8

LA's P.O.V.

I have been waiting for this day - to be finally home.

After 3 weeks of being away, I miss being home. I miss my soon-to-be wife, Michelle.

Yeah, I know. I know we will just get married because of some contract my father has forced against her family. Especially against her will.

I never wanted to play it out like that. I've always liked her since we were young. I learned about the contract when I was in my last year of college.

The news shooked me but somehow I couldn't contain the happiness from the thought that I'd be marrying the person I have always liked.

I tried talking dad out of it but he said it's already done and all I have to do now is to follow whatever I was told to do.

Kaya ayun. I mean, I love Michelle. I am in love with her. I want to marry her definitely, who wouldn't, right?

But when I came back from the US to meet with her 4 years ago, she said she doesn't want to do this and that she will never be marrying me out of love.

It hurt, a lot. But I have been trying my best not to eat up her personal space and not to let her feel that I am forcing myself to her.

I am still hoping that maybe someday, somehow, I can also make her see that my intentions with her are genuine.

Anyway, I am 3 minutes away from her parents' house. I know I didn't texted her best friend, Ella, na parating na ako. I kinda feel like surprising her today so I bought a bouquet of red roses and a box of chocolates. Hopefully she'd like these.

-

"Hi manang! Is her parents here? Is Michelle inside po?", I asked their helper, I don't know what her name was.

"Naku sir. Pasok po kayo, nasa likod na garden po si ma'am Dennise and parents po niya ay nasa sa loob. Gusto niyo po ba munang pumasok?"

"No need manang, I'll surprise her nalang sa likod bago kami pumasok. Thank you, manang!"

She then gave me a nod and instructed me to where I can find Michelle.

Habang papalapit, may kung anong kaba ang biglang pumitik sa puso ko.

Baka naeexcite lang. I don't know how she'll react pero anyway, I really wanna do this for her.

Pag dating sa likod ng bahay nila Michelle, halos maluwa naman ang mga mata ko.

Hindi ko inaasahang ako pala ang masusurpresa.

Parang nadurog sa milyon milnyong parte ang puso ko.

"Michelle, what the hell is this?!", pasigaw kong kinuha ang atensyon ni Michelle at ng taong...

...kahalikan niya.

Oo, may kahalikan siyang iba.

Oo, yung fiancé ko. Masayang nakikipagpalitan ng yakap at halik sa iba.

Ang masaklap pa, sa isang babae.

Hindi lang basta isang babae, kundi sa taong inaakala kong best friend niya.

Si Alyssa. Alyssa Valdez.

Nanlumo ang mga tuhod ko at halo halong emosyon ang nararamdaman ko.

I get it. Walang kami. Hindi talaga totoo itong relasyon na namamagitan sa amin. Pero, pero...

Masakit pa rin. Dahil minahal ko siya. Mahal ko siya, at handa akong gawin lahat para sa kaniya.

"LA?", sagot ni Michelle.

Mabilis itong tumayo at hinila sa likod niya si Alyssa.

I scoffed at them.

"Yeah, Michelle. It's me. I guess, you decided to welcome your fiancé in the most shocking way. I give that to you, you really gave me the shock of my life.", sarcastic kong tugon rito ngunit mababakas mo rin ang lungkot sa mga tinig ko.

"Luis, this is not how you're supposed to know what's between us from before. We're not trying to go behind your back or anything. I'm really sorry, for what you've witnessed. But Dennise already told me about your father's contract.", sabi ni Alyssa at binigyan pa nito ng tango si Michelle na para bang sinasabing 'okay lang'.

Nag aalala man ay ngumiti si Michelle rito at binigyan rin siya ng tango bilang tugon.

Napakaganda pala ng ngiti niya.

Sana ako iyon. Sana ako yung nginitian mo nang ganoon, Michelle.

Nakatingin lang ako habang papalapit si Alyssa sa akin, just enough for us to talk.

"I am truly sorry that you had to find out this way, but what you saw is something both of us have been trying to suppress for the longest time. Dennise and I were in a relationship before all this. We've been together for nine years, Luis. And on our 9th anniversary, you reached out to her then here comes your father with all the threats that have been keeping her in misery for the past few years of her life. Luis, this is not right and you know that. So again, I'm sorry that you had to find out this way but I will never be sorry that I am taking back what's mine. No more upcoming wedding for the two of you.", marahan man ay may paninindigang sinabi ito ni Alyssa.

What? 9 years? They've been together that long? And hold on... she's calling our wedding off? The hell???

"That's plain bullshit! Do you think this is as easy as that?! Michelle! You have to clear your mind up! Even if our relationship is nothing but a contract to you, I love you. I always have. I won't just give up on you. My dad, you know how he is. He won't let this slide, Michelle.", I wanted to act strong, I wanna show them I also deserve to get a chance with her.

"LA, this will never work. I already forgot the meaning of life when I was forced to get separated with Alyssa. You know that. You saw how sad I was for all those years. If you really love me, if you really loved me, you should know better."

"That's why I tried everything I possibly could to make you somehow happy, to live your life, with me!"

"It didn't work out, did it? Please, LA. I appreciate you. All of your efforts and affection but I could never return them and it will only be unfair for the two of us. What would your dad get out of us being married anyway?"

"He said he'll disown me if I don't get married, to you. And all of the support he's been giving will be stopped. Not only those, he said he won't forgive me or you if we ever try to stop his plans."

"Why is he so eager to have you and Dennise tied up? Not that I would allow it to happen lalo na't alam ko na ang totoo but what's with your father? Is he obsessed with Dennise? I just don't fucking get it."

"I don't know. Maybe ayaw niyang mapahiya. Because it was a done deal noon pa man. Michelle knows about it. But anyhow, dad will never allow this. I'm sorry about how I reacted earlier. And Alyssa, I may not know it before pero it truly shows how much you love Michelle. Remember the first time we met? Nawalan siya ng malay and you were so quick to catch her. I knew then and there, she's special to you. By the way you held her and looked at her. I knew but I just can't let the thought bother me as I knew you as her best friend."

"Yeah well maybe that still showed after trying my bestest not to let it be obvious. Luis, Dennise is the only person I have ever loved, the only one I will ever love. This is gonna be a losing game for you if you don't give her up, okay? Just look how much she's suffered. She doesn't deserve this. I wanna give you a heads up though, I will do everything in my power to make your father pay for this. If you don't want to get involved, let go now."

I smiled at her.

"You don't know my father, miss Valdez. Hell will break loose once he finds out."

"Then I'll give him the devil he's been searching for.", she said with a grin on her face. She grabs Michelle's hand and said something to her to which the latter nodded on as a response.

"Luis, I know you're a good person. Please choose to do what's right. I'll leave you two to talk. I trust you with her because I can also see how much you love her. But, somehow, you'll have to learn to let her go. She's not yours to begin with. Okay? It's painful I know, but imagine how much painful it was for us. We've been robbed of our chance, our happiness. For Dennise, please you have to endure all those things. She deserves to be free. Okay? If you love her, you know she deserves to be free.", she held her hand out and I reached out to it for a hand shake.

"I will try my best. Still not cool to see you two like that earlier though. Just sayin'.", pagbibiro ko pa rito which gained a soft laugh from Alyssa.

She gave me a light tap on my shoulder before heading out, leaving me and Michelle alone.

Yeah. I know. I took this lightly. Very lightly. I should've made a scene, I should have been more angry with them. Pero hindi ko kaya. Tama si Alyssa. Michelle has suffered more than enough. She deserves to be free.

I can't see her like that anymore, well, noon I thought I could.

But that was me not knowing that she has to leave someone special behind para lang tigilan ni dad si Alyssa.

That's love.

And she can't give it to me.

With that thought, my tears came rushing.

I looked at Michelle who seems not to know what she has to do. Or if she has to do anything at all.

"I-I'm sorry, Michelle. I truly am.", paghingi ko ng tawad rito habang tuloy pa rin ang pag tulo ng aking mga luha.

I saw her walking towards me.

"LA, you've been a great great guy. I know you since we were kids. I know deep down, although you said before na wala kang magagawa with your father's decision, I know you didn't want to push this through if it is against my will. I know you. And that's still within you."

I looked at her with a sad smile.

"I just hope you know how much I love you, but yeah of course, yeah. I understand now, it was Alyssa all along. It's just... I, I got you these.", then I showed her the bouquet of red roses and a box of chocolate I bought for her.

She looked at my hands that are holding my gifts for her. She grabbed those and put them on the coffee table before pulling me in for a hug.

"Thank you. I couldn't thank you enough, I know there would be a lot of things we need to face ahead of us, lalo na ang dad mo. Pero this is me thanking you - for letting me face everything in front of me with the person I will need the most. The person I wanna be with the most no matter how hard it would get. Someday, you'll find that someone as well. I pray all the best for you, LA.", she then gave me a quick peck on my cheek before pulling away from the hug.

"Michelle. I don't know how to tell dad about this."

"You don't have to do it alone. We'll talk to your father with my family and with Alyssa as well. He knows about her and her family. We will have to settle this thing for once and for all."

"I know, b-but... You know how dad is. I am his only son, and now, losing you - he will definitely deny me as his own."

"You have to stand for what's right. And not all the time our parents' really know what's best for us. May mga pagkukulang at kalabisan rin sila na minsan hindi nila narerealize. Maybe you could help him realize that.", she said with her calm voice while looking straight into my eyes with all sincerity.

This is the first time we've talked this way.

Walang sama ng loob, walang galit or anything.

She looks at peace. Just knowing that Alyssa would be there for her now, she looks so happy and it looks like as if she's never been in a horrible situation.

I didn't know she could smile like this, talk like this or be happy like this.

She's right. They are right. I have to let her go so she could live the life she deserves.

And I, I think I love her so much that I am willing to give her that freedom. Although I have been so selfish for too long before realizing that.

It breaks my heart, but I will be happy to see her living her life.

Now, I will need to be man enough to face my father.

This is for you, Michelle.

I took a deep breath and flashed a smile on my lips before giving her my answer.

"Alright. If this is what will really make you happy, then sino ba ako para pigilan iyon? Just live your life. And don't worry about me. I'll talk to dad. I think I am old enough to be making my own decisions and Michelle, please I hope you can still forgive me for being selfish. I could have said no before, I just I-I didn't know how and I don't know if I could actually turn my back from him. But for you, for your happiness, I will let you go. Just please be happy, be okay. Alright? I love you.", I pulled her in to my arms and gave her a kiss on her forehead.

I felt her hugging me back, this made me smile.

I pulled away from the hug.

"I wanted to talk to your parents if I may?", I asked her.

"Of course, they will appreciate that. And we actually have not talked to them about this yet, so, anyway. Come, let's go inside."

I gave her a nod and let her lead our way in to their house.

-

Pagkapasok namin sa bahay nila, her parents are already in their living room with Alyssa.

Just casually talking.

Nahihiya ako. How can I say in front of her parents na mahal ko ang anak nila? Or minahal ko ang anak nila?

All I ever did was to follow what I was being told.

I feel so little. Ni wala akong maipagmamalaki sa kanila na kahit ano.

"Hey, you okay? Come on. This ain't your first time meeting them. Is it?", natatawang tanong ng katabi ko habang papalapit kung saan nakaupo ang mga magulang nito.

"Come on, I feel so ashamed of what my dad has done. Lalo na that I didn't stood up for what's right."

She gave me another warm smile, "They know you simula bata pa tayo. They know how your dad handles things and that even you, his only son, kaya niyang i punish nang ganon ganon na lang. They understand."

"Yeah? You've got great parents then."

"Indeed. So halika na."

"Hey mom, dad! LA's here.", pagtawag nito sa atensyon nila.

"Oh hi iho! Napaaga yata ang uwi mo? Kamusta ang flight?", masiglang bati ng mommy niya bago bumeso at yumakap sa akin.

"Hi ma'am. We'll, tiring but it's all good. Thank you for asking. I brought you some pasalubong po I'll get it from the car."

"It's okay iho. Ate Cecil, pasuyo naman ng mga dala ni LA patulong ka muna kay manong I'm sure nasa garden yun siya. LA give ate Cecil your car's key, nasa trunk ba mga dala mo?"

"Yes po ma'am. Ate Cecil, just everything from the back, pakidala po rito. Ito po yung susi. Salamat po."

"Sige po sir.", sagot ni Ate Cecil. Ayun pala name ni manang.

"Hi, sir.", bati ko sa dad ni Michelle. At kinamayan ito.

Tinanguan lamang ako ng dad niya. This is what I always get from his dad anyway. I'm sure as a father, he hates me in every way just like he hates my dad for what he's done with her precious daughter.

It's our fault. So I can't blame him really.

"Maupo na muna tayo, iho take a seat."

"Salamat po, ma'am."

There was an awkward silence after we settled on our seats.

Michelle was the one to break it for the group.

"So, mom and dad. LA and I has something to say."

"Uhm sorry Dennise, should I excuse myself?", Alyssa politely asked.

"No, Ly. I think you should just stay.", Michelle answered back which Alyssa just nodded to as a response and went back to where she was sitting.

"Okay? What is this about?", her mom asked.

Tumingin naman siya sa akin as if asking kung sino ang magsasalita for us.

I gave her a smile as a signal.

"Ma'am, sir. I'm not sure how much you know about what's going on between me and Michelle. But to put it simply, my father messed this whole thing up. No words can take back the last four years of your daughter's life. She was robbed of her freedom, she's lived her life in the dark and I am deeply regretful of being a part of it. Even not directly as I was just following my dad's orders, but I was too selfish to let Michelle go."

Her parents are just looking at me with a huge confusion in their faces.

"But seeing how she's always wanted to go and be free, how sad she was during the last four years - I, I can't go on with that. I loved your daughter with everything that I have, that I am. I still do. But this is me proving how I genuinely love her. We'll call the wedding off."

"You what now???"

"What's going on?"

Sabay na tanong ng mga magulang nito.

"Mom, dad. We're calling the wedding off.", malumanay man ay masaya ang tinig ni Michelle nang sumagot siya sa kaniyang mga magulang.

I saw how they shifted their heads to where Alyssa was sitting and back to where Michelle and I were.

"Hold on. Why?", her mom asked.

"Ma'am, we have it settled. We've talked about this just five minutes ago.", I answered with a sad smile on my face.

"How about your father? Does he knows about this?", her dad asked.

"No, not yet sir. I will have it figured out."

"Dennise? Have you thought about this? Thoroughly?"

"I did mom. I did. I have been contemplating for a while and I just could not help it anymore. I can't go on like this. I'm sorry, LA."

I shook my head and held her hand in mine.

"I want you to be happy. Okay?"

She just nodded and threw herself at me for a hug.

"Hey. Someone's watching.", pabulong kong biro rito.

She playfully slapped my shoulder and pulled away from the hug.

"Well, I mean, you both are old enough to talk these things out and we appreciate you guys for letting us know.", her dad giving us the go signal for whatever decision we've made.

"Your dad's right, iha. If you both are decided to do this then, we'll respect that decision. Like we always do. But iho, thank you, for giving our daughter a chance."

"She deserves all the best, ma'am."

Her parents approached us and gave us both their embrace and of course, a handshake from her dad.

"Thank you, Luis.", that was her dad.

"No sir. Thank you and I am deeply sorry for what we have caused you and your daughter. It was shameful but Michelle has taught me to fight for what is right. I will always bring that with me. I hope someday you can still forgive me, especially my dad."

"I know you understand how I feel towards this as her father. But I am also grateful that you didn't choose to become an evil and take her life away from her."

"She opened my eyes on that matter sir. But I just wanted to say that Alyssa over there, also gave me a lesson of a lifetime. She's gotta get some credit on this. A huge one, right Michelle?", I playfully nudge Michelle on her arm.

Sinamaan lamang ako ng tingin nito.

"Alyssa? Why is she being involved in this?", her mother asked the two of us.

"Ma'am I think this is where I leave. Your family has a lot to discuss and I don't see my presence longer needed on that.", then gave them a reassuring smile.

"Don't say that. You're a huge part of this.", Michelle said with a concern tone.

"Did you mean that positively or negatively?", I tried to throw another line at her.

"Come on, you're such a dork! But really, I am grateful and I promise to live a happy life, a very happy one. You should too. Okay?"

"Alright. I promise. Anyway, I'll leave you guys to it. I will just reach out to check up on you guys. Thank you again, ma'am and sir. Alyssa! I'll go ahead. Thanks again!"

-

"LA. Thank you, you drive safely okay? I'll call you if anything."

"Okay, Michelle. You head inside. I'll do the same, if anything comes up. Okay?"

"Okay.", she gave me another hug bago pumasok sa loob ng bahay nila.

I got inside my car, and took a deep sigh.

"Now I will have to face my father. I'll do this for Michelle. I'll do what's right, no matter what."

-

(Inside the Lazaro's residence)

Dennise's P.O.V

I could not believe what just happened!

Oh my gosh. I must be dreaming!

Aaaaaargh! My heart. My heart is about to explode.

Finally, (fingers' crossed) I will finally be free.

Free to live the life I have always wanted, life that I deserve.

Free to love the person I have been longing for.

Finally. Please, Lord.

Anyway kakaalis lang ni LA. Maraming nangyari and I until now I cannot get a grasp of it.

For now, I will have to explain to my parents what happened.

I think, Alyssa and I have to do that part together.

Together. Wow. I'm gonna cry.

Anyway, pabalik na ako sa couch and I'm sure dad and mom are thrilled.

"Hey guys.", bati ko sa tatlong taong naghihintay sa may couch.

"Anak, iha. Are you okay? Oh my goodness. How did that happen? Nag away ba kayo? How did you tell him? Why Aly's being mentioned kanina?", sunod sunod na tanong ni mom.

Natawa ako nang bahagya at pinaupo siya sa tabi ni dad.

Tinawag ko naman si Alyssa at pinaupo sa tabi ko kung saan katapat namin sina mom and dad.

Both of them gave us a questioning look.

I was about to speak up when this tall lady beside me decided to go on first.

"Ma'am, sir."

I whipped my head to my side where she is sitting.

Both of my parents still has that puzzled look in their faces when I returned my gaze to them.

Syempre, their "favorite" daughter just called them ma'am and sir with a very formal tone on top of that. Geez, she was exactly like this when she asked mom and dad if she can court me, before.

Anyhow, let's focus on what this wonderful lady has to say.

"I didn't mean to do something to make you feel disrespected in anyway, I will never do that. But I have a couple of things that I never told you about. Let me start with my relationship with Kiefer. Whatever you've seen or heard about us for the last four years, none of those were true. And currently, both our managements are still working on how to make our 'break up' publicized. I'm sorry if I made it look like I have moved on that fast, a year after Dennise and I broke up. Not even nanay and tatay know about this."

"I forced myself up to be in that situation with Kiefer because I got so devastated after Dennise left me - I didn't have a single clue on why she did that, I was lost and I thought I needed something to atleast protect myself from the embarrasment of being left behind when I found out she's already with someone else. But despite all the pain and angst I've felt, the other thing that I couldn't tell you before is that...", she paused for a moment, shifted her gaze to me and gave me her sweetest and warmest smile and she looked again back

"I never stopped loving your daughter. My heart's always been with her even after the day she's left. I tried to act cool being with her under the same roof, not wanting for any of you to notice but I guess my deep adoration for her just can't be kept in one place. It surely exploded the moment I saw her again. I love her still and always will."

With her opening her heart with my parents, my walls crumbled down and I started crying so hard while looking at her.

My parents however, doesn't seemed too surprised and they are just looking at the two of us as Alyssa adjusted her seat and scooped me into her arms.

"Hey. It's okay. I'm here.", pag aalo nito sa akin which immediately made me calm.

"So... Uhm are you two like back together again?", that was dad.

"Hon naman! Huwag mong sirain ang moment ng mga anak natin. Hayaan mo sila.", suway rito ni mom habang naiiyak iyak rin.

"What? I'm just curious!", biro pa ni dad.

Natawa naman si Alyssa at inilayo ako nang bahagya bago pinunasan ang mga luha ko.

She held my hand and asked my parents.

"Sir, ma'am. Kung mamarapatin niyo po sana, gusto ko pong ligawan ulit si Dennise."

Nagulat naman ako sa sinabi nito. Kinilig, actually.

Hinigpitan ko ang kapit sa kamay nito causing her to look at me.

She just gave me a nod.

"I know Dennise Michelle is old enough to be making her own decisions, but to pay respect to her great parents, I would like to get your permission first and foremost. Don't worry, I know we still got a lot to settle and I understand that. I'm in no rush, sir, ma'am."

"Very well, although you really didn't have to tell us everything anak, because we know from the start. We know how much you still love Dennise. Mas nauna ka pa nga sa aming makarating noong naospital iyan eh."

Mabilis akong napatingin kay dad.

I saw mom hitting dad's arms.

"Ooops. Sorry sorry. Ikaw na ang bahala magpaliwanag diyan, Baldo. And alam mo namang sa iyo lagi ang boto ko. We love you, iha. I know she's in good hands if she's with you. Alagaan niyo ang isa't isa. But for now, you two have a lot of things to catch up on. So, hon lalabas na ako dahil baka madamay pa ako rito. I'll be at the garden. Sumunod ka nalang.", natatawang sabi nito at mabilis na lumabas ng bahay after ako halikan sa ulo at bigyan ng fist bomb itong katabi ko.

"Mom?"

"Anak, I'm sure Alyssa here can explain herself just fine. Right iha? Just like how you presented yourself to me and dad. I love you both. Tama si dad, mag usap muna kayong dalawa and some time after, we'll talk about this as a family. You can call us mom and dad again, you know.", then mom gave Alyssa a playful wink and squeezed the two of us in a hug before heading out to the garden.

Now it's just me and Alyssa here in the living room.

Nagpapakiramdaman.

Pero, I was so curious with what dad said. And...

And the thought of her seeing me in that condition, oh no.

Please, no.

"Ly."

"Den."

Sabay naming tawag sa isa't isa.

"You go ahead.", sabi ko rito.

"It's okay, you go first. Whatever questions you have, let me clear them off of your mind."

I nodded in agreement.

"Dad said you were there in the hospital before them? I thought you were brought there around the same time as I was?"

"Oh. That?"

"Yeah?"

She clears her throat off and it was obvious that her body tensed up a bit.

"How honest do you want me to be?"

"With your heart, Ly. Tell me what you saw. Tell me what happened."

She gave me a nervous smile and rubbed her palms together before putting it on her ears.

She does this whenever she gets too anxious.

I wonder what she has to say but also, I don't want her to feel this tensed.

"Hey. Babe, we'll get through this okay? I just need to know what you saw and what actually happened.", pagpapakalma ko rito at kinuha ang dalawa niyang kamay.

"Babe? You're too fast."

"Wow ha. So you don't like it?"

"What?! I love it ano ka ba. Ayoko lang na mabilisan ka sa mga pangyayari."

"But we both know how much we've missed each other, don't we?"

"Still, I want to be deserving of your love. So, I'll court you properly and kapag sinagot mo na ako ulit then, we can be 'that' sweet again."

"So bawal pa 'to?", sabay mabilis ko siyang hinalikan sa labi.

"Babe! Baka makita tayo nila mom, or- or ng mga bata! Ikaw talaga.", nahihiyang saway nito sa akin habang lumilinga-linga sa paligid.

Natawa ako sa reaksyon niya.

"See? You just called me 'babe', babe. You're adorable."

"Fine, you got me. But still, let me court you again. Okay?"

"Are you asking or suggesting? I'm confused.", pang aasar ko rito.

"Fine, you know what?"

"What?"

May kinuha ito mula sa bulsa niya at lumuhod sa harap ko.

"Dennise Michelle Garcia Lazaro, I never thought I would still have a chance to ask you this again, ever. But here I am, on my knees, asking for another chance to continue our great love story that has momentarily ended. Will you let me court you again for the second time around and wear this ring as a reminder of how much I love to love you?"

Hindi ko naman napigilan ang mga luha ko habang tumatango sa taong nasa harapan ko at masaya niyang isinuot ang singsing... ko? Teka bakit nasa kaniya na naman yan?

Anyway... Mamaya ka na.

I grabbed her face with both my hands and pulled her in for a short but passionate kiss.

"I love you so much, baby. I too, didn't expect that this day will still come. But yes, court me everyday and never stop doing so. I love you, Ly! I've missed you so much.", tuloy tuloy kong sambit rito habang hinahalikan ang mga labi niya bago siya niyakap nang mahigpit.

"I love you, Dennise. Thank you. Thank you for allowing me to do this for you."

"Oh my gosh! Ate! What's this?! Matthew Joshua cover your eyes! Oh my! Mom?! Dad?!", sigaw ni Justine.

Napatigil naman kami sa pagyayakapan at napaayos ng upo.

Si Mosh nakatakip pa rin ang mga mata at hindi umalis sa kinatatayuan nito while si Jus ayun, hinahanap sina mom and dad.

Natatawa tawa pa itong katabi ko imbis na tulungan akong itago yung hiya ko.

Kinurot ko ang tagiliran niya dahil sa inis.

"Babe! Aray! What did I do? Ikaw itong hindi makapagpigil eh!"

"What?! Wow! Alyssa Caymo Valdez napakahangin mo pa rin talaga ano?! Baka gusto mong ibalik ko itong singsing na 'to? And teka nga! Pabigay bigay ka ng singsing e akin naman talaga ito, san mo na naman nakuha 'to ha? I made sure to keep it safe."

"Are you certain? I saw it on the kitchen counter just the other day. Napaka mo babe."

"Napaka ano???"

"Ganda. Hehehe.", sabi nito at kinurot ang ilong ko.

I swatted her hand.

"Napaka ano nga??"

"Ganda nga. Okay, kalma baby. I was about to say na nakapamakalilimutin mo but that won't slide right? Fine. Well, I asked ate Justine to find and get it for me, sabi ko ipalilinis ko kasi to surprise you. So she did. Okay? Forgive us just this once."

"This once. I've heard that thousands of times already. Kayo talaga. But no more sneaky business you two, or three or - or four. Hay grabe, pagtutulungan niyo na naman ako nila Ella for sure. And what can I expect, with team Baldo's come back, I totally doubt it."

"Hmm. Yes babe, team Baldo is definitely back and I can't wait to receive your 'come back' surprise for me.", she said with her seductive voice at dinikit nang bahagya ang mga labi sa tenga ko.

Mabilis akong lumayo at pinanlakihan ko ito ng mata dahil nasa malapit lang nakatayo si Mosh.

She just gave me a huge smile.

"Matthew Joshua, pwede mo ng alisin yang takip sa mata mo. I know you've been peeking young man.", pabirong sabi nito kay Mosh.

"Duh! Like I would! Anyway ates, are you... Kayo na ulit?"

"Hmm no, I mean... Not yet. Right, hon?", tanong nito sa akin.

"Hon mo mukha mo. Mosh you go right after your ate. Mag uusap pa kami ng ate Alyssa mo."

"Hmm. If I don't know any better, pinapaalis mo lang ako so you could be all sweet again! Oh no, you're like a lovesick puppy again. Im outta here, lovebirds!", pang aasar ni Mosh at inirapan ko lamang ito.

Lumapit ito sa ate Alyssa niya at yumakap.

"Good to have you back ate. Please make her happy everyday again, as you should. Okay? Love you ate.", seryosong bulong nito.

Ginulo naman ni Alyssa ang kaniyang buhok bago binigyan ng sinserong ngiti at isang tango.

Yumakap rin si Mosh sa akin.

"I love you ate, you deserve to be happy. Please be happy."

Halos maiyak naman ako, I didn't know that even our youngest sibling has an idea of what I have been going through.

"I am happy, Mosh. Thank you. I love you too. Now, off you go."

"Okay ate! Talk to you later!"

"Alright, young man.", sagot ni Ly sa kaniya.

I cleared my throat as I get her attention.

"So... Can we continue?",

"H-ha? Ahhh okay. So you wanna kiss me again?", she asked with a smirk in her face.

Mabilis ko namang hinampas ito sa braso.

"Baliw! No! What I meant is to continue what we were talking about. About the hospital thing? Remember?"

"Oh. That? Well... Okay.", she took a deep breath before continuing at umayos ng pagkakaupo paharap sa akin.

"Den, that night, the game went well. I was never injured and was just driving my way back to my unit when Ella accidentally dialed my number."

I was just staring at her, trying to grasp what she just said.

"You were never injured? And- and Ella, natawagan ka lang niya by accident?"

"Yes. She was frantic and...", she paused for a moment and I sensed that she's trying to stop herself from cracking so I held her hand in mine.

"Hmm? And what baby? Hey are you okay?"

She squeezed my hand and lifted it to her lips for a soft kiss.

"Yes, love. I am. Sorry. Okay so yeah, I immediately knew something's not right and although I can't see Ella's face, she sounded so distressed calling out your name and was asking for help and- and I lost it. After a few seconds I heard her talking to another person which I reckon was Doc Therese, yeah si ate Tere. I heard them talking about holding your wrist and ate Tera asked Ella to get some clothing for it."

"You heard everything?"

"Yes, but didn't understand what was happening then. Or I was denial of that thought. Hell, I felt my heart wanting to get off my chest dahil sa pag aalala. Just imagine hearing Ella so distressed. Pero..."

"Pero?"

"Pero Ella told me over the phone na nawalan ka lang ng malay dahil sa overfatigue. It surely didn't make any sense to me dahil walang koneksiyon yun sa telang hiningi ni ate Tere. I knew something terrible happened but Ella didn't allow me to go to your place. Binabaan na nga lang ako ng phone which got me even more frustrated and I even had to so harass Bea para ibigay yung address ng condo mo. She refused saying she'll lose both of us after that pero binigay niya pa rin reminding me na wala na raw tayo at hindi na dapat ako mangialam. But, I could never care less. I love you and kahit hindi ko pa man alam noon ang dahilan bakit ka umalis, I never stopped loving you Dennise.", pagpapatuloy nito habang inihahaplos ang mga kamay ko sa mukha niya.

"And then? Did you get to my place?"

"I did, only to find out na nakaalis na yung ambulance and the security gave me a hard time to even know kung saan ka dinala mabuti na lang Doc Therese was there. Sinamahan niya ako papunta sa hospital where you were brought to."

"Okay... So what happened when you came to the hospital?"

She lowered her gaze. Naka tingin lang sa may sahig while still holding my hands with hers.

"Babe.", I called out to her.

She finally lifted her head and looked straight into my eyes.

She suddenly looked so sad and worried and it got me alarmed so I held her face and gently brushed her cheek with my thumb.

"Baby? What's wrong hmm?"

She also held my hand that's on her cheek and kissed the palm of it.

She shook her head and gave me a sweet smile.

"Nothing's wrong baby. It's just that, it breaks my heart looking back at what has happened. What you've gone through. You've been so brave, Den. I'm sorry I wasn't there when you needed me but here I am now, Dennise. I won't let anything bad happen to you, I'll protect you and keep you safe. I'll make it up to you.", Alyssa said so lovingly while caressing my face.

-

She said that so lovingly that even with just her words, my heart feels so warm already as if she's embracing my whole being.

I stared blanky on my phone, still hoping her name pops up.

It has been a week now since I last heard from her.

She went home to her condo unit two days after we've spoken to my parents about the wedding being cancelled between me and LA, she said she just needs to meet her manager and settle things na naiwan niya after what happened to me dahil ayaw niyang may mag surface pang kung anong issue if her management finds out na dito siya tumutuloy ever since she's got injured.

And it has been a week now na wala pa akong maayos na tulog kakaisip kung ayos lang ba siya.

"Besh, you really have to stop worrying. Okay? May mga inaasikaso lang siguro talaga yun. Lalo na yung sa kanila ni Kiefer, remember? Nagkaproblema dun sa kabila dahil ayaw bumitaw ng mga brand na nasagutan na nila as a 'couple'. Dinadaan na yun sa legal. Maraming nakabinbin na gawain yun and I'm very sure she's trying to settle everything all at once para makabalik siya agad sa'yo."

That was Ella. She sat on a chair infront of me.

Nandito ako sa garden namin ni Ly. I have been spending most of my time here for the whole week. Hoping that any time of the day I would see her walking here towards me with her sweet and genuine smile.

"Besh, you can't even get ahold of her, can you? So tell me paano ako mags-stop mag worry? None of us can get ahold of that woman, geez. What if –", I was brutally cut off by Ella.

"HEP HEP HEP! STOP RIGHT THERE OR I'LL SLAP YOU DENNISE MICHELLE. Besh, I'm telling you she's okay. Tsk, come closer. Look.", Ella said and showed me her phone.

"Alyssa Valdez and Kiefer Ravena spotted together amidst break-up rumors.", Ella read from a social media platform of a news outlet.

"O besh don't tell me you're being jealous because of this? Wala lang yan, okay? Apat na taon. Apat na taon kong tiniis iyang ganyang kaartehan, pero kudos kay Alyssa. She'd definitely pass as an actress. You never had a clue she was just faking it all up, di ba?"

"I'm not freaking jealous, Ella! But I am worried-sick about her. I have been waiting EVERY-SINGLE-DAY, and this is where I'd get an update from? Don't you think I deserve better than that?"

"Hay nako. Don't get me wrong ha, I am super happy when I heard you two got back together again after all those shits Mr. Revilla has put you through but —"

"We're not even officially back together tapos mag-gaganito ganito siya?? Tsk! I think I might lose it kapag hindi pa siya nagparamdam for another day. Or worse I'll definitely go to her unit and just slap her myself for making me this anxious."

"Can you please let me finish my sentence bago ka sumingit at magdadadakdak?"

Inirapan ko lamang ito.

She shook her head in disbelief.

"Ayun na nga, as I was saying I am truly glad okay? Pero you should really trust Alyssa on this one. Hindi na kayo yung mga highschool or college lovebirds na mag-aaway away or magtatampuhan lang basta or mag gagawa ng scenario sa utak niyo kahit wala namang katotohanan doon. Four years, four years kayong walang komunikasyon at malayo sa isa't isa. And now that you guys are, well as you say unofficially back together, doon rin naman ang punta nun. Just wait for her, patiently. Okay?"

"Besh, I am. Okay? Pero paano kung habang nasa labas siya at malayo sa akin may mangyaring masama? Hindi pa namin nahaharap yung dad ni LA and I have not heard from him either since last time. What if alam na ng dad niya and schemed to hurt Alyssa? Gosh, no! I can't let that happen. We've both sacrificed so much already and she doesn't deserve to be hurt in any way! Ells, please. Maybe we should call nanay and tatay? Or sino ba? Yung manager niya? Just to see her whereabouts?"

"Fine, okay okay. I'll drop by her unit mamaya after training. Anyway, she's scheduled to start training with us today, 'di ba? O ayun, I'll call you once I get to the gym. Okay?"

"Uhm... Besh."

"What?"

"Can I uhm, you know."

"What? Ano ba yun Dennise?", iritang tanong nito.

"Can I tag along?"

Nanlaki naman ang mga mata nito sa tanong ko.

"Hoy Dennise Michelle, ni hindi ka pa nga nagrereport sa management niyo I mean, physically atleast, tapos makikita ka nila dun sa training ng kabila? Are you mad? Umiiwas nga tayo sa mga speculations and whatnot e. Besides, paano kapag nalaman ng dad ni LA na pumunta ka roon sa training namin?"

I pulled out my phone and showed her my calendar.

"Have you forgotten? We do train in the same building for pete's sake, Ella!"

"Oh. Right.", she said and raised a peace sign.

"Alright then, get your ass up and fix yourself up. I swear Dennise if you act all so lovely towards Ly at any point, iuuwi kita."

"Can't help it, I miss her dang much."

"I'm telling you! Don't even joke about it."

"OKAY! Napaka-OA mo kahit kailan besh! Oo na."

"Keep your hands to yourself ha. People are not used to seeing you all so close in public baka nakakalimutan mo. So please, okay? And call her 'besh' or just by her name, will you?"

"Or maybe you can just cover your eyes and ears kapag nalapitan ko si Alyssa para hindi ka na mamroblema???"

"Gosh, here we go again. Just drop it already. Magpapaalam lang ako kina tito and tita and I'll be by the car. Pakibilisan mo dahil mayayari na naman ako pagna-late ako. Ikaw patakbuhin ko dun e."

"Serves you right.", bulong ko rito bago tumayo papasok ng bahay.

"I heard you!"

Natawa nalang ako sa pahabol na sigaw ni Ella and just ignored her then nag asikaso na rin ng sarili pagkapasok ng bahay.

"Ate parang may lakad ka ah? I wouldn't say a thing kina mom and dad if you're gonna elope with ate Alyssa.", Justine said mockingly habang nakasilip sa may pinto ng room ko.

Sinamaan ko ito ng tingin, "What makes you think kailangan ko pang gawin 'yon? When I could just marry her off and live peacefully together? Duh."

She gave me a slow-clap as if she's so proud of what I just said.

"Well then, I'm sure ate Ella will be your maid of honor? Kasi if ako, sorry I can't."

"Well, si Ella naman nga pero bakit naman hindi ka pwede aber?"

"Duh, then sinong magiging maid of honor ni ate Ly?"

"Wait, what?"

"Wala. You better hurry, nagbubusina na si ate Jorella sa baba.", sabi pa nito at umalis na rin.

Maid of honor siya ni Ly? Tignan mo nga naman, as if siya ang kapatid. Tsk tsk tsk.

Anyway, tapos na rin ako rito. Makababa na nga at baka kung ano ano pang panglalait ang masabi ni Ella.

-

"Anak, hindi ka pa pwedeng maglaro, right? Bakit dala mo iyang duffle mo? Hindi ka pa naki-clear ni ate Tere mo pati ng company phycisian niyo ha."

"It's okay mom, dinala ko lang just so people won't think of anything about me going there kahit hindi pa naman ako makakapagtraining, atleast mukha pa rin akong naroon for the team's training."

"Well, aren't you?"

"No mom, she just wants to see ate Alyssa."

"Jus! Ano ka ba mamaya maniwala sila mom sa'yo eh!", inis kong sabi.

"What? Am I wrong then?"

"Den, iha."

"Mom, she hasn't sent any updates simula noong umalis siya and I don't think I could spend another day just worrying and waiting up on her. Baka mawala na ako sa sarili ko."

"Honey, Alyssa's doing just fine. She's called me and dad kanina lang. Sabi niya –"

"What?! Mom naman! Why haven't you told me a thing? Oh my gosh."

"Lady, stop shouting at me. Besides, we just got off of the phone with her pagkababa mo, 'di ba dad?"

"Yes.", dad answered mom.

"Pero mom, you should have called me."

"I tried sweetie, Alyssa said she can't be on the phone for too long kaya she has to hang up."

"Ni hindi man lang ba niya ako hinanap? Like what on earth was she thinking?!"

"Easy, busy lang talaga siya. She just called to let us know na she is okay."

"And without even talking to me? Wow! She's got the nerve."

Napailing na lang si mom at natawa naman si dad from the living room.

"Nakakainis naman siya mom eh! I have been so worried about her tapos ni hindi man lang ako kausapin even for a minute???"

"Just go anak, let her explain herself to you. I cannot speak on her behalf, you know."

"Tsk. Sige na mom, aalis muna po kami ni besh. Dad! I'll make sure to give an earful dun sa paborito mo!"

"You're the boss!", dad said while laughing.

Si mom naman naiiling nalang while giving me a hug.

"Ingat kayo ni Ella ha. Just update me and dad."

"You got it, mom. See you."

-

"Wow ang tagal mag asikaso grabe, tinatawagan na ako nila coach.", pagrereklamo ni Jorella nang makasakay ako ng kotse niya.

"Sorry na, go mag drive ka na diyan."

"Hays kasalanan ito ni Alyssa eh. Yari sa akin yun pag nakita ko."

"Tama iyan, pero ako muna gugulpi doon.", sagot ko rito and we both shared a laugh.

"Let's go?"

"Okay."

-

"Ate Denniseeeee!", sigaw ni Julia pagkakita sa akin at yumakap.

"Hey, kid.", I hugged her back.

"We've missed you, are you here to train na?"

"No, silly. Mag a-attend lang ako ng meeting then observe sa play."

"Oh okay. Pero bakit nandito ka ate? I mean nasa annex building sila today ah?"

"Ah eh ano kasi."

"Kasi ano, nagpasama ako kay besh. Mamaya pa kasi start nila. Saka sabi ko naman wag siyang mag spy sa play natin eh."

Tumawa naman si Julia.

"Well, this works for me dahil na-miss kita ate. Upo ka na muna dito ah. Coach is about to give his punishment to ate Ella, alam mo naman. Laging late."

"Julia ngayon lang ako na-late ulit dahil ang bagal ng ate Dennise mo."

"Hi ate Den!", that was Jema.

I gave a knowing look kay Ella at inirapan lang ako nito.

"Hi Denden! How are you? Babalik ka na ba?", si Mich.

"Hi Mich, nope. Mga hmm I take one week pa."

"Wow naku mahihirapan na naman kami nito against your team haha but anyway we missed seeing you."

"I missed you guys too."

"Oh, Denden bakit nandito ka? Wag kang mag-spy rito ha. Jorella Marie, do 10 rounds bago ka mag-join. Bilisan mo.", coach She.

"Hi coach. Sinamahan ko lang po si Ella, later papasama rin kasi ako sa annex."

"I see. Good to see you, Denden. O siya diyan ka muna. Girls, start your drill. Michelle ikaw na muna ang mag lead."

Nagkatinginan naman kami ni Ella.

"Uhm, coach. Wala pa ba si Ly?", tanong ni Ella.

"I'm not sure kung makakapunta iyon. Pero ikaw, I'm so sure pinatakbo na kita kanina pa."

"Ay hehe sige po coach. Den, stay put. Okay?"

"Where else am I gonna go?", inirapan ko naman itong muli at umupo na sa may bench.

Tumakbo naman na si Ella as instructed while her other teammates started their drill.

Hindi naman mapakali ang mga mata ko at palinga linga. Hoping the reason I went here for, would show up.

After an hour, wala pa ring Alyssa na dumating.

Sa sobrang occupied ko, nagulat ako nang may magsalita sa tabi ko.

"Wala pa si ate Ly. Baka hindi pa makapunta iyon."

Bumilis ang tibok ng puso ko. Halata ba ako? Teka, wala namang nakakaalam about sa amin ni Ly bukod kay Ella ah.

"Ha?", tanong ko kay Julia.

"Ah hindi. Akala ko kasi hinihintay mo si ate Ly. Kanina ka pa kasi hindi mapakali."

"N-no. Why would I wait for your ate Alyssa? I'm, I-I'm with your ate Ells."

Nagkibit balikat naman itong katabi ko at pumunta sa kumpulan ng mga teammates niya.

Napailing na lamang ako sa nangyari. Ang weird pero kinabahan ako kahit hindi naman dapat.

Baby, come on. Where are you?

And just like that, it was as if she heard me calling out to her.

"Hi coach! Hi guys! Sorry for running in late.", masayang bati ni Alyssa sa mga teammates at coach niya.

"Ate Ly!", "Alyssa!", "Valdezzzz!"

Sabay sabay na hiyaw ng mga ka-team nila ni Ella at niyakap siya ng mga ito.

"Here, here. Magmeryenda muna kayo.", sabi nitong muli.

Hind ko pa siya nililingon, naririnig ko lang ang mga boses nila.

Sobrang mixed emotions. I wanted to be mad at her for not reaching out to me, but at the same time I feel so relieved to hear her voice after a week and know that she's actually okay.

I also wanted to kiss her and hug her so tight.

"Alright guys, I'll prepare myself so enjoy muna kayo diyan. Coach, I'll do 15 rounds."

"Good. Sige na girls, I'll give you 30 minutes and we'll hit the court."

"Thanks coach.", rinig kong sagot nito kay coach Sherwin.

"Thank you coach! Thank you ate Ly!", sigaw ng mga batang teammates nito.

I heard footsteps heading towards here.

"Dennise?", I heard her calling out to me as she stand in front of me.

I lifted my head and saw the person I have been waiting for.

She's wearing her usual team shirt and training shorts and a white cap but she looks so stunning to me.

But instead of showing my true emotions I lifted a brow.

"H-hey. What are you doing here?", tanong muli nito at akmang yayakap pero mabilis akong umiwas.

"Why? I'm not here for you. I went with Ella dahil may meeting rin kami mamaya with the team. You better start doing your rounds."

"Are you mad at me?"

I scoffed at her.

"You dare ask?", inis kong tanong.

Kanina lang ay gustong gusto ko siyang yakapin at pupugin ng halik pero thinking about it now, how anxious she's made me dahil sa hindi pag update ng buong linggo, gusto ko na lang siyang awayin nang awayin.

She bit her lower lip before answering.

"I'll explain later, okay?"

"Whatever. Get your head on the training."

"You got it, boss.", sabay ngumit nang pagkatamis-tamis.

Boss, hmm. Parehas na parehas talaga sila ni dad.

"Sige na."

"You'll watch me, right? I mean I know you went here with besh, but you know. You can always cheer for me.", sabi nito sabay kumindat.

"I got my eye on you, Valdez."

"Hmm. I like that. O siya, magmeryenda ka muna roon. I'll get going baka mapagalitan na ako eh."

Tinanguan ko lamang ito.

"Hey.", pagkuha niyang muli ng atensyon ko.

"What?", suplada kong tugon.

"I love you and I've missed you.", mahina niyang sabi but just enough for me to hear.

But instead na ilabas ang kilig ko dahil naiinis pa nga ako rito inirapan ko lamang siya at tumalikod na.

And when I was about to head kina Ella, I saw her at si Julia na nakatingin sa akin habang nakangiti na tila nang aasar.

"What are you two looking at?", mataray kong tanong as I approach the group.

"Ate kain ka na.", "Den come on, masarap itong dala ni Alyssa oh.", pag anyaya ng iba nilang kasama.

"Oh, yeah thank you.", sagot ko sa mga ito.

"Ang taray. May pa-moment.", bulong ni Ella sa akin.

"Na-miss ko kayong makitang magkasa ate.", sabi ni Julia.

"Why? Nagkakasama naman kami niyang ate Ly mo ah?"

"But not too often like before. Right?"

"Yeah, siyempre we're not on the same team anymore. Ikaw talaga."

"Oo nga naman Julia, ikaw talaga.", pag uulit pa ni Ella.

"Eh bakit ikaw ate? Hindi naman kayo teammates anymore pero lagi pa rin kayong magkasama? Hmm. Anyway bahala na kayo at matatanda na kayo. I'm just glad to see you smiling again, ate Dennise. Kumain ka na muna diyan ha, ate Ells bilisan mo. Mapapasama ka pa kay captain niyan eh."

Napakunot naman ang noo ko. Nawi-weirdan na ako sa mga banat ni Julia sa akin eh. May alam ba siya sa amin ni Ly? I totally doubt it.

Bukod sa team besh at family namin, wala na kaming ibang pinagsabihan noon.

Oh well, Fab 5 definitely knows about it. But Julia? Nope. Not that I can recall.

"Besh, what's up with Julia? Alam ba niya?"

"What?? Nope. I mean, not unless you've been so obvious noong kayo pa ni Ly sa college which for me I'd say sobrang OBVIOUS niyo for sure."

"Tss. Just stuff your mouth with that food and get lost, Ella."

"You're so mean Dennise, anyway nandiyan na ulit yung lover mo. Byeeeeee!", mahinang pang aasar nito bago pumunta sa mga kasama nila.

"Hey. Did you like the food? Take a rest and watch me closely okay?", sabi nito while tying her hair in a bun.

She looks so hot, my goodness.

"Den?"

I was taken aback when she called out to me again.

"Y-yeah. It's good, really good actually."

Natawa naman ito nang bahagya.

"What?"

"Nothing. I just thought you haven't even tasted it yet. I'm wondering what tastes really good for you right now.", sabi nito while pointing at the food I'm holding in my hand that's still wrapped carefully.

Dang it. Nakakahiya!

I feel my cheeks heating up kaya to hide my embarrasment, tinarayan ko nalang ito.

"Can you just get lost already?"

"Hmm. Alright. I'll be back in a bit, okay?"

"Whatever."

I still heard her chuckling pagkatalikod nito at nag simula na mag warm up.

After about 25 minutes, I heard my phone ringing.

"Yes coach. Uh-huh. Yes, nandito ako kina Ella. Oh? Meeting's postponed? No problem. Yeah, I'll be there next time. Okay. Opo, I'll get clearance this week. Thank you, coach! Okay. Bye."

Oh boy, so they've postponed the meeting na dapat an hour to go na lang.

Tsk. Anyway, I'll just wait for Ella and Alyssa.

I watch Alyssa from afar hitting the court like she's on fire.

Sobrang hot niya.

What?! Tsk. Dennise! Wag mong pagnasaan.

But she's so irresistable. I've never seen her training this close for a quite a while, she's still crazy good at this.

"You're drooling again."

"Shit. Besh naman, bigla bigla ka talagang sumusulpot eh, 'no? Saka drooling mo mukha mo. Anyway, meeting's got cancelled."

"Sus, if I don't know any better, mas gusto mong ma-cancel yun para makasama si Ly."

"Besh, bunganga mo naman eh. Mamaya may makarinig sa'yo!"

"Sinong makakarinig eh naroon silang lahat?"

"Except for you and me, I guess?", nagulat naman ako sa nagsalita from my side.

"Wala na ba kayong ibang alam gawin kung hindi ang gulatin ako? Bumalik na kayo roon at mapapagalitan kayo."

"Oh tara na raw, Ly."

"You go ahead. We're almost done for the day na rin naman so I'll be here. They're just wrapping up."

"Then you must be really there and not here."

"I already did the talk, babe. Sila ang assign mag ligpit today. Let me just catch my breath here with you, okay?"

I just stayed silent as she scoots closer to me.

"Babe."

"Yes, besh?"

"Oops hehe. Is it okay if you come over to my place?"

I almost smiled at her invite, but no. I can't give in that easy.

"Why?"

"I've missed you and I just wanted to spend some time with you, alone."

"I thought you don't want to stir things up? Kaya nga hindi mo man lang ako makamusta or ma-update, 'di ba?"

"I want to explain myself when we're alone, babe. Kaya please, come with me sa unit ko."

"How about Ells? Is she coming with us?"

"What? No, of course not. I already talked to besh. She understands but reminded me to call your parents to let them know."

"Yeah, sila lang naman ang alam mong tawagan. Why did Ella even bother to tell you that?", naiiling kong sabi rito.

"Eh baby naman. I'll make it up to you, okay? Sige na. Wait for me, I'll be all yours in a bit.", she then gave me another winked before heading back with her teammates.

Hay nako. She doesn't even know that she's already forgiven when I heard her voice again earlier this morning.

She's adorable. And I can't wait to be spending time with her, alone.

-

"Bye ates!"

"Bye girls! I'll see you all by Monday!"

"Bye Ly, Ella and Den. Nice seeing you again. Come visit us often.", Mich said.

"So long as I won't be seen as a spy, I'd come visit you girls.", pabiro kong sabi at nagtawanan naman sila.

After makipagyakapan at beso sa mga ka-team nila ni Ella, I was left with Alyssa, Ella, Jessica and Julia.

"Wow, akala ko hanggang third wheeling lang ako, pang fifth wheel na rin pala.", natatawang hirit ni Julia.

"Shut up.", sabi ni Ella rito.

Hmm, sabi ko na nga ba may something sila ni Jessica. Ayaw pang umamin.

"Paano, ate Ly? I won't hold you guys up longer. I know ate Dennise, misses you so much na hindi na nakatiis at siya na ang sumundo sa iyo."

Tinignan ko lamang ito nang may pagtataka.

"Hay nako si ate Dennise talaga. Ikaw na bahala mag explain diyan ate Ly. Nakakatampo, she can't recall anything. I love you ate Dennise, I'll drop by your house this weekend okay? I mean sasama ako kina ate Ella. Mag bonding naman tayo. Okay? Sige na, I'll get going. You all take care.", sabi nito then yumakap at nagbeso na sa bawat isa.

"Ly, ikaw na bahala rito ha. Una na rin kami ni Jessica.", sabi ni Ella while pointing at me.

"Oh yeah of course. Ells ingatan mo iyan ha! Naku mayayari ka kay Mafe!", natatawang sabi naman niya kay Ella.

"Bye ate Den, bye ate Ly! Take care!", paalam ni Jessica sa amin ni Alyssa.

"Take care guys. Jema, pingutin mo nang malakas kung kailangan.", sabi ko rito.

"Oo ate, takot naman eh."

Natawa naman kami sa sinabi ni Jessica at tuluyan na silang umalis. Kumaway rin sa amin si Mafe na kanina pang naghihintay sa sasakyan ni Ella.

So kami nalang ni Alyssa ang nasa garahe ngayon.

"Babe? Let's go?", tawag nito sa akin at pinagbuksan ako ng pinto.

-

"Hi mom? Yes, nandiyan po ba si dad?", kausap ni Alyssa sina mom ngayon. Hindi pa rin kami nakakaalis dahil she said she wants to ask them first.

"Yeah, no. Tomorrow? Yes? Great! Thank you guys so much, of course mom. We'll be careful. Dad! Don't say that in front of mom, baka maniwala!"

Tinaasan ko siya ng kilay.

Umiling lamang ito.

"Dad, oh my gosh, Imma hang up now guys, you're unbelievable! Bye! Love you! Say my love for Mosh and ate for me please! Yeah yeah, bye!"

"Sorry hon, grabe. Si dad talaga oh."

"Why? Anong sinabi ni dad?"

"Ha? Eh, wala wala."

"Alyssa."

"Gosh, you're scary. Wala sabi lang ni dad, "make sure you make up for the lost years, anak"."

"What?! Oh my goodness, I can't believe him!"

"That's what I said, right?"

"He must love you so much para ipamigay ang anak niya nang ganon ganon lang. Pambihira!"

Natawa naman ito.

"Relax baby, dad means no harm. Besides, babawi naman talaga ako sa iyo kahit hindi sabihin ni dad."

"How about you give me a hug and a proper kiss to start with?", sabi ko rito.

What? I missed her. No doubt.

I saw her smiling like crazy bago inilapit ang mukha niya sa akin.

"Of course, love. I've been wanting to do that the moment I saw you kanina."

Inirapan ko siya at hinila palapit sa akin.

I wrapped my arms around her nape and kissed her so intently.

I heard myself letting out a soft moan. And this made Alyssa smile even more so she deepened the kiss.

Damn. Good thing her car has been tinted up real good.

When I feel something's building up my stomach, I knew I had to stop her.

"Baby, you don't want our first make out after four years to be in your car, do you?"

"I would.. take... you... uhm anywhere I possibly could babe.", she said in between kisses.

Tinulak ko naman nang dahan dahan ang mukha nito palayo. We're both gasping for air when we parted.

Nagkatinginan kami and shared a good laugh.

"I've missed you baby.", she said while giving me a forehead kiss.

"Yeah right."

"Oh no. I won't ruin the mood baby, I'll drive us home first."

"Good.", then I kissed her on the cheek before going back to my seat.

"What? You go ahead and drive.", sabi ko rito when I saw her still looking at me with her genuine smile.

"Yeah, of course."

-

"Wow, you've got yourself a great unit babe. I'm so proud of you.", sabi ko rito pagkabukas niya ng pinto.

"Hmm, well, I was thinking of moving in here, with you. Malapit kasi ito dun sa possible na pasukan mo sana noon kapag nag intern ka na as a med student."

I whipped my head in her direction.

"Yeah, noong tayo pa, I mean bago tayo naghiwalay. I have been looking for units to buy and considering all those stuff, ito yung pinaka-convenient sa atin parehas."

I pulled her in for a hug.

"You really have thought this through huh?"

"Of course. With you in my mind and heart."

I tiptoed to kiss her in her lips.

"That's for saying the right words."

"Hmm. So, welcome home baby."

"Thank you, so this is home, huh?"

"Now that you're here. Yes. I mean kung nasaan ka man, that's where home is."

"You're being cheesy babe."

"Because I intend to be, hon. Halika, let me make us something to eat pero go ahead and wash yourself up. Just straight up right there and on your left should be the shower."

"Okay. Thank you."

"Anything for you, love. I'll prepare somethin for us, and baby if you can give mom and nanay a call. I'm sure nanay would be thrilled to receive a call from you."

"Of course, I'll call them after."

Tumango ito at ngumiti.

I also went to take a warm bath.

-

"Hey mom."

"Anak! Hey, are you guys home?", mom asked.

"Did you guys arrived just fine?", dad also asked.

"Yes, yes. We're fine mom, dad. How are you guys there? Where are the kids?"

"Naku nasa mga kwarto nila. Kumain na kayo diyan ha. Where's Alyssa?"

"I'll go get her. She's in the kitchen."

"Hey baby, your mom and dad are looking for you.", sarkastiko kong biro sa mga ito.

"Oh really? Hi parents!", bati ni Ly sa kanila.

"Baby, will you just hold it for me please?"

"Sure sure."

"Hey buddy, so? How's everything going on huh? Nagulpi ka na ba ni Dennise? Ilang araw mong hindi pinatulog pati kami nadadamay sa pagiging dragon niyan.", tanong ni dad sa paborito niyang anak.

"Come on, dad. Why would Den do that? She loves me so much. Right, babe?"

"We haven't talked about the issue, Ly. Baka samain ka sa akin if we're gonna talk about it right now.", warning ko rito.

"Ooooh! Slayed!", "She's so under, I can't believe her!", "Yari!"

Samut-saring reaksiyon ng mga kapatid ko at ni dad while laughing.

"Kayo talaga, wala kayong bilib sa akin. Pero sige na guys I'll make the table for us, we'll be calling nanay too."

"Spend the night well, Alyssa ha. If you know what I mean!", pahabol ni dad at hinampas pa ito ni mom.

"Guys, sige na. We'll be eating dinner too. Call your nanay already para hindi na sila mapuyat roon kakahintay. And, Alyssa, don't listen to dad ha. Kayo talagang mag daddy oh. Bye, love you girls!"

"Bye guys! We love you!", sabi namin ni Ly and ended the call.

Pangiti ngiti naman itong isa.

"So spend the night well? Aren't you bringing me home with my parents?"

"Nope, naipagpaalam na kita."

"And hindi mo na naman ako sinabihan?"

"Hey baby, I'm sorry okay? I really wanted to make it up with you kaya ipinagpaalam kita. I don't mean to disrespect you or anything. Okay?"

I took a deep breath.

"Okay. We need to call nanay and tatay."

"Oh yeah. Go on, babe. I'll make the table for us."

So I did another video call to her parents.

"Hi nay! Hi tay! How are you guys? I've missed you!"

"Anak!", "Ineng, Dennise!"

Masayang bungad naman rin ng kaniyang mga magulang.

"Kamusta kayo diyan nay, tay?"

"Aba eh ayos lamang kami rito. Kayo ba anak? Ngayon lamang kayo napatawag ah. Busy na ba ulit?", nanay asked.

"Well, kakatapos lang po ng training nung isa. And ako naman po eh nacancel yung meeting namin dapat earlier."

"Eh nasaan ka ngayon? Si ineng nasaan?", that was tatay.

I was hesistant to answer him. Well, we really haven't told them about us.

"Tay! I'm here! Babe, turn the camera here please."

Pinanlakihan ko ito ng mata.

"What? Oh, sorry. Hehe."

"Oh anak, nasa condo mo pala kayo eh? Ay siya ipagluto mo si ineng ha. Wag kayong panay buy out."

"Yes nay. Look, I already made us dinner. We're just checking up on you guys and I reckon wala pa ang mga kuya at si bunso dahil ang tahimik pa diyan."

"Oo eh nagpunta ng plaza at manonood raw ng liga. Are ngang iyong ama e susunod pa sa mga kuya. Kaya siya ineng, magsikain na kayo riyan ha. We'll see you when we get there sa Manila."

"Bye mga anak. Mag ingat. Ingatan ang isa't isa."

"Ay siya ang tatay talaga. Sige na mga ineng. Mahal namin kayo!"

"Bye nay! Bye tay! Take care ha gabi na po. Please tell mga kuya and bunso that we miss them. We love you!", paalam ko sa mga ito.

Then we ended the call.

Alyssa looks at me with a huge huge smile plastered on her face.

"You look like ewan baby."

"Because my heart couldn't contain the happiness I am feeling right now. Is this even real? Please I pray that it is real because I cannot lose you again."

I saw a lot of things in her eyes, kanina lang ay masayang masaya ito then suddenly her eyes tell me she's sad and terrified.

My heart sank.

I walked towards her and let her hands be on my waist.

I cupped her face and kissed her passionately.

I wanted to remove any fear that she's feeling right now, although even I, myself feels so scared of what might happen next.

But I got her now, that's all that I need.

I slowly pulled away from her and gave her just another quick and sweet peck on her lips.

"Is that real enough for you, hmm?"

"Yeah, that would do it.", pang aasar naman nito at bumalik nang muli ang kinang sa kaniyang mga mata.

Instead na tarayan dahil hindi pa nga kami okay, I just smiled at her.

Who can resist that sweet smile? Right?

"Ikaw talaga, so what do we have here babe?"

"Oh right, take a seat first mahal.", malambing na sabi nito as she guided me to sit.

And her calling me 'mahal', damn I'm gonna lose my mind.

"I cooked your favorites, pasta of course and mawawala ba naman ang steak? Medium rare, just like how you wanted it. I've been working on those for quite a while now with mom and nanay. So, you should love it, babe. That's their combined recipe, not unless I really suck at this.", natatawang pagpapaliwanag nito.

"Word."

"Sorry, hon. Go on, try mo na."

"For the record, I love whatever you offer me, baby. And thak you for this. So okay, you ready? Let's take this into test.", natatawa kong sabi sa kaniya.

She gritted her teeth, she also does this when she feels nervous about something.

Wow, she's done this really good.

"Babe? How was it?"

"How honest do you want me to give it a review, chef?"

"With all honesty, love. I mean, madame."

"Hmm. Let's just say, it makes me wanna give you a night to remember. It's that good, chef.", I said seductively.

"Tell me you mean that."

"I do, but we don't want this to go to waste hon. It tastes really great. Kaya maupo ka na and I am starving. You can just get your dessert once we're done here.", then I winked at her.

"I'd cook your food from this day onwards if this is how my cooking does to you."

Natawa naman kami parehas.

And we spent the dinner just enjoying each other's presence.

Napagusapan na rin namin yung hindi niya pag contact sa akin. She said it was too stressful and she does not want it to resonate on me.

Though she still received an earful after naming kumain, naiintindihan at naappreciate ko iyon. But I also told her that it should be 'us', through good or bad times.

She said she would let me know next time and won't do that again.

Everything went well with dinner.

And ngayon, we're just lying lazily, all cuddled up sa couch niya.

"This feels nice. I love this couch you have."

"Yeah? Of course I had to get the things you've told me about before. I mean you know, with the interior, furnitures and all that. Take a look around – this looks exactly how you imagined our first house, or unit as a couple would be, right? It keeps me sane but also wrecked while you were away, it feels like you're with me when I amn here although you're really not."

I was just looking at her habang sinasabi niya ang mga iyon and tinignan ko rin ang paligid. Tama siya.

I did not noticed that kanina pero looking at it now, everything I hoped our first house together would be eh talagang ginawa niya rito. Even the dining table, I told her noon na I don't want things that has corners on it – so she bought a round one. This couch, I told her to get something that's big enough for the two of us when we cuddle or when our families and friends come over, we can be on the same area na makakaupo ang bawat isa. She really did. The interior design just speaks for what I wanted before.

This melts my heart.

"And you've been living here for the past four years, alone? Why didn't you have it changed baby? It must be so lonely going home in here everyday kung kahit saan maaalala mo lang lalo na wala ako sa tabi mo?"

"Yeah there's that hon, pero sabi ko nga getting home to this kept me sane.  But hey, you're here now so let's not dwell too much of the past shall we?"

"Hmm, right. And I will be here for as long as you want me to."

"If I ask you to move in here with me, will you?"

"You're too fast, we're not even together yet!", sabay mahina ko siyang hinampas sa chest niya.

"I'm just kidding! Ito naman. But just out of curiousity, will you?"

I gave her a nod.

She pumped her fist in the air as if she's scored with her attack.

"Yes! I will wait patiently for that day to come, Dennise."

"I know."

Then we just hugged each other until our bodies molded into one sa couch niya and we both had smiles on our faces as we drifted off to sleep.

In each's arms.

-

Author's note:

Please, patawarin niyo na ako 🥺😆 Sobrang busy lang. Pambihirang adult life ito ✊🏻💔

Anyways, I have also been busy posting some videos for Alyden sa Tiktok 🙈 HAHAHAHA that's why. Eme!

Follow niyo naman oh 🤷🏻

Tiktok: ALYDEN 💛🍋

I also saw a page/account like initiated specifically for Den 🥺 Let's go! Follow niyo na sila, wait copy ko lang HAHAHAHA.

Tiktok link: tiktok.com/@withdenniselazaro

Oh eto, na-copy ko na.

With Dennise. ang name nila 🥺🥺🥺 I hope we all can give that fandom a chance because Dennise deserves that attention from us all 🙌🏻

See you next chapter, huwag na mainip. Pasensya na ha. Adult-hings kasi tayo right now 🥺✊🏻

Shout out to my readers, kahit iilan man kayo, salamat! 🫂