Dancing With Fire (Published Under Flutter Fic)
Wakas
And we're done with Lost Island Series #4!
Maraming-maraming salamat sa pagmamahal n'yo sa characters ko! Sa Mikmik boys, kina Daddy Rai at Sera. This isn't possible without your support.
Mahal ko kayo, Archers! Nakatapos nanaman ako ng istorya kasama kayo.
See you soon, Lucian!
This is for you. This is Dancing With Fire's epilogue. *punas luha*
xxx
Wakas
Dancing With Fire
"HOW ARE YOU handling it?" My eyes shifted to Wave. I shook my head.
"I have to find a lead," I answered.
"May nakuha ka na ba kahit papaano?" Caspian asked while sipping his wine.
"I met a woman," I said, and their gazes immediately turned to me.
"Kakamatay lang ng fiancée mo, tapos may babae ka na agad?" Lucian exclaimed.
"Fuck you," I cursed. "Wala akong babae. And Akisha isn't my fiancée. I never agreed to my mother's plans."
"Sa tingin mo, sino ang may gawa nito sa kanya?"
I shrugged, staring blankly at the wineglass.
"Hindi kaya ang mga Tan?" ani Warrion kaya nilingon ko siya.
"How can you say that?" I asked.
"I don't mean to accuse anyone, I'm just guessing. Alice Tan is obsessed with you, Vioxx. Noon pa. Remember the party years ago? That woman is something else. Noong in-announce na ipapakasal ka kay Akisha, nagwala siya. Nagpa-press conference pa at sigurado 'ko, siya ang nagkalat ng mga issue."
I sighed and nodded, remembering what happened that night at the party.
"That makes sense," Lucian commented. "Pero hindi rin. Ganyan ka ba ka-gwapo para magpatayan sila para sa 'yo?"
I glared at Lucian. My idiotic cousins laughed. I just shook my head.
"Fuck you, Castanier. Yes, I am fucking handsome, but that's too much. I don't think someone would go that far out of envy and jealousy," I said, my forehead creasing.
"Too much, but not impossible, Vioxx," Cas replied. "Don't forget what those people—Cheska—did to my Reev. It's possible."
I stared at him, sighed, remembering what happened to Polaris.
"I'll add her to my list," I said, then glanced at Warrion. "Could you help me check the CCTVs around the area?"
"Sure." He nodded. "What else can I do? How about that witness?"
"I'll take care of the witness," I said. "Babalitaan ko kayo kung anong sasabihin niya. Get me someone, another one to check on her—someone from your team for her safety. Tinanggihan niya iyong malaki ang katawan na nauna, natatakot daw siya."
"I've got one in mind," Warrion said. "You know Lando? Retired army, part of my team. He works undercover."
"Yes, that would do." I nodded. "I need protection for that woman. She has family. I can't risk it."
"Alright, name?"
"Serafine Veronica Mendez," I answered.
"Pretty name, huh? Maganda?" Caspian teased. Tumaas ang kilay ko.
"That's my business, Alcantara."
He laughed, raising his hand as if surrendering.
"I was just asking! Bakit apektado ka? Maganda, ano?"
"No..." I cleared my throat.
"Weh?" Lucian smirked.
"She's my business. Don't be too curious," I said irritably, frowning.
They laughed. I frowned deeper, staring at the wineglass, remembering the woman from earlier.
Serafine... well, she's beautiful, but that's for my eyes only.
"Tangina, maganda nga!" My eyes immediately shifted to my annoying cousins. I frowned when I saw them peeking at Caspian's phone, laughing.
"What the hell are you doing?"
"Akala ko ba hindi maganda?" Lucian smirked. "Rich kid pa ata—"
I stood up, quickly snatched Caspian's phone, and frowned when I saw Serafine Mendez's profile on Facebook. Naka-private ang account pero may naka-public na post.
"Why are you searching her?" I scowled, swiping through Alcantara's profile.
"Curious lang. Wala ka namang pakialam dati, pero ngayon ayaw mong sabihin kung maganda o—"
"Don't fucking add her," I groaned, pulling out my phone and installing Facebook.
"Ano'ng ginagawa mo?" Sumilip si Lucian pero hinablot ko patalikod ang phone. "Shit, nag-i-install!"
Humagalpak sila. I ignored them and waited for the application to finish installing.
"Hoy, cellphone ko!" Cas exclaimed, trying to grab his phone back. Before returning it, I blocked Serafine's profile so he couldn't see it.
He snatched it back, pressed the search box again, and frowned.
"Arte! Che-check lang!" he hissed, sulking. "Crush mo, ano?!"
I looked away, silently creating an account.
"Kala mo aagawin, arte-arte. May Reev ako!" Caspian hissed. I raised a brow and glanced at him.
"Then visit your Reev. Tapos na ang duty no'n, ah? Serafine is my business."
"Mga thirty minutes pa ang out no'n," Caspian muttered, glaring. "Bakit alam mo anong oras ng out ng Reev ko?!"
I laughed, shook my head, scoffed, and showed him my middle finger.
˚ˋঌ˖˚ˋঌ˖˚ˋঌ˖
"ENGINEER, SORRY, TINAKASAN ako ni Ma'am Sera." Lando's voice filled my ear.
"What?" Napatayo ako, natigilan lang nang mapansing nasa akin ang atensyon ang board members.
"What's the matter, Engineer Miranda?" someone asked.
"Nothing." I cleared my throat. "Continue. Excuse me first."
I caught Alice Tan's curious gaze, watching me take the call.
"I'll meet a client urgently," I said instead.
I left them, irritation rising as Lando explained that Serafine left without him knowing.
"Pupunta siya sa birthday ng kaibigan," he said.
I stormed into my office and stopped when I saw my annoying cousins inside.
"What the hell are you doing here?" I asked.
"Maniningil," Lucian said, showing me his notebook.
I scoffed.
"Tell me where she is," I told Lando, then ended the call. I sat irritably on my swivel chair, rubbing my forehead.
She's nowhere to be found these days! We talk for a bit, then she disappears, and now she's avoiding me again?
"Nakabusangot 'yan?" Warrion asked his brother. Nangunot ang noo ko nang makita kong may bitbit siyang pusa, nakalagay sa hita at pinaglalaruan ang damit niya.
"Don't know." He shrugged, glancing at me.
"Baka sa babae," Lucian said. Nagulat ako nang tumayo siya at naglapag ng pakete sa harapan ko.
Maiinis na sana ako, pero nang makita kong mikmik ang nilapag niya, ay umayos ako. I took it, opened the pack frustratedly, grabbed the straw, and took a sip.
"Oh!" Lucian walked around, handing everyone their share. Wave smirked when he got his, glancing at him.
"Libre?"
"Of course not! Utang n'yo nga hindi n'yo mabayaran, manlilibre pa ako? Ambagan tayo d'yan!" he hissed.
"I should be exempted." My forehead creased. "Nilibre ko kayo no'ng nakaraan ng isang pakete, ah?"
"At bakit? Aber? 'Yong utang mo nga sixty point fifty pa!"
"Babayaran ko next week!" I hissed. "Sixty pesos lang—"
"May fifty centavos!" He snapped. "May interes na 'to next week, Miranda!"
I scoffed. Nang umilaw ang phone ko ay agad kong sinilip 'yon at sumimangot nang makitang sa bar iyon. Kasama ni Serafine ang mga kaibigan niya para sa birthday.
"Help me," I said, standing.
"Bakit? Saan?" Wave asked.
"Help me gatecrash a party," I said, and they all stood, grinning at me.
"'Yan gusto ko! May handaan ba?" Ngising-ngisi pa ang patay gutom na Caspian.
Lando never mentioned it was a private party! Halos batukan ko siya sa galit habang nakasimangot ako dahil hindi kami makapasok.
"Shit, I think we have a way," Lucian said.
"How?"
"Look, sa kabilang kwarto, may mga lalaki." My forehead creased.
"Ano'ng gagawin ko sa mga lalaki? Pagsasapakin ko ba?" I grunted.
"Hindi!" He exclaimed. "Mga macho dancer!"
"And?" My forehead creased deeper.
"Why don't you be one of the dancers instead?" He grinned.
"No fucking way," I hissed.
"Yes way," he said. "Right, Cas?"
Ngumisi si Caspian at nauna nang gumiling doon. Nanakit ang sentido ko at nagsisi na sa kanila pa 'ko humingi ng tulong!
"Just join them, back-up kami," Warrion said, like it was the easiest thing!
"Fuck you, no fucking way." My forehead creased, annoyed at their suggestion.
"Oh, I just saw your Serafine with a boy." Mas nairita ako sa sinabi ni Wave.
"What?"
"She's with a man. Bahala ka. We can just wait for her after the party—"
"How to be a fucking dancer?" I asked, cocking my head and glancing at Caspian, who was grinning widely.
"Yeah, baby! Learn from the expert!" he exclaimed as he wiggled his body like an idiot. I sighed; there was no choice but to follow his moves.
"Move your hips! Tigas ng katawan mo, bato ka ba?" he instructed.
With a heavy heart, I fucking moved my hips like a macho dancer.
I can't believe I'm doing this for Serafine. Damn, woman, you got me good, huh?
I don't know, but she really got me. Hindi ko alam kung ilang oras na akong tulala sa hangin at sa kisame ng kwarto ko kakaisip sa kanya.
It hurts me to see her bruises. It hurts me seeing her cry.
I don't even know how quickly I became fascinated with her. No'ng una, naisip kong attracted lang ako sa kanya physically. She's gorgeous, and she has this magnet that draws you close without even realizing it.
She was like fire—bright, beautiful, and impossible to ignore. Alluring, dangerous, tempting; I knew I might get burned if I drew too close, but I didn't care. I don't care if I'd turn to ashes if it meant I could touch her.
After all this, kaya ko bang wala si Serafine? She's the brat I won't mind spoiling. She was a tease for even teasing me like I was some kind of sugar daddy.
She was a brave woman, and I know she can handle herself just fine but why do I become so overly protective when it comes to her? Why do I want to be there for her? Why do I want her to show me her weak side? Why do I want to be the one to hold her when she is breaking?
Why do I find her precious? A treasure I should protect before someone steals her away from me.
She's Serafine. My brat. The fire that keeps me warm and burning. My baby.
"It was Serafine Mendez's father!" Alice paced back and forth in front of me, pilit na ipinapamukha ang nalaman.
I knew it, but I remained silent.
"Vioxx!"
Impatient, I lifted my head, gazing at her. "I know, Engineer Tan. I'm looking into it."
"Kahit ako na!" she exclaimed, frustrated. "Ako ang magpapaimbestiga sa tatay niya! What's taking you so long, huh? You should catch him and make him confess! Siya ang mastermind!"
"You still don't have proof, Engineer Tan. Seeing him on a CCTV isn't enough—"
"Then, how? They lack evidence, but we have to find the culprit! Right now!" she shouted.
Annoyed, I gazed at her, a slow smirk appearing on my lips.
"Why are you stressing over Akisha's case, Engineer Tan? As far as I know, she's related only to my family. She's a family friend. Walang kinalaman ang mga Tan sa kanila." It caught her off guard. Napalitan ang ekspresyon niya pero mas dumilim ang tingin "Tell me, why are you so concerned about the case?"
She shut up. She inhaled sharply and looked away.
"Because... because her case is stalling our wedding!"
"I never agreed to wed with you," I drawled. "Neither with her. I was just helping solve the case."
Her forehead creased more, enraged.
"Papakasalan mo ako! That's what your mother told you! For the company!"
"I'm not interested." I laughed, shook my head, and leaned back on my swivel chair.
"At bakit, ano? Sino'ng gusto mo? Iyong Serafine Mendez? Her father is a culprit! Don't tell me you—"
"Huwag mong idamay si Serafine dito," I said firmly.
"Why not?" Her lips curled. "Bakit? Siya ba ang gusto mo—"
"I keep her only because of her father," I lied. "I won't stick to her if it's just the case. If she finds out and leaves, isasama niya ang tatay niya. Tell me, how will I start looking for them again?"
She stared at me, as if reading me. Tinitigan ko rin siyang seryoso hanggang sa napansin kong napapaniwala ko na siya.
"Don't mind my business, Engineer. Wala ka namang kinalaman dito, 'di ba?" I watched her reaction.
"N-Nothing!" She looked pissed.
Wala nga ba?
˚ˋঌ˖˚ˋঌ˖˚ˋঌ˖
WE WENT TOGETHER, planning to buy groceries for her family.
"Ako na magbabayad, Rai," she said, peeking over my shoulder while looking at the cashier.
I stared at her, slowly pulled her close, and kissed the top of her head.
"Let me, baby," I said.
She held my waist. I gently wrapped my arm around her.
"What's the matter?" I asked.
"Nothing, I just... I can pay. Nahihiya na ako sa 'yo," she whispered.
I chuckled before glancing at the cashier and back at me.
"Let me remind you what I am?"
"Papa dè Asukal," she whimpered.
I winked, pinched her cheek, and slowly held her hand.
"Then let daddy pay, okay? It's fine," I said, convincing her. Soon enough, tumango siya ay idinantay ang ulo sa balikat ko.
After our grocery run, I let her choose the restaurant she wanted. She insisted on paying, and this time, I let her.
She picked a local fast food place, and I gladly waited while she ordered for us. I would've loved to treat her to finer restaurants, but she was so happy just to choose a place herself.
"I'll order chicken. Ano'ng parte gusto mo?" she asked.
"Maging parte ng buhay mo," I said, remembering Caspian's hugot tips.
She froze, her cheeks flushing red. I laughed and winked.
Damn, that moved her. May kwenta rin pala minsan sinasabi no'ng Caspian na 'to!
"L-Landi mo!" she groaned.
I smirked as she pouted and tapped me lightly.
"B-Breast part na lang sa 'yo," she muttered.
My eyes fell on her chest, and I laughed again when she gasped and pinched me.
"Daddy, minamanyak mo ako!"
"Me?" I grinned. "Sino sa atin gustong sukatin ang—"
"Sshh! Bye! Order na ako!" She rolled her eyes and stormed away, her face red in embarrassment.
When she came back, she was almost hopping toward me. She placed the tray in front of me. Tinignan ko ang order niyang chicken, spaghetti, and ice cream.
"Masarap 'yan, halo-halo flavor ng ice cream!" she boasted.
I smiled and nodded. Tumayo ako at pinag-angat siya ng upuan sa harapan ko.
We talked about her studies, her hobbies, and her struggles in engineering. She was talking animatedly, her eyes alive and burning with enthusiasm. I felt proud of her for pursuing her dreams, proud hearing her say she wanted to succeed for her family.
My forehead creased when I noticed two men looking our way. At first, I thought nothing of it, but when I saw them whispering and grinning while glancing at her, natanto ko kung ano'ng ginagawa nila.
They were staring at Serafine's legs. My jaw ticked. Kumulo ang dugo ko.
"Tapos, daddy, alam mo ang effective no'ng technique na tinuro mo—"
"Baby, let's exchange seats," I said.
"Hmm?" She looked shocked.
I glanced at the two men again. When they saw me, they immediately looked away.
"Huh? Why?" she asked.
"Come on, let's switch." I offered her my hand. Confused, she nodded, and when we switched, her eyes were full of questions.
I removed my coat, laid it across her lap, kissed her forehead, and sat in her former seat.
Nakuha niya kaagad ang ginagawa ko. She followed my line of vision to the men nearby, and as if she understood, she smiled at me and whispered her thanks.
Tahimik kami at magkahawak kamay papunta sa sasakyan sa parking. Pasulyap-sulyap ako, gustong malaman ano ang dahilan ng mga ngiti niya at tahimik na umaasa na sana'y para sa 'kin 'yon.
She lifted her hand, trying to take the grocery bags I was carrying.
"Let me help," she said.
I shifted all the bags into one hand, caught her other hand, and intertwined our fingers.
"You saying?"
Namula siya at mas humigpit ang hawak sa 'kin.
"Thank you, daddy," she whispered, meeting my eyes. "For being kind and good to me."
"You deserve it." I smiled. She tiptoed to kiss my cheek before walking with me to the car.
Anything for you, baby. Anything for you.
I realized it's true, anything great starts to crumble the moment you think it's finally perfect.
Masakit man, but I have to let her go. I have to let her find her peace of mind, let her be free to do whatever she wants to. To fulfill her dreams. For herself. For her family.
Bobo mo kasi, Miranda. Kaka-graduate lang ng tao, namatayan ng Tatay, at hindi pa sanay sa bagong buhay na mayro'n siya ngayon... tapos aayain mong magpakasal?
˚ˋঌ˖˚ˋঌ˖˚ˋঌ˖
"GANYAN TALAGA ANG buhay, weather-weather lang." Caspian tapped my back.
Sinulyapan ko lang siya, tahimik at sinulyapan ang mga pinsang nakaupo at kumukuha ng inumin.
"Naglalasing ka, hindi ka nag-aaya?" Warren asked. I sighed, took another sip, and poured myself more liquor.
"Maybe she was pressured," Wave commented.
"I pressured her, I guess," I whispered.
"Gulatan naman kasi 'yon, Vioxx," Lucian said, shaking his head. "Bumisita ako dito kasama 'yong mga ugok kasi sisingilin ko 'yong utang mo last—"
"Bayad na ako," I smirked.
"Gago, hindi." He hissed. "Nangutang ka kay Warrion no'ng papunta ka sa probinsya ni Sera!"
"Oh, eh, bakit ka naniningil sa akin? Warrion should be—"
"'Yong binigay niya sa 'yo, utang 'yon sa akin!" He scoffed. I glared at Warrion, who coughed into his wine when he saw me looking.
"I got no money! Nangutang ako d'yan sa pirata—"
"I'm a captain, not a pirate!" Lucian hissed.
"Whatever. Wala akong maibigay sa 'yo kaya nangutang ako kay Lucian. Sinabi kong sa 'yo, ilista," Warrion cleared.
Napahawak ako sa sentido at umiling.
"Look, I've got a problem now," I said.
"Hindi kita sisingilin," Lucian muttered. "May puso naman ako, gago kayo."
Nagtawanan sila. 'Di ko pinansin at pagod na pagod ako. Minasahe ko ang sentido.
Siguro marupok talaga ako, at wala sa bokabolaryo ko ang pagsuko. Kaya ilang taon akong naging tambay sa probinsya nila.
"Engineer, kailan tayo magpapakita?" Lando asked, pretending to be a security guard.
"Don't know. Hindi pa siguro siya handang makita tayo," I said, slowly mopping the floor because now, I was a janitor.
"Eh, ilang taon na tayong sumusunod kay Ma'am—"
"Nand'yan na siya!" I hissed.
Lando panicked. Dali-daling inangat niya ang mask at tumungo para 'di makita ang mukha niya.
Pasimple ko namang pinanuod si Serafine na lumabas ng sasakyan niya at naglakad papasok sa kanyang firm.
"Ma'am, keys," the valet asked, and she handed them over with a smile. That... took my breath away.
She was wearing a white coat and pants. It was paired with a cropped top, her hair tied in a sleek bun, handbag in hand.
Her eyes narrowed as she walked with a cold expression, but whenever her employees greeted her, she immediately smiled back and wished them good morning.
My baby, I am so proud of you.
Lando's hand almost shook when Sera greeted him. I sighed.
Ang pangit umakting, Lando!
Pero no'ng papalapit na siya sa 'kin ay ako naman ang nawala sa sarili. Dagli akong tumungo, inayos ang mas at cap bago mas ginalingan ang pagma-mop sa sahig.
"Good morning, Kuya," she greeted.
"G-Good morning, Engineer," I said, trying my best to fake my voice as my heart was racing.
I forced myself not to meet her eyes, afraid she'd recognize me, but I jumped when she touched my arm.
"Iba ata ang boses mo, Kuya? Pahinga ka muna, baka pagod ka," she said.
"A-Ayos lang, Engineer." My damn voice cracked.
"Oh? Naku, pumipiyok ka na, Kuya," aniya. "Pahinga ka po muna."
"A-Ayos lang, salamat," I replied.
I glanced at her and saw her nod, concern in her eyes. When she looked at my face, I quickly turned away.
"Uh, may iba ka bang kasama sa maintenance, Kuya? Pasuyo po ako, sira kasi ang aircon sa opisina," she asked.
"S-Sige po." I nodded, lowering my head.
"Salamat, Kuya. Inom ka po ng gamot," she said with a smile before leaving.
I watched her head to the elevator, watched how her employees greeted her, and how she responded kindly.
My heart thudded, proud of her. Proud that kindness remained in her heart despite the harshness of her world.
"Ako na ang pupunta sa opisina ni Engineer!" one of the maintenance guys said when I volunteered to go up.
"No," I said firmly. Natigilan siya.
"Okay lang 'yan, Armando. Ako na lang, alam kong tinatamad ka—"
"Hell no," I hissed, almost aggressive this time.
"Wow, Englishero ka pala!" he teased. I sighed, rubbed my temples, and cleared my throat.
"Hindi, narinig ko lang," I explained. "Ako na ang mag-aayos ng aircon doon."
"Ako na," he insisted. "Crush ko iyon si Engineer, pasulyap lang—"
"Ako," I said, pointing at myself. "Ako ang aakyat."
'Di ko na siya inantay na magsalita at inunahan ko na. I brought the cleaning tools and equipment as I went to my woman's office.
Even if I was hiding behind an unknown identity, I had to look presentable. I adjusted my mask and cap, straightened my uniform, and even sprayed perfume.
Kumatok ako. Nang marinig na pinapapasok niya ako'y tinulak ko ang pintuan papasok.
Mula sa blueprint sa lamesa ay bumaling siya sa 'kin.
"Aayusin lang po ang aircon," I said.
"Sige po, pasok lang. Salamat." She smiled.
I nodded. She returned to her blueprint, lost in thought, twirling her pen absentmindedly. I was fascinated, I kept on stealing glances at her as I worked on the aircon.
Habang tinatanggal ko ang aircon para linisin, nasulyapan ko ang blueprint na hawak niya at wala sa sariling na nagsalita.
"Maybe you should consider a foundation here," I said, pointing at the blueprint.
She froze, quickly glanced at me, and I cleared my throat, turning back to the aircon to avoid her gaze.
Shit! Ang bobo naman, Miranda!
"Y-You think so, too? I was thinking the same thing. Kailangan ko lang ipaliwanag sa Architect," she muttered. "Wow, ang galing mo naman, Kuya. Do you have a background in this?"
Umiling ako. I almost cursed myself for butting in. I kept quiet, focusing on the aircon to avoid further stupidity.
"Ano'ng pangalan mo, Kuya?" she asked curiously. "Ang galing mo, kanina ko pa iniisip kung tama ba 'yon, pero no'ng sinabi mo—"
"H-Hula ko lang, Engineer." I cleared my throat.
Damn you, Miranda!
"Hmm, anong name n'yo?"
"A-Armando," I muttered.
She nodded, then stood and stepped closer. I felt the effect it made to my body. I stiffened.
"Ano'ng problema ng aircon, Kuya Armando?" she asked.
Her sweet scent intoxicated me. I was on the verge of hugging her, but I forced myself to stay calm, or she'll get creeped out.
"M-Madumi lang," I said, lowering my voice.
Tumango siya, sumandal sa table at pinanuod ako. She doesn't know her effect on me. My hands shook as I cleaned the air conditioner, tension filling me.
"Talaga bang naka-mask kayo, Kuya?" she asked. "Ilang araw na kitang nakikita dito pero hindi ko pa nakikita ang mukha mo."
"R-Required po," I replied.
"Oh, I see. Anyway, curious question, ano pong pabango n'yo?"
I froze, my heart hammering inside my chest.
"B-Bakit?"
"Wala lang. Parehas po ata kasi kayo ng pabango ng boyfriend ko."
I turned to her and saw her staring at her feet.
"H-Huh?"
"Wala, Kuya." She chuckled lightly. "You have the same scent as him. I don't know if kilala n'yo, but he's also an engineer."
I stared at her, noticing the small smile on her lips as she moved her foot.
"Engineer Vioxx Miranda, kilala n'yo?" she asked. When she looked at me, I quickly turned away and cleared my throat.
"No," I said, my calmness gone.
Fuck, boyfriend pa rin niya ako.
Damn it, Miranda, calm down! You are still her boyfriend!
Gusto kong mapasuntok sa ere sa tuwa! Muntik ko pang mabalibag iyong takip ng aircon!
"Nasaan siya ngayon?" I asked and glanced at her.
She sighed, shaking her head. "I was hurt, and I broke his heart, too," she said softly. "Baka galit iyon sa akin."
My chest tightened.
"I'm not, baby," I said lowly.
She froze, quickly turned to me, and I cursed under my breath, lowering my cap further and pretending to focus on the aircon.
Ang tanga talaga ni Miranda!
"A-Ano'ng sabi mo, Kuya?" aniya kaya nagkagulo ang utak ko sa palusot.
"B-Baby, I mean... You know that song with the lyrics 'Number One Baby?'" I stammered.
Fuck, Miranda!
"H-Huh?" She blinked rapidly.
"Nasayaw ko lang kasi sa TikTok," I said, panicking. When I saw her mouth part in surprise, I cursed under my breath.
I quickly gathered my tools and looked away. "Excuse me, Engineer Paakyatin ko na lang 'yong maintenance."
Halos takbuhin ko na ang opisina niya paalis.
When I told them, my cousins nearly died laughing.
"I ran out of excuses!" I defended.
"Gago ka, bakit ka kasi marupok?!" Wave laughed, clutching his stomach.
"I panicked! I ran out of something sane to say! Good thing I remembered that song!" I exclaimed.
"How did you know that?" Warrion asked. I glanced at Caspian, who was still laughing.
"Well..." Cas shrugged. "Thank me, everyone. Nagti-TikTok kami ni Riu na gano'n ang kanta! Narinig niya!"
Nahilot ko ang sentido, nasa punto nang 'di na papakita kay Sera sa kahihiyan at baka kapag nakita niya ako, maisip niya iyong pang-tangang palusot ko.
They began suggesting what other things I could do to make a move.
"Padalhan mo ng bulaklak," Warrion suggested when we reached Casa Amara, both of us still catching our breath from running away from Sera's place.
Sinilip ko lang siya pero nakita akong nakasilip sa halamanan.
"How? As if she'll take it if it's from me," I said.
Caspian returned after parking the tricycle and tapped me.
"Bellboy," he said.
"Ako?" I asked.
"No, ito," he said, and we all turned to Warren, who had just woken up, scratching his head in confusion.
"Tangina, ako na naman?!" he screamed as we forced him into a uniform.
"Sige na!" Warrion hissed. "Kaya mo naman, ah?"
"Gago ba kayo? Una, bodyguard ng asawa ni Darling Warrion ko, tapos ngayon bellboy na naman ng sugar baby mo?!" he exclaimed.
"She's Sera! Don't call her baby—she's my baby, okay?" I hissed.
"'Yan pa ang prinoblema mo, eh, mas problemado 'ko sa ipapagawa n'yo! Ayaw ko nga!" Warren snapped, crossing his arms.
"Arte naman nito ni Warren, sige na!" Cas said.
"At anong mapapala ko, aber?" he groaned, annoyed.
Natahimik kami. Then I remembered something, so I glanced at him with a smirk.
"Nothing... pero kilala ko si Architect Scira Valderama," I said.
That secured it. Bumaling siya kaagad kay Warrion at tumikhim.
"Akin na nga 'yan! Hindi kayo nagsasabi kaagad!" aniya habang sinusuot ang uniporme.
Crazy to think about the things we all do for love—but that's how it works. No pain, no gain. If I hadn't done it, I wouldn't have my baby girl back with me.
From: Mama dè Asukal
Hi, Daddy! You'll be late tonight, right?
To: Mama dè Asukal
Yes, I've got to sign some paperwork. Have you eaten yet?
From: Mama dè Asukal
Okay! Punta ako sa condo mo? I wanna sleep there. Palagi na lang tayo sa unit ko natutulog. Miss ko na 'yong iyo :((((
To: Mama dè Asukal
Okay, no problem. Kumain ka na?
From: Mama dè Asukal
Not yet :(
To: Mama dè Asukal
Why??? It's almost one, woman!
From: Mama dè Asukal
Miss you :(
Hindi ko na nakayanan. I stood from my seat, the board members staring at me as I cleared my throat.
"Excuse me first, proceed," I said.
Pagkalabas ko, mabilis kong tinawagan si Serafine.
"Daddy ko! Hello! Love you!" masaya niyang bati.
My heart melted instantly, the irritation fading as I exhaled.
"Hi, baby, I love you," I said, sounding like a puppy.
She giggled. I entered my office, sat on my swivel chair, and continued talking to her.
"Bakit hindi ka pa kumakain? It's one," I said.
"Kakadating lang ng food ko. Too hot pa, I can't eat it," she sighed.
"You're too hot, but I still eat you, though," I teased.
She screamed on the line. I laughed. I leaned back and closed my eyes, listening to her.
"Bad daddy! You're making me blush!" she exclaimed. I smiled.
"I love you, Sera, and our baby."
"Love you, Rai. Kain din ako maya-maya. Buti tumawag ka, I'm bored here in my unit. Nakapili ako ng magandang bulaklak para sa church, tapos wala na akong ginagawa," she said sadly.
"I'll try my best to finish work early, is that alright?"
"Okay. Punta ako sa unit mo mamaya? I want to cook for you. Daan ako sa market."
"Sure, baby. Promise, I'll be early. I'll multitask."
The call ended, leaving me in a good mood. Pagkalabas ko pa lang ng opisina, nagsibatian na sila, pansin ata ang mood ko. Napansin ko ring may grupong nag-uumpukan kaya lumapit ako.
"Engineer!" They panicked and scattered. I laughed.
"It's alright, it's lunch time. Ano'ng pinagkakaguluhan n'yo?" I asked.
"Hi, Engineer!" Tawag nila.
It was Trisha and Roff, mga kaibigan ni Sera sa firm noon na lumipat sa kompanya ko no'ng umalis ako.
"What is that?" I asked.
"Nagpe-FLAMES kami, Engineer," Trisha said.
"Huh? What's that?"
"Flames po, laro 'yon, para malaman kung meant-to-be ba kayo ng partner mo."
Curious, I frowned and looked at the paper. "Really? Is it legit? How do you do it?"
She showed me her paper. My brows rose when I saw her name beside Marco Flores, my fiancée's cousin.
"Ang flames po, bawat letter may meaning," she explained, showing me the chart:
F – Friends
L – Lovers
A – Anger
M – Marriage
E – Enemy
S – Soulmates
"Tapos, sulat mo buong pangalan mo at pangalan ng partner. Cross out all the letters na pareho kayong mayro'n. 'Yong total, bilangin n'yo, tapos makikita kung saan kayo sa flames. Example, twelve—letter S. Soulmates!"
My eyes widened. I nodded.
"Gusto mo try natin kayo ni Sera?" Trisha teased. I shook my head and smiled.
"Ako na, I'll try later."
I was eager to try the game when I got home, but I forgot all about it when I saw my fiancée busy cooking.
I walked slowly toward her, hiding a bouquet of roses behind my back. When she heard me, lumingon siya kaagad na may malaking ngiti.
"Hi, baby." I kissed her cheek.
"Daddy!" she exclaimed. I showed her the flowers. Masayang tinanggap niya iyon bago ako hagkan.
"Thank you! I love you!" she said joyfully.
We ate together, enjoying the food she cooked. Afterwards, we watched a movie. Nakaupo siya habang nakahiga ako sa hita niya.
I hugged her waist gently, kissing her small baby bump.
"How are the flowers?" I asked. She glanced at me, smiling.
"I chose light colors kasi gusto ko pastel ang vibe," she said.
Tumango ako bago naupo. Kuryoso niya akong pinagmasdan nang tumayo ako para lumipat sa likuran niya.
She chuckled, realizing what I was about to do. She gave me space, and I quickly wrapped my arms around her waist, showering her neck with kisses.
"Rai..." she whispered.
"Hmm?" I hummed, brushing strands of hair away from her neck to kiss her more.
"Wala lang... I love you," she said softly.
My heart leapt. I kissed her neck again, my hand resting on her belly.
"Daddy, alam mo, I'm a bit sad kasi baka hindi na magkasya sa akin ang wedding gown."
I stopped, cupped her jaw, and gently turned her to face me.
"And why?"
"I eat a lot. I feel bigger..." she grunted.
I inserted my hand on her shirt, cupping her chest.
"Medyo lumaki nga," I muttered.
"Rai!" She exclaimed. I laughed, inserted my other hand, and massaged her breast alternately.
"W-What are you doing..." She muttered but I can already feel the draw of her breath turning heavy.
"Hmm? Massage?" I asked.
It made her moan. She tilted her head to give me access to her neck.
"Y-You're so clingy, Rai," she whispered. I pulled her close to me, claiming her leg and hitching it up on mine, spreading her as my hand dipped in between her thighs.
She cried my name, and as she came with my fingers in her pussy, I gently turned her around until she was straddling me. There, I freed myself and assisted her as she rode me to our highest cloud.
Wala na ata kaming kasawaan sa isa't-isa, I can't get enough while staring at the face of my future wife.
My sweet baby.
I cuddled her while her head rested on my chest. I brushed her hair.
"You'll be my wife, hmm..." I whispered, kissing her head.
Medyo naalimpungatan pa siya pero mas hinaplos ko lang ang likod niya.
"Sleep, baby," I whispered as I stroked her hair.
Soon, she was fast asleep. I smiled, watching her peacefully in my arms.
She was tangled in my sheets, her hair spread across the pillow. Her beautiful face never failed to bewitch me, even from the very first time we met.
She had smiled so brightly that day, and I thought her lips would taste sweeter than the cake she offered me. Galing pa nga iyon sa debut ng kapitbahay nilang 'di niya kilala pero ewan, mas masarap 'yon kaysa sa mga gawa ng chef na natikman ko.
I imagined the family I would build with her, for our baby. I promised myself I would work harder for them both. I promised to be better.
I promised to love her every day until the day I die.
Suddenly, I remembered the game earlier in my office. Slowly, I moved away from her, placed a pillow under her head, wrapped her in a blanket, and sat on the chair beside the bed.
I grabbed a scratch paper and scribbled the meaning of F-L-A-M-E-S.
Vioxx Ephraim Miranda
Serafine Veronica Mendez
I busied myself crossing out the letters our names shared. I grinned when I saw how many I had crossed out.
I counted the remaining letters—thirty-three in total.
I began counting through the acronym, and my smile froze when I landed on the letter A.
F – Friends
L – Lovers
A – Anger
M – Marriage
E – Enemy
S – Soulmates
"Fuck..." I muttered under my breath.
I must have done it wrong.
I rewrote our names, crossed out the letters again, but my forehead creased when I got the same result.
"Shit!" I hissed, crumpling the paper and tossing it away in frustration.
"What's the matter?" My back straightened when I heard her voice. Nilingon ko ang kama at nakitang gising na siya.
"Nothing, baby." I sighed. "Go back to sleep. I'll join you in a while."
But she didn't listen. She wore my shirt, walked over, picked up the crumpled paper, and sat on my lap.
"What's this?" she asked.
"Just... some childish game," I whispered.
I buried my face in her neck. She unfolded the paper, and moments later, she burst out laughing.
"What the heck, Daddy? Flames? Seriously? Pambata 'to, ah!" she exclaimed.
I sighed. She laughed again, cupping my cheek.
"Who taught you this?"
"No one," I muttered, trying to hide in her neck again, but she pulled away.
"Come on, Rai. Why are you sulking?"
"I fucking got an A," namomroblema kong sinabi.
She laughed, glancing at the paper again.
"Anger?" She chuckled. "This isn't true, Rai. You knew it."
"They say it shows if you're destined with your partner—"
"Silly. Naniwala ka? Eh, ikakasal na nga tayo?" she teased.
I frowned and sighed.
"At least an M or S would do! Bakit anger? Galit ka ba sa akin?" I sulked.
"No!" Her eyes sparkled with amusement. "I love you, Rai. Why would I be mad?"
"Magpapapalit na ako ng pangalan," I muttered. She laughed again, shaking her head.
"Oh my God, Rai! It's just a game!"
"Eh, hindi tayo meant-to-be!" I sulked, couldn't accept the fact that I got a letter A.
"Oh no, Daddy." She shook her head, touching my jaw.
"That isn't fair, Serafine. I want it to be good! Like another letter! Not a fucking A—"
"Then let's prove this game wrong," she said sweetly, stroking my jaw. She brushed my hair and looked at me softly.
"How?" I sighed. "Hindi ko matanggap 'to, Serafine. I'll change my name if I have to."
"We're getting married anyway," she soothed. "Once we're wed, that game won't matter. And we already have our baby."
"Still, I'm not happy. I'll never be content," I insisted.
"Pero malapit na ang wedding, Rai." She touched my face again.
"I want to prove that game wrong, Sera." I sighed, frustrated.
"We will, Rai. After our wedding."
"That's two months from now. I can't wait." I looked away.
"Sige, ganito na lang," she said. I looked at her, curious. "How about... we schedule our wedding earlier?"
That caught my attention. I straightened up.
"I can do that?" My eyes widened, 'di na napigil ang paglitaw ng ngiti.
"Uh-hmm." She nodded, kissing my forehead.
My heart thundered. I grinned, kissed her head, and showered kisses all over her face.
"You're the best! I love you!" I exclaimed, helping her stand.
"Ako pa!" She grinned.
I rushed to the drawer, rummaging for the wedding ring I stored there.
"Rai? What are you doing?" aniya.
"Fix yourself, baby," I said, smirking when I found the box.
"Huh? Why?" She looked confused.
I grinned, strode to her, and kissed her again.
"We'll get wed tonight," I declared.
Umawang ang labi niya, naghalo ang gulat at mangha sa ekspresyon.
Inangat ko ang kamay niya matapos kong tanggalin mula sa pendant ng kwintas ko ang singsing na noon pa ay nakalaan para sa kanya. I slipped it onto her finger, beside the new ring she already wore.
Patayin man ako ng mga pinsan ko sa imbitasyon ko kahit madaling-araw, wala na akong pakialam.
We went to Casa Amara. My future wife was dressed in a simple white dress, and I, in a suit and tie.
Inaantok pa ang pari nang pumasok kami sa private function room ng Casa, kung saan naro'n na ang mga pinsan.
"Ano bang trip n'yo?" Cas asked, yawning. Nakasabit pa sa kanyang balikat ang baby bag ng triplets.
"Thanks, everyone!" I grinned, waving at them.
"Damn you, Miranda! I'm sleepy!" Warrion hissed, holding his yawning wife by the waist.
"Do we get to eat after this?" Wave asked, grinning. "My wife's hungry." He pointed at Zirena.
Serafine laughed beside me, but I saw how her eyes swelled with tears. She was watching me happily, her lips trembling as she tried to hold back her cries.
"Rai, how about the wedding we already prepared?" She asked.
"I'll marry you again," I whispered. "Kahit ilang beses pa, Sera. Papakasalan kita."
The priest was sleepy but he blessed our simple wedding, finally and legally binding us together. Serafine was officially mine.
Who needs a perfect wedding when you already have a perfect wife?
Her tears fell as she watched me slip the wedding ring on her finger. The joy is brimming in her eyes.
My own tears were on the verge of falling, too, but I held them back, knowing my Serafine would cry harder if I did.
"Pa-mikmik ka naman d'yan!" Caspian exclaimed, whistling.
"Iiyak na 'yan!" my cousins teased, and even the priest chuckled when a tear slipped down my cheek.
I closed my eyes as my tears finally fell. It made Sera chuckle but she held me close, embraced me, and kissed my jaw.
"I love you, Daddy Rai," she whispered.
"I love you too, baby girl," I said, my hand reaching for her stomach, caressing it softly. "And to our little baby here, I'll spoil you so much."
"I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride," the priest announced. I have never been this happy.
Unti-unti ay maingat kong sinapo ang mukha niya. I stared at Serafine Veronica Mendez-Miranda.
I stared at the wonderful woman in front of me—my life, my love, the fire that keeps me burning brightly out of darkness.
My wife.
I kissed her deeply as loud cheers erupted from our still-sleepy guests. Nagpalakpakan sila.
"Sana all may jowa!" Warren shouted.
"Bayad muna utang!" Umalingawngaw ang boses ni Lucian na nakakamanghang umabot pa sa biglaang imbitasyon ko.
I smirked, kissing my wife again. My wife.
Fuck F-L-A-M-E-S. We're married now.
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