CHAPTER FORTY EIGHT
SOUTHERN's POV
"Ate! We are leaving na raw!"
Dinig ko ang malakas na sigaw ni West mula sa labas ng kwarto ko. "Palabas na!" I shouted back.
I glance at my reflection on the mirror for the last time. I couldn't see the South Benedicto who used to wear loose shirts, jeans and boots. Seeing a woman right now with long sleeve black dress and black high heel shoes. Ang mapipilantik na pilikmata ay mas kumapal at tumingkad dahil sa maskara, she is also has a smoke-eyed eyeshadows, ang mga labi ay pula dahil sa lipstick.
Wala sa sarili akong napangiti. Hindi ko nakilala ang sarili ko. Ngayon masasabi ko nang ang ganda, ganda ko talaga.
"Ate! Bilisan mo raw!"
I sighed. Right.
Lumabas na ako ng kwarto at nagtungo sa sala. Nandoon si East na nakasuot ng puting pullover, labas ang kwelyo ng polo niyang itim sa ilalim, black pants at itim na italian shoes. Si West naman ay itim na pullover na may sulat sa harapang Gucci, faded blues jeans at puting rubber shoes. Then my eyes settled to the young kid sitting on the couch. Naka suot ito ng kulay blue na pullover, may puting kwelyong nakalabas, itim na pants at itim na rubber shoes. Ang mga asul na mata ay nakatitig sa akin na tila kaluluwa ko ang nakikita.
"Are you okay?" tanong ko.
Tumango ito. Maayos na ang lagay niya. Simula noong nandito siya sa bahay ay mas domuble ang pag-iingat namin. Not because he is Mom's son to another man but because he is a kid. He needs to be treated properly. Ayokong lumaki siyang marahas ang mga nasa paligid niya. I want him to enjoy his childhood. Ayokong ipagkait sakanya ang mga karapatan niya bilang bata. Kaya naman sanggol kung ituring namin siya dito sa bahay, he is just four anyway. Mabuti na rin na nandito siya dahil dito na napunta ang attention nina Nanang. They were so happy to have him here with us. Nagkaroon sila ng instant baby.
"Can baby Gyro sleep in our room again Ate?" tanong ni West. .
"No. He's sleeping in my room" giit ko. Simula noong nandito siya ay hindi ko pa ito nasolo. They are too fond of him.
Ngumuso sila ngunit ilang sandali lang ay ngumisi sila ng nakakaloko.
"We are gonna sleep in your room then."
Sinasabi ko na nga ba.
"Everyone's ready?" Bumaling kami kay North na nagmamadaling bumaba ng hagdanan. She's wearing a peach colored backless dress. Kukulay ng damit ang mataas na takong niya. She looked stunning on her high ponytail and make-up on.
We settled ourselves inside the car. North was talking to someone on her phone, ang dalawa namang lalaki ay kinukulit ako habang kandong-kandong ko si Gyro.
"Ate you're not leaving again, right? Pwede naman kayong magkita ng boyfriend mo e."
"He has a name East, and it's Genesis."
"Whatever his name. I am just stating that you should stay at our home na."
I looked at him. Tinaasan ko ito ng kilay. "You don't like him, right?"
Umiwas siya ng tingin. Umayos ako ng upo para maharap siya ng maayos, I pulled Gyro and hugged his back, hindi naman nagreklamo ang bata. Nasa backseat kaming apat, pinagigitnaan nila akong dalawa. Nasa harapan naman si North.
"It's not that I don't like him. I just find that it's very inappropriate if you stay one roof with him, especially that you are not yet married" he stated, lecturing me like he is years older than me.
"So, in short?"
"Don't leave." He almost beg.
I know why he is acting like this. Ngayon matatapos ang pagiging grounded ko. And they think that I am gonna leave our house because I am free again. Ito siguro ang dahilan kung bakit tahimik sila buong araw.
I messed his hair making him scowl at me. "I'm not gonna leave anymore."
He looked at me, eyes widening with amusement. "R-really?"
Lumingon sa akin si North, si West naman ay napanganga kaya natawa ako. I nod my head and grin.
"I like annoying Dad."
They danced in delight. Halos mauntog ang dalawang lalaki sa kotse sa kakapadyak at kakasigaw sa tuwa. Inawat ko sila dahil baka sa tuwa ay maisipan nilang tumalon sa kotse.
"Settle down boys. Malapit na tayo" North announced. She looked at Gyro and smiled at him. "Are you ready, Gyro?"
Tumango ang bubwit.
"Dad will love to hear you are staying with us again" sinandal ni West ang ulo sa balikat ko.
Napangiti ako. Matagal kong pinag-isipan ang desisyon na ito. I'm done rebelling, I quit my miserable life. It's time for me to fix my life. Ngayong okay na kami ni Daddy ay gusto kong tumutok sa pamilya ko. We may be broken because of Mom but I know we can survive without her. Kaya naman namin kahit wala siya.
A sharp pang in my chest send bitterness to my whole system. My jaw clenched and I looked at the car window to calm myself. I need to get over with this pain.
"We're here!"
Bumaba kami sa sasakyan nang huminto iyon. A ancient covered porch and a large arched entrance door welcomed us. Bumukas iyon at lumabas ang isang babaeng medyo may edad na. She was wearing a emerald green halter dress. Maiksi ang buhok nito na siyang bumagay sa mala pusong hugis ng mukha. She looked elegant just the way she walk towards us with a warm smile plastered on her face.
"Hi! Welcome to my house!" she welcomed us with a warm hug.
"You looked so stunning Tita" North complimented her.
"Thank you, North. You looked beautiful too and you too South" nginitian niya ako. Ngumiti ako pabalik. Pinuri niya rin sina East at West bago bumaling kay Gyro. She giggled and pinch Gyro's cheek. Nakatitig naman ang bata dito na parang kinakabisado ang mukha. "You must be Gyro. Selendrina talks alot about you."
That made him grimaced. Natawa kami sa naging reaksyon nito.
"Anyways, let's get inside! Nasa loob na ang Daddy niyo. And someone is excited to see you" kinindatan ako ng ginang.
Huh? Sino naman 'yon?
Nagtataka man ay sumunod kami sakanya sa loob. Sinalubong kami ng engrandeng dekorasyon ng bahay. The huge crystal chandelier gave the house the luxurious vibes. Halos manalamin ako sa sahig sa sobrang kintab nito. Ang mga paintings ng mga ninuno nila ay maayos na nakasabit sa mga pader. Maging ang mga katulong nila ay malilinis tignan sa mga uniform.
The lady guided us to the huge rectangular pool. Sa malawak at pantay-pantay na gupit ng mga carabao grass ay nakaset ang mahabang rectangular table na punong puno ng pagkain. May maliit na bar counter sa gilid at naka standby naman ang mga kasambahay sa tabi.
"Dad!"
Tumakbo sina East papunta kay Daddy na may kausap na tatlong matandang lalaki. Nakilala ko kaagad ang mga ito nang mapatingin sila sa amin. Dad kissed my cheek as he placed his arm on my shoulder hinarap niya ako sa tatlong matandang lalaki na parehas may hawak na wine glass.
"It's very rare to see my daughter to join in an event like this. Mabuti nalang nagbabagong buhay na siya" Dad chuckled.
Sumimangot ako. Pinapunta ba niya ako para ipahiya?
"Good for her. Sana ang anak ko rin" Tito Otto Miyashiro stated. Naningkit ang mga mata nito sa pagtawa.
Tipid akong napangiti.
"Good to see you again, South" Tito Pantaleon smiled at me.
Ngumiti ako pabalik. "Ako rin po."
Ang mga mata niya ay bumaba sa batang kasama namin. He looked at Dad and smiled at him.
"You surely has a good genes" he commented.
Umiwas ng tingin si Daddy. Hindi nakaligtas sa akin ang pagtiim bagang niya. Nang mapatingin siya sa akin ay pilit itong ngumiti.
Pumwesto kami sa mahabang dining table, katabi ko si Daddy at si North naman sa gilid ko, katabi naman nito si Gyro. East and West was wandering around kasama si Wikepedia, anak ng bise Presidente. They are here too.
"Gyro!"
Matinis na boses ng batang babae ang umagaw sa atensyon namin. Selendrina, on her pink cute dress run towards us.
"Baby, stop running!" Awat sakanya ng Ina ngunit hindi ito nakinig. Tuloy-tuloy ito sa pagtakbo papalapit kay Gyro.
My little brother frowned and stood up. Hindi pa man nakakalapit si Selendrina sakanya ay lumayo na ang kapatid ko.
"Gyro!"
"Stay away from me!" he yelled as he run around the corner. Hinabol naman ito ni Selendrina.
"Hey!" awat ni North ngunit nagtatakbo na ang dalawa papasok sa loob ng bahay.
"They are so cute. Ang sarap maging bata" Vice President Rodeo El Persida stated while giving the kids an amusement look.
"I miss running like a crazy kid, ngayon hindi ko na magawa. Ilang hakbang palang ay hinihingal na ako kaagad" natatawang pagkukwento ni Tito Otto.
Sinang-ayonan agad iyon ng mga matatanda.
"I'm sure Gideon can still run" Tito Pantaleon looked at him.
Dad sipped on his drink. May naglalarong ngiti sa labi nito. "I need a medic after a long run."
Nagtawanan ang mga kasama nito.
"Bata ka pa naman Gideon e" Mrs. Cortez said as she sat down beside her husband. "Hindi hamak na mas bata ka kesa sa gurang kong asawa."
Her husband pouted. "Honey naman.."
Tumawa ang ginang bago nilibot ang paningin sa paligid. "Where are the boys anyway? And the kids?"
"I'll look for them Tita" akmang tatayo sana si North ngunit pinigilan ko ito.
"Ako na." This is my best excuse to get out of here. Sure, I love to join this dinner but I am not fond of the formal talking. Hindi bale na si North ang maiwan kasama ang matatanda dahil sanay na siya sa ganito. Baka lagnatin ako kapag ako ang naiwan sakanila.
Tumayo na ako at pumasok sa loob ng malaking bahay. Iginala ko ang paningin sa malawak na living room. Mas malaki ang sala nila kesa sa amin. Mas madami ring display kesa amin. Should I ask Dad to decorate our home? I'm sure he will allow me.
"Gyro?" I called out when I can't find the kids. Nasaan na ang mga bubwit na 'yon?
I saw a french door and my curiosity kicks in. Tinungo ko iyon at bumungad sa akin ang maliit na playground. May dalawang upuan na swing, maliit na slide, monkey bar at seesaw, ngunit wala dito ang mga bata.
"Gyro?" I called out again but no one answered it.
Humakbang ako patalikod, akmang aalis na ngunit nabungo ako sa matigas na bagay. Tumabingi ang heels ko kaya nawalan ako ng balanse pero may brasong pumulupot sa bewang ko para hindi ako tuluyang matumba.
"Tss, kailan ka pa naging clumsy?" a gentle hoarse voice sent shiver down my spine.
Kaagad bumilis ang tibok ng dibdib ko nang makilala ko ang boses na iyon. Tumingala ako para makita ang mukha niya. I was welcomed by his brows creased together, piercing dark eyes and pink thin line lips. Unti-unting umangat ang gilid ng labi nito hanggang sa namuo ang ngiti sa labi at mga mata niya.
Napanganga ako. Hindi makapaniwala at natutuwa.
"Gab.."
He chuckled and pulled me closer to give me a tight hug. Nagulat ako pero agad din siyang ginantihan.
"Oh my god, you're back!" hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala.
"Grabe, namiss kita...Wowo.." aniya. Natawa ako nang marinig ang tawag niya sa akin. I missed him so much.
Nang maghiwalay kami ay hindi ko maiwasang mapatitig sakanya. Gwapo na ito dati ngunit mas lalo siyang nagkaroon ng appeal ngayon. Tumingkad lalo ang maputi at makinis nitong balat, mas tumangkad pa siya lalo. Mas lumapad ang dibdib niya, he looked manly. Malayong malayo na sa mukhang tokmol na totoy noon.
Umikot siya sa harapan ko, showing his body. Pinakita pa niya ang muscles na mukhang pinaghirapan niyang makamit. Natawa ako nang magposing pa ito.
"Ano, Wowo? Mas gwapo na ba ako kesa kay Genesis?" he smirked.
Tumango ako. Sobrang gwapo niya, pero syempre mas gwapo pa rin sa paningin ko si Genesis. He's a Prince anyway.
"Gwapo ka pero mas mahal ko siya."
Nalukot ang mukha nito. He even acted as if he was hurt.
"Ouch! Akala ko pa naman mahal mo na ako dahil matagal akong nawala. Hanggang ngayon siya pa rin pala ang gusto mo" he shook his head.
I hit his chest, medyo nasaktan ako dahil matigas pero dumaing ito ng malakas.
"Aray! Grabe, gangster ka pa rin!" reklamo niya habang hinihimas ang dibdib.
"Umaasa ka pa rin. Quit it, I'm getting married" sabi ko dahilan para mapasinghap ito sa gulat. Natawa muli ako sa reaksyon niya. He's cute, damn. Mabuti nalang may Genesis na ako. Kung una ko lang sigurong nakilala si Gab, baka sakanya ako magkagusto.
"No way..."
"Yes way..." Tumango ako. Umiling pa rin ito.
"Hey, there cuties! Nandito pala kayo" Mrs. Cortez went towards us with a warm smile. Niyakap niya ang anak bago tumingin sa akin. "Bagay kayo ng anak ko" aniya.
"Ma, iyon din ang paniniwala ko pero ikakasal na siya" irap ni Gab sa akin.
"What?" Mrs. Cortez gave me a look.
I shook my head and smile. Ang sarap pala sa feeling kapag ganito. Iyong proud kang sabihin na ikakasal ka sa taong mahal mo. Hays, I miss Genesis. I cannot wait to see him.
"Tss. Mukhang kailangan ko ulit bumalik sa North Pole." Gab shake his head in disappointment.
Tinapik siya ng Ina sa likod, tila nakakaramdam ng lungkot para sa anak. She gave me a smile but it's not the same smile she used to gave me awhile ago.
Bumalik kami sa pool area, nandoon na rin si Gyro na patuloy pa rin sa pagtaboy kay Selendrina na dikit ng dikit sakanya. Hindi na maipinta ang mukha ng kapatid ko habang sinusubukan siyang subuan ni Selendrina ng cupcake.
"Eat this or eat this."
Bago ako umupo sa pwesto ko ay pasimple ko munang kinutungan si Selendrina. She glared at me but I gave her a warning look.
"Stay away from my little brother you little freak" bulong ko.
Gyro grinned devilishly. Kinindatan ko ito bago naupo sa pwesto ko. Nagpapadyak namang umalis ang bubwit na babae at naupo sa tabi ni Gab.
"Wow, you're back! Gumwapo ka lalo Gab!" puri ni North kay Gab.
"I know. Inalok nga ako ng Hollywood na mag artista pero tinanggihan ko, mas kailangan ako ni Papa" mahanging sagot nito bago bumaling sa ama na ngising ngisi.
Napailing ako.
"Mapagbiro talaga ang anak mo Pantaleon" komento ng bise Presidente. Natatawa ito kaya ngumuso si Gab.
"Mana lang sa ama" Tito Pantaleon stated making everyone laughed.
"By the way, where is my son?" Tumayo si Tito Otto at luminga sa paligid.
Kaagad tumambol ng malakas ang dibdib ko sa sinabi niya, lalo na nang makita ang isang matangkad na lalaki na naglalakad papalapit sa pwesto namin. His lean, sturdy and muscular physique screams authority. Dumagdag ang kalamigan sa mga mata niya sa naghahalong nararamdaman ko. I feel like I am about to throw up anytime, nagkakagulo ang sistema ko nang magtama ang paningin naming dalawa.
"There you are, Vape! Come here, son!" Pinaupo siya ng ama sa tabi, kung saan kaharap ko ito.
Umiwas ako ng tingin nang tumingin siya sa akin. Tila may bumara sa lalamunan ko kaya uminom ako ng tubig.
"Hi, Vape! Mukhang hindi mo pa ako napapansin pero nagbalik na ako. Mukhang aalis din ako kaagad dahil ikakasal na ang Wowo ko" Gab pouted like a kid.
Naramdaman ko ang lamig ng mga mata ni Vape na nakatingin sa akin. Hindi ko maiangat ang tingin ko dahil natatakot akong makita ang dinulot ko sakanya. I hurt him so bad, now I deserve his coldness. Aminado akong guilty ako ngayon sa nangyari sakanya. Wala akong ibang sisisihin kundi ang sarili ko.
Pain and sadness crept inside me. Nasasaktan ako pero nalulungkot din ako. Miss na miss ko na ang best friend ko. Miss na miss ko na ang unang lalaking nagparamdam na espesyal ako. I just feel bad now that I ruined everything. I ruined our friendship. Hindi malabong sira na rin ang tiwala niya sa akin.
"How are you?" ang walang emosyong boses nito ang halos nagpalundag sa akin.
Akala ko sa akin siya nagtanong ngunit nang tignan ko ito ay kay Gab siya nakatingin.
"I'm doing great! Grabe, ang sarap manirahan sa North Pole! Look at my face, sumara lahat ng pores ko dahil sa lamig!"
The people on our table laughed at Gab's statement.
Tumingin ako kay Vape at napansing nakatitig siya sa katabi ko. Kay North. Nang mapansin niya ang tingin ko ay umiwas din ito kaagad.
The dinner went smooth, at least for everyone's perspective. I was having a hard time swallowing my foods, sa t'wing napapatingin ako sa gawi ni Vape ay nahuhuli ko itong nakatingin sa akin. I feel so awkward. I suddenly regret coming here.
"This get-together dinner must happen more often. This is a good bond for us. What do you think, Gideon?" Tito Otto narrowed his eyes on my Dad.
He sipped on his wine glass and nod in agreement. "I agree."
No, I don't. Especially when I am not in a good terms with Vape. If this once a week dinner would cross our path again, I would just stay at home and annoy my grandparents. Yes, I feel guilty for abandoning him. Sobrang naguguilty ako na nahihiya na akong magpakita sakanya. I don't know how to approach him, or neither know if I would have the guts to speak to him.
The thread that only connects us together had been cut. He's no longer my best friend, I am no longer his Milagro. That thought pained my chest.
"Excuse me, I'll just use the restroom." North stood on her feet and stormed out the venue.
Sinundan ko ito ng tingin. Hindi ko maiwasang magtaka sa kinikilos niya. Kanina pa ito tahimik, madalas ay siya ang namamangka ng usapan sa lamesa ngunit ngayon ay nag-iba siya. She's probably not feeling well.
I listened to Gab's storytelling about his long journey at the north. Hindi pa matatapos ang kwento niya kung hindi gumitna ang Ina nito at nagtanong sa mga pulitikong nandito kung kumusta ang pamamahala sa gobyerno. Dad consciously answer some questions, ganoon din ang Bise at dalawa pang matanda.
I feel out of place so I excused myself. Nagdahilan ako na titignan ko si North, hindi pa kasi bumabalik ang babae kaya medyo nagtataka na ako. Sinundan ko si North sa restroom ngunit nagtaka nang makita na walang tao rito. Nasaan ang babaeng iyon? Hinahanap ko ito sa loob ng bahay ngunit hindi ko ito makita. Baka umuwi na, pero hindi naman niya ugaling mang-iwan e.
A soft clatter got my attention. Nanggagaling iyon sa maliit na playground na pinuntahan ko kanina. Hoping that North might be there, I took large strides towards the french door and open it. I saw someone sitting on the swing but what caught me off guard is when I saw that it was not my sister. It's a man, and his massive back facing me. He swayed his seat back and forth. His size almost not fit on the kid's swing. Napansin nito ang presensya ko kaya gamit ang paa para itigil ang paggalaw ng swing ay nilingon niya ako. He grinned at me.
"Hi..."
Instead of black shirt, black pants, gold chains, boots and scarf, I was stunned seeing him on a white long sleeve polo, black pants and italian shoes. His hair was properly brush-up, showing his smooth and clean forehead. He's not wearing his piercings which made him look like a school boy who quits the bad habits. Sobrang linis at elegante niyang tignan ngayon. Malayong malayo sa gangster na nakatira sa ilalim ng tulay.
"Lukas, what are you doing here?" I took steps towards him, amazed by his presence
"You probably forgot who am I" he speak English fluently.
Hindi maitago ang ngiti ko sa malaking pagbabago na nakikita ko sakanya. Sure, I knew he was Gab's brother but I didn't expect him to see here. I know how much he hates his father, nagrerebelde ito katulad ng pagrerebelde ko dati sa Ama ko. Naiintindihan ko ang kalagayan niya dahil ako mismo ay nakaranas na sa ganoong pwesto.
"Of course not, I was just...stunned.."
He chuckled and stood on his feet. He spread his arms and I immediately gave him a hug. Hindi ko makakalimutan ang pagtulong niya sa amin. Hindi siguro babagsak ang Sigma kung hindi dahil sakanya. He risked his life just to help me.
"Thank you" buong puso ko iyong sinabi. I couldn't thank him enough.
"Ako dapat ang magpasalamat. Binigyan mo ako ng direksyon, South. And I thank you for that."
We break our embrace and I stared at him, confused. He scratched his nape and bit his lower lip. Shyness was evident on his eyes.
"Ang totoo, nasiyahan ako nang ipasa mo sa akin ang trono mo sa Sigma. Yes, that was my goal from the very beginning, to be the rank one but I eventually doubt myself if I am capable to do the rule. You became a legend upon having the title and I don't think I can beat that. I admit, I was just a curious wannabe gangster. Your fame ignites some insecurity---"
"Cut the crap, Lukas and go straight to the point" I cut him off.
He swallowed and scratch his nape again. Hindi ito makatingin sa akin ng diretso kaya naningkit ang mga mata ko. Ilang sandali lang ay may hinugot ito sa likod at inabot sa akin ang isang pamilyar na makintab at matulis na bagay. It has some ruby attached on its handle making it looked extravagant. I remember the first time Lachlan handled me the dagger as a sign of my position at the organization. Hindi maitago ang saya ko noon, I feel like I just received my diploma. Kakaibang diploma.
"This is yours, and I don't see fit on the position. You're the Queen Milagrosa, ikaw ang bagay sa trono. Consider this as my resignation letter too," I looked up on him when I reached my dagger. Ngumiti ito dahilan para mas lalong lumitaw ang kagwapuhan niya. "Susunod na ako sa yapak mo."
Nanlaki ang mga mata ko. "Magbabagong buhay ka na rin?"
Tumango siya bago natawa. "Pupunta akong America para asikasuhin ang mga pamana ni Mama sa akin. I'll start my new life in there, probably baka doon na rin ako bumuo ng pamilya."
"How about your gang?"
"They went back to their families as well. Katulad ko, mga rebelde rin sila. Nakakalungkot man pero kailangan na naming magkanya-kanya at ayusin ang mga buhay namin. Nangako naman kami na hindi kami mawawalan ng connection sa isa't isa at isa pa, may bakasyon namang matatawag para magkikita kita kami ulit" although his lips form a satisfying smile, the sadness was evident on his eyes. He will surely miss his friends. Hindi lang pagiging bayolante ang ginagawa ng Gang sa isang tao, it also develops your friendship with the other members. Hindi lang pagkakaibigan kundi isang pamilya.
"I wish you all the best, Lukas" ngumiti ako. Our first meeting might be that bad but we still end up being a good friends. He was my enemy but he risk his life to help me. Hindi ko makakalimutan ang isang katulad niya.
"Thank you, Milagrosa."
I shook my head. "I'm sad to say that there is no longer Milagrosa. The Sigma Dynasty is now gone. Therefore, wala ng rank 1 pero may gang pa rin naman."
We both laughed at it. Sure, wala na ang organisasyon na sumusuporta sa pagiging Gangster namin pero dahil sa namuong pagkakaibigan, I doubt the gang will split up. Isa pa, ang Bente-bente Gang ay panghabangbuhay nang magkakasama.
"Before I forgot" he took something on his neck. Doon ay nakita ko ang emergency necklace na binigay ni Daddy sa akin. "Here. This is yours too. I don't know what's with that necklace but I did try my best to take care of it."
Inabot ko ang kwintas. Hindi ko maiwasang mapangiti nang mapagtanto ang ibig sabihin nito. Just like what Dad told me when he gave this to me before, Isang pindot ay isang tulong ang darating. I now fully understand its purpose. Just like what I thought before that Dad doesn't care about me, he gave me this necklace to save my life.
"Thank you, Lukas..." Binalik ko ang kwintas sa leeg ko at tinago iyon sa loob ng damit ko. I looked up at him and saw him staring down at me. I could see emotions I cannot name on his eyes.
"I'll miss you, South."
I smiled and nod in agreement. "I will miss you too." I hugged him once more. This time, mas matagal. I am so happy to have him in my circle of most trusted friends.
Someone cleared his throat which broke our moment. Naghiwalay kami at sabay na lumingon sa istorbo. There, Gab leaning at the door with his arms fold on his chest. He eyed us suspiciously.
"I believe Genesis is the name of my rival, not Lukas. Mukhang maraming nangyari noong nawala ako. Can someone explain what is the meaning of this?" he said firmly like he just caught his girlfriend having an affair with another man. Bago pa makasagot si Lukas ay tinaas na ni Gab ang isang daliri. "Ops! If your answer will something that would hurt me, don't answer it. Magkukunwari nalang ako na hindi ko ito nakita, tutal ay magaling akong magpanggap. Mahirap nga lang makamove on."
Nagkatinginan kami ni Lukas. Pareho kaming hindi naiintindihan si Gab.
"What are you doing here Kuya? Bakit hindi ka pumasok sa loob?" Naglakad si Gab papalapit sa amin.
Kuya? Kung ganoon mas matanda si Lukas kesa kay Gab. I don't know their story but I could see the two has a good relationship. Parehong walang galit sa mga mata. Casual lang.
"I don't have too. Isa lang naman ang purpose ko kung bakit ako pumunta dito" sagot ni Lukas bago ngumiti sa akin. I smiled back at him.
"Aish! Ano ba iyan! Stop smiling at each other! Ikaw naman Wowo, hindi ka naman pala ngiti ha! Stop smiling, you're just making me fall for you again!" Gab complain.
Natawa ako sa pagiging isip bata niya. Hindi pa rin siya nagbabago.
"Lukas is a good friend of mine. Normal lang na ngitian ko siya" sagot ko.
"Paano pala kayo nagkakilala?"
Nagkatinginan muli kami ni Lukas. We both have the same expression.
"Stop looking at each other! Ano ba 'yan! Dapat si Genesis ang karibal ko hindi ang kapatid ko e! Halika ka nga, Wowo, isumbong kaya kita kay Genesis?" banta niya. Nanlaki ang mga mata ko bago umiling dito. "Good. Then stop smiling on my brother. Ikaw naman Kuya, stop flirting. Remember the woman I was telling to you before?"
"Iyong tumatawag sa'yo na Condom Boy?"
Gab grimaced. Hindi ko naman maiwasang matawa nang maalala ang tawag ko sakanya.
"Oo. Si South iyon kaya tumigil ka diyan. She's my first love." He smiled at me.
I tsked and walk towards the door. I stop and look at the two boys glaring at each other. Hindi naman seryoso ang tingin nila, they were like a child fighting over who will eat the lollipop first.
"Stop your childish act. Let's get back to the dining. Nagutom muli ako" I said and they immediately obliged.
Bumalik kami sa pool area, this time Lukas went with us. Mrs. Cortez seems not shock to see him here, ganoon din si Tito Pantaleon na masayang kinausap ang anak. They talked casually, nakikitaan ko lang sila ng kaonting awkward but I'm sure they're trying to break the ice between them.
As I settle myself on my seat, I noticed the vacant seat in front of me. Medyo nakahinga ako nang maluwag doon. Pero nasaan naman kaya siya? My question immediately answered when I saw Vape walking towards us, this time he was with North. May ngiti sa labi ng kapatid ko ngunit hindi nakaligtas sa paningin ko ang pamumula ng mga mata niya. Did she cry?
Nang maupo muli ito sa tabi ko ay nilingon ko siya. "Where have you been?" tanong ko.
She glance at Vape then gave me her attention again. She cleared her throat and smile at me. "Nagpahangin lang."
Sounds convincing so I let it pass this time. She looked at Lukas with wide eyes.
"You're the gangster! What are you doing here?" tinuro pa niya ito.
Lukas looked at me, awkwardness spread to his face. Hilaw akong napangiti nang tumikhim si Daddy. Si Tito Pantaleon naman ay umiwas ng tingin bago tumikhim.
"Well, I haven't formally introduce my son to everyone, my apologies Ms. Northern" he looked at my sister then stood up to introduce his son. "This is Lukas, my eldest son. Things didn't work between us but right now, we are trying to bring back the broken pieces to make us whole again."
He patted his son's back. Pansin ko ang munting ngiti ni Lukas. Samantalang malaki naman ang ngiti ni Mrs. Cortez at Gab. Tanggap nila si Lukas sakabila ng nangyari sakanila.
"No way, Cortez ka? Paano ka naging gangster kung ganoon?" North doesn't know how to shut her mouth. Kung hindi lang ako nagbabagong buhay baka masungalngal ko ang babaeng ito.
"Long story" Lukas chuckled awkwardly.
"It's not shocking. I have my gangster here too" Tito laughed as he looked at Vape. Nawala ang mga ito sa pagtawa.
"Don't forget mine" Dad uttered proudly.
I puff an air. Malamang ako ang tinutukoy niya.
"Want to hear a story?" Vice President looked at us.
I was shocked to know that Dad, Tito Pantaleon, Vice and Tito Otto was a former gang members of Phoenix Hope. Katulad ko, mga kabataang naghahanap ng adventure din ang hanap nila noon. Nagkanyakanya lang sila ng buhay nang mainlove sila sa mga babae. It was common gangster story but I was still shocked. All this time akala ko si Mommy ang may ugat sa pagiging basagulero pero meron din pala si Daddy.
"You're a gang leader?" baling ko kay Daddy.
He sipped on his wine and glared at me. Si Tito Pantaleon ang sumagot sa tanong ko.
"He was, pero pinasa rin kaagad ang pwesto kay Rodeo nang makilala niya ang Mommy niyo. You know, a gang leader should only focus on the group pero dahil nakakilala din si Rodeo ng babae ay pinasa sa akin ang trono since I haven't met my wife before" he looked at his wife.
Wow. Gusto kong tumawa pero nang makita ang nagbabantang tingin ni Daddy ay nanahimik nalang ako.
"Dad, you're awesome!" Gab kissed his father's cheek. Napangiwi ako ngunit nagtawanan naman ang mga kasama ko.
The dinner went well. Hanggang sa matapos ang dinner ay wala kaming imikan ni Vape. Tahimik din si North pero paminsan minsan ay nakikisali siya sa usapan ng mga matatanda. I could tell that she's really good at this. I was all out of place, and Dad knew that. I feel so exhausted when we got inside the car. This time, sa iisang sasakyan na kaming pamilya, kasama and driver at isang bodyguard. We settled all inside Dad's Van to accommodate us. May dalawang sasakyan din na nakasunod sa amin at dalawang police car para pangunahan ang byahe.
"Dad, can we go to Wiki's house tomorrow?" West said as the car moved.
"You still have a week to be grounded" Dad stated.
Ngumuso ang dalawa at nanahimik na muli. I looked at Gyro who's gazing outside the car. Tahimik ang bata kaya hinaplos ko ang buhok nito. He looked at me, I could see fear on his eyes
"What's wrong?" I asked.
"Mom..."
Just when he said those word, a car in front of us blown up. Our car lurched making us shrieked inside. Kaagad naalarma ang mga tauhan ni Daddy. Nagtawag ng backup ang kasama naming guard habang nililiko naman ng driver ang sasakyan.
"What the hell is happening?" North panicked. Ganoon din si East at West. "Dad!"
I looked at Dad who's silently looking outside the window. Hindi ko alam kung guni-guni ko ba ang nakikita ko o sadyang nakangiti siya.
Napatili ang mga kasama ko nang muling may sumabog sa labas. Ang dalawang police car na nasa harapan namin ay nagliliyab na. Our car stopped, turning the wheel to escape the burning car.
"Daddy! Oh my god! I don't want to die yet!" sigaw ni North. Yakap-yakap niya sina West, East at Gyro na umiiyak na sa takot.
Tumingin ako sa labas ng bintana nang mapansin ang mga bulto ng tao na binabaril ang mga tauhan ni Daddy.
"Sir, h'wag po kayong lalabas ng sasakyan! Ilayo mo ang Presidente at pamilya nito dito" the guard on the shotgun seat instructed our driver before he went out the car with his gun.
The car moved again. Sunud-sunod na putok ng baril ang umagaw sa attention namin. Mas lalong nagpanik ang mga kasama namin, bukod kay Daddy.
Muling nagtagis ang bagang ko nang muling may sumabog sa labas. Shit.
Tumigil ang sasakyan namin nang may Van na humarang dito. I cursed under my breath when someone shoot our driver.
Nagtilian ang mga kasama ko. They are shaking in fears. I looked outside and realized our men were already gone. We are now surrounded by unfamiliar men.
"I-I'm scared..." East sobbed.
Nagtagis ang bagang ko nang tutukan nila kami ng baril. Tumingin ako kay Daddy, there is no fear on his eyes but I could see his worries for my siblings. They are too damn innocent to experience this. Tumango siya sa akin, meaning we have to surrender.
"We'll figure it out" aniya.
Bumukas ang pintuan ng sasakyan namin making everyone jumped and shrieked. Ilang sandali lang ay sumilip ang isang pamilyar na babae.
I gritted my teeth when our eyes met.
"Hi, Southern miss me?" Akari smirked as she gave my family a pity look. "Aww, what a lovely sight. Poor you, you'll die all tonight. Hi, Mr. President by the way" she looked at Dad but she then immediately averted her gaze. "Get them all! Queen is waiting!" she instructed the men. "Oh, tie her up first!" turo niya sa akin.
They grabbed us out the car. Masama ang tingin ko sa lalaking nagtatali ng kamay ko. He looked at me, terror filled his eyes. Nang matapos ito ay tinulak nila ako sa nakaparadang Van.
"Don't try to fight back, Southern or else they are dead" Akari pointed her gun to my brothers.
I clenched my fist but remain silent, not when I saw the men pushed my brothers almost making them stumble on the floor.
"May isang gasgas lang sila, susungin ko ang kaluluwa niyong lahat sa impyerno" I warned coldly.
Mukha namang natakot sila kaya mas naging maingat sila sa pagpapasakay sa amin.
"I will kill you! I swear, I'll kill you!" sigaw ni North kay Akari.
"Whatever, bitch" Akari rolled her eyes.
Nanginginig sa galit si North. I could see her desire to attack her but the men was pointing their guns at us. She couldn't do anything but to comfort our brothers.
"Papatayin kita! Mark my words!"
"Can you shut your mouth? You're so annoying! Bakit hindi mo gayahin si Mr. President na tahimik lang?" she turned her head to my father.
"Just bring us to her" Dad muttered calmly as he looked outside the window.
My brows furrowed. My curiosity grow even more.
The car moved. Gyro hugged me tightly. Hinalikan ko ito sa noo. "It's okay, everything will gonna be alright" bulong ko dito.
Hindi nagtagal ay huminto ang sasakyan sa tapat ng isang malaking bahay. It's not my Mom's house but I'm sure it's one of her property...or not.
"Take them all!" utos ni Akari sa mga lalaki.
Dinala nila kami sa loob ng bahay. This time, they were gentle on us. Hindi ako sumubok kumawala. Not now.
"Queen!" Akari called out when we stepped in the living room.
Muling nabuhay ang galit sa dibdib ko nang makita kung sino ang bumababa sa hagdanan. She looked stunning on her violet halter dress. Napakasopistikada ang itsura nito. Maganda pero galit pa rin ako.
Her eyes went wide when she saw us. Nagtagal ang tingin niya sa akin ngunit nanatili lamang akong blanko. Nagtitimpi. Then her eyes settled to Dad who's looking at her just like me.
"Mommy!" winaksi ni East ang lalaking may hawak sakanya bago tumakbo papunta kay Mommy.
My mouth agape when he hugged her, crying. Ganoon din ang ginawa ni West. Iyong iyak nila ay sumisigaw sa pangungulila at pagsusumbong. Mom stiffened on her feet as she kissed my brothers.
"W-what is this, Akari? I told you to bring South here not them!" she turned her gaze to our kidnapper.
Akari smirk as she signal the men. Ganoon nalang ang panlalaki ng mga mata ko nang tutukan kami ng baril ng mga tauhan niya, including my Mom.
Ang lalaking nakabantay sa akin ay bigla akong sinipa sa likod ng tuhod ko dahilan para mapaluhod ako sa sahig.
"South---oh shit!" North fell on her knees. Ganoon din ang ginawa nila kay Daddy kaya nagtiim bagang ako.
Gulat na tumingin si Mommy sakanila, then she turn to Akari. "What the hell are you doing?!"
The woman dramatically stepped in the middle while waving her gun on the air. I watch as Mom's men turn against her. Pinalibutan nila kami ng baril habang yakap-yakap ni Mommy ang dalawang kapatid kong lalaki na tila pinoprotektahan ito.
"Well, well, well! Look who is fool! I am waiting this to come, now you are all under my control wala na kayong takas" Akari grinned devilishly. "Hmm, I wonder who am I gonna kill first? The Queen? or The President?" she pointed her gun to my father.
Para akong binuhusan ng malamig na tubig nang magkasa ito ng baril. Dad remained silent and emotionless, waiting the gun to shoot him.
"What the hell do you want?" I gritted my teeth as I narrowed my eyes on her.
She smirked but I saw the pain and sadness crept on her eyes. She looked at us, disgust and hate are visible on her face.
"You killed my family. You killed my Mother" sunod niyang tinutok ang baril kay Mommy. "Naging miserable ang buhay ko dahil sa inyo."
"I kept you!" sigaw ni Mommy.
"You kept me for your selfishness! Ginamit mo ako para matupad ang mga walang kwentang ambisyon mo sa buhay! You told me to hurt your husband, and I did. You told me to keep an eye to South and I still did. Sakabila ng mga ginawa ko pinatay mo pa rin ang Mommy ko!" nagsimula na itong maghysterical habang nakatutok pa rin kay Mommy ang baril. Para itong napoposess, ang mga mata ay nagbabaga sa galit, ang katawan ay nanginginig sa panggigigil, and mga salitang lumalabas sa bibig niya ay punong puno ng hinanakit. "You killed my family! I hate you! I hate you!" umiyak ito.
While Mom kept silent. She looked guilty making me clench my jaw. This is all her fault. Hindi ko maiwasang isisi sakanya ang lahat. Tama si Akari, she's selfish. And I hate being her daughter.
"All I want is revenge. Bago kita patayin, gusto kong makitang mahirapan ka muna. How about killing your bastard?" she point her gun to Gyro.
Niyakap ni North ang inosenteng bata. Pakiramdam ko kinukuryente ang loob ko hanggang sa mag-init ako at walang ibang nararamdaman kundi galit.
"H'wag mong idamay ang bata! Wala siyang kinalaman dito!" sigaw ni North.
"Oh, what do you know, North? This child's father was my father! And that child killed him!"
What the hell? Magkapatid si Gyro at Akari?
"He's innocent!"
"That child is devil! He must rot in hell!"
I looked at Gyro. Kahit mahigpit siyang yakap ni North ay kita ko pa rin ang panginginig niya sa takot.
"You're wrong, Akari..." Mom spoke up. She looked at the woman emotionless. "Gyro is not Ruaridh's."
"W-what?"
Kunot noong napatingin ako rito. Even Dad looked at her, confused.
What is she saying? I know what happened to her. Nirape siya ng walanghiyang lalaking iyon at si Gyro ang naging bunga. So what the hell is she talking about? May ibang lalaki pa siya?
"He raped you right?"
Mom shook her head and fell silent. Akari point her gun at her again, eager to know the answer. Nakaabang din kami sa mga sagot. I am too confused right now. Alam kong ganoon din si Daddy at North.
"Yes..."
I saw Dad clenched his jaw. He looked like her with fire on his eyes. "Do you have any other man beside that asshole? What the hell, Annunciata?" he didn't control himself.
Mom broke in tears. Wala sa sarili akong natawa. Tangina.
"I don't have any other man than you!" she yelled at him.
"Then who the hell belong that kid? Sabihin mo nang madagdagan ang listahan ng mga papatayin ko!" he growled. Sinubukan nitong tumayo ngunit pinigilan siya ng mga lalaki. They point their gun on him even more making him groan in annoyance.
Madalas kong makitang galit si Daddy, kung hindi sa akin ay dahil sa ibang bagay. But this is far from the rage I used to witnessed from him. Ang galit niya ay punong puno ng hinanakit at lungkot. I could see it in his eyes. He looked like he just torn into million pieces.
"Goddamit, Annunciata! You little wench--"
"He's yours!"
Tila nalaglag ang panga ko sa narinig. I looked at Mom who is now sobbing uncontrollably. Nakatingin siya kay Daddy nang punong puno ng hinanakit at lungkot.
Dad frozed on his knees. Natulala ito habang nakatingin kay Mommy.
"He's yours, Gideon. I never had a man other than you. Buntis ako noong umalis ako. Yes, Ruaridh touched me but when he found out I'm carrying your child, he gave up and he wants to recognize the child as his. Pumayag ako, I am so sorry I had to do that. I had to keep him away from you. You see, my family is complicated. And they always want a child of mine with Ruaridh. Nakaisip ako ng paraan, pumayag akong sumama sakanya para maging ligtas kayo. You know how much I want your safety. Wala ng mas hihigit na importante sa akin kundi kayo..."
Hindi ko namalayang tumutulo na pala ang luha ko. My heart clenched, I'm torn yet I feel like I was torn for something else. Ang malalalim kong hininga ay unti-unting gumaan ngunit madali rin akong nakaramdam ng sakit nang makita si Daddy na umiiyak.
"I...am so sorry, love. Please, forgive me..." pagsusumamo ni Mommy. Wala akong ibang nakikita sa mga mata niya kundi kalungkutan at pagmamahal habang nakatingin kay Daddy.
Dad shook his head. Kita ko ang pagdaan ng kirot sa mga mata niya.
"ENOUGH!"
A loud bang almost made us jump. My siblings shrieked in terror. I looked at Akari who is crazily pointing her gun to my Mom. Pinikit ni Mommy ang mga mata at mas hinigpitan ang yakap sa dalawa kong kapatid.
"I don't care who belongs that kid! What matters now is I want all of you dead!" sigaw niya bago sinenyasan ang mga tauhan niya. "Get them all! Ikulong ang mga 'yan! I want to give you all a chance for your happy reunion, baka isipin niyong masama akong tao kapag pinatay ko nalang kayo basta" she smirked before his men took us again.
Walang nagprotesta sa amin. I was actually hoping North will freak out but no, she still looked dazed. Hindi ko ito masisisi. Maging ako ay gulat pa rin sa mga nalaman. I looked at Gyro, mahigpit itong nakayakap kay North na tila natatakot makita ang mga lalaking may hawak na baril.
Kinulong nila kami sa iisang kwarto na walang bintana. May isang kama, maliit na cabinet at study table na walang kalaman laman. They closed the door and I'm sure it was lock.
"South!" North came to me and untie my hands.
Once I'm free, I kicked the table near me making everyone shrieked. Bumaling ako kay Mommy na gulat na gulat.
"This is all your fault!" I screamed in frustration, anger and pain.
North came and cage me on her arms, stopping me from attacking our mother. Nagsimula muling umiyak si Mommy kaya wala sa sarili akong natawa. What a drama Queen.
"I'm sorry, Southern. I cannot blame you for your anger. I deserve it" she shook her head.
"Mommy..." Gyro went towards her and hugged her. Mom kissed his cheek.
"I'm sorry, Gyro. I am so sorry...please know that I love you so much" she whispered on him.
"South, Mom just protected us" pagpapakalma ni North sa akin pero masyadong malaki ang galit ko sakanya para basta nalang iyon mawala.
I shrugged her arm off of me and looked at Dad. Tahimik ito habang tila may malalim na iniisip. I sighed and realized that my anger will not help our situation. Kailangan muna naming makalabas dito. Then maybe, saka ako gaganti.
"Tandaan mo, wala akong pakialam kung sino ka. Paparusahan kita" malamig kong saad kay Mommy.
"South, stop! Ano ba, Mommy pa rin natin siya!" sigaw ni North sa akin.
"Wala akong pakialam!" I snapped back, glaring at her
Nag-angat si Daddy sa akin. Wala itong expression pero alam kong gusto niya akong pagalitan dahil sa mga sinasabi ko.
"You want to slap me? Go on! Hurt me! Tutal wala kayong ginawa buong buhay ko kundi parusahan ako!"
He looked hurt but remain silent. Alam naming pareho na tama ako.
"S-south, please..." Mom sobbed.
Masama ko itong tinignan. "Stop your drama. Pasalamat ka walang korona dito dahil baka pinatong ko na iyon sa ulo mo. Masyado kang magaling" the sarcastic in my voice was visible.
"I said stop!" North looked at me angrily.
Pinantayan ko ang galit niya ngunit nanahimik na lamang ako. I sat on the corner and calm myself. Nang lumipas ang ilang minuto ay nagawa ko na ring paamuhin ang sarili.
"We need help" sabi ko habang sinisipat ng tingin ang buong kwarto. The only way to get out of here is the door.
"How, Ate? No one knew we are here" namumugto ang mga matang sabi ni West.
Muli akong humugot ng malalim na hininga. He's right. Patay lahat ng mga tauhan ni Daddy kaya malamang walang nakapag-abot ng mensahe sa kahit na sino. Kahit may sumaklolong mga awtoridad, malabong mahahanap nila kami dito.
"You know, Akari is not that smart to put as all in one room" sabi ni Mommy. "But we cannot escape just yet. We need to crossmind her. Make her believe that she really held us on the neck" She looked at me, nanatili namang malamig ang pakikitungo ko sakanya.
"She's right" pagsasalita ni Daddy. "I'll let you exercise your limbs when the right time came. For now, we must wait" he grinned at me.
Umiwas ako ng tingin. Naiinis ako na sinasangayunan ni Daddy si Mommy. What is this, they are getting back together na? Hindi ako makapaniwala na ang daling sumuko ni Daddy sakanya.
I tsked and averted my gaze.
"So, Gyro is my biological brother?" North spoke up making everyone looked at her. "I knew it! The moment I first saw him, I felt like we have the same blood running through our veins!"
"I'm so happy to have Gyro in our family" East smiled. His eyes were still red from his constant crying.
Ngumiti si Gyro sakanila. At his young age, nakakamangha na nakakaintidi na siya. He exactly know what was happening around him yet he didn't complain just like a normal kid will do. He never became a burden, he was all quiet and observing his surrounding. I feel bad for him, ang bata pa niya para makaranas ng ganito. I hardly remember the time I'm on his age. The childhood memories were blurry and hard to point out everything. Ang natatandaan ko lang, I like playing our dog's poop and throw it at North while she's cursing me to death and running away from me like a scared rat. Oh, what a childhood memory.
"Walang ibang hihigit sa pagmamahal ko sa'yo, Gideon. I love you and always will. Sana patawarin mo ako kung naging makasarili ako. Forgive me, Love..."
I looked at Mom who is trying to get with Dad. Nagsusumamo ito habang sinusubukang abutin ang kamay ni Daddy.
Nanatili namang bato si Daddy. He looked at Mom like she was some sort of a business paper on his desk.
"I don't forgive so easily" his cold voice sent shiver down my spine.
Dumaan ang kirot sa mga mata ni Mommy ngunit hindi pa rin ito sumuko. Inabot nito ang kamay ni Daddy at dinala sa labi niya. Hinayaan naman iyon ni Daddy habang matamang nakatitig sakanya. His expression slowly softening.
"I know, Love. Please tell me what to do to have you back again. I would do everything, just tell me.."
"What if I don't want you to do anything? What if I remarry another woman?" Dad challenged.
Mom face become stoic as she looked at him dangerously.
"You won't. I will kill the woman before you lay a finger on her. Don't try me, I hardly had patience with Sylina before. I should have been killed the woman before she stepped into our house" her teeth gritted in rage.
That not scared him, instead, the upper corner of his lip lift up in amusement.
"Just what I thought, you wicked witch."
North rolled her eyes at the sight. "Daddy, stop acting a teenager and kiss Mom!"
Oh, great! I want to slit this woman's mouth.
Just as when Mom lean forward to kiss him, iniwas ko ang tingin ko. I cringe at the awful sight. Goddamit, had they forgotten we were about to die any time soon? Imbes na magplano naglalandian pa!
"Kiss! Kiss! Kiss!" My siblings chanted making me pissed more.
"Stop the two of you, will you? Stay away from each other!" hindi ko na napigilang pang makialam.
Agad silang naghiwalay at tila nahihiyang tumingin sa akin. Para silang mga batang nahuling naglalandian.
"That's our little monster, Annunciata. Sometimes, I ask myself is she was really ours but then, everytime I looked at her eyes, I knew she was ours" Dad whispered to her.
____