7

Dennise's P.O.V.

I've discovered too many things for the past few weeks spending time here sa bahay kasama ng family ko, ni besh at syempre ni Alyssa.

Nitong nakaraan lang she's dropped a bomb into my face, saying how devastated she was when I left and that it pushed her to get into a contract with Kiefer.

For four years? That's too long. I wonder if Kiefer ever tried to actually be in a real thing with her.

Malamang, she's everything someone would ever ask for.

Yeah right, because for me no matter how long it has been, she would always be everything I would ever yearn for.

But why didn't she tried after all? And that, I don't have any answers for.

I confronted Ella after I have spoken with Ly.

I went inside with Justine after Alyssa and I have talked about what happened to her that day.

That day when I left her.

I saw how much pain and anger she still holds inside but everytime it gets triggered she'd snap for a moment and then after she would come back with so much tenderness and calm.

She could have hated me for all I know but she chooses not to.

She always choose to understand, even if in reality she doesn't have a single comprehension as to why I had to leave.

That's my Alyssa.

I wanted to let her know but of course, I would always end up saying no to the thought.

I never wanted to leave you, Ly. I hope someday I'd be able to tell you that.

-

I saw Ella sa may couch and gave her a death glare.

Kumunot naman agad ang noo nito and mouthed "what?".

"I'll talk to you when I'm done with Justine."

"About what?! You're so scary! Just tell me already."

I clenched my jaw and just gave her another glare.

Umirap lang ito sa akin at bumalik sa panonood niya ng movie kasama si Mosh.

Maya maya pa ay tumayo si Ella at lumabas ng bahay. Susundan ko pa sana ito kaso sa likod ng bahay siya dumiretso eh naroon nga yung isa.

Tsk! Tumakas ka pa talaga ha. Anyway mamaya ka sa akin.

After about 30 minutes I saw Ella walking back to the living room so I took it as a signal for me to speak with her.

We're now alone here since Mosh already went to his room and Justine is still in the dining table with mom and dad.

I saw her taking a deep breath bago sumandal sa couch and nagcross ng arms bago tumingin sa akin.

"I'm sure you're dying to corner me so eto, ako na ang nag initiate. Go on, what's this about?", mataray nitong tanong.

Aba, siya pa ang nagtaray ha.

"Psych graduate ka nga. Pero that won't work on me. You owe me an explanation, for what? A lot of things! Besh grabe! I should have known."

"Hay nako. Ano ba kasi yun? Why don't you just get to the point? It's making me anxious whenever you look at me like that."

"Why didn't you tell me that she's really not with Kiefer?"

She paused for a while.

"Tsk. What for? As if mag kakabalikan kayo if I did let you know?"

"Edi sana nabawasan man lang yung misery ko during those long four years!"

"Shh. Keep it down, will you? Gusto mo ba sa room mo na tayo mag usap? Masyadong mataas yung emosyon mo besh mamaya marinig pa tayo nung isa."

"Nakakainis ka kasi Jorella eh. You know what I was dealing with, who I am dealing with and how hard it was for me. I never wanted to leave her, and knowing that would atleast –"

"Would atleast what? Tingin mo ba it would make your life a little less miserable? Den, it will even make you feel bad. Knowing that the love of your life had to do such a thing. Heck it was too much for me to stand even if I was just her best friend. Paano ka pa? You love her with all your might and it will tear you apart. That's why I didn't tell you. I decided not to let you know besh. Gosh, I have been keeping that from you para hindi ka na lalong malugmok. I know you'll blame yourself kahit all you ever did was to make sure she'll be fine, that she'll be safe and sound."

"You're right Ella. Pero somehow, it will make me feel at ease. Knowing that she has not let someone else enter her heart."

"And you will continue to hope na baka ikaw pa rin. Na baka mahal ka pa rin niya?"

"Well that may be a wishful thinking pero yes."

"Maybe she still does. And if so, what are you gonna do about it huh? You said so yourself na hindi mo na siya pwedeng balikan. Right? Or baka naman nag iisip kanang sabihin sa kaniya? That I will support you with."

"I'm not sure if you're just so forgetful or hindi ka lang talaga nakikinig sa mga pinagsasasabi ko sayo everytime, besh."

"No, kabisado ko na ang mga litanya mo Dennise. I understand you with every last brain cells that I have. Pero just give it a try. We will be here to protect you and Ly. We will stand with you. And she will stand with you, hand in hand. I know that for sure."

"Paano kung hindi? Paano kung wala naman na talaga? Paano kapag mapahamak siya? Paano kun–"

"Paano kung paano kung, shhh. You're overthinking it again. How will you know if you won't even try?"

Napatahimik ako sa sinabing iyon ni Ella.

She was just waiting for me to process the whole thing.

And when she didn't get a response, she held my hand and said, "Just try, Dennise. You only have to try and we will be there no matter what. I love you both besh, okay? Now get your head on the game. You'll figure it out soon and we'll still be there for you."

She then kissed my head and tapped me on my shoulder bago umakyat papunta sa room niya.

Yeah. Damn it. I think – I think I should listen to Ella.

Maybe I could give it a try.

That's basically how it went.

And I have been giving it a thought, really. I am just so terrified but tama naman si Ella. Maybe we could try.

Maybe.

-

"Besh naman eh. Please sige na samahan mo na ako!"

"Tsk nako Dennise. May dalaw ka na ba? Grabeng cravings yan. Hindi nga ako makakapag drive kita mong kakatapos lang namin mag exercise ni Ly eh. I'm soooooo tired. Ang layo layo natin sa A Mano eh."

"Besh naman! Wala kasi sina mom and dad. Kaya nga ikaw muna pinapakiusapan ko e. I can't drive yet, look at my hand!", inis kong sabi rito.

"Mag order ka nalang sige na."

"Eh I wanna go outside. Ang tagal tagal na natin dito sa bahay, buti ka pa nakakalabas ka!"

"Tsk please besh. Nahingi ka na nga ng favor pasigaw sigaw ka pa. Lumakad ka na muna dun sa labas, mag oorder nalang ako. Ano bang gusto mo?"

"Tsk! I wanna go there myself nga eh! Kung ayaw mo, fine edi wag! Diyan ka na!", sigaw ko rito at ibinagsak ang pinto paglabas ko ng kwarto na tinutuluyan niya.

Nakakainis naman kasi. Minsan na nga lang magpadrive sa kaniya.

Hays.

Oh wait. Hmm. Right wag na nakakahiya pala.

Pero wala naman akong ibang mayayaya.

Sige na nga baka pwede ko namang i try.

I went to Alyssa's room. Hesitant at first pero I eventually found courage to knock.

After several attempts I finally heard the doorknob click.

"Ye– Oh h-hi!", nahihiyang sagot nito. Mukhang nagulat and wasn't expecting for me.

"S-sorry.", sagot ko rito as I looked away. Why? Because she's tryna fix her shirt that was pulled up to her upper abdomen. Damn she must have been working out too hard.

"What? No, I'm sorry I thought it was Ella and we just finished a routine kasi. Wanna come in?", pag anyaya nito and she offered me to sit sa couch.

"T-thanks."

After I settled comfortably sa couch she pulled her gaming chair in front of me.

"What's up? May sasabihin ka ba?", I heard her asking me but I don't know what's got into me, nakatitig lang ako sa kaniya.

She's damn hot right now. I wanna pull her in for a kiss.

"Dennise.", she called out to me again.

I shook my head to erase whatever thought I just had.

"Huh? Ah wala naman. Just wanna check up on you."

Kumunot ang noo nito.

"I mean, ewan. Bakit ba? Bawal ka bang kausapin?", pagsusuplada ko kunwari. Kesa naman kung ano ano muli pumasok sa isip ko.

"P-pwede naman. Teka nga, bakit ka ba nag susuplada? Did I do something wrong?"

Napaisip ako kung anong palusot ang sasabihin nang biglang may kumatok sa pinto.

"Come in!", she shouted to whoever that was.

"Oops, sorry. Nakakaistorbo ba ako?", sabi ni Ella habang nakasilip sa pinto.

"No.", sagot nito kay Ella.

"Yes!", sabay ko ring sigaw rito.

She looked at me then shifted her gaze back to Ella. "What? No Ells, come on in."

Tumango si Ella at sinara ang pinto. Umupo naman ito sa tabi ko.

"Okay? Anong ginagawa niyong dalawa rito?"

"Eh kasi I was trying to find her.", sabay turo ni Ella sa akin. Tinaasan ko naman siya ng kilay.

"Hinanap ko na sa BUONG bahay, pero she was nowhere to be found. Kaya I was thinking baka nandito siya and ayan. Sitting all comfy sa couch niyo, ay niya ay ano ba iyan couch MO. Ayun. Oo."

"Eh why are you looking for her ba?", tanong ni Alyssa kay Ella habang nakatingin sa akin.

"Kasi –", I cut Ella off.

"Kasi naman! Nakakabwisit ka kasi Jorella Marie!"

Napailing na lang si Ella na para bang nananawa na sa mga kaartehan ko. "Tsk. She wanted me to come with her sa A Mano. She's craving raw. Sabi ko I am too tired to drive, she obviously cannot drive herself yet and wala sina tito and tita."

"Okay? Why not order food online?"

"She wants to eat outside."

"Den? Do you want me to drive you sa A Mano?"

Napangiti naman itong katabi ko, and I also got excited about her invite but naalala ko na baka may umaligid sa amin if we go out together. With that thought alone I got out of the mood even more kaya napabusangot na naman ako at sinalampak ang likod ko sa couch as I cross my arms in front of my chest.

"Ano? Ayaw mo?", Ly asked.

"Uy besh. Sige na si Ly na ang isama mo. Hindi ko talaga kaya. Mag tatantrums tantrums ka tapos dito ka sa ex mo pupunta? Galingan niyo pa.", pang aasar ni Ella which didn't helped a bit para mawala ang inis ko sa kaniya. Sinamaan ko lalo ang tingin rito.

Mabilis namang tumayo si Ella at nagtago sa likod nung isa.

"Aba, teka bakit ba ako natatakot sayo ha?", sabi ni Ella at umalis sa pagkakatago sa likuran ni Alyssa.

"I think you should be.", bulong ni Alyssa rito.

Mabilis kong ibinaling ang tingin ko sa kaniya.

Hindi naman nakatakas sa akin ang paglunok nito sabay tumayo at pilit na itinutulak si Ella palabas ng kwarto.

"Uhm ano Ells, sige na. I'll talk to h-her. Lumabas ka na.".

"Alyssa! Sumigaw ka lang kung kailangan mo ng tulong ha!", sigaw nung isa habang tumatawa, siraulo talaga yun.

Pagbalik sa upuan niya ay ngumiti ito bago nagsalitang muli, "So? Fusilli all'Americana con Burrata? I know you still love that, I saw it on your IG.", she asked.

That made me smile at mabilis ko rin binawi para hindi halata.

"Did you just admitted that you are still going through my account?", I teased her.

"What? I'm not! I was just scrolling when you posted that time. Of course magpo-pop yun dun."

"Hmm. Sabi mo eh.", sabi ko rito while nodding my head.

"Anyway, ano nga? Labas tayo? Or let's order nalang online?", she immediately changed the topic.

"No I know hindi pa rin okay yang wrist mo, just order online."

I saw her smile, "I think I can drive but okay. I'll just order online for now.".

-

"Den. Uhm, na order ko na ha. Just wait for it downstairs, maliligo lang ako."

"Thanks.", I answered.

"Uhm, Dennise ... hindi ka pa ba bababa?", tanong nito. Kasi I decided to walk around the room, well specifically sa may wall banda where our pictures are still hanging.

"Nah, you do whatever you have to. I'll wait here.", sagot ko sa kaniya.

"Okay? Ikaw bahala. Alright make yourself comfortable. Shower lang ako.", pag papaalam niya.

Shit what am I doing here?

Yeah teka, I almost forgot. I know I put that here somewhere. It must still be here.

Dahan dahan akong pumunta sa may bed side table niya to find something important.

Ah! Thank goodness at nandito pa ito.

I held it in my hand and halos mangiyak ngiyak naman ako dahil it brings back a lot of memories.

Even the bad ones.

I was about to put it inside my pocket kaso nahulog ko ito.

"Shit.", pagpapanic ko dahil I can hear Alyssa's almost done taking a bath. Damn it!

Mabilis akong dumapa sa sahig to find it kaso I still couldn't. Bakit ba ang liit kasi noon hays.

My goodness na saan na ba yun?

Maya maya pa may narinig na akong nagsalita – more like sumigaw.

"Shit! What the?!"

"Oh s-sorry Ly. I-I was looking for my ring.", I apologized as I look at her.

"Oh sorry sorry nahulog mo ba? I didn't see you wearing one kanina. Sure ka bang nandiyan?"

"Y-yes. Nahulog ko nga.", I lied.

"Sige ako na. Come here.", she laid her hand to help me get up but I shook my head as a response.

"No. Ano kasi, uhm basta ako na. Sige na mag asikaso ka ng sarili mo. I'll find it."

"Ako na nga Den, baka mahilo ka pa diyan."

"Ako na Ly.", she took a deep breath bago sumuko at lumakad papunta sa kabilang side ng kama.

-After a few more minutes I still couldn't find it. Ang dami kasing mga gamit rito sa ilalim ng bed niya eh.

I'm getting impatient but really, I have to find it before she does.

"Den? Nahanap mo na?", ayan na nag tanong na nga siya.

"Wait Ly, I can't hear you.", I answered kahit narinig ko naman.

"Nahanap mo na ba kako?", umulit pa niyang tanong.

"Dang it. I still couldn't find it!", inis kong sambit sabay narinig ko siyang bumungisngis.

Umayos ako ng pagkakaupo at humarap sa kaniya nang nakataas ang kilay.

"Excuse me? What are you laughing at?", mataray kong tanong.

"I am not laughing. What do you mean laughing? Tsk tsk.", nakangiti niyang tugon.

"You're being weird. And it's not helping.", she's being cute but I chose to remain grumpy.

When I was about to get back to where I was earlier she called me again.

"Den."

"Get lost Ly, you're not helping."

"Hey that's rude, this is my room and you're telling me to get lost?"

"This is my house!", sigaw ko sa kaniya.

"Not yours. Your parents'. Who invited me to stay."

Ang daming pangbara nito kahit kailan, "Whatever, still, get lost Alyssa."

I wss caught off guard when she held me in my arms and pulled me to sit on her bed.

"Ano ba! Hindi ka na nga nakakatulong nang iistorbo ka pa?", inis kong sabi.

"Shhh. Calm down. I don't mean no war okay?"

I rolled my eyes on her.

"Ano ba kasi yun?"

"Okay. You're looking for a ring, your ring right?"

"O tapos?"

"You may look all day long pero hindi mo makikita yun if you're not gonna look from a different perspective."

"Alam mo, I don't have time to solve your riddles or whatsoever. Alis diyan hahanapin ko na ulit."

Nung pababa na ulit ako sa may sahig inilahad nito ang kaniyang kamay sa harap ko.

Medyo nagulat ako dahil naunahan na nga ako nitong makita ang kanina ko pang hinahanap.

"Isn't this the one you're looking for?",  she asked.

"W-where did you get that?", damn the stutter girl, stop it!

"I told you, hindi ka tumi-tingin sa ibang anggulo eh. It was on the complete opposite side of this bed."

"Right but n-no. I, I was not looking for that one. Yeah, uhm it was my engagement ring I was looking for.", again, the stutter is giving you away. Dennise you're so stupid!

She looked confused and she raised a brow at ibinulsa ang singsing na hinahanap ko.

Hold on.

"Wait. What do you think you're doing?", I asked.

"What? I thought you were looking for a different ring. Then fine, mukha namang pinabayaan na lang rin ito so akin na lang kesa magpakalat kalat."

"No!", sigaw ko rito.

"Bakit ba? Anyway, bababa na ako dahil malapit na rin yung inorder ko. Just follow once you're done here. Good luck finding your 'engagement ring'."

Hmm. Engagement ring. She emphasized the words as if she's being... jealous? Idk!

Anyway. I'd now have to admit na yun nga yung hinahanap ko kaysa naman kunin niya yun.

Padabog akong sumagot rito.

"Fine! Oo ayan yung hinahanap ko kanina pa!"

I heard her walking towards my direction again.

"You just had to say 'yes' kanina, Dennise."

When she's standing in front of me she spoke again.

"Give me your hand."

I looked at her with a question written on my face.

"Come on. Your hand.", pag uulit niya.

I gave her my left hand and she carefully held on it.

"If you don't want this lost once again, make sure you keep it very well. Kapag napulot ko na naman yan kung saan saan I won't even let you know.", she said with her calm voice as she put the ring on my ring finger.

I can feel my heart trying to get off my chest.

I feel so happy being this close to her again but ironically it also makes me feel sad.

How I wish I can just go back to that time and stay there with you for eternity, Ly.

"Hmm just like how I remember it.", she said while still looking at my hand.

She shifted her gaze back to me with  that signature smile, showing her dimples just right below her eyes.

I just stared at her with nothing else running on my mind.

I saw her swallowing but couldn't care less as I really want to stay in this position when she suddenly broke the connection.

"Den I–"

I cut her off and held her face.

I just let my hand caress the face I missed the most.

She closed her eyes as if she's also feeling this moment.

It made my heart hopeful.

Maybe we just really need that chance, Ly. Maybe I should just tell you what's happened and what's happening.

Para namang bumalik ito bigla sa senses niya at napatalon palayo sa kinauupuan niya.

"D-Den. Uhm nasa baba na yata yung inorder ko, I heard the doorbell rang. Lika, kumain na tayo.", sabi nito at mabilis na tumayo papunta sa pinto ng kwarto.

I felt a bit disappointed, geez. I wanted to be that close to her again for atleast a few more minutes.

"Dennise?", pagtawag muli ni Alyssa sa akin.

Tumayo na rin ako at tuloy tuloy na lumabas ng room niya.

Due to my disappointment, hindi ko na rin muna siya kinausap or tinignan man lang.

I went straight to the living room where my siblings are settled with Ella, of course.

"Oh besh! Come on. Let's eat. Nandito na inorder ni Alyssa for you.", pag anyaya nito sa akin habang itinataas baba ang mga kilay niya to tease me.

"Kumain ka na lang besh, I'm telling you."

"Whoa. What happened, tiger? Este besh."

I showed her my ring.

Napatakip naman ito sa bibig niya sabay nagtanong, "Nagkabalikan na kayo?"

Mabilis kong piningot ang tenga nito. Dahil nasa tapat lang namin si Justine.

"Ang ingay mo para kang baliw! How I wish, di ba? But no, I searched for this sa room niya and, and basta!"

"Uyy si besh, ang arte niyong dalawa no? For all I know, nag kiss kayo sa taas. Yieee!", mahinang pang aasar nito.

"If yes, what are you gonna do about it?"

Lumaki lalo ang ngiti nito pero bago pa sya makapagsalita binawi ko na agad ang sinabi ko.

"Hep hep. Nope, we didn't and yes, nothing happened. It was close tho. I held her face then she moved away."

"Ah so no kiss from baldo?"

"Shut it already. I just hoped she would allow me to be that close to her for a moment. She even closed her eyes!"

She burst into laughter.

"Shh! Wag kang maingay besh! Pababa na yun."

She was covering her mouth to prevent herself from laughing.

Binatukan ko siya and nakipagpalit na ako ng upuan with Jus.

And right on cue, bumaba na yung isa.

-

After kumain ay napagdesisyunan kong umakyat na muna sa kwarto para mapag-isa at makapag isip isip.

Mamaya kasi kung ano ano na namang masabi ni Ella eh nandoon nga yung isa, tsk ang daldal talaga ni besh e.

Anyway, narito na ako sa room ko and my bed's calling me to lay on it so... I did.

Hindi ko na rin namalayang nakatulog ako or should I say nakaidlip pala, until I heard someone knocking on the door.

I checked my phone and it has not been 30 minutes since I took a nap.

My head hurts. Well, mostly from thinking a lot of things and the lack of sleep for the past few weeks now.

I walked towards the door, didn't bother to fix my hair, eyes still half opened.

When I open the door I didn't expect the person behind it.

"H-hey. I'm sorry. Did I wake you up?"

I rubbed my eyes to clear my vision and gave her nods as an answer.

I heard her soft laugh and she then fixed my loose her behind my ear.

How sweet, right?

"Sorry Pakoy. I have something to tell you kasi."

"Hmm?", I answered with only one eye opened.

"Pupunta sila nanay at tatay rito. I guess only Kian is with them. I forgot to tell you. But I hope you're okay seeing them."

I got surprised for a moment and I felt like nagising ang buong diwa ko sa sinabi niyang ito.

I fixed my hair in a bun as I sublty compose myself for the conversation coming right up.

I cleared my throat before answering her, "Ganoon ba? Uhm, I don't have any problems seeing them but I know nagtatampo sila sa akin. I have not seen them for the last four years Ly."

She smiled at me.

Oh please. Can you please not do that?

"Yeah and they've been asking about you, you know? But no worries I've covered up for you since then."

"Hmm you did huh?"

"Syempre. I wouldn't let them think na hindi mo lang talaga sila napupuntahan. But you know them, they always understand."

"Thank you. For covering up for me."

"And you know wala ka namang responsibility na puntahan sila dun. Or dalawin. Kaya don't worry about it. And again, they understand."

"I know they do. And alam ko rin na tama ka pero hindi ko naman tinuring na responsibility yung pagpunta punta ko noon sa inyo. I just love how they take care of me as their own. I love them Ly. You should know that too."

"Yeah I know, Dennise. I'm just worried na baka you're not ready to meet with them again."

I shook my head, "Hindi naman, I miss them. I just don't know how I would react after a long time."

"Just be yourself. Don't get yourself too worked up. Okay?"

"Okay."

"So... Are we cool now? Hindi mo ako pinapansin kanina pa."

Napansin niya pala. Napamental face palm naman ako. Nakakahiya.

"What? Oh that? Sorry. Marami lang akong iniisip."

"Wanna talk about it?"

"Not now. But thanks, Ly."

"Okay."

We shared a silent moment for good couple minutes just smiling warmly at each other when she asked me to fix myself up already.

"Mag asikaso ka na, Den. They'll be here soon."

"Oo nga pala. Sige na I'll be downstairs."

"Okay."

"Okay.", when I was about to close the door behind me, she held on to it and called my name.

"Uhm Den."

"Yeah? What's up?"

"Can I give you a hug?", shit. You don't even have to ask

"H-huh?", patay malisya kong tanong.

"I just feel like you needed one."

I was not able to answer but the truth is, yeah I need your hug, Alyssa.

Bago pa ako makasagot, she pulled me in for a tight embrace and even placed a kiss on the top of my head. Napapikit nalang ako noong naramdaman ko iyon.

After that she pulled away slightly from me and gave me her sweetest, cutest and the smile I missed the most.

"I think I needed that more than you do.", she said.

"No, I just didn't know that I did. Thank you, Ly.", pag amin ko naman rito.

"I guess we both needed that then?", pagbibiro pa niya and that made our hearts laugh.

"Yeah, I think so too."

"Yeah. Okay. I'll wait for you downstairs."

I nodded at her and closed the door behind. I leaned towards it and just couldn't contain the happiness I am feeling inside. I covered my mouth to refrain myself from screaming.

Bakit ba eh kinikilig yung tao e. Hays.

Naku, buti pang mag asikaso na ako dahil parating na sila.

Kinakabahan pa rin ako, how would I face them after leaving their only daughter behind? After promising that she'll be the last person I will ever love?

I hope they have forgiven me, kahit papaano.-

I just finished preparing myself for the Valdez family.

Kinakabahan ako na para bang ngayon ko lang sila makikita ever.

Well matagal na rin yung huli pero iba ito. I did something na baka ikinagalit nila.

Malamang kahit sinong magulang ay hindi matutuwa sa ginawa mo.

But I did that for their daughter.

Yeah good point, as if they know about that.

I just took a deep breath bago umupo muna sa aking kama.

I checked my phone to find multiple messages from Jorella Marie.

Here are some of those;

From: Jorella Marie

Besh! I went home na ha. I forgot to tell you earlier pero nakapagpaalam naman na ako di ba? Nakaraan pa? May training later so yeah. Alagaan mo sarili mo ha? Or paalaga ka na lang muna kay 'babe'? HAHAHAHAHA!

-

From: Jorella Marie

Dennise Michelle! Naku po nakalimutan ko sabihin. Pupunta pala mga in law mo diyan ha! Ay EX. Ex in laws mo. Ayusin mo sarili mo. And please, just try not to worry yourself about it. They love you more than they love Ly! Haha! You know that, right?

-

From: Jorella Marie

Hoy! Prinsesa, anong oras na baka natulo pa iyang laway mo? Ewww! Bumangon ka na. Ikaw na rin muna bahala kay Agua ah. I'll be back in a few days or so. Kasi baka ma-miss mo ako! Bleh! Love you! 🤢

Natawa naman ako sa mga nabasa ko. Siraulo talaga si Ella kahit kailan. Lagi man niya akong pinapagalitan about kay Alyssa pero panay rin naman ang pang aasar. Masyadong balimbing.

Naiiling akong nagtype ng reply rito.

To: Jorella Marie

Besh! Kakainis ka naman dapat di ka na muna nag training today alam mo palang dadating sila eh! Humanda ka sa akin pag balik mo. And nope! Malaki na si Alyssa bakit naman ako pa ang bahala sa kaniya? Tigilan mo na yang mga ganiyang banat mo ha. Anyway, mag ingat ka and bumalik ka whenever you can! Love you kahit nakakabwisit yang mukha mo! 🤢😋

Sent!

Okay, that's done. Now, going back to reality.

I sighed deeply as I look at my reflection in the mirror.

You can do it, Dennise! Try not to break down, aight?

Yeah right. Ngayon pa nga lang ay naiiyak na ako.

Bahala na po kayo Lord.

-

I heard the front gate bell rang. Baka sila na yan.

My phone also beeped twice and when I checked it there were two messages.

One from Jus and one from Ella.

I opened Ella's message first.

From: Jorella Marie

Yeah whatever! I'll see you soonest, okay? Siguraduhin mo lang na titirhan mo ako ng pagkaing dala nila nanay Pabs ha and pakisabi dadalaw dalawin na lang natin sila dun sa Batangas if di kami magpangita dyan. Okay? Again, don't worry yourself too much. They missed you, Den. Let yourself be their princess again. Just let yourself be.

Got to go, nag refill lang tank. Heading to training now. Adios!

-

From: Justine Lazaro

Ate? I know you're up already. They're here! Bumaba ka na bago pa ako paakyatin na naman ni mom para lang sunduin ka! Grrr! Faster Valdez family's fave daughter!

Tignan mo, pati itong isa. Napaka talaga ng mga taong ito.

Anyway, that was true. They treated me like a real princess way back then.

*Sighs* Hopefully we can atleast get back to being close again after a few years of no communication.

-

I decided to wear something not too casual, but not too formal also – my navy blue dress. And put on some light makeup too.

I laughed at myself thinking this is how I looked like when Ly said she wanted to re-introduce me to her family as her girlfriend.

Oh, the good ol' days. I miss them. I miss her.

Tsk tsk. Enough with this for now. Gotta get my butt downstairs before Justine gives me an earful.

-

As I walk down the stairs I can already hear my family and Ly's parents talking with full enthusiasm.

When I am about to reach the end of the stairs, there she is, patiently waiting for me with her hand being offered for me to hold on to which I happily accepted.

"You look gorgeous, Dennise.", she said out of nowhere.

Can't help but to feel happy and shy at the same time. My face feels hot too.

Shoot. Stop staring Ly!

"T-thanks.", I answered and gave her the same look she's giving me.

"Ehem! Guys, we're still here.", Jus said, making their presence known to the two of us.

"Y-yeah, we know.", I answered and pulled my hand from Alyssa's.

"Ineng!"

"Anak!"

"Ate Den!"

Nanay, tatay and Kian called out to me.

"Nay! Tay! Bunso!", pagtawag ko ring pabalik sa kanila at yumakap sa mga ito.

I'm so happy. I was not expecting this reaction from them nevertheless I am grateful.

"Anak, kamusta ka na? Sobrang tagal na nung huli ka naming nakita ng iyong tatay ah? Parang namayat ka Dennise Michelle. Ano bang nangyayari anak?", nanay Pablita asked with her concerned voice as she checks up on me.

"Nay. I'm okay. Stressed lang sa mga bagay bagay but that's normal. Kayo po nay, tay? Kamusta po ang health niyo? Napapacheck up ho ba kayo ng mga kuya? Teka nasaan po pala sila?"

"May mga lakad anak, sabi nila e susunod raw sila kapag kinaya ng oras. Pero anak mabalik tayo sa iyo. Kamusta ka? Namiss ka ng tatay ah. Natatanggap mo ba iyong mga pinapadala ko sa iyo?", tatay Ruel asked.

"Tay? Alin po?", takang tanong ko rito.

"Yung tulips tuwing birthday mo?"

"What??? Sa inyo po galing iyong mga yun Tay?" Oh my gosh. I didn't have any idea.", mangiyak ngiyak ko namang sambit.

Oh no. So that was tatay then? I thought si dad yun. Dahil I did not expect them to still care for me or remember me atleast after I left Alyssa. But they are always proving me wrong.

"Oo anak, pati yung mga supplements every month. Sa iyong nanay naman yun galing."

"Really? Nay? I'm sorry I didn't really know. Akala ko po galing kina mom yun.", now nangingilid na talaga ang mga luha ko sa mga naririnig ko sa kanila. I'm so blessed to still be loved by them. And I feel guilty.

"Mahal na mahal ka talaga ng mga nanay at tatay mo.", sambit ni mom sa akin.

"Kaya nga kampante kami noong naging kayo ni Alyssa, Dennise. We know you'll be loved not just by Ly but also by her family.", dagdag pa ni dad.

And with that last statement, I lost it.

Hindi ko na napigilan ang mga luha ko. I am happy but I also feel super sad. This family right here is supposed to be my extended family with her. I should be with Alyssa pero no, I am not and they will never be my in laws.

"Naku tahan na ineng. Masayang masaya kaming narito ka at kasama namin."

"I'm sorry nay, tay. Pasensya na po kung hindi ko kayo napuntahan sa matagal na panahon. I didn't know how to face you after our break up. I'm scared and I feel so ashamed for letting your daughter go. I promised to take care of her pero we still had to part ways. I am so sorry.", paghingi ko ng tawad sa mga ito. I want to reconcile with them. I still want them to be part of my life after all.

"Tahan na ineng. Naiintindihan namin. You needed space and it's okay. Hindi kami kailanman nagalit sa iyo ng iyong nanay ha? Mahal ka namin at walang pinagbago iyon. Masaya kami sa kung nasaan ka ngayon, kung ito man yung nag at mag papasaya sa iyo. Wala kaming ibang hangad kundi ang ikabubuti mo, sa piling man ni Alyssa o sa piling ng iba. Ikaw eh parati naming ituturing na anak. At lahat ng anak namin ay mahal na mahal namin.", tatay hugged me tight pero hindi pa rin natigilin ang luha ko.

Tay please know I never wanted anyone else but your precious daughter. I love her and will always do.

"Matthew get ate some water, please.",  I heard mom said.

"Okay mom."

"Anak, tahan na. You see your nanay and tatay are not mad at you. Okay? They love you just as much as they did before. Tahan na.", medyo natatawang sabi ni mom sa akin habang pinapatahan ako.

"Naku si ate, tahan na ate para kang baby. Sobrang spoiled mo kasi sa mga Valdez eh.", I heard her but couldn't care less dahil hindi pa rin nahinto mga luha ko. Hays nakakahiya!

Maya maya pa naramdaman kong lumayo sa pagkakayakap ko si nanay at may pamilyar na mga kamay ang humawak sa akin just like that I knew it was her so I threw myself at her – wrapped my arms around her neck and buried my head in her chest.

"Hey. It's okay. I'm here. You're fine.", I am now being enveloped by her arms as she tries soothing me by running her hand up and down on my back.

She also started humming You are my sunshine. This made me smile. She may be out of tune but she never fails to make me calm during times like this.

"Ly."

"Hmm?"

"You're out of tune.", I said jokingly while giggling my heart out.

"You're so mean. You know I love singing but music can't love me back."

"Right.", sabi ko rito at muling yumakap sa kaniya.

"Are you okay now?"

"I am okay for a while now, especially when you started humming... out of tune.", biro kong muli and pulled out from the hug just enough for me to look at her.

"I don't mind being called out of tune if it makes you giggle like that. I'd keep being out of tune.", she said lovingly while wiping my tears out.

"Yeah and I love it whenever you make me giggle like this. It makes my heart melt. Thank you, Ly.", tugon ko sa kaniya while I held her face and gave her a peck on the cheek.

Tuluyan na rin akong kumalas sa pagkakayakap rito at pumunta sa kusina, joining mom, nanay, Jus and ate Cecil our beloved house help.

I took another glance from where I left Alyssa and she's still standing there doing nothing.

Maybe she was stunned by my kiss.

Napailing na lang ako at napangiti sa naisip ko saka ibinalik na rin ang atensyon sa mga kasama ko.

-

I just got inside. I helped Alyssa bring some meat outside for tatay and dad to grill.

I had a little conversation with Ly and I found out that she knew all along that LA doesn't know that we were in a relationship before.

And I saw questions and pain in her eyes but I didn't pushed her further.

Those kind of conversations always lead us to unravelling things that are best kept undiscussed.

We had a great lunch as if walang small talk na ganoong nangyari kanina.

I spent my whole day clinging into nanay Pablita and bonding also with my mom, Jus and ate Cecil.

We were in the kitchen preparing for our supper when I heard Mosh calling her ate Alyssa so pasimple rin akong tumingin sa sala kung nasaan sila.

"Hi ate! We just finished playing basketball since you're too busy bonding with the old men instead of us, you owe us time tomorrow ha!", kantiyaw ni Matthew rito.

"Oo nga ate! Akala ko pa naman makakapag laban tayong tatlo nila Mosh. Bukas na lang ate ha?", dagdag pa ni Kian.

"Alright alright. I promise. Tomorrow.", sagot ng ate Alyssa nila.

Si mom naman na nanonood rin pala sa mga ito ay biglang tumayo at pumunta kay Alyssa.

"My goodness anak! Are you drunk? Pambihira talaga yang mga yan hinayaan ka magpakalasing. Umakyat ka na muna ha magpahinga ka dun.", mom said, worried about her favorite daughter.

I just watched Alyssa being attended to by my mom.

I was caught staring but I didn't care. However, she immediately shifted her gaze to mom as if avoiding mine.

"Mom, I'm not d-drunk. Okay? Kulang pa nga iyon eh. It's not, uhm it's not bitter enough to c-cover what I am feeling inside.", mahina man ay sapat lang para umabot rito ang sinabi ni Alyssa.

I felt my heart shattered to pieces.

Nanay gave me a worried look and held my hand tightly. No words needed, mother's instinct indeed.

"Ate I'll help you get into your room!", rinig kong sigaw ni Justine and it got me alarmed.

My feet suddenly had a mind of its own and rushed to where Alyssa was headed.

I wrapped my arms around her waist as I guide her up the stairs because this tall girl with her huge body frame almost slipped.

"W-what do you think you're doing? I can do this by myself, D-Dennise.", pagmamatigas nito.

"Says the person who almost slipped. Keep your head up para hindi ka mahilo."

"Stop."

"What now? Come on, Ly baka matumba tayo parehas."

Huminga pa ito ng malalim bago tuluyang lumakad.

Inside her room, I guided her to sit on her bed.

"There you go. When did you start taking that much alcohol anyway? You're not a heavy drinker.", I asked, and it gained a sarcastic laugh from her.

"Really? You're asking when? You should know better."

I just gave her a confused look.

"Wow! Alright, well let me remind you then if nakalimutan mo na. Kailan nga ba yun? Ah! That's when you left me all of a sudden. That's when it started, Dennise."

"Ly. I thought we've talked about this already? And I will not have this conversation when you're too intoxicated. Take a rest.", this is what I was trying to avoid. Opening up a conversation we couldn't even finish.

"And you'll just walk out on me again. Of course what am I expecting?"

"I'm so tired of this – of not knowing. I just wish I know what the reason was para kahit somehow alam ko kung paano aalis sa lugar kung saan mo ako iniwan mag isa."

I'm close to crying pero pinipigilan ko. Ayoko siyang sabayan dahil alam ko bukod sa nararamdaman niya ay may tulak na rin ng alkohol ang mga salita nito.

It pains me so much to see her like this.

"I hate to admit it to myself, but no matter how broken I was when you left, I s-still want you back.", she said with her eyes closing as she's drifting off due to alcohol.

She carelessly slumped her body on the bed.

I just watched her as I don't know how to react with what she just said.

She– she still wants me back?

She wants me back!!!

Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh!

Besh! Where are you when I need you the most! Like right now! My gosh.

"Ly.", napatakip naman ako sa bibig ko dahil gusto kong humagulgol sa saya.

All these years, babe. You still want me back.

Miracles do happen, don't they?

With my trembling knees, I walked towards the bed and sat beside her.

I fixed some loose hair that's on her face and run my finger from the bridge of her nose and to her cheek.

I smiled as I answered to her confession earlier.-

"And I want you to take me back, Alyssa.", I cupped her face with both hands and closed the gap that's between us.

It was gentle at first but when my emotions kicked in, it became a little bit intense than what I intended to.

I can feel her responding but not to my liking.

What do you think huh? She's drunk, lady! Get to your senses!

Hays. What can I do? I missed her lips. I missed her.

After a minute or so I pulled myself away from her to look into her face again.

I wiped my tears as I speak to the sleepy head beside me.

"I love you so much, Ly. Gosh I never stopped. But in time, I hope you can forgive me for leaving you behind. Damn it hurts like hell, but I really had to mahal. I'm so sorry, baby. It hurts too much but I'd rather see you like this than not to see you at all. Mahal na mahal na mahal kita, please don't you ever forget that. I wish I could say these things when you're sober and when you can look into my eyes. I love you so much, Alyssa.", and gave her another peck on her lips.

I carefully helped myself out of her room and went straight for our garden.

-

I think I have been sitting here for an hour now with nothing in my head at all.

Just staring blanky sa kawalan.

I bit my lower lip when I remembered our kiss.

Which was stolen, duh.

Shut up! It's still a kiss worth dying for.

I also remember how she confessed her true feelings even when she's not sober, my heart started to feel bothered again but happy.

Yes, I am happy.

I am happy to hear those from her.

Bothered because I now confirmed that she's still hurting inside but always chooses not to show it.

She still loves me.

Damn, fairytales must be true and I am living in one.

Only that the 'evil one' also exists in this story.

Maybe it's time. I think this is the only thing that I needed to know all along.

That she still wants me back. Maybe, maybe we could fight our way through it — together.

But what if...

Oh no, not again. Shit. It still haunts me down. The 'what ifs'.

I sighed deeply with the non-stop scenarios running through my head.

I can also feel light-headed while my chest heaves heavily.

I wanted to cry to release the tension my body is feeling right now but cannot.

Please Lord. Help me. I can't breathe.

Then just like that, God did answer my prayer.

"Anak? Dennise? Malamok rito princess, why are you here alone?"

"Nay.", I just looked at her and she immediately gave me her sweet smile and hugged me tightly while rubbing my back.

That's when I lost it. That's when I got to release whatever I have been holding inside of me.

I clutched my fist in helm of her blouse like a kid while crying my heart out.

"Nandito lang si nanay, ineng Dennise. It's gonna be okay.", wika ni nanay Pablita.

Maya maya ay naramdaman ko na lang na kumakalma na ang pakiramdam ko habang pirmeng nakayakap lang kay nanay.

"Nay. T-Thank you po. I'm okay now."

Ngumiti naman ito sa akin at hinalikan ako sa noo.

"Mabuti kung ganoon. Kapag ready ka na anak, sumunod ka na sa loob at maghahapunan na tayo ha? Punasan natin yang mga luha mo anak."

"Salamat nay. I'll get inside in a just a bit po."

"Hmm. It's okay anak. We'll be there, okay? I love you anak."

"Love you nay. Namiss ko po kayo nang sobra."

"Alam ko. Kaya we'll bond as much as we can, okay? Siya sige na anak. I'll leave you to it muna. Get inside ha it's getting cold here."

I nodded as a response and then nanay left already.

Ly, please just wait for me. I'll let you know about everything.

-

"Ineng, Dennise! Umupo ka na dine anak. Nagluto ako ng mga paborito mong ulam. Parine ka na.", nakangiting tawag ni tatay Ruel.

I smiled back at him.

Alyssa really got his smile from tatay.

"Hi tay, wow. Ang bango ng mga iyan ah! Thank you po sa pagluto ng mga iyan tay. I will eat nang maraming marami!", pabiro kong sagot rito that made him laugh.

"Ikaw talaga anak, pero hinay hinay lang at baka manakit na naman iyang tiyan mo ha? Siya sige maupo ka na."

"Wow! Ang daming food! Thank you po tatay Ruel! You're the best!", that was Jus na kabababa lang from her room.

"Mosh, Kian, where's ate Alyssa? And nanay Pabling niyo? Call them already so we can eat kamo."

"Let's go Ki! Let's get nanay and ate Ly!"

"Sige tara!"

Natawa naman ang mga kasama ko rito sa dining.

"Talaga iyang dalawang bata pag nagsama e napakagagaslaw.", komento ni tatay sa dalawang bunso.

"Ay kumpadre, sinabi mo pa. Maghapon nga dibang nagbasketball. Kung hindi pa pagagalitan ng mommy at nanay nila e di pa titigil.", pag sang ayon naman ni dad at nagtawanan na naman ang mga ito.

"Oh ayan na ulit sila oh. Naku magalusan kayo dyan sa hagdan pagbubuhulin ko talaga kayong dalawa ha. Matthew Joshua I'm telling you ha.", mom warned the two kids.

I was just watching them with a weak smile plastered on my face as I waited for nanay and Alyssa to come down the stairs.

Then there was nanay, followed by Alyssa.

They were silently walking now towards the dining and I saw how Alyssa took a deep breath before smiling at us.

"Hi guys. Sorry about earlier, I thought I could hold my alcohol better now. I'm really sorry.", she said sincerely.

"Ha! I told you didn't I, young lady? But it's okay, as long as you get wasted in our home and hindi kung saan saan. Hindi ba kumpadre?", dad said to her.

"Oo tama ang daddy niyo anak. Siguraduhin mo laang na sa bahay ka lamang maglalasing nang gay-an."

"Sorry tay, dad. I promise."

"It's okay anak. Maupo na kayo nang makakain na tayo.", mommy said.

While our dad and tatay just nodded and smiled at her.

There was two spaces available – one beside me and one beside tatay.

I thought she would be sitting beside tatay after what happened before she passed out but I was wrong. I'm glad I was wrong.

She sat beside me.

"Den, I'm sorry for being a jerk earlier. I didn't mean whatever I said."

"What? Oh no, Ly. You're totally wasted and I'm glad you're a bit sober now."

"Oh yeah. I am. So much.", sabi nito sabay ngumiti nang pagkatamis tamis.

"Excuse us guys, can we now pray?"

And of course, it was Justine.

Both of us looked away from each other.

"S-sure. Sorry Jus. Go on."

Justine even clapped which made everyone let a soft laugh before leading the prayer and after that we had a good dinner with the whole family.

-

"Hi Dennise Michelle Garcia Lazaro! How are you?!", sigaw ni Ella from the other line.

"Ouch besh naman! Ang ingay ingay mo kahit kailan!"

"Ay wow, para namang di mo ako namimiss kung makaarte. Anyway, so ano yung tinext mo sa akin? Have you thought about it? Like with so much consideration?"

"Of course, I-I did."

"OH MY GOSH! ARRRRRGH! FINALLY! DENNISE! I AM SO PROUD OF YOU! OH MY GOSH! WAAAA– Ay sorry sorry guys. Tuloy lang kayo diyan. No, no. Hindi si Ly to. Ha? How did you know? Ah. Hahaha fine. Hi Den! Sorry sorry si Julia kasi ang ingay. Gusto ka kamustahin. Oh bilisan mo na."

"Ate Denniseeeeee! I miss you so much! I have been sending you a lot of texts and chats but I can't reach you. I miss you! How's the hand? Anyway I will visit you by the end of the month if that's okay? Love you ate!"

"Hi Julia Melissa. I've missed you too. And yes, I guess you may visit here by that time. Just let your ate Ella know ha kasi alam mo naman PA ko iyan eh. But seriously, I'm just a bit occupied with the therapy and other stuff so I'm sorry kung di ko nasasagot messages mo ha. I'll make it up to you, sweetie."

"Okay ate huhu I really miss you. Wait ate are you busy because of the wedding prep?"

I was not able to answer.

The wedding.

"Julia!! Sorry, sorry I have somethin' urgent to tell your ate Dennise. Balik na kayo dun, I'll just finish this call. I'll be quick go go go!"

"See you ate Denniseeeee ko!", rinig ko pang sigaw ni Julia.

"Besh? Hey? I'm sorry. Are you okay?"

"Yeah. Besh, I'm good. It's okay. Baka pagalitan mo pa yung bata ha. She doesn't know about it so okay lang."

"You sure you good? Alrighty then. Balik muna ako dun ha. Nagagalit na si coach She e. Love you! I'll be back in a few days. I'll call you later! Yes coach nandiyan na po! Got to go ha!"

*Toot toot toot*

Line got disconnected already.

I took a deep breath. Kung kailan ako naghahanda para sabihin kay Alyssa lahat, bigla naman akong pinapaalalahanan ng tadhana about dun sa 'wedding' na yun. Tsk.

It's been a week already. Nakauwi na rin sila nanay kahapon lang actually and we've shared tears pa bago makaalis. I told them we will visit them often para hindi na sila magtravel dito dahil medyo may edad na rin yung dalawa. Ayokong mapagod sila pabalik balik.

And Alyssa, as requested by my parents would extend her stay here.

Ate Therese also got to visit us with her husband the other day then everyone just really had a great time together.

Napagkwentuhan pa nga na hindi ko raw siya nakilala and about dun sa pagpapastay ni nanay kay ate Tere sa same condo where I was staying.

I didn't know nanay paid for ate Tere's unit just for her to look after me.

They've done so much for the last years while I did my bestest to keep myself away from them.

"Hey. You're thinking out loud."

"Huh?"

That's Alyssa. Giving me a cup of hot choco she made.

"Oh thanks Ly."

"Welcome. So, I heard Jia's name? Sorry I wasn't trying to listen in your private phone call.", she said while settling in the seat in front of me. We are currently at the porch of our house.

"Nah, it's okay. Yeah Ella called kasi just checking up on her eh nasa training pala sila today."

"Oh yeah, oh yeah. I was on a video conference with the team kanina for updates sa routine and plays habang wala ako and plans when I get back."

"Hmm. Ate Tere said you could be back in training in a day or two?"

She smiled warmly.

"Yeah. Oh my gosh, I missed playing."

"Yeah I could tell. You should really take extra care of yourself now, Ly. Hindi na tayo pabata and as we age, recovery becomes harder and slower."

"Says the one who always gets her legs and arms injured."

"That's my point. I know the struggle of it and I don't want you to experience that all the time. I hate seeing you getting injured kahit pa parte naman ng trabaho natin yun."

Napahinto ako sa sinabi ko. I bit my lower lip before chugging the hot choco down to hide my embarrasment.

Si Alyssa naman, nakangiti lang habang nakatingin sa akin.

"Well, what can I say? Thanks, I guess.", ngumiti pa ito nang mapang asar bago uminom muli mula sa tasa niya.

Napailing na lang ako sa nangyari.

"Anyway, Ly. Will you be free sa Saturday?"

"Saturday...", she checked her phone for her schedule.

"Y-yeah yeah I guess so. I'll be getting my clearance tomorrow from doc Therese then sa company doctor for confirmation tapos start ng training day after and rest again tapos Saturday would be another free day so yeah. Why what's happening on Saturday?"

Since I've made my mind up already. I wanted to tell her sa Sabado. I also wanted my family to be there after kong sabihin kay Ly para mapagplanuhan namin kung ano yung mga susunod na kailangang gawin.

Ella told me LA has called her multiple times this week also, saying he would be home by next month.

I haven't open my phone since the incident.

I just can't and I have been using a new phone, new sim card – everything, to have proper communication with my family, Ella and ate Tere. Other than them, I don't have any way of conversing to the outside world. Even the sports media whose trying to get updates about me through my talent company.

This is the only way I would cut communication with LA's father. So far, just like what dad said, he won't be able to do anything if I am here inside our premise, syempre if Alyssa's also here.

Dad also mentioned that Alyssa's family's security has been very effective and serious about their job. Which made me feel relieved somehow, because I am also too scared about their safety.

For the past few weeks I feel safe. I feel at peace.

I really have to do it as soon as I can, lalabas si Ly sa bahay and paano kung someone harms her during her time outside?

I can't let that happen.

"You know what Ly, scratch what I said. Do you have time to talk now?"

"What about?"

"Us."

I saw shock in her eyes.

Yeah. Let me get through it already.

"H-huh? W-what, wait. What about 'us'?

"Ly, you will have to brace yourself for whatever I will be telling you."

She gulped and put the mug she was holding down the table.

"You're making me nervous. Did I do something wrong? Was it the drink?"

I gave her a smile.

"No silly."

She held her chest as if she was really scared.

"Ohh. Alright. I thought I did something wrong."

"You didn't, but I did."

She creases her forehead.

"Y-yeah? I can't recall anything."

"Alyssa. I'm still in love with you."

-

Alyssa's P.O.V.

"Alyssa. I'm still in love with you."

My heart almost fell out of my chest when I heard these words from her.

I was just looking at her directly.

"Ly, I love you. I never stopped loving you."

"D-Den. What are you saying?"

"Can't you understand what this is about?"

I shook my head in confusion and grabbed my cup of now-cold chocolate drink and drank until the last drop.

"Den. If you're pranking me, you better stop right there and then."

She smiled sadly.

"I am not. I'm being for real."

"Dennise. You're about to get married."

"I never said I wanted to get married, to him."

What? Will she tell me now what really happened?

Huminga muna ako nang malalim dahil parang hindi ko kakayanin kung ano mang malalaman ko ngayong araw.

"Dennise. This, whatever this is. Have you thought about this? Are you sure you're ready to tell me what you are about to tell me?"

Noong nakaraan, I was thinking of going back to my condo. So that she would have time to think about what we have talked about. But with what I have learned noong nakaraang nalasing ako, it changed everything. I was willing to give it a try, to make things clear.

But with her now saying these to my face, maybe this is it. Maybe we should face this together.

"I did. Alyssa. I did."

"I don't want to be assuming things out pero baka naapektuhan yung pagdedesisyon mo dahil nandito ako? Maybe you're just confused. Ayokong makasira ng relasyon, Dennise."

"Wala kang sinisirang relasyon. Dahil simula pa naman ay walang totoong relasyon na dapat sirain. But our relationship, that needs to be fixed. Ly, I left you. I hurt you, yet you know nothing about it. And now, I am ready to tell you what really happened. I'm ready now Alyssa. I just need you to be strong enough, brave enough to hold hand again.", tears started escaping her beautiful brown eyes.

I couldn't say anything. But I wanted to hug her so she'd know I will listen to whatever she has to say.

Instead, I gave her a nod. A sign for her to tell me what happened.

She started her story by telling me what was her family's relationship with the Revillas specifically dad's relationship with LA's father.

She said there was a contract made between the two businessmen but it was unbeknownst to his father and his father was forced by their lolo's business to agree to it.

Later on, they found out it was a contract to have the Revilla's only son to be married to her.

She said dad tried to pay whatever money that was lent to him and even more than the actual amount but LA's father was too powerful and said they will not have any other way out of it so dad just asked LA's old man to just let Dennise finish her studies first bago sila ikasal.

And that's when Dennise was almost done with college, LA reached out to him from the US.

That's during our aniversary.

"I was about to get home to you when suddenly I received a phone call from LA's father. H-He, he said he knows about us. He threatened me that he's gonna hurt you and your family if I don't stop our relationship. He knows where your family lives. I-I didn't know what else to do, Ly. I never intended to leave you. Hell, I never wanted to live without you.", sabi nito at lalong lumakas ang pag iyak niya.

My hands formed a fist. I feel so enraged hearing these from her.

But sa kabila ng galit na nararamdaman ko ay lubhang pagkaawa at lungkot para kay Dennise ang naramdaman ko. I can never imagine what she had to go through para lang hindi ako, pati na ang pamilya ko, mapahamak.

I stood up, walked up to her and knelt in front of her.

I held her face with my right hand wiping her tears off, and held her hand using my left.

"Dennise. I love you so much. I also never stopped loving you. I love you so much and I promise, I will get you home. I'll get you home, baby."

I closed the gap between us and pulled her in for a passionate kiss.

Tears are also starting to pour from my eyes as I felt her responding to my kisses.

This is it. No more turning back. No more investigation needed, I will fight for her.

I will get her through this and I will take back what's mine.

After feeling lack of air we both separated from the kiss and put our foreheads against each other's.

She wrapped her arms around my neck and I hugged back her from her waist.

"Ly, I'm so scared. I'm even terrified. What are we going to do now?"

"Babe, hey. We're going to be just fine. We'll talk about this with our families first, then we'll definitely involve legal into this. There's nothing I wouldn't do for you, Dennise. I will get you home mahal."

She pulled herself away and looked into my eyes. She cupped my face with both hands.

"Alyssa. I never thought I would hear those words from you again. I can't believe this. I just can't."

I smiled at her and pinched the tip of her nose lightly.

"See? It's real. You did it babe. You finally let me know what happened. I'm so grateful sayo mahal. You did it. I'm proud of you baby."

"You're being too cheesy now."

"Because I intend to, you silly."

"Gosh, Ly. I've missed you so much you don't have any idea."

"Hmm. I guess I did have an idea. I just didn't wanna assume."

"Conceited."

"Hey! No fair."

"I'm kidding, love. Oh my gosh, so I get to call you like this again? I'm so happy!"

"You're such a kid, babe. But yes and no. Not yet. We haven't told our families yet. We haven't talked to, uhm.", I was hesitant to say fiancé.

"Hmm? To whom?"

"To LA.", there, better.

She nodded at me.

"But Ly, I told LA I would marry him yes, but just for the sake of that stupid contract. I made it clear to him that I will never fall in love with him."

"You told him that?"

"Yes. How can I love someone else when I left my heart and soul with you? Potato head."

Binigyan ko ito ng mapang asar na ngiti, "Hmm, who's being cheesy now huh?".

Kinurot naman niya ang balikat ko.

"I'm telling you the truth! I loved you since what? Elementary? Gosh, that's too long ago."

"I know. And I love you too ever since."

"But baby wait, seriously, what's gonna happen now?"

"We'll figure it out, Dennise."

She nodded as a response and this time she pulled me in for another kiss.

"Michelle, what the hell is this?!"

---

Author's Note:

Hi guys! Really sorry. Too busy with life and all but I have been trying to put this chapter together for the whole week, while working 😩

Thank you all for patiently waiting 🥺

So there we have it! Pinaalam na nga ni Dennise kay Alyssa what really happened. 😱

Magkakabalikan na nga ba sila? Matatakasan kaya ni Dennise ang hagupit ng mga Revilla?

At naku! Sino na naman ba itong dumating at nakakita dun sa dalawa?

Malalaman natin yan sa susunod na kabanata 😉

#fanfictiononly#forAD#nevershallwesink#illgetyouhome