Kabanata 25
Kabanata 25
.·:*¨༺ ༻¨*:·.
BULLET
His eyes widened the same time his voice faded. My heart raced that I panicked and took my gun from my waist and pressed it on his chest.
He stiffened.
"Move," I hissed then pressed the gun more on his skin.
Bumaba ang tingin niya sa baril sa dibdib niya pabalik sa mga mata ko.
"It's amber, isn't it?" He asked again.
My heart thumped louder this time, "it's not—"
"It is," he pointed out, "you aren't wearing contacts."
"I am! How could you be so sure?"
"Oh, sige nga, ilan 'to?" He raised his two fingers.
"Two," I made a face. "Malabo ang mata ko, Sandejas. 'Di bulag!"
He smirked at my remark.
"So, wala ka ngang contacts?"
When my smile faded, he smirked wickedly.
"I know your eyes, hun. I know if you're wearing contacts or not," aniya. "The rims vanished."
I blinked repeatedly. His brow shot up and I pressed my hand with the gun more and tilted my head.
"Move," I commanded.
Hindi siya gumalaw at mas humaplos lang sa baywang ko. It sent shivers up my spine, he was too close our breaths mingled but I should be sane!
"I said, move!" I hissed.
Tinapik ko ang palad niya sa baywang ko at tumalim ang tingin.
"If you don't let go, you won't see me again. I swear," and that's what made him pull his hand away.
The shift in his eyes changed and he look annoyed now.
"Fine," he raised his hand a little in the air, "alam na alam mo talaga paano ako paluhurin, ano?"
"You still aren't kneeling, baby," I smirked.
"Oh?" He cocked his head, "do you want me to?"
"Would you?" I challenged, trying to take the upper hand.
"I will," his lips thinned, "with your legs spread and my tongue on your cunt."
Blood rushed on my face.
So much for trying to take the upper hand.
"Fuck you."
"I will," he smirked then lowered his hand to fold it on his chest, "only if you want me to which is...I sure you do."
"I'm not!" I roared and tilted my head, "walk!"
"Where? In bed?"
Mas sumabog ang init sa mukha ko sa kalokohan niya. He isn't really taking me seriously!
"Ginagago mo ba ako, Sandejas?"
"Hindi, minamahal lang," when he caught me off guard, he moistened his lips and chuckled. "You look fucking sexy when you blush."
I clenched my jaw, "hindi ako nakikipagbiruan, ah? Lakad!"
He followed like a kid. Nang tinuro ko ang upuan ay naupo siya doon at inangat ang tingin sa akin.
"Do you have a rope here?" I asked.
His lips protruded towards the drawer. Tinutok ko sa kanya ang baril at naglakad papunta roon at binuksan.
I saw a rope inside and pulled it out.
"Bakit may ganito ka rito?" My eyes narrowed. "Sinong tinatali mo?"
He gave me a playful look. Mas sumimangot ako at inangat ang tali, "well?"
"Hulaan mo,"
And now I'm more annoyed.
"Come on, baby. Let's talk," he surrendered. "Let's talk about your eyes and—"
"Let's talk about this rope!" Lumapit ako sa kanya at inabot ang baril ko. "Point it to yourself."
"What?!" He laughed, "seriously?"
"'Di mo 'ko susundin?"
Giving up, he nodded and obliged. He happily pointed it on his chin.
"There, happy?"
I rolled my eyes, took the rope bago ko pinaikutan ang dibdib at ang likod, sa sandalan ng upuan niya.
"Seriously, Tish," he laughed, "I'm topless, baby. I know gustong-gusto mong nakikita ang sexy body ko but it's fucking cold."
"Manigas ka," singhal ko.
"If you want to tie me up, you could've just asked," aniya. "I know your kink."
"My kink will be fucking you with my knife on your throat," I hissed.
His hearty laugh roared and my cheeks flushed when I saw the bulge on his pajamas. Sinipa ko ang paa niya.
"The fuck, you're turned on?"
"Why not try it out now?" aniya, "I'm tied here, helpless. It's not like I could do anything while you fuck me, right?" Kumislap ang mata niya.
I shook my head.
Stay focused, Bullet!
Agenda muna bago ang harot!
Habang inaayos ko ang tali ay naramdaman ko ang nguso ng baril sa tiyan ko.
My eyes went back to him.
"I said point it to yourself, not to me," but his eyes remained on my stomach then lifted my shirt with the mouth of the gun and caressed my navel with it.
"Zion..."
"You're getting thin," aniya at ang malambing na mata ay sinalubong ang akin. "Kumain ka na ba?"
My throat dried up.
"Diet ako," sagot ko bago kinuha ang baril sa kanya at ang kamay naman niya ang tinali.
Hindi rin naman siya nagreklamo. He's always the willing hostage at mukhang naaaliw pa siya habang nakikita akong naglalakad sa harapan niya.
"What is it, hun?" He asked, "spill."
I bit my lip and walked closer to him. Sumampa ako sa hita niya paharap. His breath hitched and I swear I felt his cock stirred but didn't comment otherwise.
"What's with you and Jackie?" I asked harshly.
"What's with us?"
"I mean..." I gave him a pointed look, "I overheard you two talking!"
Tumaas ang kilay niya at umayos ng sandal habang nakabukaka at naroon ako at nakasampa sa kanya.
"About what?"
"Thank you again for last night, Zy. I enjoyed it." I mimicked with a mocking, disgusted voice.
Tumawa siya.
"Anong nakakatawa?!" I narrowed my gaze, annoyed.
"Tish..." he smirked, "it's nothing, baby."
"But still...I loved it. Ngayon lang ulit nakatikim ng gano'n." I mimicked again and faked like I'm puking pero 'di pa rin ako sineseryoso.
Mas tumawa lang siya at napailing-iling, "jealous?"
I frowned.
"I am not!" I exclaimed, "I'm not the jealous type."
His brow shot up, "me too."
"Really, huh? Pakialam ko sa inyo? Mukhang nasayahan daw last night! Ano? While you're pestering me with random food deliveries and flowers, even with the childish annulment papers nagpapatikim ka ng kung ano? Aba, sige at magtikiman pa kayo!"
Tumitig siya sa akin at humagalpak na naman. I kicked his shin and pointed the gun back on his chin.
"Answer me or I'll..."
"You'll what? Kiss me?"
Nahulog ang tingin ko sa mapula niyang labi. It was turned upward for a silly smile which makes him more handsome, he moistened it before biting it playfully.
Tumikhim ako.
"Shut it," I tilted his chin up with the gun. "Answer me."
"Pilitin mo muna ako," he blurted.
My face crumpled.
"Ayaw mo magsalita? Edi h'wag," umamba akong tumayo pero pumulupot ang paa niya sa paa ko at sa huli'y bumagsak ako pabalik sa hita niya.
He frowned, disappointed.
"Hindi ka man lang mamimilit? Ang bilis mo namang sumuko, ayaw mo ba sa kiss ko?"
"Kiss my ass,"
"Alright, bend over, hun." He mused.
Nahulog ang balikat ko. Mas tumawa siya at isinandal pa ang baba sa baril ko, walang takot. Paano kung pinaputok ko 'to edi sabog ang utak niya?
He pouted his lips, "I miss your kisses, p'wede kahit isa?"
Muntik na akong mapahilot sa sentido. Minsan 'di ako sigurado kung asawa ko 'to o anak sa konsumisyong ibinibigay.
I flicked his lips hardly it made him grimace.
"Brute," he whispered then watched me closely again, his eyes not straying on mine. "What did you hear?"
"I told you already," I breathed. "Kung ayaw mo sagutin, it's fine. I understand if you have interest in other woman b-but...can you not entertain first if we're still married?"
His expression hardened.
"I mean, just sign the annulment and I'll go—"
"How many times do I have to tell you I won't love again if it's not you?" I stiffened at his harsh yet final tone. "We're not getting annulled, Mrs. Sandejas. You can push me all you want but I'll stick with you like a leech."
My throat dried and just stared at him.
Is that for real or...
"I won't sign the annulment, misis. You are married to me. I didn't look for you unknowingly all this time just to lose you again."
"You're insane," I bit my inner cheek.
"I am, with you," he tilted his head. "If you think I'll let you go, think again. If you leave, take me with you. If you die, I'll fucking die with you. You understand me?"
Nahulog ang tingin ko sa dibdib niya. Natatakot na makita niya ang luhang namumuo sa mga mata ko.
"Look at me, Tish," he breathed.
I didn't move.
"Look at me, baby," rumahan ang boses niya. "Tell me what bothers you. Get mad if you want to, hurt me if you please. Just tell me...I know you can manage alone but I couldn't. I want to know what you think. What you feel. What makes you mad. I want to know everything."
Unti-unti'y sinalubong ko ang tingin niya.
"I'm not worth your love, Zy,"
"You do," he said with finality.
But still the bitter feeling of self doubt lingers on my mouth, the sweetness of his voice fading with it.
Did I deserve it?
"Bakit? Sigurado ka na ba sa 'kin?" Swallowing the lump on my throat, I caught his gaze.
"Bakit naman hindi?" He asked, "I was never this sure in my life, Tish. I may fucked up a lot of times but if there was once thing I am certain about, it was you"
"Bakit ako?" Maliit kong sabi.
"Bakit hindi ikaw?" He retorted. "It was me who don't deserve your love."
My brows met, "how could you say that?"
"How could you say that?" Ibinalik niya ang tanong sa 'kin. "Puso mo ba 'to, huh, misis?"
Umiling ako, "I don't deserved your love, Zy. Napakabuti mong tao. Yes, sometimes you annoy the hell out of me I wanted to gut you but...how could you give your heart so freely to someone who doesn't know how to l-love?"
It made him stop.
"Tish..." pain mirrored his gaze, "I'm sorry."
"Wala ka namang kasalanan," umiling ako. "You are mad. It was your sister. I understand. You've been blaming yourself for not being able to protect your whole family and when they got Twinkle in my care—I get it. Even I was mad of myself. Kung gano'n din ang mangyayari sa kapatid ko, sa pamilya ko, makakapatay ako. You don't know who I really was. I was lucky because you trusted me not to betray you, you bared your heart to me kahit 'di ka sigurado kung iingatan ko 'yan o sisirain lang."
"Tish, listen,"
"Hindi ako galit, Zion," bulong ko. "Hindi sa mga nasabi mo. If i was in your position I could've done worst. Hindi na ako magsasalita, papatayin ko na lang kaagad."
"I'd rather kill myself than kill you," nagkatinginan kami. "Mahal kita. Ikaw lang. Ikaw palagi."
Tears streak down my cheek. His eyes mirrored grief.
"Let me go, hun," he called. "Don't cry, let me dry your tears."
Umiling ako at hinawi ang luha. Nabalot kami ng katahimikan. Hinayaan niya akong gano'n hanggang sa kumalma ako.
Why the hell I am this emotional? I was never this way before but ever since I met him again, he can magically bring out every emotion out of me.
"Sorry, a-ayokong isipin mong nagda-drama ako,"
"If there's anyone who's fucking dramatic in this room, it would be me," he mused.
Lumabi ako, "you're a drama queen." I pointed out.
He smiled, "I sure do. Let's talk, baby. Anong narinig ni Meow-meow?"
"Huh?" My tears came into a halt.
The fuck?
"'Yong pumipiyok na pusa sa may basurahan, 'di ba si Meow-meow 'yon—oh!" He acted shock, "este ikaw pala, misis?"
My tears vanished. I smacked his chest. Tumawa siya.
"You know it was me?!"
"I had a hint," aniya. "Kasi 'di naman pumipiyok ang pusa natin."
"Fuck!" I cursed and covered my face. He laughed.
Parang mas nakakaiyak pa ang kahihiyan na 'to kaysa sa pinag-usapan namin kanina, ah? Hell, I don't even know how possible it was to feel such variety of emotions in short periods of time! Si Zion lang palagi ang kasama ko kapag ganito!
"You knew?" Inangat ko ang tingin.
"I just felt it," aniya. "Not sure, though. Kaya pumasok na ako, naisip ko baka nangangarap lang akong gising at 'di kita nakikita ng ilang araw na. I was fucking scared when I felt someone's watching me from the terrace, it was you?"
I shrugged, "you bet I am."
"Then...how 'bout the woman watching me in my sleep?"
I stared at him blankly, "there is?"
All the amusement vanished on his face, "h-hindi ikaw?"
"Why the fuck would I watch you sleep? You think I'm a creep?" I asked seriously but I was hysterically laughing internally.
He watched me intently. I showed nothing and hell, it was heaven when I saw how his face broke into genuine terror.
"Misis ko, 'di ako nakikipagbiruan—"
"I am not joking," I frowned, "the hell would I watch you?"
"Weh?" Namilog ang mata niya, "you don't?"
Nang 'di ako sumagot at tumitig lang ay umawang ang labi niya.
"Was it a dream?" he asked, "sometimes, I wake up without reason. Sometimes, I could feel someone watching me pero kapag nagigising ako nawawala.
"What time was it usually?"
"Two or three a.m.," he explained. "You know that feeling like you feel like you're being watched?"
"Hmm," napaisip ako kunwari. "I heard that if you woke up without any reason at all, you are being watched by someone you can't see."
Umawang ang labi niya.
"Really?"
I lowered the gun.
"Yes, you should try again. Maybe this time you can see the woman..." unti-unti kong itinungo ang mukha at hinayaan ang mga hibla ng buhok na mahulog sa mukha. "Face-to-face with you when you wake up looking like this."
"Tish!" He roared.
I remembered the fucking horror house again and how I was extra scaring him. Sumakit ang tuhod ko kakagapang no'n sa horror house, ah!
Weh, Bullet? But if you're kneeling and giving him a head, wala kang reklamo?
My cheeks flushed. I masked it with mockery.
"Then, she'll look at you like this," I eyed him coldly, "then, smile widely like this." I smiled creepily when he screamed and closed his eyes.
"Wala! Wala akong nakikita! La la la!" He sang with his eyes closed, reminding me so much of Twila.
"Then, you could hear her singing you a lullaby..."
I hummed on his ear creepily. He screamed quietly, without a sound, refusing to open his eyes while shaking his head.
"Alive! Alive! Alive forevermore!" He sang an unfamiliar song. "My Jesus is alive!"
Oh, God. Is that a gospel song?!
I bit my lower lip and tried stopping my cackles. Unti-unti akong tumayo sa hita niya at doon na siya nagmulat at sobrang bilis akong hinanap.
"Saan ka, misis?! H'wag mo 'kong iwan!"
I opened my mouth dramatically and pointed nothing from behind him.
"Sino 'yan?"
"A-ano?!" Sumubok siyang lumingon, "anong mayro'n?"
"Shit! Ghost!" I exclaimed and sprinted to close the lights and ran towards the door to close it behind me.
An earth-shattering scream filled my ears and I was hysterically laughing when I heard a loud crash. Nawala ang ngiti ko at dali-daling pumasok.
I opened the lights and gasped loudly when I saw my husband, on the floor, face flat with the whole chair tied behind him.
"Mister!" I called loudly at kasabay no'n ay ang pagsabog ng pintuan ng kwarto.
"Sir?!" The guards appeared, stopping their tracks upon seeing me and their boss tied on the fucking chair while face flat on the ground.
Sabay-sabay silang tumingin sa akin at inangat ang baril nila.
I gulped and dropped my weapon, raising my hand in the air.
"C-can I have an ice pack?" I asked awkwardly.
Nagkabukol si Sandejas. He was glaring at me while I was pressing it on his forehead.
"You think it's funny?"
I nodded while stopping my smiles. His jaw clenched. Mabilis akong umiling.
"Of course, it's not," bawi ko sabay sulyap sa noo niya. "Sorry, unicorn."
Narinig ko ang tawanan ng ilang tauhan. He glared more at me then, to his men.
"May nakakatawa?" He spat. Lahat sila ay nag-iwas at pumormal.
Mukha naman kasi talaga na siyang unicorn. May isang halatang bukol sa noo.
I imagined him transforming into a horse. I wanted a pink colored unicorn for him.
I chuckled.
"May nakakatawa, Mrs. Sandejas?" He asked coldly.
My heart skipped a beat. I shook my head.
"Nothing, Mr. Sandejas," I answered then pressed the ice pack on his forehead harder.
"Shit!" He cursed loudly that in a blink of an eye, nakatutok na sa akin ang baril ng team niya.
I blinked in shock. That was quick.
"The hell are you doing?" Napatalon ako sa boses ng asawa ko at akala ko'y ako ang pinapagalitan pero ang titig ay nasa mga kasama.
"Sir?"
"Why the fuck are pointing a gun at my wife?" His voice roared.
"Sir, she was—"
"Lower the fucking guns," malamig at mariin niyang sinabi. "If I see anyone pointing a gun in my wife's direction, I'll blow your fucking heads myself. You understand?"
They look like they're doubting me and hesitant but in the end, lowered their guns.
"Sir, yes, sir!"
"Out," he tilted his head to the door and I watched as the armed men saluted and left.
Diniin kong muli ang ice pack sa noo niya.
"Aww, what?" He turned whiny again.
'Di talaga maintindihan minsan ang ugali ng lalaking 'to.
"You're harsh," I pointed out. "They're just doing their job."
"It wasn't their job to point a gun on my wife's head," reklamo niya at inayos ang kamay kong hawak ang ice pack. Sa halip na kunin ay ang kamay ko ang hinawakan mismo para gawin ang gusto.
He pressed the ice pack gently on his forehead while guiding my hand. His caress gentle and long.
My heart won't stop racing.
"Anyone that can cast harm against you are considered a threat," I explained. "It's a natural thing to do. It's their job to protect you, even against me."
"I don't need protecting against my wife," he naturally said, like it wasn't a big thing! "I can handle her just fine."
"What was that supposed to mean?" Tumaas ang kilay ko, "na hindi ako threat? I could easily kill you, Zion Schauffer and you have no one else in here to protect you. You don't even know I have a knife pointing in your waist."
But he didn't look shock, he casually took a peek and shot his brow up.
"Nah, I knew, baby. It was you who didn't notice I'm about to blow your head.
I closed my eyes when I felt the cold barrel of the gun behind my head.
"Fuck! Palagi na lang," I whined and kicked my feet.
He chuckled and then lowered the gun, "come on, my forehead's aching. Baka may lumabas na talagang sungay d'yan kapag 'di naagapan."
Pouting, I pressed the ice pack on his forehead. Lumuhod pa ako sa gilid ng couch para tignan ang pamumula nang bigla niya akong buhatin.
I squealed when he part my legs after pulling me, making me straddle his waist.
"Zion!"
"Para mas gumaling kaagad ang bukol!" aniya at pinirmi ako, "baby, come on. Masakit na siya. Aww!" Inarte pa niya.
I eyed him sharply. He just stared at me softly, 'di tuloy ako sigurado kung nagbibiro o seryoso. In the end, I gave in. Kasalanan ko naman na nagkabukol siya.
Turns out, he panicked and stood to run with me but because he's tied on the chair, nadapa siya. Plakda, una ang mukha. Naging unicorn tuloy.
Habang inaasikaso ko ang noo niya ay naramdaman ko ang pag-angat niya sa shirt kong suot. I groaned and was about to smack his hand away when I realized he was checking my wound.
"Did you get this check again?" His finger traced my waist.
"It's fine," I assured. "No infection or so. Daplis lang."
He frowned then lifted his hand to my shoulder and gently pushed my shirt away. Hinaplos niya ulit ang sugat ko at nagkatinginan kaming dalawa.
"Let's go to the hospital," aniya. "I want to make sure there's no infection—"
"Chill out, I'm fine," I repeated. "That's just a bullet."
"I couldn't risk again, Tish," his face hardened. "We'll see a doctor. Habang 'di ko naririnig na ayos lang ang sugat mo, 'di ako mananahimik. I'll pester you again and again so just agree."
He moved his head to give my shoulder a gentle kiss before fixing my shirt and resting his back on the couch.
I sighed, "fine. Jayden checked it and it was okay."
"Who's that Jayden, anyway?" Now, the grumpy Sandejas is back. "May gusto ba 'yon sa 'yo?"
Of course not. He's head over heels in love with Clau!
But I didn't say, I just shrugged. Mas bumusangot siya.
"What? He is?"
"I don't know," I lied. "But if he was..." I pointed my face, "can you blame him?"
He groaned, "bakit kasi ang ganda-ganda mo? Ilista mo. Sino pang kaagaw ko?"
I chuckled, "asshole, Jayden's a friend, 'kay? And you don't like me listing it, baka maubos pa ang tinta ng ballpen."
If a cold breeze of air would come with this much confidence, baka lumipad na ako. Napakurap-kurap pa siya bago sumipol.
"Damn, confidence," he chuckled. "Gano'n karami ang bubulagin ko, misis?"
I smirked and shook my head.
"I think that's okay," tukoy ko sa noo niya. "It's late, you should be sleeping. I gotta go."
Ibinaba ko ang ice pack at inangat ang hita para umalis nang hinuli niya ang baywang ko pabalik sa kanya. Our chests collided and my chest burst when he buried his face in between my breast.
"Zion,"
"Sakit ng noo ko, Tish," he whined.
Worried, I reached for it, "sorry...saan ang masakit? What do you want me to do?"
"Kiss," he breathed and lifted his head, "dito, oh."
I placed a gentle kiss on his forehead, "there..."
"A-ah, dito pa, tumama rin kanina." He pointed his nose and I lowered my head to place another kiss when he pointed his jaw.
"Here, too," reklamo niya. "Na-dislocate ang panga ko no'ng nahulog. Nabawasan ng 0.01 percent ang kagwapuhan ko."
I snickered, "ang kapal talaga ng mukha!" I gave him another kiss on the jaw. "Ano, saan pa?"
"Dito," turo niya sa labi. Hinablot ko ang throw pillow sa couch at tinulak sa mukha niya.
He coughed and choked, trying to push it away but I was still having the time of my life. It only faded when he stopped fighting and his arms fell.
"The fuck?" I lowered the pillow and gasped when I saw his eyes closed.
"Zion," I called. "Zion Schauffer!"
I cupped his cheek, "are you—"
A loud gasp left my lips when he pulled me closer to him and pushed my head on his shoulder. Gumalaw ako para umalis pero sinakop ng braso niya ang likod ko at ikinulong ako sa kanya.
"Zion,"
"Five minutes," he breathed on my ear, caressing my back softly. "Just five minutes, hun. Please?"
I could protest but I still crave of his touches. I gave in and rested my head on his shoulder.
"Sorry," bulong niya.
"You don't—"
"Shh," he hushed, "let me, please? Will you listen?" Marahan niyang bulong.
Sa huli'y tumango ako at hinayaan siyang magsalita.
"Sorry for the words I've said," he started. "I didn't mean any of it. I was mad. I hated the fact I failed protecting my family again, my sister. Dad trusted me to protect our little princess and I failed him again. I failed myself. I failed everyone and I hated the fact that the woman I loved betrayed me."
I shut my eyes and listened.
"I hated the fact that you betrayed me and still be desperately in love. Nagagalit ako na makasarili ako at no'ng una pa lang ay dapat 'di na ako nahulog. Baka kung gano'n ay 'di napahamak si Twinkle but who the fuck am I kidding? I didn't fall in love again with you."
My heart crashed.
"It didn't just come back when it never faded, Tish," he whispered.
"I'm sorry because I didn't believe you. When I saw the CCTV and thought it was you, I was mad. This is not an excuse but my head's just...I'm desperate, Tish. They trusted me to take care of my sister, even after every failures I had but still, she was taken from me."
Unti-unti'y niyakap ko ang likod niya at mas idinantay ang ulo.
"They have sent me CCTVs of you in the warehouse, when my team got raided,"
"Sorry..." bulong ko. "It's my fault, I let it happen. I deserved your anger, Z-Zy. I did that for Wyatt not to doubt my intentions but it's wrong. It caused you your team. I'm selfish. Hindi ako galit sa 'yo. I deserved everything."
"You don't, honey," he said with finality. "Sometimes we have to sacrifice some things in order to protect the people we love. It's my fault my team got killed. I'm not a good leader. We went straight there without definitive plans. Umasa lang ako sa 'yo."
"Which you shouldn't,"
"But I still did," aniya. "You're my wife, of course, but it wasn't your fault. It's my call as the leader. I get to decide and I did it hastily. It was my fault, Tish. Not yours."
I don't believe him. I know it was. He just trusted me so much.
"I'm sorry for the things I said. I didn't mean it, not a thing. I am mad, I am desperate but that does not excuse my poor behavior. My judgments are clouded with anger and I lashed out on you. I looked for someone to blame because I couldn't accept it was my fault."
Natahimik kaming dalawa. Ipinikit ko ang mata at dinama ang haplos niya sa likod ko. He was making circles with his fingers then he'd caress my thigh softly while kissing my head.
"I'm sorry I failed you, too, Theia."
Doon na tuluyang nahulog ang luha ko.
"Sorry you had to sacrifice your whole life just to protect me. Sorry if I forgot about you. Sorry for not being there, w-when you needed me the most." When I heard his cries and felt the tremble of his body, I found myself tearing up again.
"That night, when you left and I saw your bike and the trail of blood, I was fucking scared." He hummed. "When you refused my help, I was hurt. When you want to die...I want to die with you."
"Zy..."
"What if I was too late to push that gun away? What will I do if you were gone? What will happen to me if I lose you again?" His voice trembled. "I can't do it, Tish. I-I forgot about you. Ang daming taong nasayang sa 'tin, p-paano kung tuluyan nang mawala? Paano kapag wala na?"
I sobbed and I poured my heart in it, accepting the fact that it's okay to be vulnerable because it was him. He understands me, he don't think it was weakness. He cries with me.
"If that bullet blew your head off, I'll shoot mine, too."
"Zion!" My voice sharpened, angry he was thinking of it.
"Mahal na mahal kita," he desperately said, "s-sana maniwala ka na mahal na mahal kita. Tish, 'd-di ko alam ang gagawin kapag nawala ka. Hindi ko alam kung kakayanin ko kapag umalis ka."
I fisted his shirt and buried my face in his neck.
"Let me make up to you. You aren't alone anymore, baby. You have me. You have Twinkle. Isama na rin natin si Meow-meow at baka magtampo."
I laughed and sniffed.
"We can share our worries, our pain. Our disappointments," aniya. "Lahat ng akin, sa 'yo. Lahat ng sakit na nararamdaman mo, aakuin ko. I know you grew up alone and independent. You don't have much of a support system as I did growing up but we're already married, Tish. You don't have to be alone. I'll be your support system, I'll be your partner. I'll be your family."
I have cried before but this one—it was in awe and amazement yet it was painful it physically ached me.
"I couldn't take back the pain I caused you," he whispered. "But I'm sure as hell won't give up trying to make it up to you."
"I-I can't give you anything, Zy."
"You are my everything, Bevurleigh," he kissed my cheek.
"But I-I don't know how to love,"
Mas lumalim ang paghinga niya at humigpit ang yakap sa katawan ko.
"You do," aniya. "H'wag kang maniwala sa 'kin. Gwapo ako, Tish, pero gago."
I smacked his back.
"Asshole."
"I sure am," he groaned. "I made myself believe you are just fooling me, that's why you were saying those words. I'm fucked in the head, too, Tish. Bagay na bagay talaga tayo."
I chuckled and pinched his back. Umalon ang katawan niya at paulit-ulit na hinalikan ang ulo ko.
"But if you still won't believe you can love—because of this asshole hugging you—let me teach you how to," bulong niya. "Love doesn't just equate words, baby. Love, it's something we feel within. It is caring and giving despite the shattered pieces."
"Like what you do. You keep on giving, not minding if anything was left for you. You give love, even without knowing it. Even with your shattered pieces. You gave anything you have and if that wasn't love—then, just kill me."
My lips protruded.
I sniffed, "m-makata ka ba, Sandejas?"
"Uh, hindi naman. Nabasa ko lang 'yong quotes sa Facebook—" when I smacked him hard on the back, ang lakas ng ubo niya na akala mo lalabas na ang baga.
He didn't let me leave.
He basically carried me, my legs wrapped on his waist and his arms supporting my ass and back towards the kitchen.
Pinagtitinginan kami ng mga kalat na tauhan ni Zion na labas-pasok sa bahay kahit dis-oras ng gabi na. They look shock seeing two deadly assassins in an embrace like tarsiers.
I don't care.
Isinubsob ko ang mukha sa leeg ng asawa at mas nagpabuhat.
"Ang baby kong damulag," natatawang bulong ni Zy sa 'kin.
"Fuck you,"
"I love you, too, honey," idinantay niya ang pang-upo ko sa stool bago inalis ang kamay ko sa batok niya.
"Ih!" I whined and glared, unti-unting hinanap ang mukha ko.
"As much as I want you clinging on me, I have to cook you foods."
Sumimangot ako at tumungo kaya nahulog ang buhok sa pisngi.
He laughed, "ang ganda ng Sadako ko," he caressed my cheek and kissed it briefly. "Anong gusto mong kainin, mahal?"
Umiling ako.
"I'm on diet,"
Nagsalubong ang kilay niya.
"No, you don't," he flicked my pouting lips. "You're getting thinner, Bevurleigh. You are eating. 'Di ka ba pinapakain doon sa tinutuluyan mo? Sinong kasama mo?"
"Jayden," I answered.
Sumama ang mukha niya.
"What?!" His voice roared.
Umirap ako at tinapik ang mukha niya paalis, "go on! Cook for me."
"Kasama mo si Jayden?" aniya na 'di maka-move on.
"Oo, he visits sometimes. I'm with Cl—"
"Kukunin natin ang ibang gamit mo do'n, uuwi ka rito."
"At bakit?" Tumikwas ang kilay ko. "Nagkabalikan na ba tayo?"
Umawang ang labi niya, "bakit? Naghiwalay ba tayo?"
I glared at him. He glared back. Sumakit na ang mata ko kaya ako na ang umirap at humalukipkip.
"Hindi pa tayo nagkakabalikan. Choosy ako," I smirked. "Ligawan mo muna 'ko."
I was waiting for his protest but it didn't came.
"Okay," he casually answered and leaned in. My breath hitched. Napaatras ako sa counter at mas inilapit niya ang katawan sa 'kin, ikinukulong ako sa braso niya.
My gaze fell on his parted lips. My stomach churned.
He leaned a little bit closer until our lips are an inch apart I could basically feel him breathing on my mouth. My eyes dilated when his lips moved for a ghost kiss I didn't know if it happened or just my imagination.
Umawang ang labi ko at inilapit ang mukha nang sa halip na labi ay ang daliri lang ang tumama sa bibig ko.
He grinned when he saw my face.
"Nah, choosy din ako, 'di ako nagpapahalik sa nililigawan." He purred.
My shoulders fell.
"Sagot first, laplap later," he smirked then turned his back.
Hinablot ko ang kutsilyo at hinagis sa kanya. He casually evaded it and waved before showing me his middle finger.
"Tang ina ka, Sandejas," I snarled.
"Ang lutong mo talagang magmahal, misis,"
His laughter roared and took his pan to cook in front of me.
I watch him closely while he does his thing. Kung anong kinatanga ko sa kusina, siya namang kinagaling niya.
What do I expect from a chef?
"Ang dami mo pa lang side lines, ano?" I asked, "what are you, bartender, DJ, cook...a military and what? Assassin?"
"Gano'n talaga, misis, kapag may binubuhay na pamilya." He shrugged nonchalantly while flipping the pan.
"My ass,"
"What about it?" He asked then grinned, "wanna get spank?"
Inambahan ko siyang hahagisan ng sandok na nakita ko counter kaya umatras siya at inangat ang kamay.
"Easy there, honey," aniya.
My stomach growled when the scent of his food attacked my nostrils.
"Faster, the monster here's starving," bulong ko sabay turo sa sikmura at pumahalumbaba.
His eyes softened, "Sabi na, eh. 'Di ka kumakain ng maayos, Mrs. Sandejas."
May kinulikot siya doon bago may inilapag sa counter sa harapan ko.
It was a piece of bread. My favorite. Egg and mayonnaise.
"Eat first, beautiful monster," he smirked, "mahirap na at baka ako ang makain mo."
Tumaas ang kilay ko, "bakit, ayaw mo ba?"
"P-p'wede?" He asked then cursed, "fuck!" He jumped.
Muntik na siyang mapaso ng pan nang hawakan niya ng walang basahan. I laughed.
"Maybe, siguro kapag sinagot na kita." Kinuha ko ang pagkain at kinagat, "'yon ay kung sasagutin kita."
The way his handsome face frown made me chuckle, he looks so offended but didn't say anything. Instead, may binilisan niya ang pagluluto no'ng beef steak niyang mabango at fried rice.
I watched him impatiently as he sprinkles some spices and whatever leaves in there.
"That's enough, Mr. Chef! My starving ass won't appreciate your pretty leaves."
He laughed then walked closer to me before presenting me the foods, even bowing a little when he saw my eyes shining.
"Your majesty," he teased.
My stomach growled harshly.
"Thanks," mabilis kong sabi sabay kuha ng pagkain at lumantak na.
I practically moaned when the food touched my tongue. Wala pa akong lunch at dinner! Super late midnight snack na 'to!
Zy went behind me and my smiles are hard to hide when he collected my hair and tied it up for a ponytail. He even lingered and kissed my nape, to the tips of my inked back before settling his chin on my shoulder.
"Sarap, hun?"
I hummed and resumed eating.
"Jackie's nothing, baby,"
Bitter taste spread on my mouth. I grimaced.
"Kitang kumakain ako rito?" I frowned, "respeto naman?"
He laughed then wrapped his arms on my waist.
"I cooked for the team last night," aniya. "It's a new recipe Dad taught me, hindi ako sigurado kung masarap kaya sumubok ako sa office. When I was sure it's okay and they gave me a go signal na masarap. I cooked another for you but you didn't take it so..."
My heart thumped.
"You cooked that for me?" I asked and tilted my head to look at his way.
"Hmm," he hummed and kissed my cheek, "and of course, Twila Klein. She liked it."
I nodded, "then why was she here? I was just asking, okay? It's not like I'm damn jealous or something—"
"Okay, sabi mo, eh."
I elbowed his stomach. He didn't even bulge.
"She went here last night just for that, it's weird," aniya.
My forehead creased, "just to thank you?"
"Yeah, 'yong sobra kasi pinauwi ko sa kanila. I'm sure she wanted to go in but..."
"You shouldn't," I shook my head.
"I won't," aniya. "We won't risk Twila again. No one gets inside the house but my family and you."
My temples throbbed.
"You think she's the traitor?" I asked at unti-unti siyang umalis sa likod ko para tumabi sa 'kin.
I took a spoonful of my meal and extended the food on his mouth. He smiled and ate it.
"Thanks, baby," kinuha niya ang baso ng juice at iginalaw ang straw para mainom ko.
"I'm not sure. I'm still investigating without them knowing. I'm taking a close eye to those employees around me. Including Jackie and Will."
Tumango ako, "no updates yet?"
"No," aniya. "But Jackie knew about the USB."
My jaw ticked, "the hell? How would she know?"
"That's what I'm worried about. No one knows about that but you, me, and Dad." He mentioned, "she opened up she knew someone who could help decrypt the files."
"I thought it was out now?"
"Not yet. Aside from what happened to you," my breath turned heavier. Bumalik ako sa pagkain. "There's a part of the drive with much advanced security even Dad couldn't access. My Uncle's working on it."
"Do you have any idea what's on it?"
"We're assuming it'll be your connection to the Italians," he explained. "They are hiding something from us—from you. They have a bounty on our heads, too, after knowing the drive's in our hands. It's a possibility they had turned their backs on him."
"My connection with the Italians?" I asked, "ako? I'm a nobody, Zy."
Sumimangot na naman siya, "you're not—"
"Shut it, honey. I mean me! I'm just Bullet, their killing machine!"
But he just look stunned. Lumiwanag ang mukha niya.
"Say it again,"
"I'm only Bullet, their killing machine?"
"No, the first one..."
Nangunot ang noo ko.
He opened his mouth, "the honey?" He smiled playfully.
"Oh, gosh," nasapo ko ang mukha, "sa lahat ng sinabi ko 'yon lang narinig mo?"
He smiled, "just one. Please, hun?"
I shook my head firmly. He pouted. Naglaban kami ng tingin, umungot siya at kinuha ang kamay ko para hawakan.
He stiffened when he saw my fingers and I was realized with the new wedding ring I had was our old one.
Hindi siya nagsalita. He only caressed my fingers and brought it on his lips for a soft kiss.
"They wanted to take you from me again," he said. "They have a bounty on my head, dead or alive but you? They wanted you alive, Tish. If that doesn't speak volume, then..."
"Why me?" I asked.
"Did you know any Italian royalties?"
I nodded, "saw some. Never spoken with one."
"What did you notice? With princess Guinevere of the Romanovs?"
"They had...amber eyes," nagkatinginan kaming dalawa.
"House of Kastrioti was aiming for you," aniya. "Heard nothing from the other houses but theirs. The house wasn't active because of their dispute with the House of Savoy where a lot of soldiers died, but they're attacking silently. We don't know who's leading now, that's the problem."
"Why?" I whispered. "I had nothing for them—aside from being the Duchess, of course. How did you know about all this? Royal houses are usually private."
"Zire," aniya. "She personally knew the former princess of Italy."
My eyes widened, "Princess Guinevere?"
He smirked and nodded, "yeah. You'll be amaze what my pretty sister could get her connections."
That was a flex. Wow. She knew the princess of Italy! I heard she's friends with her, too!
Hindi na ako nagpumilit umalis nang makita ang gaan sa itsura ni Zy. He was happy, that's for sure. He looks exhausted but the way his face lit when I didn't escape my way to leave was enough.
I can't break that happiness. Not when he was spreading it to me.
Habang naghuhugas siya ng pinggan ay umakyat ako. I visited Twila and Meow-meow first who was sleeping soundly before I went to the shower in change.
Tomorrow, I'll figure out what to do with my life. Wala naman sigurong masama kung pagbigyan ko ang sariling maging masaya kahit saglit lang?
Walang ilaw akong lumabas ng shower ng guest room, naglakad sa dilim papunta sa kama nang maramdaman ko ang mga matang nakatingin sa dilim.
Lifting my head, I locked gazes with my husband.
"Aswang ka ba?" I asked.
He smiled sheepishly and strode closer, catching my waist suddenly for a tight embrace. Oxygen almost knocked out my lungs but it was replaced with warmth.
"Bango," he sniffed on my neck. "Tutulog ka na, misis ko?"
"Obviously?" Hinanap ko ang orasan. "It's one a.m."
He yawned then a squeal left my lips when he moved away then carried me in a bridal way before depositing me on the bed.
I stared at him, wide-eyed. His blue orbs gaze at my amber ones as he lowered his head to kiss the tip of my nose.
"I'll court you," aniya.
Inabot ko ang pisngi niya, "and if I rejected you?"
"Then, I'll try again," his nose touched the itchy part of my cheek, "try and try until you succeed."
"Wouldn't it be a waste of time?"
"For you?" He shook his head, "it'll never be. You're worth it."
My heart was warm I felt it swarming down my stomach.
"Tulog ka na," aniya at inangat ang comforter sa katawan ko bago tumayo.
My heart crashed, "where are you going?"
"In our room," aniya. "Conservative kasi ako, misis. 'Di pa p'wede 'yong haplusan kapag ligawan."
Nawala ang kung anong nararamdaman at malakas ang tawa niya nang sumapok sa kanyang mukha ang unan na hinagis ko.
I showed him my middle finger. Sumampa siya sa kama at hinuli ng labi ang daliri ko.
My cheeks heated when he bit my finger and caged my wrist with his grip and opened his mouth to suck on my fingers, his eyes not straying with mine.
Bumilis ang paghinga ko. My other hand fisted the sheets as I let out a small whimper.
His jaw clenched and pulled my fingers from his mouth. I made a whiny sound.
"Damn, honey," he breathed and caught my jaw, "open your mouth."
I parted my lips.
"Suck my fingers," he commanded, "imagine it was my cock."
Fuck him.
Heat pooled down my core and I took his wrist, put his fingers on my mouth and started sucking. His eyes are heated with lust, mirroring mine.
Hindi ko inalis ang tingin sa kanya. I sucked his fingers, squirming, wanted so bad to reach for myself and play.
He noticed it and he slapped my hand away.
"No touching," utos niya.
I shook my head and pulled his fingers away.
"P-please? I'm...I don't have Franklin with me—"
"Fuck Franklin, I'm the husband," he groaned. "Open your legs, show me."
Gasping for air, I did. The night dress I'm wearing hitched, showing him my lacey thongs.
Nagmura siya at mas ibinaba ang tingin doon. I'm sure he could see the wet spot staining my underwear.
"Push it on the side," I followed, showing his my wet cunt.
"Fuck me," he whispered. "I'm courting you, Tish. Hindi ganito ang ginagawa ng nagliligawan."
Pero 'di naman siya umiiwas ng tingin.
"Coming from you?" I chuckled, "as if we didn't almost fuck while courting in college?"
"Bullshit," malutong niyang mura at napangisi na ako nang umupo siya sa kama at hinila ako. "Use me, Tish."
"What? Use you?"
"Fuck my fingers," aniya. "Make yourself come."
It was fucking hot and I didn't need to be told twice. Lumuhod ako sa kama kaharap siya at sumampa sa kanyang hita. I sat on his two fingers and groaned lustfully while using it to pleasure myself.
It was torture. For him, mostly.
He remained tight-lipped while I fuck his fingers and his dick can't. He didn't even touch me, he just watched me with lust on his eyes and his cock hard.
We're back all over college.
When I came, napasubsob ako sa balikat niya, naghahabol ng hininga.
"Thanks," I whispered.
He snorted, "why does that sound like you hired me as a prostitute?"
My laughter boomed.
He cleaned his fingers with his mouth before proceeding to clean me. When he said his goodbyes to sleep, I reached for a hand and stared at him softly.
"Stay?"
And he did.
He stayed. Someone stayed with me.
Nakahiga ako sa braso niya habang hinahaplos niya ang buhok ko at yakap-yakap ako.
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you about my eyes," I started.
"It wasn't a big deal," he whispered back. "But can I ask why did you hide it? If you're not comfortable of saying, I understand."
"No, it's okay," isinubsob ko ang mukha sa leeg niya. "Wyatt doesn't like my eyes to be seen. By anyone but him."
"Why?"
"I'm not sure. Since I was little, I was forced to wear something to hide my eyes. Maybe that was one of the reasons why I have a poor eyesight even at a young age. He was threatening me, if my eyes are seen, I'll be punished."
Napansin ko ang pagbigat ng paghinga niya.
"One day, I've completely forgotten. Someone saw my eyes. He found out, I was punished."
He inhaled and nod stiffly.
"Wyatt pricked my eyes. It was painful, I couldn't open it."
"Motherfucker!" His body trembled I could feel his rage vibrating. When he attempted to move, pinirmi ko siya.
"Shh..." I hushed, "a doctor came to check on me. He warned Wyatt not to do it again or I might get blind. He couldn't use me anymore if that happens, so he stopped."
He didn't answer but I could feel the way his body is tensing.
"Doon sa nakakita? If I remember it right, I found out he was killed a few hours from that. It was one of Wyatt's best goons. Hindi lang 'yon, his entire family was killed. Including his daughter, Theia Dominguez."
He stiffened.
Hinuli niya ang tingin ko, "is that?"
"H-hmm, he stole Theia's identity and gave it to me. Para makapasok ako sa college. That's when I met you..."
I was so embarrassed. I feel so bad to what happened to Theia and how I assumed her identity. I feel bad that I get to live and she didn't.
"Look at me, Bevurleigh," I sought for his gaze. "It wasn't your fault, okay?"
Kinagat ko ang labi.
"You are just a victim of that fucktard, okay? I'll kill him," he promised, "I swear to my life, Tish. He will fucking suffer."
"He touched you, your family. Twila." I said while staring at him. "I want to burn him alive."
"You will," he swore. "After I'm done torturing he'd only beg me to die, I will give him to you. If you want to burn him alive, you will. I promise you."
Maybe we're psychos. I couldn't explain how talking about Wyatt's torture and his demise, I feel relaxed. I feel alive.
Maybe murder runs in my veins, reason why it was singing with him. We were killers. Staining our palms with blood was child's play.
But killing Wyatt? It will be my grand scheme.
"Honey?"
"Hmm?"
"Talk to me," he hummed, "I can't sleep."
"How did you know it was amber?" I opened up, still not sleepy.
Pareho lang ata kaming ayaw matulog, parehong takot na baka lahat ng ito'y panaginip. Na baka pagmulat kinabukasan, wala na ang isa't-isa.
"Why not?"
"It's almost light brown," I said. "Sometimes I mistake it with that. Kahit sina Jay at Clau, no'ng nakita nila akala nila light brown. They only realized it was a different shade when they saw it in daylight."
"I love staring at Twinkle's eyes," he hummed. "It's beautiful. I'm obsessed with her eyes. The way it sharpens when I steal her foods, the way it glints when she smiles. I don't know how exactly, I just love that kid to the bones."
"Same," I chuckled. "I was shocked when I saw her eyes, too. It reminded me of mine I have long forgotten I had. Puro brown o kaya itim lang kasi ang nakikita ko sa salamin kapag tumitingin ako."
"I always wonder what your eye color could be. I was convinced it was a lighter brown because of the rims around your contacts. Sometimes, it reminds me of my sister."
"Can I ask a question, Zy?"
"Go on,"
"Why is Twinkle's eyes...I mean, you know?" His shoulder squared. "You don't have to tell me if you don't want to. I understand."
"No, it's okay. I just hate remembering how she got to us."
My heart stopped. Lumayo ako at hinanap ang mata niya.
"How so?"
"During those times, Sibyl was injured. Her accident, ballet." Tumango ako. "Pabalik-balik kami sa ibang bansa at dito sa Pilipinas para sa therapy niya. It took us months, eight? Nine or so. It was the hardest time in our lives, Sibyl wanted to give up."
"Sorry," hinaplos ko ang pisngi niya.
Umiling siya at inabot ang palad ko para hagkan.
"You don't have to apologize, Sibyl was better now. She was happily married and dancing again. During those times, we're just doomed. It was dark and sad. Trauma after trauma and then my parents are in missions with DEA. To think that they rarely go to one, unless needed."
"Wyatt's?"
"I think so, they won't say. Ang alam ko lang, it was an Italian headquarters. Possibly Wyatt's drug den, I was in States with Sib that time when Dad called. Pinapauwi ako at si Zire. Sibyl found out and she went home with us, too. They instructed us to go to the hospital."
I nodded.
"That's when we met Twinkle."
My mouth parted, "you mean...she wasn't your biological sister?"
He stiffened and nod, "she's our real sister. Here." He pointed his chest.
"O-oh, that's why she had different eyes." I hummed, "what happened? Paano siya napunta sa inyo?"
"Dad won't tell us the whole story, just that, he had rescued a baby in a headquarters He said, the woman begged to take care of the child, to treat her like their own. That she trusted our family to be good to the kid."
Habang sinasabi niya 'yon, nangingilid ang luha ko.
"Was it her child?"
He looks confused, too.
"I don't know the whole story. Dad was secretive. Very rare to see him like that. But I overheard when he and Mom were talking, it was the lady's sister. Dad's words. But that's not certain, just assuming. Dad said she was terrified and panicking someone might see her handling a baby."
"A-and? The lady?" My voice broke.
"Gone," a haunted look passed his eyes. "When Dad came back to rescue her, the place was burned into ashes. No one was left inside. Most probably, the lady died. I can't help him in tracing her because he never told us her face. Not even Mom."
I bit my tongue to process the information.
"Twila Klein was her name. Dad introduced. She was a preemie. She was so small. Like if I touch her, she'll break." His eyes watered. "She was sensitive and spent a lot of time in NICU."
My baby Twila...
"When I first saw her, I fell in love. I immediately swore I'd protect her with my life."
Nahulog ang puso ko at 'di ko na napigilan ang luha nang kumawala sa mga mata. Zy reached for my cheek.
"Shh...she's fine now," aniya. "She's healthy, you see. Very talkative and smart. She grew up happily. We made sure of that."
"I-I don't know," I cried. "I-I'm sorry...I don't know it was like that."
"Shh," he whispered and pulled me closer to him until he's hugging me. "Twinkle was the light in our darkest times. I hope she will be—in yours."
I fell asleep with my head on his arms. Nagising lang ako ng madaling araw nang maramdaman ang maliliit na yapak at ang hila sa kumot sa paahan.
Without pulling away from Zy's arms, I opened my eyes a little and almost cackle when I realized it was Twinkle!
In her terno strawberry sleepwear, her messy hair and those determine amber eyes.
She was a literal ball of sunshine. Bilog na bilog.
Gumapang siya paakyat sa kama, hawak pa ang paboritong laruan. She let go of her toy, nakasimangot habang nakatitig kay Zion na nakapulupot sa akin.
Pouting, she knelt on the bed and forcefully inserted herself in between us.
'Di siya magkasya.
"Hmp!" She grimaced then stood, placing both her arms on her waist, her tummy protruding out of her top.
She looks so healthy. There are flush colors of red staining her cheek. Her eyes are alive.
They really took care of her, treated her like their own. They protected her from enemies.
She repeated her steps but still, a failure. That's when she subjected to violence.
She kicked her brother.
"Uy, pangit! Wake up ka nga!" She hissed in a tiny voice.
Zy stirred and opened her eyes, "morning, princess."
"Bakit mo niyayakap ang Ate ko po?!" She exclaimed.
Zy stiffened then when he realized I was there, he stared briefly for a moment and even closed his eyes like he couldn't believe what he's seeing.
"Can you see Ate Bullet, Twinkle?" He asked.
"Ah? Opo?" She answered. "Why? 'Di mo siya kikita? Blind ba ikaw?"
"Ang iingay," I yawned. Napatingin sila sa 'kin.
"Ate!" Twila squealed and jumped at me.
"Hi, darling!" Chuckling, I caught her. Napahiga ako sa kama nang puluputan niya ako, ang braso ay nasa leeg ko habang ang maliliit na paa ay nakadantay sa 'kin.
"Mworning po, Ate!" She said happily.
"Morning, sweetheart," I kissed her forehead. "Did you sleep well?"
"Hmm! Sweet sweet dreams!" She exclaimed.
"Bakit kapag si Ate may po? Si Kuya wala? 'Di mo na 'ko love, princess?"
"Hmm..." she moved and peek at him, "think ko pa muna."
His mouth parted. I laughed.
Muli akong binalingan ni Twinkle at nakita ko ang pamimilog ng mata niya nang makita ang akin.
"OMG!" She gasped, "eyes! Eyes! Cover! Kita ni pangit!"
"What? You knew, Twila Klein?" Zy looks so offended.
"Hmm! Because spy secret only! Bawal ang pangit! Pwetty girls only!" She fought that I can't help but giggle with their banter.
Zy didn't let us go and asked us to wait for our breakfast in bed kaya nagkwentuhan lang kami ni Twila sa kama. My heart feels so full, listening to her unstoppable babbling after knowing what she went through as a baby.
It was disheartening, for someone to give their love one at other people for safety and I am happy Twila found my husband, the Sandejas'.
When Zy came back, he had breakfast for the both of us and a two pieces of flowers he probably plucked somewhere in the garden. One for me, one for Twinkle.
Tahimik akong kumain habang pinapanuod ang dalawang nagtatalo. Zy noticed my watchful eyes and silence that he began joking with his dry humor again.
"Sa mga love confession wall, 'yong message kay crush. Bakit sticky notes ang ginagamit?"
"Bakit?!" Twinkle asked happily.
"Kasi i-dedicate," humagalpak siya ng tawa. My lips won't twitch.
Twinkle was the same. Nawala ang ngiti ni Zy.
"Ang hirap n'yo namang pasayahin!"
I smirked. Natahimik siya at nag-isip.
"Misis, may joke pa ako,"
"Tama na!" Tinakpan ko na ang tainga. Twinkle did the same.
He laughed, "isa pa! Dali!"
"No! My ears are bleeding!"
"Sige na!" Nang sapilitang tinanggal niya ang kamay sa tainga ko'y wala na akong choice. Pinilit niya rin ang bulilit na makinig.
"Bakit may black eye 'yong juice?"
Napaisip ako. Twinkle touched her chin.
"Bakit?"
"Kasi nasa pack siya," he said smoothly.
Twinkle laughed loudly na nag-apir sila ni Zy pa, tawang-tawa.
"Nasa pack si juice!" She cackled. "May black eye!"
I bit my lip to stop my smiles. It was funny but when Twinkle saw I wasn't laughing, her smile vanished. Bigla niyang sinapak ang kuya na natulala.
"W-what?"
"'Di naman funny, eh! Corny ba ikaw?" She asked.
Zy made a face and glanced my way, "ang hirap mo namang pasayahin, misis?"
"It wasn't funny," I teased.
"Makapagsalita 'to, sige nga, ikaw! 'Di ka naman marunong, baka nga mas corny ka pa sa 'kin—"
"Anong hayop ang pangit?" I asked.
Napaisip siya, "ano?"
"Cow," I said with a straight face and sipped on my juice. His jaw slacked.
"Ohhh! Ewmotional damage!" Twinkle exclaimed and when Zy rolled out of the bed, tulala, napahagalpak ako ng tawa. Pumasok tuloy ang juice sa ilong ko.
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