Kabanata 26 (Part One)
Kabanata 26 (Part One)
.·:*¨༺ ༻¨*:·.
ZION
"Are you sure about this, Zy?" Siniko ako ni Macky.
I glanced his way and nodded, biting my lip nervously.
"Yeah," I answered. "She'll be out of her class in five minutes."
He nodded. Sinenyasan niya ang ibang pinsan kaya inihanda ko ang bouquet na hawak ko habang inaantay siya.
A surprise for my girl, Theia. I'm gonna ask her to be my girlfriend now.
Pinagtitinginan na kami sa quadrangle ng university. I had a hard time asking for permission to the dean to let me make my surprise in here. 'Di siya pumayag pero susuko ba 'ko?
'Di ako pinalaki ni Daddy pogi na mabilis sumuko kaya binantayan ko ang schedule niya ng tatlong linggo! When I found out he's out every Thursdays, I decided na do'n gawin ang surprise ko.
Walang makakapigil sa 'kin!
Sibyl appeared and gave me a bored look.
"The Dean's gonna kill you for this, Kuya," she drawled.
"Patay agad?" I smirked, "detention lang naman, princess. Don't worry, 'di ko naman first time. Sarap kaya matulog sa loob, may aircon."
The first time was when I was caught snoozing during Statistics class. The second time was when I plucked some flowers from the garden. Santan lang naman 'yon! Tatlong piraso para I love you. Tapos binigay ko kay Theia.
Madami pa namang natira! Ang dadamot!
The most recent was when I punched fucking bastards faces when I caught them making fun of my girl. I saw them laughing at the photo of her in the library while reviewing, nakatungo at nakatago ang mukha sa buhok.
They said she looked like a library ghost. Sinapak ko tuloy.
Mom was pissed. Ginagawa ko na raw pasyalan ang office.
Dad was proud when I told him I punched them because they made fun of my woman.
She made a face, "anything for your girl, hmm?"
I smirked.
"Malas naman niya, ikaw nagkagusto sa kanya," she spat. When my shoulders slacked, kumislap ang mata niya.
I pulled her for a hug, "grabe ka naman, Sibyl Timothea! Ang sakit mo!" I messed with her hair while she was chuckling.
I felt her hugged me back, "kailan mo papakilala sa bahay, Kuya?" Inangat niya ang tingin.
Her eyes sparkled, reminding me of my Mom. They look so alike.
Hindi ako nakasagot kaagad doon.
The truth was, I wanted to introduce her to my family and cousins. Kahit manliligaw pa lang ako. I wanted to formally tell them I am setting my eyes at someone amazing but Theia didn't want to.
I asked if she's comfortable meeting my family. She said she wasn't ready.
I respect that...but sometimes I wish I could be out on a date with her freely, take her in family gatherings. I just want any time possible to be with her. All the damn time.
"Next time, princess," I gave her a small smile.
"Hmm, you sure 'bout her?" She asked, "I can barely see her face, you know."
I grinned.
"Shy kasi siya, Sib,"
"Oh, I see. Bakit ka kaya niya nagustuhan, eh, magkabaligtad kayo?"
My brows shot up, "you were saying...?"
"Na she's mahiyaan tapos makapal mukha mo," when my face fell, I heard the couple of ooohhhs from my cousins who heard it.
Tinulak ko ng pabiro si Sib at madramang hinawakan ang dibdib.
"Sakit-sakit mo na, Sibyl Timothea! Tama ka na!" But she was already laughing, my heart bounced happily. Seeing how happiness dances on her eyes.
May umakbay sa 'kin kaya nawala ang atensyon ko sa kapatid at napunta kay Chiel-taba na pasimpleng bumulong.
"Wala nang matitira sa surprise mo," aniya.
"Why?"
"Zire," he whispered and I never whipped my head that fast to just catch my youngest sister, Zire, in the act of taking my chocolates.
"Zirena Nieves!" I hissed.
She stiffened and hid the chocolates on her back, her eyes widening like she just committed a crime against humanity.
"Hihingi lang, eh! Bakit ka madamot? Parang pagkain lang?!" She exclaimed.
Napakamot ako sa kilay, "binigyan na kita, ah! Isang plastic 'yon kasama 'yong gummy bears mo tapos pupuslit ka pa-"
But she only took another chocolate bar and already running away like a criminal.
Nagtawanan ang mga pinsan. Bumusangot ako.
Sib shook her head, "she's taking her revenge, kinain mo raw 'yong tinatago niyang donuts sa ref kahapon."
"Oh, tatlong araw na 'yon do'n, ah? Walang kumakain! Malay ko bang-"
"Nire-reserve niya kasi para ngayon! Masiba ka kasi, akala mo 'di ko alam na pabalik-balik kayo ni Dad sa ref para titigan ang donut?" She made a face.
My shoulders fell and mentally counted the chocolate bars left.
Tatlo na lang.
Hayaan mo na, I love you ibig sabihin n'yan!
Tatakaw kasi ng mga anak mo, Zeijan Ruais!
I can see people walking past our set up with confusion and surprise. I even overheard them asking who was I planning to make this grand gesture for and when they found out I have my eyes set for Theia, I can almost hear the grunts and disapprovals.
I frowned but didn't let it get to me.
I'm pissed, alright? No one talks about my girl that way but I'm not here to make a scene. I just want to surprise Theia. Sa susunod na raw na ako makikipag-wrestling sa mga tarantadong 'to.
"You're whipped, man," ani ng mga pinsan. "You should introduce her to us."
Ngumisi lang ako at humigpit ang hawak sa bulaklak.
I would try to convince her about joining us tonight. We're planning for a hang out and I'd love her to join, para maipakilala ko kahit man lang sa mga kapatid.
I want them to recognize her, to smile at her when she walked passed them. I want her to have friends because other than me? Hindi ko kailanman nakitang may kasama siyang kaibigan o kahit sino.
It's either me or no one else.
As much as I am protective and possessive of her, I would love to see her bond with my family. To have more people for her. Gusto ko siyang ipakikilala kina Macky-beybe, ipagkakalat ko lang na 'di na siya ang legal wife ko.
Isa na lang siyang kabit.
Anyway, I'm sure my parents would love her. Dad would be thrilled since he found out I've set my eyes on someone. Parehas kasi ng ugali niya ang Mommy at si Sib. Siguro akong magkakasundo silang tatlo.
"Nand'yan na, dali! Nand'yan na raw!" The commotion started as my heart raced.
Mula sa p'westo ay kita ko ang pagbaba ni Theia sa hagdan, yakap ang libro at nakatago ang mukha sa pagkakatungo niya. The strands of her black hair covered almost the entirety of her face. Sometimes, I'm worried she'll tripped and fell.
Sinabi ko nga minsan sa kanya na kung tamad siyang magtali, ako na lang ang mag-iipit sa kanya. She just grimaced and stole my ponytail again, slipping it on her wrist.
Hinayaan ko na. Maganda ang mahal ko pero minsan nagiging dragon.
I remembered last week when she got jealous-which she denied-I was almost stabbed with a pen. I fought with her with...a ruler. Nasa library kami no'n.
The angry Theia was fucking hot. I couldn't even explain the thrill I feel everytime she'll threaten she'd slit my throat or whatever she wanted to do even if I'm not sure it'll happen.
Her, threatening me with a knife or a gun. That would be fucking hot.
I don't mind, though. I'd happily bare my throat for her.
"Ayan na, galingan mo! H'wag kang pumiyok para naman worth it 'yong irita ko sa birit mo t'wing umaga!" Sibyl hissed at me.
My heart raced. Crest squealed and punched Chiel's arm.
Ayan na...malapit na siya!
Bumuntonghininga ako.
"Okay na?" ani Chiel na inangat ang gitara niya kaya tumango na ako at sa paghakbang ni Theia ay tumikhim ako't nagsimula na ang pagtugtog ng gitara ni Chiel.
Adik sa 'yo, awit sa akin
Nilang sawa na sa 'king mga kwentong marathon
I started fucking singing. Theia's shoulder stiffened and lifted her head, her eyes widening upon seeing me in the microphone with the flowers on my other arm.
Sa umaga't sa gabi
Sa bawat minutong lumilipas
Hinahanap-hanap kita...
I winked. She gasped and covered her mouth.
Ang galing ko, 'no, hon? I asked her with my gaze.
Ngumuso siya at tinaasan ako ng kilay. Mukhang nahihiya para sa 'kin.
She shouldn't!
I'm confident with my voice. Why? I rehearsed for damn days! Maraming salamat din sa Kitchie Nadal Medley ko kahit sa banyo at nahasa ng tunay ang golden voice ko.
P'wede na siguro ako lumaban bilang Asia's song bird.
Not to forget, special mention kay Daddy Pogi na ipinamana sa amin ang talentong ito.
Hinahanap-hanap kita...
My cousin strummed his guitar more and as the tune filled the quadrangle, mas dumami ang tao at sumisilip sa amin doon. Her face flushed while staring at me in between the strands of her hair.
I smirked and walked closer to her, tilting my head to take a peek in between the strands.
"Hi, honey," inilayo ko ang mic para ibulong iyon sa kanya.
"What..." she gasped, "what the hell, Zy?"
I shrugged and continued singing while standing in front of her, letting everyone know this girl is mine.
My cousins fully supported me in this kaya nang marinig ko ang huling strum ng gitara ni Chiel at matapos ang kanta ay ibinaba ko ang microphone at ngumiti.
"Wala na, hon, na-expose na ang hidden talent ko sa lahat. H'wag mo 'kong ma-miss kapag may kumuha na sa 'king talent scout, ah?"
Blushing, she bit her lip and laughed lowly.
"A-asshole, you...made this? Why? I mean...bakit?" She asked, only the two of us could hear.
"Because I want to," I said and smiled nervously. "Surprise! Did you like it?"
Hindi siya umimik. My heart raced.
I don't care what people watching would say. What matters for me was her reaction. Did she like it?
"Why did you do that?" She asked in a hush voice. "Ang daming tao, oh? 'Di ka ba nahihiya?"
"Ako, mahihiya? Sa gwapo kong 'to?" Natawa pa 'ko. She gave me a look. I zipped my mouth.
"So?"
"Hmm? Because I love you," I whispered, lifting my hand to brush some stray strands off her beautiful face.
She gulped and moved away a bit kaya 'di ko nagawang alisin ang buhok sa mukha, "'yong totoo, Sandejas."
"That's the truth," I told her, aware of people watching. "And here..." I extended her the flowers.
She glanced at it then observed, nang abutin niya ang bulaklak ay mas ninerbyos lang ako.
Tumikhim ako at mas dumoble ang kaba nang wala siyang sinasabi.
Did I fucked up my performance? Ayaw ba niya? Pangit? Pumiyok ba ako?
"And also," agap ko. "I wanted to ask if you'd like to be my girlfriend."
She stiffened. Mas lumakas ang bulungan sa paligid kaya nagsalubong ang kilay ko. When I saw students started taking pictures, iniharang ko ang katawan kay Theia para 'di siya makuhaan ng maayos.
Fucking hell?
The expression on my girl's face changed. It alarmed me.
"Sorry," I sighed and covered her more, "I didn't thought they'll take photos-"
"No," tila binuhusan ako ng malamig na tubig pagkarinig no'n.
Ibinaba ko ang tingin sa kanya.
"Hun?" I asked, making sure if I heard it right.
"No," she repeated, lifting her face to look at me directly.
"I don't like you that way, Zy. I'm sorry." She said coldly, her eyes are blank.
Sumikip ang dibdib ko at bago pa ako makapagsalita'y inihulog niya ang bulaklak, tumalikod at tumatakbo na siya papalayo sa 'kin.
I was shocked. At the same time, confused.
Umugong ang malakas na usapan sa lugar, halo ang dismaya at tawanan.
"Ang kapal naman ng mukha! Si Zion na 'yan, akala mo naman kagandahan?!" My jaw clenched as my head shifted to the group of girls laughing.
Nasalubong ko ang tingin ni Jackie na napawi ang ngiti pagkakita ng tingin ko.
I took a step forward to confront them when pair of hands stopped my arm from going.
"Zy," I heard Macky, "don't mind them. Let's go. We're making a scene."
My jaw clenched and glanced at the exit, "I'll go after her-"
"No," Deion appeared and shook his head, "let her think first. Come on."
My cousins didn't take my rejection seriously that the pressure subsided after a while.
She rejected me. She didn't want me anymore?
But...I thought we liked each other. We had a mutual understanding.
"Maybe she's pressured," ani Macky sa tabi ko nang makarating kami sa hang out place ngayong gabi. Sa labas ng resto kami tumambay para 'di makaistorbo at maingay ang grupo namin.
Hindi ako umimik at tahimik na tumitig sa mga pinsan na nagtatawanan. Most of them didn't know my escapades and rejection earlier which is good, I guess.
But still...I have to find her and talk.
"Paanong pressure?"
"You made a grand gesture, Zy," ani Dei na tinitigan pa ako. "Not everyone was comfortable with it and observing Theia, she's aloof of people. I don't think she likes public's attention kagaya no'ng nangyari kanina."
I stiffened.
Why the hell did I not think of it?
Of course she didn't want attention! Damn it, Zy! Ang tanga mo!
I touched my jaw, thinking, recuperating.
"What if she's not?" ani naman ni Chiel. "What if ayaw lang talaga? It's her choice, if she didn't like you...well, we really can't do anything, right?"
Mas natahimik ako.
May point sila.
What if Theia's just tolerating my whims? What if she didn't like me that much? Am I a fling to her? Kasi ako...hindi.
"What if she just didn't like me?" I asked them, repeating Chiel's words. "What if she's genuine? That she just don't feel the same?"
"Kaya nga tatanungin mo," ani Sib na lumitaw. "Are you really serious with that girl?"
Hindi ako umimik at isinandal ang likod sa upuan. I sipped on my beer.
"Obviously, he was," ani Crest na ngumiti kay Sib. "Baliw 'tong Kuya mo pero I don't think he'd make gestures like that for no one, right?"
I sighed.
"It's fine," I just said and drank again.
I kept on texting and calling her, I was rejected.
My chest felt heavy, hearing the rejection ringing in my head again and again but Deion had a point. Maybe she was pressured, not used to public's attention that she had to reject me.
Or maybe she just didn't want me, anymore.
Am I becoming unbearable? Should I be quiet like my cousins? Should I not ran my mouth like a fucking train track? Para 'di na ako maingay?
'Di kaya naririndi lang siya sa 'kin kaya ayaw na niya?
My calls were rejected all over again.
What if...she liked someone else?
Bitterness spread on my mouth. Inisang inom ko ang beer.
"Ikaw, Zire, anong tipo mo sa lalaki?" Daru asked my sister.
Tumaas ang kilay ko at natigil sa pagmo-moment.
Ano raw?
"Kahit ano basta kaya akong bigyan ng gummy bears," tawa ng kapatid.
"Pero ano, s'yempre 'yong gentleman? Kasi dalagang Filipina ako, eh." Pahabol pa niya at inilagay ang tikwas ng buhok sa likod ng tainga. Scira and Daru high-fived.
Mas tumikwas ang kilay ko.
Ang babata pa ng mga 'to?!
"Hoy, narinig ko, anong tipo-tipo 'yan?" Agaw ko sa atensyon nila. Natahimik sila.
Deion glanced at them curiously with his hawk eyes, si Macky na kakaupo lang din ay napabaling sa amin kaya natigilan ang tatlo.
"May boyfriend na kayo? Aba, bawal 'yan-" I lectured.
Anong boyfriend-boyfriend? Bawal pa!
Tumayo ako at namaywang sa kanila para ipaliwanag ang sampung utos ni Daddy Pogi sa pagbo-boyfriend nang hinila ako ni Sib. Napaupo ako.
"Pagpasensyahan n'yo na..." Sibyl smirked a bit.
We watched the girls seriously. They shook their heads innocently.
I eyed Zirena intently. Tumigil siya sa pag-nguya ng gummy bears niya at pinanlakihan ako ng mata para ata itanong kung anong tinitingin-tingin ko.
I grimaced.
"Hindi, bawal pa nga mag-boyfriend, sumbong kita Zirena kay Daddy Pogi-"
"Ganyan ba epekto nang nabasted, Zy?" biglang humagalpak si Chiel kaya humaba ang nguso ko at iritado siyang nilingon.
Mas nagtawanan sila, miski ang mga babae.
Pinagkakaisahan ako?! Kitang brokenhearted? Mga walang puso?!
Anong klase kayong pinsan? Parang 'di pamilya!
I closed my eyes, quite drunk.
"Sinong na-basted? Walang nabasted dito!" laban ko. "Sa gwapo kong 'to-"
"Come on, Kuya, why don't you just beg her to take you?" ani Sibyl. "Madami pa namang girls but if you want her, then ask for her."
"Why would I beg?" I asked.
No. I don't beg!
"S'yempre, tungaw, gusto mo siya." Ani Macky-beybe.
Natawa ako sabay tayo with determination.
"I won't beg! Because to beg is water..." I grinned, rolled my hips playfully while lifting the glass of beer as I drink it in one gulp. They laughed.
Begging my ass. To hell with begging-
"Hun, please," I sniffed as I placed my forehead on her door. "T-talk to me, please."
Saan ako magaling? Ang kainin ang mga sinasabi. Ang sarap. Lasang tanga.
Papauwi na dapat kami pero 'di ako natuloy nang magsabi akong may pupuntahan. They couldn't stop me when I just vanished in thin air and I found myself in front of Theia's house.
"Hun?" I called again, resting my head on the door but I heard no response.
"Are you here, baby?" Kumatok ako, "can I get inside? Usap lang tayo...'di naman ako galit. I understand if you don't love me or you're not ready to be my girlfriend yet. I respect that."
Sumulyap ako sa bintana niya at walang ilaw doon.
Is she home yet?
My eyes are quite blurry but I messaged her, asking her where she was or if she's home. Wala akong reply na natanggap.
I called her and my ears rang when I heard a faint vibrate from the inside of the house.
She was here. But obviously, she didn't want to see me.
Sinuklay ko ang buhok at lumapit muli sa pinto.
"You should eat, hun," I said. "H'wag kang papagutom. I understand and sorry for doing that earlier. I'm sorry I didn't consider your feelings about the public courting. I know you're pressured. I'm sorry."
Walang sagot.
Mas idinantay ko ang ulo sa pintuan.
"I-I brought you the flowers and nag-take out ako ng pagkain sa resto, kasama ko mga pinsan ko kanina. Kumain kami," I said and glanced at the paper bag on my hand.
I wasn't even sure why I bought take outs before I even decided I'd go see her. Maybe, unconsciously, I knew it was for her.
Naupo ako sa gilid ng pintuan niya, sa labas ng bahay, sa gitna ng gabi at lamig. It was cold but yeah, I think it's a good thing I got a bit drunk at mainit ang pakiramdam.
Sighing, I closed my eyes.
"I'll put this here, baby," I said loudly. "Kahit 'di mo na kunin 'yong bulaklak, ayos lang. Basta 'yong pagkain kunin mo, hindi ka pa nagla-lunch. I'll...rest for a while and leave."
But I fucking fell asleep.
Napatalon ako pagkagising nang makitang may araw nang tumatama sa mukha ko at mabilis na napatayo pero natigilan nang may nahulog sa katawan ko.
Confused, I looked for it and realized I was covered in blanket earlier.
Blanket...
From her?
Bumaling ako sa inilagay ko sa pintuan niya. Wala na roon ang bulaklak at ang pagkain.
Gumaan ang pakiramdam ko.
She ate. Good.
Tinupi ko ang kumot bago muling hinarap ang pintuan niya.
"Thank you for the blanket, hun," I called. "I'll leave first to change for school. See you at campus?"
No response.
I sighed.
"I gotta go. I love you."
I left but the whole day, Theia wasn't there. Patuloy pa rin ang mga usap-usapan sa rejection ko mula sa kanya pero walang nagtatangkang tanungin ako roon.
Hell, subukan nila at alam naman nila ang nangyari kay Jun-jun last week, pinatalsik ko ngipin no'ng gago no'ng narinig kong balak nilang pagtripan ang Theia ko.
Fucking bastards.
Pinatawag ako sa office, pinagsabihan ni Dean pero hindi pinatapon sa detention. Maybe for sympathy but I'd rather be in the detention than to stare at her chair empty beside me.
I texted her, asking. Walang reply.
Umuwi ako para muling magluto ng hapunan nang maabutan ako ni Sibyl. She's still on her tutu and ballerina clothes. Nakapusod ang buhok at naglalakad patungo sa 'kin.
"Saan ka, Kuya?"
"May pupuntahan lang, princess," ngiti ko at tinuro ang lamesa. "I cooked foods, pasabi na rin pag-uwi nina Mommy at Dad na may pagkain na. Si Zire, nasaan?"
"Na kina Scira," aniya. "Nagbo-boy hunting ata."
Frowning, I shook my head.
"Ang bata-bata pa puro crush na! Ikaw ba, Sib, may crush ka?"
She shook her head, "men sucks."
I ended up laughing, "paano naman si Kuya?"
"You're weird but fine," aniya sa akin. "S'yempre you, our Dad and family are an exception."
I offered her my arm and she bounced, smiling sweetly as she hugged me tight.
"Sinusuyo mo pa rin, hmm?" She whispered.
Ipinatong ko ang baba sa ulo niya.
"Mahal ko, eh," I answered. "You just don't give up to things you love, right?"
She hummed, "hmm...I don't think I'll ever accept if one day I have to quit ballet."
"Oh, you won't, pretty ghourl." I said, "I'm sure you are still dancing hanggang sa may rayuma ka na."
She laughed loudly. It was music to my ears.
"She's lucky to have you," aniya. "I hope someday I'll have a husband as good as you and Daddy."
Lumambot ang puso ko.
"I'm sure you will, princess," I assured. "Dad and I will assure you the man you and Zire will marry is no one but the best. 'Yong pasok sa standards namin atsaka s'yempre, 'yong perfect sana at gwapo."
She laughed.
"Kahit weirdo ka, alam ko namang mabuti kang tao, Kuya," aniya.
"Mabuti atsaka...?"
"May kasunod pa?" She asked. I pouted.
"Fine, gwapo!" She exclaimed.
I grinned and kissed her head, "I love you, pretty ghourl. I promise I'll protect you, Zire and our whole perfect family."
"Promise?" She whispered.
"Promise," I said with finality.
For days, I went back and forth to my girl's house with the meals I'm cooking for her. Alam ko kasi ang ugali nito, she would be satisfied with her bread, eggs and mayonnaise and although it tasted good, hindi 'yon sapat para sa kanya.
I hate seeing her so skinny and starving again. Kaya kahit 'di niya ako hinaharap, inaaraw-araw ko ang pagpunta sa kanya para maghatid ng pagkain.
Luckily, she was eating it. Nga lang, hindi na siya pumasok pang muli sa university.
It went on for days and I'm fucking worried. Hindi ko sinabi sa mga pinsan ang tungkol sa kanya kahit alam kong curious na rin sila sa pananahimik ko.
I texted her again while I was outside her door one day when I delivered her lunch for the day and knew she wasn't home. I could feel the cold presence around, telling me she wasn't here.
I skipped class and waited the whole day and at midnight, I received a message from her.
From: Honey Theia🥰
I'm fine. Leave me alone.
Frowning, I decided to call her but my phone number was already blocked. Hindi sana ako aalis at aantayin siya buong araw sa kanila nang maka-receive ako ng tawag kay Dad para sa emergency meeting sa bahay.
He said there is an ongoing crisis in DEA and the Intelligence. That I should be extra careful these days at baka hindi namin mapansin na inaatake na kami ng kalaban.
He might be right. Because the next day, at school. I felt like an invisible presence was watching me.
It was alarming at the same time, comforting.
But how? How could you be comfortable of someone watching you from the back?
I checked my gun as I rode in my sports car to go somewhere else. Hindi muna ako pupunta sa bahay ni Theia ngayong gabi, won't risk letting these people know I care for someone.
They're gonna use her against me. No one gets to touch my girl. She should never get in danger.
While driving, I noticed a bike following me. Hindi ko makita ang mukha ng nakasunod dahil nasa likod ko lang at pilit nagtatago sa akin.
The person tailing me was in full helmet that I couldn't see him closely. Umiiwas siya sa side mirror at nakikihalo sa mga ibang rider pero alam ko kung ano ang bike niya.
I squinted my eyes and suddenly realized it's a she.
A woman riding a bike. Following me.
What the fuck?
It was a bit late. Maluwag ang kalsada at wala masyadong sasakyan.
I quickly maneuvered the car, put it on reverse before moving the steering wheel for a full round and changed direction.
It was so sudden no one is prepared. Pinaharurot ko ang sasakyan na papabalik na sa pinanggalingan ko kanina at nang sumulyap ako sa side mirror ay nakita ko ang pag-iba rin ng direksyon ng bike.
I smirked.
"Got you,"
I drove faster. She followed with the same pace. Nakailang ikot ako at hindi siya nawawala sa likuran ko.
I called my father.
"Dad,"
"Zy?"
"I'm being tailed,"
He cursed. "Where are you? Should I-"
"Nah, I could handle this," sagot ko at pumasok na sa eskinita na nakita. The bike followed.
"I'll track you," aniya. "I'll send back up just in case."
Nawala ang signal nang lumusot ako sa eskinita. Naging gano'n ang sitwasyon namin habang nagpapaikot-ikot at lumulusot sa bawat makikita.
The woman in bike didn't let me out her sight. She's skilled in riding, that, I noticed.
But she wasn't attacking so...
I maneuvered the car back to the road, this time, I drove smoothly. It confused her, I guess.
Medyo mas bumilis ang paandar niya para sumubok pantayan ako. I stayed like that, driving coolly for a few minutes before I decided to park at some mall's parking lot.
Dahil gabi na ay wala akong guard na nakita roon. Wala na ring sasakyan.
I paid for parking in the machine and drove. Nilingon ko ang likod, walang nakasunod.
Hmm...
I went out after parking, pretending to tie my shoes until I could hear the faint sound from a bike's engine.
She followed me here. Good.
Naglakad ako ng mabagal habang nagtitipa ng phone. Wala akong narinig na yapak pero ang presensya na papalapit ay ramdam.
Sumingit ako sa mga sasakyan na nakaparada. Just when I felt the presence closer and at my reach, I pulled my gun out immediately then, pushed the woman still in her helmet on the wall.
She stiffened.
"Who the fuck are you?" I asked hardly, my eyes searching at the helmet.
Hindi siya umimik pero nang maramdaman ko ang pagtulak niya sa 'kin ay mas diniin ko siya pabalik sa pader at itinutok ang baril sa dibdib niya.
Her breathing labored. My brows furrowed in confusion.
She felt so fucking familiar. Even smelled the same.
"Who are you?" I repeated, pushing the gun on her chest more.
She raised her one hand. Sinundan ko iyon ng tingin.
Her slender fingers...mas nagsalubong ang kilay ko nang inangat niya ang helmet paalis sa ulo at unti-unting nahulog ang itim na buhok mula roon.
I blinked repeatedly when her face came into the full view, my eyes locking gazes with her black ones.
"What the hell, Theia?!"
She grimaced and I was alarmed when she lifted a knife off her waist.
Nanigas ako, hindi na alam bigla ang gagawin. Wala nang pakialam kung ako ang sasasaksakin niya sa gulat.
The gun on her chest remained and when she twisted the knife on her fingers, tinanggap ko na ang katapusan ko. If my end's on her hands then...I guess. It's perfectly fine.
Pero wala akong naramdaman sakit sa katawan. Nawala na ang kutsilyo sa kamay niya at kasabay no'n ay narinig ko ang ungol at ang pagbagsak kung saan.
I twisted my head to see a large man on the floor, lying.
I felt a sudden pressure on my chest and when I looked back, she already got my gun and pointing it on my chest.
Ngumanga lang ako sa kanya.
She rolled her eyes, "hi, honey."
"Hi?" I called, still confused. "How..." ibinababa ko ang tingin sa sariling baril na nasa dibdib na.
"You're in danger, Zy," aniya at tumitig sa 'kin.
"Me?" I asked but then I got distracted when I realized she had a faint bruise on her cheek.
My jaw clenched.
"Who the fuck hurt you?" Inabot ko ang pisngi niya.
She flinched and sighed, "no one. This is not about me! I said you're in danger!"
She pushed the gun more.
"Danger from who?" I asked, "from you?"
"No," umiling siya. "But you are being followed! Kaya sinundan kita-"
I did not care about the gun on my chest, I just cupped her cheek and kissed her lips fully. She gasped. Narinig ko ang pagkakahulog ng baril ko sa lapag kasunod ng pag-ikot ng braso niya sa batok ko at pagbalik ng halik sa akin.
I sighed on her lips, cupping her jaw to seek entrance and once she accepted, I sucked her tongue and kissed her desperately.
"I missed you, hun," bulong ko at sinapo ang pisngi niya. "I missed you, I'm sorry."
Her chest was still moving up and down, catching for her breath. Her brave, drunk eyes stared at me.
"Zion..."
"Sorry," I searched for her gaze. "Did I make you uncomfortable? Sorry, honey. I was selfish. I didn't think it'll make you uncomfortable if I ask you that way. Sorry, I know you're mad. Y-you can punch me or hurt me, please. I'm sorry."
Umawang ang labi niya.
"Zion..."
"I..." I tried finding words to explain, I rehearsed this in my head for days! "I just want to ask you to be my girlfriend but if you aren't ready, I can wait. Kung may...iba, it hurts but I would be willing to take a step back-"
"Zion," she called.
"But if wala, sana wala, baka p'wedeng isa pa? I promise, I promise I won't fucked up! Kung ayaw mo munang makilala ang mga pinsan ko at pamilya, okay lang. I promise we'll be lowkey! 'Di ko ipagkakalat na akin ka. I won't ran my mouth like that again-"
"Zion Schauffer..."
"I'll do anything, honey, please?" I pleaded, desperately. "I missed you so much, I..."
My eyes fell down on our feet and without a blink, I lowered my body and knelt.
She gasped.
"Zion!"
"Theia, please," I begged. "I'll be a good boy, I promise. J-just give me a chance, please? I love you so much."
She was frozen.
"Tumayo ka n-nga," her voice trembled.
"No..."
"Tumayo ka," she said softly, "please, honey."
The gentleness of her voice made me follow and as she cupped my cheek, even in my large frame, I felt like a small boy.
"B-bakit ka umiiyak?" Bulong niya at may pinunasan sa pisngi ko.
I blinked, didn't even realized I was already crying.
Umiling ako at iniwas ang mukha, "s-sorry, I'm sorry. 'Di ako nagpapaawa. Promise!"
I harshly dried my cheek but she caught my chin.
"You love me?" She asked.
I nodded.
"H-how so?" She asked, "you don't even know me..."
"I know you," I answered and pulled her hand on my chest. "Here. I know you."
She sighed.
"You don't even k-know me, Zy. How could you?"
"I just know, Theia. Don't question my feelings for you because I know," I answered hardly. "Alam ko kasi puso ko 'to."
Her eyes twinkled, "uh-huh? What if I tell you I want your heart?"
"You don't even have to ask, it's yours to take," bulong ko at dinama ang palad niya sa dibdib ko.
We were in silence for a few moments until I heard her soft sighs.
"You don't even know me. Paano pala kung hindi Theia ang pangalan ko? Won't you even ask how I found out someone is tailing you? Won't you ask how the hell I am carrying a knife and threw it at that asshole behind us?"
My jaw clenched.
"What happens if I ask?"
Her eyes strayed, "I have to leave. You won't see me again."
It was a punch in the gut. Umiling ako at hinanap ang mga mata niya.
"Then, don't," I answered and pressed my forehead with hers. "I won't ask, baby. Promise. I won't, just don't leave."
She looks hesitant.
"I didn't accept your proposal not b-because I'm uncomfortable," bulong niya. "I loved it, anyway. Kahit mukha kang tanga."
I pouted. She smiled.
"I left b-because I don't want them to know we're involved, I shouldn't be in public, Zy. I-It's complicated and I can't explain how exactly and why but...no one should even notice my existence nor should I get involved with anyone else-including you."
My chest tightened.
"Do you love me?" I asked.
She stayed silent.
"My heart's pounding with you around. I f-feel alive and happy, Zy. I-I don't know what love is, I don't even know if my heart's capable of those things other than to pump blood but I know if I have one-it would be yours."
It was more than enough. I nodded and pressed my forehead until our nose are touching.
"It's more than enough for me, hun." I hummed. "Too much, perhaps."
"W-would you promise not to mention this...to anyone?" She asked. "Promise you won't try to do a background check? Promise to keep us a secret?"
It hurts not to be able to go on dates with her freely and introduce her to my family but it's better than nothing.
I nodded.
"L-let me sort things out first, Zy," she whispered. "I promise, we'll be free someday. I would love to meet your perfect family someday."
I chuckled and nodded, slipping my arms on her waist.
"They will love you, baby," I assured.
She nodded, "I'm sure I will love them, too. I hope I could thank them one day for having such amazing man...like you."
Nag-init ang mukha ko, "really?"
Her face crumpled.
"Ayan ka na naman sa kayabangan mo,"
I grinned widely.
"Why am I even shock?" She sighed. "You're not my Zion if you aren't a weirdo."
Lumakas ang tawa ko at paulit-ulit siyang hinalikan.
"I love you, hun," I repeated. "Mahal na mahal na mahal kita..."
She smiled and nodded.
"Every shattered pieces of mine are yours, too."
We kissed again and just as I am nibbling on her neck, we both heard a sound.
Sabay kaming lumingon at nakita ang lalaking patayo na habang hawak ang dibdib na may kutsilyo. We caught him in an attempt to take his gun.
I panicked and looked for mine and we both saw it on the floor. Nagkatinginan kami ni Theia.
Theia suddenly kicked the gun up and I caught it with my hand, took the safety off, faced his direction and shot him straight to the head before he even could.
He fell with a loud thump.
Natahimik kaming dalawa at nagkatinginan.
"No questions," we both mumbled.
"What are we gonna do with that?" She asked and pointed the dead man.
I see it's not her first time. She was just like me. But I didn't ask.
To hell with secrets, I want my woman.
"Let me," I said and took my phone to call for my Dad's team.
Nang matapos ang usapan ay nahuli ko ang tingin ni Theia. I smirked. She pouted and tiptoed, pressing her lips on mine.
"Ang sarap no'ng mga foods na bigay mo," she beamed at me. "Nabusog ako!"
"Good," I smiled, "h'wag kang nagpapagutom, hmm?"
Tumitig ako sa pasa sa pisngi niya pero 'di nagtanong.
"Where's your car?" She asked.
I cocked my head to the other end of the parking lot and moments later, I was following her. Hawak-hawak niya ang kamay ko at hinihila na papalapit sa sasakyan.
When I opened it, she pushed me inside. I watched her with wide eyes as she crawled closer to me.
"H-Hon?"
"Yes," she said then glanced up at me.
My forehead creased, "yes...?"
"I'll be your girlfriend," aniya at ngumiti.
"Really?!" My chest thundered I was in the verge of punching the car when she knelt and pulled my slacks.
Napalunok ako.
"Baby?"
"Take your belts off." She commanded.
Mas namilog ang mata ko.
"H-huh? Why?" I even pretended to not understand.
She rolled her eyes.
"Oh, come on, honey. I missed you, okay? And yeah...your dick."
Naeeskandalong tinakpan ko ang bibig.
"Perv..."
"Ako pa?" Tumawa siya, "ako pa ang bastos? Pero okay! Kung ayaw mo, edi-"
I pulled my belt out, unzipped my slacks and pulled her nape closer to my crotch.
"Suck me, then," I said sharply.
Her eyes gleamed wickedly as she lowered her face, opened her mouth and suck.
"Kuya pangit, bakit ang pangit mo?" I snapped back in reality when I heard that tiny voice ringing in my head.
I focused and shot my brow up at Twinkle riding her mini car.
Ibinaba ko ang nakakaantok na binabasa at kinamot ang kilay, pumapahalumbaba habang pinagmamasdan ang kapatid na kanina pa kinakausap ang sarili, sumisigaw at kumakanta.
I really sucked at being boss. Mas gusto ko iyong saksakan at patayan lang.
I'm not a Director material. How could my wife do this all for me before? Ang batugan ko ba talaga?
"Uy, pangit!" She called again and stopped moving her feet to try and pretend she's moving the car.
"Why, princess?" I asked.
"Kuya pangit, bakit ang pangit mo?" She repeated.
"Ha?" I asked.
"Sabi ko-"
"Hatdog," I smirked.
She screamed then stood from her mini car. Ngumisi ako habang pinapanuod siyang nagdadabog papunta sa akin.
Her tiny feet are bouncing with her hair. Maliit ang bawat hakbang at parang laruang naglalakad papunta sa 'kin kaya ngumisi ako.
"Bagal mo naman, sira na ba battery mo?"
She squealed and ran. Lumakas ang tawa ko nang tinanggal niya ang shades niya at pinagpapalo ang hita ko.
"Pangit! Pangit!" She chanted and smacked me, "aagaw mo lumpia ko kanina! I said two! Bigyan mo ako ng one and kalahati!"
Mas lumakas ang tawa ko at tinanggap ang pamamalo niya. I deserved it, anyway.
Kinain ko kasi 'yong lumpia niya, nakalimutang gusto niya daw ng dalawa. Nakagatan ko na 'yong isa bago ko naalala, nahuli niya ako kaya 'di na matigil kakakanta niya ng original composition daw niya: Ako ay may Lumpia
She even showed us last time, her singing with her original song in her mini piano with the new lyrics in the tone of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.
Mamatay-matay ang asawa ko kakatawa. Sumimangot lang ako.
My girls loved making fun of me. S'werte nila at mahal na mahal ko sila.
"Sorry, princess," I caught her and kissed her cheek, "mad ka pa rin kay Kuya?"
"Hmp!" She folded her arms when I seated her on my lap. "Give mo 'ko ng new toy with spy make up kit!"
My brow shot up, "may new toy kang gusto?"
She nodded at me, "opo! Tapos po may powder siya kapag iihip ko..." she blew in the air, "makikita natin po ang laser!"
I smiled. I can already see the stress my Dad would feel.
She will probably grow up like us. I'm proud and yet, at the same time, terrified. Pero for sure, kung stress na 'ko, mas stress si Daddy Pogi at anak niya 'to.
If I was her father and I found out she wanted to become an agent someday, baka atakhin ako sa puso. Kailangan ko na atang ipaiwas si Dad sa pagkain ng matataba para mabawasan ang risk ng heart attack.
"Tapos kapag bibili mo 'yon, iihip ako ng powder po tapos makikita ang laser and hindi tayo mahahati sa gitna po ng body natin tapos lalabas ang mga intestines!"
I made a face. I used to see that but coming from my sister's mouth...
"Princess, saan mo naman nakuha 'yan?"
"Sa movie!" She said, "tatalas po ang laser kaya lalabas ang bituka...eww! Dapat palagi ikaw dadala ng alcohol and princess cologne kasi yuck 'yon!"
I smiled, "yeah?"
"Opo! 'Di mo kasi alam po kasi 'di ikaw agent! Ako agent ako! Kami ni Ate ko! Magaling!"
She bounced out of my lap and I watched her in fascination as she stood in front of me.
"Kapag kita na natin ang laser, dapat mag-acrobat lang like ballerina princess!" She then twirled and even tried bending on the floor like an acrobat mixing with ballerina moves.
Sibyl.
She got it from her, I guess.
Ang ending, gumulong siya sa carpet na parang burrito. If that's her moves during the laser, mate-tegi talaga siya n'yan.
I smirked. She caught me.
"Bakit ikaw tatawa? May funny ba?"
Nawala ang ngiti ko.
I raised my hand, "nothing, princess. Ang galing mo lang mag-acrobatics! Paano nga 'yon? Paturo ako para marunong si Kuya! Para 'di lalabas ang intestines ko!"
She beamed.
"Okay! Tuturo ka ni Teacher Twinkle Princess Spy Ballerina Cutie!"
Muntik na akong mabulunan ng laway sa narinig pero naalala kong kapatid ko nga pala ito. Ganito ata siguro talaga kapag kapamilya mo si Zeijan Ruais.
And so, I abandoned my long due files and joined my princess on the floor where we rolled on the carpet.
Mukha akong tanga. Pero para sa prinsesa...
After ten minutes of her tutorial, nawalan na siya ng paki sa akin kaya nang kumalikot naman siya sa laruang palasyo niya ay bagsak ako sa lapag at humihingal.
Meow-meow purred and laid beside me. Hinaplos ko siya at inilapag sa dibdib ko.
"Buti 'di ka napapagod d'yan?" I whispered to the kitten, referring to my sister busy pretending to fix her face with powders.
"Nakakakain ata ng chocolates," I said again and watched Twinkle posing in the mirror.
She was adorable. I love her so much but she was restless at times.
Her pediatrician informed us before she had ADHD, explaining her short attention span and hyperactivity. She will only be quiet kapag iniharap mo sa horror movie o kaya ang lumpia niya. She will only listen and take the commands seriously if it is from Mom, Sib or her Ate Tish.
Kapag kaming mga lalaki? Mapapagod ka talaga kakahabol sa kanya. Nirayuma na nga ata si Daddy Pogi no'ng huling kinuha niya si Twinkle.
Pagbalik ko para kunin ang kapatid, nakatulala na siya habang kinukulayan ni Twinkle ang kuko niya.
It doesn't really matter, we loved her with all of our heart. Masaya talaga kami na nailigtas siya ni Dad noon. Now that we got her in the family, I can't imagine her without.
She's my sister in my heart. My bloodline. My princess.
"Baby," I called.
She glanced my way from battling her eyebrows.
"Let's go see Ate?"
She beamed happily and nodded excitedly kaya binuhat ko siya at pinaupo sa tapat ng dresser niya.
"Ano gusto mong suotin, princess?" I asked and she pointed her new clothes-gifted from Ate Crest at inayusan ko siya bago pasuotan ng damit.
It was an all pink terno. A kid's version of the usual adult one.
White collared top, pink soft blazer and shorts. May pink necktie pang maliit. Isinuot ko sa kapatid ang paborito niyang umiilaw na sapatos bago inipit ang buhok sa pigtails.
I gave her the shades.
"There, may kulang pa, mahal?" I asked.
She posed in the mirror then suddenly ran to her Barbie bag pack to rummage something. Sinundan ko siya at may ipinakita siya sa 'king box kaya inabot ko 'yon.
"What's this?"
"Candy bracelet!" She answered, took the box from my hand and opened it.
Inside were floral shaped candies in variety of colors. Kinuha niya 'yon at nilusot sa kamay niya.
"Sunny's gift!" She beamed.
"Oh...is it a real candy? Like candy?"
She nodded and bite on one from her wrist. Nginuya niya 'yon.
She offered me with one, "bite ikaw!"
I took one and gasped when it was in fact, a candy.
"Sarap?" She asked. I nodded.
"Pahingi pang isa," I said and she offered me her wrist again. Kumagat akong tatlo sabay tayo.
Her jaw dropped.
"O-Oh my...pangit ikaw talaga!" She screamed and ran after me.
I was laughing, sprinting to get away when the guest room's door opened and I collided with my wife.
Her bright amber eyes widened upon seeing me and before she could fall, I caught her waist and pulled her close to me. She slammed on my chest.
I smiled at her.
"Hi, honey,"
"Bakit kayo tumatakbo?"
"Si pangit kasi!" Twinkle's voice roared and that's when I remembered why I am running away.
Tumakbo ako at nagtago sa likod ni Tish, ginagawa siyang shield.
"What's..."
"Ate! Kakain ni pangit ang candy bracelet ko!" She exclaimed and when she started crying, nahulog na ang panga ko.
Napagalitan tuloy ako ni boss. She was carrying Twila and I was seated in the sofa, pinapagalitan.
Twinkle was sobbing. Kumapit siya sa batok ni Tish.
"Tatlo lang, eh-"
My wife glared at me, kinagat ko ang dila.
"What will you say?" Bumaling siya sa 'kin.
"Sorry, princess," I apologized, sumilip si Twinkle at matalim ang tingin.
My lips protruded, "sorry na, bilhan kitang maraming-marami! Ilan ba gusto mo?"
"Ayaw ko ng bili-I want ten box!" She hissed.
Natawa ako. Sabay na tumalim ang tingin sa akin ng dalawa. Natahimik tuloy ako.
"Alright, ten boxes for my princess," I gave up.
She rolled her eyes and went back to burying her face at Tish's neck.
Inilingan ako ng asawa.
"Isip-bata ka ba?" She asked me.
I shook my head and smiled, "hindi naman, misis. Pero iniisip ko gumawa ng bata-"
She kicked me. I yelped and laughed.
"I love you," I grinned.
"Fix yourself, we're leaving." Rolling her eyes, hinarap niya ang house help para may sabihin kaya tumalikod siya sa 'kin.
Tumapat sa p'westo ko si Twinkle na sumisinghot pa. Nang magtagpo ang tingin namin ay biglang nagbago ang itsura niya at bumelat sa 'kin.
My mouth parted.
She lifted her hand to show me a letter "L" with her fingers, still sticking her tongue tauntingly.
Lumunok ako.
"Misis, oh! Si Twila..." sumbong ko.
When she glanced at Twinkle, her expressions changed and sniffed again.
"A-away ako ni pangit, Ate. Huhuhu!" She faked crying.
Sinimangutan ako ni Tish. Ako na naman ang api! Sana pala inubos ko na 'yong candy sa bracelet niya!
We left the house to go to DEA's office today. Kasama ko ang dalawa. My wife has been anxious and silent since it will be her first time going there again.
However, mukhang marami atang tao. I think Dad invited Mr. President for today's meeting kaya doble-doble ang security.
Hindi na kami pumasok sa parking lot at sa may tapat na lang ng building sa kabilang kalsada kami nag-park. Lumabas ako at inalalayan ang dalawa papunta sa may silong.
It's suddenly raining.
I carried Twinkle. Ang jacket na suot ko ay ipinatong ko sa ulo ng asawa.
She glanced my way and touched the jacket.
"Why? Paano ka?" She asked worriedly.
I smiled coolly.
"Okay lang, misis, may payong ako." Sabay buklat ko ng payong at takbo sa ulanan kasama si Twinkle. My sister giggled. My wife cursed my name.
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