagay niya ang kaniyang kamay sa likod ng upuan ko para tapikin iyon. "Then I don't think there's a reason for her to not like you." A gentle smile formed on his lips bago niya muling ituon ang kaniyang attention sa harap dahil nagsisimula na pala ang program.
Kahit papaano ay gumaan ang loob ko dahil doon. Samuel could be crazy or deadass solemn sometimes depending on his mood but he has always been an empath, and he's a good listener as well dahil malalim ang pananaw niya sa buhay.
Inilapit ko ang bibig ko sa tenga ni Samuel habang nanonood siya sa harap katulad nila Cassie at Felix. "Your fiance is so pretty. Introduce us to her next time." Nakangiti kong sambit at nagpay attention na rin sa program. Dama ko ang pagkabigla ni Samuel sa tabi ko pero hindi ko na siya nilingon pa at napangisi nalang.
The program went on smoothly until the most awaited part of it finally arrived. Nagsitayuan ang lahat para magbigay pugay sa pagdating ng birthday celebrant. Kitang-kita namin kung paano lumiwanag ang labas ng entrance dahil sa sunod-sunod na pagflash ng mga camera. Maging ang mga photographers sa loob ay panay ang pagkuha ng litrato kahit na hindi pa nakakapasok si Sebastian sa loob.
Napahawak ako sa dibdib ko nang maramdaman ko ang unti-unting pagbilis ng tibok nito. Why the hell do I feel nervous to see him? Para namang hindi kami nakatira sa iisang bahay!
Tuluyan nang nahugot ang hininga ko nang magbukas na ang glass doors ng entrance. Kaagad na nagpalakpakan ang mga bisita nang makita ang pagpasok ni Sebastian sa loob ng venue, habang ako ay parang napako na yata sa kinatatayuan ko.
He was the epitome of class in his meticulously tailored black suit, adorned with subtle dark maroon details that complemented his powerful aura. The suit was impeccably cut, accentuating his broad shoulders and masculine physique. His dark maroon neck tie was tied in a perfect Windsor knot while his polished black leather shoes reflected the chandeliers' soft light. Kapansin-pansin din ang cufflinks na suot niya, a pair of dark maroon gems encased in gold.
"Oh my God, matchy pala 'yong outfit niyo." Mahinang sambit ni Cassie sa tabi ko.
Sasagutin ko na sana siya nang biglang mapatingin sa direksyon namin si Sebastian matapos niyang harapin ang mga bisita na bumabati sa kaniya habang naglalakad siya sa gitna ng hall. And in the midst of the bustling crowd that was filled with a sea of faces vying for his attention, his gaze pierced through the chaos and still managed to find its way to me.
Napaawang ang bibig ko nang pasadahan niya ako ng tingin mula ulo hanggang paa. I noticed how he but his lower lip bago niya tuluyang malampasan ang pwesto namin. Agad akong napakurap-kurap at napayuko nang maramdaman ko ang biglang pag-init ng magkabila kong mga pisngi dahil doon. W-what was that for?
Sebastian started his speech the moment he got up at the stage, mainly thanking everyone who managed to arrive in this celebration. Nakatingin lang ako sa pictures namin sa booth kanina. Actually, hindi ako nakatingin doon dahil sa'min, pero dahil sa print ng birthday celebrant na kasama sa pictures na iyon.
Bigla akong natauhan nang bigla akong kalabitin ni Felix. "Lori, ayan na yata!" Excited na sambit niya.
"Ha? Ang ano?" Sabog na tanong ko naman dahil sa pagkabigla. Awtomatikong napatingin nalang ako kay Sebastian na nakatingin na pala sa gawi namin ngayon.
"But before I end this speech, I would like to introduce someone I hold dear in my heart."
Biglang nag-init ang magkabilang tenga ko nang marinig ko ang kaniyang sinabi. Nagsimulang magbulong-bulungan at maghiyawan ang mga tao sa paligid na animo'y maging sila ay excited sa ipapakilala ni Sebastian.
"It seems like the CEO will finally reveal his relationship status."
"I knew it! A handsome man like him is impossible to not have a girlfriend at his age."
"We already know who she is, but I guess he finally wants to make it official."
"I bet they're getting married soon! Oh God, they are such a perfect couple. Aren't they?"
Samu't sari man ang mga boses na naririnig ko ngayon, tila parang ang sariling pagkabog lamang ng dibdib ko ang naririnig ko sa mga sandaling ito. A genuine smile formed on Sebastian's lips when his eyes met mine, his gaze speaks as if he was encouraging me to not be afraid because he is here with me, and I am not alone.
Nagsimula na akong kantsawin nila Cassie, Felix, at Samuel para patayuin ako pero nanatili pa rin akong nakaupo sa upuan ko dahil hindi pa naman tapos si Sebastian sa sasabihin niya. I took a deep breath when Sebastian's mouth opened in front of the microphone. Napahawak ako ng mahigpit sa magkabilang helm ng dress na suot ko. This is it, Laurice.
"Everyone, I want you to meet my girlfriend, the love of my life, Ms. L—"
Handa na sana akong tumayo mula sa kinauupuan ko nang biglang dumilim sa kapaligiran. Nagtatakang inilibot ko ang paningin sa paligid ko when a spotlight suddenly appeared somewhere in the room, but it was not on me, but on Yssabel Falcon.
The hall was immediately filled with applause and cheering of approval from everyone. Tila gulat na napatingin Yssa sa paligid at napahawak sa kaniyang dibdib na parang hindi niya inaasahang mangyayari ito, but she still stood up and began making her way to the stage with Sebastian anyway.
"What the fuck is going on?" Nagngingitngit na tanong ni Cassie.
Nanlalaki ang mga matang napatayo ako sa kinauupuan ko, while my heart felt like it was slowly shredding into pieces. Nanginginig ang mga labi kong napatingin kay Sebastian na hindi maialis ang paningin sa'kin ngayon. Hindi makapaniwalang napakurap-kurap ako sa kaniya, nagtatanong ang mga mata, habang patuloy na dinudurog ng bawat pagpalakpak at hiyawan ng mga tao ang puso ko.
Why is she here? W-why is she the one on the stage with him? What's happening?
Nanatiling nakapako ang mga paa ko sa kinatatayuan ko, hindi alam ang gagawin. Should I run away? Or should I defend what's mine?
Those are the questions that were running inside of my mind at that moment, but I wasn't even given enough time to process everything so I can decide when Sebastian's grandfather suddenly stood up from his seat as he began clapping proudly because of what he was seeing. Tuluyan na yatang gumuho ang mundo ko nang magsitayuan din ang lahat ng mga bisita, maliban sa mga kaibigan ko... at ang lola ni Sebastian.
Natagpuan ko nalang ang sarili kong humahakbang paatras. My friends attempted to go with me but I ran away before they could. Patakbong tinahak ko ang daan palabas habang abala ang mga tao sa nangyayari sa harap para hindi nila ako mapansin. Ramdam ko ang unti-unting pagpatak ng mga luha sa pisngi ko sa bawat hakbang na tinatahak ng mga paa ko.
Tuluyan nang nanghina ang magkabilang tuhod ko nang makalabas na ako sa venue dahilan para mapaupo ako sa sahig at hindi ko na rin nagawang pigilan pa ang sarili kong mapahagulhol dahil sa labis na sakit na nararamdaman ko sa loob ng dibdib ko ngayon. Wala na akong pakealam kung pinagtitinginan ako ng mga guwardiyang nagbabantay rito sa labas. My pain was so overwhelming that it rendered me speechless.
Nilapitan ako ng iilang mga guwardiya. They had a lot of questions but since I failed to answer any of them, they threatened me that they'll have me reported if I wouldn't cooperate with them but I don't care anymore. May ikasisira pa ba ang gabi ko ngayon?
"Ma'am Laurice?" Rinig kong tawag sa'kin ng isang pamilyar na boses. Napaangat ang tingin ko mula sa may-ari ng boses na iyon at lalo lang akong napahagulhol nang makita ang nag-aalalalang mukha ni kuya Tomas. "Ma'am Laurice, ikaw nga!" Natatarantang sambit niya pa at tsaka lumuhod sa harapan ko para alalayan akong tumayo.
"Iwan niyo na kami rito. Girlfriend siya ni sir Sebastian." Paliwanag ni kuya Tomas sa mga guwardiya dahilan para tigilan na nila ako.
Kaagad na hinubad ni kuya Tomas ang jacket na suot niya at ipinatong iyon sa'kin. "Ma'am Laurice, ano po ang nangyari sa'yo? Ayos ka lang ba? Nasaan po si sir?" Sunod-sunod na katanungan ni kuya Tomas habang inaalalayan niya akong tumayo. Sa dami ng tanong niyang iyon ay tila wala man lang pumasok niisa sa isip ko.
"Kuya Tomas, please get me out of here. Please." Nanghihinang pagmamakaawa ko sa kaniya habang patuloy pa rin ang pagtulo ng mga luha sa magkabilang pisngi ko.
Napaawang naman ang bibig ni kuya Tomas, halatang 'di alam ang gagawin niya but he still decided to follow what I told him anyway. "S-sige po, ma'am Laurice."
I just found myself inside of the car that kuya Tomas used to pick us up earlier. Hindi ko mapigilang makonsensya dahil patuloy lang ang kaniyang pagdadrive kahit wala akong exact location na ibinigay sa kaniya. I told him that I just wanted to get out of that place. I never want to go back.
Patuloy ang pagvabibrate ng phone ko sa loob ng bag ko but I didn't have the energy to check who it was. Gusto ko munang mapag-isa. Ayaw ko na munang makipag-usap kahit kanino.
Tuluyan na akong napapikit nang nang maramdaman ko ang pag-init ng mga mata ko dahil sa mga nangyari kanina ngunit hindi sapat iyon para pigilan ang mga luhang nagpupumilit na lumabas na animo'y maiibsan niyon ang kirot sa puso ko.
What happens now? The whole world already thinks that she is his girlfriend at mahirap nang baguhin iyon. It's like a battle of me against the world, with the world behind her back, including the support of his grandfather. I stand alone against them all. How am I supposed to compete with her?
I believed with all my heart that everything was finally going to be fine. I held onto the hope of a fresh start after we decided to leave the painful past that haunted the two of us behind. But why does it feel like the heavens conspire against our love? Why does the univere relentlessly deny me the chance to be with him, as if it's determined to keep us apart?
How long is this fight going to take? Or is something not meant to be in the first place... even worth fighting for?